The Litany Against Fear

I will not fear. Fear is the mind killer. Fear is the little death that brings total obliteration. (Frank Herbert)

Monday, November 2, 2009

Much Ado and a Hug

I caused quite a stir last Thursday when I went in for treatment. The entire staff had been waiting for news about Anya, and I simply hadn't the time to make the call. They were so excited to hear the news and see the pictures we brought that we put everyone behind schedule. I'm sure the other patients were peeved and confused as to what the fuss was about. Several nurses were around me in the waiting room when I saw Dr. Lee poke his head out. One or two times he stepped forward and then back again, as though undecided about what to do. Finally he flopped his arms and rushed over to look at the pictures and congratulate me. His words were, "Holy crap." Oh how I love his sense of humor.

Because my breast was engorged I opted to have treatment with a peripheral IV in my hand instead of my port. Took longer but was well worth it. I told several of my nurses the story about the neonatal nurse wanting to compare my breasts to see if my engorged breast was normal. We had a good laugh.

As I was leaving the Center, Dr. Lee came out again and gave both me and my husband hugs. I was touched and got a little teary, but before I could say much he rushed away (he was running behind). We turned to the receptionist to confirm my next appointment and she was all teared up too. Then she told us that in the 7 years she had worked for Dr. Lee she had never seen him hug anyone.

I am so glad to have found Dr. Lee and trusted my instincts when I decided to stick with him instead of going to a bigger institution. I am profoundly greatful to him for working so hard to make this cancer fight a long and worthwhile one. And what could be more worthwhile than having a chance to bring a new life into the world?

1 comment:

Sue in Italia/In the Land Of Cancer said...

I am sure Anya's story inspired all in the waiting room and that your Dr. Lee slept very well knowing that he had made Anya a reality against all odds. Did your little one come home yet?