Perfectly ok! As someone who has a fair share of anxiety, I can completely understand your position. Sometimes, I may go a month without checking in here. I think it can be attributed to too much of anything can be a bad thing. It is also good to step back and just enjoy life and what life presents outside of the world of leukemia. This sabbatical will be very good for you! Take care!

Andrew

Please do not think that you are alone in this regard -- I know of at least two individuals who had the same problem and I recommended that they stay off the list until they felt stronger about it. Many times things that seem overwhelming today will get behind you -- it might take several weeks or months, but ultimately you will look back and wonder why you felt that way. But it is normal. I advised them to do just what you are doing.

I know it is very difficult for many to be reminded on a daily basis of what could happen. And I appreciate all participants of this forum for your courage. But there are times when we need to back off and regroup -- even Jesus had to take a break now and then. -- daveB

I sooo understand. Relax, regroup this site and all the incredible people on it will be here when you need them.

Margaret

I have found myself in the same situation, which is why I so often disappear. I sometimes feel rather selfish for stepping away, especially since those who came before me sustained me during the period of my greatest anxiety.

My family, too, often chided me for being on DS so much, because they felt that hearing about the travails of others would depress me. Of course, finding out that anyone has hit a "speed bump" in their recovery or has required additional therapy bothers me. Such news should bother anyone who cares.

I love the DS group, and I am very envious of those whose strength has been unflagging, despite the occasional bad news, to steadfastly continue to post almost daily. I just want everyone to know that when I take my own breaks from DS, I am still praying for everyone. As Andrew said, however, too much of anything can be a bad thing. We are all brothers and sisters here and nothing will ever change that.

I would not have survived without the love of those on DS and that love does not revolve around posts alone. It is a feeling that each of us carries in our hearts when we march on Light the Night evenings, volunteer for Be the Match, and pray for the health and recovery of the other brave soldiers who post here.

XO,

Cliff

I so agree that taking a break is healthy. Personally, as a chemo only survivor, every time someone on that treatment path relapses I can't help but personalize it. As I approach the two year mark after the completion of chemo, I want to feel secure. Unfortunately, we have had several warriors relapse after two years. This scares me, I won't lie.

I want to hear about the success stories, I want to BE a success story but as we've all learned, we can't always get what we want. I want to wake up and not think about aml.

Tammy, you have already helped so many here. We'll never know how many read and never post. That's why my daily prayer is for ALL who are fighting.

Blessing

Julie

I too understand taking a break. We will all keep praying for you.

Take care.

Karen