one small sip at a time......

Progress is being made.

Might be very slow, but I can actually feel improvement. Major milestones really...... started to swallow again. Last couple of days have been able to take drinks of water. Had my first sip of soup. Only one sip, maybe two, and my mouth wasn't quite ready yet, but at least I was able to do it. The unexpected body reflex swallows (I didn't even know I did that until this experience....did you?) still hurt, but not nearly as much as before. Went for a hike yesterday. Well, more like a walk on an unpaved road, but all the same, still exercise. Two hours at that (ok, it should have taken half that time), so I really am feeling optimism is warranted.

I have my first post-treatment appointment with my rad doc today. I think its just to check on my progress and to answer any questions, but I am hoping he isn't surprised by anything he sees. Another scan isn't scheduled for a while yet, but I am going to ask why not sooner. Last time we spoke he said the first two weeks wouldn't produce much improvement, but after that things should change. Well, today is the end of the second week, so I guess grocery shopping is on the agenda for tomorrow..... ok, maybe not quite yet.

All in all, I am feeling better. And the better I feel..... the further I get from the pain... the more this experience is a memory.... even more blessed I feel about the life with which I have been gifted. So lucky. I remember thinking 2009 was going to be a great year. Didn't expect this, but it still is a great year in ways I never imagined. Even more so, 2009 Thanksgiving will be very special. As will Christmas. And 2010 is gonna be an awesome year!!!!

Count your blessings my dear friends...... now go be kind to someone.