Where we end up on this journey varies. For some, treatment and adaptations continue for a lifetime. For others, surgeries and treatment come to an end. Some people return to their lives without a bump, but most are forever changed.

Understanding the impact of what we’ve experienced, adjusting to changes, regaining footing, and recognizing unexpected gifts that may have arisen from the experience are all a part of moving on. As we wiggle against the changes that have occurred, many around us say we just need to adjust to the “new normal” of our lives. But, for many of us, post-treatment life is anything but normal. It is acknowledging the lack of normalcy that allows us to adjust and regain our footing in order to move on.

Cindy’s Journey  You’ll Feel Better in the Morning

As I think back to my adolescent years, I feel lucky. My memories reflect a happy time in my life. Oh, there were times of adolescent angst when I was upset and life seemed out-of-kilter, but I have no recollection of what happened to evoke such reactions. I do remember, though, that I sought my mother’s advice. Her guidance was direct and simple. “Get a good night’s sleep. You’ll feel better in the morning.”

Her suggestion led to immediate frustration in my teenager’s brain. Go to bed? It’ll be better in the morning? Humph. Just get a good night’s sleep and wake up? That wasn’t the advice I sought — but as the tears stopped falling, I fell asleep, only to awake the next morning learning my mother was right again. Life did seem better.

Now that my treatment is over, I hope the same will prove true — that I’ll wake up and I’ll feel better. However, as the weeks turn into months, my life still doesn’t feel right. My days continue to twist and turn with experiences and adjustments. Once again, I seek advice from those around me. Some say I will find a “new normal.” Others promise my day-to-day life will regain rhythm and shape.

Deep within, I once again hear my mother’s voice. “You’ll feel better in the morning.” But this time, it is taking more time for the sun to rise.