Set backs are so hard to be friends with; those in your space you are not really drawn to, and may not be ready to allow to be fully present with you. Why are they there? Why are you not drawn to them? In the answers, there is a metaphor, which I'm going to spend time with. I pray for a secure suture, and time--a stitch, and time.... What I know about healing and head injuries is that lack of enough rest delays healing. I found it very hard to truly rest my thought-processing, as even that, is drawing healing energy away from the brain. Sitting quietly and thinking, for a healing brain, is not fully resting.....So hard for us Type A's to get....

Michael, I have another friend who is 75 and going through brain cancer as well. He was diagnosed in June and had his surgery in late July. His post-op setbacks have been horrific, so chin up, you're doing fantastic!

I have always felt it is a gift to be welcomed into accompanying another on his or her journey. I thank you for sharing yours with us. Please know that so many of us are holding you all gently wrapped in our prayers.

You are being wonderful - in all your moments of joy and fear. Thank you for sharing them with us. We are with you!

I'm thinking now about the piece I recorded for you. The mountain isn't in the way, it is the way.

Scott, wonderful reflections. Michael, from my own life experiences, this is where, beyond comprehension, trust and faith really kick in. Thank you for partnering with us to explore this journey with you.

Dear Michael,
This journey is so very moving! These postings you're making about your experiences are a book in the making. Are you listening? You don't have to produce it, just keep recording your experiences and thoughts.
You are reminding me about my experience with Lou Ann. Even though one of the outcomes is not what I wish for you--may you have a long life!--there were things I learned that could scarcely have been learned another way. About the experience of love, mostly. What a journey!
Love, EB

dear Michael, every time I read your caring bridge entries I am truly moved by your ability to have insights that are life changing...for you and for those of us who are reading --- and you still have your sweet sense of humor....I agree with you about baseball....as a Chicagoan, any time the cubbies win is a great day! hey! hey! as jack brickhouse used to say.
I am praying that your leak is fixed soon and your radiation and chemo are 'regular'...regular? nothing regular about those...
peace and deep healing and get rid of those cancer cells!
suzanne

Thanks for your deep sharing Michael. Please know that while it feels as though you might be strictly in the "being held" mode, your powerful words are holding others, and encouraging others, like me, to move with you, and through you, toward deeper appreciation for the struggles we each are dealing with. Imagining all the love that is emanating forth as a result of our mutual intentions is humbling indeed.