The Community of Cancer

"For each one who begins to weep, somewhere else another stops." - Samuel Beckett

Leading up to my second treatment, I had several days where I could say I felt normal. I wondered if that would ever occur and it is encouraging to know that the answer is YES.

But Treatment Two did come around. Today ends those 46 hours.

Walking in on Wednesday to Cancer Care in Starkville, MS felt comfortable. I saw faces that I had seen weeks before. Our routines must be the same. Some of those faces turned into women I had known when I lived in Columbus. Being the week before Thanksgiving, the treatment center had more going on than my last visit. I heard several announce that they were having their last treatment, as well as seeing those who were filling out paper work, which meant they were newbies.

All the recliners were filled and in walked Betty. I thought I recognized her, but wasn't sure. Since I was almost "dripped out" I insisted that she take my recliner and I could finish up in the "visitor's chair." Of course we started chatting and we remembered each other from Columbus. The conversation wasn't totally about our conditions, but I have found the community of cancer shares about the what, how and why of treatment.

It reminds me of my friend Mary Lou who has come through a double mastectomy and reconstruction surgery this year (which I am ashamed to say I had no idea, until she started reaching out to me when she heard my news.) She was giving me tips about taking the treatments and offered that they can be relaxing unless you happen to be by someone who wants to talk. OPPS!!! I am that someone!!! HA! I have tried to be mindful of what my neighbor would like to do...rest or rap...but I find it hard not to talk them up. And Kacy...I try not to get in their yard!!! HA

My sister-in-laws, Pat and Mary Ann were still my partners on Wednesday. I am trying to work out a schedule with others who have offered to drive me to give them a day off. They have been so supportive and have gone with me on each step of this journey.  I see others come by themselves, but I feel so groggy by the end of the day, I wonder how safe a driver I would be. But, I am becoming less anxious about the process.

On Thursday, I can go by myself to receive the bag of vitamins. Sherry is the nurse that is always there, often the only one. But with the influx of treatments, Kara was there also. They are wonderful. What a calling they have to work with this community of cancer. (picture of nurses)

I had asked on Wednesday if I came early, could they get me going so I could leave in time to get to Rain's school for Thanksgiving. Dr. Hill was to be there and I would see him for my first visit after starting chemo. They were so accommodating and I was able to complete meds and see Dr. Hill. And made it on time for Rain!!
(picture of Rain)

So here are my updates:
-After checking my blood, the nurse reported my platelets were lower, which she said was good because it meant it was working.
-I think the only medicine right now that is having an adverse effect on my is the steroid. My voice becomes weak, kinda shaky hands, and last night was awake from 2:00 am. I have heard similar stories from others in the community.
-Meeting with Dr. Hill I found out more news. When I had the PET scan I called back to his office and talked with a nurse about the results. I understood her to say that I had lymph nodes that were compromised with tumors. I asked Dr. Hill could we talk about the results so I would understand the implications of that report. When he opened the report, I immediately read LIVER LEFT LOBE. I said...so it is in my liver. He said yes that is why I am giving you that fourth drug. I told him that I had been told it was in lymph nodes, not liver. He suggested that I always talk to him...good suggestion. So, with that being reported, I had been praising God that it was not in my liver, but now am praising Him that it is not in my lymph nodes. That system is big!!! I asked about surgery, but he is of the opinion right now to believe the drugs I am taking could take care of it. I also asked about my upper body...nothing there as well as my lower due to there being nodes on my pelvic floor...nothing was there. PRAISES!! We will know more about the activity in my liver at the end of treatment when another PET will be ordered.

The community of cancer is very populated. I am so grateful for the doctors and nurses who work in the fight.

Please pray for:
Jessie who just found out he has a rare form of leukemia.
Baby Cole who just had three months of chemo, a tumor removed from his liver, and three more treatments to go.
My cousin's son, Cooper.
2 year old Ryan on his 78th day after bone marrow transplant.
Bro. Mickey - leukemia.
Betty - leukemia.
Charlie - Colon Cancer and having liver surgery in three months.
Kyle - for a good report.

"But thou, O Jehovah, art a shield around me; My glory and the lifter up of my head." Psalm 3:3