First, an update for this week – I felt really good!  This week was just Taxol, so I was hoping it would be easier and it was.  I had acupuncture on Wednesday, two days after treatment, which also helped.  But whatever the reason, I’m thankful to have felt so well.  It allowed me to really enjoy the meals my friends and family brought me!  I’ve been instructed to get extra protein during treatment, so I’m trying to pay more attention to what I’m eating.  (As my mother says, I tend to forget to eat.  I don’t really forget; I just don’t feel like bothering with it, something my foodie friends cannot understand.)  I’ve also been told to boost my Vitamin D – a lot – to 5000 IU per day.  All of these things help to keep my energy up.

I was reminded this week about a wonderfully sweet gesture from my niece the first time I went through chemotherapy 20 years ago.  She was only four years old at the time, and I don’t know what her parents told her, but she somehow understood that I was going through something difficult.  She went to her toy box to pick out something to give to me.  She chose a small stuffed bear in a white dress with gold wings.  When I pressed the tummy, Angel Bear shared a secret message with me:  “I’m your Guardian Angel.  I’m your special friend.”  I was so touched by the message, and so amazed that a four year-old chose such an appropriate and thoughtful gift.  I found Angel Bear a few weeks ago when cleaning out a dresser and smiled as I listened to her sweet (albeit a bit creepy) voice.  My niece is now a young adult preparing for her wedding this fall.  I’m sad that I’ll be wearing a wig for her special occasion, but delighted to be part of her big day, and, more importantly, grateful for our special relationship. Maybe Angel Bear will come along in my purse.