Five and half weeks ago I was introduced to Betsy.

Unbeknownst to me, she had been making herself right at home in my pelvis for the last two years.  Shortly after we were introduced, I learned her last name was Sarcoma…as in the same family of Sarcomas that have visited me over the last 20 years.

Needless to say, the weeks leading up to today have been nuts.  Like crazy nuts.  Crazy, CRAZY nuts!!

Betsy’s Eviction Plan is now in play, starting with a 5-week Radiation Diet…she’s a little overweight at the moment and needs to drop a few pounds before phase 2 can begin.  25 days.  Everyday Monday through Friday at 3:15.  One down, only 24 more to go!

Today was longest of treatments day, an hour and a half or so…setting up alignment; getting lots of interesting drawings and x’s placed on me; meeting with the doctor.  But the day was promptly commemorated with a Taste of France at Scopo Divino; getting my hair did; a little more wine; some pizza; and Bridget Jones.   Not a bad day, considering.

But the highlight of the day was seeing my most favorite nurse ever, Nurse LuDene.  I’ve gotten to know her over the last four years or so as I have had my follow up appointments with Dr. Gottschalk, my radiation oncologist.  I’ve always thought her to be super fabulous, but she now holds an even more special place in my heart, because she was the one that really got things rolling for me when the UCSF folks were floundering a bit on what to do with this latest development in my case.

I got her a mug with the saying, “I’m a nurse.  What’s your superpower?”

I brought it to my appointment today, not knowing for sure whether or not she would be there today…but she was. 🙂

Shortly after I arrived, she showed up in the waiting room and gave me the biggest hug ever.  I told her, “I have something for you.”  And she responded with, “Well, I have something for you too.”  She left the waiting room, and came back holding a package behind her back…she had made me a beautiful fleece throw!  Sweetest thing ever.  EVER.

This is a journey that I’ve not been quite been on before.  It’s new.  It’s scary.  And it’s uncertain territory.  But I’m pretty sure I’m up for the challenge. 🙂

Better watch out, Betsy.