I am deeply grateful for so many things. It has been almost a week since my last radiation treatment, and I am thankful for the side effects because they remind me that my body is fighting the cancer. I am also thankful that I believe the worst of the side effects are behind me. I have developed an appreciation for soup this week since that has been all I can eat. My esophagus has been extra-sensitive from the radiation. Among other things, since radiation, I continue to have trouble getting quality sleep at night, so if you are a praying person, I would appreciate your prayers for that.
I am incredibly thankful for the friends who have surrounded me with love and support. My neighbors, Carlos and Adela, have provided several delicious meals for us. Knowing that I am avoiding sugar and carbs, they have adjusted recipes and tried new ones just for me! I tease Carlos that he is my personal chef. While Glen has been out of town, Adela has come over to put body lotion on my back. Speaking of body lotion, John and Susie, as well as Helen, have kept me well supplied with goat milk lotion. I began treating my skin the week before radiation, continued during radiation, and have kept up this practice this week after radiation. I believe keeping my skin moisturized has prevented burns from the radiation. Dee Dee gifted me a cancer devotional that has been speaking truth to me. I’ve been wrapped in an afghan from Marcella while reading scripture she sent to me. Tim and Dianne sent a lovely bouquet on my first day of radiation. Debby just dropped off soup that Steve made along with some roses. Then, there have been the many, many cards, texts, and emails I have received. Thank you all so very much!
I am thankful for Emily and Holy Yoga. The hour each week that I attend provides me with not only the opportunity to strengthen my body but to quiet my soul as well. I am very thankful for the supplement and dietary advice that John and Heather Gildea have provided. I believe their advice has supported my health with minimal radiation side effects or side effects from the medications.
Finally, I am thankful for my family. Glen is always willing to go to the store any time I need something. Liz visited during my first week of radiation and brought the nicest cancer gift bag, including several t-shirts, matching sweatshirts and hats for Liz, Kristen, and me, warm fuzzy socks, some devotionals, and a crocheted emotional support plant. We were with Ben and Georgia the weekend after my diagnosis, and I look forward to their visit this coming weekend. Kristen has been a constant source of encouragement, hanging out with me while shopping at Trader Joe’s or simply eating soup with me while watching TV.
Now, the waiting begins. I will see my oncologist on March 17th for my monthly visit, but I don’t expect to know much more about my progress until I am scanned again in May so don’t be alarmed if I don’t post anything for awhile. In the meantime, I deeply appreciate your thoughts and prayers.
Kim Holman's Journey 
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