At times during your breast cancer journey, you look at what is going on around you and wonder why your friends and family are going on with the business of life. Your life as you know it has come to a halt. Those around you are having birthday parties, going to work, going on vacation, and living life as usual. It doesn't make any sense. Feelings of injustice and unfairness begin to take over. You can't understand why your life is not going on as usual. It all doesn't make any sense as you continue to question and try to understand why it feels that you are not fitting in with the world.

You ask, do I go on as usual and pretend that having breast cancer is just an added nuisance in my life? Do I put on a happy face for others to make things comfortable for friends and family? How do I fit in with my old life? The answer to these questions lies with you. What you should do for yourself while undergoing breast cancer treatment is your choice. Whatever your choices, it is important to realize that you come first. This may be the first time in your life that you will put yourself first. Women are often the caretakers in the family, the nurturer, and the relationship builders in life. Now, your role must change in order to balance your energy, health, and mental well-being during breast cancer treatment. This is a trial and error approach that is different for each individual. For some women, it may be going on with everyday responsibilities along with your cancer treatments, allowing that sense of “normalcy.” For other women, breast cancer treatment makes you question your everyday life and gives you permission to do only those things that work for you. The reality is that the people around you will have to respect what works for you. You may have to help them understand your feelings and in some instances it may not be worth the effort. Breast cancer treatment is at least a six-month to a year commitment and you need all your energy to optimize your health during this time.