Breast Cancer, And The Aftermath.

Not so fun fact - Side effects from chemotherapy in 2017 still effect me in 2026.

Tonight, they happen to have crept up on me and are making me pretty miserable.

Restless leg syndrome. I developed it during the last 4 treatment cycles of Doxorubicin (Adriamycin) commonly know as "the red devil". I vividly remember the treatment day that it was especially bad. My last one!! I was high AF on a benadryl drip and struggled to stay awake and be present with my chemo day guest, my brother, Cam. I couldnt keep my eyes open. I couldn't rest either.

Tonight I came to bed at 10pm. It's now 1:30am. I have dozed in and out. Tossed and turned. Now I'm wide awake. Because my legs won't calm their s**t! Oddly enough, it's typically on a Sunday night. Thankfully, I don't have to be up for work in the morning, as I'm off on medical leave, yet again. This time for heart failure. Another side effect of my cancer days.

I'm not looking for sympathy. (But I will take any and all helpful relief methods for restless legs that you are willing to share!!) I'm just sharing. For many, cancer doesn't end when cancer ends. I often struggle with other side effects. I still get brain fog - "chemo brain" which causes me to forget words or my train of thought. I still get tired quickly - although I think that's more because of heart failure as a result of chemo vs chemo itself. And of course, restless legs. (There's more, but its 130am and my brain is tired!)

I know we all have our demons and struggles. For me, talking and sharing helps. Because it gets others talking. And I know I'm not alone. If you ever wanna talk or share - I'm here!

It's been a long while since I've had a good cry. Tonight my cry was out of pure frustration. And tiredness.

After my cry I walked around and did some stretching. I hope maybe now my legs will let me sleep! I have gardening plans tomorrow morning. (Don't forget to share your Restless Leg relief tips!)