Talking about cancer and seeing its impact on others (many younger with small children). People confided their sense of mutilation after breast surgeries, discussed how to respond to dire prognoses for Stage Four cancers of various sorts. The conversations were sobering. They freed us all up to express how the cancer diagnosis, treatment, and aftermath affected our lives and sense of self and the future. The discussions were facilitated by two able counselor-leaders who had their own cancer stories.
My last chemo treatment runs next Tuesday to the following Monday. Then just 3 month check ups starting in March. It is remarkable to think this has been going on for half a year now. So continuing cardio rehab classes, breathing exercises and hopefully back on a bike in February. I don't yet know what my capacity will be as I learned when a small cold cut into my already surgically reduced lung capacity.
My optimism remains despite the challenges ahead. Have to get ready to dance at some weddings this year as well as random howling at the moon.
From the rain starved Northwest,
Lynn
