Rebecca's Wedding

Pictured here are: Rebecca with her dad, Bruce, walking down the aisle; Rebecca and John following the ceremony; Bruce, Debbie, John, Rebecca, Eileen and Darrell.

Throughout this journey I held up one milestone as a must-attend event in my mind -- the wedding of our niece Rebecca. The fact that it fell immediately after my last chemo has been somewhat symbolic for me, so it was with a very light heart that we made the seven-hour round trip to Rob's parents' this weekend to attend the event.

The weather all week was unsettled, to say the least. We've experienced torrential rains, thunderstorms, and the sun was nowhere to be seen -- until Friday when when it made a brief appearance. Even Saturday morning showers threatened the outdoor event, but the rain held off and the sun made another brief appearance and the ceremony itself was sunny and hot.

The wedding ceremony took place in the gardens of the home where Rebecca grew up. The new owners have created the type of landscape you expect to see in a magazine -- complete with meandering paths, hidden seats, statuary and water features. The back of the yard has a flat open area where the chairs were placed and the bride and groom had a backdrop of lush trees behind them. The music was violin and a friend of the couple sang during the ceremony.

The reception was held at the local Heritage Society building and featured a buffet of cheesecakes. Only Rebecca's brother Paul was missing; he's overseas with the military, but he sent an email which Andrew read at the reception. Both Rebecca and John became quite emotional when thanking their respective families for making this a special day.

That evening Rob's sister Diane and her husband and son (Richard and Ryan) came out to the house to visit for awhile. It was really nice to have a chance to visit with family both at the wedding and afterwards. Often we don't get to see the nieces and nephews because they're all grown up and living their own lives, many of them in other parts of the country. It was really nice to spend time with Isaac and Leanne (Debbie's second-oldest son and his partner), who we haven't seen in several years.

We left mid-morning on Sunday. I had an appointment with the VON at home and was already starting to ache a little when we left Rob's parents. Based on my previous experience, I knew even with the Celebrex, Sunday and Monday were going to be uncomfortable -- which they were. I think the drive, the heat and not sleeping well all combined to make me quite achy yesterday.

The whole VON experience has been frustrating. When the nurse arrived Sunday she discovered the dosage info was missing from the paperwork (it was on the box with the vials) and because it was Sunday, there was no way to obtain it. Despite a flurry of phone calls back and forth with her office, the end result was I was not able to receive my first injection on Sunday as prescribed. The nurses have reams of paperwork to fill out at the patient's home, and they aren't issued cell phones so they have to use the client's phone to contact the next client. Not that using our phone was a problem, it just seems inefficient.

When the nurse left she assured me I would be flagged for the next morning and a nurse would come out as soon as the dosage was faxed to the office. I left a message with the Cancer Center explaining what had happened and my oncology nurse contacted me Monday morning to say she would get the information to them. The VON didn't arrive until 4:30. I finally received my needle, but it was more than 24 hours late.

I also broke a tooth on the weekend. This too poses a challenge; I have to see when I can get into the dentist, and he then has to confer with my oncologist to discuss treatment and minimizing the risk of infection etc. I'm not supposed to have any dental work done during my treatment.

Finally, I'll wrap up this post by saying I received a card/bookmark in the mail from Kathy E. Kathy's ears were probably burning over the weekend because I was asking Richard and Diane all about her. I hope we'll get a chance to meet on a visit later in the year.

Ring the Bell -- Last Chemo Done!

The Hero's Journey eventually leads to the inmost cave where he vanquishes the bad guy, grabs the elixir and returns home to share all his secrets. I'm not quite there yet, but today marks a huge milestone in my treatment -- the end of chemotherapy!

I wasn't alone either. Four other patients wrapped up their chemo regimens today as well. When a patient finishes treatment, they are allowed -- no, encouraged -- by the nurses to ring a bell in the chemo ward and share the good news with everyone there. The remaining patients cheer and clap for those who are moving on to their next phase. This was the first time I had witnessed this joyful tradition and I was kind of jazzed to take part in it myself. The nurses were wonderful, hugging each of the bell-ringers in turn and telling us the next time they see us it had better be somewhere other than the hospital.

We stopped on the way home for ice cream to celebrate the momentous occasion.

But before leaving the hospital I picked up the medication to boost my white blood cells. Today's chemo nurse told me to expect aches in the major joints and the long bones of my legs because the marrow will be working extra hard to create new cells rapidly, and it can't get them into my blood stream quickly enough so it feels like there isn't enough room for all the cells. I've been told to take extra strength Tylenol every four hours and Advil if I need something more. I start the injections on Sunday, with the VON coming out to help with at least the first one.

Meanwhile, the mailbox has been busy. I received cards from Diane and Richard, Debbie B (Rob's former sister-in-law) and Lisa. Lisa's card included a token to help focus my energy on healing. Thank you also to all who have left notes on my Facebook page and/or emailed me. I believe the ongoing support I've received has made this part of my journey bearable. The road is still long, but I feel strong and ready to take on the next phase with everyone behind me.

This weekend is Rebecca's wedding and we'll be hitting the road tomorrow afternoon and spending two nights with Rob's parents. We haven't been there since March when we spent one night with his mother and visited his dad in hospital. They don't have Internet access so there won't be any updates until Sunday night or Monday (depending on how I'm feeling post chemo).

It is Official -- I am a Mutant

The Hero can often identify those days which mark a change in his journey, or somehow impact the direction of his future. Today was one of those days. Today was the day I got the results of the genetic testing, and it is official, I carry the BRCA1 mutation.

Really, it would have been a surprise to learn I didn't carry the BRCA1 mutation. Having it confirmed by my genetic counsellor today answers a lot of questions -- why does a 40-year-old woman with no family history of breast cancer have this disease? Why does her cancer not fall into the normal expected parameters? Now we know I do have the mutation and we can make decisions based on sound medical data. According to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation women who carry a mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene have a 50 to 85 per cent risk of developing breast cancer.

What this means for me, is instead of having only the affected breast surgically removed, I will have what is known as a prophylactic mastectomy, the removal of my unaffected breast to reduce the risk of developing another tumor. The genetics counsellor is also going to set up a consultation with a gynecological oncologist to discuss the possibility of having my ovaries removed, as women who have the BRCA1 mutation also have an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer, which, unlike breast cancer, is difficult to detect. Having had cancer once, I'm not keen on having it a second time and will consider all my options to lower potential risks.

Today was also my last pre-chemo blood work and check-up. My doctor is very pleased with the way the tumors have responded to chemo. The drop in my white blood cell count and subsequent hospitalization last week means I will be adding a new drug to my regime this time around. I'll need to take medication by injection for seven days to stimulate blood cell growth. My nurse has arranged for the VON to come in and give me the injections and, if I'm comfortable with it, to teach me how to give myself the shot. We'll see.

Today we also talked more about the next phase of treatment -- surgery. We talked about the timing of reconstruction...during my mastectomy or after radiation. Having both done at once complicates both the surgery and the scheduling because it must fit the schedule of the plastic surgeon too. I want to have the surgery done as soon as possible and my oncologist also feels sooner is better than waiting what could be months -- from both a physical and an emotional standpoint. So she'll be in touch with my surgeon again and we'll get it scheduled. Ideally they like to do it about four weeks following the final chemo treatment.

This was my last appointment with my oncologist until a follow-up appointment in November. I've kind of gotten used to the routine and was a little out of sorts leaving the clinic today. I'm sure this feeling will pass quickly, but everyone takes comfort in their routines -- even the unpleasant ones.

On a brighter note, today's mail had a card from Aunt Lori and Uncle Bob.

Chemo Countdown

This is it, the final week of chemo. I'm mostly over my annoying cold, although I find I still have a cough which kicks up in the evening, usually around bedtime. Tomorrow is my regular check-up, as well as my appointment with my genetics counsellor.

This weekend we kept pretty busy in spite of the rain. On Saturday we went to the mall and did a little shopping, then we came home and played Scrabble and Wii. On Sunday Rob and I visited Wally, Jen and kids at their home. In addition to celebrating Father's Day they were celebrating Jen's birthday too. Jen and Wally both loaned me a couple of books because my stash was getting low.

Today Kelly and I went shopping so I could find something to wear for Reba's wedding on the weekend. Her sisters Deanna and Andrea were also with us for awhile and all of us had lunch together. I finally found something summery and around the price I was willing to pay. I never did find shoes, but I have a pair here I think will be okay. After trying on numerous hats we found one that fits and complements the outfit. Either I have a really small head, or hats are made to be worn with hair. It took trying on a lot of hats to find one that fit well. I think I'll look for a bit of ribbon to fasten to it as it is a little plain right now.

I have received several cards since I last posted. Deb B, the local Contract management team, Ilene W. and Trudy have all sent greetings to cheer me on.

I can't begin to express how excited I am that I'm facing my last chemo treatment. I've heard from other people how they endured 60 plus treatments and I'm amazed. But you do you what you have to do when you are faced with adversity. Let's face it, the alternative isn't one most of us are quite ready to face.

Relay for Life a Moving Experience

Guest Blog by Kelly Brant

Henry Longfellow said, “The best thing one can do when it's raining is to let it rain.”

The Hero’s Journey team took Longfellow’s words to heart this past weekend as we took part in the annual Relay for Life. We came together to walk for 12 hours through the night in honour and in memory of our friends and family touched by cancer. The rain started early on Friday and stayed with us until about 9 p.m., as a result the field was soaked, as were we, but that didn’t stop us.

Anyone who says sunshine brings happiness has never watched Dana dance in the rain. For those who know her, you know she brings an energy that very few can match and which touches everyone around her. We didn’t need umbrellas, we had Dana.

Susanne came out to the Relay for the Survivor’s reception; however, because of her cold and the rain she wasn’t able to stay for long. We missed her but understood that standing around wet was not the best thing for her.

St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church, across the street from where the Relay is held, opened its doors for the night and served snacks and drinks to the participants and provided entertainment in the form of Bingo. Robyn, Marion and I took advantage of a dry place to sit and came away with a few prizes.

The highlight of the event is the luminary ceremony which was beautiful and moving. The track is lined with white paper bags each with a candle nestled inside. When they are lit, light encircles the field and participants celebrate the lives of those who have beaten cancer and mourn the loss of those who didn’t. It proves you can find light in even the darkest moments.

The lighting of the luminaries is very moving and it became overwhelming for my sister, so she, Marion and I walked a few laps around the track. While walking, I noticed many people bowed in prayer; others hugging one another in comfort. The tears were countless and love was tangible. We witnessed a father holding his young daughter while lighting a luminary which simply read, “In memory of Mom”. Another team was gathered around their luminaries with hands held and heads bowed.

In spite of the rain it was a successful event. The local Staples center had four teams participating in different relays throughout the city and as a whole raised $8014.55 for the Canadian Cancer Society.

On the Mend

So the Hero is often faced with setbacks. I'm told it helps build character; I personally think it is just irritating. My brief hospital stay is already well and truly behind me and my doctor called today to say my last blood test came back clear so I don't need to continue the antibiotics. I still have one more dose of potassium to take. Overall I'm feeling much better. My cough has almost disappeared and although I tire easily I feel like I'm finally on the mend.

Today I went shopping for something to wear to Rebecca's wedding next weekend. With everything that's been going on I have gained some weight so I found it hard to find anything which fit properly. I did finally pick up a pair of pants and a top, but I may take another pass before my next chemo session because I'm not completely happy with my selection. I think Kelly may be able to shop with me on Monday and provide a fresh eye.

I haven't yet included anything about the Relay for Life on my blog. I have a friend putting something together. Rob and I did go, although it was raining in Lower Sackville so we didn't stay for much beyond the Survivors' Lap. It's an emotional event, especially in light of what we've been going through this year. We unfortunately didn't stay to walk or for the luminaries because of the weather. Hopefully next year will be better and we'll take in the whole event.

Speaking of the Relay, I received a postcard from Kathy E. today, who walked the Survivors' Lap in Digby with her brother (he has survived colon cancer). "The lighting of the luminaries was so spectacular," she writes, "and emotional as always. I had a luminary there for you." I've heard there were actually several luminaries lit for me at a couple of different events and I thank everyone for such a strong symbol as the light in the darkness.

Also in the mail was a card from Wally, Jen and the kids. Everyone signed it and Ryan included a drawing for me. I also received a package from Mom. Bonnie M had given her a bracelet to send to me. It looks like it was made for the CIBC as a fundraiser item and is a large-link bracelet featuring a heart and a cancer ribbon with an embedded pink stone. It is a lovely piece and will be fun to wear. Thank you Bonnie. Earlier this week I received a card from Deb G., a colleague at the local office. In all the excitement of getting out of the hospital I think I neglected to mention it earlier.

Last night I had a phone call from my Dad's cousin Linda. I had written her recently to let her know about the cancer and the genetic testing and to inquire if there was any cancer on that side of the family. There apparently is and her sister-in-law Claire has been documenting it and is going to send me the information. It will help create a better picture for everyone. Once I have the genetic testing results I'll send a copy out to her. As near as I can piece together, Linda's mother and Dad's father were siblings. Linda mentioned at least a couple of cases of breast cancer and those women may want to have the genetic testing.

I took Cole for a brief walk this afternoon. Tess doesn't care if she walks or not, but he is exhibiting signs of cabin fever. Tomorrow's weather is looking good, so I'll have to try to get him out again, at least for a quick circle around the block.

There's No Place Like Home

Home again. My white blood cell count has rebounded quickly with today's reading of 1,800 and my doctors freed me this afternoon, but not without sending me home with two types of antibiotics and some potassium supplements. I'm quite happy to be home.

I was transferred to the VG yesterday morning (you can't believe how happy I was to leave the emergency department, wonderful staff but a real mixed-bag of patients). I was transferred between hospitals in the patient transfer ambulance and set up in a room on one of the oncology floors by noon on Sunday.

The staff got me settled into a bed, one which I'm happy to say was adjustable and wide enough to lie on without fear of accidentally rolling off. They started up my IVs again of fluids and antibiotics. I'm not sure (I admit I lost count) but I believe I've had six bags of antibiotics, maybe seven, fed into my veins since I entered the emergency room on Saturday.

Kelly came over shortly after I was settled in and brought me a book, left her deck of cards and ran to the cafeteria to get me a bagel and a coffee instead of letting me eat the solid scrambled eggs and diced carrots which were being served for lunch.

Rob came by with more goodies including my PJs, a book and three presents from my Joy Box. As he so astutely asked, "when do you need joy more than when you're in the hospital?" Pretty good point. The presents included a package of note paper, an address book and note pad, hand cream and green tea. He also got me a puzzle book from the gift shop to help keep me occupied after he left for the evening.

My sides are sore from coughing so much over the last few days. The cough got worse in there because the air is so dry, and doctors don't like suppressing coughs because this can mask other issues.

The staff at the VG was awesome. Last night the nurse brought towels and basins of water around. When I explained I had been warned by Cancer Center staff to not even splash hospital water on my face, she took it away and refilled it with sterile water she heated in the microwave. Then she washed my back and put lotion on it for me. After having been in the ER for almost 24 hours it felt almost decadent. I certainly slept better than the night before, but my cough did keep waking me and I ended up reading for an hour in the middle of the night.

This morning my oncologist was around visiting bright and early. She was very pleased with how quickly my counts were rebounding. She did indicate I'll have to take injections of something after my next chemo treatment to ensure my white blood cell count doesn't drop as far again. I told her I was meeting with the genetics team next week prior to my appointment with her and she was very excited about that piece of news. Then Dr. Younis (my doctor's supervisor) also checked me out. It was the first time since the initial consultation in February that I'd seen him. He seemed very pleased with how well the tumors have responded to chemo.

Now I'm home and ready to curl up on the couch with my pups and nap a little. Thank you everyone for your ongoing support and prayers.

Watch for an upcoming special guest blog this week about the Relay for Life.

A Bump in the Road...

Hi all. Rob here.

First the bad news -- Sue's in the hospital. The good news is she's fine.

As you've read, she's been suffering from a cold this past week, and started running a fever as well. When it hit the magic 38 degrees Friday we called the Cancer Centre, and the oncologist on call told her she was OK unless it rose and stayed above 38.4. Yesterday morning, after several readings in a row above that, we called again and they told us to go to Emergency.

When we got there they ushered us right into a little sitting room by ourselves and Sue had to wear a surgical mask. They obviously take this stuff very seriously. They took blood and urine samples and gave her a chest x-ray and we waited. And waited. Then they moved us to an actual room with a bed and we waited some more. Read every People magazine published from 2005-2008. Turns out her neutrophil count -- the white blood cells that fight infections -- was 228. In a healthy person it's over 2000, and anything under 500 is cause for concern. That her count would be low on day nine after chemo is normal, but not that low. They gave her two rounds of intravenous antibiotics while I was there.

Our wonderful neighbour Rhonda let the dogs out early in the evening and I came home around 3am when it seemed pretty clear Sue was staying at the Infirmary for the night. She just called and said they moved her to the old VG site this morning. She saw a resident and had a sinus x-ray, more blood work, and more antibiotics. A nurse told her they like to keep people for at least 48 hours in cases like this, so she'll probably be there for at least one more night. Hopefully she'll be able to come home sometime tomorrow. Kelly's in there with Sue now, and I'll head in a bit later with some PJs and a good book to help her pass the time.

That's the update. With any luck she'll be home to give you the next one!

Summer Colds

Summer colds are the worst. You want to take advantage of the warmer weather (whoops, it's been raining here the last two days), you want to enjoy the sunshine and shake off the last remnants of winter. Then along comes the summer cold. Stuffy noses, congested chests and a nagging cough. I have cancer, I should be exempt from the cold. I should be given a pass..."here, head to the no-cold-this-year section..." Apparently someone forgot to put in the paperwork.

Having a cold and cancer really changes your perspective. I called my oncology nurse yesterday...my first words..."I don't want to sound like a hypochondriac, but I think I have a cold." I wasn't sure what I could or couldn't take to get relief from the symptoms, because I don't want it to get worse. Remember the magic number...38C. I've started taking my temperature every time I walk into the bathroom. The cool little digital thermometer remembers the last reading and flashes it to you before you take the next one. The nurse advised me to take cough medicine and over-the-counter cold medicine but to read the ingredients. If it has ASA I can't take it, if it has acetaminophen I have to watch my temperature because one of its properties is it masks a fever; fever indicates infection and I'm almost to the point where my white blood cells won't fight infection, so I really need to know if I'm running a temperature (and need to go to the hospital).

The mail has been busy the past few days. I received a card from my Aunt Pat, one from the Colorado team and one from the upper management team (this includes the various center managers, different department heads, directors and the VP of NAD). These people look at weighty issues like improving sales, improving processes, training, customer retention, etc., and they took the time to sign a card among their other tasks at this meeting. I also opened a present from my Joy Box. This time it was a bottle of sunless tanner, because even though I'm supposed to avoid the sun, nothing says I can't have the healthy glow of a tan. Thanks again Debbie; your box of surprises has held out well. I also got an e-card from Dorothy who admonished me to think of myself as a fluffy sheep instead of a toad. Dorothy can always be counted on for her wisdom.

Tomorrow is the Relay for Life and I'm looking forward to seeing everyone and taking part. Here's hoping my cold goes away overnight along with the clouds and rain.

My Life as a Toad

The Hero doesn't always have fun. Sure there is the thrill of the chase, the feeling that he's pitching a battle against evil, but there's also the day the wizard hits him with a fireball and he turns into a toad. For the last two days I felt and somewhat resembled a toad, or someone dressed in one of Hollywood's fat suits. Fortunately I'm feeling more like myself today and good enough to whine about it.

In addition to tolerable aches and pains, I have been bloated like a common frog and looked like I was in mid-croak. My neck was swollen, my face and my hands -- I was like a giant puffball. I know fluid retention is listed as a side-effect of one of the drugs...but this is just silly.

In addition I was running a low-grade fever yesterday, which meant I was constantly monitoring it to make sure it didn't reach the magic 38C. That's the point at which have to call the Cancer Center and possibly go to emergency because it means I may have an infection. It's more worrisome 10 to 14 days after treatment because that's when my white blood cells are at their lowest and can't fight infection effectively.

The Celebrex did its job, more or less. Overall the aches were tolerable, although I was still aching yesterday. Today is much better and I've been outdoors already to pick my spinach, which is bolting in the heat.

I did go out for a drive with Rob yesterday. He had to go across the city on a work errand. We stopped for ice cream (which never fails to improve my mood). We also stopped for mail on the way back and there were cards from Aunt Al, Aunt Myrtle and from Beth, Linda, Debbie and Eileen from the local office.

This weekend coming is the Relay for Life and the office has two teams entered. I received an email yesterday indicating the teams have raised $3,075 for the event. I hope everyone is proud of their accomplishment. I'm planning on going for part of the evening, but don't think I'll have the wherewithal to stay for the entire event, at least not this year. I'm looking forward to seeing my colleagues and hanging out. Cross your fingers for the weather, right now it's calling for rain, which could be a bit of a damper on the event.

Today is election day. Rob and I will head out to the polls in a little while and cast our ballots. Hopefully the sunshine today helps voter turnout. Then who knows, maybe we'll stop somewhere for ice cream -- because ice cream is good for the spirit.

Holding My Own

The side-effects of treatment this time are tolerable. I've been taking the anti-inflammatory drug Celebrex to control the aches and pains, and overall it is working. My heels and knees have been somewhat achey, but not too bad. It does raise the question of what to wear on my feet the weekend of June 27, Rebecca's wedding. I have a feeling high heel shoes will not be an option for me. I guess I'll have to go look for something low and flat (and cushioned).

The other side-effect from treatment, which seems to have no rhyme nor reason, is the hot flashes and subsequent chills I get in the night. I was told in general I could experience these menopausal-type symptoms and last night was one of those nights where I woke up feeling far too warm to sleep and the shivering because I was too cold. I guess this is what is in store for me down the road.

Overall, I'm doing well, although I had hoped the aches would be unnoticeable (one can always hope, right?). Rob and I went for a drive yesterday and got groceries last night. He's now waiting for our friend Kevin and the boys are going to the golf course for the afternoon. I think I'll just curl up and read.

More from a Mentor

In the Hero's Journey the role of the mentor cannot be understated. These characters provide encouragement, strength, guidance and inspiration. I received a card in yesterday's mail from Kathy E, a person I consider to be one of my personal mentors; her notes are always inspiring and positive.

Kathy's latest card included a photo of herself and her friend Barb. Unfortunately I don't have a scanner so I can't share it. These incredible women took part in the Digby Relay for Life in 2007. I know I've mentioned Kathy is a cancer survivor. Her friend is also, and Kathy provided a few details I hope she doesn't mind me sharing. As I said these women serve as an incredible inspiration for anyone facing adversity.

In 1979 Kathy was diagnosed with Stage 2 cervical cancer at the age of 36. She had a radical hysterectomy and lymph nodes removed. The surgery was so successful she didn't need any other treatment. Twenty years later, in 1999 she was diagnosed with early stage colon cancer. Again, following a successful surgery she was declared cancer-free without any other treatment required.

Kathy's friend Barb A has to be a woman of incredible strength. She has survived not only breast cancer, but also lung cancer, thyroid cancer, colorectal cancer and for the past six years she has been living with and fighting non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. It takes real strength and courage to continue an ongoing battle like that.

Throughout my journey I have found inspiration and hope in many places, and that support as well as the energy and prayers continue to provide a strong foundation from which to battle this disease. So far I'm still feeling good after round five. I took my Celebrex this morning and hope it heads off any ill effects before they occur. I want to be energized by next weekend as I'm planning on take part in the Lower Sackville Relay for Life with one of the two teams entered from my workplace.

Round Five -- Done!

The countdown is truly on. This morning was round five of six. By the end of this month I'll be through the second phase of this particular journey (if you count all the testing beforehand as Phase I).

My treatment was at 9 a.m. but I was up at 6 a.m. to take dose number two of the requisite Decadron. I had to take one dose before bed last night and another at 8 a.m. This is all so I don't have a horrible allergic reaction to the chemo drugs. However, I rarely sleep well the night before chemo, so I'm thinking a nap is in order this afternoon.

I'll take my Celebrex tomorrow and hopefully won't encounter the same aches and pains I had after the last treatment.

I took advantage of both the weather and the fact that I was at a high point in terms of energy yesterday. I mowed the back yard, did a little weeding and played nine holes of golf with Rob (actually I played eight). I took a golf workshop a few years ago and we were told because we're beginners we should play like we're 10 -- for the fun of it. As a result I don't keep score, if I don't like where my ball landed I move it, and if don't feel like playing a hole I skip it. Rob doesn't care one way or another, he's just glad I'm willing to go with him. Plus, playing my way eliminates a lot of the frustration and means I'll probably play again.

Too Windy for My Hat

So, yesterday afternoon I went to the grocery store for dog food and milk. It was so windy as I was getting out of the car a gust took my ball cap and blew into the next row of cars. Picture me ducking between cars to try to catch it before the next gust of wind. I don't mind my bald head, I'm actually quite used to it now and rarely wear anything on it when I'm home...but the poor woman who was getting out of her car in the row where my hat had landed did a double-take. The sad part is not only did this happen on the my way into the grocery store, but also on the way out again.

Rob and I went for ice cream last night. When I got back there was a message on my phone. Mike B, the VP of NAD had called to wish me well etc. I work for a great company where people are treated as individuals and not just some cog in the machine. I've had tremendous support and positive energy from various levels from manament to hourly staff.

I went for blood work this morning and because I didn't have a doctor's appointment I went to the hospital in Musquodoboit Harbour, a nearby village. I've gotten spoiled by going into the Cancer Center for this task. It was a little over an hour from the time I went through the doors of the hospital to the time I left again. It rarely ever takes more than 20 minutes at the Cancer Center. It wouldn't normally be a concern but I wanted to rush home to vacuum and prep lunch because my cousin Peggy and her daughter Sam were coming for lunch. It was a lovely visit too.

Like many of my visitors these days, they came with gifts -- a funny book, a prosperity starfish (a gorgeous silver starfish necklace with sparkles -- the five points represent wishes for health, prosperity, happiness, friendship and wealth) as well as a little glass cat Sam picked out. I made us salad with cold salmon, roasted red pepper bruschetta and rhubarb crisp. Cole loved having visitors, especially when Sam took him outside to play. We had a great visit full of laughs. Another cousin, Helen, was supposed to come but unfortunately she's sick with a cold and opted not to bring it to me. Helen, hope you're feeling better. Now Peg knows where I live, so we'll have other visits soon.

Like so many others, as Peg was leaving she said "You look good, you still have your sparkle." It always surprises me when someone says that. I guess, unlike many people receiving chemo treatments, I haven't lost a lot of weight or developed a gaunt appearance. Of course the drugs and treatments today are much improved compared to even a decade ago, and aside from cancer I'm healthy and young (relatively). Of course it's easy to stay positive when you have the support that I've had since the beginning of this journey.

Testing Results

I finally heard back from the genetic clinic. They have the results of my genetic testing, but like all good stories we have to build a sense of anticipation and we won't get the analysis until June 23, the earliest appointment I could get. The good news is I'll have an appointment at the genetic clinic in the morning and my regular appointment with my oncologist in the afternoon and we can discuss the results and what they mean.

This is my best week and I took advantage of feeling well over the weekend. Yesterday Rob and I took the dogs for a hike and then went to the driving range to hit a few golf balls. We're hoping to get in a nine-hole round of golf sometime before chemo on Thursday. I also mowed the front lawn which was getting a little shaggy looking.

Wally, Jen and the kids were out on Saturday for supper. I made ham and Rob made his delicious garlic mashed potatoes.

Friday's mail contained a card from the Southville Church of Christ.

Tomorrow or Wednesday I need to go for blood work. Not having an appointment with the oncologist is throwing me off. Thursday is round five of chemo. In general June is shaping up as a busy month. The Relay for Life is June 12, Rob has a fishing weekend with Dave and Ian, I have two rounds of chemo, doctors appointments, plus there is Father's Day, Jen's birthday and Reba's wedding. Before you know it the month will be gone and we'll be into July.