Many of you read the update from my doctor visit on Friday. If you missed it, you can find it HERE.
It was not the best news, but my family and I are all adjusting to what will be our new normal. I’ve done some research on what foods are best to help with the diarrhea side effects. I’ve also ordered a blood pressure machine. The kids will be home this weekend, and I made a list of jobs I’d like to do over the weekend when they are here.
I spent lots of time in the sewing room on Sunday. Sewing is so good for my brain. I can feed pieces through the machine and zone out if I want…or process stuff if I want. What is big on my mind right now is my garden and flowers outside. If you’re a long term blog reader, you know I love my flowers outside…
you know I love making and eating yard sauce.
I was thinking about all of that and sewing when my phone dinged. This was the message…
What??? I’m so confused. I didn’t know I was going to be referred to Radiation Oncology.
I messaged Kalissa. Did I miss something in my appointment? I know we covered a lot. But I can’t imagine myself missing that.
Then my phone rang. It was Sunday afternoon…and the person on the phone was my doctor. The first thing I did was tell him he shouldn’t be working on Sunday. Then I let him talk.
One of my scans wasn’t in on Friday when I saw him. It was the MRI of my pelvic area. It turns out that I have a concerning spot at the top of my left femur. It needs radiation…and a possible spot in my right hip. UGH.
I’ve had radiation before. It’s not a big deal in the way I get it…typically, it’s three zaps, and I don’t get most of the side effects others get. In the large scheme of things, it’s a bump in the road.
I already talked to my kids, and if this happens, I’ll likely stay at Hope Lodge and avoid the back-and-forth driving unless it is scheduled over the course of a weekend, meaning one dose on a Friday and the rest Monday and Tuesday. It will be less taxing on the kids and less money in gas. Hope Lodge is great. They let cancer patients stay for free.
My doctor was great and very encouraging. He assured me that a good attitude would help me get through it all…so I’m working on keeping a good attitude.
I can’t imagine anyone with a better attitude than you! Sure, there are moments…but you are a force to be reckoned with!
Exactly!! ❤️
I second that. You go girl!
I third that – you are an amazing woman – keeping those prayers going!
Love and prayers
You have the best attitude I’ve ever seen so you should be ok on that score! Can you take a sewing machine with you and sew in your room. A sort of mini solo retreat! Of course you’ll have plenty of cross stitch to occupy yourself.
You have a great doctor to call you Sunday and with you family support team you will work it all out. All your fans will be sending prayers and positive energy too. You’re going to beat this one too!
Jo You have the best attitude and I admire how you and your family all rally when the going gets rough! Sending lots of positive thoughts and hugs your way!!!!
I hope you decide to do your flowers at least. I enjoy looking at mine when I need a rest or a boost or inspection for quilt colors. Maybe Carver can help with watering if needed. Prayers for your journey and healing
Jo, we started praying for you last Friday. Nancy Angerer
Jo, we started praying for you last Friday.
Everyone before me wrote exactly what I thought – you always keep an upbeat attitude, Now if you can find some very funny movies to watch that would be helpful, so I’m told. In the scheme of things you are right, radiation can be easier than some other treatments, at least I thought so when I went through radiation treatment for breast cancer. I did 30 treatments on my way to work. I know there are many different protocols for every kind of treatment.
Jo, you are such a shining example of a wonderful attitude. You faith and family and those of us who feel such a connection through your blog and are praying will work miracles. You’ve got this!
Jo, your attitude is a winner. You are such an example of accepting what is thrown at you. Many prayers soften your road. Enjoy a stay at the lodge. Pamper yourself with that. I’m hanging in there with you.
I agree with all the thoughts and prayers above ! You should look at this like a little “vacay” relax and enjoy the company and cross stitch ! Everybody is with you ! ❤️
Thank goodness for the marvels of modern medicine to treat all this crap. Keep focusing on all your fun quilts and cross stitch and let the doctors figure out the rest.
I’m making myself your own personal prayer warrior! You remind me of my daughter, she has a very serious illness and the best attitude in the world. We deal with everything as it comes along. Take care. Hugs,
not much to add, but you are in our prayers, and if appreciation helps, i appreciate all your inspiration tremendously.
Wonderful doctor and he seems to understand you well, good attitude makes a huge difference and he recognized that quality in you!! Prayers continue in your journey.
I agree with the other comments, great attitude goes a long way in getting better. All of your blog readers are with you in healing thoughts and prayers. I recall when you stayed at Hope Lodge before and it looks like a wonderful place and hand stitching is a great time killer. I hope you get lots of “jobs” done with the kids at home and that the weather is nice. If you’re looking for a fun and easy movie to watch, check out The Man on the Inside, on Netflix.
I ‘Fourth’ that.
Your Dr. cares, that’s fantastic. Wasn’t it
” Kramer Strong” that I read somewhere!
Still lifting you up, and your family, with prayers and hopes for strength and positive attitude. 2026 may be a quilt making record for you… zone out to your hearts content!
You are an inspiration and a testament to the power of positivity, prayer, and family; as is your family. I feel redundant saying it as so many already have. Sending hugs your way.
You know that your family will be there to help with anything you need. I’m sure Carver will help water your plants and garden. You do have the best attitude. Prayers for your good health at the end of all this.