It’s been two months since being diagnosed with Lymphoma and Tuesday will start the 2nd round of chemo. I’ve been overwhelmed by all the expressions of support — prayers, meals, texts, emails, household chores, watching the girls and I could go on-and-on. Shannon and I are so blessed to be part of such a strong and beautiful community. Thank you to everyone. No matter how big or how small please know that your encouragement and help is much appreciated.
The first week after chemo was rough and as part of the medical trial I had to return to Houston for treatment in weeks 2 and 3. Going forward I’ll be going every three weeks for chemo. Because the chemotherapy treatment destroys the immune system, I’m highly susceptible to illness and I’ve reduced my voyages into public places. When I am out, I’ve started wearing a surgical mask and using gallons of hand sanitizer. This story highlights a couple studies showing a mask and hand washing can reduce your chances of getting the flu by 70%-80%.
In an effort to try and keep feeling good, I went to my scheduled haircut on Friday only to start seeing it fall out on Saturday. My guess is within the week I’ll be shaving down. My two business partners have been trying for 13 years to get me to shave my head so I will match them and they’ll soon get their wish. I guess that is a fair trade as they are covering for me while I’m out (I’ve been working when I’ve been up to it). I’ll put some photos up when I shave my head.
I’ve been trying to get out and walk every day it allows me to feel in control. It was hard the first week, but the doctor said its important to stay active and strong in order to avoid some cumulative impact in the late rounds.
Finally, if you have a few free minutes to watch this speech from Stuart Scott at the ESPY awards in 2014 I think you’ll find it inspirational. Especially the 3:05 mark where Scott says, “You beat cancer by how you live, why you live and in the manner in which you live.”
Below the Fig Tree 