Things here are progressing very nicely. On Tuesday, we’ll be entering week three of the second chemo treatment. This is a good thing as we’re now prepared for what happens and when after each treatment. Treatment week starts on Tuesday (the next one is on 4/30) with the chemo cocktail. It’s a long day. Wednesday is the immune system shot. On Thursday, things start going down hill; fatigue sets in, muscles, joints and bones ache. Friday and Saturday are the worst with things turning better on Sunday. As Monday rolls around, there’s still some fatigue but the aches and pains subside. Then, Tuesday is a day to get back into the ‘swing of things’. As a matter of fact, the patient might just play golf on Wednesday. Her friends are getting together for a session of ‘giggle golf’.
We have both learned a lot over the course of the past several months. In addition to this insidious disease, we have also learned a great deal about each other. Our love has strengthened and we’ve both demonstrated strengths we thought we had but until now hadn’t had to show them. I’m very proud of my wife; she’s got a great outlook and is fighting this thing every waking hour. For me, I’ve changed bandages and dressings and most recently, I’ve learned how to cut hair.
I don’t think I’ve told you but her hair is pretty much gone. It began two weeks ago Thursday and as it started falling out; it got ‘patchy’ so, out came the clippers and off came the hair. Never in a million years did I ever think I’d be giving my bride a ‘baldy sour’ haircut. I’m certain she didn’t think so either but we’re stronger and closer for it.
Yesterday, Mandy spent the day with friends from ‘the ranch’ in Ft. Worth at their annual arts festival.
No news is good news? Well, life here at the ranch is pretty much centered around retirement. With retirement comes aging and with aging comes aches, pains, and illnesses. A couple here at the ranch and longtime friends have also hit a proverbial bump in the road; he has been diagnosed with prostrate cancer. He started radiation therapy last Monday. Then on Wednesday, during her periodic physical, the Dr found a lump in one of his wife’s breasts. She’ll find what it is this coming Wednesday. Our prayers are with them both.
Oh, and Wednesday for me is a root canal; kind of insignificant when you Iook at the bigger picture.