Friday, March 30, 2007

New Kind of Doctors Visit

We met with the pulmonologist today. He confirmed what has been evident for the last 6 days, Art is doing very well. All the tests they ran have come back normal. They removed a polyp from his throat. It’s not cancerous.

Dr. Stricke was peppy and cheerful. It must feel good to see someone so sick make an amazing recovery in such a short period of time. He’s never seen Art healthy. It has been a long time since we have left a doctor’s office with unabashed joy. It is strange to leave and NOT to have to fill a prescription or make a mental note to watch out for yet one more symptom or side effect.

I dropped Art off at a friend’s house today, not because he couldn’t drive but because it was on the way back from the doctor’s office and it seemed ridiculous to go all the home. I have spent the last 10 minutes walking around the house wondering what to do. The last six days have been filled with less and less apprehension. The “other shoe” that I am prepared to duck, is not ready to release. For the first time in 7 months there isn’t anything that must got done, read, asked, clarified or inspected.

We are not done. He will still need radiation treatments which will again weaken him, but after what we have been through, we are anticipating it will prove to be little more than a subtle annoyance and besides, that’s in the future. Living one day at a time has its benefits. At this moment, I am content, not ecstatic, not elated. Humbled is the word. It’s another gorgeous day here in LA. The kids are in school and my husband Art Nagle is having coffee with a friend. That is all I need to know.

2 comments:

  1. Anonymous12:34 PM

    I graduated with Art from HHS in 83'. I've been following your journey and was hoping at some point I could offer you some assurance. After having been diagnosised with breast cancer last year, I went through 33 radiation treatments and want you both to know, that this is going to be a "walk in the park" after what you have been through!! Hopefully you won't have to travel too far, but other than that, I think you will find it uneventful. If you keep your chins up, I believe that you will get through it just fine!! You both are very strong individuals and I admire the strength that you have shown!! Good luck and I will keep following your blog!!

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  2. How sweet it is!!! Enjoy the moment! Enjoy the opportunity to exhale. We are all relaxing with you. :)
    Cathy

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