Beauty in the Ordinary

This is not about being brilliant, or extraordinary, it's not about wanting to be famous, or making headlines, or trying to impress...this about sharing a 'gift' each day with the world...to lift the spirit of people when they read this blog, to show them the beauty in the ordinary.
"And above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don't believe in magic will never find it." Raold Dahl

Thursday, October 25, 2012

And Here We Are...

Two more radiation sessions to go.

It's been a long trek and there is still quite a bit of traveling to complete on this journey, but I wanted to take the time to say Thank You.



To Jeffery...for loaning us your flat to stay in while Rudy was in treatment.  I'd say you'll never understand quite how wonderful it was to be able to be private and together during this time; but having walked this very path yourself not so long ago, I'm sure you do; and perhaps that was part of the reason you were so insistent that we stay here. I will forever refer to 16 Rosedale Road as the most luxurious hospital room we have every stayed in. 

To Lindsay...for being a great kid and doing your very best to take care of your dad during the times I wasn't there with him.  I know your schedule is manic, and you feel a little guilty that you couldn't be with him more often, but honey what you did do was full of love and caring and he knew that and it made all the difference in the world.

To Jessica...for coming from Miami to see your dad, and to Nelson for being part of the decision.  It's how the small, loving actions pile up that help us all to feel safe and lets the healing in.  You know your dad isn't big on conversation, but I could see in his face, in the softening of the stress lines around his eyes, how much good us all being able to just hang out that long weekend did for him.

To my sister Victoria...a constant in my life...for listening to me when I ranted, when I felt sorry for myself, when I was full of anger and hate.  For being your tender, funny self and helping me to put it all back into perspective.

To our friends who fed us and spent time with us...especially my caring neighbours Laurie and John, who kept a very close eye on me and fed me when I was at home alone.  It all makes a difference, a huge difference, every small gesture, every smile, hand-squeeze, knock on the door, hug-before-you-leave.  I hope all of you never, ever have to experience just how much of a difference.

To the professionals at Princess Margaret Hospital - without exception you all behaved with the utmost professionalism and compassionate caring.  I hope we never have need of your services again.



This journey is far from over.  Another 6 to 8 weeks of latent radiation effects; two and a half more years of drugs; and then the long slow climb of a year to a year and a half back to wellness.  
And the watchful waiting, the holding of our breath, will begin in December - the first PSA test (repeated thereafter every three months) to make sure there is no lingering activity.

Cancer isn't moving out of our house anytime soon, but the eviction notice has been served.


Do you hear me up there?

26 comments:

  1. J, my thoughts and prayers are with you both - it's a long road, but friends are so precious in times like these.

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  2. You couldn't be more correct Molly - and stupid me, I should have included everyone in blogland...I know all the good thoughts and prayers have helped enormously too.

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    1. Thank you sweet man. How's things on the farm? I've heard tell things are a little hostile there at the moment!

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    1. I feel them flowing this way Vanessa - thank you darling girl!

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  4. Continuing to hold you both in the Radiant Glory, Infinite Spaciousness, Abundance and Love, and the Blissful Peace of Your Own True Selves. Blessings to you both!

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    1. HA--thank you, thank you...every blessing is a tip-toe towards healing.

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  5. another prayer going up..good news to hear so far <3

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    1. OGM - so far so good. Keep 'em coming! Thanks Darling

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  6. Hello Jacqueline

    Thank you for sharing your news and your gratitude is to be admired.

    Continued prayers for you.

    Helenxx

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    1. At the end of the day Helen - gratitude is all we have. Thank you for the prayers - I am eternally grateful for each and every one.

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  7. Prayers and a big hug from New Zealand.

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  8. Thanks SH...another step forward!

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  9. Prières , Amour et Confiance ♥♥

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  10. Merci beaucoup Jacotte...if I understand correctly, Love and Trust through prayer?

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    Replies
    1. Désolée,je suis française,je ne parle pas trop l'anglais..mais oui c'est un peu ça...

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    2. De rien jacotte...je compris votre coeur.

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  11. . . . turning another corner Sis, along this bumpy road called life. We travel it together always. Love you so much.

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  12. Hi there, I stopped by your blog while browsing through Cro's and this is the first post I read here. It really touched me, because my husband went through surgery and chemotherapy this year. It was the most difficult year of my life, but friends and family made an extraordinary difference with their kindness. I know just how you feel!

    I am sending you the very best wishes for health and happiness from the USA! :)

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  13. Thank you Jennifer...I hope hubby is doing well. We are focused on CURE!

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  14. Continued blessings and Bear hugs for both of you. You're coming to the end of the beginning, fortunately. But, as you recognize, it ain't over til it's over (as Yogi put it).

    I hope when you both get home, you will have a truly peaceful time! And let the winter blanket you with its under-snow warmth.

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  15. Well put Rob-bear...the end of the beginning, but it's a step forward. And I love the image of winter surrounding the two of us and holding us close for this period of healing.

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  16. My husband is doing great! And that's after a pneumonectomy (they removed his left lung) and then "preventative" chemotherapy after. He still has some weird side effects from the chemo, like numb feet (six months later!) but otherwise he has recovered wonderfully. We walk 2-3 miles every day, he's back at work, and life is good. We will never take ordinary life for granted again! That's the only good thing about fighting cancer. And like you, we're in it to win it!!!!!!! Best of luck to you and your family!

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    Replies
    1. Thanks Jennifer - it's wonderful to hear a success story - stay well!

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