Mission Accomplished (almost)

Eye on the Prize

Well, this leg of my journey is coming to an end. Today marks my last full week of treatment and my sixth week of radiation! I will wrap up early next week and hope to be home by the end of the week.

While I have worked in the healthcare industry for 15 years to help improve the patient experience, my experience as a cancer patient has reaffirmed many of the problems that continue to plague healthcare, such as treating patiends like objects or putting the burden on patients to figure out how to patch together a fragmented system. That said, my experience at the Proton Center was positive, especially having witnessed loved ones struggle with traditional radiation. The Proton Center is a remarkable place that is patient-centered, and where I was treated like a human being from the moment I arrived.  

Graduation luncheon

Yesterday, the Center hosted a small graduation for those of us wrapping up treatment in the next few days. They  mentioned that they organize these on a weekly basis to commemorate the ending of treatments, and to provide a marker to break the daily routine many of us have had for six to nine weeks. My graduation included people that ranged from ages 14 to over 70, and from other states, like California and Hawaii.  The Hawaiian graduates were so sweet, one brought leis for all the graduates, and the other brought chocolate covered macadamia nuts. The center gave us each a coin with a unique number, so I am the 2,139th person to complete treatment at the Center. The luncheon and ceremony was a nice gesture that gave us the opportunity to thank our providers and the staff. 

My coin :)

Full of gratitude

As I was reflecting on my comments for the graduation, my heart felt full, especially over the last couple of weeks. I am thankful for my family and friends, and all the positive messages I have received from everyone, including my sister's work family. These really do give me energy to keep pushing through. This week I was also surprised with a few care packages from my IHP family and Blue Shield of California Foundation, and beautiful flowers from Sue and Carol. It really means so much to know people are thinking of me.

What’s next?

I will transition back to the bay over the next week. I have a few weeks off of treatment before starting the next leg of treatment, but before doing so I have an appointment in mid-November to find out how much, if any, of the tumor remains. After that, I will begin a 9 month chemo treatment plan. I’m reminded that this fight is a marathon and not a sprint, but I know that with the support I have received from all of you so far, I GOT THIS. 

Sending each of you lots of love. 

CD