Penultimate Chemo

Well here we are, the penultimate chemo treatment...number five, with the sixth (and final) one in three weeks. I can't believe how quickly this whole process has flown by.

My recovery from the last chemo was fortunately uneventful. I had my usual slump on the Monday post chemo, then started to pick up on the Wednesday, and fortunately was almost back to normal by the Friday. The last two weeks were busy, and consequently before we knew it, we were back at Peter Mac for treatment today! I got back to walking and exercise as soon as I was up to it, and I feel sure that this is helping with the speed of my recovery. It has, for the most part, been perfect weather for walking in my favourite haunt...the glorious Royal Botanic Gardens. We have joined many friends for lots of lunches and dinners. We have been to movies and live shows, and have caught up at other times with friends.

Edie, our beautiful granddaughter, invited us to her kinder for her special Shabbat - where she had decided the dress code (pyjamas) for the kids - and she brought her favourite Shabbat items from home to show and describe to the other children. Abby, our oldest granddaughter, invited us, together with Mum, to grandparents' day at Mount Scopus, where we toured a number of activities and spoke with her teacher. So much fun and naches.

My resolve has been constantly strengthened by my wonderful husband, my beautiful children and grandchildren. Their love and support has been enduring and unconditional. I love them dearly.

Harry and I have been planning some treats to look forward to after my last treatment. A week over the Christmas period at Daylesford with our dear friends is locked in. It is always great fun, and is something we really look forward to greatly. This year Harry will take over as head Barista with Phil Borden as sous chef.

Gwinganna in January is also in our sights. Then (hopefully) off to New York in April to see the kids, followed by a possible trip to Hawaii with the whole family.

Today I had a really special treat. I Face Timed with Lulu and Dash (and Romy and Leon) in New York at the start of my chemo. It warmed my heart to see them both so happy, and how enthusiastic Dash was about his day at school. He excitedly told me about how a Native American ritual promotes healing for their loved ones, and how he had transferred these learnings through his thoughts to me.

Today has not gone as smoothly as previous chemo sessions.  Poor start (an hour late), inexperienced nurse, headache and mild nausea. However, I was fortunate to have an amazing (and very calming) foot massage again (from the volunteer masseur) and was very much uplifted by a lunchtime visit from our gorgeous son, Gary. I am pleased to report that after arriving home and having a snooze and then a delicious dinner of tuna lasagne, which we enjoyed with the 'chef', our amazing, doting daughter, Becky, I am feeling fine.

And so, we near the end of today and can see the end of chemo in sight.

Once again thank you all for your love and support. It elevates my spirits and gives me strength.

All my love

Robyn