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?