Friday December 18th

Read this this morning. Psalm 37:39,40 
"But the salvation of the righteous is from the LORD; He is their strength in time of trouble. And the LORD shall help them and deliver them; He shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in Him."
    Trusting with all my heart. Yesterday I was at Fox Chase all day for my third treatment. The doctor said he felt I had made a good start with not many problems. Then we tried omitting one of the allergy meds that I was reacting to and suddenly I had a problem. I reacted to the taxil. Could not breathe and turned bright red. They had it sorted within minutes and all is well but it cost me an extra hour so we were there from 10 to 5. I am thankful to have company with me every time I go. I take snacks (I must remember to take real food because it is a long day and I am usually starving by the time we get home.) and yesterday took Christmas cards to write out. My friend Beth brought crochet. I got to talk to several other patients yesterday, one of whom was named Cheryl Ann and when she found out there was another Cheryl Ann there she made a point of coming over to meet me. I also made an appointment with a wig lady but I am undecided if I want to get one or not. I had my hair cut short last Friday in anticipation of it falling out but so far I have not lost any. I happen to like hats and have a collection of scarves so may make do with those. There is so much indignity with this disease. 
     So far I have had pretty mild side effects. I had a problem with dizziness last week but the doctor felt it was unrelated to the treatment. I tire easily and my sense of taste and smell is affected. It makes it difficult to eat so Iost 7 pounds the first week. I gained two back with effort this week. I am trying. People have blessed us with meals and that has been a big help. I am also trying to keep moving. I have been able to do yoga once a week and take walks with our dog. I hope to get back in the water soon at the YMCA.
   I have also received loads of cards and messages and some pretty nice gifts. I am feeling rather spoiled. I know people are praying. I can especially feel it Thursdays because I would never be that calm and patient if people were not praying. I keep looking for Divine appointments along this journey. Trying to keep alert for them. I am also trying to maintain an eternal perspective. Sometimes I slip and feel a little sorry for myself but it quickly passes and I believe that is because of prayer. Don't stop. When I am tempted to feel sorry for myself I look around and see all the patients at the cancer center and some of them are much younger than me and I feel for them and stop thinking about myself. After all, I have a delightful inheritance waiting for me. Wonder how many of them do.