Tuesday 30th April
A very standard day today. Work is still busy but that makes the time go quicker. No time for any training today as Mandy was teaching at college tonight so I had to cook tea for Ben and I, never a good thing. Then I went out to play skittles in a cup final which we won easily. A very good season is nearly over and we have won a good haul of trophies.
I intend to go for a run first thing tomorrow morning if the weather is OK and I feel like it when I wake up.
That's about it for tonight as it's late. Sorry the posts are getting short but normality is quite boring, but I love it !
Cheers
Tim
Tuesday 30 April 2013
Monday 29 April 2013
Running club
Monday 29th April
The days seem to be rushing past again very quickly, there is just no time to sit down and relax. Mand and I are just not getting to spend any time together. It probably seems worse because one of the very few upsides to the last 4 months is that we have spent time together. OK so some of it was horrible but when I was feeling OK it was just nice to be around at home with her, having lunch together and just being able to sit and talk to her whilst she was working. Now we just seem to pass each other and say hello. She is so busy with work it is ridiculous, and I am trying to do as much running as possible without over training and we are still winning at skittles so there are two games again this week.
So with all this in mind we have booked a night away in Shrewsbury on Sunday. Touch wood they will have electricity!! Two whole days just to relax and wander around Shrewsbury. Heaven.
Tonight I went down to running club for the first time since November. It was great to be back and see people and join in again. I have so many good friends there who have supported me throughout. Running has been such a big part of my life for so long it is great to be doing it again.
Now I'm back at home having had tea but it is nearly 10 o'clock and Mand is still working so I need to stop and get her to stop too.
Cheers
Tim
The days seem to be rushing past again very quickly, there is just no time to sit down and relax. Mand and I are just not getting to spend any time together. It probably seems worse because one of the very few upsides to the last 4 months is that we have spent time together. OK so some of it was horrible but when I was feeling OK it was just nice to be around at home with her, having lunch together and just being able to sit and talk to her whilst she was working. Now we just seem to pass each other and say hello. She is so busy with work it is ridiculous, and I am trying to do as much running as possible without over training and we are still winning at skittles so there are two games again this week.
So with all this in mind we have booked a night away in Shrewsbury on Sunday. Touch wood they will have electricity!! Two whole days just to relax and wander around Shrewsbury. Heaven.
Tonight I went down to running club for the first time since November. It was great to be back and see people and join in again. I have so many good friends there who have supported me throughout. Running has been such a big part of my life for so long it is great to be doing it again.
Now I'm back at home having had tea but it is nearly 10 o'clock and Mand is still working so I need to stop and get her to stop too.
Cheers
Tim
Sunday 28 April 2013
Rest day
Sunday 28th April
Very quiet day today. Had a rotten night's sleep though, I was up reading the paper at 4.30 this morning although I did get back to sleep after and only surfaced at nine o'clock when Mand left for the gym. Apart from a quick trip to Tesco and down to Harvington to pick up Ben the rest of the day has been spent doing very little.
We have started to look for somewhere hot to go on holiday to but could only find places today that cost upwards of about six thousand pounds ( or maybe euros ). Dosen't really matter as it will never happen without the help of the lottery. Having to go in August all the decent places for the right price have already gone.
I'm actually going to go and run at club tomorrow night for the first time since last November which is great. Going to stop afterwards for a drink with a few friends to celebrate.
We have finally opened a bottle of fizz tonight so I'm off to enjoy that.
Cheers
Tim
Very quiet day today. Had a rotten night's sleep though, I was up reading the paper at 4.30 this morning although I did get back to sleep after and only surfaced at nine o'clock when Mand left for the gym. Apart from a quick trip to Tesco and down to Harvington to pick up Ben the rest of the day has been spent doing very little.
We have started to look for somewhere hot to go on holiday to but could only find places today that cost upwards of about six thousand pounds ( or maybe euros ). Dosen't really matter as it will never happen without the help of the lottery. Having to go in August all the decent places for the right price have already gone.
I'm actually going to go and run at club tomorrow night for the first time since last November which is great. Going to stop afterwards for a drink with a few friends to celebrate.
We have finally opened a bottle of fizz tonight so I'm off to enjoy that.
Cheers
Tim
Saturday 27 April 2013
Mileage
Saturday 27th April
Thanks to Mand for writing yesterday's blog, very eloquent as usual.
Iron Man was good. If you liked the first two films you will like this one. If you didn't then don't go. The Regal is definitely the best thing in Evesham, in fact probably the best cinema I have been in.
Mand's comments about me not overdoing it are duly noted. With that in mind I started today with a very nice seven mile run. Oops! Huge boost to my confidence though for Tewkesbury. By far the furthest I have run since November and there was no walking at all, and done in a far quicker time than I thought possible at this point. Legs are a bit stiff tonight despite wearing my skins this afternoon.
I did at least take it easy for the rest of the day. Most of the afternoon was spent listening to the football. Good result for the Forest but need a favour from others next Saturday to get to the play-offs.
We have been out for a Chinese tonight with my parents and sister and her son Jack, so I am sat here somewhat stuffed, but nicely so.
I am finding it really difficult to take it easy at the moment. Some of it is circumstances in that work is really busy and skittles is twice a week whilst we keep winning ( 2 cup finals to play this week ). I need to keep the running going as much as possible to be fit for 3 weeks time. But also just for the fact that I can do these things now and just want to get on. However I will calm it down and look after myself, it only makes sense. I have seen enough of hospitals thank you very much.
Nothing planned for tomorrow so perhaps a totally quiet day ahead.
Cheers
Tim
Thanks to Mand for writing yesterday's blog, very eloquent as usual.
Iron Man was good. If you liked the first two films you will like this one. If you didn't then don't go. The Regal is definitely the best thing in Evesham, in fact probably the best cinema I have been in.
Mand's comments about me not overdoing it are duly noted. With that in mind I started today with a very nice seven mile run. Oops! Huge boost to my confidence though for Tewkesbury. By far the furthest I have run since November and there was no walking at all, and done in a far quicker time than I thought possible at this point. Legs are a bit stiff tonight despite wearing my skins this afternoon.
I did at least take it easy for the rest of the day. Most of the afternoon was spent listening to the football. Good result for the Forest but need a favour from others next Saturday to get to the play-offs.
We have been out for a Chinese tonight with my parents and sister and her son Jack, so I am sat here somewhat stuffed, but nicely so.
I am finding it really difficult to take it easy at the moment. Some of it is circumstances in that work is really busy and skittles is twice a week whilst we keep winning ( 2 cup finals to play this week ). I need to keep the running going as much as possible to be fit for 3 weeks time. But also just for the fact that I can do these things now and just want to get on. However I will calm it down and look after myself, it only makes sense. I have seen enough of hospitals thank you very much.
Nothing planned for tomorrow so perhaps a totally quiet day ahead.
Cheers
Tim
Friday 26 April 2013
On the platform
Friday 26th April
Tim rushed in and rushed out again tonight so I have taken over blog duty again. He has taken Ben to The Regal to see the new Ironman film, not something I wanted to see so they are having a boys night out. He just about managed to eat some tea before he was back out of the door. At least he is just sat watching a screen tonight which is what he would have done at home just in his pj's. He has had a busy week again, tiring for someone at their most able and I do worry that he is going to over do it and totally exhaust himself. He won't be told though. Hopefully over the weekend he can get some rest in.
Tuesday was obviously a great day. He rang me and told me initially that he had contacted Zoe and that it would probably be mid afternoon at least before she got back to him, I was with a customer at the time. What seemed like only five minutes later he rang me back with the news. It was a bit like at the beginning of all this when we sat and listened to the consultant, words were being said but you couldn't take them in. This time at least it was words I wanted to hear! He actually said to me 'don't cry!', believe me I was trying really hard not to. The poor lady I was with didn't seem to notice but I have to say I whipped the tape measure round her very quickly in order that I could send her out of the door and ring Tim back to talk properly.
So we have been allowed to leave the train at last but now we just have to hang around on the platform till the 9th May for our bags. Hopefully we can then just do short hops aboard every now and again and never ever have to go on a long excursion like that again.
We booked a night away today, hopefully it will happen this time. We are going to a lovely B and B we have stayed at quite a few times before near Shrewsbury. We will relax there even if only for a short time as we know the owner now and feel very at home there. There are also lots of good places to eat around and most importantly lots of nice shops to visit in the town! Retail therapy is much needed and earned I think.
I keep torturing myself looking at holiday villas in sunny climes, need to wait though till after the consultant appointment. Was looking at Italian places last night with lovely pools that you could see the sun glinting off ......may have to be content with Cornwall and drizzle though!
Tim is going for a run in the morning but not too early I hope. Myself I have three fittings so might as well just resign myself to another day of work trying desperately to catch up.
Hair update.... it is really soft and downy and I struggle not to stroke it every time I walk past!!
Mandy
Tim rushed in and rushed out again tonight so I have taken over blog duty again. He has taken Ben to The Regal to see the new Ironman film, not something I wanted to see so they are having a boys night out. He just about managed to eat some tea before he was back out of the door. At least he is just sat watching a screen tonight which is what he would have done at home just in his pj's. He has had a busy week again, tiring for someone at their most able and I do worry that he is going to over do it and totally exhaust himself. He won't be told though. Hopefully over the weekend he can get some rest in.
Tuesday was obviously a great day. He rang me and told me initially that he had contacted Zoe and that it would probably be mid afternoon at least before she got back to him, I was with a customer at the time. What seemed like only five minutes later he rang me back with the news. It was a bit like at the beginning of all this when we sat and listened to the consultant, words were being said but you couldn't take them in. This time at least it was words I wanted to hear! He actually said to me 'don't cry!', believe me I was trying really hard not to. The poor lady I was with didn't seem to notice but I have to say I whipped the tape measure round her very quickly in order that I could send her out of the door and ring Tim back to talk properly.
So we have been allowed to leave the train at last but now we just have to hang around on the platform till the 9th May for our bags. Hopefully we can then just do short hops aboard every now and again and never ever have to go on a long excursion like that again.
We booked a night away today, hopefully it will happen this time. We are going to a lovely B and B we have stayed at quite a few times before near Shrewsbury. We will relax there even if only for a short time as we know the owner now and feel very at home there. There are also lots of good places to eat around and most importantly lots of nice shops to visit in the town! Retail therapy is much needed and earned I think.
I keep torturing myself looking at holiday villas in sunny climes, need to wait though till after the consultant appointment. Was looking at Italian places last night with lovely pools that you could see the sun glinting off ......may have to be content with Cornwall and drizzle though!
Tim is going for a run in the morning but not too early I hope. Myself I have three fittings so might as well just resign myself to another day of work trying desperately to catch up.
Hair update.... it is really soft and downy and I struggle not to stroke it every time I walk past!!
Mandy
Thursday 25 April 2013
Normality reigns supreme
Thursday 25th April
Life has fallen back into a normal routine very quickly, even the good news of Tuesday has seemed to fade very quickly. I suppose it is because we had been told that the news should be good so we were expecting it but wouldn't allow ourselves to believe it beforehand. Then when it is good it's like you have known for ages. Before we found out people were asking if I felt alright. My answer was yes but then I felt fine when I found the lump and was diagnosed. Still the only thing that has made me feel ill is the cure. I guess it's the old adage that the worse the medicine tastes the more good it does.
I kept on saying that all I wanted was for normality to return to my life and it sure has. Thursdays have been work followed by skittles for the past 19 years now, so today is a perfectly normal Thursday. And I don't mind a bit.
Last night we went out for a meal to celebrate and when we got back I had a glass of wine for the first time since new year's eve. I don't know what all the fuss is about, it's over rated really.
I've got to take Ben to climbing now.
Cheers
Tim
Life has fallen back into a normal routine very quickly, even the good news of Tuesday has seemed to fade very quickly. I suppose it is because we had been told that the news should be good so we were expecting it but wouldn't allow ourselves to believe it beforehand. Then when it is good it's like you have known for ages. Before we found out people were asking if I felt alright. My answer was yes but then I felt fine when I found the lump and was diagnosed. Still the only thing that has made me feel ill is the cure. I guess it's the old adage that the worse the medicine tastes the more good it does.
I kept on saying that all I wanted was for normality to return to my life and it sure has. Thursdays have been work followed by skittles for the past 19 years now, so today is a perfectly normal Thursday. And I don't mind a bit.
Last night we went out for a meal to celebrate and when we got back I had a glass of wine for the first time since new year's eve. I don't know what all the fuss is about, it's over rated really.
I've got to take Ben to climbing now.
Cheers
Tim
Wednesday 24 April 2013
Wine
Wednesday 24th April
I have just taken my first sip of wine ( any kind of alcohol actually ) since new years eve. We did not get a chance to celebrate last night so the three of us have been out to eat tonight, which was very nice and very relaxed.
Somehow I expected to feel different today but of course I didn't. You go to work, which is very busy at the moment, and just carry on as normal. A huge weight has been lifted however and we can start to plan things for the future. We are still not sure if there is any problem with me flying if we want to go abroad. At the moment I am still having the injections for the blood clot in my leg, which will carry on for a couple of weeks, so I'm sure it is not a good idea yet. But I see no reason why not to go in the school holidays.
The messages of congratulations have been overwhelming. I'm not surprised as the support we have received all along has been fantastic and helped me no end. But thank you to everyone who has been in touch, it means the world.
I did manage a quick run this morning before work. I guess I have no excuses any more, it's just up to me to get on with it now. 25 days to Tewkesbury and counting.
I'm going back to my wine now!
Cheers
Tim
I have just taken my first sip of wine ( any kind of alcohol actually ) since new years eve. We did not get a chance to celebrate last night so the three of us have been out to eat tonight, which was very nice and very relaxed.
Somehow I expected to feel different today but of course I didn't. You go to work, which is very busy at the moment, and just carry on as normal. A huge weight has been lifted however and we can start to plan things for the future. We are still not sure if there is any problem with me flying if we want to go abroad. At the moment I am still having the injections for the blood clot in my leg, which will carry on for a couple of weeks, so I'm sure it is not a good idea yet. But I see no reason why not to go in the school holidays.
The messages of congratulations have been overwhelming. I'm not surprised as the support we have received all along has been fantastic and helped me no end. But thank you to everyone who has been in touch, it means the world.
I did manage a quick run this morning before work. I guess I have no excuses any more, it's just up to me to get on with it now. 25 days to Tewkesbury and counting.
I'm going back to my wine now!
Cheers
Tim
Tuesday 23 April 2013
End of the line
Tuesday 23rd April
I will forever more remember the date of St George's Day. Today I got the results of my scan that I had last Monday and they were as good as they could be. The tumour / lump of cancer that was inside me has been completely destroyed by the chemo. The news has made the 3 months of horrible treatment and the feelings of complete helplessness seem all worthwhile.
It has been a strange day. I'm sure if I had been with Mandy when we heard then there would have been a lot of tears. As it was I was at work and had to hold it all in, which I did in the main but couldn't help some tears as I was on my own in the warehouse office after I had given Mandy the news. Fate has decreed that I will not see her properly until late tonight as she is teaching at college and I am playing skittles. I suppose I should have stayed in but hey, it is a semi final!
The rest of the day has been a bit of a blur. It was a strange mixture of happiness and relief. I think actually the relief was the greater part. I'm actually having difficulty in putting it into words so I think I will try again tomorrow when it has sunk in a little.
For now I would like to say thank you again to all the people who are reading this and have sent me messages of encouragement and support. Please keep reading as I will continue until I have run the half marathon in Tewkesbury.
It looks like the train is pulling into the station and we can get off !!!!
Cheers
Tim
I will forever more remember the date of St George's Day. Today I got the results of my scan that I had last Monday and they were as good as they could be. The tumour / lump of cancer that was inside me has been completely destroyed by the chemo. The news has made the 3 months of horrible treatment and the feelings of complete helplessness seem all worthwhile.
It has been a strange day. I'm sure if I had been with Mandy when we heard then there would have been a lot of tears. As it was I was at work and had to hold it all in, which I did in the main but couldn't help some tears as I was on my own in the warehouse office after I had given Mandy the news. Fate has decreed that I will not see her properly until late tonight as she is teaching at college and I am playing skittles. I suppose I should have stayed in but hey, it is a semi final!
The rest of the day has been a bit of a blur. It was a strange mixture of happiness and relief. I think actually the relief was the greater part. I'm actually having difficulty in putting it into words so I think I will try again tomorrow when it has sunk in a little.
For now I would like to say thank you again to all the people who are reading this and have sent me messages of encouragement and support. Please keep reading as I will continue until I have run the half marathon in Tewkesbury.
It looks like the train is pulling into the station and we can get off !!!!
Cheers
Tim
Monday 22 April 2013
Side effect update
Monday 22nd April
Fairly standard day today. Work was fine, it doesn't seem to be tiring me too much. Don't get me wrong, I am tired each night and just want to go to bed, and I am sleeping like a log every night. But getting up in the mornings is OK and I don't feel the need for an afternoon rest.
Several of the side effects that were caused by the chemo are improving as well. The most obvious being the return of some hair on my head. Even Mand has to admit now that there is a definite covering. It is very thin and soft but it is all over, it may however be quite grey / white!
The lack of feeling in the ends of my fingers also seems to be improving. My thumbs still feel strange but definitely better in the fingers.
I'm not sure about my breathing. It must be better during the day as I have not thought about it, and during exercise it is OK. Just at night I still feel it is not quite right. Maybe it is something to do with lying down.
I went for another run tonight around my 3.25 mile circuit. I managed to run the whole way without walking for the first time on my own by going slightly slower. I'm getting there I suppose but it is less than 4 weeks to the half marathon I am doing. It's going to be a tough race!!
Cup of tea now ready so I'm off. Fingers crossed for tomorrow.
Cheers
Tim
Fairly standard day today. Work was fine, it doesn't seem to be tiring me too much. Don't get me wrong, I am tired each night and just want to go to bed, and I am sleeping like a log every night. But getting up in the mornings is OK and I don't feel the need for an afternoon rest.
Several of the side effects that were caused by the chemo are improving as well. The most obvious being the return of some hair on my head. Even Mand has to admit now that there is a definite covering. It is very thin and soft but it is all over, it may however be quite grey / white!
The lack of feeling in the ends of my fingers also seems to be improving. My thumbs still feel strange but definitely better in the fingers.
I'm not sure about my breathing. It must be better during the day as I have not thought about it, and during exercise it is OK. Just at night I still feel it is not quite right. Maybe it is something to do with lying down.
I went for another run tonight around my 3.25 mile circuit. I managed to run the whole way without walking for the first time on my own by going slightly slower. I'm getting there I suppose but it is less than 4 weeks to the half marathon I am doing. It's going to be a tough race!!
Cup of tea now ready so I'm off. Fingers crossed for tomorrow.
Cheers
Tim
Sunday 21 April 2013
The coming week
Sunday 21st April
A full day but not too tiring in the physical sense. Ben and I were marshalling at the Evesham Half marathon that was organised by Kurt and Nic at Cotswold Running. It was a trail run from Hampton through Charlton, Cropthorne and Elmley Castle, then back to Hampton again where we were stationed, and finishing at the Northwick Hotel in town. It was great to help out as runners are always very appreciative of marshals who give some encouragement and obviously provide water and some sustenance. I usually hate watching races as I just want to be running, but marshalling is different and very rewarding. Having said that 'where are my trail shoes' !!
A huge week coming up with the chance to get my scan results hopefully on Tuesday ( but don't hold your breath as I am not convinced I will get them as promised and will still have to wait longer ). These results will shape our lives in the immediate future so I am very nervous. Concentrating on other things and filling all my time is the way to cope.
Good news and we get on with life. First on the list is to sort out a holiday to replace the one we lost back in December. Don't care where, although we will probably stay in Europe, but it has to be warm/hot. Even with good news we are still not sure about if there are any complications with flying, especially with my deep vein blood clot in my leg.
Bad news I have not contemplated but will be very difficult to cope with. No more to say except that I have had enough.
Early night tonight to start the week rested.
Cheers
Tim
A full day but not too tiring in the physical sense. Ben and I were marshalling at the Evesham Half marathon that was organised by Kurt and Nic at Cotswold Running. It was a trail run from Hampton through Charlton, Cropthorne and Elmley Castle, then back to Hampton again where we were stationed, and finishing at the Northwick Hotel in town. It was great to help out as runners are always very appreciative of marshals who give some encouragement and obviously provide water and some sustenance. I usually hate watching races as I just want to be running, but marshalling is different and very rewarding. Having said that 'where are my trail shoes' !!
A huge week coming up with the chance to get my scan results hopefully on Tuesday ( but don't hold your breath as I am not convinced I will get them as promised and will still have to wait longer ). These results will shape our lives in the immediate future so I am very nervous. Concentrating on other things and filling all my time is the way to cope.
Good news and we get on with life. First on the list is to sort out a holiday to replace the one we lost back in December. Don't care where, although we will probably stay in Europe, but it has to be warm/hot. Even with good news we are still not sure about if there are any complications with flying, especially with my deep vein blood clot in my leg.
Bad news I have not contemplated but will be very difficult to cope with. No more to say except that I have had enough.
Early night tonight to start the week rested.
Cheers
Tim
Saturday 20 April 2013
Working week
Friday 19th and Saturday 20th April
I've got 2 days to catch up on today. I had no time to write yesterday as I didn't get in from work and having my injection until about 20 past 6 and we had to be in Willersey by 7 o'clock for the skittles evening organised for charity by the 10K committee.
Work has been OK this week. I have found it easier to cope with than I thought I would. I'm tired but not to the point where I needed extra sleep. It has been a very busy week in the evenings as well with two nights out playing my regular skittles and then last night as well. I know Mand was worried about me overdoing it. I seem to have come through unscathed though ( although Mand does not agree ).
Today I went for a run with a friend so as to see if I could slow down a bit but go further which worked very well. I managed 5.25 miles without walking at all, which is nearly two miles more than previous when I have had to walk as well. I don't even ache much! I did as I was told this afternoon and had a short sleep which seemed a shame as the weather was so nice today, at last some warm sunshine.
I saw our next door neighbour this morning. We have never been over friendly with them despite living next to each other for nearly seventeen years now, we just say hello and have an occasional chat. Today was the first time I had actually told them about my cancer, although they obviously knew something was wrong from the fact I have been at home all the time. When I told Mand I said that I had said that 'I had got cancer' but she corrected me to 'I had cancer'. I can't bring myself to think like that yet, it's that jumping the gun thing where you jinx it by saying it.
It is going to be a nervous few days ahead to hopefully getting my scan results on Tuesday. I think I need to keep occupied so as I don't think too much about it.
We are all three of us out tonight at a friend's house so that will be nice.
Cheers
Tim
I've got 2 days to catch up on today. I had no time to write yesterday as I didn't get in from work and having my injection until about 20 past 6 and we had to be in Willersey by 7 o'clock for the skittles evening organised for charity by the 10K committee.
Work has been OK this week. I have found it easier to cope with than I thought I would. I'm tired but not to the point where I needed extra sleep. It has been a very busy week in the evenings as well with two nights out playing my regular skittles and then last night as well. I know Mand was worried about me overdoing it. I seem to have come through unscathed though ( although Mand does not agree ).
Today I went for a run with a friend so as to see if I could slow down a bit but go further which worked very well. I managed 5.25 miles without walking at all, which is nearly two miles more than previous when I have had to walk as well. I don't even ache much! I did as I was told this afternoon and had a short sleep which seemed a shame as the weather was so nice today, at last some warm sunshine.
I saw our next door neighbour this morning. We have never been over friendly with them despite living next to each other for nearly seventeen years now, we just say hello and have an occasional chat. Today was the first time I had actually told them about my cancer, although they obviously knew something was wrong from the fact I have been at home all the time. When I told Mand I said that I had said that 'I had got cancer' but she corrected me to 'I had cancer'. I can't bring myself to think like that yet, it's that jumping the gun thing where you jinx it by saying it.
It is going to be a nervous few days ahead to hopefully getting my scan results on Tuesday. I think I need to keep occupied so as I don't think too much about it.
We are all three of us out tonight at a friend's house so that will be nice.
Cheers
Tim
Thursday 18 April 2013
Too rushed to write
Thursday 18th April
Tim has rushed in and out again tonight so hasn't got round to writing his blog. His week has been full on and I hope that he isn't totally exhausted by the weekend but I suspect he will be. At least he can grab a nap in the afternoons both days if he needs to. Going back to work seems to be OK for him. I just can't believe that it is Thursday again already and that this week is nearly over. I expected it to feel strange him not being around much again but to be honest I'm so busy it took me until today to even think about it. I suppose the fact that he has been popping into work regularly over the last couple of weeks means that things like having lunch on my own again has been normal anyway. At least I know that he will be home by 6.15 ish because of having his injection rather than before when it could be anytime. Saying that he was later tonight as the nurse who has been doing most of his jabs wasn't there for some reason and he had to see a doctor again instead. Not too long to go with them now hopefully as they should finish by the start of May.
Going to the hospital again Monday was much better than I expected. I was glad Tim was at work so he was occupied but he was actually less anxious than I was I think. Maybe all the memories of the trips over there, including the last when he threw up in the car were playing on my mind too much! It showed I think how far we have come since then and that he is in a so much better space now than he was then. That last treatment was so awful and I never want to see anyone in that state again. The scan was easy and quick though and next time he can go on his own without any worries.
We are out for the next couple of nights together, which seems a novelty. We are going to friends on Saturday night for a meal which is something we have done little of for the last few months. I intend to invite a few friends over here again which there again is not something we have done since late last year.
Hair update...it is coming back slowly. He has kept saying it was but I must admit I was dubious but you can actually see it in some lights now and it feels much softer. Looking a bit 'blond' though!!
Mandy
Tim has rushed in and out again tonight so hasn't got round to writing his blog. His week has been full on and I hope that he isn't totally exhausted by the weekend but I suspect he will be. At least he can grab a nap in the afternoons both days if he needs to. Going back to work seems to be OK for him. I just can't believe that it is Thursday again already and that this week is nearly over. I expected it to feel strange him not being around much again but to be honest I'm so busy it took me until today to even think about it. I suppose the fact that he has been popping into work regularly over the last couple of weeks means that things like having lunch on my own again has been normal anyway. At least I know that he will be home by 6.15 ish because of having his injection rather than before when it could be anytime. Saying that he was later tonight as the nurse who has been doing most of his jabs wasn't there for some reason and he had to see a doctor again instead. Not too long to go with them now hopefully as they should finish by the start of May.
Going to the hospital again Monday was much better than I expected. I was glad Tim was at work so he was occupied but he was actually less anxious than I was I think. Maybe all the memories of the trips over there, including the last when he threw up in the car were playing on my mind too much! It showed I think how far we have come since then and that he is in a so much better space now than he was then. That last treatment was so awful and I never want to see anyone in that state again. The scan was easy and quick though and next time he can go on his own without any worries.
We are out for the next couple of nights together, which seems a novelty. We are going to friends on Saturday night for a meal which is something we have done little of for the last few months. I intend to invite a few friends over here again which there again is not something we have done since late last year.
Hair update...it is coming back slowly. He has kept saying it was but I must admit I was dubious but you can actually see it in some lights now and it feels much softer. Looking a bit 'blond' though!!
Mandy
Wednesday 17 April 2013
Normal day
Wednesday 17th April
Just a normal day today. Work as usual ( usual already ) followed by a race home for my injection. There were no nurses available today so I had to see a doctor. As it happened it was the doctor I very first saw when I found the lump. He did remember me, I think mostly from the rush we were in to get sorted before our aborted holiday in New Zealand.
After my injection I hurried home to get out for a run. My Garmin is playing up and would not locate a satellite but I figure I did about three and a half miles again. This attempt to run a half marathon in only four and a half weeks is really looking like a tough challenge.
I finally managed to talk to my Macmillan nurse. She did not know about my results appointment being cancelled and moved back a month. She has agreed to get the results and give me a ring next Tuesday so that's actually earlier than the original meeting. I was a bit nervous about asking her to do this in case it is not good news and would be better coming from the doctor, but at the end of the day the result is the result and it doesn't matter who tells me. I will still have to see the doctor later.
We are both tired tonight. Me as I always am, and Mandy because she is working so hard at the moment and then also getting up really early to do other things. Yesterday to be at the gym by 7am and this morning to finish a birthday cake she has been decorating for an 18th birthday.
So off for an early night.
Cheers
Tim
Just a normal day today. Work as usual ( usual already ) followed by a race home for my injection. There were no nurses available today so I had to see a doctor. As it happened it was the doctor I very first saw when I found the lump. He did remember me, I think mostly from the rush we were in to get sorted before our aborted holiday in New Zealand.
After my injection I hurried home to get out for a run. My Garmin is playing up and would not locate a satellite but I figure I did about three and a half miles again. This attempt to run a half marathon in only four and a half weeks is really looking like a tough challenge.
I finally managed to talk to my Macmillan nurse. She did not know about my results appointment being cancelled and moved back a month. She has agreed to get the results and give me a ring next Tuesday so that's actually earlier than the original meeting. I was a bit nervous about asking her to do this in case it is not good news and would be better coming from the doctor, but at the end of the day the result is the result and it doesn't matter who tells me. I will still have to see the doctor later.
We are both tired tonight. Me as I always am, and Mandy because she is working so hard at the moment and then also getting up really early to do other things. Yesterday to be at the gym by 7am and this morning to finish a birthday cake she has been decorating for an 18th birthday.
So off for an early night.
Cheers
Tim
Tuesday 16 April 2013
Thoughts of elsewhere
Tuesday 16th April
Like quite a few of my running friends reading this my thoughts have been with those running and watching the Boston marathon yesterday that was attacked by some nameless idiot or idiots. Senseless and pointless. They surely cannot gain anything for their cause by murdering innocent bystanders. On a personal note I'm very glad that Virginia, who is a member of Evesham running club and was taking part yesterday, was not caught up in the bombing and is OK. She was not far from the end, so a shame that she could not complete but in the great scheme of things it does not matter. A point that I now know only too well, and we could all do to remember when we are stressed.
My day, as many will be for a while, only consisted of work followed by injection (boring). I'm not too tired yet but do have to play skittles tonight so no early to bed.
Cheers
Tim
Like quite a few of my running friends reading this my thoughts have been with those running and watching the Boston marathon yesterday that was attacked by some nameless idiot or idiots. Senseless and pointless. They surely cannot gain anything for their cause by murdering innocent bystanders. On a personal note I'm very glad that Virginia, who is a member of Evesham running club and was taking part yesterday, was not caught up in the bombing and is OK. She was not far from the end, so a shame that she could not complete but in the great scheme of things it does not matter. A point that I now know only too well, and we could all do to remember when we are stressed.
My day, as many will be for a while, only consisted of work followed by injection (boring). I'm not too tired yet but do have to play skittles tonight so no early to bed.
Cheers
Tim
Monday 15 April 2013
CT Scan
Monday 15th April
I had my CT scan today at the hospital in Coventry. Everything went fine, in fact it was much quicker than expected. Actually the hardest thing was not being able to eat for four hours before the scan.
I was quite relaxed about today, which is a huge surprise after my histrionics for our other visits. Only having to have a cannula put in worried me at all. They use it to put in a contrast agent, which makes you feel hot and as if you need the loo, just wonderful. Still the cannula went in easy and came out even easier. The scan only takes about 5 minutes just passing back and forth through what is best described as a doughnut. I'm just glad it is done. Now we just have to wait for the result appointment which has been changed again to the slightly better date of May 9th. However that is still 3 and a half weeks away instead of 10 days and will seem like a lifetime.
The only pain was the fact that in spite of being in a hospital they would not provide a nurse to give me my injection. We had to rush back to Evesham where despite not having an appointment they did it no problem.
My first day back at work went OK, like I had never been away! Early night tonight though I think whilst I have the chance.
Cheers
Tim
I had my CT scan today at the hospital in Coventry. Everything went fine, in fact it was much quicker than expected. Actually the hardest thing was not being able to eat for four hours before the scan.
I was quite relaxed about today, which is a huge surprise after my histrionics for our other visits. Only having to have a cannula put in worried me at all. They use it to put in a contrast agent, which makes you feel hot and as if you need the loo, just wonderful. Still the cannula went in easy and came out even easier. The scan only takes about 5 minutes just passing back and forth through what is best described as a doughnut. I'm just glad it is done. Now we just have to wait for the result appointment which has been changed again to the slightly better date of May 9th. However that is still 3 and a half weeks away instead of 10 days and will seem like a lifetime.
The only pain was the fact that in spite of being in a hospital they would not provide a nurse to give me my injection. We had to rush back to Evesham where despite not having an appointment they did it no problem.
My first day back at work went OK, like I had never been away! Early night tonight though I think whilst I have the chance.
Cheers
Tim
Sunday 14 April 2013
Tired again
Sunday 14th April
It has been a very quiet day today really so why do I feel so exhausted? OK so this morning we went to the gym but I didn't work too hard. A 10 minute gentle warm up on the bike followed by five and a half km on the treadmill. I am still doing a mixture of running and walking, just trying to make the walking less each time. Anyway I think an early night tonight to be ready for a very busy week ahead.
Maybe it is just reaction to the scan tomorrow. Not too nervous yet but I just want it over and done with, another step done. Probably a good job I am at work so that I won't think about it all day.
Nothing else to report today, even managed a half hour nap this afternoon.
It's just occurred to me that we did have a broken night's sleep on Friday that we still need to catch up on. All three damaged cars are still sat outside. It looks like a crime scene!
Fingers crossed for tomorrow.
Cheers
Tim
It has been a very quiet day today really so why do I feel so exhausted? OK so this morning we went to the gym but I didn't work too hard. A 10 minute gentle warm up on the bike followed by five and a half km on the treadmill. I am still doing a mixture of running and walking, just trying to make the walking less each time. Anyway I think an early night tonight to be ready for a very busy week ahead.
Maybe it is just reaction to the scan tomorrow. Not too nervous yet but I just want it over and done with, another step done. Probably a good job I am at work so that I won't think about it all day.
Nothing else to report today, even managed a half hour nap this afternoon.
It's just occurred to me that we did have a broken night's sleep on Friday that we still need to catch up on. All three damaged cars are still sat outside. It looks like a crime scene!
Fingers crossed for tomorrow.
Cheers
Tim
Saturday 13 April 2013
Cars and trains
Saturday 13th April
Just at a time when I still need all the sleep I can get ready for the return to work, we get a very disturbed night. Just after 4am a couple of 20ish year olds who had been drinking drove their car into the back of the car parked opposite our house. I went out along with Simon our next door neighbour to make sure they did not scarper before the police arrived. They were both cuffed and spent the night in the cells. From what I can see they have probably written off 2 parked cars, maybe their own as well, and put a dent in Simon's which was parked in front of ours. Somehow both of ours were left untouched though, maybe at long last our luck has started to change for the better!
So at about 4.45, after a chat with the police outside, Mandy and I were sat in bed having a cup of tea. It then took us ages to get back to sleep.
After that the day has been very uneventful. Tesco, lunch, into town to get my name printed onto my Macmillan running t-shirt, deliver present to friend for 50th birthday and collect some sponsorship money for my half marathon.
So far not getting wound up about the scan on Monday. There is no reason to as it is just the scan with no results but that probably won't stop me on the day.
We had used the analogy before about being on a train and not being able to get off even if you wanted to. Well it has been sat in a station for a while but will be pulling out again, with us on board, on Monday. Already the rail company has changed the timetable of course, destination was supposed to be reached April 25th, but due to leaves on the line or some such shit it now won't arrive until May 23rd. We will see if we can find a bullet train on Monday though that we can swap to!
Cheers
Tim
Just at a time when I still need all the sleep I can get ready for the return to work, we get a very disturbed night. Just after 4am a couple of 20ish year olds who had been drinking drove their car into the back of the car parked opposite our house. I went out along with Simon our next door neighbour to make sure they did not scarper before the police arrived. They were both cuffed and spent the night in the cells. From what I can see they have probably written off 2 parked cars, maybe their own as well, and put a dent in Simon's which was parked in front of ours. Somehow both of ours were left untouched though, maybe at long last our luck has started to change for the better!
So at about 4.45, after a chat with the police outside, Mandy and I were sat in bed having a cup of tea. It then took us ages to get back to sleep.
After that the day has been very uneventful. Tesco, lunch, into town to get my name printed onto my Macmillan running t-shirt, deliver present to friend for 50th birthday and collect some sponsorship money for my half marathon.
So far not getting wound up about the scan on Monday. There is no reason to as it is just the scan with no results but that probably won't stop me on the day.
We had used the analogy before about being on a train and not being able to get off even if you wanted to. Well it has been sat in a station for a while but will be pulling out again, with us on board, on Monday. Already the rail company has changed the timetable of course, destination was supposed to be reached April 25th, but due to leaves on the line or some such shit it now won't arrive until May 23rd. We will see if we can find a bullet train on Monday though that we can swap to!
Cheers
Tim
Friday 12 April 2013
Going the extra half mile
Friday 12th April
My last day of being signed off work. Just over 4 months after this all started I will finally be back at work full time on Monday. I am definitely ready to get back to the grindstone. Work have been fabulous with me, very patient and have supported me throughout. My first day back however will be cut short by having to go to the hospital for my scan. The nerves are going to start to jangle from then on with the wait for the results. My appointment was supposed to be 10 days after the scan, which was too long to wait in my mind anyway, but I received a letter today telling me that my appointment has been put back BY FOUR WEEKS!! If they think I am going to wait a total of nearly 6 weeks to get the result they have another thing coming. I will camp on the front lawn of my doctor until he tells me what is going on. Watch this space.
We had a day out shopping today including stopping in the Cotswolds on the way back in a tiny village called Kelmscott at a pub called The Plough. Fantastic burger followed by wonderful treacle tart. All calorie free I can assure you.
After my injection I managed to get out for a run, no abandoning it like yesterday. Three and a half miles, so that's a half mile further than I have managed before. Still managing to average 9 minutes per mile even including the walking. Great to see a friend (Steve) also out running who broke his much faster running speed to jog with me for a while. It is just so much easier running with someone to talk to and take your mind off the pain.
Cheers
Tim
My last day of being signed off work. Just over 4 months after this all started I will finally be back at work full time on Monday. I am definitely ready to get back to the grindstone. Work have been fabulous with me, very patient and have supported me throughout. My first day back however will be cut short by having to go to the hospital for my scan. The nerves are going to start to jangle from then on with the wait for the results. My appointment was supposed to be 10 days after the scan, which was too long to wait in my mind anyway, but I received a letter today telling me that my appointment has been put back BY FOUR WEEKS!! If they think I am going to wait a total of nearly 6 weeks to get the result they have another thing coming. I will camp on the front lawn of my doctor until he tells me what is going on. Watch this space.
We had a day out shopping today including stopping in the Cotswolds on the way back in a tiny village called Kelmscott at a pub called The Plough. Fantastic burger followed by wonderful treacle tart. All calorie free I can assure you.
After my injection I managed to get out for a run, no abandoning it like yesterday. Three and a half miles, so that's a half mile further than I have managed before. Still managing to average 9 minutes per mile even including the walking. Great to see a friend (Steve) also out running who broke his much faster running speed to jog with me for a while. It is just so much easier running with someone to talk to and take your mind off the pain.
Cheers
Tim
Thursday 11 April 2013
Oblivion
Thursday 11th April
From today's title you may think that I have had my first alcoholic drink but actually it was only because Ben and I went to see the film Oblivion in Cheltenham this morning. Strange feeling coming out of the cinema and it only being lunch time. Still we went into the Chinese buffet place next to the cinema for lunch so that was good as well.
Could have done with a run as planned around 5.15 but it was raining so I didn't bother. God damn I have been turned into a fair weather runner! ( Not for long I can assure you ). Shame actually as I had persuaded Ben to come with me. It has been nice going out just Ben and I, we had to make the most of the last couple of days before I am back at work full time and Ben's back at school.
I had a nice reply on facebook when I posted about my lack of alcohol. A friend commented that I had been 'brainwashed during treatment............ damn the NHS'.
Hair update. The beard is starting to grow steadily, I have to shave about every 3 days. New chest hair is starting to appear. And even a few longer hairs have started to grow on top. By long of course I mean about 3 or 4 mm as opposed to most of it being 1 or 2 mm!! For elsewhere mind your own business.
It has stopped raining now but tea is soon so I won't bother running tonight. Lazy git.
Cheers
Tim
From today's title you may think that I have had my first alcoholic drink but actually it was only because Ben and I went to see the film Oblivion in Cheltenham this morning. Strange feeling coming out of the cinema and it only being lunch time. Still we went into the Chinese buffet place next to the cinema for lunch so that was good as well.
Could have done with a run as planned around 5.15 but it was raining so I didn't bother. God damn I have been turned into a fair weather runner! ( Not for long I can assure you ). Shame actually as I had persuaded Ben to come with me. It has been nice going out just Ben and I, we had to make the most of the last couple of days before I am back at work full time and Ben's back at school.
I had a nice reply on facebook when I posted about my lack of alcohol. A friend commented that I had been 'brainwashed during treatment............ damn the NHS'.
Hair update. The beard is starting to grow steadily, I have to shave about every 3 days. New chest hair is starting to appear. And even a few longer hairs have started to grow on top. By long of course I mean about 3 or 4 mm as opposed to most of it being 1 or 2 mm!! For elsewhere mind your own business.
It has stopped raining now but tea is soon so I won't bother running tonight. Lazy git.
Cheers
Tim
Wednesday 10 April 2013
Time gentlemen please
Wednesday 10th April
I wasn't going to bother writing the blog tonight. Got up, went to work, came home from work, had my injection, ate tea. Not exactly the most exciting read ever.
However there is an anniversary today that I thought I would like to mention. I have now been alcohol free for 100 days. The last drink I had was new year's eve. I have not touched a drop in 2013. To be honest I have not missed it at all but I daresay I will partake of a drop before much longer. It has not been a conscious decision not to drink rather that I certainly did not want anything whilst I was having treatment and have just not been bothered since.
I fear when I do have a drink it will be a very drunk Timmy very quickly!
Cheers
Tim
I wasn't going to bother writing the blog tonight. Got up, went to work, came home from work, had my injection, ate tea. Not exactly the most exciting read ever.
However there is an anniversary today that I thought I would like to mention. I have now been alcohol free for 100 days. The last drink I had was new year's eve. I have not touched a drop in 2013. To be honest I have not missed it at all but I daresay I will partake of a drop before much longer. It has not been a conscious decision not to drink rather that I certainly did not want anything whilst I was having treatment and have just not been bothered since.
I fear when I do have a drink it will be a very drunk Timmy very quickly!
Cheers
Tim
Tuesday 9 April 2013
Work
Tuesday 9th April
About as normal a day as I could possibly have had today. A very near full day at work, except for getting there about half an hour later than I usually would. Straight to the doctor's after to have my injection. Then home for tea and help Ben to mend a puncture on his bike. Tonight I have a skittles match as well so I hope I won't be too tired afterwards as I have a full day at work tomorrow. Skittles is supposed to be twice a week now that we are into cup games but it depends on how I feel as to whether I can cope. I may just need early nights when I am back to work full time next week.
It seemed so far away to be going back full time but now it is only a few days to go. No complaints though, I thought at times we would never get here.
Legs and lungs feel OK today after the last 2 days of running so that is all to the good.
Cheers
Tim
About as normal a day as I could possibly have had today. A very near full day at work, except for getting there about half an hour later than I usually would. Straight to the doctor's after to have my injection. Then home for tea and help Ben to mend a puncture on his bike. Tonight I have a skittles match as well so I hope I won't be too tired afterwards as I have a full day at work tomorrow. Skittles is supposed to be twice a week now that we are into cup games but it depends on how I feel as to whether I can cope. I may just need early nights when I am back to work full time next week.
It seemed so far away to be going back full time but now it is only a few days to go. No complaints though, I thought at times we would never get here.
Legs and lungs feel OK today after the last 2 days of running so that is all to the good.
Cheers
Tim
Monday 8 April 2013
100 up
Monday 8th April
This is the 100th post in my blog. It's not quite 100 days because of a combination of either 2 posts in one day and missing a day completely.
According to the stats ( and I'm not sure at how they arrive at these figures ) the blog has had over five and a half thousand page views. Most of these have been in the UK, although I also have some expected ones New Zealand ( uncle and aunt ) and Egypt ( friends ). But I have also had some from the USA, Germany, Ukraine, Poland, Canada, Italy and Russia. China, Japan and Taiwan have even had one or two views. I have no idea how they found it or what they thought but if they are reading it now I hope they enjoy it and perhaps find it an insight into the way I think and do things.
Today was supposed to be a relaxing day before two full days at work but hasn't ended up that way. Ben and I cleared out the garden shed and had a trip to the tip with the junk that had been accumulated in there. We then took Mandy's Mum out to buy a new TV and then set it up for her. Then after my visit to the nurse for my injection I went for another run.
I am slowly starting to see some benefit from what I have done so far. I managed a total of 3 miles and didn't have to walk until I had reached 2 miles both of which are much better than before. My lungs did not burn as much as previous times either which is very pleasing. However having run 2 days in a row my muscles are aching tonight, strangely my sides and stomach ones are the worst. I need to work on some core strength I think.
Cheers until tomorrow.
Tim
This is the 100th post in my blog. It's not quite 100 days because of a combination of either 2 posts in one day and missing a day completely.
According to the stats ( and I'm not sure at how they arrive at these figures ) the blog has had over five and a half thousand page views. Most of these have been in the UK, although I also have some expected ones New Zealand ( uncle and aunt ) and Egypt ( friends ). But I have also had some from the USA, Germany, Ukraine, Poland, Canada, Italy and Russia. China, Japan and Taiwan have even had one or two views. I have no idea how they found it or what they thought but if they are reading it now I hope they enjoy it and perhaps find it an insight into the way I think and do things.
Today was supposed to be a relaxing day before two full days at work but hasn't ended up that way. Ben and I cleared out the garden shed and had a trip to the tip with the junk that had been accumulated in there. We then took Mandy's Mum out to buy a new TV and then set it up for her. Then after my visit to the nurse for my injection I went for another run.
I am slowly starting to see some benefit from what I have done so far. I managed a total of 3 miles and didn't have to walk until I had reached 2 miles both of which are much better than before. My lungs did not burn as much as previous times either which is very pleasing. However having run 2 days in a row my muscles are aching tonight, strangely my sides and stomach ones are the worst. I need to work on some core strength I think.
Cheers until tomorrow.
Tim
Sunday 7 April 2013
Treadmill
Sunday 7th April
Thank you to Mand for doing yesterday's post, I was quite tired after the drive to Nottingham and back. It would have been more enjoyable if we had won but a draw was better than a loss.
I went to the gym with Mandy this morning. A 15 minute gentle warm up on the bike followed by 5K on the treadmill in about 32 minutes. That's the farthest I have been so far, even if it was assisted by the machine. Again the legs were not too bad but the lungs were struggling. I know I am always worse in the gym anyway, it is too warm and I prefer the cooler air outside.
It makes me realise how hard it is to start running. I am feeling at times that it is too hard and I want to pack up but at least I have the memory of what it is like when you reach a decent standard and it becomes so much easier.
Afterwards Ben and I went to Peopleton to watch the Scenic Six race and put 10K entry forms on all the cars. Watching races also makes me want to keep going. I really wanted to join in today although it would have killed me.
That's about it for today. A quiet afternoon and tea at Mandy's mum's so that was excellent.
Cheers
Tim
Thank you to Mand for doing yesterday's post, I was quite tired after the drive to Nottingham and back. It would have been more enjoyable if we had won but a draw was better than a loss.
I went to the gym with Mandy this morning. A 15 minute gentle warm up on the bike followed by 5K on the treadmill in about 32 minutes. That's the farthest I have been so far, even if it was assisted by the machine. Again the legs were not too bad but the lungs were struggling. I know I am always worse in the gym anyway, it is too warm and I prefer the cooler air outside.
It makes me realise how hard it is to start running. I am feeling at times that it is too hard and I want to pack up but at least I have the memory of what it is like when you reach a decent standard and it becomes so much easier.
Afterwards Ben and I went to Peopleton to watch the Scenic Six race and put 10K entry forms on all the cars. Watching races also makes me want to keep going. I really wanted to join in today although it would have killed me.
That's about it for today. A quiet afternoon and tea at Mandy's mum's so that was excellent.
Cheers
Tim
Saturday 6 April 2013
Mandy's view
Saturday 6th April
I wanted to write today rather than Tim, just to give my slant on the past few weeks. As he has said everything has been quite positive for him. He does get tired but I'm glad he is being sensible most of the time and resting when he needs to. It is great to see him improving by the day and becoming more like his old self. We are both aware of the uncertainty still hanging over everything and I particularly find it frustrating not being able to plan things too far ahead. We need a holiday to look forward to and we can do nothing about that until after the 25th of this month at the earliest. We also need to find out about things like flying with his blood clot, they may say it won't be a problem by the summer but we need to know.
I know he mentioned the emotional box being opened again on Tuesday but he didn't elaborate. It was my fault getting upset about the night away. It wasn't really about that it was just triggered by the whole frustration of our unseemingly never ending run of bad luck. The tears unfortunately once unleashed wouldn't stop and I ended up spoiling the day we did have together. Tim got upset too which I didn't mean to happen but I guess the whole pressure of the scan and subsequent appointment is bound to make us both emotionally unstable at times!
The boys have just got back from the football together. It is great that they are able to start doing outings like that again although with the driving to Nottingham and back I suspect Tim will be shattered tomorrow. He has a couple of days to recover before he is back at work on Tuesday though so its not an issue. He is coming to the gym with me in the morning so I will have to keep a beady on him and make sure he is sensible in there especially once he reaches the running machine!
These six weeks are flying past and part of me is eager to get the next bit out of the way and part of me wants to stay in ignorance. Limbo is not a good place to be really though and we just have to take a deep breath and face what is to come.
Mandy
I wanted to write today rather than Tim, just to give my slant on the past few weeks. As he has said everything has been quite positive for him. He does get tired but I'm glad he is being sensible most of the time and resting when he needs to. It is great to see him improving by the day and becoming more like his old self. We are both aware of the uncertainty still hanging over everything and I particularly find it frustrating not being able to plan things too far ahead. We need a holiday to look forward to and we can do nothing about that until after the 25th of this month at the earliest. We also need to find out about things like flying with his blood clot, they may say it won't be a problem by the summer but we need to know.
I know he mentioned the emotional box being opened again on Tuesday but he didn't elaborate. It was my fault getting upset about the night away. It wasn't really about that it was just triggered by the whole frustration of our unseemingly never ending run of bad luck. The tears unfortunately once unleashed wouldn't stop and I ended up spoiling the day we did have together. Tim got upset too which I didn't mean to happen but I guess the whole pressure of the scan and subsequent appointment is bound to make us both emotionally unstable at times!
The boys have just got back from the football together. It is great that they are able to start doing outings like that again although with the driving to Nottingham and back I suspect Tim will be shattered tomorrow. He has a couple of days to recover before he is back at work on Tuesday though so its not an issue. He is coming to the gym with me in the morning so I will have to keep a beady on him and make sure he is sensible in there especially once he reaches the running machine!
These six weeks are flying past and part of me is eager to get the next bit out of the way and part of me wants to stay in ignorance. Limbo is not a good place to be really though and we just have to take a deep breath and face what is to come.
Mandy
Friday 5 April 2013
Fingers
Friday 5th April
Unusually a day that actually stayed on plan. A morning at work followed by an afternoon sleep. Hopefully that will make me feel a bit more lively.
I don't know if I have mentioned it before but one of the possible side effects of the chemo was nerve damage on the ends of my fingers. I know Mand was particularly worried that this may happen. During the chemo nothing happened but since I have finished they have definitely been strange. It's like a tingle constantly. I wouldn't say I had loss of feeling because they actually hurt when I do such things as open a ring pull on a can or tin. It's not a huge pain but it is there.
The training for Tewkesbury is not getting going at all. It seems that everything is getting in the way, be it lack of time or tiredness. I have to prioritise work when I have some energy, running will have to wait. I still intend to take part in the race no matter what but there will have to be more walking than I would like.
Cheers
Tim
Unusually a day that actually stayed on plan. A morning at work followed by an afternoon sleep. Hopefully that will make me feel a bit more lively.
I don't know if I have mentioned it before but one of the possible side effects of the chemo was nerve damage on the ends of my fingers. I know Mand was particularly worried that this may happen. During the chemo nothing happened but since I have finished they have definitely been strange. It's like a tingle constantly. I wouldn't say I had loss of feeling because they actually hurt when I do such things as open a ring pull on a can or tin. It's not a huge pain but it is there.
The training for Tewkesbury is not getting going at all. It seems that everything is getting in the way, be it lack of time or tiredness. I have to prioritise work when I have some energy, running will have to wait. I still intend to take part in the race no matter what but there will have to be more walking than I would like.
Cheers
Tim
Thursday 4 April 2013
Tired
Thursday 4th April
Yesterday's almost full day at work has taken it's toll a bit today. I am very tired tonight and probably need an early night. Unfortunately I did not get a chance for much of a rest today due to planned events. I had promised Ben that I would take him and a couple of mates over to Stanton for a walk on the Cotswold's as a practice for their Duke of Edinburgh as their official practice was cancelled. Quite a nice walk, around 6.5 miles but bloody cold when we got up on top of the hills. Then this afternoon we had a meeting with a friend to show Ben how to use the Evesham Running Club website properly so that we can update the 10K page ourselves.
All of which is great but means no rest for me. Mand is also now very very busy so I need to help out around home including cooking tea which is not my forte. Spagbol tonight which I can do well ( can't everyone ).
So off to work tomorrow again but I think just a morning followed by some rest in the afternoon. The tiredness when it comes is still debilitating, you just have to give in and rest.
Hopefully a good sleep tonight. Perhaps without knocking a glass of water over during the night with a flailing arm like I did last night. Very unhappy wife as she had only just got to sleep and couldn't settle again afterwards.
Cheers
Tim
Yesterday's almost full day at work has taken it's toll a bit today. I am very tired tonight and probably need an early night. Unfortunately I did not get a chance for much of a rest today due to planned events. I had promised Ben that I would take him and a couple of mates over to Stanton for a walk on the Cotswold's as a practice for their Duke of Edinburgh as their official practice was cancelled. Quite a nice walk, around 6.5 miles but bloody cold when we got up on top of the hills. Then this afternoon we had a meeting with a friend to show Ben how to use the Evesham Running Club website properly so that we can update the 10K page ourselves.
All of which is great but means no rest for me. Mand is also now very very busy so I need to help out around home including cooking tea which is not my forte. Spagbol tonight which I can do well ( can't everyone ).
So off to work tomorrow again but I think just a morning followed by some rest in the afternoon. The tiredness when it comes is still debilitating, you just have to give in and rest.
Hopefully a good sleep tonight. Perhaps without knocking a glass of water over during the night with a flailing arm like I did last night. Very unhappy wife as she had only just got to sleep and couldn't settle again afterwards.
Cheers
Tim
Wednesday 3 April 2013
Bigger worries
Wednesday 3rd April
That's the longest day I have had at work so far and I feel OK. A bit tired but that's still to be expected. It does mean however that there is not a huge amount to write about. Having been there all day I obviously haven't done any training either so just a perfectly normal day. For me I don't mind at all.
I only now have 12 days to go before I am back at work full time. I can't believe that it is nearly four months since the last time I was. At times it goes so slowly but overall it has flown by. My scan is on the same day I go back to work, then 10 days more to the results. I don't want to wish time away but the 25th can't come soon enough, assuming the right result!!
I know it has been said before but you really do look at things differently. Take the B & B that we should have been at. At first I was annoyed but very quickly realise that I don't care, it is only a night away and no big deal. I have much bigger things to worry about.
Cheers for now.
Tim
That's the longest day I have had at work so far and I feel OK. A bit tired but that's still to be expected. It does mean however that there is not a huge amount to write about. Having been there all day I obviously haven't done any training either so just a perfectly normal day. For me I don't mind at all.
I only now have 12 days to go before I am back at work full time. I can't believe that it is nearly four months since the last time I was. At times it goes so slowly but overall it has flown by. My scan is on the same day I go back to work, then 10 days more to the results. I don't want to wish time away but the 25th can't come soon enough, assuming the right result!!
I know it has been said before but you really do look at things differently. Take the B & B that we should have been at. At first I was annoyed but very quickly realise that I don't care, it is only a night away and no big deal. I have much bigger things to worry about.
Cheers for now.
Tim
Tuesday 2 April 2013
Down again
Tuesday 2nd April
Crap day today. It was supposed to be a nice day in Cirencester having stayed the night in a nice B & B. Of course this did not happen due to their power failure so we got up at a bit of a loss as to what to do instead. However the emotion box got opened again, fuelled by the feeling that we cannot even have a night away without life giving us a good kicking.
So in the end we did very little. Needed a big Tesco shop, great thing to do on a day off! Quick trip to Stratford but we had to get back for my injection so it was very quick.
I did manage a quick run after but as my Garmin decided to switch off, as it seems to be doing a little too often, I don't know how far it actually was. I am trying some really short ones having accepted that 3 miles is a long run at the moment.
Back to work tomorrow.
Cheers
Tim
Crap day today. It was supposed to be a nice day in Cirencester having stayed the night in a nice B & B. Of course this did not happen due to their power failure so we got up at a bit of a loss as to what to do instead. However the emotion box got opened again, fuelled by the feeling that we cannot even have a night away without life giving us a good kicking.
So in the end we did very little. Needed a big Tesco shop, great thing to do on a day off! Quick trip to Stratford but we had to get back for my injection so it was very quick.
I did manage a quick run after but as my Garmin decided to switch off, as it seems to be doing a little too often, I don't know how far it actually was. I am trying some really short ones having accepted that 3 miles is a long run at the moment.
Back to work tomorrow.
Cheers
Tim
Monday 1 April 2013
A night away ( or maybe not )
Monday 1st April
So I said yesterday that I did not know if I would post today as we were staying at a B & B near Cirencester and we did not know if it had Wi-Fi or not. It does have Wi-Fi however it currently does not have any electricity! We arrived about 3.30 to be told an electrician was on his way to fix it so we went into Cirencester for a bit but whilst there they phoned to say that the problem could not be fixed. So I am now sat back at home posting this. Seems like our run of bad luck is still going.
Apart from that not a bad day. Lazy start followed by a bit of shopping in Cheltenham, including a nice lunch at the Swallow Café.
My taste buds seem to be recovering back to their old ways just in time for Easter. Last night we opened a dark chocolate egg that I had bought for Mandy and I thoroughly enjoyed it, the first choccy I have eaten in ages. And a nice piece of coffee cake in the café at lunch time. Not good for my waistline but who cares.
We are going out now tonight to make up for having to come home and will debate what to do tomorrow in the morning. We would have spent the day in Cirencester and now have to decide if we can be bothered to drive all the way back.
Cheers
Tim
So I said yesterday that I did not know if I would post today as we were staying at a B & B near Cirencester and we did not know if it had Wi-Fi or not. It does have Wi-Fi however it currently does not have any electricity! We arrived about 3.30 to be told an electrician was on his way to fix it so we went into Cirencester for a bit but whilst there they phoned to say that the problem could not be fixed. So I am now sat back at home posting this. Seems like our run of bad luck is still going.
Apart from that not a bad day. Lazy start followed by a bit of shopping in Cheltenham, including a nice lunch at the Swallow Café.
My taste buds seem to be recovering back to their old ways just in time for Easter. Last night we opened a dark chocolate egg that I had bought for Mandy and I thoroughly enjoyed it, the first choccy I have eaten in ages. And a nice piece of coffee cake in the café at lunch time. Not good for my waistline but who cares.
We are going out now tonight to make up for having to come home and will debate what to do tomorrow in the morning. We would have spent the day in Cirencester and now have to decide if we can be bothered to drive all the way back.
Cheers
Tim
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)