For the last month I have had a break from immunotherapy to go on some high dose steroids to address an autoimmune type of rash that is a common side effect. I have felt GREAT , normal even (except for the itching). I knew this would not be permanent and this week has been a big one. Yesterday I had a successful spine surgery that I am recovering from. I have some pain but it is much less than from previous surgeries. If there is one thing I now know how to do, it’s manage pain. Today I resumed my immmunotherapy infusions. After an infusion I experience extreme fatigue and joint pain. Basically, I feel like a truck hit me. But I experienced so much joy today! I think these experiences were always all around me, but in February when I began infusions, I was still scared and did not recognize the people around me. I am not alone, and joy is about people! Here are some of the things that brought me joy today, with pictures!
My daughter is home and she was going to bring me to my infusion appointment today. She went to a job fair on Tuesday and happily, received two calls from principals asking her for job interviews today! Of course I told her to do that and I would find a friend to take me. Look who I spent the morning with! Cherie McGregor happily got up at dark o’clock this morning. We left at 6:30 am. She was with me for lab work, an appointment with my oncologist’s PA, and then sat with me during my infusion. We got home around 11:30. I never get the chance to spend that much time with her and we enjoyed catching up. She made the treatments go by fast, and helped make them not bad at all. Thank you Cherie! You are a ministering angel and a dear friend
This is a picture of a huge blown glass sculpture at the cancer center at UTSW. Every time I see it, I think it represents my primary kidney tumor. The color of Kidney cancer is orange. And this thing looks menacing with tentacles reaching out to other places. Yup, it is my cancer. But my doctors and I are kicking it’s XXX.
This is a picture of my oncologist’s PA, Theresa D. Sanders. She is as amazing as all of my other doctors. And so warm and caring. She carefully reviewed my labs and gave me the same expert care I receive from Dr. Courtney, my oncologist. I am blessed.
I have graduated from an individual room to the community room for my infusions. I did not see any sad or scared faces. Everyone in the room are experienced at this cancer fight. They smiled and visited with the people who came with them. And every single nurse was working hard with a smile! they were so busy…. and so happy! The community room is a happy place. I will have to visit this room every 2 weeks for the rest of my life. When I first heard that, I felt a heavy burden. Today, it is doable! It won’t be hard with all of these smiling faces.
My house was cleaned today by Marina, my wonderful new friend who helps me with cleaning every 2 weeks. She worked so hard while I slept and rested. I need to remember to get a picture of her.
Laughter! I woke from a nap listening to boisterous laughter from my son and daughter. Is there any better sound? I love my family so much. I am so blessed!
Farm fresh vegetables!!! John Stoddard got these amazing vegetables from his brother-in-law’s farm. They were extras. He gave them to me!! Broccoli, cauliflower, onions, cucumbers, zucchini! I have been buying these exact veggies. Fresh from John! priceless! Such joy! Thanks John!
It is true, I feel like a truck hit me, but I am also overwhelmed with the service that continues to be given to me. I am filled with joy! How did I miss this before?