While cancer is extremely painful and can lead to a painful death, during chemotherapy, patients are given everything possible to make the experience more comfortable. Before the chemo sessions, I received four infusions, including a steroid to ensure a few good days before energy levels dropped. I also received an infusion of Benadryl, which prevented vomiting, a common symptom of chemo. While I don’t remember the other two infusions, I know they helped me avoid pain. The only negative side effect was thrush in my mouth and down my throat, which made swallowing difficult and altered my sense of taste. Radiation and chemo are both cumulative, which means that with each session, you become weaker and more sensitive to radiation. By the end of my 6+ weeks of radiation, my skin was falling off, and I spent a week in the hospital with burns. While these experiences were difficult, they were nothing compared to the pain of dying from cancer. I was weak, unable to eat my favorite foods, and had burns to deal with, but I am alive now. I can watch my grandchildren grow up, spend time with my elderly mother, and travel with friends. Life is great, so don’t be afraid. Get the chemo and stay positive.