It's been a while since I have updated Andrea Fisher's cancer treatment.
After her last surgery, Andrea was prescribed an aggressive round of radiation and continued chemotherapy. Her team of doctors planned for four weeks of both radiation and chemo, then run tests to see where things are.
Yesterday was Andrea's last round of both radiation and chemo. Treatment is always difficult for her as it leaves her feeling exhausted, physically drained and sore. It's a long week of recovery only to get treatment and fall back into the difficulties of the aftermath.
Having completed treatment, it will be good for Andrea to have a chance to get back into the rhythm of life and family. She has been receiving weekly treatments for several months now and the time away from the hospital will be good for her.
Chemo treatment is a strange and deliberate process that often lasts an entire day. Patients receiving treatment spend a great portion of the day sitting quietly, waiting for their various bags of medicine to slowly drip into their veins through i.v. tubes.
The hours move slowly and, I am sure, it is time for them to reflect and ponder the why and how. I have been lucky to be able to change my work schedule to visit with Andrea almost every week and the time has been special for me.
In our busy lives we rarely have moments of clear perspective and understanding. And my afternoons with Andrea and other visiting friends has reminded me how lucky I am to have Andrea as a friend. As much as she is going through, seeing Andrea manage the everyday of her life, her kids' schedules, her thoughtfulness towards others and her positive and open heart is a gift that I need to always honor.
Although some might think my visits with Andrea have been about my support of her, it actually is more about her support of me and my faith in the importance of this life and the goodness and gratitude that I must always remind myself of; that I so often take for granted.
As much as this last round of radiation and chemo seem like a promising end to a long and difficult journey, there is still some uncertainty as to whether the cancer will be in remission. We are all hopeful for a positive outcome, but there still remains a shadow of uncertainty that is difficult to manage.
The doctors plan to run more tests and scans to see how treatment has gone. Andrea is hopeful and in good spirits but also thoughtful and considerate of all that lies ahead.
She and her family wanted to thank everyone for your good wishes of support and love. Your positive energy is important and meaningful and makes a difference.
