Michele - I celebrated each word you shared in your first paragraph and was thrilled for you that it is TODAY and you are done with your 16 weeks of Chemo regardless whether you have eyelashes or not. Don't bother with those false ones. You don't need them. You are beautiful exactly the way you are.
Truth be told I started crying hysterically as I read the words in your second paragraph. Aside from the fact that I am the biggest dog lover, I knew your beloved Pepper and I agree wholeheartedly with Ellen and Laurie relative to Pepper holding on until you were finished your chemo. The story that you shared about him waking you up to feed Shira and being your 'partner' all along while nursing Shira wiped me out completely. I am still crying and having difficulty actually seeing what I am typing. So forigve me my friend but I will circle back to the rest of the post a little later. I am way to emotional to make any sense right now other than to tell you that you never cease to amaze me with your courage and your fortitude, your optimisitm and gratitude.
I love you my friend and am so very grateful that it is a new day for you
Karen
In my life, I have never seen a more graceful or gracious person travel the chemo therapy trail. It is filled with rocks, ditches, spikes, traps ,, thorns and holes and our Michele glided over all. She is our champion. We must get her through the next round...radiation. Yet, she is glowing from the inside already. Michele lights us up.
The Hattenbachs love you and know that Pepper is guarding you as he did by your side but now from the heavens above. Of that I am certain. Ellen
Michele, I’m so happy to hear chemo is over! I think of you often and I miss you. I’m going back to work on Monday , it’ won’t be the same with out you ! Remain strong and looking forward to seeing you. Xo Kelly
Michele- I love reading your posts because you find humor on everything . The most positive person I know. It helps that Hoe is a funny guy too. So sorry to hear about Pepper. He was waiting for you to to come home after all this treatments. He knew you well. Best part - he did not suffer much.
I love you Michele and can’t wait to see you in the the mountains soon. Keep up the good work. All my love- djxxx
Hoping you found some comfort in knowing you had all of us here to share that beautiful entry with, Michele (Miche). There is so much wisdom in recognizing endings that connect to new beginnings, and beginnings that open up adventures yet to unfold. It's good to take a moment to recognize that we are in a moment where we are here to take a first step towards What is Next. Today is that kind of a day for you. While you aren't done with all of your treatments, you ARE "post chemo" in a COVID-19 world. And although the loss of Pepper makes today feel weighty in your heart, his end of suffering and your day to start crossing the bridge to reach the end of yours is like a baton pass of unconditional love. Know that we have that for you, too, and will be here through all of this and much more. XOXO
Michele - you are amazing. I am so appreciative and in awe of your positive spirit. I am also so, so sorry about sweet Pepper. The fondest memories. He was loved.