Chemo and Arthritis

Since finishing chemotherapy almost a year ago, I have been experiencing arthritis type pain in my joints. It has effected my feet, ankles, knees, fingers, wrists, and elbows. The pain is always there in some part of my body. I have seen a rheumatologist and there's not much they can do for me. It is not a true arthritis, but actually arthralgia because I don't have any inflammation. I have tried many NSAI for the pain, however they give me acid reflux. I have found that Tylenol Arthritis works the best.

I used to be a very active, athletic middle age woman before my cancer. There are many things that I have had to give up because of either the arthritis or lack of strength. I used to play the piano, play tennis, ride bike, and participate in other activities. Today, my husband took our daughter to an indoor rock climbing place. I didn't have the strength or flexibility to climb or balay. I opted to be the official photographer.

However, despite the pain and discomfort, I am alive. There are many things that I can't do any more, but there are lots of things I CAN do. For instance, I can't play the piano any more, but I am directing a handbell choir now. I can't play tennis, but I am walking. I gave u some of my sports, but I am spending more time writing. There's the old cliche, that when God closes a door, He opens another window. My windows, at times are fogged up and I can't see through them. But I know that I am in His care and He has a plan for me. I need to rely on Him to help me see the things that I can do, and not on the things that I can't do.
He is in control.