I went to a chemo infusion room today. Not for me but to visit a dear friend who started chemo this morning. It was a strange feeling walking into the familiar environment but knowing I wouldn’t be getting sick later. It doesn’t seem that long ago that I sat nervously in the chemo chair for the first time not knowing how the following months would be. Then after what seemed like an eternity I was sitting in the chair for the last time, exhausted and weak but grateful it was finally over. I remember new patients starting their chemotherapy journey that day as I was finishing mine, seeing their nervous faces and feeling an ache in my heart for them. And now it’s Patty’s turn at musical chairs, except in this game we all hurry to get out of the chair hoping never to sit down in a chemo chair again. Tonight my heart aches for her too. As I talked with her today my eyes couldn’t help but linger at her beautiful long hair that will be gone in couple weeks… She is beautiful and strong and will bravely battle this disease, then soon will be her time to say good-bye to chemo chairs. Godspeed Patty!
ahealingpath 
Feb 01, 2013 @ 04:59:04
Erin, your heart models the richness found only in the fellowship of suffering. Thanks for this lovely, soul-lifting post.
Feb 02, 2013 @ 01:14:54
Thank you for your kind words, David. I am so thankful for those who have offered me comfort from their experience during this season in my life and only hope I can do the same for others.
Feb 01, 2013 @ 22:04:24
What a wonderful thing really. You are talking about the cycle of success of chemo. That is awesome!
Feb 02, 2013 @ 01:16:46
I guess you are right! I hadn’t thought about it that way 🙂 I am so thankful to have successfully made it through and hope to offer courage and strength to those who will follow. Thank you for your uplifting comment!!
Feb 02, 2013 @ 01:52:27
Thanks for visiting my blog today. Blessings to you as you encourage others!
Feb 04, 2013 @ 05:26:21
Blessing to you too, Patty!
Feb 02, 2013 @ 14:16:49
I can’t help but think that God has allowed us to go through this so that we can “mourn with those who mourn” and be able to encourage them as survivors, helping them to run the race, offering hope and comfort.
Feb 04, 2013 @ 05:25:54
I agree. While I don’t think God gave me cancer, I do believe He has allowed me to see and experience the suffering and now I can show HIs love to others. Blessings to you!!
Feb 05, 2013 @ 03:52:41
It was 10 yrs before I had to see the chemo room again for a friend of mine. It does bring back all those old feelings. Prayer for your friend and for you as you minister to her. Patty
Feb 07, 2013 @ 07:48:37
She is blessed to have a friend like you because not only can you say “I know what you’re going through” and mean it, but you can also stand in faith with her as she believes for her healing! We know that God shows nor partiality, and with faith all things are possible to they who believe! Praying for you both!
Patricia
Aug 22, 2013 @ 15:04:23
I recall the happy dance I did around the chemo treatment room on my last visit. 31 December. I anticipated a new year’s day clinging to the couch trying not to hurt everywhere. And I anticipated a new year of health and blessings. That was 3 years ago and now I look back on what I have dubbed Post Change Syndrome and delight in life with all its challenges and wonder that I got through it. I’m so grateful for everything, and wish you so much good health and more of the strength you have in such abundance.
http://conflictcompetence.wordpress.com/2013/08/22/the-secret-for-recovery-from-post-change-syndrome
Aug 23, 2013 @ 20:25:06
Thank you Deborah, I am so grateful to be healthy and cancer free! Wishing you continued health and happiness 🙂