May 23

Today was a 2 nap day and it's not over yet. Back on the chemo and yesterday took it out of me. One the plus side I was feeling a lot better earlier in the week.

I went to a different yoga class (restorative yoga), they don't laugh at you as much and when you look like you are in pain with a particular pose they come by with blankets to help. It did feel good to stretch out. I also went for a run on Wednesday realizing it was my last one for a while before starting up on the chemo again. I had to walk the last half mile so I think the radiation is taking its toll, at least that's the story I told the dogs when they looked at me in disbelief.

I met with my oncologist on Thursday after the drip and that was the best part of my day. My blood counts are great. He was very pleased that they have not dropped at all and my bone marrow looked good as well. Apparently all those years of healthy living (only eating hamburgers and chorizo burritos when Cynthia was not looking) have paid off.

They did start me on a couple of other medications the counter some of the radiation and chemo effects including Flow Max and Prilosec, I think I am one pill away from complete geriatrics.

I have about 2 more weeks to go, they are not sure if they are going to do a radiation boost of another 3-5 treatments. I will then get more invasive exams and they will set a tentative surgery schedule. They may do a round of chemo after surgery just so I have something to look forward to, but I should be completely wrapped up in 3-4 months.

The older English Lady in the chemo room (lung cancer patient fro smoking) actually gave me a Bill Bryson book because she said she enjoyed my laugh. She then proceeded to point out to me in the room who she thought was a "goner." I was a little shocked so she explained to me that is what they say in England "a goner." Obviously I am not in that category or she would not have invested in the book for me.

I do appreciate her support but even more so all the other support from friends and family. I know it has been hard on Cynthia and the boys, but they are all doing well. With all the good news about my condition I know the prayers and good thoughts are coming through. I have been warned by both doctors that the effects are cumulative and I will be more and more exhausted the next three weeks but I will continue to update as I go.