Giving Thanks

Where to begin? So very many things to be thankful for this year. Let's start
with the great news.

My lymphoma is not in my bone marrow...and my LDL's (a protein I think, but
don't quote me) are normal.  Those results go on the positive side of my
prognosis ledger.  It was just so relieving to get a test back that indicated something about me right now is...normal.  Normal is fantastic.

I am so thankful for my medical oncologist, Dr. Timothy Kasunic...he has been
called the captain of my ship.  I love him.  I knew I did not need a second
opinion after he and his team fast-tracked me for treatment during my very first
appointment.  His positive approach and ability to explain things in manageable
terms has made a believer out of me...and a mere two weeks ago I didn't know
what I believed.  I am by nature a very upbeat person...even my blood type is A
positive...and somewhere my husband has the paperwork to prove it.  But I did
not know what to feel when I learned my body had betrayed me.  No symptoms...no
fatigue, night sweats, fever or weight loss.  Nothing.  Just a diagnosis of
cancer.  How could that be?  Doesn't matter anymore.  I am looking forward.

I am so very grateful to my bosses...Andy and Nathan...and all my
co-workers who bouyed my spirits tremendously by telling me...do whatever it
takes to get healthy again...don't worry about work.  I don't worry about
work...but I do miss it a lot...and I want to get back to my "normal" schedule
as soon as I can.  My doctor highly recommends it as part of my therapy...and I
concur.

Enormous thanks to my morning radio partner Rick...the brunt of what I am
incapable of doing will fall on him.  As much as we love it, Christmas on the
River brings with it a lot of extra activities this time of year.  And because
right now I am supposed to avoid crowds, Rick will be on his own at things like
tree lightings, The TranSiberian Orchestra, and a lot of other holiday events
where I can only attend in spirit.  And since we both know it is no fun doing a
radio show alone, thank you to all the folks who have been filling in for me and
keeping Rick company during this "most wonderful time of the year".

And finally, from deep in my heart...thank you to my family and friends...and
all the listeners.  I feel humbled but also empowered by your faith in me to
beat this thing.  I don't want to let any of you down.  Which means, at no time
will I give up. 

Emails and cards have been arriving daily from supporters out there in
radioland...and have sent my soul soaring.  Thank you for surrounding me with
love and affection.  As my friend, Ellen, pointed out to me recently...with the
legions of people sending me prayers, well wishes, good karma, strong vibes and
mojo...whatever you want to call it...the cancer doesn't stand a chance.

My husband found this quote...about a month ago...and it really hits home for
me.  "Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some sort of
battle."