It has been a long spell since the last writing.
This afternoon I took the third treatment of chemo in the pill form – four pills once a week. I have had no side effects, which has been great. All the lesions which received radiation are in a state of healing. Two still need a bit to go, but they too are making good progress. I have had two new lesions since radiation but they have not grown, and perhaps even have begun to heal, since I started taking the chemo.
A week ago, I had a visit from my sister (Maureen), brother-in-law (Rick) and their son and my godson (Brohan). The Brennans live in PEI. It was great to have their visit. While I was here, we visited with the families of two cousins as well. Another Brennan nephew, Braeden who is a student in Ottawa, is coming this week for a few days.
I continue to live in the reality of “Cancer is everywhere” theme. Last Saturday, I attended the funeral of Gary Murphy in Richmond Hill. Gary, a year older than I am, grew up in Summerside and died from colon cancer. A couple of days previous to this, we learned the very sad news that Jim Webb, our Jesuit provincial, has cancer. He has resigned his position. I lived and worked with Jim in Jamaica, and have great admiration of him. I just heard this morning that a very good friend of my mother’s received a diagnosis of cancer. The Earth has cancer.
I recall a night dream that I had a couple of weeks ago which clearly indicated that I was experiencing my body as a prison, and was living with the anxiety that I may or may not be released from prison. It was one of those dreams that when I woke, I knew exactly what it meant. I have to say that as the lesions heal and I am in less pain, I feel this less.
My energy has improved, so I find I am a bit busier. As I get more energy back, my life can get busy enough without me even intending it to do so. One of the gifts of this journey has been the message that came along with it, to slow down. Like Martha of the gospel, I am being told that I can fret about many things and miss the most important. My intention is to better live this slower pace even when I recuperate. It may take some effort on my part as old habits die hard!
I had an appointment with a naturopathic doctor, who is also a friend. He recommended some changes in my eating habits, and gave me some supplements as well. The supplements are easy to take; the eating habits are a challenge to implement!
Margie Gillis said:
Jim, thinking of you and sending blessings to you each day! I am glad to hear the hope in your message. Very sorry to here the news of Gary Murphy’s passing. Gary was my St. F.X. classmate. Will be personally praying for Jim Web. You all are in the prayers of our Dufferin Peel Catholic Family. I have placed your name in our book of intentions. Blessings of health and well-being be yours in the days ahead. Your courage in sharing this journey is a great witness in trust. May you feel the embrace of the prayers and support of many far and near. Blessings. Margie G.
peter and barbara peloso said:
Dear Jim, We continue to hold you in our hearts and in prayer. This is such good news to hear that you are starting to feel better. We look forward to seeing you when we return. Love and blessings. Peter and Barbara
Susanne DeCrane said:
Hi Jim
Richard S. got us linked into your blog. Like you, I’m too old for blogging!!! However, I’d love to connect with you off the blog if you are so inclined. You’ve had quite a journey and more to come, I’m sure. Know that Brian and I hold you dearly and pray for good for you.
Wendy Profit said:
Just thinking of you today James, Glad to see that you are feeling much better. Its been a while since I checked in , so it was a good feeling to read your Feb update, Hard to slow down in this life when there is so much to do, and as we get older, seem to have so little time.. Take care
Wendy & Phonse
Moragh Lippert said:
Jim I am thrilled to hear you are feeling more energy! Regarding nutrition, it is all worth it. Good for you for addressing this. It is known in Holistic Nutrition that sugar feeds cancer and that is one of the most addictive substances man has made. Hippocrates was so right when he said “let food by thy medicine and medicine thy food”. Brilliant. Wishing you harmony, love and light. Moragh