The Journey - Part 17

Moving Forward

November 2013

When doing a load of laundry recently (which is a rarity for me at the moment), I noticed most of the clothing consisted of my pajamas. That gives you a glimpse of my fashion sense these days. Actually, I did get dressed to go to my treatments each morning, but would quickly fall back into my comfy pjs when I got home. Extreme exhaustion has overtaken me like the plague. I struggle with feeling like a helpless lazy lug, desperately wanting to do something—other than lay in bed for hours at a time—and coming to grips that it’s just another part of the journey. Patience…it’s hard some days. But God in His ever-present gentleness continues to draw me to Himself and reminds me to wait on Him.

Radiation treatments continued on as scheduled and the doctors had nothing but praise for my positive attitude and progress. I counted down the days, along with many of you on Facebook, and surprisingly they seemed to clip right along. My final treatment was celebrated on November 13—you can bet I have that highlighted on my calendar!

The doctors and nurses cautioned me not to get too excited too soon, as I’ll have to allow for healing time…possibly up to a couple of months. The goal is to begin eating soft foods by mouth within a couple of weeks. I’m hoping my taste buds will kick in, as well, as I’ve been promised some delicious guacamole from my good friend, Kelly, and I certainly don’t want the taste of bitter cardboard getting in the way of one of my favorite foods. (My mom, Dr. Shirley, is ready to stuff a turkey leg down my tube and can’t wait for the day she can feed me again—eek!) When I get to the point of eating full solid meals, I will finally get my feeding tube removed. I have been looking forward to that day for a long time—hey, I’m a stomach sleeper! For those of you who find their sleeping comfort in a similar position, you sympathize with me, I’m sure.

“I lie down and sleep; I wake again, because the LORD sustains me.” Psalm 3:5

If I could ask one prayer request from my warriors this week it would be for healing of the burns on my neck from the radiation/chemo treatments. It began as acne-like blisters and now, although better, is still an annoyance. Each morning and evening, as directed by my doctor, I gently exfoliate my skin, which burns like crazy, and apply cool damp rags followed with a thin layer of Vaseline. (Thank you, Marshall!) It has helped, but is still very painful as my new skin is tight, making if difficult to move freely. I know it’s just another part of the process and will take patience on my part. Thank you so much for your prayers! You are a blessing in so many ways.