Our Usual Routines

There were no hospital visits this week, so Teresa’s main job was dealing with the arthritis-like joint pain that resulted from the latest chemo treatment, which targeted the bones. When the nausea wells up, it’s time for a Gravol. On the whole Teresa is feeling somewhat better - she’s putting on some weight, and is enjoying Susan’s cooking.

John's mom (left) and Teresa (on couch)

We celebrated Christmas with a family dinner last Sunday Dec23, since Susan had to work a shift in the hospital on Christmas Day. That’s how it is for nurses, since they are “essential services”. John’s mother came by, and Susan prepared a wonderful feast of turkey, mashed potatoes, beans, brussels sprouts, turnip, and salad. Mom managed to get up for the meal, but was either laying on the couch or in her room for the rest of the time.

Kathryn and Ian, after a great Christmas dinner

Other notable events this week included the delivery of a nice floral arrangement from Mom’s friends at the Brampton West Alliance Church. Very much appreciated! Mom’s youngest sister Nelly visited on Dec27 with her husband Fred and daughter Miriam. We enjoyed a really good evening, and Mom managed to participate for the entire visit.

Ian reading a rather large Christmas card

Here is a list of our usual routines …

Mom prepares a simple breakfast of plain yogurt every day, and washes some dishes if she’s feeling up to it. She also takes phone calls from her children, relatives, and friends. These calls are a real encouragment to her, and come from as far away as Japan and Holland. Teresa also likes reading on the living room couch (National Post newspaper, plus the Narnia books by C.S. Lewis). If there is something worth watching on TV, that’s always an option as well.

Susan prepares lunch every day, and dinner on the days that she’s not working. She also helps Mom to take a bath, handles the laundry, and keeps the entire house clean. Susan and Teresa often engage in spirited conversation, something they both enjoy.

John handles the more pedestrian tasks such as checking on Teresa’s house, picking up the mail, banking, and printing off Teresa’s e-mails for her. For those of you who send personal e-mails and are wondering if Teresa reads them, rest assured that she does! John also assembles and heats up supper for Mom on the days that Susan is working. Running a microwave counts as work, right?

The next chemo treatment is scheduled for January 9. Thanks as always for your prayers, phone calls, and e-mails.