It's been a while...

[greatbear]

...since I have posted anything in my LiveJournal. Well, my hopes for a better year than the last have been dashed upon finding out that Mom has lung cancer. Couple that with the fact that I have been off of work on disability since Thanksgiving and this year is shaping up quite a kick in the teeth.

Mom is a tough old gal of 78 who has never been sick outside of colds or flu her entire life. She remains active to this day, having taken seemingly countless trips around the world since her retirement in '92. While not quite as active as she was 10 years ago, she still can put people 30 years her junior to shame with her stamina, abilities and general spunk. Couple this with the fact that the cancer was found in an early stage and she has a good chance of beating it. It's not going to be easy. And it's not without risk. She'll be receiving a one-two punch of chemo and radiation, and after a short recovery, she will undergo surgery to remove the affected areas of her lung. And after another short recovery a return to the radiation and chemo, ending with radiation treatments to the brain in an effort to blast out any part of the disease trying to seek refuge there.

It's quite a lot to ask of a little old lady.

She's seen it all, being a concentration camp survivor, a member of the U.S. Army (yeah, my Mom wore combat boots, so did Dad, and I'm an Army brat), a single mom since I was 5, and everything in between. This is not the way she wanted to spend her retirement years.

Ah well.

I will do my best to see her through these treatments, put on a game face and make life as comfortable as I can for her. She deserves nothing less. She's been more than just a mother to me throughout the years, she's been a friend that I can talk candidly about countless subject. Her optimism has pulled me outta some bad times in my life, and she takes no shit from me, or anyone else.

That night upon getting the news from the doctor, seeing her asleep in her bed, she seemed so fragile, alone, and vulnerable. Never before had I felt this. It ripped my heart out.

She seems to be in good hands with the doctors and staff at the University of Maryland Medical Center. It was very comforting to find that everyone we dealt with is not only good at what they do, but have a professionalism and 'bedside manner' that is second to none. After dealing with the surly staff of our basically do-it-yourself medical 'care' facilities here in Columbia, the feeling of comfort and hope they give you there is a relief.

I hope all goes well. I have been reading lots of different LiveJournal postings from those on my ever-expanding list of friends, and just getting glimpses into their lives, good and bad, gives me a perspective from which to approach things. Not to mention, it's entertaining when needed. And I need a lot of positives in my life right now.

Thanks to all of the wonderful people on my LJ Friends list. Rarely a day goes by that I dont check in at least once. and thanks to baeritone for the recent trip through memory lane. That brought a needed smile to my face.

My blog will undoubtedly become a diary of Mom's life now as well as mine. Wish her well.

Comments

[kitchenbeard.livejournal.com]

My best to you. In 2001 I found myself in a similar situation. Laid off from my job and mom facing cancer. In the end it afforded me the chance to be there for her in her final days and be her care taker. I wouldn't trade that time for the world because I felt like I had the chance to give back a microscopic amount of what she had given me.

[musicmanchicago.livejournal.com]

sorry about your moms sugar..... *crosses fingers and knocks on wood*

[aadroma.livejournal.com]

I'm hoping the best for your mother.

Sorry to hear about all of this. (HUG)

Genuine OtterHugs™

[leatherotter.livejournal.com]

*hugs* Wish I could think of something more to do or say other than letcha know I'll be watching out for you here and anywhere else I might run into you.

[thepozlife.livejournal.com]

I'm glad to hear that she is receiving good medical care. Sending you and your mother positive thoughts.

[madlizard.livejournal.com]

*hugs* I'm sorry to hear of you mom's situation. I hope everything goes well.

ditto.

[disccub.livejournal.com]

Sorry to hear about your mom. Sounds like she is a fighter. From what little I know of your (through LJ), just as she was there for you, you can show your strength and be there for her.

You (both) will remain in my thoughts and prayers.

[standardtom.livejournal.com]

With your love, help, and support, combined with her own determination, I'm hoping your mother will come through this just fine.

My great-aunt had been essentially given up for dead by her doctors, but she was going strong shortly after that. Attitude can make a big difference.

And I hope your own situation improves dramatically too.

[beg1n.livejournal.com]

Positive thoughts and prayers for you and your Mom.

[baeritone.livejournal.com]

Take care of your mom, my friend - and remember to also take care of yourself. If you need to get away for a few days, come visit or plan a trip with us, if your back is up to it; if you just need a shoulder, say the word and Paul and I'll come running. *hug*

Just found out...

[disccub.livejournal.com]

Happy Birthday!

Re: Just found out...

[greatbearmd.livejournal.com]

Aw shux... yer too kind! Thanks :)