Forgive our slowness to post--Houston was hell on wheels. From the (first) snowstorm in Portland to an epic, longer-than-planned time at MDACC, a hotel full of state champ football players (this is texas, remember) celebrating until the wee hours, another snowstorm in Portland and Mad Max-esque scenes in two airports, it was too much to report. Needless to say, when we fell into a warm Portland bed of our own at 4am on Monday morning, we were happy to be home.
But, all of our waiting and feeling trapped was supplanted today, when our Texas doc called with the great news that the lymph nodes they took out were free of microscopic bad guys. We're surer than ever that we know what we're looking at, and feeling so grateful that the study gave us the rare opportunity to look so closely. My dad has compared this experience to feeling like a little frog deep in a well, looking up at the light. Today, the light is brighter and closer than ever.
We're in Oregon, covered with snow and ready to start the smackdown. Monday's the day.
Speaking of which, some of you will be glad to know that I finally have a tattoo. 3, in fact. Don't get your hopes up, they're pinpoint-sized dots on each hip and one in the middle, but I'm no longer a factory model. Apparently, when you have radiation, they like to have a consistent target. Mark tells me that if you look at them under a microscope they're each some version of a screaming eagle, flaming skull, hissing rattlesnake sort of thing, but I'm choosing to believe that each one is just a teeny, tiny little ninja.
All of this has obviously turned my life upside down, and I know I only post when I'm feeling strong and clear-headed. I suppose it goes without saying that there are moments of fear and frustration, but I can't say it enough: hearing from all the amazing people from so many corners of my life makes all the difference. There are ever-more moments of laughter and strength, thanks to your support.
So much love and Merry Christmas/Whatever You Celebrate,
jmb
16 years ago
5 comments:
You are loved and continue to be nothing short of amazing. I'm glad you're home.
Jess, so glad to hear about your clean nodes. You caught the bastard before it could spread. Next step: stomping it. We'll have to make a tumor effigy and burn it in a welcome-home bonfire when all this is over. Cathartic crafting followed by fiery destruction -- perfect! I hope you are having a merry christmas in Portland. We'd love to visit sometime, but don't want to bring any cooties your way. If we leave the midget at home, can we stop by and say hi sometime? All our love, the Taylors
Those of us following your journey from a distance are very happy to hear the node news!!
Sending strength and good wishes for Monday and beyond,
Kay
Yay for good news! Last night we toasted to you coming home healthy as one of the things we look forward to in the coming year. I still haven't gotten over the urge to drive up to Portland to give you a super tight bear hug squeeze, so just know I do that every day in my mind! Rest up this weekend, you'll be kicking ass on Monday.
YAY Jessica!!!!!!!! Thanks for your post and such good news - considering the circumstances, right!!!! We think of you so much and are sending our love and support. Wish you did not have to be going through this but since you are so incredible your spirit and we are all so grateful you have all the love and support around you. Hugs and more hugs, Paula et al
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