I Survived Chemo. But I Didn’t Do It Alone.

I had my last chemo infusion on October 28th. Twenty-one days later I was officially done. I had to rely on an inner strength I didn’t know I had. But this post isn’t about that. This is about you. You the people who went on this journey with me. You the ones I was so afraid to tell. I want to make sure you know how much you all mean to me.

So here’s a list of thank yous. I’m sure I’ve inadvertently missed some. Please don’t think it was any less appreciated.

First and foremost, thank you to my momma for being absolutely amazing. She put her life on hold to keep mine going. I’m not always the easiest patient, especially on steroids. But she was always there for me.

Thank you to the chemo nurses. They are the most compassionate, attentive, and beautiful people I’ve ever encountered. They listened, gave me practical advice, and acted as my advocates. And we even managed to have some great conversations and a few laughs.

Thank you to my family–immediate and extended. Everyone responds to these things differently. And I saw the love, concern, and care from each person. It wasn’t missed.

Thank you everyone who sent me goodies. Chocolate. Sweet-and-sour candies. Steak. Meals. Desserts. It was all so good! Thank you also to everyone who offered, even if I didn’t ultimately take you up on it. The offers were still appreciated.

Thank you to everyone who sent me cards. It was a nice change from the medical bills. We displayed them in my dining room. It looked a card shop and seeing them all together was amazing.

Thank you to everyone who sent me flowers. The house looked and smelled wonderful. And it was lovely to have something fresh and pretty.

Thank you to everyone who came to visit. I know that option was limited due to COVID-19, but I appreciate the limited, safe visits.

Thank you to everyone who messaged, texted, commented, or otherwise asked how I was doing, sent me comics, and prayed for me. It was a morale booster.

Thank you to everyone who purchased a #FarmersDaughterStrong shirt or bracelet. Seeing people wear these items was inspiring.

Thank you to everyone who helped with Mischa. There were only a few days she didn’t get walked. And just giving her attention made things easier.

Thank you to everyone at work who made things easier for me. After the way my last firm treated me, you’ve reminded me that having the right coworkers is so important. And a sepcial shout out to my secretary for making my work life easier.

Thank you to everyone who prayed for me. God is answering those prayers.

I know I’ve missed people. But I hope everyone knows how much the support and love meant during this chemo journey. My cancer journey isn’t over yet, but I feel like I can handle it because I have all of you in my corner.

So thank you.