Author: tammyg
Life Is Too Short, But Apparently Doctor Waitlists Are Not

Life Is Too Short, But Apparently Doctor Waitlists Are Not

By | | Comments 0 Comment

There is nothing quite like a major health scare to make you look around at your life and say, “Well, shit. Time to renovate my life!”

Not a cute little HGTV refresh with throw pillows and a new lamp either. I’m talking full emotional demolition. Walls down. Floors ripped up. Dust everywhere. The kind where you stand in the middle of your own life wearing safety goggles thinking, “How did I get here, and why is there so much beige? Yuck!”… And I think I may have been watching too many redecorating shows lately!

A big health scare wakes you up in a way nothing else can. It grabs you by the shoulders and reminds you that life is not some endless buffet where you can casually circle back later for joy, peace, adventure, or rest. Life is short. Annoyingly short. Rude, actually…if I am being honest!

And suddenly, things that used to feel important start looking ridiculous.

The people-pleasing.
The waiting.
The shrinking or apologizing.
The “I’ll do it when things calm down.”
The pretending I am fine when my nervous system is basically a raccoon trapped in a mailbox.

Trust me, a health scare makes you want to live differently. Not someday. Not when the stars align, or Mercury behaves itself. Now.

So here I am…I wanted to move. Change. Breathe. Choose myself. Find sunshine. Take a class. Be near my Heart children. Learn something new. Wear the thing. Say no without feeling guilty. Say yes to the parts of life that make me feel awake again.

For me, that meant looking at my life with sharper eyes and a softer heart. It meant asking, “What actually matters now?” Not in a dramatic movie-trailer voice, although honestly, sometimes it felt that way. It meant admitting that after everything my body had carried me through, I owed it more than survival mode.

So, I made changes.

And like most big changes, they came with fear, tears, excitement, chaos, and a few moments where I questioned whether I had accidentally joined a cult run by packing boxes.

Moving somewhere new can be incredible. It can feel like a fresh page. New streets. New routines. New coffee shops. New skies. New possibilities.

But here is the caveat nobody puts on the inspirational poster: starting over is not always light and breezy when you have a medical history that likes to sit in the corner wearing tap shoes just waiting for its turn to jump on stage.

Because when you have lived through a serious diagnosis like breast cancer, access to healthcare is not just a practical detail. It is emotional security. It is the thing that lets you exhale.

And when you move somewhere new and suddenly cannot find a doctor, that fear gets loud real fast!

Not cute loud. Not “my dog is so cute barking at a leaf” loud. I am talking about 3 a.m. brain loud. And often! The thoughts are endless…

What if something comes back?

What if I miss a symptom?

Who do I call?

Who is watching my medical dashboard while I’m trying to drive this life?

Thank God I moved in next to a hospital!

But would they see me or know what to do if I had an emergency?

Is this an emergency right now that I don’t have a Doctor?

That fear is real.

It is not dramatic.

It is not overreacting.

It is what happens when my body has already surprised me once, and now I am trying to trust it again while also navigating a healthcare system that feels like trying to get concert tickets to my favorite artist while using dial-up internet.

All I do know is that in this moment:

I can be grateful to be alive and still be scared.
I can be brave and still need support.
I can want a new life and still feel deeply unsettled by the gaps in care.

That is the weird, messy, human truth of it.

A health scare can make you want to chase life with both hands. But healing also means needing safety. It means wanting freedom, but also follow-up appointments. It means dreaming about new beginnings while quietly wondering who will help you if your body sends up a flare.

And maybe that is the real lesson.

Life is too short to stay stuck. But it is also too precious to pretend we do not care about the  systems that helps us!

So yes, I still want change. I want joy. I want movement. I want laughter that sneaks up and makes me forget what I was worried about for a second. I want to keep building a life that feels like mine full of adventure.

But I also want a doctor. Let’s not get too carried away here! I NEED a freakin’ Doctor!

Because this next chapter is not about pretending fear does not exist. It is about letting fear ride in the back seat while my hopes and dreams take the wheel, my sassy self controls the playlist, and I keep moving forward anyway.

One imperfect, brave, slightly ridiculous step at a time.
I Survived Cancer… So Why Am I Afraid to Go on Vacation?

I Survived Cancer… So Why Am I Afraid to Go on Vacation?

By | | Comments 0 Comment

Let’s plan a vacation!

The sun, the sea, the cuisine, the rest & relaxation!

That is what most people hear when someone says vacation.  That is what I used to hear too!

Until breast cancer…

Let’s plan a vacation!

Okay but where is the nearest hospital? What SPF of sunscreen do I need to pack? Will food poisoning make me think I have cancer again? Is there such a thing as rest and relaxation? I relax better in my home, in my province, where I know the medical doctors are! Oh and how do I get travel insurance?

Yup…racing thoughts now take over and I am more anxious than ever. You hear about people who go on vacation and are perfectly healthy and then the worst thing possible happens.  Well, when you have health issues to begin with (even when considered in remission) it becomes a very scary experience.

I talk about it in my book about going to Italy and falling sick with a cold that I thought may kill me.  I was still in immunotherapy treatment then and honestly I thought at some point those thoughts would disappear over time.

They haven’t.

The thoughts are a tad quieter now but anything can set them off very quickly.

 

Let’s Plan a Vacation… After Cancer

The sun. The sea. The food. The rest.

That’s what I used to hear when someone said “vacation.” It was so exciting! I could hardly wait for the plane to take off!

That’s not what I hear anymore. Oh no.  It has changed dramatically now…

The New Version of “Let’s Go Away”

Let’s plan a vacation.

Sure…okay…yeah…but where is the nearest hospital? Do I have enough sunscreen?
What if I get sick… and it’s not just being sick? What if it is something? What if I don’t feel well and my brain goes right back there?

Then the brain steps in and we are in trouble even more! “Is this actually relaxing?
Or is this just me… in a different place… managing the same thoughts? Oh, and travel insurance.
We need to talk about travel insurance. How much is enough?”

Before vs. After

Before cancer, a trip was simple.

Pick a place. Book a flight. Buy a new bikini. Pack a bag. I am on my way!

Now?

It’s a strategy. It’s research. It’s preparation layered with a quiet kind of fear that doesn’t always announce itself… but is always nearby. Sometimes it waits right until the night before we go and I have to decide if I want to listen to the thoughts that are trying to murder me in my sleep before we go…or just let it go and trust the Universe that I will somehow survive this beautiful vacation we have planned.

How crazy is that?!  Cancer even took the joy out of a trip whether it is spontaneous or even planned now. Ugh…..

Does It Ever Go Away?

I thought that feeling of fear would go away once I was done my treatment and just on tamoxifen. I was hopeful that time would soften it. That distance from treatment would quiet it.

It really hasn’t.

It’s quieter, yes. But it’s still there and honestly, it doesn’t take much to wake it up.

What Travel Looks Like Now

It looks quite different. It looks like excitement… with hesitation.
It looks like planning… with backup plans.
It looks like wanting to go… and questioning if I should. It looks like checking where the nearest hospital is before you check where the best restaurant is. I have gone so far as to Google the possible Doctors at the potential hospitals I may end up at if I get sick to see who they are…I know…just another way to use my love for Google to solve life’s problems!

It also looks like packing medication before outfits. It looks like being prepared in a way I never had to be before!

If This Is You…

If you’re reading this and thinking, this is exactly how I feel, you’re not alone.

Honestly, this part doesn’t get talked about enough. The part where I am “fine”… but not really carefree anymore.

Family and friends who have never gone through a diagnosis may be thinking “What is the big deal?! You are FINE now!”

Nope. We are not.  It takes something to make a trip enjoyable.

So, Let’s Make This Easier

You can still go…But you go differently.

You plan more. You ask more questions. You make sure you have what you need before you leave.

You get the insurance and a good amount of it and you READ the fine print on that insurance! You bring copies of important parts of your medical records and you know where to go if something happens.

Not because something will happen. That would be silly! Of course nothing is going to happen!
But because knowing you can handle it changes everything.

And the thoughts you have been having might come anyway. A headache might feel bigger than it is. A stomach ache might take you somewhere you don’t want to go. Your mind might try to convince you that you’re back there again…

You’re not.

But that doesn’t mean it won’t feel like you are.

Allow yourself to be KIND to yourself and all the thoughts that may come up!

The Shift

You don’t wait for the fear to go away, you just go with it. (That was a really great movie by the way with Jennifer Aniston and Adam Sandler…oops, off topic!)

You acknowledge it. You prepare for it. And then you go anyway!  Because you have already learned that life is short and whether you go ro stay home those thoughts are going to be there and you may as well live it up in Argentina on a beach somewhere than in a place that you feel safe.

To those of you reading this who are the friends, family or caregivers of one of us who have gone through this…consider going on a vacation our way of skydiving. We don’t need to jump from a plane to feel the fear associated with it.  We live with that fear all the time and a change of venue for us can feel like we just made the jump!

So… Should You Go?

Yes. But do it your way.

Maybe it’s shorter trips. Maybe it’s somewhere closer to home. Maybe it’s building in rest time and not trying to do everything.  Maybe it’s simply going somewhere and proving to yourself that you can! Because living in fear and not moving forward is not really living, in my opinion!

My Final Thought

You don’t have to feel completely ready. I know I don’t most times!

You don’t have to feel fearless.  I never do!

You just have to be willing. I always am, even if I need to be pushed out the door sometimes!

Because cancer changes a lot of things…But it doesn’t get to take this too if you are willing to jump. ✈️💛
Mistletoe & Vitamin C in Cancer Care: A Real Story of Integrative Healing

Mistletoe & Vitamin C in Cancer Care: A Real Story of Integrative Healing

By | | Comments 0 Comment

When I was diagnosed with cancer, my calendar filled up faster than my Amazon cart on a bad day.

Appointments. Treatments. Decisions. More appointments. Fears. Tears. Feeling out of control.

What doesn’t always get talked about is how to support ones body through all of it and not just survive it.

During my breast cancer journey, I chose to combine Western medical treatment with integrative, Eastern-influenced care.

Not instead of.
Alongside.

Because I wanted to treat the cancer but I also wanted to support me.

Supporting My Body During Chemo, Radiation & Surgery

Before I ever touched mistletoe or high-dose vitamin C, I was already working with a qualified Naturopathic Doctor (ND).

Together, we focused on supporting my body while I went through:

Chemotherapy
Radiation
Surgery

This included:

Carefully selected supplements
Nutritional support
Managing side effects
Helping my body stay as strong as possible

And let’s be clear, this was done safely and intentionally alongside my medical treatments.

No rogue decisions. No “I read this on the internet at 2am so let’s go.” No googling “what will make me better faster?”

Why I Didn’t Start Mistletoe & Vitamin C Right Away

Now here’s where real life kicks in. While you may not feel like you have choices, you do!

You can do mistletoe and vitamin C IV’s during treatment.

Many people do.

I chose not to.

Why?

 Because honestly, I already felt like a human dartboard.  Between chemo, bloodwork, and everything else, I had enough needles coming at me weekly. Adding more needles? Hard pass at that stage.

So I waited until I was nearing the end of my Western treatments when my body (and let’s be honest, my patience) had a little more room.

And that’s something I want you to hear clearly:

You don’t have to do everything at once to be doing something right. You just need to be doing what is right for YOU!

Now, you may be asking…What is Mistle Toe  and High Dose Vitamin C Therapy?

Mistletoe therapy uses extracts from the Viscum album plant and is widely used in integrative oncology, especially in Europe.

It’s typically given as small injections under the skin but in my case, I take it intravenously with high dose Vitamin C.

When I Used It…

I introduced mistletoe toward the end of treatment and into recovery when I had the capacity to add another layer of support.

After much reading about this combination and working with my ND, I learned that this treatment is great for immune system support,
increased energy,  and improved quality of life.

It’s not a cure. It’s support.

Think of it as backup dancers, not the headliner.

High-Dose Vitamin C (IV Therapy) is delivered through an IV allowing levels in your bloodstream that you simply can’t get from food or supplements. High-Dose Vitamin C helps again with immune support, reducing fatigue and support during recovery. All of the things I needed!

At this point in my journey, my focus shifted to:

Recovery
Rebuilding strength
Supporting long-term health

Western Medicine vs. Integrative Care (Let’s Talk About It)

This is where things can get… tense. And I mean like you may think you are doing everything wrong and your Doctor team now hate you…trust me, they do not!

Many Western-trained doctors may resist or question therapies like mistletoe or IV vitamin C.  And before we sharpen pitchforks, let’s pause.  The truth is, they’re not wrong.

They are trained in evidence-based systems that prioritize large clinical trials, standardized care, and safety.

That training is critical. It saves lives every day.

But it also means they may not be trained in integrative or naturopathic approaches.

So when they hesitate or act superior with their opinion, it’s not necessarily opposition, it’s the framework they were taught.

And Still…NEVER FORGET… It’s YOUR Body

Here’s where both truths get to coexist:

Your medical team brings essential expertise and you have the right to explore supportive options.  You are not at the mercy of what your medical Doctor says.

For me, it looked like this:

I followed my oncologist’s treatment plan. I worked with a qualified ND. I supported my body during treatment with supplements and
I added mistletoe and vitamin C when it felt right for me.

Not rushed. Not pressured. Not because someone on Instagram said “this changed everything.”

(If it sounds like a miracle in a caption… proceed with caution.)

What Integrative Cancer Care Really Means

Integrative care isn’t about replacing Western medicine.  It’s about expanding the support system around it.

For me, that included:

Medical treatment, Nutritional support, Movement and fitness, Mental and emotional health, and Targeted therapies like mistletoe and vitamin C

It’s never been about doing more.  It’s  been about doing what’s meaningful and manageable for me.  While some tried to tell me “how to do cancer treatment”, I thanked them for sharing and did what was right for me.

If You’re Considering This Path

If you’re exploring mistletoe therapy or high-dose vitamin C, here is what I can share with you:

👉 Work with a licensed Naturopathic Doctor (ND) trained in integrative oncology

👉 Ensure your care is coordinated with your medical team

👉 Understand your timing during treatment vs. after

👉 Avoid anyone promising cures (that’s your cue to politely exit stage left)

The bottom line is mistletoe therapy and high-dose vitamin C are part of the growing world of integrative cancer care and prevention.

They are not cures.
They are not replacements.

But they can be powerful supportive tools when used properly.

A Final Thought to Share

Cancer treatment can make you feel like everything is happening to you. Like you have zero choice in how things go.

Integrative care gave me a way to feel like I was participating again. Like I had a say in how my treatments were going to go.

And that shift? It matters more than people realize.

So if you’re navigating this path be sure to take your time, ask questions and build your team!  Also, remember, you do not have to do everything and you only have to do what is right for you!

💛 An INVITE for You!

If you’re looking for a real, honest perspective on navigating cancer with strength, movement, and mindset…

My book Dancing Through Diagnosis shares the full journey. Raw, resilient, and yes, with a few laughs along the way because not everything in life is 100% serious! Not even cancer!

You don’t have to walk this path alone.  There are many of us survivors out here doing what we can to support those newly diagnosed.

I am here for you.

Much love,

Tammy

 
Tamoxifen Brain Fog Is NOT the Same as “I’m Just Forgetful”

Tamoxifen Brain Fog Is NOT the Same as “I’m Just Forgetful”

By | | Comments 0 Comment

If you or someone you know is experiencing tamoxifen brain fog, let’s clear something up right away: it is not the same thing as casually misplacing your keys. (Which I also do often and cannot blame on the tamoxifen unfortunately…)

There is everyday forgetfulness… And then there is standing in your kitchen at 8 a.m., staring at your pill organizer, wondering if you just took your tamoxifen dose… or if you’re about to double it.

They are 100% NOT the same thing!

As a breast cancer survivor on long-term tamoxifen treatment, I can tell you that memory changes are real. They’re frustrating. They’re subtle. And sometimes they’re downright  dramatic!

People mean well when they say, “Oh, I’m forgetful too!” And I appreciate the attempt at connection. But tamoxifen-related memory loss hits differently.

Forgetting your grocery list is inconvenient… Forgetting whether you took a medication that reduces your risk of cancer recurrence? That’s a psychological thriller before breakfast! I mean…I love a good thriller but NOT this kind!

Let’s talk about what tamoxifen brain actually feels like, how I manage it, and what happened this morning when my system failed me.

What Is Tamoxifen Brain Fog?

Many people on tamoxifen for breast cancer report cognitive changes. These can include:

  • Brain fog
  • Short-term memory lapses
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Word-finding issues
  • Mental fatigue

Hormone therapy affects estrogen levels, and estrogen plays a role in cognitive function. When that balance shifts, your brain sometimes feels like it’s buffering.

Not broken. Just… buffering.  Or maybe like old school dial-up internet if you need a sound to go with it!

And when you’re on this medication for 5 to 10 years, that buffering can become part of daily life.  It is the longest buffering ever!

“I’m Forgetful Too” Is Not the Same Thing

When I say I have tamoxifen brain fog, I’m not describing cute absent-mindedness.

I’m describing this:

A daily medication.
A structured routine.
2 pill organizers filled every 2 weeks with military precision.

I take my tamoxifen first thing every morning. Same spot in the kitchen. Same time. Same order. Routine is my safety net. If I remove decision-making, I remove doubt.

Except today.

I woke up. I opened Sunday’s compartment. I took the pill.

Or at least… I think I did.

I went up to the office, did some work and then came down to get my supplements about an hour later. My “normal” routine.

And there it was.

A small white tablet sitting in the organizer in the Sunday spot.

Tamoxifen.

Now my brain goes into investigative mode.

Did I take it already?
Is this an extra?
Did I put 2 pills in todays when it should have been 1?
Am I about to double-dose?

This is the moment people don’t see.

The freeze.

The replaying of memory like security footage.
The self-doubt creeping in. The making myself wrong for everything from that morning…and maybe even that week!

Because now it’s not about forgetfulness. It’s about tamoxifen dosage confusion and the fear of making a mistake with cancer medication.

That hits differently.

The Panic and the Shame

Here’s the part no one warns you about.

It’s not just the brain fog. It’s the self-criticism that follows.

How can you not remember something this important?

You can manage appointments. You can run programs. You can write a book. But you can’t remember if you swallowed one pill?!

It’s a fast slide into feeling incompetent.

Because tamoxifen side effects include cognitive changes. This isn’t laziness. It isn’t carelessness. It’s a known experience among many people on long-term hormone therapy.

But knowing that doesn’t always stop the emotional spiral.

How I Manage Tamoxifen Brain Fog

If you’re navigating memory issues on tamoxifen, here’s what I’ve learned works for me:

  1. Pill Organizers Are Non-Negotiable

I use a daily compartment system. No bottles. No guesswork. Everything pre-loaded for 2 weeks in advance. Day pills and night pills.  ***This NORMALLY works! And is the best solution I have found so far.

  1. Same Routine, Every Day

Same time. Same location. Same sequence. Routine reduces cognitive load.

  1. No “Quick Exceptions”

I don’t take it in another room. I don’t grab it “just this once” while distracted. Consistency protects me.

  1. Pause Before Panic

If I’m unsure, I breathe. I retrace steps. I check the previous day’s compartment. I look for patterns.

Sometimes I move forward knowing one imperfect moment in a decade of adherence does not undo everything. (Once I have either called my Oncologist or used ChatGPT to confirm I won’t die if I miss one day that is)

Living With Long-Term Tamoxifen Treatment

Here’s something that rarely gets said.

Ten years is a long time to be vigilant.

Ten years of daily medication.
Ten years of monitoring your body.
Ten years of remembering appointments, scans, bloodwork, refills.

That mental load adds up.

So if your brain feels tired, it might not be weakness. It might be exhaustion from sustained survival mode.

Tamoxifen brain fog isn’t just about memory. It’s about the emotional weight attached to it.

When you’re on breast cancer hormone therapy, every pill carries meaning.

It represents protection.
It represents risk reduction.
It represents the fear of recurrence.

So when doubt creeps in, it’s not casual.  It is like King Kong hanging on the side of the building about ready to grab you!

What Happened This Morning

After the internal drama and the suspicious Sunday compartment, I did what I’ve trained myself to do.

I stopped.

I examined yesterdays and today’s slot.
I replayed the routine calmly instead of catastrophically…. well maybe with a bit of anxiety if I am being honest….

Then I ChatGPT’d what happens if I miss one pill vs. potentially taking 2 in one day and then I moved forward.  Thank you ChatGPT!

No all-day shame spiral.
No self-punishment narrative.

Just: You are doing your best.

Because here’s the truth.

If you’re on tamoxifen and you occasionally forget whether you took it, you are not stupid. You are a human navigating a medication that affects your brain chemistry.

A Note for Loved Ones

If someone in your life says they’re struggling with tamoxifen memory issues, try this instead of comparison:

“That sounds stressful.”

Validation goes further than relatability.

Moving Forward With Compassion

Tamoxifen brain fog is real.
Memory changes during breast cancer treatment are real.
The emotional layer attached to medication adherence is real.

But so is resilience.

Some days I glide through my routine.
Some days I stand in fuzzy socks arguing silently with a pill organizer.

Both count.

Both are part of the long dance of survivorship.

If you’re navigating tamoxifen brain fog, you’re not alone. Build systems. Create routines. Ask for support. And when you stumble, keep moving forward.

Your brain is adapting.  You are surviving.

And even on the days your memory wobbles, you are still showing up for your health.

That counts more than perfection ever will.

Much love,

Tammy

 
When the Fear Comes Back Before the Cancer Does…

When the Fear Comes Back Before the Cancer Does…

By | | Comments 0 Comment

Living With the Worry of Recurrence

No one warns you about this chapter of the journey.

They prepare you for the diagnosis…kind of…by looking worried when they do your tests. You know something is up but what? You soon find out.
They brace you for treatment…kind of…by seeing an oncologist who throws words at you while you try to figure out what in life got you to this point.
They celebrate the bell, the scans, the “all clear.” And YOU celebrate them too because WOW, you are still alive after all of that!

What they don’t mention is the lingering fear that slips in after everyone else has gone home.

The worry of recurrence. The subtitles playing behind the life movie that nobody mentioned to turn on!

It doesn’t arrive with drama. It shows up quietly.
A weird ache. “Is it back?”
A random wave of exhaustion. “Is it back?”
A follow-up appointment sitting on your calendar like it pays rent. “Waiting is brutal…still!”

I remember thinking, Why am I still scared?
I did the chemo.
I showed up for the surgeries.
I survived the thing that was supposed to be the worst part.

Turns out, survival comes with an emotional aftertaste.

Here’s what no one puts on the pamphlet: cancer doesn’t just affect your body. It rewires your nervous system. Once you’ve lived in crisis mode, your brain becomes an overachiever. Every sensation becomes suspicious. Every quiet moment invites a “what if.”

And fear? Fear gets clever. It pretends it’s just being responsible. Checking in on things just to be safe.

Because left unchecked, it steals your joy in sensible shoes. It steals your perfect sunny afternoon walking the dog.  It steals your time with family and friends. It steals everything!

I spent a long time trying to stay positive through the fear. Smile harder. Be grateful louder. Pretend confidence would scare it away. Spoiler: fear does not respond to motivational quotes. Trust me, I tried!

What helped was something far less glamorous.

I stopped fighting it.  I stopped resisting what I had been through for the last 2 and a half years.

Instead, I acknowledged it.
“Yes, that happened.”
“Yes, that was terrifying.”
“Yes, my body remembers.”

And then I grounded myself in what is actually true, not what might be.

Right now, I am okay.
Right now, I am alive.
Right now, my body is not the enemy.

Living with the fear of recurrence isn’t about pretending it won’t happen. It’s about refusing to let a hypothetical future hijack today. It’s about choosing presence over panic, even when uncertainty taps you on the shoulder.

Some days, that looks like movement. Dancing myself back into trust.
Some days, it looks like rest. Real rest, not “earning it” rest.
Some days, it looks like laughing at something ridiculous and realizing I’m still here for the punchline.

And yes, some days fear still shows up. But it no longer gets to drive.  It is just the passenger in the backseat that every now and then tries to be the backseat driver and we all know how we feel about “those ones”!

If you’re living in this space, wondering if you’re doing survivorship “wrong,” let me be clear: you’re not broken. You’re not weak. You’re not failing.

You’re adapting.

We don’t dance because the future is guaranteed.
We dance because the music is playing now.

And today, that’s more than enough.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

If this resonates, you’re not alone.

In Dancing Through Diagnosis, I share what survivorship really looks like, the good, the messy, and the surprisingly funny moments no one prepares you for.

Available now on Amazon, Indigo and if you are reading this blog, you are on my site and you can find it here at www.tammygunn.com

Because healing doesn’t end when treatment does.  YOU are NOT alone!
Why Weighted Vests & Belts Are the Secret Weapon for Aging Like a Badass…

Why Weighted Vests & Belts Are the Secret Weapon for Aging Like a Badass…

By | | Comments 0 Comment

I was recently approached by this amazing Canadian company to learn more about the benefits of weighted wearables and I have learned that this REALLY IS a secret weapon to taking care of ones’ health.  Here is why…

Let’s be upfront and honest…Aging is a privilege and it also comes with a few surprises. Achy joints. Slower recovery. Random mystery sounds when you get out of a chair. And for many women (and men!) creeping into midlife and beyond, bone density decides to play a cruel game of limbo: How low can you go?  Me? Not very low anymore!

If you’re a woman on tamoxifen, you’ve probably already heard the warnings whispered like ghost stories around a campfire: osteopenia… osteoporosis… brittle bones. And the fun part? Many don’t realize bone loss can start early, especially through cancer treatment. And you do not have to have gone through cancer treatment to be facing this lovely part of getting older! But before you wrap yourself in bubble wrap and swear off all activities except crocheting (which, to be fair, is wildly underrated), let’s talk about a powerhouse solution that’s affordable, effective, and surprisingly fun:

Weighted vests and belts.

Yes. Those chunky little heroes? They’re game-changers. I have seriously fallen in love!

The Science-y Truth: Your Bones Need a Challenge

Bones aren’t passive sticks holding up your skin bag. (Such a fun way to describe being human!)  Our bones are living, always adapting, always responding to the load you place on them.
If you place more load (enter: weighted vest), they respond by saying:

“Oh, we’re doing THIS now? Fine. I’ll get stronger.”

This magic is called osteogenic loading, and it’s one of the best ways to keep your skeleton solid as you age. Walking, dancing, cleaning, doing stairs — all get a bone-boosting upgrade when you add a little safe, evenly-distributed weight.  And it is so easy that you don’t need to really do anything different in your day, other than throw on the vest or belt before you do your regular activities!

Benefits of wearing a weighted vest/or belt include:

  • Increased bone density

  • Stronger posture (hello superhero stance)

  • Better balance

  • Improved muscle tone

  • Higher calorie burn (without doing anything extra = blessed.)

  • Confidence boost because you feel like a warrior in disguise (I am not kidding! You will feel so good all over!)

Let’s Talk Weighted Gear & Tamoxifen: Your Bones Deserve Backup

Tamoxifen is a lifesaver but it can be a bone-density troublemaker for some people, especially premenopausal women. Even post-treatment, the risk of osteoporosis can be higher.  It is the little pill that decreases your chances of cancer recurring but like anything you take, it comes with side effects and here we are fighting to keep our bone health safe!

So what can help?

Regular weight-bearing movement + added load = bones staying dense, fierce, and fully employed.

A weighted vest or belt is like giving your bones a pep talk:
“Hey, don’t you dare shrink. We’ve got things to do.”

Every time I put mine on I feel like a Super Hero getting ready to take on the day! It is an amazing confidence boost!

Vests vs. Belts: Which One’s Your Style?

I mention both because I own both and I LOVE them both for different reasons so let me break down each of them for you…

Weighted Vests

Perfect for:

  • Walking

  • Hiking

  • Household chores

  • Teaching or taking Zumba (I see you!)

  • Everyday errands that double as stealth workouts

It sits comfortably, distribute weight evenly, and doesn’t shift around like that bra you know you should get rid of but wear all the time anyway!

Weighted Belts

Perfect for:

  • Dog walks

  • Running

  • Mobility work

  • People who want the benefits without looking like they’re wearing tactical gear

Belts are subtle but powerful like the quiet kid from high school who later becomes a CEO.

Next up…Okay But Why Power WearHouse?

Because — and I’m not exaggerating — they’re the best weighted vests and belts on the market.
Most weights out there?
• Too bulky
• Too bouncy
• Dig into your shoulders
• Or look like they were designed by someone who hates comfort…seriously….why would you wear something that is so uncomfortable when you have a choice?!

Power WearHouse gets it RIGHT!
Comfortable. Adjustable. Designed for real bodies doing real movement. And they actually look… good!

I’ve tested them. I’ve worn them. I’ve danced in them. I’ve walked my dog in them. I’ve lived my life in them. And I can confidently say:
Your future bones will thank you.

Here is MY Invitation to Level Up (With a Discount 😏)

If you’re ready to age with strength, sass, mobility, and bones that refuse to quit, here’s your moment.

👉🏼 Order your weighted vest or belt at:

powerwearhouse.com

Click the link above and use my code POWERWITHTAMMY for a sweet little discount because strong bones shouldn’t come with a big price tag.

My Final Thoughts:

You don’t need to overhaul your life.
You don’t need to join a gym.
You don’t need to turn into “that person” who talks about fitness at dinner parties.

Just add a vest or belt to what you’re already doing like walking the dog, climbing stairs, dancing in the kitchen, chasing the kids, or living your everyday magic.

A little weight today = a LOT more living tomorrow.

Your bones are ready.
Your future self is cheering.
And honestly? You’re going to look fantastic.

Don’t just take my word for it…EXPERIENCE it for YOURSELF!

Much love,

Tammy
When Healing Feels Heavy: My Life with Lymphedema

When Healing Feels Heavy: My Life with Lymphedema

By | | Comments 0 Comment

Nobody warned me that surviving cancer came with bonus features…

Scars? Expected.

Fatigue? Sure.

Random swelling that makes me feel like I have arm-wrestled the Pillsbury Doughboy and lost? Yeah, that one was not in the brochure.

Welcome to life with lymphedema! The unwanted gift that keeps on giving!

When I woke up after my bilateral mastectomy, I was greeted with the news that the surgeon had to take many of my lymph nodes from my right arm pit because they tested positive for cancer.  I knew this might happen but on the day of surgery they still were not clear if they would need to.  I had my mind set that they wouldn’t need to so this was a blow to my emotional state when they told me.  What it now meant was my lymph system used to move fluid around efficiently. Now it’s like, “Nope, I’m out. You handle it.” The result? One arm (and sometimes armpit) that swells, tightens, and throbs like one of those neon lights flickering in a window.

What It Feels Like (Spoiler: Not a Spa Day)

Imagine wearing an invisible blood-pressure cuff that never quite releases. Add in a pinch of heaviness, a dash of tingling, and the occasional “did-someone-stuff-a-tennis-ball-under-my-skin?” sensation. That’s lymphedema.

Most mornings, I wake up and my arm looks fine… almost normal. Other days, it feels like it’s been filled with wet sand overnight. If I lift it too long or skip my sleeve, I swear I can hear it puff up like a balloon.  You may not be able to see it because my arm so far doesn’t swell up as bad as many others do but I can feel it and it feels huge and uncomfortable.

Oh, and don’t get me started on how weather affects it. Humid days? Forget it. My arm swells faster than my hair in a rainstorm.

How I Deal with It (and Try Not to Lose My Mind)

Let’s get one thing straight: lymphedema isn’t something you cure. It’s something you manage …like a grumpy roommate who refuses to move out. But I’ve learned a few tricks to keep the peace.

  1. Compression Garments: My Not-So-Sexy Armor

Yes, I wear a compression sleeve. Sometimes a bra that feels like it was engineered by NASA. They’re not glamorous, but they work. You get used to it. Think of them like Spanx for your lymph system. Juzo.com has some of the most beautiful tattoo style prints that make compression sleeves a thing of fashion!

I’ve learned to pick fun colors and pretend like I’m auditioning for a superhero reboot: “Lympha-Woman: Defender of Circulation!”

  1. Massage and Manual Drainage

There’s a fancy name for it — Manual Lymphatic Drainage — which sounds like a plumbing service. But it’s basically gentle self-massage to help move fluid. I do it daily, whispering encouraging things to my arm like, “Come on, girl, let’s get things flowing. You can do it!”

  1. Movement That Doesn’t Make Me Swear

Exercise helps but not the “crush-it” kind. Think Zumba, walking, stretching, yoga, and anything that keeps the lymph fluid moving without overdoing it.
I’ve learned the hard way that pushing too far means puffing up later. So now I stop before my arm throws a tantrum.

  1. Hydration (and Fewer Salty Snacks, Sigh)

Turns out the more water I drink, the less my arm swells. Wild, right? I also try to limit salt and sugar. This is a tough one because I love a good salty snack!
But I’ll be real… if it’s movie night and there’s popcorn; I’m not measuring sodium content. I’ll just wear my sleeve, deal with the swelling and call it balance.

  1. Skin Care Is Non-Negotiable

Because my lymph system’s lazy, any cut or bug bite could turn into an infection. So, I baby my skin like it’s royalty. I never was one to be great at skincare before but now I am obsessed with moisturizer, gentle soap, and clean towels. Basically, I treat my arm and all of my skin better than anything.

  1. Rest and Elevation

Sometimes the best thing I can do is lie down and prop my arm up like it’s living its best queen life. It’s not glamorous, but hey, if my arm wants to relax on a pillow throne, so be it. It helps!

The Mental Weight No One Talks About

Physically, lymphedema is uncomfortable. But emotionally? It’s exhausting. It’s a daily reminder that even though I “beat cancer,” my body still carries the baggage. There are days I look at my swollen arm and think, Seriously? Haven’t we been through enough?

Then there are days I marvel at what my body still can do. It’s carried me through chemo, surgery, radiation, and now, this. It’s a little swollen, a little stubborn, but still showing up. Kind of like me!

I’ve learned to laugh about it when I can. I even gave my swollen side a nickname: The Diva. She acts up when I’m stressed, hates humidity, and demands attention. But when I care for her, she usually settles down.

What I Want Others to Know

If you’re dealing with lymphedema or love someone who is, know that this condition is both invisible and relentless. It’s not “just swelling.” It’s physical discomfort, body image frustration, and a lifelong maintenance plan. But it’s also survivorship. It’s resilience with a side of sarcasm.

And here’s the thing: I may have to manage this forever, but I refuse to let it manage me.

I dance. I write. I live. Some days I do it with grace; other days I do it with a swollen armpit and a bad attitude. But I do it! And that’s what matters.

My Final thought: Healing isn’t about looking perfect. It’s about learning to live fully even when one arm needs a little extra TLC and a custom sleeve.

When you see me out dancing with my compression gear on, don’t pity me. Just know I’m moving, sweating, and still very much living through the swell.

It is not easy. But it is do-able!
Wait!! Can You Break a Boob?

Wait!! Can You Break a Boob?

By | | Comments 0 Comment

This month marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month…as a survivor, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is really every month of the year.  I do have moments now where I forget what I went through and that usually only lasts a few minutes, maybe an hour.  Honestly, this is because the scars I have cannot be unseen.  For this month, I wanted to share one chapter from my book Dancing Through Diagnosis.  What more fitting than the night my life changed…

Chapter 1

OH HELLO-THAT’S NEW

July 7th, 2021

“Pour me a glass of wine. I will be right down. Just got
to shower!” I holler while shutting down my laptop and
running upstairs.
It was a Wednesday night and like every Wednesday
night before it, during the pandemic I was teaching an
online Zumba class followed by a yummy dinner with a
glass of wine and a movie with my husband. Even through
the pandemic I had continued to teach hot, sweaty, dance
your heart out Zumba classes, albeit online. But still going
strong five days a week!

After a decade plus of dancing five to six days a week
easily doing anywhere from four to seven hours a day, I
still cannot get enough! Not even a pandemic can stop me
from shaking what my momma gave me!
Only this night would change the trajectory of
everything; simply by towelling off after a shower.
“What is that?” I said to myself… or maybe out loud.
Probably out loud and it was more like “WTH?!”
As my towel brushed past the bottom of my right
breast, I couldn’t help noticing that something didn’t feel
right. Broken glass? It felt like broken glass. Is that possible?
Could I have broken my boob? Can you break a boob?

My mind began to swirl toward real questions then to
ones that were clearly insane and made no sense… and yet,
I asked them out loud… to myself… in the mirror.
Is this one bigger than the left?
It’s not itchy… should it be itchy?
Will lotion smooth out those glassy edges?
Nope… what is that??
Quickly, I finished drying off and got dressed. My mind
was still racing. In that moment, I KNEW something wasn’t
right, but it couldn’t be what my brain was now racing at
full speed ahead to… the C word. Noooooo…. I am way too
young for that!
No, you’re not. Forty-four is not too young.
Thanks brain! You always know how to make a girl feel
good and calm!
I ran downstairs to find my husband scrolling through
Netflix looking for our movie of the night.
“Give me your hand!” I said as I ran toward him with
great concern.
He gave me his hand and before he knew it, he was in
full doctor mode (and not the fun kind) feeling my breast.
“Do you feel that?”
“Yes.”
“What is it?”
“I am not a doctor, Tammy. You should get that checked.”
“Right?! I should. That is not normal right?”
“I think you need to get it checked.” He repeated the
words and continued to scroll through Netflix with his
other hand.
I needed him to feel what I felt and confirm for me
that I was not losing my mind. And that it needed to be
checked, even though he had already said it twice. I felt
like I couldn’t trust myself anymore because my brain was
already hurtling me into a coffin by tomorrow.

I was at the beginning of a mental hurricane that whips
its way through any rational thinking and had begun
planning my funeral.
Does this ever happen to you?
The brain takes over all common sense and suddenly
you are making mental lists of who gets what when you
die and wishing you hadn’t been so crazy when you were
younger. Of wanting to take back so much of what you had
done but, in all honesty, it got you to where you are today.
And beside the broken boob and needing a doctor, you
think your life has actually been pretty awesome. Just not
at the moment because you still have a broken boob….
Please tell me I am not alone in this!
That night, I called and left a message for my doctor.
The real one… The one who could help. Because with
Google only a click away, I would be making my own full
diagnosis if I couldn’t reach my REAL doctor soon!
The next day I did speak to my doctor, thankfully,
because my brain was still on fast forward. And my doctor
knows me well enough to know that if I am calling like this,
I am in panic mode about something.
Yup, everything felt like it was moving at the speed of
light and yet at a turtle’s speed to get answers!

 

That night changed everything in my life. Any cancer patient can tell you when and how they discovered it.  I wrote Dancing Through Diagnosis for all those on the journey and those supporting family and friends on the journey because I think we need to get really real about what this experience is like and learn about all we don’t know about going through cancer. I never thought in a million years it would be me writing about this, but here we are!  And maybe it had to be me so that the medical jargon gets left out. And maybe because I love to write in real talk with a sense of humor and that is what the world needs right now.

On Amazon the readers find the content inspiring, encouraging, and hopeful. They appreciate the humor, saying it’s witty and playful. Readers describe the book as an excellent read for patients, caregivers, and those facing challenging times. They find the writing style engaging, tender, witty, and clear. They also describe the story as authentic and an emotional journey that deepens empathy.

I guess it is true then if you read it on Amazon! 😉  All joking aside, I have seen how this book has positively impacted those who have read it. I hope you will too and share it with your family and friends.

Links to purchase Dancing Through Diagnosis: CLICK HERE for Canada 

CLICK HERE for USA
The Biggest Challenge I Danced Through was Not Breast Cancer…

The Biggest Challenge I Danced Through was Not Breast Cancer…

By | | Comments 0 Comment

One of the biggest adjustments in my life after cancer is not the cancer itself surprisingly but the lymphedema in my right arm from having my lymph nodes removed

Let us refresh on what exactly is Lymphedema?

Think of lymphedema like this:

The lymphatic system is basically the body’s sewer system.  While we go about our day it is quietly whisking away excess fluid, waste, bacteria and viruses. When it’s working properly, we don’t notice it at all.  In fact, I didn’t even understand it existed at all until I had part of it removed! When it’s not working… well, imagine our sink drain is clogged up with hair or food or something else nasty. The water (in this case, lymph fluid) has nowhere to go, so it starts pooling where it shouldn’t.

That’s lymphedema! A stubborn, unwanted pooling of fluid under your skin. Your limb puffs up like it’s a balloon-animal, but instead of being a cute giraffe or a poodle, you just end up with a swollen leg or arm.

Important Note: It’s not contagious, it’s certainly not glamorous, but it is persistent! Almost like that one guest who won’t leave the party even after you’ve put the lights on and started cleaning up.  Take a hint! It is time to gooooo!

This really is, in my opinion, one of the worst parts of having metastatic breast cancer.

I have been dealing with this for 3 years now and will for the rest of my life.  I am not complaining about it…well, some days I am if I am being honest.  Like when it is really swollen and even just wearing a t-shirt is the most annoying thing ever.

There are many things I can do to get it back under control such as lymphatic drainage massages either on myself or by a professional.  In this type of treatment, it is like mapping the fluid to the drainage ports in our body.  Slowly pushing the Jell-O like substance under the skin (aka-Lymph fluid) towards the groin and opposite armpit where the lymphatic system is still intact and can process all the waste.  I am sorry for the Jell-O analogy.  I know I can’t eat it anymore either after that visual. Blahh…. textures are now a thing for me!

When I first had to learn to manage my lymphedema it was noted that my right arm and hand were what was affected by the lymphedema.  Knowing this, I was put into a compression garment for my arm and hand.  It has been working great; however, in the last year I have noticed that the fluid is now being trapped in my shoulder and armpit as well as the scapula area.

Fun right? Not really!

Today I had an appointment with Cancer Rehabilitation.  Yes, that is a thing! And thank God it is!  The appointment consisted of my physiotherapist measuring the swelling in my arm.  The crazy part is my left arm is now smaller than my right, but my right arm is smaller than it was three years ago!

So, what does that even mean?

Well, it means that I am managing my lymphedema very well in my arm.  That is the good part!

The not great part is the uncomfortable pooling of fluid happening in my arm pit and my back area.  The good part about today is I learned there are options to support the movement of fluid in this area as well!   There are compression bras and padding that can be added to a bra to help compress and move the fluid.

I recommend we all learn as much as possible about our lymphatic system BEFORE we have to learn to manage it like I have. Here is a comprehensive list of things we can do to manage our lymphatic system:

Move Your Body (Daily)

  • Exercise is #1. Walking, dancing, yoga, rebounding, and swimming are great examples of all that help.
  • Think: movement = drainage.

Stay Hydrated

  • Lymph fluid is mostly water…. besides some of that Jell-O like texture. If you’re dehydrated, your system slows down like pouring molasses.
  • Aim for steady sips throughout the day and make your water interesting by adding cucumber, lemon or even basil!

Massage & Dry Brushing

  • Lymphatic massage can be a game-changer, especially if you’ve had surgery or radiation. You can do this yourself or with a professional.
  • Dry brushing (always brushing toward the heart) helps stimulate lymph flow and slough off dead skin.

Deep Breathing

  • You might think you do this, but I will guarantee that most of us do not!
  • Your diaphragm acts like a pump for the lymph system. Slow, deep belly breathing is simple but powerful.
  • Try a few minutes of breathing: inhale for 4, hold 7, exhale 8.

 Eat Clean, Anti-Inflammatory Foods

  • We all know in theory that junk food is bad for us and yet we do it! Now is the time to adjust the sails!
  • Go heavy on veggies, berries, leafy greens, and omega-3s.
  • Avoid processed junk and too much salt, which can make your body hang onto fluid. Sorry salt! I have loved you for too long!

Sweat It Out

  • Saunas, steam rooms, hot yoga are all activities that encourage sweating, which supports detox.
  • Just remember to rehydrate like a champ afterward.  What goes out, you need to replenish back in!

Sleep & Stress Management

  • Poor sleep and chronic stress both throw your lymph system off. Trust me! I have experienced this one firsthand and it is no fun at all!
  • Restorative sleep and stress-reducing practices (meditation, journaling, nature time) keep your immune and drainage systems in sync.

There you have it! Some great ways to support that beautiful system that keeps our bodies healthy and our immune system happy! I hope you never have to know what life is like to live with a broken-down lymphatic system but know that if you ever do, I have you covered!
This Girl Is On Fire (Part II) The Extinguisher

This Girl Is On Fire (Part II) The Extinguisher

By | | Comments 0 Comment

Well, here we are, one month later and I have left you hanging in a hot sweat wondering why you are having that hot flash! Sorry about that, my marketing team tells me that I can’t ramble on too much in one month.  They say that blogs are meant to be 700-1000 words. I bet they have never experienced a hot flash and needed relief!  They are right though, I could really go on and on about this topic. That is why I have broken it up into a two part series to keep you engaged and me coachable to the process of blogging!

Now that we got that out of the way, let’s dive in, shall we?!

What is triggering that nasty “burning you up from the inside out” hot flashes?

To be honest, there are quite a few things that can trigger them unfortunately and women respond differently to certain triggers.  There are some though that are common for us all.  The most irritating thing, in my opinion, is that at one time your body was totally fine and welcoming to all these things.  In fact, some may have been your favorite thing ever!

Here is a Top 10 list I have gathered in no particular order:

  1. Heat – Hot weather, saunas, warm rooms, or even too many blankets can bring on a flash faster than you can say “menopause.”
  2. Spicy foods – Delicious, yes. But your body might treat that jalapeño like a flamethrower. I am a HUGE FAN of spicy food which makes this so disappointing and sometimes I just fight my way through the hot flash and tell myself I am enjoying it!
  3. Caffeine – Your beloved coffee or energy drink can make your internal thermostat glitch. This one I switched to mushroom coffee to deal with and as gross as that might sound, it tastes EXACTLY like coffee! I will share more about this another day!
  4. Alcohol – Especially red wine. What is crazy about this is your Doctor will tell you that if you have any alcohol your best option is red wine for health reasons and yet it can make you feel like you stepped on hot coals on first sip!
  5. Stress or anxiety – Emotional surges often lead to physical ones. Fun, right?
  6. Tight clothing – Restrictive clothes can trap heat and make your body rebel. This year I have taken on being in my flowy dress phase of life to combat this.
  7. Smoking – Not only unhealthy overall but also a notorious hot flash enhancer.
  8. Sugar or high-carb meals – Can spike insulin and mess with thermoregulation. Great! Not even a chocolate bar can help you out of this hot mess!
  9. Exercise (right before bed) – Yes, it’s good for you, but close to bedtime it may rev up your engine too much. Besides, who wants to work out right before bed? Not this girl!
  10. Hot drinks – Even tea or soup can be a sneaky trigger, especially in a warm environment. This one I find though could go either way!

There you have it!  If you avoid all of these things you may be able to reduce or eliminate your hot flashes.  You may also lead the most boring life! Unless you are someone who knows you can embrace giving up all of this and find new happiness living in the Arctic, eating bland food, while sipping on water, meditating in a baggy dress (and cotton underwear) while reading a book before bed.

Okay, all joking aside, you do not have to give all of this up. You just need to figure out what it is for you that sets off your hot flash.  It is a lot of trial and error to get to the point of knowing what your triggers are but if you keep at it, you will find relief.  I promise you!

Lastly, I hear people say that aging sucks but I like to think that the alternative to aging is worse.  Being six feet under! We have to find ways to embrace these new stages in life and remind ourselves that not all get to age, so even this is a privilege.  It is a hot and sweaty burning you up privilege but a privilege all the same! The more we talk about these topics the more we can see we are not alone and we have community to reach out to.

Let me ask you, what would you like me to blog about next?

Send me an email and let me know!

Until then, stay COOL my friends!

Much love,

Tammy

 

 

Book Publishing

Menu

Buy the Book

Dancing Through Diagnosis Tammy Gunn Breast Cancer Survivor Memoir