Week 2 done!
No major updates this week! 🎉
I’m officially 10 treatments down, 20 to go. So far, I haven’t noticed any major side effects, which I’m incredibly grateful for. That said, I’ve been told this next week is when things could start to change, so let’s all keep our fingers crossed that the fatigue doesn’t decide to completely take over my life.
On Thursday, I had my appointment with the neuropsychologist, Dr. Baughman at Semmes Murphy. Thankfully, he decided I didn’t need the cognitive testing, so my three-hour appointment was cut in half. I’ll happily take that win!
Based on everything we’ve talked about, he feels the cognitive issues I’m experiencing are a combination of sleep deprivation and normal brain surgery recovery—not anything outside the range of what he’d expect. His recommendations were to get a sleep study and start working with a therapist who specializes in CBT-I (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia).
Which brings me to a quick rant about our healthcare/insurance system…
A specialist referred me to another specialist…who then told me he can’t refer me to any more specialists. Apparently, I have to go back to my primary care doctor for those referrals.
…HUH?! 🤨
It makes absolutely no sense to me, but I’ll play the game because I really, really need some quality sleep.
He also recommended that I continue the supplements I’ve been taking rather than starting prescription sleep medications. And he gave me a little homework: I need to prioritize 20–30 minutes of exercise every day. Otherwise…more physical therapy.
Hard pass. 😅
So daily exercise is officially happening.
I’d honestly love to get back to walking around the neighborhood like I was doing this time last year. But between my leg occasionally deciding to misbehave when I get overly fatigued and my newfound intolerance to Memphis summer heat, I’m thinking a walking pad or treadmill might be the better option for now.
If you have one you absolutely love, I’d love your recommendations! Or if you have one collecting dust that you’re thinking about getting rid of, let me know—I might be interested.
That’s really all I’ve got this week. Nothing especially exciting.
But after all the chaos this year has thrown my way, I’ll happily take boring.
As always, thank you all for continuing to follow along, cheer me on, and support me through all of this.
Here’s hoping next week’s update is just as wonderfully boring.
