The Finish Line

“Celebrate good times, come on!!”  This was the imaginary music playing in the background on Friday, the wonderful day we crossed the finish line!  The night before, my friend Mark, who does hair, trimmed and shaped my 2 inch long hair, adding a bit of color to camouflage the skunk stripe.  

I decided to leave the wig behind as I started this new chapter.  My friend Christi picked me up for my last radiation treatment.  When we got to her car, it was filled with friends coming along to celebrate.  They were all very complimentary about my short hair, saying that pixie cuts were all the rage these days, and how they all wished they had one.  It was really, really nice of them to say such kind things, since I was very unsure and insecure about my first public appearance without a wig. 

My last radiation treatment was fast.  Next, I saw the doctor. She said my skin looked great.  I was just a little pink, but have had no burning.  She said to continue the skin care routine for the next two weeks, and come back in 6 weeks for a follow up.  She gave me a big hug and told me "Congratulations."  

I see the chemo doctor and physical therapist on Monday, and the surgeon next Friday.  In a few weeks I’ll start Tamoxifen, the medication I’ll be taking for the next 10 years.  It’s a med to block the hormones that feed my type of cancer.  I’ll find out next week what the rest of my schedule will be.  I know they’ll watch me close, and at least every 6 months will do mammograms or ultrasounds. 

So, back to the celebration.  After finishing with the doctor, I walked into the waiting room and let out a big “Woo hoo” with my arms up in the air.  My cheering section stood up and started clapping.  We then had the friendly receptionist take our photo, before we headed off to lunch.   

Gretchen, who knows every patient by name
and always greets with a big smile.

At the restaurant, we were met by a huge crowd of friends.  It was so fun being surrounded by many of my church family sisters and kids not in school.  They have been an amazing support through this whole process, and helped make each step along the way into a party. 

My day was filled with numerous texts, Facebook well wishes, and phone calls.   When the party bus dropped me off at home, I was greeted by a decorated front door with fun messages, and then a decorated room inside.  Heath made signs, purchased flowers, and decorated my bathroom mirror.  That night, we celebrated with dinner at a Mexican Restaurant—one of my favorite kinds of food. 

It was a wonderful day, and a wonderful way to celebrate the final step of this adventure.  The fatigue will continue for the next couple of weeks, but the adrenalin from crossing the finish line will carry me through!  My heart is full of thanks!  We can do all things through Christ.  I’m so thankful for His help, comfort, and strength; and for his earthly angels that have been by my side this entire time.  Scott, my favorite angel, has been amazing as coach and team captain.  Life is a joy ride!