Just an update to let you know how Mitch is doing since his crazy February…

Let me count the reasons to be grateful!

1) Every day since 2/6 is a bonus in our minds…this is not to say they have been easy (just ask Mitch!), but rather to say we are so thankful he is still here.

2) Got to see the total eclipse - pretty amazing.  And even better to sit on John & Donna’s porch across the street and share it together.

3) Avery’s 3rd birthday.  Need I say more.  Just joy.

4) Time with our son Josh & Ryan, their wives Jen & Micaela and Avery and extended family.  Priceless.

5) Mitch and two of his very close friends John and Tom  (see pic)…both of which are navigating their own cancers (not their first rodeos either) - the bond and support they have for each other is deep and with friend Tim who he meets weekly for coffee, great talks, and just plain deep love.  Not to mention some dinners out with Grant & Lisa,  Burt & Marilee & Uncle Bill, Jeanne & Rick and lunch with Tom & Darlene.  It’s nice to start sprinkling in these couple outings  in when we can.  And we are so grateful for some fabulous meals that have been dropped off.  Delicious!

We are still hoping for more energy so Mitch can manage some golf  (I keep telling him the long game is so overrated!).  A few weeks ago we went to Gonzos and he took a few swings - he says it feels like he has never golfed and part of it is getting used to post surgery stomach and of course the colostomy bag.  Happy to report that on the cognitive side Mitch feels SO much better being off the hormone therapy and side drugs.  I think we both had hoped/thought that physically he would have more strength and energy by now.  He is still trying to do workouts daily and he goes for walks.  A nap or rest is usually needed after.  His bone pain is definitely there, but not getting worse. Phew.

He gets more blood work the end of May to see how the PSA is doing without being on treatment.  We know that his testosterone is increasing which is expected since he’s no longer getting the injections.   

We had a great appt with out-patient palliative care earlier this week.  So helpful.  Quality of life brings hope for quality days.  

I know I am a broken record…Good always comes from bad…we have had a lot of good.  I am so thankful to be able to stay in this state of mind and Mitch is a big reason.  He continues to be my hero as he works so very hard to stay grateful/thankful.  I tell him often I am so glad he is still here…oh how that helps him and he is so thankful for this bonus time.

Love to you all…I try to reach out to so many that also are struggling.  If I have not in a while it does not mean my energy is not with you.  Hope you feel it, just like we feel yours.