Hello again Friends! I’m writing to you a week out from my third chemotherapy session!
That’s right! I’m now officially HALFWAY DONE!!!! Three down. Three to go!
I was really nervous about my infusion session last Thursday. This was my first time getting my chemo cocktail on a much smaller dose of steroids than I had been given in my two prior treatments.
Steroids help reduce the risk of a reaction to the chemo drugs, but also cause insomnia and swelling, so there was a reward to go along with the risk. Luckily, there were no complications. Whew!
My first chemotherapy treatment was tough. Thankfully, my second treatment went a lot easier and left me feeling like I had a pretty good idea of what to expect as far as side effects go.
Chemo Round 3: Sensory Depression Overload
Does anyone else get that weird feeling of unease when they walk into their dentist’s office? Every dentist office I’ve ever visited has this particular smell that fills me with dread.
I swear the infusion area of my oncology center has this same smell. It makes my gums tingle and my stomach churn.
On my third trip to the oncology center, giant bag of distractions and comfy things in tow, I couldn’t help but notice how oddly routine everything felt.
Since I have to come in really early for my infusion (It’s a big dose), I get first pick of the recliners (Wooooo.). I opt for the one that sits between two windows, but still in a corner so it’s a little more private than the others.
You guys, I hate the infusion room. It’s incredibly challenging to keep a positive state of mind while surrounded by rows and rows of people who are just so incredibly sick. It makes my heart hurt.
And while I get the fact that I’m also sick, I just don’t identify with any of these people. I don’t talk to anyone while I’m there and I feel guilty for it.
Apparently, I’m young for a cancer patient, as I’ve yet to see anyone else my age or younger there. For six hours, I tap away on my laptop as the drugs drip drip drip into my vein to a background of bad pop music and nurses fielding phone calls from patients who are struggling to manage the side effects of their treatments.
It’s getting harder, but I’m getting stronger.
The side effects from Round 3 were harder than Round 2, but I knew to be prepared for that. More nausea. More fatigue. More pain. It took me a little longer to recover as well. Seriously, I have never been so tired in my life.
But after a week, I felt much more like my old self. I was even able to enjoy getting dressed up for Halloween!
It’s challenging to find positives right now, but they’re definitely there when I look for them.
I have a great support system consisting of my husband, friends, and in-laws. I have the self-discipline and ability to eat well and exercise daily, even when I don’t feel like it. I have interests and hobbies to keep me busy and help keep my mind from repeating Cancer Cancer Cancer Cancer on an endless loop.
If nothing else, this whole ordeal has made me realize I’m stronger than I’ve ever given myself credit for, and I’ll never underestimate myself again.
Now it’s time for me to get back to work while I’m feeling pretty good, or at least “in good shape for the shape I’m in”. Being able to create and share with you guys gives me so much energy and joy and I promise to keep it up!
Thanks for all your kind words and thoughts. They mean more to me than I’ll ever be able to express.
Onward!
I just discovered you and am so grateful. What an amazing lady!!! Your exceptional talent and beautiful vibe.
I’ve been following you for what seems like years. I love your creativity. You are truly inspirational. Best wishes and speedy recovery on your health journey. You got this!
I wish you well. May God help you keep strong.
Thanks for sharing how it’s going! Halfway done!! Woohoo!!!! Sending you love and keeping you in my prayers.
Thank you much for your blog. Even though the topic and your experiences and how you speak about them are taboo for a lot of people, I love the way that you try to find the positives in it all. We need to speak of our experiences more often and you are a ray of light in dark times. Thank you again and god bless you. <3
Always relieved to see a new post, it means you are feeling well enough. You mentioned being bothered by the clinic smell, you may want to try calming essential oils like eucalyptus, lavender. A few drops on a hanky may help mask the bad smell, and relax you. Best of luck, from a fan in Vancouver, Canada.
Oh gosh! Yes, I remember so many of those things. I watched episodes of Murder She Wrote to get me through. Jessica Fletcher is one spunky broad!
Ask to go in for extra fluid infusions, if needed. A big help and many people don’t know to ask.
Sending lots of good juju!
Love that wig! You should cut your own hair like that when it grows back.
So glad you were able to get dressed up for Halloween. You look fabulous! I’m lying in bed with my pets and the coronavirus, reading all of your blogs that I’ve missed over the past 4 weeks. I just love reading everything that you write. Inspirational! Glad to see you’re over the hump, too. Wishing you all the best!
Love your blog, now sort of 2 blogs, and am so glad that you are coping well. Hugs and more hugs. x.
So glad that you are over the hump and headed towards the finish line. Sending hugs and prayers from Canada <3 Also you are spot on with the smell. I swear I could smell the chemo the minute I walked into the Cancer Centre each time–worst thing ever. Attitude is a big part of beating this and you have it in abundance! Looking forward to when you are all finished your treatment. We will all do a happy dance!
DEFINITELY! You need to get in touch with her and do this. She’s incredible.
I’m so proud of you, Jillian!
I’m also so happy to read that you have a group of people who support you like they do. It merits you as a person that you have people who love you like that. Having such a connection is an accomplishment in itself!
hugs!
So much love for you!
Greetings Jillian, I have been thinking of you and I was delighted to receive your very positive email tonight. You sound good and you are looking good. It must be hard for you to maintain your momentum but you are surely remaining on top, in great form and I congratulate you. You are inspiring to me. Wishing you well.. You go Girl!!!!
Marathon Man. I refer to that and the drill scene often. Thank you for exposing yourself so bravely. I can only hope to be as fearless as you should I be in the same position. I am the spawn of “the Cancer family Robinson” so have been awaiting my own diagnosis for many years, but thankfully have not received it yet. I revere your moxie, creativity and humor so much; have been an introverted fan for many years. I send you my love and strength.
I love your refashion talent and thanks for sharing your
Life struggles. There are so many of us that need to count our blessings!
Keep on keeping on, your mind is your biggest ally, so don’t let it’s sometimes blind spots waylay you. When it starts on something negative sing this little song, maybe not out loud if you’re out in public, people are not always appreciative of others singing no matter how good they are xXx
Every little cell in my body is happy,
every little cell in my body is well
I’m so glad every little cell
in my body is happy and well.
https://youtu.be/-_2moJgkauM
I just love your indomitable spirit. I have yet to regain anything, but reading your blog I believe I could. I think that is your gift to us, the belief that we can. Annie (corgi mix) and I are sending you much positive energy and prayers, whichever you prefer. My uncle, author of the book Saving Jack about his journey with breast cancer, said the love of family and friends made a huge difference in his ability to survive. I’m glad you have that support system.
Oh Jillian, it’s wonderful to see you looking so well. You may not feel it, though.
Sending you lots of love from Australia.
Good luck with your election too.
Jillian I’m so glad your halfway through!!! Stay positive and know we all are rooting for you! Your an inspiration for so many people and I’m so happy you are doing well! Many blessings your way!
Good to see you are continuing to hang tough and keep a good sense of humor. As you may have learned from your comment section some cancers strike younger people more often than others, the blood cancers and testular are just a few that strike early. A good friend of mine husband developed testular cancer in his early twenties, so you are not alone. Cancer does not care how old you are. I was often the youngest in the room,but there were also other young people on occasion(often with blood cancers like myself).
I do feel people going though cancer for the first time in this time of Covid have it tuff. Being alone during treatment is scary and isolating. I am in chemo for my second time with lymphoma not curable, but treatable. It is a long process always eighteen months of treatment or so and had become a part of life. Grateful for better treatment options and new drugs. How is are the pets? They can bring so much confront and joy during these times. My dog is really good couch and bed buddy all 70lbs lol. Keep swimming and you will each the other side. Sending healing vibes and caring thoughts your way. LOVED THE HALLOWEEN COSTUME.
I can totally relate to your experience in the infusion room. Loving family and friends will get you through this. Praying for you.
You are a blessing.
Halfway there wo ho living on a prayer! Excellent news sweetie. Love to you and Brian. X
Jillian, i found your blog by accident years ago and i love seeing all or your awesome refashions…you are an inspiration in your creativity and now you are an inspiration in how you are fighting cancer…way to go. Sending you big virtual hugs and prayers for strength and healing and that you will keep your incredible attitude through this darkness…
Thank you updating us. You’re close in my thoughts and I’m sending you light and love! Be well
You’re going through so much physically and emotionally and handling it with grace, courage, and humor. Thanks for sharing aspects of this journey on your blog. I’ve always felt like the most important part of life was to help others along the way, and basically to Love one another. You have so much positive energy around you. I’ve done fundraising for the Cancer Support Community which is a phenomenal nationwide organization whose motto is “No one should go through cancer alone.” They have counseling, cooking, art, yoga, exercise classes and more, all free to anyone going thru cancer treatment. I hope you have one or something like it in your area.
I absolutely love your refashionista posts! I’m sorry you have to go through this! When I read your posts about getting through treatment I hope you can feel the positive thoughts going your way. I pray for you to have your health back soon!!
Congrats on your half way point. Keep up your wonderful attitude I have aways enjoyed your blog. You are in God’s hand and you have my praying for healing.
Lori
Sending you love and hugs. You really are an inspiration xx
<3 <3 <3
Sending you good vibes and prayers!
Sending all good thoughts your way. I’ve been a huge fan for a long time. Lots of love from Salem MA.
Congrats on reaching the halfway point of your treatment. I look forward to your updates and am continually amazed by your positive attitude And I got the movie reference right away. Now you know why the dentist has to give me nitro in order to even pry my jaw open.
admire you so much. Felt so bad when you first said you were sick. So happy you are staying positive and moving forward. I tell people about you too. Thank you for being you.
Prayers for your strength and healing!! So glad u r half way through!!! ❤️
You are truly an amazing human. Keeping you in my prayers.
Hi Jillian. Sending you virtual hugs from Canada.
Today I found 2 plus size dresses and I explained to the other ladies how my friend Jillian would alter them. Remove shoulder pads. Do side seams. Shorten. Wear a belt. Etc. We were at a thrift store. Now they have your blog site too and they are eager to follow along. Warm healing thoughts to you and Brian.
You look beautiful! Praying for your healing!
God bless you Jillian. Thinking of you often and praying for peace, joy and complete healing for you.
I admire your strengh and positive attitude. Greetings from Chile
You are an incredible woman. I am a copy and content editor. I think you should write a book and I should edit said book. That’s it. Oh, I say a prayer for you whenever I read your posts. Please keep inspiring us…
Love the high end fortune teller look with that head wrap! So glad to see your post, as I keep you in my prayers every day, and was just hoping all was going well. Just yesterday I was using hand sanitizer in the car, and it gave me the creepiest feeling of unease. Realized that the oncologist I met with during radiation always used it before a conversation. (Sorry if too much info, but my cancer was head and neck and in addition to chemo I had radiation with my head bolted to a board, face covered by a mesh mask. Not good for those of us who get claustrophobia.) Anyway, I think that aversion reaction is so healthy. Like my dogs when they get near the vet clinic. Always empathize with the way they scramble to get out of that place. Stay strong, beautiful girl.
Praying for you.l just love your creations ! They are truly amazing. & so are you.
Sincerely Rodella ☺️
Your Halloween costume looks great!
I’ve been following your refashion adventures for some time. I usually don’t comment much, but I wanted to tell you I think you’re an inspiring, beautiful human being. I’m sending you good vibes! <3
It always makes me so happy to see a post by you. I say your name in every prayer and ask God to touch you with healing hands. This is a year that none of us will forget. I have been through cancer, chemo, covid, more chemo, double mastectomy, and radiation starts in 2 weeks. I should be done before 2021. I hope you sail through the rest of 2020, too. let’s have a miraculous year in 2021.
Jillian, thank you for your update! I have been thinking about you, and sending hugs and good healing energy to you. So glad you are halfway through your chemo.
Jullian,
Sending prayers your way. I too have struggled with the everyday during Covid and it is such a bright spot to hear you are doing ok. It makes me look at my problems as so minor. Keep up the positive thoughts because we are all sending ours your way. Know there are a lot of people you have touched with this blog that are praying you continue to have strength and positivity!
How can you be so crazy clever with your Halloween outfit and makeup? I thought it was perfect!
Who hoo! You can so do it! You are doing it! Also, your Halloween look is spectacular
Thanks for the update. Your spirit is encouraging and I’m grateful for your determination. Prayers for you from Florida.
Sending you love, prayers and hugs!!!
Thanks for sharing. You are a very strong & creative woman. Prayers.
Jillian, So glad you are halfway done with treatment. Keep looking for the positives and taking care of yourself. Glad you are able to squeeze in some fun, too!! ❤️
You are a decent human being, Jillian and sharing your story with us underscores how true to self you are. I think that anyone on this page would do anything to help you, and that includes me. At the present, all I can do is thank you for keeping us updated and sending you prayers, good thoughts much love and healing wishes.
I am 81, everyone I know has had cancer, including one of my twins. After smoking a lot since 15 and a little occasionally, I don’t know why I haven’t had cancer. Your bravery and how damn cute you look, always, is an inspiration. Because, eventually, it must be on my plate.
Relieved to hear from you! Know you are fighting hard. We your “Frans”( friends and fans, borrowed from a clever Fran from ages ago) admire and love you, and send you BIG hug and BIG love.
Our brightest and clever girl! Been having a go at visible mending/darning, its portable.
Best, Best and Love. from Melbourne, Australia. Jillian
Thinking of you and inspired by your indomitable spirit ❤️
Congratulations on the halfway point. You are adorable, hair or no hair, which makes you look BADASS, by the way! I went with my Uncle every week when he had chemo treatments for lung cancer. And again with my Dad. But that was before COVID when they could have someone come with them.
I also hated the set up of the chemo room (and I’m a nurse). The frail elderly patients were so terribly sad. There were a few young ones and they really stood out. We did get to know some of them that were there the same day and time. Hang in there. You will be finished before you know it.
Sending more love and best wishes from Australia. You bring so much joy to so many people. I’ve also followed you for years. Thanks for sharing your life and your cancer journey.
Sending you lots of love and hugs from Australia ❤️
prayers continue for you! you can do this little one, everyone is pulling for you and knowing that you will conquer this tribulation.
And as a side note you look adorable rocking the bandana. Sending you good strong calm thoughts.
Congratulations on reaching the halfway point! I
You are an inspiration. Your positivity is amazing! I wish you well in this cancer journey!
You are such an example to the rest of us. I have NO reason to complain, and you’ve put me in my place. A million hugs to you!!
You are one spunky chick, love your honesty and your courage! Please continue to keep us updated on your progress!
Big ole cyber hugs to ya,
Janice
You can do this! Sending you a virtual hug.
Yes, I recognize Dustin Hoffman and Laurence Olivier and that movie. I also hate the smell in the dentist office!!! You are beautiful and I am sending you lots of positive vibes! Keep fighting. You’ve got this! Keep moving forward.
Prayers for healing!
I know you can do it. You are a strong woman and an inspiration to me and so many otbers.
My heartfelt thoughts are with you and the mister as you work soldier through rough patch. I have followed you for years and your posts delight and inspire me! I have sewn since the age of 10 (that is 57 years ago!) and have enjoyed connecting to you and this community you have created. Thank you and Bless you!
I pray for you every night. “God, please watch over the little ReFashionista girl! Help her to fight this disease!” Hang in there, Kiddo, you have the strength to get through this and we’re all pulling for you even if we’ve never met!
I adore you! As do so many, many people. We are all pulling for your complete recovery. Lots of love from San Diego.♥
As a breast cancer survivor, it was hard to imagine that something that was no bigger than my little fingernail, wreaked that much havoc then and still does today. I NEVER felt sick. I never even felt my lump. If it hadnt been for a mammogram, i would have never known because i never FELT the lump. No one did. None of the Drs or myself. Thank goodness I was due for my mammogram. Treatment is difficult. Recovery is twice as bad. The Drs dont tell you what happens after. They save your life, but you life is FOREVER changed physically. Mentally you recover. Physically, notsomuch
Sending healthy thoughts!
I admire your strength and determination! You’re gonna come out on top! And to hell with the Big C and Pan-Damn-It !
Jillian, I’ve been through it, too. I was diagnosed with Stage 3 Colin Cancer 4 years ago. I was scheduled for 6 infusion treatments, but ended up getting two. I then continued on with oral chemo. I know what you mean about the Infusion Center. Even though I was 70, i was less ill than many and felt for all the people who were just fighting for their lives. I’m glad to say that I’ve been cancer free for 4 1/2 years. They don’t say “cured” but they give me statistics like 95% survival. Just take it a day at a time. I didn’t lose my hair, but I was fatigued the whole 6 months. It’s a mental fight as well as a physical one. They took me off the infusions because of the serious side effects I was having. The oral chemo had less side effects. Hang in there! My oncologist said it will seem like “a bad dream” later on. I love your refashions.. I’m a quilter, but I do alterations, too. Love and prayers!
I think of you throughout each day. You are fighting a tough battle and looking as beautiful as ever. You will survive, young one.
Hang in there, Jillian. I know how difficult this can be, I went through it with my mom for breast/ovarian cancer and breast cancer with my sister. It was so hard to feel helpless but I was there for all there treatments and support. I wish you continued strength and for your husband as well. You got this!
I made some medicated lip balm and found applying it eliminated that smell for me. Now I just put a little menthol under my nose And I can get through my treatment without the nausea inducing sterile smell.
You are an amazing young women. Lots of loving thoughts and prayers are being sent your way.
Sending lots of love ❤️
Sending best wishes and love from Australia. You are amazing!!!
Praying for you! I can relate to the “dental smell horrors,” and it doesn’t take Marathon Man to give me the shivers. I had a frightfully sadistic dentist as a child who invades my nightmares to this day, smell included. Can you suck on mints during your treatments? Peppermint or cinnamon might overwhelm dental funk. Keep smiling, Sweetie! We’re all there with you in spirit!
Sending you love and strength from New Zealand. Kia Kaha, be strong.
Way to go! You are doing this hard thing. Know that you have a legion of fans, including middle-aged me in Maine, rooting for you. And for your refashionista posts! You’ve got this!
Still praying for you Jillian and prayers receive answers. God loves you and is moving in your behalf behind the scenes. He will see you through as you trust Him.
Don’t forget to suck on crystallized ginger (Trader Joe’s) for the nausea at the first sign of it for best results.
Take as much time as you need and want, we will be waiting here for you.
YOU are one amazing human! Your positivity is inspirational!
Three down! Wooooooooooooooooo! You’re doing so well! You are strong, each week I’m impressed by your honesty and that you simply keep going. We’re with you, as always. If you ever need anything, distractions, kind words, treats, virtual hugs, anything, just let us know. We’re here for you!
❤️
Sweetie you are in my thoughts and prayers often. I have followed you for years because you are innovative and thrifty. You are stronger than you realize until you have to meet a challenge you never expected to have to meet. Tough she is but small she be fierce. Stay positive.
Hang in there kiddo. You are doing well and will make it through. You are loved and admired.
You are such a great writer/seamstress/creative soul, Jillian! I have loved reading as much about your health journey as I do seeing you redeem hopeless shirts. I just love your writing and your mind and how well you express that. ❤️
You are an inspiration! I’m a new knitter, and lately have been feeling so frustrated and inadequate about my KNITTING!!! Your journey puts my worries into proper perspective. Heal on! Prayers and good wishes come your way.
I truly love seeing your latest post arrive in my in box. Whether re-fashioning, or health and cancer treatment up-dates, they’re all wonderful to read and your fantastic sense of humour always makes me smile. Keep strong, smiling and sewing – we all love and admire you so much. Sending healing hugs, positive vibes and love from East Sussex in England. Xxx
My husband was diagnosed with leukemia almost 8 years ago. He has had chemo a gazillion times over these years, had violent reactions, and mild reactions. His chemo treatments are ALWAYS 8 hours long to prevent reactions. The infusion room has about a dozen chairs and is always full of patients. I have seen many ages there…..some young, some middle age, and some elderly. They all are fighting for life. I sat with him through years of treatments. You do what you have to do. Now he’s on a daily chemo pill regimen, so he has side effects daily. It’s a way of life. At least you can see an end in sight, with only 3 more treatments. Look on the bright side! I, too, am a cancer survivor, and had radiation treatments. You learn to take one day at a time.
You’ve got this. Even when you feel like shit, there is a light waaay down at the end of the tunnel. I speak from experience. Take care.
From Paris, i send you lots of very good waves !!! Thank you so much for your wonderful posts ! You are so strong !!!! Congratulations and lots of loves !❤️❤️❤️
Sending you love and strength. Thank you so much for continuing to share your story and your beautiful talents! <3
Jillian, my dear, you are an inspiration to us all. Initially it was with your incredible refashionings, but over the years, and especially recently, you’ve inspired us with your positive attitude, your strength, and your grace in facing all your challenges head-on. Oh, and also with your great sense of humour Your thousands of fans worldwide are rooting for you (and praying too ).
Good luck and feel well soon. You’re Halloween dress up was brilliant.
I’m so sorry this round of treatments is harder than the other two. Thank you for explaining it all to us. (Even in this you are teaching us so, so very much.) Your support group sounds wonderful and I’m sure they’ve got your back every step of the way. And you plan! You plan for everything and that’s something else you’re sharing/teaching us–to take charge and not just lie back and be victimized by this experienced.
Bless you dear! You are in my thoughts and prayers.
You are simply incredible! Praying for you and sending you many hugs!
I can’t imagine that room… a life-saving room but a horrible room just the same. I’m glad you had some windows to look out of and I don’t wonder that you really don’t want to talk to anyone. You do for you what you need to do to get thru it. Don’t feel guilty about that… ever! Oh, and by the way… you are rocking that head scarf! Thank you so much for the update and the insight into chemo….
It is amazing how much inner strength we can muster when we have to.
You’re such an inspiration. Love your sewing and thinking of you- hang in there and keep us informed.
You are showing such strength I’m sure you will come out on the other side. Praying for you and always look forward to some more of your fantastic ideas!!
Hello young lady….I have been lax in responding to you but not in praying for you. You are definitely a inspiration to soooooo many people. As long as you can keep up and refashion, I think that is the best therapy..If you ever wish some goodies that arehomemade you just let me know Love you Jillian
I remember when you broke your engagement and that tested your strength. You ended up with a wonderful party dress. Some how I know you will show the beauty in this situation. You already have. Prayers and love.
I believe that I only saw it once, but I’ll always remember the dental terror I experienced while watching “Marathon Man”. I am glad to read that you are able to tolerate each infusion a little better than the last. I hope that you will not have to endure many more treatments beyond the originally-forecast number — was it six?
P.S. Your Halloween attire was perfect.
Thank you for the update. Good and healing thoughts in your direction~!
Dear Jillian, I have been following your blog and refashions for years. I’m so sorry you are going through this! I’m so impressed and inspired you continue to be creative during this difficult time. And please, please don’t feel guilty for not talking to anyone during your treatments! You have to get through it in whatever way works best for you and your health! Sending you strength and a bug hug! Love from Susan in
❤️❤️❤️
I get so happy every time I see a post from you. I literally walked through Goodwill the other day looking for diamonds in the rough to refashion, and kept repeating to myself “What would Jillian do?” Your craftiness and sharp eye inspire me!
Congrats on being halfway through!
I’ve loved keeping up on your blog, and am keeping my fingers crossed that this all continues to go smoothly for you. Thank you so much for all the inspiration!
Showing how to manage a shaved head in a crisis is not an easy thing but you are doing it! Your cute hair cuts and or wigs are doing it. Your never say say never attitude is doing it.
You are helping a lot of people!
I am so so impressed by you and your strength. You give hope to the rest of us.
I never know how to express the amount of joy and inspiration you’ve brought to my craft corner over the years. So I’m just going to send you a get well hug (or two)
Marathon Man with Dustin Hoffman and Laurence Olivier–I remember seeing that movie and getting the heebie jeebies during that scene. Keep up your positive attitude, many love you (even though we’re sort of strangers), and many are praying for you, me included.
Praying for you! Love your Halloween costume!
I have enjoyed your blog and hope you treatment brings about the best of results. Keep your sense of humor. You are truly an inspiration.
You are amazing. This is a very, very challenging time for you, yet you are able to stay positive and encourage all of us. I am so genuinely impressed with your positive spirit. I know that you keep the worst of it to yourself and my heart aches for you. Just keep moving forward. It’s all you can do,
Hi Jillian: thank you for the update, I was beginning to get concerned. Love that the big lesson for you from the third round is that you are stronger than you thought you were. That’s fantastic and will serve you forever! Sending you healing hugs from Canada
You’re all around amazing!! Thank you!!
Everything you are feeling is soooooo normal! I did the same as you. Was the youngest in the room, finding the chair closest to a window, away from the tv and my nose in a project which included making decorations for an event that I was head chair…bound and determined to not miss. You’re half way done, keep pushing through dear Jillian ❤️❤️❤️
you got this!! sending all the positive thoughts and healing energy!
Dear Jillian,
You do you beautifully.
Sending you strength,
Kathy
I know it is hard to stay strong and positive, but we are all praying for you. And though we are not there physically we are there emotionally, especially through prayers.
You’re doing Great!! Keep smiling! Stay positive!
I have so much respect for you!!! I look forward to your updates, and I am sending healing, loving energy
Jillian, you are one hell of a touch chick! With your “plow through it” attitude and your mega watt smile; you are an inspiration to so many. I know that it’s not always easy because there’s nothing easy about what you’re going through as I watched my Mom go through it. She is also one hell of a touch chick but sometimes, it just gets overwhelming. On those day; it’s not selfish to put yourself first; we will rally around you with prayers, good thoughts and powerful vibes! You are our refashion queen, we are your refashion army….girl power!
Been following your story for years now and was saddened by this twist, but your upbeat attitude and down to earth perspective on everything is admirable. You are an inspiration! Love seeing your projects and hearing these positive updates.
Love your ‘story’ and that you are willing to share it. I also love that you are continuing to refashion! You are such an inspiration in so many ways!
I pray for you everyday. When I don’t see an update I pray that much harder. Please hang in there we are all cheering you on!
So proud of you! You are a beautiful human. Halfway done. You’ll get there.
love your quote “good shape for the shape I’m in”. I’m a marathon runner, once you pass the halfway point, you’re heading down the HOME STRETCH, getting closer to the end with every passing moment. You’ve got this!
“I just don’t identify with any of these people.” Right. You are not any of these people. I have felt it since you published your news. No reason to feel guilty.
I am thinking about you, praying for you, and am thankful for you. I am so glad you are still posting!
I think you are absolutely fantastic and I love your blog and your sense of humor. sending lots of love and strength and support and whatever the heck else will get you through this with flying colors. you go girl! your attitude is the perfect one!
So impressed with you!
Thank you for sharing. Glad we can help just by listening. I’m praying for complete wellness.
You are doing a great job of handling this difficult situation with with grace and class. Don’t doubt yourself for a second, you are a strong and beautiful young woman.
Prayers for you! You’re an incredible inspiration, and I find myself lucky to experience you through this blog!
You are as beautiful on the inside as much as your outside beauty. I’m so inspired by you again! I have to say that you are one of the strongest women out there in this crazy world and you are going to kick cancer’s butt! God bless you!!!
Hi Jillian you are so amazing. Love your bright spirit and positive attitude. Can’t wait to see your next project. Prays and love to you and your family.
Sharing your story with us is hugely kind. You never know who your words may reach, now or in the future, and how they may inspire us on our own particular traumas. The gritty details are useful to illuminate this journey and enlighten us about just what this is like. Wishing you continued strength for the journey and thanks for keeping the refashions coming. All the best to you and yours. Greetings from Southern Colorado! Hugs!
I was DX with Ovarian at 25. I had a full hysterectomy and then the chemo started. It was hard as you know. I had a 2 1/2 year old and a newborn. My Mom basically moved in to take care of the kids while I recovered between treatments. I felt weird being young in the treatment room too. But the thing is, like you I fought to stay positive and to live for my children. I’ll be 54 this month. You get through this hiccup and live a long life afterwards. There’s still so much ahead of you. You are in my thoughts as you find your way past the big O. You can do this!
I have not been on your blog in quite a while and I’m just learning that you have cancer. I’m sending loving and healing vibes your way!
Marathon Man! Since I have horrible dental anxiety, that scene terrified me as well. Kudos to you for being able to brighten these weird times for all of us even going through your own struggles. God bless.
Stay strong!! Thank you for sharing your journey.
May you make it thru without too much more awfulness. You are loved, you are important, you are necessary. You Jillian are an incredible person. Wishing you ease and strength to get thru.
Half way to better things on the other side of all this. Onwards & upwards.
Identify with yourself. That’s all you can do right now. Your cancer and your recovery are unique. I love the idea of windows with the recliner! That’s a tiny silver lining.
Thank you for continuing to share with us! You remain in my thoughts and prayers
I love your Halloween costume
Having compassion for others in your situation is beautiful. You are such a strong lady and I so enjoy your perky posts! Your outlook going through this experience is an inspiration to me for my own tough issues. Thank you for being who you are and showing that even at the hardest of times we can still see light.
You inspire me, Jillian. I continue to send light to you. Kathy
So glad you are doing well… and on the off chance that you are not, you know you can share that with us as well, right? You don’t have to be happy for us. <3
Praying for you and I hope you truly are doing as well as you sound
Stay positive, I think you’re amazing for how you are handling everything being thrown at you. Sending love from the UK xx
I got the reference!
I am a total stranger to you, but you feel like family to me, because I’ve read your blog for years. Thank you so much for letting me inside your life. And I will be right here with you – invisible, but reading every word – every step of the way.
You are such an amazing person. I can’t tell you how much inspiration you’ve brought to me. My blessings to you. Stay strong.
You are in my prayers dear Jillian. I am proud of how strong you are.
I’ve had the third of eight infusions for a different medical problem. I, too, am surprised how I just hop in the chair and stick out my hand to be poked again like its part of normal life now. I keep counting the number of infusions and know that it’s doing it’s job. You’ve got this! Your attitude has helped my attitude so much!!
You go!! Keep up the positivity and strength! Great job!!!!
I think you’re amazing, I think of you and pray you! Carry on!❤️
Sending all good things your way. I have had some challenges lately and your words remind me to look for the bright spots. Keep kicking @$$ and taking names <3