It Begins

Shirley is in the operating room having the first of two surgeries in a row: first, a laproscopic removal of her ovaries and surrounding tissues with extensive testing of the tissues to see that she is cancver free; second, her second mastectomy, this time her left breast. Partially to remove minimal cancer tissue detected and partially as a preventative to ensure she remains cancer free. Seems we have been here before, and done this before. But much more at peace with our decisions and prospect for the future.

The feeling as Shirley was wheeled away down the hall was identical to 30 years ago when Alison went through the OR doors at Canton-Potsdam Hospital for her orthopedic surgery. Helpless, no control, relying on the skill of others. In Shirley's case, wishing that she did not have to go through this again. Wish I could do it for her. Alie and I kissed her, told her we loved her, and sent her on her way. Time will be less than we expected.

Ironic to be sending out COBRA health insurance request this morning. Life has oits twists and turns. My name is on the donor wall downstairs in an institution that stole so much of my life. The important thing is that we have the best doctors, great nurses, and good care. The rest is meaninghless.

A Blessing

Round 2. We are facing a second breast cancer after 27 plus years cancer free. We have been through the rounds of physicians, some who have known Shirley for years as a volunteer helping others. The choices are clear and have been made. Shirley will have a twofer on Monday morning, i.e., laproscopic removal of her ovaries to prevent future ovarian cancer and a second mastectomy to remove her left breast. Alie arrived from L.A. to be with us and to be a caretaker for the next month or so.

And how does this wonderful woman respond. This morning, she has on a shirt she wore during her chemo in 1982-83, which has two pockets and is comfortable post mastectomy. Alison had it in California and brought it home for her. Shirley points it out to me and says: "We are blessed."

I have voiced some anger at God for putting her through this a second time. Alison says that does not jibe with my professed faith. Perhaps she is right. A "special friend" in the rooms echoed our sentiment that "something good must come of this." I have an idea. Time will tell.

Prayers are welcome.