Grateful for the familiar

I was drawn back into the infusion world this week. Not my preferred afternoon out, but still a time of lift. (Deets below about this non chemo detour) Returning to the space and memories of four years ago was a bracing step into a familiar portal—jarring, nerve-racking, memory-laden,and yes, even a bit comforting.

The gift of a familiar nurse warmed me more than the heated blanket. Hearing a known voice, remembering a comforting laugh, being reminded of your years of expertise, is treasure. Seeing the same, hard-working, compassionate faces was yet another reminder of the steady and ongoing work of healing all around us. Such a strong heartbeat. To everyone giving what they have, to whatever labor of love life has called you into, I pray that continues to you fill you.

As I looked at those around me in their own chairs, I wondered what their work and passions were. What and whom might they be missing? Under their masks, I still heard kindness, smiles through pain, honesty, and connections to strangers close by. To all who steady on, or who desperately wish they could, I hope there is appreciation in your day. For the calming work of the staff in that place, strength for the journey.

[in mid-March, I began struggling to type or write with my right hand. It is unsettling to have one’s right hand startle you by moving by your shoulder unexpectedly or missing a light switch by an inch. Virtual doctor visits and an MRI led us to a series of four staggered infusion treatments. The goal is to settle the area of my brain that has had past treatments and experiences swelling. Seeing slight signs of improvement and we are hopeful. Reliant on voice-texting and patience around typos.😀]