What a week

I've had a very hard time writing this next posting. Partly because I started school on Monday and there just hasn't been a lot of time, but also because I experienced a lot of emotions this week and I've struggled with how to express what I've been feeling. Even now, as I'm writing, so many thoughts are running through my head. So many of the little moments, the interactions I've had with colleagues and students that I experienced this week have affected me in such a huge way. The small gestures of support and encouragement that I received throughout this week from colleagues and students have made me feel so good. They brought tears to my eyes and I find myself getting choked up thinking about all of the love and kindness that people have gone out of their way to send to me. It makes me feel truly blessed. This week, students and colleagues have come up to me to give me hugs. Not just a pat on the back, but real strong, meaningful hugs. Sometimes a hug says so much more than words. I've found notes and little pictures on my desk at school. They always brighten my day. Books, hats and other items were also given to me. I appreciate all of these thoughtful gestures. They have shown me how much people care about me. That feels good and it will undoubtedly give me the strength and the will to get through the tough times that are ahead.

I am also reminded that other people are going through very difficult times in their own lives. Everyone has obstacles thrown at them sometime in their lives. I am dealing with my own now, but I am reminded of obstacles that I have had to overcome, like when my own father passed away at the age I am now. Old emotions that I had buried are resurfacing as I think about my own children or some students who are dealing with their own illness or that of a family member. 

I guess the one thing that stands out from this past week is that I can honestly say that I truly love my job, the place I work, Glenbrook North High School, my colleagues and my students. I don't think I've ever realized how happy that place makes me feel. I know how fulfilled I have been teaching there for the past ten years and I never thought I took it for granted. I've always appreciated every aspect of working at GBN, but I know that now I have an even deeper appreciation.

This has been a great week. Of course, I haven't had chemo since August 17th and everyday that passes I feel stronger and stronger.  It's good to see how quickly my body bounces back. On Monday, I was back at school. I was so happy to get back to work, to see my colleagues and to meet my new students.  I was a bit anxious because I knew that many of them were just finding out what I was going through and that when they saw me, it would be apparent. Shortly after our first meeting I realized that there was no reason to be anxious. Everyone greeted me with such warmth and love. On Wednesday and Thursday, I met my new students. I did my best to break the ice quickly about my situation and I was so impressed how well they all responded to the news. I'm glad I had the opportunity to connect with my students. They truly energized me this week and I can't wait to get back. 

Lastly, Tuesday was my day at the University of Chicago.  First, I had an appointment in radiology for CT scans of my head, neck and chest. Then, I met with my ENT doctor for a post surgery check up. At this appointment, I received some very encouraging news.  The doctor was able to compare the scans I had in July with those I had just taken that morning. She looked at the lymph nodes from both scans and determined that they had shrunk by about 25%.  Needless to say, I was very pleased. The last appointment I had was with my oncologist to go over the logistics of the next part of my treatment; the WO WO treatment (week on, week off) and it begins this Sunday.

My Treatment Schedule

Beginning Sunday, I will go into the hospital for five nights and given 3 different chemo drugs and radiation twice daily.  If everything goes as planned, the dates I will be admitted to the hospital are: 8/29, 9/12, 9/26, 10/10, and 10/24.  On the off week, I will be at home and I will have clinic appointments to go to on Tuesdays.