Back in July I told Mike that I would shave my head in solidarity if the effects of chemo were to make his hair fall out. I even had friends willing to shave for the cause. While Mike appreciated the gesture he made it clear that he preferred I keep my locks. Instead of taking a razor to my scalp I, instead, disavowed the clipping shears. Since July my bangs have been the only part of my hair to see the scissors and only on a rare occasion.
Today, Mike has his chemo pump pulled for the last time. He's done outstandingly well. Only half a day of work has been taken off due to treatment. His blood work has been very good up until this last treatment where his platelets were down. He's gained weight instead of losing, the steriods have given him a moon face, he's been tired, had a rash on his back off and on, a dry mouth, a few leg cramps and the occasionally he's had this "urpy" sensation but nothing terribly severe AND he's kept every hair on his head. Beginning today we should see an increase of his symptoms and then a slow progressive decline. He should begin to feel better.
My hair has grown down past my shoulders in the length of time is has taken to walk this portage. At 10 am I will be sitting in Annie's chair directing a hair cut. I don't think I will return to the short hair I had at the start of all this. I'll have her take "a little off the top" and call it good. It's my intention to have my stubby little braids sticking out from under my head rag while we paddle some big ass lake under endless blue skies up in BFE Canukistan. It's who I am. It's who Mike and Karen are. Freaking bush-hippies with the desire to put miles between us and the nearest civilized hamlet. And we are so ready to shed civilization.
As Mike has already said, "Thanks to all of you who have followed us on this journey." We've been asked if this blog will come to a close. The answer is HELL NO! While this trip is coming to a close there will be other trips to come. More pleasurable journeys and we will try to take you along on those.
So stay tuned. We'll be back. Same Bat time. Same Bat channel.
Peace,
Karen
2 comments:
Lets raise the roof with yells deep from our gut to celebrate the conclusion of a very brave journey for Mike & Karen. A port to be removed and some baseline testing to be done to finalized this portage. Am I happy for you....."Fuckin A" I am. Now it is time for you two to get back to kickin ass in the fast lane. I am proud beyond description of the two of you!!!!
Namaste and much love. See you in June
So glad to hear the blog won't be ending. Love your writing and check this daily! I feel so connected, but also like a stalker. Cheers, Becca
Post a Comment