Cancer Center Open House

Doug and I attended an open house at the Sky Ridge Cancer Center last night. They sent out invitations to tour the updated facility and see their new resource center, meet with the physicians, learn about recent advancements. It was beautifully catered, and was well-attended. We were particularly impressed in the fact that they resource center provides free wigs for those who need them, and they're very nice. We mingled with some other survivors. I was given the last pink scarf by a breast cancer clothing rep, I didn't go into details that I didn't have breast cancer, but a few minutes later I had a wonderful conversation with a lady who is a 5 year breast cancer survivor, so I took it off from around my neck and wrapped it around hers. She gave me a big hug, and we both teared up. It was a very nice time, especially going there under much better circumstances.

Follow-up Doctor's Appointment

I have my 3 month follow-up for blood work and to meet with Dr. Basche on Tues., February 2nd. I expect everything to be just fine, because I'm feeling wonderful! Doug will be in IL visiting his mom in the nursing home, so this will be the only doctor's appointment he will have missed during this entire ordeal. Wish me "good numbers" on Tuesday!

Yoga

Andrea came with me to my very first Yoga class. A year ago InnerConnections Yoga in town was kind enough to present me with 5 free classes to use when I beat cancer. So I guess it was time! It was easy, yet hard. I was certainly the least limber person in the class and I needed to use the block as not to have to bend as far. Catching myself in the wall-length mirror, I was pleased with my posture, and my balance most of the time, but had to occasional pull my shirt down so my road-map of scars on my stomach wouldn't show. At the very end of the hour-and-a-half class when we finished in a sort of prayer pose and saying “nahmesdae” (sp?) to each other, it hit me what I’d just accomplished. Andi saw tears puddled in my eyes as I rolled up my mat, and asked if I was okay. I was. I’m not sure when I’ll go back, but I do know I’m very glad I went today.

Happy, Healthy, New Year

It's 2010. Saying farewell to 2009 is bittersweet. It certainly was a year of struggles and challenges, but at the same time, recovery and blessings. Doug gave me a Christmas gift that took my breath away when I saw it, and made me cry. It was two boxes, both filled with thick stacks of paper - one was every entry on this blog, the other all the email correspondence from friends and family, and Doug's reply to them. He said it took months to do, and that there were a lot that I never did see. I just barely got through the first 10 pages or so, and needed to get a box of tissue. I can imagine when I start reading the blog again.

I wish everyone a happy, healthy new year, and once again thank you for the part you played in my life this past year and a half. With much love.