Q: How do you prepare for the start of 5 weeks of radiation and chemotherapy?
A: Grab a great friend and go rip the local trails on your bike!
With treatment starting at 9am tomorrow morning, it was either cram a ride into the early morning (too cold lately) and be rushed, or don the night lights and get the ride in tonight. My great friend, who underwent serious back surgery less than 10 months ago, came up to my local trail to take the ride with me. We got to a long steep section that I usually hit on the way back down the mountain, and this guy starts CLIMBING it! Haven't ridden up that trail in about 5 years, but it was "time to climb" and he knew it. I was smiling to the top, knowing full well that this trail, like cancer treatment, is just part of the ride. Sometimes you need to be uncomfortable to have true appreciation of life.
We both got back to the trailhead with big smiles - I was happy to be out on the trail knowing what I have to do in 12 hours, while he was reflecting on how well his riding has progressed since his surgery. This guy is a true inspiration to me - less than 4 months after his invasive back surgery, we were mtn biking, kayaking and even skied a few days this season before my ski season ended two weeks ago. He has amazing resolve to return to normal life - that must be where I get it!
My brother's family up in Reno sent me a care package today - you know, the standard cookies, cards, and an X Box! OK, not so standard - pretty amazing actually! I keep asking friends to come by and kick me off the couch if I wilt under the treatment, so they decided an electronic intervention was in order. Now I have my TRX and X Box to stay in shape - one more X and I might not be able to post on this site! I've got great fans up in Reno that I won't let down through this!
Big day tomorrow - work from 5-8a, City of Hope from 9-1 for radiation and chemo and then back to work before my Avalanche Class from 6-10p. What will kick my butt more, that schedule or the cancer treatment? Wish me well - I have too many following my progress to have anything less than a stellar day! Thanks to all of you for your prayers, messages and calls - you are amazing friends and your strength will carry me through.
While I am no wizard on the mountain, I promise to get you off the couch for a spin on the bike. Although, I really can't wait to get you on the pitch for a game of soccer. Or for you 'international' stars, futbol. LOL!!
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing this experience with us and keeping us informed. You are an incredible writer and should really consider becoming a blogger. :)
XO,
Jackie