Enjoying the Present

Many of you have seen my mother during the past few weeks. She is truly enjoying visiting and hearing from you. For those of you who are far away and yet close is spirit, I thought I'd post this picture. My mom took it with her phone and sent it to us kids. She's wearing a green hat made by Mary Beth's mother-in-law's friend. She loves it because it keeps her head warm!

This week, she graduated to sometimes using a cane. Her physical therapist is pleased with her progress and tomorrow will be the last day for physical therapy. She is doing amazing.

Monday starts the next round of chemo so next week will be a little rougher. As we were told, days 3-5 seem to be the hardest on my mom. Chemo weeks, she gets a little discouraged because she doesn't feel as well but overall her spirits are good and she keeps working towards her goal. As always, she says to tell you, "Thanks!"

Looking Up!

This is my very first post. I wanted to tell you all that I went to the doctor today and he said that things were looking good. The fluid around my left lung has cleared and the fluid around the right lung has decreased. Looks like the chemotherapy is doing its job. I am looking forward to going to a graduation party this weekend for some of my nieces. With oxygen in tow, I'm looking forward to getting out for some fun. Thanks for the love, support, and prayers, it means so very much to me. I have all my beautiful cards and childrens' artwork hanging up where I can see them. Hope all of you have a wonderful Memorial Day and bless you all.

Bald is Beautiful

Today my mom went in for the second chemo treatment. She was a little nervous because she doesn't even remember the first treatment and because the last time she went in for a test she ended up in the hospital for two weeks. She did wonderfully! She has a new oxygen system that is light enough for her to carry and she moves so much better. She chose a chair where she could look out at the snow capped mountains, watch the clouds move through the sky, and she relaxed into the hours of treatment.

The people in the chemo room were some of the most positive people I've met in a long time. The other patients and families reached out to my mom, the new member of their group, and showed her tricks to walking with the IV pole, warned her to always dress in layers, taught her how to work the chair, and generally just stopped by to visit. They were an amazing group and very inspirational. I've always known it but cancer does strike at random, from the young mother who was getting her introductory tour carrying her bag covered with pictures of her kids, to the biker in his leathers with a heart warming smile. My mom sat among this group and looked beautiful in her black shirt, white pants with black pin stripes, her purple hat and her very own smile. She was dressed to impress. She is an amazing woman!