Challenge

Are you a good friend? Have you ever thought about that question before now? I really failed at being a friend this month, and it got me thinking. I bet I’ve failed at being a friend more than I’ve succeeded. Some people are naturally good friends, and some folks really have to work at it. I’ve come to terms with the fact that I’m the latter.

I have some pretty amazing friends. Like the kind of friends who host a benefit your my family, even though they hate asking for donations. (It’s awkward!) Friends that you can call day or night. Friends that basically move in with your husband and daughter while you stay a month in the hospital. Friends who despite their own busy lives, make time to do things for you. Aren’t those the kind of friends you want? Isn’t that the type of friend you want to be?

I’m issuing a little challenge. Over the next two weeks, be a friend that you would want to have. Do one thing for your friend(s), that is inconvenient. Simple, but I have a feeling it’s not going to be easy. You don’t have to share with anyone, but I’d love to hear that at least one of you decided to give it a try.

I got good news at my Physical Therapy appointment today. My strength has improved and my balance is getting better. Then, they gave me orthotics. Womp womp. I’m still going to counseling. No noticeable changes yet, but I’m determined and I have faith in the process.

Oooh side note! My counselor asked me to do something I love this week. You know, self-care. (Super important!) Would you believe, I have no idea what I like anymore? I used to really enjoy going to Target. For hours! Walking around filling up the cart and then putting like 95% of it back. I tried, it’s not the same. I still enjoy working out, but feel mostly discouraged now. (I physically am not able to do anywhere near what I used to be able to do.) It’s not the same level of enjoyment. Help me! What are some things you really enjoy? What self-care/self-love activities do you enjoy? I’m going to test drive some of your suggestions.

Delayed Intensification. That’s what the next phase of treatment is called. Honestly, it kind of sounds like hell. This next phase starts in one week. I will have an LP, and get several different chemotherapy drugs next Tuesday. Then, it’s back to treatments multiple times per week. This phase also brings back one of the drugs I had during my month long inpatient stay. The drug responsible for my hair loss. This cute little pixie hair I have growing may all fall out in the coming weeks. Sigh. All of my treatments will be count dependent. Meaning treatments may be delayed a time or two, I may be quarantined at some point, and I may have to take more medications to prevent illnesses. Good news is, “maintenance” phase is coming! (Maintenance Phase is chemotherapy once per month.)

Please say a prayer for my friend. The one I failed this month. Please pray this next phase of treatment is uneventful but successful. Please pray that I continue to see physical improvements from therapy. Please pray that I make improvements with my mental health and counseling proves helpful. Please pray for all those involved in planning, hosting, and gifting to the benefit. Please continue to pray for my care team. Actually I’m going to single out one care team member this time. Her name is Michelle. She had surgery earlier this month. Please pray for her recovery. Please pray for your friends!

IMPORTANT: The Russman Family Benefit is September 7th from 7P-11P at AJ Jolly Pavilion! Mark your calendars. I’m looking forward to meeting many of you, and catching up with others.

~Elizabeth~