Round II Chemo

I started my 2nd round of chemo last Thursday and am heading into a full week of chemo this week. Prior to going into this chemo, I've felt better (less fatigue, etc.) than I've felt since surgery- I've felt a glimmer of hope that I can regain my strength and get back eventually to where I was physically (maybe not emotionally) to some extent in time. It's only been 3.5 months of all this, but I've waited so long for treatment and really need it. Unfortunately I have a big battle and wish more than anything that my family and friends did not also have to go through this- it is very hard on everyone and I have not always made it easy to be cared for.

Again, I have so much to be thankful for- Hilary cleaned out my fridge yesterday and drove me to the hospital last week for a test, Scott brought by groceries today and was with me for my Friday chemo, next week, Rhonda, Shirley, Nada, Scott, etc. will also take me to chemo and Barb may bring my mom over to visit. I hope I can also tolerate this round and come out stronger. I'm frustrated by the baby steps I've had to take (to walk a short distance or to be able to eat solid food), but that is what this is. Thanks again for all your good wishes, thoughts and prayers.

I'm Loving It!

Have you EVER seen Cathy have a Big Mac & fries? Not in the last 20 years she reports, but she's chomped one back two days running now. 800 calories per feast apparently. Pizza Pizza sales are up too! Our girl is fattening up a bit and loving it (for now at least).

Out and about on King Street

CC has been feeling stronger this week than she has in ages. She recently ventured out on her own for a walk around the block and a visit to the video store, and on Saturday she enjoyed an outing to a favourite art gallery and a beautiful living store. It was nice to get out and do some of her old Saturday things. Round two of chemo starts later this week.

Happy New Year, Catherine!

Hilary, Rhonda, Judi, Dan, Louise, Scott, Barb and Connie are seen here toasting Catherine at midnight. CC, our photographer, has been feeling a little better the last couple of days and was able to stay up later than any of her New Year's guests! We all wish you health and happiness for 2010!

Merry Christmas from Catherine

CC and her mom enjoyed a delicious Christmas luncheon today with Dan and Scott, and had some laughs watching the Catherine Tate Show Christmas Special. She is looking forward to seeing her nephews and Nada and Chris when they visit on Sunday.

CC would like to thank everyone for their cards, gifts and warm thoughts and wish everyone a very happy holiday.

Out and About

CC and I had a great little outing yesterday. We went for a drive along the lakeshore, re-visiting CC's bicycle route, and then checked out some of the new architecture sprouting up around the city. CC popped into HMV, but unfortunately came out empty-handed. We had more success at Pusateris, where CC picked up some dinner for her mom and herself. All in all, a great little outing on a beautiful December day!

FINITO

CC finished her first round of chemo yesterday. She has been brave, she has been strong, and we're all very proud of her. CC will see her doctor in early January and then prepare for her second round a few weeks later.

CC is looking forward to seeing her family on Christmas Eve. Here's a photo of La Familia Ciavarella.