Wednesday and Thursday I had my quarterly visit to M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. These trips are always a bit nerve racking as one goes through the blood drawing, x-rays, CT scan, and MRI. But bitterly sweet is the fact that that you are not alone. As I visited each of the clinics I was one of many. As we wait for our turn we each share our war stories with this disease. Some are just entering the process and coming to grips with the fact they have been diagnosed with some form of cancer. Others have been through radiation and/or chemotherapy and give their experiences, encouragement and empathy.
One spunky woman had a success story of 19 years with no recurrence. She is 69. And she made the announcement that she was sick of the check-ups, the barium drinks, and the clanging of the MRIs. She proclaimed she would come one more year for the 20th anniversary and then was going to not worry about it again. Her husband said, “That ain’t happening.” She sighed and grinned and said it is worth the trip for the peace of mind. From this writer's perspective one can deal with the diagnosis and prognosis. It is just the time leading up to hearing the message from the doctors.
I received a great report! I am NED – No Evidence of Disease. Blood counts were excellent. The lines at the airport, the crowded flights from Houston and Dallas were really no big deal.
These quarterly trips are reminders of the fragility of life and blessing of knowing the Great Physician.
It is going to be a great summer of '08.
2 comments:
Hey Robb-let me be the first to tell you congratulations on your NED. You are a blessed man and friend and I am blessed in knowing you. I am thoroughly enjoying your blog.
Big Bob
Yea! I am glad to hear about the good report!
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