Dad and I at my wedding in 2009
I thought a Sunday was a good time to tell you all about something happening in my life at the moment. Just a little insight – in case I miss a post here or there, or seem a little more distracted than usual – into the reason why.
My Dad is currently in hospital undergoing his first round of Chemo for Non-Hodgkins lymphoma. He’s got an aggressive tumor in his shoulder that has been growing for a long time now, but it’s taken the doctors almost a year to work out what was causing his muscle weakness and pain. Part of me wants to get really angry about how long it took them, but most of me is just relieved that he is finally in treatment, and his pain is much reduced from what he’s been experiencing over the last few months.
His prognosis is good, but all we can do now is wait and hope. I’m sure many of you out there have experience with cancer, and know what I mean. It’s the first time any of my close family has had cancer, so it’s a big learning curve for us.
I debated with myself as to whether to post anything here about it, as I work hard to keep ED a positive and inspirational space, but those of you who know me on twitter/facebook might have already seen me talk about it, and honestly, it’s going to be a big part of my life for the next who knows how long. If you don’t already know, Nick and I live on the same property as my Mum and Dad, so we’re going to be right in the thick of taking care of them both as we all go on this journey. I’m an only child (and definitely a ‘Daddy’s Girl’), too, so we’re a pretty close little family.
It’s hard to focus on work while someone you love is sick and in danger of dying… but life goes on, doesn’t it?
I’m not planning on writing any more about this in the near future, but I wanted to let you all know what’s happening, and open myself up for any advice you might have. Please send my Dad your good thoughts, it would mean the world to me.
Jess xxÂ
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Hey Jess,
This is a day at time kind of thing. Staying positive is key and don’t think too far ahead in terms of ‘what ifs and maybes’ only pay attention to what the doctors are saying, stay in the moment and don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you need to. Also be guided by your dad as although this is going to be a shared journey there will be aspects of it that will be very personal to him and he will have his own perspective ..aah I hope I’ve helped, even just a little. I have a feeling your dad is going to be just fine 🙂
Mel x
Thanks so much, Melanie. And I think you’re right on the money regarding it being a personal journey for him – all we can do is support him and stay positive for him. He’s feeling pretty positive now that treatment is in motion, which is great!
Aloha Jess, I’m so sorry to hear about your dad. Sending a wave of good vibes your fam’s way! If your intrested I have an amazing pomegranite walnut chicken recipe that my neighbor loved while she was doing her chemo. (Food is my medicine lol) Stay positive friend!
Food is a healer, for sure. Thank you, Robin!
You can stay positive and still share about your dad’s progress. I am probably about the same age as he is, or close to it. I was also diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma the end of 2009. The first year it was treated with radiation. It returned the end of 2010, and I had five months of Chemotherapy from Jan to May of 2011. But the end of last year, no more tumors appeared, and still showing no signs of the cancer returning. My hair is growing back and I’m starting to feel much better every day. I’m sure your dad will have the same thing. Keep thinking positive thoughts and posting things of beauty and that’s what life will reward you with. I have had cancer three times and I’m still here. It doesn’t have to be a death sentence anymore. Many blessings to you, your dad and your family. Cindi
I’m so glad to hear you’ve come out the other side healthy and happy, Cindi! Thank you x
Definitely sending positive thoughts and prayers your way. I don’t have much advice except don’t worry too much about work.
That’s something I’m trying, Amie! 🙂
Sorry to hear about your Dad, but thanks for sharing. It’s good to know these things.
I’ll keep him in my prayers and you as well.
xxx
Thanks Janine x
Part of you being inspirational is how open you always are. This might not be a fun and happy and light thing, but it *is* honest, and you are still incredibly inspirational to more people than you realise. Heart you, Jess!
Thank you so much, sweetie!! xx
Thinking of you all Jess, and sending love your way.
T xo
Thanks Tash x
So sorry to hear what you and your family is going through. I went through something similar over the last year after my mom was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer. Unfortunately we lost her last month and it’s been a difficult time since. My advice to you is to talk about it whenever you need. Whether that’s with friends or posting here as a way to get out what you’re feeling. I made the decision to not share what I was going through with my blog followers and I wish I had shared it because it would have been a good way to get some much needed support. Take all the support you can get at this time. Hoping all the best for you and your dad!
Oh Marissa, I’m so sorry to hear about your mum. And thank you for the validation. I’ll be thinking of you xx
My Cousin’s partner has just been diagnosed with stage 2 of this disease. It is scary and the child in me keeps on saying “it’s not fair”.
Something I’ve noticed about having a hand-made business is that the personal stuff, the good and the bad, is important. It’s also good for business. In my experience people are purchasing the items because of the connection they have to the artist, as much as they are falling in love with beautiful and unique pieces. There is of course a balance and that is a personal thing. People buy hand-made because they want to support the human behind the product, not a machine.
My Mum is always with me, even though some weird disease took her body from this world over 8 years ago. Your Dad will always be with you, no matter what happens.
I know what you mean, Diane. My dad is SUCH a great person, I feel the same ‘it’s so unfair’ feeling. And thank you, too, for your thoughts on my sharing 🙂 x
It’s not fair, but it never is. You’re most welcome. 🙂
I’m so sorry to hear this Jess, I can’t imagine how you all must be feeling. Sending all my love and positive thoughts your family’s way <3 I have an amazing book that may be of some help to you, which I would be happy to lend you if you'd like to read it – send me an email or dm on twitter if you want 🙂
Shell xx
Hi Jess,
Please know that my heart goes out to you and your family. I was definitely a “Daddy’s girl” too. I lost my Dad to prostate cancer. There are really no words that help. But I hope that knowing that people all over the world are thinking of you and sending tons of positive energy will make a difference.
As a strange coincidence, I read this book review yesterday. It might help.
http://www.ecokaren.com/2012/04/when-cancer-hits-by-britta-aragon-review-and-giveaway/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Ecokaren+%28ecokaren%29
Warm hugs,
Laurie
I’m so sorry to hear about your dad, Jess. My husband and I have been going through a similar experience with both of his parents over the last 10+ years. My best advice is be flexible. You never know what’s going to happen from day to day and you’ll want to be there for your parents when you can. He may have some difficult choices to make, but ultimately, they are his choices so be positive and supportive no matter what. I’ll be thinking of you and your family and hoping for the best.
Terri