9 Comments

I know, in a different way, the frustration of wanting your mind and body to work as normal when your body is dealing with recovering from surgery or other medical challenges. I hope you are gentle with yourself as you recover and get through your treatment.

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I used to be a composer. I hope to be one again. A heart transplant 2 1/2 years ago, and the brutal drugs required to keep me from rejecting the new heart, have taken something resembling the toll you describe in your wonderful article. Maybe I can compose a little tone poem about my murder meds. Here's to meeting on the other side!

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Hey Soraya,

I feel you. As another always working high achiever who has been forced to slow down by breast cancer. I understand you frustration. Also NOBODY give you the real skinny on chemotherapy side effects. I'm so glad you are being honest. There are very few people I discuss my weird and embarrassing infections (buttock cysts, mouth thrush, diarrhoea, flayed palms and soles) with.

I try to make my peace with what can actually get done but my eye twitches when I think about how much I have to do and how slow I am. I am so glad I started meditating about a year before my diagnosis. It really helps.

I wish you good recovery and making peace with what your body can no longer deliver in the timeframe that your mind wants. It is a real struggle.

Best, Julia x

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Thank you for sharing this. I wish you strength to conquer this wretched disease. And holding space for joy when we can celebrate your full recovery inshaAllah. ❤

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You did triathlons???! It’s so hard for high achieving people to pump the breaks. ❤️

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Thank you for your candor and bravery in sharing your journey and struggles with such an open heart. The world of culture will be ready for you when you've healed. Until then, I wish you patience, kindness, and peace.

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Soraya-- Feeling you sis. I've had two kidney transplants and spent 5 years on dialysis. My last transplant was in 2009 and I'm still dealing with the impact these "occurrences" have had on my life, body, career, etc. Offering you my understanding.

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Thank you for your vulnerability (and for the reminder of The Paper Bag Princess).

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I feel for you and empathize to the fullest. I’m navigating life after a stroke so I’m constantly dealing with brain fog, forgetfulness and days of wallowing in anger, despair and even a dose of self pity. I offer to you and myself grace and love as we attempt to work out our new life changes. 🥰

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