Board games and patience

So any of you in Alberta would know that I've not posted because it's just been too cold for the past number of days ;)  Actually, I've been doing pretty well since the last post.  FYI we did get to the Keg last week and I enjoyed a helping of ribs to celebrate.  Had a slow start physically and emotionally last Thursday - ironically had very little sleep after the drains came out, with more healing needed to find a comfortable position to sleep in.  Emotionally I think the whirlwind of life changes in the past month smacked me across the face while I wasn't looking. Since then gradually have been getting better sleep, mentally stronger, and experiencing more range of motion.  

The boys slept over at mom and dad's Friday so we had some good fun playing board games and drinking hot chocolate, true healing activities when you have 2 fun boys making you laugh constantly.  I am lucky that my twin nephews love going to their Nana and Papa's so much...and they think Auntie Tricia is okay too (I never let them win anything on purpose).

I had a couple other visits from good friends, watched the Stampeders win the Grey Cup with mom and dad Sunday, and mom and I did the final steps for my condo sale (including a miraculous search and find mission for a broken light fixture in terrible road conditions) which closed today.  It's actually been pretty busy, with rests inserted as necessary.

No word yet on the pathology from my surgery.  I called this afternoon and apparently the pathologist is still working on it.  Once that's ready I'll meet with my surgeon and then get referred back to the Tom Baker for next steps.  He'll also check out how my incisions are healing and let me know what he thinks I can do for activity.  On my list of questions for him will no doubt be the likelihood of me heading to Maui in just about a month ;)

Having cancer multiple times over 17 years has built my reserve of patience fairly well.  While no one likes to do it, it's a bit like many sports.  You have to practice to get better at it.  Thanks everyone for your continued support - happy December :)

Drains out and move done!

Big day.  Move finished - moving guys came at 9 AM and finished 3 hours later....and remarkably contrary to weather forecasts, NO snow fell during their work!  I practically hid in a closet during the process, as I have a phobia of moving and hanging pictures (no kidding) and with my inability to lift more than 5 lbx. I was pretty useless anyway.  Mom and Dad did last minute handiwork to breakdown furniture into pieces and I was so relieved when we closed the door.  A couple more days until possession and then that big item is off the list.

Straight from my condo mom and I headed to the hospital to get my drains out :) :) :) A little discomfort and minutes later I was free... that will reduce my pain considerably going forward.  AND make showering and sleeping soooo much easier.  Just enjoy your shower tomorrow - we don't know how lucky we are to just be able to shampoo and cleanse with no issue!

Without drains, my physio continues to escalate now, to increase my range of motion and evenutally be able to drive etc.  My incisions are also still in healing mode, and any activiity will really help that process too.  Next big step will be follow up appointment with Dr. Graham likely next week to go over pathology results and connect with the oncology team about whatever else I need to do.

But for now, another important phase done.  Move - check. Drains - check.  Combined with one week since surgery and 17 years tomorrow since transplant #1, I feel I have no issue justifying dinner at the Keg.  

Cheers