Tuesday, December 31, 2019

I FORGOT TO PUBLISH HEALTH UPDATE #5

Each time we open a new door, surprises greet us on the other side.  Having spoken with the oncologist, Tuesday morning, before Thanksgiving, we learned that stage one of my treatment plan has changed—again.  Friday, after our Thanksgiving feast, most of which will be prepared by my husband and sons, I’ll have the port inserted in readiness for chemo to begin on Monday, in-patient for five days, 24 hours a day.

In-patient because the intensity of the dosage of chemo is in need of constant  monitoring in hopes that my organ systems will withstand the stiff martini of medications, which will be shaken, not stirred.  (no emoji smiley faces, here).  In the aftermath of having absorbed an intensified five day round of chemo, I’ll be home for sixteen days to recover from side effects before being hospitalized for another intensive five-day round.  (First thing I did after hearing everything the oncologist had to say was to order a baseball cap attached to shoulder length, dark brown synthetic hair from Amazon.  Then, I wondered whether shimmers can be tied to strands of a synthetic wig.  Ultimately, my dear friend who shimmers me up suggested the old college try, and today, hat, hair and shimmers are getting along, just fine ...)

As to radiation and surgery, we’ve not yet received word concerning what to expect after my first two rounds of chemo except for the possibility that a third round may prove necessary.

Thank goodness, I  have lots to feel thankful for!  David is here; Barry and his crew flew in, last night, which was Ravi’s 5th b/d, so Will and I partied at dinner with Celina. Steven, Ravi, David and Ravi’s Nani, followed by Will and David making a two car airport run to retrieve Barry’s family while Ravi and I, having readied ourselves for bed, snuggled up while enjoying a live (recorded) production of The Little Mermaid on TV until our five year old b/d girl, arms flung above the velvety throw pillow which had gently cushioned her spun gold head of wavy hair,  repositioned  her slender, long legged body so as to sprawl out ever so comfortably on our living room couch, and nothing could entice her big blue eyes to remain open once the even cadence of my sweet grand daughter's breath signaled my awareness to glance away from the spectacular, musical performance so as to play witness to Ravi’s long lashed, fully spirited, big blue eyes closing only ten minutes before the garage door, opening, announced the arrival of Barry’s family, who, having flown from the west coast to land in the desert, were eager to join in the festivities, which will continue throughout the week, culminating with Ravi’s b/d party on Saturday.πŸŽ‚πŸ₯°

Tomorrow, after tonight’s ‘group’ sleepover, we plan to take Trent, Corey and Stessa to Target, where each one will choose a toy to bring to the local fire station where Toys For Tots are collected.  It’s become our annual tradition to enjoy ‘the gift of giving’ during the holidays with our grandchildren, who surprise the firemen with a chocolate cake that says THANK YOU FOR KEEPING US SAFE THROUGHOUT THE YEAR.  And with so much to look forward to and feel grateful for, imagine my spirit smiling while reflecting over my good fortune to enjoy every happy plan that lies immediately ahead with treasured family and friends.  As to our Thanksgiving feast, the turkey is flying in all tressed up, fully dressed and hot to trot from AJ’s market, while favorite recipes and ingredients are on the kitchen counters awaiting preparation in the capable hands of the trio of chefs who were homegrown, led by their father.  On Thanksgiving Day, the kitchen will be Marie’s domaine, as timing, concerning the readiness of each dish that completes our festive feast proves to be an organizational feat, over which Marie will assume complete command.😊

Each of my attempts to help is met with one loving voice or another reminding me to sit down, relax, and enjoy the week ahead, because ‘we got this’.  And I relish every memory of my family creating a very thankful Thanksgiving, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all. 

Will joins me in sending you our best wishes for a happy, healthy Thanksgiving, leading into a holiday season celebrated with loved ones from near and farπŸ’ƒπŸ»πŸ•ΊπŸΌ 
❤️🌈🌻Annie

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