My forces of nature

Last night was a good night. For the first time since this shadowland began, I went to sleep with a feeling of relief and a quiet mind. I knew my situation was little different, but my green mood had resurfaced just a little. Weather wise it had been a fine and warmer day.

But it hadn’t just been about the weather. It had been about relationships, friendships and love of family. We spent lunch with our wonderful friends of 50 + years chatting about all things important: children, grandchildren, careers, holiday plans – only mentioning this illness once but not deliberately ignoring it.

We returned home for an expected phone call about an appointment with the oncologist hopefully next week but nothing came, so I tried phoning and left messages. But I shouldn’t have worried! My daughters, who are forces of nature, had been on the case all day, researching oncologists, e-mailing them and their secretaries. PALS had been contacted for advice and to inform, the Macmillan co-ordinator team in Barnsley had been phoned and filled in.

By early evening some plans were in place. It appears that my case is complex. No-one at the Wednesday meeting wanted to make a decision since there is no obvious tumour in the breast, yet histology seems to support that brain mets are from breast cancer.

So, by teatime yesterday, my forces of nature, having joined up with the co-ordinator here in Barnsley, have sorted that my notes, samples etc are being taxied to Weston Park, Sheffield on Monday morning to be further investigated by a team there and scrutinised even more thoroughly so that the correct guide be found for my particular cancer treatment. It is hoped an appointment will be in place for next Wednesday.

In the meantime, I’m being plied and encouraged to join in with alternative therapies and complementary medicines by my girls to bolster my immune system and calm my spirit. I feel well. I have always been blessed with good health. And so:

The inevitable waiting begins and I pray for patience. Max might be pleased if I get my “Haven’t you done it yet?” attitude sorted.

Pauline
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