Personal Journey Entry # 43

I don’t know why the horse racing theme, but this year has been one long steeplechase. Actually, the last two years have been a test for Shay and me. We spent the summer of 24 thinking I had Multiple Myeloma, only to find out in October that it was a blood deficiency I had and not a blood cancer situation. It was a stressful period, and a good prep for what we would face in 2025. After nine months of tests and ten surgeries and procedures, today I will sit for my last chemotherapy. This is a bit of a surprise, as Dr. Boland informed me yesterday that we would pass on the last scheduled chemo and give my blood counts a chance to heal. My hand is not on the bell just yet, as we have some waiting time ahead, and anyone who knows me knows I am not very good at waiting.

I asked Dr. Boland if he would contact Dr. Tompkins at Exeter Hospital to do my scope in late November or early December. It seemed fitting to have the woman who saved my life in January possibly close the door on this dark chapter with the good news that we have eradicated the tumor in my esophagus. When Dr. Tompkins, gives us the good news, you will hear that damn bell in every corner of New England.

In the meantime, some positive developments have occurred with the support group and beyond. First, I realized the power of simply reaching out to someone afflicted by the horrible disease. I heard of a man on the other side of the Pond who also had Esophageal Cancer. I got his name and number and gave him a call. He returned my call in a heartbeat, and I could tell by his tone how thankful he was that someone cared enough to touch the life of a stranger. His situation is more advanced than mine, as is his age. He has multiple issues with his body that is making treatment difficult, and he is really hoping to just extend his quality of life a few more years. After all, at 80, he has a lot of riding on his motorcycle ahead of him. I pray for Skip and hope we can continue to stay in touch, as nobody should have to travel this road alone, and he is looking forward to our support group starting up, which should be very soon.

I have been playing with some new names and logos for our group, and I feel we are ready to get started. Though we will be independent in our mission, I felt it was important to maintain our faith-based foundation. With the help of East Auburn Baptist Church, which is providing us with a home for our in-person gatherings, we should get started in October. Stay tuned for details, and we will need your help spreading the word.

Well, I have a bus to drive and kids to deliver before I drive to Portsmouth for a final bag of poisonous nectar. I, no, we, pray for every one of our angels who have made this year a bit easier and who have offered up their prayers for a full recovery. Shay and I are forever in your debt. God bless you and wrap his graceful arms around everyone you hold dear. And may He give an extra long hug for Erika and her two beautiful children as we all say goodbye to their beloved Charlie this weekend.

Rest in Peace, Charlie Kirk. Your work is done, but may the force you created power on for a generation and beyond. We may never fully comprehend the impact you had on earth, but we marvel at the people you are touching from Heaven. We love you, Charlie.