Tuesday, October 19, 2010

memories

101910


Chemo Brain is real.  Some people aren't affected by it all, while others suffer to varying degrees.  My brain still isn't the same.  Memories want to fly away on the breeze rather than plant themselves.  I get very frustrated, and embarrassed, by my forgetfulness.  I find myself avoiding people or situations, rather than having to confess that I don't remember this or that.  And my husband often says, "Don't you remember. . .?"  No, no I don't and I am more frustrated than anyone else by the situation.

~ You can see the explanation behind this project by going here or see the all posts in this category by going here.

The American Cancer Society has an article that explains Chemo Brain if you're unfamiliar with it.

13 comments:

  1. Yep, I don't always remember either. That is why I try and write in a journal. At least that way, I can go back and read about it and remember it better. I love this picture. It is amazing!

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  2. Important for everybody around to know as it explains a lot. Your photo is perfect to this saying and shows a bit how I feel to. Having bi-polar disease it's (anyway for me) hard to remember as well as keeping focus sometimes and that does not show on the outside either....

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  3. Wow! This photo is so beautiful.
    About your memorie troubles, I can give you a small clue that might help you out without having to admit to everyone you simply can't remember what they are referring to. I have this problem too, caused by my DID (formally known as MPD...yep, I'm a multiple...) and the entrence of ME/CFS in my life, didn't do my memories much good either. So I tend to forget quite a lot and find myself in situations where people are referring to something they must have mentioned before, but hey....no idea what they are talking about. Now here's the point where people's behaviour becomes a handy "tool" for your memory problem: People tend to repeat themselves over and over again. So when they refer to something you don't remember, try not to panic. Just respond with an understanding "uhah..." and some "empty" words and most of the time they go further on their subject and.....repeat the whole story...and that's when you get your update without even letting them know hahaha :D It really works for me most of the times. Sometimes it needs a few common questions to encourage them to repeat their story, like when someone responds in enthousiasm on something they appearantly were about to do....just ask them like "oh yes, how did that go?" You don't only get the answere on that question, but also on the question that bugs you lots more: what are they referring to? :D :D :D
    Hope this helps you a little bit.

    Though it still sucks having this problem as the remaining of an awful period of fighting for your life. I don't know you in person, but I am glad you did survive! You're a big inspiration in many ways and you seem a very nice person!!

    A hug for you,


    Monica

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  4. Well, I really have no advice - but I can send a hug your way! You are such an inspiring person, and you are a fighter and a survivor!! I love the photo - it fits perfectly with your post.

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  5. At least you have an excuse...I do the same thing (and have no reason to forget) LOL I figure it is these small flaws that make us all unique and special! Hang in there! :)

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  6. ::hugs:: and this is why it's so great that you have a blog to remember where you've been and where you're going. What a beautiful photo to illustrate what you're going through. You inspire.

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  7. Isn't that a marvelous picture to depict fuzzy brain? I can't remember anything either but I'm pretty sure it's my {said in a whisper} age!!!

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  8. If it's any consolation to you, I also have this but it's called Old Brain :-) So as soon as you get rid of your Chemo Brain you'll have Old Brain to look forward to. Just to cheer you up...

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  9. PS. What IS that beautiful thing you photographed?

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  10. Such a gorgeous shot, but such a serious, touching subject. I like the way you paired the two.

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  11. The picture is perfect for the topic. My good friend/boss is going through this right now. She is currently having chemo, and has been having different kinds for over a year now. She can't remember how to do some of the simplest tasks in the office. We all try to step in and rescue her when she flounders. It's a difficult time.

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  12. Lisa, this is a perfect photo to describe these feelings. The photo is beautiful...and regardless of your memory, you continue to be beautiful...you still see the moment of beauty in your world around you...you must, you share it here with us. It is extremely frustrating to forget, not recall whatsoever...and for others to think that it frustrates them because we forget. May you find that the days ahead of you will remain as beautiful treasures in your mind to recollect when needed ♥

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  13. Wow. That photo is so perfect for your commentary. I REALLY enjoyed this entry, and will never forget that visual.

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