January comes and Goes

Since the new year began,  I have been feeling unbelievably better. I hope I do't jinx this, but that is the truth. I am eating pretty normally, sleeping pretty well,  and have begun a "live Strong" exercise program at the local Y.  They put together  a group of 9 people and we meet twice a week.  It is a hoot as it a very diverse group!  I feel I am getting stronger.   - Although we are taking care of a  friend's Black Lab who has me Beat.    Chopin !!   for those of you who remember Beethoven!



I was fortunate to spend five days in Steamboat visiting with Tyler, Jamie and Karen Harrison and Walter Freedman.  Nostalgia ran through me as I remembered all the great family times we were lucky enough to share.   The divergent paths we follow and ho w important it is (at least to me) to pause and reflect - and realize how much i have to be grateful for-and each new day is a gift to cherish.

 On the medical front we have some logistical decisions to make.  My Oncologist Dr. Rathmann, is leaving his practice.  of . course this is distressing because together we have been quite successful!   I will miss him.  We meet next week for the last time and will discuss my next moves.   Hartford is 30 minutes away and Springfield has reportedly equally as good Docs...  but...  My next move for treatment might very well be out of Boston,  Mass General.  Boston is even farther than Springfield.  It's time to gather information and make the decision.  I can only hope it goes smoothly.  It is a little anxiety provoking.

I am looking forward to another weekend with John (brother) and Rin.  Our destination is Pittsburg!  Haven't been there for a while and Dr. John has never - we will no doubt be well fed and amused.

I am getting to spend a couple of mornings each week with William and watch his incredible progress -  It's probably not so incredible to those of you who have Grand children,  but as this is my only one,  each day is a miracle with new discoveries.  How can I help but be Happy!

Thanks for thinking about me and taking the time to read this.  I hope to be a more regular blogger, but it's wonderful to report there is nothing but joy to report!!

Happy new year to us all - as it seems to be speeding by.

Jan

Happy New Year

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!

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.

Between ear and stomach issues which were the downsides of the last two months,  John and I have been able to steal precious moments enjoying the many blessings of family as well as of having each other.  In November we had an amazing trip to Costa Rica.   Very relaxing - we staid in the Rain Forest . Nayara Resort and didn't venture too far.  Beautiful and perfect for what we were looking for.  I still pinch myself to realize how lucky I am to have him in my life.

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