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.