Week Two in the Books!!

Sharing My Story:  This week I decided to do something that has been really difficult for me - sharing my story with a large group of colleagues.  Very early on in this journey, I made the decision to be open and honest about what is going on not only with my family and friends, but with my large group of pharmacy co-workers.  You see, I am not the typical "James patient" in that I work at the James.  I knew that as a "James patient" people I considered my friends would be the medical professionals that would be caring for me!!  I also knew that as a "James patient" I would run into co-workers/friends in the elevators or be seen in the waiting area before my chemo visits.  So I decided to take the path of openness and honesty (which is really how I live my life anyhow, so it just feels natural to me:).  I began by telling people either individually or in small groups.  As I shared my story with more people, it became a little bit easier but I really struggled with how to tell everyone.  An email seemed too impersonal.  So on Thursday I made a last minute decision to attend a meeting at work and shared what is going on with me with a large group of my colleagues/friends.  And while this announcement was difficult, I felt like it was the next necessary step for me.  I'd like to personally thank my "James Phamily" for all the support!

Nap Time

End of Week Recap:  Overall, week two went pretty smoothly.  My radiation appointments all went as planned and I was able to attend some after work social events this week.   As expected, I've started to experience some of the side effects of radiation (fatigue and GI issues) so I've spent most of the weekend resting and relaxing.  On Saturday, Nathan and I celebrated our 12th anniversary with a little less pizzazz than usual.  We purchased a new coffee table from World Market and grabbed a bite to eat from KFC (the mashed potatoes are just sooo tasty to me right now!!).  Next year we'll be back to the the fancier celebrations.

Update of Woody:  He came home on Thursday, has been continuing to recover, and is doing well.

Now on to week three!!!