Hi friends, family, and curious onlookers. I apologize for the long gap between updates. Between the holidays, out of town guests, and, well, cancer, I’ve had a full plate.
I’m starting to feel some of the after-effects of my whole brain radiation (WBR) that I was warned about. Specifically, nausea, hair loss (all of it…sigh), some ringing in my ears, and occasional memory issues. I’ve also found myself grasping for words in conversation. It feels like my speaking vocabulary often devolves into a Trumpian patter of “great,” “huge,” “tremendous,” and “incredible” because my real-time mental thesaurus is malfunctioning. Writing is fortunately a better situation, because I’m not on a deadline and I can find the right words if I just give it time.
My latest CT scan from the neck down last month yielded good news (no progression of cancer). I also had my WBR follow-up brain MRI this past Friday and will have an appointment with one of my radiation oncologists, Dr. Park, tomorrow to discuss the results. I’ll do my best to blog again by the end of the week with an update on that appointment. In the meantime, here’s a little year-end list of personal predictions for the coming year.
Paula’s Realistic Resolutions for 2018
- I’ll take the Christmas tree down before Valentine’s Day (the Christmas village may have to wait until March).
- I will try and write more often, and I will apologize less frequently for not writing more often.
- I will go to a minimum of 30 doctor appointments this year, but I will attempt to keep the hospital stays to just one or two at the most.
- I will retain all my marbles. I may not be able to use them all at once, but I will have them and deploy as necessary.
- I will gain enough attention-span/concentration back to not have to start a book alllllll over again every time I pick it up. Starting a chapter over, however, is acceptable.
- We will spend more time with all of our kids (especially those not living with us, which is three-fourths of the brood).
- We will go to Cas’s final family weekend at Smith in October as he will be in his senior year.
- I will spend more time catching up with friends, old and new.
- I will turn 50 this year (all I have to do is stay alive to make that one).
- We’ll check London and London-associated activities off of my bucket list in honor of my 50th.
Love it and can relate to many on your list (especially #5!) Best wishes on achieving all 10!
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You have the most reasonable of all plans for the year. I’ll keep you in my prayers that all your plans and hoped are realized. You are an inspiration for anyone who thinks they have it tough!
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Thanks Flo. I hope we can work Jersey into our travels in 2018.
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Paula, I pray that 2018 brings you many blessings of health so you can achieve your entire list. Look ing forward to number 8, catching up! Sending hugs and kisses your way chica. ; )
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Thanks Zen! I look forward to number 8 too! When it starts warming up we’ll have to plan something. Hugs to you and the family, too (and WOW Elijah is getting big)! xo
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Paula – I am looking forward to both of us turning 50 this year. I also to fully chat with you about the Mayan MC series which I assume you will be watching when not in London 😉
You continue to be an inspiration.
All the best for a great year!
Sid
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Thanks, Sid. I am totally watching the Mayan MC series. I recently re-watched the series finale of SOA (because I came across it on FX cable), and was reminded of what a kick-ass series it was. Need my Kurt Sutter fix!
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There are so many distressing things going on in the world. Then, I read your message and I tell myself, ” There is goodness, bravery, hope and courage in the world.” So fortunate to have your inspiration. Wishing you all the best life has to offer in 2018.
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Writing for you on your worst day is still incredibly better than mine on my best day! You are so brave and funny! Sending love and prayers always. Loved the pictures. 💕
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Thanks Teesa. Much love to you and yours!
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A CHAMP as usual, Paula!!! Were your ears ringing today? Ann Gault and I were talking about working with you on the phone today! Sending you strong vibes to add to the many strong vibes you’ve already got. xoxoxo Ginger, Roger, Lucy and Violet
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Thank you Ginger! I appreciate the love and vibes!! And I know I’m super tardy on saying this, but CONGRATS on baby Violet! I need to check Twitter more. 🙂
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I am so blessed to have such a brilliantly beautiful, courageous and kindhearted soul to know as Mom. Thinking of you Always and looking forward to this new year to reach and squash goals, and I too hope, like goal six on your list, to share the hurdles and victories with everyone.
Great news it sounds like from your update. Love you mom!
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Love you too, John. And I’m hoping for the very best 2018 for you, sweetie! XO
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We love you Paula. So proud of the woman you are. Number 10 will be fabulous!
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Love your Trumpian patter reference, AND going to London goal! Can we chip in? Really appreciate you sharing your experience. Sending you love!!!
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Thanks Theresa. Love right back to you! I do have a YouCaring page set up for any contributions (in memory of my dad, who passed in February), and it was a huge help in getting us to Sturgis and the Grand Canyon and other bucket list spots out West this past summer. In fact, that reminds me that I need to go update my bucket list page to cross out those we’ve hit! Anyway, you can see it here: https://www.youcaring.com/paulafordmartin-758684/donate/general
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