The countdown begins.....

Ok, I suppose the countdown actually began several weeks ago when I started this treatment journey. But trying to imagine so many days yet to go, and not knowing for sure what challenges those days would present, it seemed better to just take it day by day. Looking back, that was the only way as my various opponents were just too formidable to look past them to the next game.... In fact, the past several days have been the most challenging yet. The nausea just seems to think it has become a welcome constant companion. Just as soon as the food gets "tubed" in, it seemed to want to keep going up, up and away. Thankfully my floor is clean since that is where I find myself much of the time.

Even so, I just can't help thinking of those others less fortunate who have the same affliction, but no where near the same access to world class medical care. Who can't find even the infrequent relief offered by the pain and nausea meds that I have in abundance. I often flash back to the volunteer trip my brother Tim and I made to Kenya a few years ago and how so many lived in little tin metal "tents", with dirt (mud most of the time) floors and no indoor plumbing. It was tough when they were healthy. I don't want to imagine what this experience would be like if even a portion of that storyline was introduced in the mix. Just so so lucky. And blessed.

But now, with today's treatment completed, I only have 10 more to go. After tomorrow, single digits. Sure, still might have to visit Helk one more time to finish my battle with punk chemo (I say might because I am lobbying to skip it.....and they aren't saying "no" just yet.....but my hopes aren't high for a successful negotiation...), but I think I can now start to see the remaining distance in the tunnel. Even if the rest of my days are like these past ones.....bring it on. The tic toc is getting louder.......

Recovery is a big unknown at this point. How long before I regain a semblance of normal saliva production? How long before I find something that tastes like its not made of metal....and then not cardboard.....and then maybe even close to what I remember it should taste like? How long before I can swallow? How long before I have to say bon voyage to my sexy feeding tube? So many questions...... but boy I can't wait to have those as the focus of my quest.

Does it sound like maybe I left out the question of whether the treatment was successful or not? Well, that's intentional...... there is no other option. None. So why bother asking. :)

Keep the prayers and well wishes coming...you will never fully know how much that has meant to me. Nothing short of everything.