Since you are reading this, it means WE MADE IT! There were many times during 2018 I didn't think I would, or even that I had the strength to. But, here I am feeling pretty darn good. It's been a while since I wrote and I have been getting inquiries about my silence. I apologize for any angst caused, there are times i just don't want to share.. But I am here and well today. Celebrate with me the milestone of a new year. When I look back on the last three, I am amazed to be here. I didn't think I'd see 2000 when I was 6 years old and realized how very old I would be by then - will wonders never cease?
Over the summer, we had the victorian house painted 7 NEW colors which took every bit of good weather the summer had to offer. Reaching November and getting back to the wrap around porch, I realized I had NOT planted any daffodils! In a panic, I planted 20 in almost frozen ground hopefully anticipating Spring. It's not the same, but I am planning on buying potted forced ones next Spring if have to!
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| William with his First Birthday present(s) from Grannie! |
It is now two months since William's first birthday. Mostly, I have been getting stronger and have just signed up the LiveStrong program at the YMCA. It's a strength building and support program for Cancer patients - hopefully the regiment and camaraderie will keep me motivated during the cold winter months. I have been isolating myself more than I should and hope this will help.
John and I have concentrated pretty much on our own families and staying close to home. We have also enjoyed helping Sue and Tom taking care of Fifer - Their Golden Doodle, for which I consider Gracie as the catalyst for her adoption. She helps fulfill my need for a dog.
Ear troubles have continued to be a bother, both on the balance side but also hearing conversations. Hearing aids helped some, but between glasses and the wig, my ears outer ear is getting too much attention where my inner ear is where the problem is. I have also been dealing with the feeling of water in my inner ear that doesn't drain or go away. Just clicks from one side to the other. I believe this has affected by balance. The fear of falling has been huge. One question the doctors ask each time I go in is, "Have you fallen?" I don't want to have to say yes. Another question they have asked is about Migraine headaches - to which I have also have been able to respond negatively and wonder why they ask.
Last Friday it all broke out in a lot of pain to my head. Is this the Migraine that they were expecting ever since the brain radiation? I couldn't answer "NO" the next time I was asked. I had a PET scan appointment already scheduled and a I felt an MRI would be an important thing to have done as well - fearing the outcome but feeling the need to know. John was with me so I didn't want to tell the boys or anyone. John and I would hear the news and react as calmly as we could, when we had the facts. After the pet scan we went to oncology because i needed and unscheduled visit to my doctor. We got in and after much discussion an was ordered.... a tedious, fearful wait, then a 40 minute noisy MRI then back to oncology to wait. When the doctor came in, the look of doom that had been on her face wasn't there! Yes, serious, but not the brain issues we feared. I had an ear infection - more painful than ever as it had progressed - but heavy amoxicillin and other scripts and I am on the mend!! The ringing has subsided as have the "bubbles" in my ears
(like having water in your ears -which had been going on for months) has subsided. What a relief. And I am cleared on the PET SCAN and MRI.
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| A private romantic dinner on ourr first night. Only one table for two! |
Bring on the new year - and I will celebrate life each day! i encourage you to do the same. And stay in touch.
And to have YOU and YOUR interest in my staying alive and vibrant. Thank for taking the time to keep up. Drop me a line and let me know how YOU are doing. Friendship is a two way street.
Happy New Year,
Jan
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