Kim Holman's Journey

Several of you have asked how my first week of radiation has been. Aside from being tired, it has been a non-event. I have been very fortunate to not have any side effects other than fatigue. On a few occasions, my hips have ached, but this has lasted less than 30 seconds at a time. I had an epiphany after my first radiation treatment. When my brother was going through radiation on his brain over 14 years ago, he kept looking at me and indicating that he wanted to play a video game. He kept saying, “The one where you shoot or zap things.” His daughters tried all of the video games they had trying to find the right one to no avail. He kept looking towards me, but I hadn’t played video games in years. Now, I think I understand – he wanted to play the Atari Space Invaders. Those things would come down the screen, and we could simply zap them. The song that has been playing through my mind this week is “Hit Me With Your Best Shot”. I can’t help but think of it as they zap me each day. I have five more radiation sessions the week of February 23rd, then I should be “just” on medications for a while.

This past week, our daughter Liz and granddaughter Micah came for a visit. We had so much fun with them playing games and working puzzles. I sent Micah home with my unicycle to encourage her to learn to ride. I think she can do it if she sets her mind to it. Liz, Micah, and Kristen went to the radiation appointments with me and were surprised by how quick they were! I miss them already, but look forward to the next time I will see them.

I can’t emphasize enough how pleased I am with the care I am receiving at UVA Health. As an employee of the School of Medicine, I’ve been very proud to work here the past 11 years. Now, as a patient, I can’t say enough about the excellent patient care I have received. In the hospital, Dr. Molly Hughes showed such care and compassion helping me digest the cancer diagnosis. She spent time with Glen when I was getting my MRI helping him cope with the diagnosis. Dr. Gabby Miggins took the time to get to know me during my stay in the hospital. Dr. Megan Bray, my Gyn, has been a great resource for navigating a breast cancer diagnosis (the Dammit Cancer doll has provided much needed relief ) Dr. Trish Millard, has been a calm, yet directive and reassuring oncologist during this process. Her nurse, Joann is outstanding! She not only provides prompt responses to my questions, but she has completed my short term disability paperwork multiple times as we both try to word it correctly. Dr. Einsley-Marie Janowski and her team including Dale, Brian, and Meredith, have been incredibly efficient with my radiation treatments and answering my questions. Although not one of my clinical physicians, my boss, Dr. Meg Keeley, Senior Associate Dean for Education, has been incredibly supportive during this process. Thank you all for being such a great team!

I am so thankful for all of you who are praying for me and our family during this time. Your cards have meant so much to us. Thank you!