I don't think it's helpful to be be ashamed of one's feelings, whatever they are. Because someone else faces a difficult situation, yes, maybe even more difficult than your own, that does not negate the challenge that you face. It's a tremendous adjustment for all OC patients.

Others can't understand the extent of side effects involved with this treatment - perhaps it's better to try to educate them, instead of becoming angry (and believe me I have also been angry at insensitivity). This treatment involves basic functions of eating, talking, swallowing, breathing. I try to point out - how well do "normal people" function with a tooth abcess that goes on for several days?

I think there is a general assumption by the public that cancer treatments have improved (better meds to combat nausea, advances in surgical techniques, etc.) and although this is true, there's plenty of suffering still to be endured. Your body and mind go through an assault and it is difficult to move on. Expecting too much from yourself, does not speed up the healing process.
Lottie