It’s been a while. I decided to let my ten year cancerversary pass with little fanfare. I breathed a big sigh of relief as another milestone was reached. When I was diagnosed surviving five years was a miracle. Ten?! On “my” targeted therapy (the Lady Lorlatinib), I consider myself an outlier. Recently a fellow working with my oncologist at Dana-Farber told me I was an anomaly, a compliment. If only we could figure out why the drug continues to work for me when it fails so many others.
In mid March our son drove me to Boston for my day of tests and appointment. Dan stayed home with Ruby Jean and the wood stove, anxiously waiting for my appointment. After I had pre treated for the IV contrast (deemed allergic because I sneezed once…), I arrived to learn that I didn’t need to do that because they have a different contrast to use. Great! The only catch is that I had to drink about a quart of barium beforehand. You know, that thick white chalky stuff. Yup, that stuff. Two bottles in one hour. But when all was done, we heard the good news – STILL STABLE! The two fellows were very interesting and interested. One knew a lot about lorlatinib. Back in six months!
Our winter was taken up in part with three trips per week to Dan’s cardiac rehab. Ruby Jean and I kept him company, waiting in the car. After 36 classes, he graduated from the program. For those of you who remember that he had pericarditis after his Oct. 1 heart attack, you’ll be glad to hear that he is doing really well. We are learning what works for us in yet another new “normal” as people say.
About a month ago Dan and I had colds. Mine decided to turn into acute bronchitis. Luckily not pneumonia, but several doctor visits, x-rays, CT scan (no contrast because I’m allergic you know…), and medications. The coughing and wheezing have improved, and I’m slowly regaining my strength. I don’t think I’ve missed too much with the cold rainy April, and now I’m feeling like getting out more.
Greenhouse news. We have much to learn about greenhouse gardening, but we’re off to a good start and have plans for fall, winter, and spring. Our baby tomatoes are doing very well and will be ready to set out when it’s time. Some may stay in the greenhouse. Dan’s potatoes are blossoming! He’s hoping for some red potato fries (got to have a treat sometimes). The radishes have been tasty! The baby peppers aren’t growing too well. The cucumbers look great. Usually we just sow the cucumber seed in the garden, but this year we will have a few sets. The marigolds overheated, but a few are strong enough for the first transplant. That’s it for now, just having fun out there, a few minutes at a time.
Our other big news is that Dan sold his lobster boat and most of his traps. Officially retired, but very busy! Our son bought the JazzaRu and has kept her name. She’s looking really beautiful, soon to be launched for another season. As for Dan, me, and of course Captain Ruby Jean, we will be lobstering out of our 14′ Starcraft (the RubyJean), with a fresh coat of bottom paint, new motor, and an electric hauler. Fitting, and perfect really, that Tim is taking over Dan’s boat and we are using the boat that was originally Tim’s first boat.
Thanks to all who continue to hold us in your prayers and positive thoughts. We continue to find joy in the everyday every day, grateful for the opportunity to do so. We know we are blessed. In a world filled with chaos, we all need to take time every day to find that bit of joy. And hope. Always have hope.
polepole ~ breathe 