Update
It's been almost 2 months since I finished chemo. That seems impossible. I am doing well and slowly recovering from its effects on my body. I feel good. My overall strength is still in recovery, as evidenced by my attempt to bowl. Even the lightest ball I could find was a challenge to roll down the alley. Thankfully there was no shortage of having a good time with the family. The neuropathy in my fingers and feet is still a challenge - no change there. My energy is returning. I am back working at the Family History Center one night a week, and going to work on humanitarian projects every Wednesday morning. I just finished piecing a quilt for our grand baby due the end of December and I keep busy with humanitarian projects I bring home to work on. I enjoy riding my bike when the weather is warm enough and often find a short nap in the afternoon very refreshing.
Medically speaking there is also good news. My CT scan showed no evidence of cancer and my latest lab tests are all returning to normal. Such a nice word - normal! My oncologist has given the okay for us to proceed with mission plans as long as I stay in the USA and stay on schedule with my scans and labs.
Work on our new house is SLOWLY progressing. Estimated date of completion is now the end of April, but who knows. The subcontractors are all very busy and there seem to be delays at every turn. We live close and drive by often to check on the progress.
It seems that cancer is everywhere. I know so many people in various stages of dealing with it - physically and emotionally. A friend from my childhood days has been an amazing support and example for me, and I am so grateful. Her motto is, "Have I done any good in the world today?" I don't know what the future holds - no one does. But today is a good day so why not do some good? I'm not grateful for cancer, but I am for the lessons I've learned and the love and support I've felt from both heaven and earth.