I didn't blog yesterday because there was not much to report. Well there was plenty to say really, but I did not create this blog to drone on and on about the really tough stuff. In a nut shell, mom spent the day in bed recovering from a very aggressive chemo treatment. Albeit the chemo treatment was 5 days ago, she is still feeling its effects.
But enough of that! Here's the good news: SHE IS FEELING BETTER TODAY! Being Memorial Day, we hosted a small family party. Thankfully, between Dad, Zach, Grandma and myself, we managed to get the house and all of the food ready simultaneously. Mom was able to snack on some of the lighter foods featured at today's get together, which was exciting after 5 days of a liquid diet. She admitted to me today that she does not want to drink tea or Gatorade of ANY color again! However, favorite of mom's was Aunt Michelle's jello-cake creation... delicious and semi-healthy, can't beat that! The afternoon was spent shooting the breeze and indulging in homemade food. Although mom is certainly not feeling like herself, it was nice to see her up and out of bed, feeling better!
Chemo, for those of you lucky enough to have never seen its effects, is a terrible and wonderful thing all at once. While it is knocking out all of the bad stuff, it is taking a lot of her spunk (temporarily) too. Mom has remained positive, even though she has been feeling pretty terrible lately. She giggles when she says that she has reached her "wedding weight," although this was certainly not an eating plan anyone intends to follow?!
Finally, I need to say that my dad is absolutely awesome. This guy is STILL running around, keeping up with everything and everyone but most importantly helping my mom through all of her aches, pains and sleepless nights. My parents may not be "perfect" ('cause nobody is) but they are perfect for each other. Their love and friendship only seems to get stronger each day and it is breath taking. Going through Cancer is no easy feat but these two make it look natural...
...disclaimer...
...disclaimer...
what you are about to enjoy is extreme emotion. whether that emotion is joy, sadness, hope, weakness, strength, disappointment or elation, know that everything you read here is true. please feel free to post your thoughts :) they are much appreciated!
help me help fight Cancer one word at a time,
Danielle
Danielle,
ReplyDeleteYour help and support, smiling face, silly jokes, and entertaining moments have made this trip so much easier for me! I could not get through this without you. You have taken on an entire household helping Dad and the boys out so much, and you are doing a great job! I love how you are teaching the boys in this family that there is no such thing as just "woman's work!" Anyone can do it! It doesn't matter what sex you are! You remind me of your godmother in that aspect. I have enjoyed watching you and that domestic side grow!
You are a wonderful young lady and I am so proud to call you my daughter! I hate that we have to go through this--hate watching my children, parents, family, and friends see me go through this. That's what I hate the most. But like you said, maybe its my turn to take a little break--and it is only temporary.
This disease may not be what our family has asked for, but it has worked miracles on many relationships due to the fact that we are. And although no one would ask for it to knock on their door, so many positive things have come out of it! Those are the things we have to remember on the rough days. Look at how blessed we are. Thank you for just being you and always brightening my day! I love you bunches! With you, the rest of our family and friends, and most importantly God by our side, we will get through this!
I love you guys! I'm huggin' ya both...can you feel it?
ReplyDeleteDanielle...you are a treasure to your Mother. While your blogs may bring tears to my eyes, and pain in my heart, they are so very uplifting by the very way you speak of the LOVE between your entire family. Your Mom..and Dad...have done a wonderful job in raising you, and your brothers..IMVHO. God bless you all.
ReplyDeleteDeirdre Wood's MoM
Hey Danielle This is Brad Dougan Saying I Enjoy Reading Your Blog about a Wonderful Teacher I Had, and a Wonder Mother Not Only You Have But The Rest of Your Family Has. I Know This is a Difficult Time For You Guys, An My Family Wishes You The Best and Our Thoughts and Prayers are With You and Your Family. Just Tell Your Mom I'm Not Gonna Mumble This when I Say Kick Cancer's Ass!
ReplyDelete"these two make it look natural" - in a way it IS natural. When you love someone the way that your parents love each other you just naturally "do what you gotta do"
ReplyDeleteMrs. H.
Hey Brad! Thank you for your support and kind words. I heard you loud and clear about what I need to do! hahaha! You used to crack me up with that mumbling, but I knew we could get you to speak up when needed! Thanks so much for the prayers and tell your family I said hello! I hope this finds you doing well!
ReplyDelete