The Year that Really Wasn't.

[jdmidwest]

But it really sucked for me.  Friday marked the first year anniversary of finding the tumor, it was day my grandson was born.  2 weeks from Tuesday will be the first anniversary of being cancer free, the day the tumor was removed.

Its been a long year, the surgery and recovery.  37 days of radiation, and the 4 months recovering from it.  The lymphadema and treatments for it.  2 false alarms, and biopsies to go with them.  A nite at Barnes back in January when the lymphadema developed an infection.  The choking, dry mouth, stiff neck, ringing in my ears, and all of the aches and pains from damage due to radiation and surgeries.

Needless to say, I did not get much done in the last 12 months.  I did some fishing, mostly from a boat.  I did one easy float trip in the kayak last fall.  Very little wade fishing.  I did not do much hunting, just a few days rifle season for deer, no ducks or small game.  The yard, garden, house, and all other outside work did not get done by me.   I returned to work at the end of September and have worked since. 

My wife had a stroke back in January a week after a minor surgery.  She came home with a walker and not able to raise her left arm.  With therapy and prayers, she has regained the use of her arm and leg for the most part and has returned to work also.  She was not allowed her full recovery time due to the 5 weeks she was off with my radiation, they counted those weeks because it was still in a calendar year.

But, I am in better shape than most that have went thru what I had.  And have a body back to the size I was in my late 20's, lean and mean.  Had to buy some new clothes.  My stamina has returned and I am almost back to normal.  Just in time for this little guy's birthday.  And I have 2 more coming in April, both the daughter and step daughter are due around the same time.  Lots to live for and look forward to.  3 grandsons and a granddaughter to train in the ways of the outdoors.

[Deadstream]

Outstanding jdmidwest.  Good luck and God bless.

[BilletHead]

        Sounds like you are going to be back on schedule for this year JD!

 Got the call to serve on Reel Recovery this year. Hope you can make it and we will meet face to face,

  BilletHead

[jdmidwest]

Its on my schedule and looking forward to it.  Deja Vu, back to where I was at this time last year.

[JestersHK]

Great news!  Sounds like you soldiered through a tough year, and I'm glad you came out of it alright.

[jdmidwest]

I have a whole lot of living to make up for that lost year to do this summer.