Launching into Second Half (with my Friends)

Today the second half of my chemo began, and I started my fourth of six three-week cycles. It was a long day and I was lucky enough to have my very dear friend Kathy drive out from Elk Grove and hang with me the whole time. Kathy and I have been friends since first grade, and one of the nurses commented that her daughter had a trio of friends that had been together as long. Kathy and I both told her about our friend Christine, who moved to Lake Oswego in second grade—so while she’s a close friend, we have never let her forget that she joined us one year late.

A woman next to me came in after I’d introduced Kathy to the nurses and after listening to us talk for a while asked, “Are you sisters”? Another woman at the end of the row said—“No, they are friends, since first grade. A third one joined in second grade”! No secrets in that room I guess.

Thanks to Kathy for coming and for leaving us with a delicious meal. Just after Kathy left, Elizabeth drove up with homemade pizza (and dessert!), then took Alice to soccer practice (totally out of her way, not to mention that Elizabeth has three little ones at home). We are so very grateful for our friends!!