Centipede Crazy

Yesterday, I had to go to my primary doctor to have blood work done for my upcoming surgery. I never like getting those things done. I was looking forward afterwards to stop by work and say "hi" to everyone. I just can't wait to get back. As I was pulling on to the street I was so happy to be there. The day before I was physically not feeling well so I wasn't sure I would be up to going. I was so glad I was feeling better.

I share an office with two other wonderful women. Our office is upstairs and we have the best view (sorry guys). I was only there a short time until all the guys started coming upstairs to visit. I felt very honored because they normally only come upstairs if they know we have candy. I thought it was a little strange that everyone was visiting at once. I soon found out that they had a gift for me. They collectively purchased an IPod Touch so that I would have it while going through chemotherapy. They even were so thoughtful to get ITune cards so that I could start downloading music, audio books, and movies. I was so touched by their gift.

Last night Jim got it set up and Matt showed me how to use it. I started browsing and found a treasure. I used to love playing the arcade game Centipede and it was available to download on to my IPod. I had so much fun. My family thinks I'm a little nuts (no comments). Can you imagine how the other individuals who go through chemo with me are going to think when I'm screaming at the screen? If it brings me joy during my time in that chair they are just going to have to deal with it.

One of the partner's wife also made me a blanket to take to chemotherapy. She stitched it with a group of women that make blankets specifically for children, women, and men who have cancer. It's called Joyful Blankets. I can't wait to show it to everyone. My sister had made me an amazing bag that I am planning on taking to chemo to hold all my stuff. I might need another one. It'll look like I'm moving in. At least they will have a lot to talk about when I'm around or at least when I leave.

So, yesterday was very special after having a not so good Monday (except for our wonderful dinner that was delivered).

My schedule is changing just a little bit this week. My appointment with the plastic surgeon has been changed to Monday instead of tomorrow. We decided that I probably would not have been able to endure laying down for the PET-CT scan on Saturday if the expanders were filled tomorrow. When I get them filled on Monday it won't matter for my surgery on Wednesday because I'll be out and won't feel the pain of laying on my back. I think this will work out much better.

I will write either more tonight or tomorrow on how my appointment goes with the oncologist today.

Thanks for all your love and prayers. I really need it.

Traci

P.S. My mom seems to be doing good. She was moved to a rehab center Sunday evening and will be able to stay there until she can care for herself.