I can still hear the sound of the rain that was pounding on the windows when I sat down to write my first blog entry. It seems appropriate now that as I write my last entry, it is quiet. I decided about two months ago that my last blog entry would be on the anniversary of my diagnosis. Here we are, one year later. I am officially a “One Year Cancer Survivor”.
I thought I would throw in another Q & A to help wrap things up.
Q – Am I cancer free?
A – Let’s hope so. My oncologist tells me that it will be ten years before we know if all the treatments worked. One down, nine to go.
Q – If I could change the events of the past year, would I?
A – Strangely enough, no. I’m a strong believer that everything happens for a reason. I think cancer is one of the best things that has ever happened to me. After the past year, I can say that life seems richer than ever before.
Q – If I had to do it all again, would I?
A – Yes, in a minute.
Q – What kind of testing or appointments will I have from here on in?
A - I will continue to see my oncologist every 9 weeks for the next 2 years. I will continue with my Herceptin infusions until June. I will be taking Tamoxifen for 5 years. I will have annual mammograms; the next one being February 23rd.
Q – Will I have my tattoos removed?
A - No. They’re a good reminder for me on how precious life is.
Q – Will I miss writing in my blog?
A – Yes, but seeing as things are getting back to normal, what would I write about? ‘Today I had soup for lunch. Andrew had a hockey game tonight. I baked cookies for Valentine’s Day.’ I’ll spare you from all those boring details.
Q – How will you know what’s happening to me?
A – Call me, e-mail me, drop by.
I have to take this last opportunity to thank all of you for ‘getting on the bus’. You were part of my therapy; you kept encouraging me and kept me moving forward. I will be forever grateful.
To Steve, who endured more than anyone, no words can ever describe how much you mean to me. Happy Valentine’s Day.
Thank you.
The end.
me
8 comments:
Kim - this is my favourite posting of all.
I'm so happy for you and your family.
Wendy Waldie
Kim,
Thanks for writing your blog. It seems like yesterday it all started. I know the strength and grace you showed throughout the past year have made this bus ride less bumpy for all the passengers who've hitched a ride along the way. The bus ride never ends, you've just gone through a section with pot holes this past year, and I hope the rest of the ride is on fresh pavement.
By the way can the driver please kick this deviant little fellow with the cancer name tag off the bus please, his fare has run out.
With Love,
Chris
Dear Kim:
Just wanted to let you and Steve know how PROUD we are of you.
God bless you both..
My Hero...
Love always
Mom and Dad
Kim,
Congratulations on this milestone. Number 10 will be here before you know it.
I'll be counting with ya!
Colleen
How will I get my Horoscope updates now?
Keep Smiling....;)
Dear Kim,
Thank you for sharing your journey. It has been an honour being "on the bus" with you this past year.
I agree that everything happens for a reason. Please know my life will be forever changed thanks to you.
I am so proud to say I know a "One Year Cancer Survivor".
Be Well.
Carla
Kim,
I have read your blog weekly and have been praying for you.(i found it through your sister in law) I really think you should contact someone at Cancer Canada (or whatever they call it) to tell them about this blog for other people. It really was so eye opening and I could think of nothing better to say to someone as they are so scared at the start of the journey.. here is someone who went through it.. read all about it. I know i have told many people about it and it has changed lives. I am so glad to hear that you are cancer free and back to work..
Congrats Kim, I can't believe that was a year ago. You are truly an inspiration to all of us. I think you should write a book of your blogs. Tell the boys I say hi.
Katie
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