"Part II, Act I..."

Radiation started at 12:00 noon, and was over before I knew it. I remember them opening my gown, and I simply stated: "I'm sure glad I don't have big hooters as that's less skin to go through to get to this lil sucker." It made them smile, and relaxed me. It was over before I knew what was going on. Vici, a wonderful nurse with the most tender, relaxing voice, gave me a little shamrock and rice crispy treat in a St. Paddy's day sack. That started the day off good! Personnel who work in the cancer field have so much compassion. I wonder if they truly know how they can soothe a soul with a smile and soft voice and caring eyes.

We then proceeded to the 8 hour chemo treatment in Westwood. I was a tad bit bummed driving by as there is a golf course directly across the street, and my obsessive golf soul would have rather been out there shaking the sticks. Birdie, Par, Bogey...Eagle...Yea, I start out with some doubles too...

Kizzy came in and gave us the info, then Sheri and another nurse came in and explained the schedule and protocol. Cathy Glennon, our guardian angel, came in and also answered questions. Yes, I'm gonna lose my hair!! UGH!! Oh well, I'll sport a colorful doo rag. I'm not a wig girl. I had to have a couple of hours of drip just to prepare my kidneys. After a few hours, about 4:00, I started to get restless. I asked for something to help me sleep. Funny, at that same exact time (Colorado time), my sister wasn't having the anxiety reaction, but was thinking about me. Another kindred spirit.

My nephew Mark's girlfriend Carrie, a darling soul, stopped by with her mother , Michele. They brought me some beautiful flowers. I showed her my "Aunt Throw" that Mike, Mark and Sarah had given me for Christmas. It's my good luck charm, and hasn't left my side since diagnosis. I sleep with it. It's my woogie!! :-) :-)

The next thing I knew, I woke up and it was 8:00, and I only had an our left. It flew by. Wes and I stopped at a burger king so he could eat, and I had had little bits of sustunance through the day. We normally stop at Platte City en route home to eat at Tanners every time we go to KC. This time, we stopped at the Platte City CVS pharmacy to get a good thermometer and some other supplies.

I'm glad the waiting game is on, and Act I of Part II of the chemo game has started. I've an IV port in my hand, and must be careful. I've also a ton of literature to read. My groggy mind doesn't think I can remember it all right now, so I'll preview it tomorrow.

I just pray this gnarly looking big birthmark mediastinum shrinks! I've got a great husband, a wonderful family, students I adore, and a golf game that's emerging. I gotta keep fighting. With all your prayers and support, I have a good chance. Any chance is good in my book.

Please, you all, just keep praying.

Love and Prayers,
Julie