. . . well, not really. It seems to be going at an incredibly slow pace. I tell myself I have only three weeks of radiation to go when I feel I can’t manage another three minutes of it. And I apparently have yet to experience the worst of it, according to the docs and the techs.
For those who may have forgotten, I’m continuing two days a week of total body radiation and three days a week of spot radiation. That schedule will continue until I’m done. As patients leave the radiaton area for the last time, they are allowed to ring a bell several times to signify their graduation. I personally don’t think that sounds like much fun . On the other hand, if the bell were to be attached to a tech’s body part and she was given a three second head start . . . . (insert Groucho leer here).
Since I’m falling asleep as I write this, I guess that’s a pretty good indication to wrap things up. I can’t express how great it feels to get to get an e-msil, card or letter.Thanks to everyone.
Rick`
Rick,
Mom just told me about your website yesterday so I thought i would check on you and see how you were doing. I am glad to hear you are preparing for a transplant. Do you have a matching donor or do you know that yet? I have been thinking of you often and pray for you and Tracy and Zach on a regular basis. We have been planning and preparing for the family this weekend for Grandpas big 100th birthday. I assume you will still be in Houston. How are Tracy and Zach doing?
As I was reading your comments about the other lady going through the test treatment with you I was thinking about how easy it is these days for us all to be so selfish and caught up in our own pursuit of possessions and things that have no eternal value. What a blessing you have to know your family is there for you.
I want you to know if there is anything Jennifer and I can do for you or Tracy or Zach to help please let us know. When you get your appetite for Barbecue cranked up give me a shout so I can send some Q your way to enjoy.
I will continue to pray for you and your family and hope to see you soon.
Take Care,
Case
Hi Rick,
Think and pray for you often. Your mom keeps me posted. I just hate that you have to go through all of this……..but am thankful that you have something that will help you. I know it is agonizing and I’m sure a pep talk is the last you lwant to hear……..but do keep hanging in there Bud……..wish I could help as I know everyone does, but I have some real strong prayers that seem to be helping us here, so know they must reach you, too.
Dale is okay and keeps plugging along. He gets discouraged and feels useless, but anyone would in his position. and he really tries to keep a good attitude. I am thankful for every day I have with him.
Your mom is doing well and though worried about you, has a very postitive attitude. She wishes she could help, too, but realizes it just isn’t possible.
Our love and prayers, Rick……….keep up the good work.
Char and Dale
I don’t know about that bell in radiation signifying completion of treatment. We always had food. The patients would bring in cookies, doughnuts, one man brought malts for all of us. A very big, melting box! of ice cream. For our M.D. leader on his birthday, the gift was unsual. I thought of it after you described your dash from upper floor cllinic to radiation dept. on the basement level. Radiation is always in the basement. (Good location for tornado and hurricaines.) We had a Tshirt made for him that said, “do it in the basement.” He loved it! I know, I know its much more fun to be staff than the patient. May you rise above it and live on the upper floors. Kinda poetic, don’t you think? ruthie