Taking things for granted.
April 23, 2015
Yesterday, I started the cycle 2 of my treatment. You might say I started the second set of the same immune-therapy treatment I started March 30. So far I am doing good other than the mild facial rashes that looks like acne. It is not too pronounced because I have been taking antibiotics to control it but it is there alright.
With this regiment I am unable to run but I am able to go to yoga and do a few exercise. I tire easily and have been coughing. I miss running. It helps me find peace and it gives me a sense of normalcy. When I run, especially on a beautiful day, I hear my rhythmic breathing, I feel the crisp air and the warm sun against my skin, and I start to perspire. Lately, I have been sluggish and unable to run, which makes me bitter at times. That’s when I really have to dig deep to put things in perspective. I may not be able to run but I am still here. Life is such a tease.
Last Monday, April 20, was the 119th running of Boston. Lelisa Desisa from Ethiopia won the race in 2:09:17. He was also the winner in 2013 during the bombing. I watched it online and tracked a friend (TimU) who finished to qualify again for next year. What an achievement. Boston is always a dream for me because of the challenge. Unlike other marathons, you need to pass a qualifying time based on your age to enter, and that’s the challenge. I am too slow for this race but there are other races to join.
The trick is to make the most of the opportunity. I need to tattoo this in my forehead. I need to hear this when I don’t feel like getting out of bed after a miserable night from chemo rebound. Also, I need to take things in perspective. I am still here.
Cheers.
P.S. Former Archbishop of Chicago, Cardinal George, passed last Friday from cancer. My wife and I tried to go to the viewing but missed the time slot. I mourn his passing. He was also treated at University of Chicago, where I am being treated. He paid it forward for me.