Oh, come on now.

[Eireann]

I still can't believe this.

First of all, thanks to all those who gave me low-calorie advice. Much to my surprise, in the past two weeks, I have lost a kilo and a half (3.3 pounds).

So I was feeling damned good about that today. Then I got on Facebook.

A relative posted that she has breast cancer.

So I'm sitting here thinking about that, and what it could mean (she doesn't have details yet), and wondering when the hell tragedy is just going to take a detour and skip my family. I have experienced five deaths since the beginning of 2008, and I've had more than enough of it.

I'm also concerned that this will undo the good work of the past few months, and send me back into depression.

Good thoughts appreciated.

[BlaqueKatt]

I'm also concerned that this will undo the good work of the past few months, and send me back into depression.

Or you can use this negative as a positive motivator-to keep doing what you're doing.

available evidence is strong that breast cancer risk can be reduced by avoiding weight gain during adult years, and by limiting alcohol consumption.

There is convincing evidence that physical activity is associated with a reduced risk of cancers of the colon and breast.

[Eireann]

Well, I don't drink alcohol, so that's a plus. So is the fact that I'm losing weight. And doing more walking (I'll do more exercise, not just walking).

[teh_blumchenkinder]

wow! You're doing more than a pound a week! That's excellent progress! Just make sure that's not water weight! Drink drink drink-- water!
Go Eireann!

[Eireann]

Oh, yes, there's a definite change. My jeans are loose, now - around the waist and at the legs. I still have some way to go, but I'm going in the right direction. I'm quaffing down the water, too.

[telecom_goddess]

That's good with the water, I try to drink 2 liters a day minimum. I'm also walking more, not formal exercise but a lot of walking.

[Eireann]

UPDATE

I have more news. The cancer IS treatable, and she's going in for surgery and other treatments. I just hope that this clears everything up, and she'll be okay.

[Jester]

Having cancer does not mean she is automatically terminal. As your latest update shows. Many people have beaten cancer, and there's no reason why your relative should not join their ranks.

Chin up, kid.

[Mikkel]

Many people have beaten cancer, and there's no reason why your relative should not join their ranks.

Chin up, kid.

HawaiianShirts and me, among many others. My neighbour had breast cancer three years ago and she is fine now. The treatments has advanced a lot the last ten years.

[Eireann]

I know this logically - but then emotion comes up and points out that I've lost a lot of people in just a few years. I've been stressed and unhappy, while working on not letting it overwhelm me.