Thursday, June 18, 2009

Monday I saw Dr. F., my oncologist. He seemed very pleased with my progress. He has good instincts and prescribed 3 days of steroids, helping boost my energy level and my attitude. That afternoon, Judy and I went for my vitamin therapy. We missed having Merlene along, but hope she is enjoying Hawaii with her family. As usual, I learn something each step along the way. This time it was checking with my med changes with my internist.
Tuesday was Chemo day, and Sister Judy took me to and picked me up when I finally finished. It takes time to have your blood drawn, sent to the lab and then wait for the pharmacy to fix the Chemo bags. Fortunately, I had a book sister had loaned me about Southern belles and their manners and attitudes. While being humorous, it sheds good light on cultural differences here in the States. If we have problems understanding others, we need to look at their heritages and backgrounds.
This also gave me time to think about what I‘ll I do for my grandchildren this Christmas. I hope to write my on “Guidepost” stressing their roots and wings. I hope it sends them to assessing where they’ve been and where they might be heading.
Wednesday was another day of shot for me to warding off the drop in my white count. I’ll do this daily through Friday. Then errands: to my internist office to drop off a list of my present meds changes. He was not in, but had a good talk with his staff. He is from Iran, and had planned a trip, but cancelled because of the political situation. If he needs to see me, there is time next week. Next off to do a couple of errands – replacing wiper blades on my car and to the liquor store to find some wine for Leigh for Father’s Day. This is a good time to thank him for being such a good landlord. Still feeling fine, I was off to the church to drop off my UTO offering since they are collecting Sunday. I spent time visiting with Jackie. She had breast cancer twenty years ago, as a young mother- quite a struggle. I’m glad to have the benefit of those twenty years of learning --- and no little ones to care for. Jackie was blessed with good friends and church family for support; something we each need. Thank to you, my friends and family for your great support for me. It truly has been very good. Then I had a great talk with others in the church office – got a good people fix to carry me through my next isolation. All are welcome t visit The phone calls, emails and letters are a good boost, too.
One more thing, I forgot to mention; some of the women who work with Judy at the Women Club, her hospitality committee, sent me fresh fruit and kind notes with Judy, another act of kindness and support.