Monday, August 14, 2017

Let the Battle Begin!

I have cancer.  I have said or typed those three words to family and friends several times since my diagnosis.  But today I will say those three words no more!  Today I begin "the Battle" and instead of my message being "I have cancer" my new stance is "I am fighting cancer".

Things I am:  
  • Positive.  Yes, I have cried (sometimes a very "ugly cry" and sometimes not:) but for the most part I have focused on the positive.
  • A fighter.  I am a strong person and I am determined to beat this!!
  • Lucky.  While I do have some pretty crappy luck some of the time (#blackcloud), I really am lucky to live where I do (in an area where health care is accessible), work where I do (The James has some of the best health care professionals to help in my fight against cancer), and have the family and friends that I have (I can not say "thank you" enough)!!
Things I am not:
  • A talented writer or "blogger".

This blog has two purposes.  The first is to provide me an outlet to express myself during probably the most challenging time in my life.  The second is to allow my family and friends to take part in my journey if they would like.

P.S. you might be asking yourself about the title of my blog - "On the Other Side".  The meaning is two fold.  It reflects the fact that I am indeed now "on the other side" when it come to being a patient.  I am no longer the pharmacist, a member of the health care team, caring for cancer patients.  I am now the patient that is being cared for.  It also symbolizes the journey I have started to be "on the other side" of this battle!!
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8 comments:

  1. ACAugust 14, 2017 at 9:34 AM

    Such powerful words from a courageous woman! We are pulling for you and know you will kick this cancer to the curb! The James is top notch (as you know) and couldn't have a better person as a patient. You got this lady-with the full force of family support right alongside you as you embark on this challenging journey ahead. Hugs, lots of love and positive vibes being sent through these channels to you! ❤️

    Andrea, Justin and Meghan Compton

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  2. UnknownAugust 14, 2017 at 9:55 AM

    You've got this - and we're all behind you for anything you need <3

    Rachael

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  3. The McIntyre FamilyAugust 14, 2017 at 9:55 AM

    I know I will be following your journey and I am so thankful that you chose to include us using a blog! You are a fighter, you are strong and you will battle this cancer with an ARMY of loved ones by your side (and some guardian angels too)! Sending all of our love, prayers and positive vibes to help arm you! We love you! <3 Kelly, Mark and Marley Hope

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  4. MommaAugust 14, 2017 at 9:58 AM

    I'm coming over to "the other side" with you!! Love Mom

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  5. PatriceAugust 14, 2017 at 10:20 AM

    I watched you take on the University of Maryland Pharmacy School and I will follow your journey as well. I am grateful that you thought enough of me to include me in your blog. Whatever you need from me I will try my best to help and assist in any way. Hugs from me to you. Patrice

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  6. UnknownAugust 14, 2017 at 10:57 AM

    Jaimee I can't imagine all the emotions going on with this news. I know you are a fighter and an incredible person. You have all of my love and support you know you always have family here at SOP.

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  7. TerriAugust 16, 2017 at 5:14 PM

    Just let me say it is very kind of you to share your experiences of this journey with others. It shows a side that only loved ones tend to become witness to. As a loved one of yours and many others stricken with this disease I can honestly say it is hard to be on the sidelines. We watch and wait and throw our love and support towards our loved ones never quite feeling comfortable if we are doing enough or saying enough or showing enough support. All illness and disease is a mind $@(! for all involved. Yes, we are not the ones diagnosed but we deeply deeply care for you! So there is a big part of us that symbolically feels your pain and suffering. We just want to take it from you. I am only saying this because it is usually unspoken. And yes some would say that life goes on for us sideliners as usual. But that is not true. We just don't outwardly show our pain and heartache as to not hinder the fighting ones progress. So even on those days that you think no one is thinking or praying for you, just know we will always be in the background supporting and helping you along the way.

    So you fight hard...Those of us on your sidelines will always be here to do whatever you need us to do--ALWAYS.
    Love you-Terri

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  8. JaimeeAugust 30, 2017 at 10:52 PM

    Thank you all for the comments, positive vibes, thoughts, prayers, and support!!! I have the best family and friends!!!

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