September Update

Hello Everyone,
It has been a while. I have found myself at the computer multiple times over this month but drawn a blank as to what to say or how to say it. Life is bordering on normalcy and that is a good thing.

My Health
My stamina is building and it is almost surprising to me when I am rendered with a sudden light headedness or instant lethargy. I take it in stride though and lie down and rest. Still, I am progressing and very happy with said progress. Only one issue seems to have crept up on me; it is a pins and needles feeling or numbness that I am experiencing quite frequently lately in my arms and legs. I think it may be a neuropathy issue brought on by the chemo which is quite normal apparently but I will speak to my doctor about it.

My Hair
My ongoing nemesis (it’s a girl thing, I guess). Well, my mom was right. My crown no longer looks like chemo-head; more like a really short cut - which in a way isn’t great, because it looks like I planned this look…ummmm - definitely not. True to form though it is growing rapidly so by this time next year I am looking forward to a nice ‘bob’.

Life
September has had some great highs and lows. Hayden has turned five and I am simultaneously so proud and yet wistful of the years that have past. I don’t know if I will ever be able to experience those baby years again. He started Senior Kindergarten this month and it was and is momentous, of course I teared up – I know of few moms who don’t!
My Nan passed away shortly after Hayden’s birthday and it has been a blow to our family. Up until a few weeks ago she was spry and chatty and still the same ol’ Nan to talk to. We will miss her and love her always.

Honoured and Inspired
Two very special people in my life have given me the greatest gift. Both have organized teams and are participating in two separate events to battle against cancer in my honour.
Phil Lamere has organized Team Carey as he has for the past several years and he and his team are running the Toronto Marathon Relay for Princess Margaret and his team is being sponsored by the equally generous and kind-hearted Richard Boire. Thank you, Thank you. The run is on October 18th and pledges are accepted via Phil Lamere for the team – there is not a web link for pledges but you can contact him or me if you would like to donate.
Another event very near and dear to my heart is the Light the Night Walk. It is held on multiple dates and occasions throughout the year and Sheryl Luckie has organized a team for the event on October 3rd; the team is called Carey’s Angels. Light the Night directly benefits The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and Sheryl is walking in Montreal for me and so many others. You can click right here on Light the Night to learn more and/or to offer a pledge on-line to Sheryl please click HERE to go directly to her pledge page. Thank you Sheryl and team, again I am so honoured.
These special people and their dedication have inspired me. I am setting a long-term goal. Next year I plan to run a leg in the Toronto Relay. I will train through the year with Pete, and I will constantly think of Sheryl and Phil as I do so. I have put this out there in to indelible cyber-space so I am truly committed (or committable depending on whom you talk to!).
A very fine fall to you all. Remember to cherish those you have around you - we are all lucky for those in our lives,

Carey