Paw Patrol

I completed chemo infusion session four today. I am, in theory, half-way through my chemo, but only third of the way through my curative treatment.

Next week I meet with my surgical oncologist to discuss Phase Two of the MCU…I mean my pending stomach surgery: AKA how much of a stomach I get to keep?

While only thinking positive things during my fourth infusion, I reflected back on my start almost eight weeks ago.

First, the nurses have been phenomenal! Second, the dogs! Or as I like to call them, the Paw Patrol! Multiple sets of comfort dogs brought in by the American Red Cross. Today, I was visited by Lacy and Elsa. Lacy and I hit it off and he did not want to leave, but finally did after receiving a treat from his handler. Lacy graced me with a decent photo, too! Elsa was a diva and demanded the image rights (not really, she just stayed with others).

The other dog friend I got to hang out with, courtesy of the United States Navy and the Department of Defense’s Office of General Council, was my previous lawyer, Andy – I promised only one lawyer joke, and not a good one to boot.

What a great guy. He had some free time this morning while taking some time off to spend with his family, and carved out over two hours to sit with me and give my wife a bit of a break.

While I have recently moved on from my Office of the Secretary of Defense for Policy (Space Policy), I continue to be supported by the friends I made.

Again, my next phase starts with an office call to my surgical oncologist in about a week.

I just have to endure the beneficial drugs curated poisons for the next little bit as I prepare physically, mentally, and spiritually for what comes next.

In the end I know I will crush that cancer! ☣️