My oncologist says I should celebrate because I finished chemo-heavy and the results seem promising. He mentioned (for the first time — I guess he didn’t want to scare me before) that a certain percentage of patients don’t make it through all six treatments.
I started chemo-light on Wednesday, and so far, so good. I also started a drug called Gabapentin (Neurontin) which is supposed to alleviate neuropathy. It’s been difficult making jewelry with partially numb fingers — the operative words being “slow” and “clumsy” as opposed to my usual quick and agile. Gabapentin, like every other drug I take, has an encyclopedic list of possible side effects. Fingers are crossed (to the best of my ability) that the treatment will work and the bad stuff won’t happen.
The pictures below were taken two months ago but I kept forgetting to post them. Every time I wore that outfit, I got compliments. The past two weeks temps have been in the 90s, and you couldn’t pay me enough money to wear long pants and a knit top — but it was great in May.
Fashion details: In 1969, my boyfriend got us both matching peace sign scarves, 5′ long and pure silk. Zebra knit top is from Chez Mom. There are zebras across the back, too. Pants are rayon, probably early ’90s. These are my favorite style of pants — elastic waist, baggy legs, and pockets. I have eight pairs in different colors of (mostly) ethnic prints. The zebra pattern necklace is here: https://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/Meredithbead/9704919/ and the big hoop earrings are here: https://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/Meredithbead/13183151
My eyebrows and eyelashes are half-gone in these pictures, and they’ve thinned out since then 🙁 Other than that, I love the pics.
I love that outfit! I love zebras (and giraffes, but that’s a different colour scheme). You look dazzling in this, and your post speaks hope and that dazzles me with joy and thanksgiving. I’m continuing to carry you in prayer, every day, every time I pass by my orange and purple Meredith garden, and late into the night. You are so loved. Xoxoxoxo
Sharon, hearing about your garden always makes me happy! Wish I could travel to see your beautiful flowers — and of course, you ♥
You are beautiful inside and out. And so brave. You are my hero.
Aw, thanks, Dee ♥
Only one else thing to say. Mazel Tov.
Thanks Sharon! My oncologist was clapping and had me and Les clap with him. He’s probably the cheeriest oncologist I ever met.
Love that!
Love the look; I’m a black and white girl myself! I’m happy and relieved to hear that all you suffered through had a good outcome and I’m confident that more great news will follow!
xxoo
Michaele, I remember your black and white nail polish to match your summer and winter clothes 😉
Great news on getting through the heavy chemo! I think I remember that top from Mom! Love the outfit on you! Black and white is one of my favorites too! ??
Thanks Iris ♥ It’s a versatile color combination and also goes great with all my brights. I remember one of your houses had a black and white theme.
What a great look, Meredith…so pulled together! Love it!
I also love picturing you and your oncologist and Les clapping together…made me smile. We need more doctors who can do cheerleading!
Good for you, keep it up, brave and beautiful woman! See you real soon! xoxo
thanks Kathy! I think an oncologist sees so much death, that the celebration was for him, too, in a way. Looking forward to our lunch and gallery-ing!
Such a cheery post, Meredith! I Iove it!! I agree your oncologist is a gem! I’ve learned personally that the doc’s attitude has an impact on the patient – the first orthopedic surgeon I consulted was cold and distant–and refused to answer my questions until after I’d scheduled surgery.
I didn’t trust that attitude, so I shopped for a different surgeon and got a new man – experienced but young and just recruited to my area by a major orthopedic group.
My new surgeon is always smiley and positive – and that passes on to everyone around him.
I’m sure the same happens with oncologists.
So yay! Keep smiling and thinking positively – and before you know it you’ll also be done with “chemo light!!”
Blessings and prayers!
Thanks Anne! My first oncologist in 1998 was very paternalistic — he’d answer questions, but was obviously annoyed. Onc #2 was grossly incompetent. #3 was great, but got transferred to a hospital 50 miles away. #4 was fine. I’m lucky I found a good oncologist at the start this time! The right doctor makes such a huge difference.