Last Day

It has been a busy day!

My last radiation appointment was at 9:30 this morning - 30 days of radiation treatment - I have a lovely tan in the oddest shape on my left side!!!  It is peeling, blistering and even bleeding a bit this morning - and apparently it will be worse before it is better - but I AM DONE!!!!

I did my little happy dance and hooted and hollered and skipped my way down the hallway out of that place, well tried to skip but the arthritis in my knee wouldn't let me do it properly!!  Don't get me wrong, they make it as pleasant as possible - always coffee, juice and cookies available - sometimes you get served by the volunteers and sometimes you help yourself - but it is pleasant surroundings and very clean and organized.  Everyone is very cordial and friendly and they make it as pain-free as possible.  So here's a big thanks to the staff of the Oshawa cancer centre for their courtesy and kindness and care.

My daughter took me out for breakfast to celebrate - we went to Cora's and it was really good - lots of fresh fruit so I felt I was eating healthy.

Later in the day I had the pleasure of getting together at a girlfriend's home for a Finance Department 'last day of treatment' celebration.  It was so good to see everyone and we really had a great time sitting in the sunshine chatting and drinking wine.  We had a delicious lunch and I feel very blessed to know such awesome people.  I miss them all.  Thank you so much girls.

I want to give a big thanks to:

- my husband, for his love, patience and constant support (even on the bitchy days - me, not him!)
- my children, who encouraged me and kept up my spirits, wouldn't let me get down on myself and kept me strong.  Nicole who researched everything and made sure she was in control in her own way - Brandon who made me laugh and who cooked for me the best burger I ever ate.
- Tamara, Brandon's girlfriend, who checked in on my often via facebook and who was a great support
- my girlfriend Maureen (my sister) who was with me every step of the way - held my hand, cried with me laughed with me.   Who made me take my medicine and drink the water.  Who kept me on the right track when I couldn't remember what the doctors had told me and who checked in with me every day.
- my 2 sisters in England, who kept tabs on me through Skype and knew when I didn't call them that it wasn't the best of days and were always relieved when my face popped up - who praised the bald head and encouraged me to be 'just me'!  Thanks to Bev for her visit - taking time away from her job and livelihood to spend time with me - just the girls, hanging out, being sisters.
- the two muskateers, who have supported and covered for me during my absence, who brought food, who have given me a boost when most needed and have been there every step of the way.
- my boss, who has been more than patient and understanding during my absence
- my colleagues and co-workers who have been so supportive and kind, being generous with their prayers and friendship and food!! :)
- my neighbours who were there for us when we needed them, who took out the garbage and brought the recycling boxes back up the driveway
- Suzanne, whose emails I looked forward to for encouragement, laughter and strength
- everyone else that has supported and encouraged and prayed for me during this journey - the list is too long to mention everyone (plus with Chemo brain I might miss someone)!!

Please know that I thank you all from the bottom of my heart and it is because of your support that my spirits have been high for the most part and my attitude has been positive.

I don't know what the next weeks/months will bring - but my aim is to get fully better and enjoy the summer and get my life back to normal.

Cancer Vixen signing off for now
Jeaninne