Whirlwind

I'm extremely sorry for the lack of updates, as we know summer comes and it's the 4th of July and the next day seems like Labor day.

My family and I just got back from a wonderful vacation at Ocean City. We had such a great time, great weather, and great family memories. I was able to get in the water a couple of days with Jon and a boogie board. I would have give anything to have just run in and dive through the waves. Maybe next year. I am blessed that I was even able to get into the water.

There hasn't been much new on my progression. I think the week off of pt was a much needed and welcoming break. I was able to just relax. I am sure tomorrow I will be feeling a little sore after today's session, but like I was told, hard work ain't easy.  I feel like my left foot has taken a step backwards and that is frustrating to me. Hopefully in the next few weeks it will be back on track.

I've come to the realization that cancer just completely sucks. It hits you when you least expect it to and knocks you down some pegs. I know I have been strong and positive throughout this chapter of life but when it flips back on you to be strong and positive for someone else, I get a whole new perspective. As much as I want to ask God why now, I know he has a plan. I am still unsure of how to be a shoulder to lean on and help others stay positive and dig deep to battle. I feel when I was diagnosed I just accepted it and kept battling. It's a choice, you either want to battle or you want to give up. How my parents raised me was not to give up or give in. When things were tough for me I just kept thinking of the poem about the footsteps with God. He carried me through the battle and I'm sure he's not done yet.

I don't want my pain and struggles to make me a victim.  I want my battle to make me someone else's hero.

My family  could use some prayers in the next few weeks. I appreciate all the support you all have given me because I know without it I would not be who I am today.

All things are difficult before they are easy!

Today at therapy we had our ups and down right hard work!  I told my PT he worked me today and he said, "Good, I did my job."  I was able to complete  walking 150 feet two times today!  Now I just need to continuously do it!  I was happy to achieve my goal; however, it tired me out.  We did some new exercises today standing, opposed to laying on the mat.  I feel like it was the hardest workout I ever did!  I had such a hard time being able to do anything that involved my hamstrings and calf muscles.  A lot of that is affected by the nerves that are clumped together in my lower back.  Hopefully, through the radiation that will shrink the tumors and release pressure off of my nerves.  I made myself fight through to complete the exercises but it was a struggle.

I made the decision to cut my hair short before I start to lose it and got an awesome bob from Samantha tonight.  It feels so light and healthy...I love it!  I feel like it will be an easier transition when the time comes.  Jon has never seen me with short hair before!  I will definitely miss long hair and being able to braid it...not that I could ever braid very well!

Tomorrow is a big day for us...I have a day pass!  We are able to leave the hospital for the day and do whatever we want.  We decided to stay closer just so I do not get too worn out and head to the Waterfront.  I'm excited to get a little shopping in...I haven't been anywhere since early December!!  I would even be happy going to the Dollar Store!  We are then going to head to Dave & Busters for dinner and games with the family.

Hope everyone has a safe and fun weekend!

Once again, thank you for your thoughts and prayers.  Every card I receive brings a smile to my face.  You all have a special place in my heart.

"It's hard to beat a person who never gives up" Babe Ruth 

 

 

 

 

One small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day!

Another great day at therapy!!!  Today I walked my furthest...140 feet!  It gives me such motivation for tomorrow and next week.  I absolutely hate needles, so shots & blood work are a big deal when I have to get them done.  I get a shot 3 times a day to prevent blood clots; however, when I am continuously walking 150 feet I will not have to receive the shots!  My leg exercises are getting better as well, Jon once again did not have to help me complete any of them.  I also increased the weight in dumbbells while working my upper body. 

The best part of therapy today was getting to play Wii.  There is an older gentleman here who was having a bad day and the OT crew wanted to cheer him up.  He enjoys bowling so we bowled together.  It gave me a lot to think about and appreciate.  I was able to stand and practice balance and moving my arms at the same time.  Unfortunately, he is in an electric chair, will probably not be able to stand again, and he had a hard time releasing the buttons on the controller.  We had fun together though, and said we will be Wii bowling buddies.  It's an amazing feeling to help bring smile to someone else who is having a bad day.  I may have cancer and it may have altered my life, but there is always someone else out there that is fighting a bigger battle.  Even if it was a simple game of bowling we shared together, I am glad he smiled, laughed and cheered when we both got strikes.

Radiation was a breeze today.  In order to keep my mind off the headrest & mask, I thought of my in-law's cottage and how I can't wait for this summer to be down there fishing.  I will have to let my father in law he needs a bigger boat to accommodate me now ;)  .  Just the thoughts of being in a quiet and relaxing atmosphere with my family was enough to make me be at ease, forget about the headrest and take a nap!  Before I knew it they were waking me up!  So far the only side effect I have is dry mouth.  Chewing gum has been doing the trick for now.  I will not be receiving any radiation over the weekends. 

"Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around." -Leo Buscaglia 
Jon and I both are deeply moved by all of your love and support.  Thank you doesn't even being to describe how we feel. 
 

"Today will never come again.  Be a blessing.  Be a friend.  Encourage someone.  Take time to care."