08.21.12

08.21.12, a photo by colemama on Flickr.

Celebrating my last chemo treatment! The nurses surprised me with their hummed version of Pomp & Circumstance, waved a psychedelic baton, and presented me with this award! It is a relief to mark this last date off my checklist...though there are still side effects to deal with, hair to re-grow, bodily and mental systems to return to norm and many follow ups...nevertheless, a celebratory marker!

The success of getting through this involved a very strong partnership between my medical caregivers (including this group of six), family and friends, coworkers and students - all of whom made this journey palatable...and sometimes, even enjoyable! :) Even strangers who complimented my scarf-tying or gave a knowing smile helped to keep me grounded and normalized. And I need to also attribute some success to an internal strength and positive attitude that each and every one of us can empower in such times. Florida Cancer Specialists, Napa Ridge Office, Napa Ridge & Pine Ridge Rd, Naples, FL