Personal Journey Entry # 35

It was four weeks ago when Dr. Boland outlined my next phase of treatment. After 10 surgeries/procedures, we have gotten to the point I was praying to avoid. We are looking at 12 weeks of radiation and chemo. It seems odd that I was okay with the possibility of losing my esophagus and part of my stomach. Still, the thought of zapping my body with radiation pulses and injecting a poison cocktail into my system bothers me. Maybe this is a flashback to my sister Bobbie bravely going to chemo treatments for years, only to lose her battle. My sister was a true warrior during her war with cancer, and I find myself calling upon her for strength in my moments of weakness. I am having one of those moments as I type this note.

Shay and I finally met with Dr. Cheney yesterday after a four-week wait for the appointment due to a clerical snafu. I was hoping he would say we could get started on Monday, but it was wishful thinking on my part. It will be two more weeks before we can begin the radiation treatment, and the chemo starts concurrently. I remember Dr. Federico telling me not to have too many cooks in the kitchen. Dr. Cheney is the seventh member of our medical team, and we both left his office yesterday with a high level of confidence that he would finally get us to the finish line. Sorry, Drs. Federico and Lassaletta, you guys can put away the scalpels—no more incisions for this guy.

We are constantly told that nobody has seen a case and series of procedures like we have had. I must say that I have had no problem with any procedure and have complete confidence in my doctors and facilities, but the downtime has been the most challenging part of the journey. The idle time allows your mind to wander and for worry to interrupt the faith and confidence. When this happens, I take a deep breath and dig very deep for the strength needed to overcome. So far, it has worked, but please, no more delays. Let’s get this job done and get on with a healthy life, as it should be.

Please, enjoy a safe and wonderful holiday weekend, and as always, thank you for your thoughts, prayers, and for stopping by.

God Bless and wrap you in His arms. Ray