Journal entry by Beth White —
Today is Dennis’ 12th day of chemo/radiation therapy. We are a little less than halfway through this phase of treatment. This is an every day process, Monday through Friday of Dennis going to the Abramson Cancer Center. He takes the oral chemo pill morning and evening each of these five days a week of radiation treatment. The bulk of the time is getting him positioned correctly for the radiation. He also meets with doctors some days while down there, does bloodwork and vitals, etc. Some other things that take time are dealing with the mechanics of the machine. The first day, for instance, the machine was broken and so his treatment was delayed until the following day. At present, they got him positioned and ready to go but now are waiting on engineers to fix something mechanical. Patience is a virtue. Dennis has managed to get to know all the nurses and technicians and has mentioned how nice everyone is down here.
Generally he is very fatigued after the treatment each day. Thankfully the fatigue subsides on Saturdays and Sundays on his “days off”.
I got to see the machine today where it all goes down. Super cool; pic included. Then outside on the walls, I read some of the highlights of the proton program at Penn and kind of marveled at the fact that we live here in Philly and are able to receive this cutting edge treatment.
Last, we enjoyed a very nice Easter with Dennis’ parents in town from California. Also his sister and niece visited a couple of days last week from New Hampshire and we squeezed in a visit to Longwood Gardens. 🌸
We remain extremely grateful for your ongoing support that has shown up in a variety of ways: for relatives and friends who sent Easter candy and treats for the kids, for Giant gift cards from neighbors, the meals that keep coming, the healthy foods prepared by dedicated friends for Dennis, the Novena and enrollment cards sent promising masses to be said for Dennis and our family. We are extremely humbled to have received donations from friends and family as well.
Thank you for walking along this path with us.
Each day is its own adventure.
This Easter season gives us the great gift of HOPE. Waking up and walking downstairs to the scent of Easter flowers brings both feelings of nostalgia of past Easters and also excitement for the newness of the next season - Easter and Spring.
There are signs of new life sprouting up and the kids take joy in the little things. John Paul has been keeping track of how many flowers have opened up of the seven daffodils planted in front.
Much love from our family to all of you this Easter!
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