A “New” Chapter Begins Today

My day started off with a dark and dreary drive (so much so I expected to see the first snowflake of the season) to Grand Rapids, to continue evaluation for a bone marrow transplant. Every meeting done, every box checked, is one step further in the process. It was a lot, but at the same time, it reassured me that we can do this transplant thing. We can’t do it alone and will need help, but we can do it.

After soaking in every bit of information I could from physical therapy, nutrition, and social work, I walked through the hallways of the cancer pavilion and tuned into the piano that was playing “Amazing Grace”. I stood by the elevator and hoped the door wouldn’t open right away, as I soaked in the calming tones and tunes of that song. It was only by God’s grace that I stood there today.

After the appointments, I headed straight home to grab Dan, so we could head to my first chemo treatment. Driving to the cancer center once again, felt incredibly surreal. We never imagined being in this position again. The people there are wonderful, but I was hoping to see them street side, not bedside again. I walked in as a familiar face, and cozied into an all too familiar chair. Every person who walked by, was about just as shocked to see me there, as I was. But there we were. Walking the cancer road again.

We are so humbled and grateful that my former doctor was willing to take me on again, so that I could have treatments done locally. The closer you are to home, the more like home it feels, which makes the journey not as daunting. We were greeted with smiles, hellos, and positive attitudes. I couldn’t bear to watch that IV needle go in, realizing there was no turning back. Usually my eyes are glued and intrigued. But this time, it was also difficult. Watching the fluids drip in, it marked the moment of a new journey.

But a journey I am ready for. The first treatment went well (I slept through half of it) and proceeded to take another solid nap when we got home, but this is why cancer is my #1 job right now. To fight this with all I’ve got. And you better believe it, this girl ain’t goin’ down without a fight! And my family is fighting right alongside with me.

Thank you for praying us through today. We did it. Day #1 complete. A day we saw coming, but never imagined that it would. This week will be over before we know it; then the chemo pill. And then hopefully, Lord-willing, I will be set to have a BMT soon. We leave today and rest knowing God provided just what we needed for every moment. And we know that this will only continue because that is who our God is!

HERE WE GO!