Monday: I am sitting here in the infusion area of Mayo, waiting for what I thought was my last chemo to start. Right before I came in, I had a consult with Dr. E, my medical oncologist. He realized that I needed one more week of radiation (he set up my chemo orders before the radiation got set up, so he didn’t know my end date at the time). He ordered one more chemo for next week. Until that very second, I thought I was done with it today. So close. But I have come this far, so what’s one more. “But the sun comes up and the world still spins.”
Suzy already stole my thunder on how “well” I’m doing with her post a few days ago. The quotes are because “well” is relative. I’m still having lots of symptoms, and I’ll have long-term side effects. As I’ve aged, I’ve already reset what feeling good is. At 65, I have lots of aches and pains. That said, so far so good.
One of the side effects that is quite weird is neuropathy. Well, actually, all the side effects are quite weird. This morning, I was walking across the house soon after I woke up, when all of a sudden it felt like I stepped on a sharp rock. It hurt like hell. Every once in a while, it feels like I have pieces of glass between my toes. Luckily this feeling only last for 10 or 20 seconds, but it’s quite startling. Every time it happens, I look for the offending rock or piece of glass and of course, there’s nothing there.
Friday: I’ve met a few people during this marathon that have similar cancers to mine — kind, caring people with whom I hope to remain friends. There’s even a person in Portugal reading the blog and asking questions (remember, we’re in this club nobody wants to be in), and the blog has reconnected me with a number of folks I had drifted away from. Thanks everyone for your support. It means a lot.
I have to give a nod here to Suzy. She has hung in for this entire thing, supporting me, caring for me, loving me. I couldn’t have done it without her. Today, December 18th, is our 38th wedding anniversary. I’m so lucky to have her.
One more week. One more chemo. Four more radiation treatments. Then recovery. On September 25th, I was diagnosed and now the treatments are almost done. Wow! My eyes well up if I think about next Thursday too much, so I need to really just lock into today.
Cancer in the time of corona 
The countdown continues, but it seems time has passed quickly-at least for those of us in the peanut gallery.. Hugs and positive thoughts!
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So glad the end of the treatments is near but hard to have just a few more sprung on you. This blog is an amazing chronicle and glad to read that people all over the world are finding it. Such an honest journal helps many others going through something similar I am sure. Thank you for sharing the journey.
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Happy Anniversary to you!
Thank you so much for sharing your journey… the good, the bad & the ugly.
You both are in our prayers every night.
Missing AZ & the “ sewing girls”.
Sara & Bill
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Sir, I’m proud to call you my uncle. It’s been inspiring to read the blog, with all of the ups and downs, and it must be rewarding to know your story is helping someone across the ocean, among many others. Here’s to getting finished up and a speedy recovery. I love you and think about you every day–and Happy Anniversary to you and Aunt Suzy!
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Thanks Mike. Hopefully it will be a more cheerful story soon. Love you too.
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Hoping this week goes quickly.
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Thanks!
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Although your blog can be a tough read at times (I hate hearing about my loved ones struggling), I’m glad you are keeping us informed about your treatment! I’ve always looked up to you and Aunt Suzy and the love that exists in your marriage is apparent to me. Happy 38th anniversary!
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Thanks Cindy. Can’t wait to come to Tulsa and spend some time with you and Tony and the kids.
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