For support partners > Wins!
Yesterday was one of those scary days. Time for the PET Scan report. IT WAS A WIN!
The liver cancer is gone! We've been absolutely euphoric. There's still cancer elsewhere, but hopefully it can be managed. A friend once said, "Living with cancer is like being on a roller coaster ride." I now know what she means. Still there are WINS and a whole lot of thrills!!
Lynn Davidsn
Lynn,
Thank you for sharing with us.
Our Outpatient Oncology Social Worker, Karen Buckley, often uses the image of the roller coaster in our Cancer 101 events to help describe the emotions that come with a cancer diagnosis. Because of this we're proud to offer the different support and counseling options through our Chaplains, Hospice Team and of course, professional counselors. If you or anyone you know would like to learn more about these services I hope you'll e-mail us at provcancer(at)providence.org.
Providence Regional Cancer System
Thank you Lynn for posting. I read the blogs but I do not post as often as I could. I like your WINs. My husband and me also treasure our "moments". They do not come as often lately, but I am trying so hard to stay strong. Inside I am very scared but very few people would know this as I do not let on. I have been doing more for myself and that in turn gives me the energy to be there for Pete. I like your outlook regarding the "C" word and enjoy reading of your journey through it!
Susan
The last couple of weeks have been a little bumpy. No. A lot bumpy. Jim has complications - an intestinal blockage. A doc in Seattle was able to place a stent in Jim's intestine. We were very happy about that. Then came the BUT ... the stent didn't open completly and Jim spent a week in the hospital. He's been home now for about two weeks and still has a lot of discomfort. A team of drs. is looking at possible solutions. Those range from balloon dialation to surgery and an ostomy. Jim still keeps a positive outlook and that helps me. Sometimes, though I feel really frustrated. I just want some time away from hospitals and drs., time for ourselves, to play and have fun, or just enjoy. We try to do that as often as we can. I shouldn't complain. I'm so blessed. God bless you and Pete, Susan. It's a journey we're on together.
Lynn
Thirteen weeks ago Jim began 12 weeks of chemo. He completed the chemo pretty well. He has several health issues that impacted his treatment. He did well. We'll count that as a WIN! We go for WINS.
Today he had a PET Scan to determine how effective the chemo was against the liver cancer.
We've been told he'll never be cancer free. We're working on keeping it managed. That would be another WIN!
Today spring was threatening the stray gray clouds with glimpses of sunshine. It made me think back to spring times past, when we didn't live with cancer, when each day was filled with making plans – for vacation, home projects, reunions … now each day is truly sufficient unto itself. We look to see what appointment is set for today or how does Jim feel, how's his stamina, how much can he do? Is a Costco run too much?
Living with cancer in a way has made our lives much richer. We don't take our days for granted, the way we used to do. We cherish each day and celebrate the smallest things – together. Our lives have been filled with people devoted to caring and healing. I never knew such people – before cancer. Our lives have been made richer by people who are sharing the same journey.
Yes. All those years ago, were fine and wonderful – but, maybe today is much richer! That's a WIN!