"God Does All Things Well"

I hope everyone had a Blessed Christmas and New Years. Our Christmas was intimate and full of laughter. All the kids came over for our traditional morning quiche (that wasn't done on time-a lesson I learned very well from my mom). The gifts were very meaningful and thoughtful. We are so blessed to have our loved ones around us during the holidays. We went to Sue and Duke's house in the late afternoon and enjoyed time with those that live in Chicagoland area. It was wonderful to see the nieces and nephews and now their children too. My brothers, sisters and my late sister's girls from afar (and all their spouses) presented me with a Gift of Love that will carry me through the chemo experience. The love and support that I get from them is overwhelming and always present. For that I am most thankful for. I love you all.

Ron and I went to interview the oncology doctor at University of Chicago. She layed out the same plan as the oncology doctor in Naperville. So we have decided to do the treatment in Naperville, since I really liked Dr. Hantel and his bedside manner, plus it is close to home.

On last Wednesday, I went in for the port placement. It was an hour long and all went well as expected. The port is a size of a quarter underneath the skin below my clavicle a half inch thick and is joined to the vein by a catheter. A bit bothersome but an easy access than always poking at my veins for the year-long treatments I am scheduled to receive. As we are walking up the stairs to our home, I was thinking that this is the 6th time I have needed help coming up the stairs with sedation in my system in the last 2 1/2 months. And really hoping that this will be my last procedure/surgery.

New Years was also very nice and intimate with our friends from high school at a fabulous dinner party in Elmhurst. The 4 other couples have known Ron and I for 38-41 years. We have seen all of us raise our children, have struggles in life, and shared in their joys. None of our children have married yet, and thankfully none of us have been in poor health. For that we are all thankful and raised our glasses to the toast of 2012 and good health.

Now I come to the point that I am receiving my first chemo treatment today at 12:45. What I am feeling is some anxiety and nervousness of the unknown. How will my body react to this poison that is entering my veins? I wish that I didn't have to go through this, but I know it is the right course of action. I sorta wished that I went to see the Cancer Center before the treatment so that I know what to expect. I am visualizing an open room with IV lines hanging above many chairs. I think my first reaction would be that there will be very sick people in those chairs and that I will feel really sorry for them and what they are going through. Right now, I don't feel like I am one of them. My story will not be like theirs. That I am only doing this as a precaution. I DO NOT look or feel like a cancer patient...at least not yet.

I have been receiving so many compliments that I look great. I feel great!!! I have recovered from surgery very well. But what I really feel is that the glow from me is God radiating from my soul. I have given myself fully to this adventure of paying attention to His Presence in my life. I trust in Him. And He will carry me forward. I was at a memorial this past week, and the message from the priest was that "God Does All Things Well". No matter if you think He has done you wrong/taken a loved one from you, He has done it according to His plan. With all His Power and Glory, I have confidence and peace. God Does All Things WELL.

Thank you to my families and friends. The support and kindness is appreciated and carries me forward in these next 12 weeks.

Joanie