Flying North....

I’ve now been on “medical sabbatical” for a month. Incredible that learning takes place when all I really have thought about is “what time is tomorrow’s tee time?” Most specifically, I’ve learned that working hard ‘til retiring well is a wonderful objective. No wonder others enjoy their retirement so. Having the funds to do so is quite another challenge for many of my generation. I look forward to solidifying my financial position over the next ten years, and heading off into retirement that will remind me of this sabbatical.

I’ve also learned from others. From the young man with only small stumps instead of hands, and prosthetic legs…that we can all sit in the sun to enjoy Spring Training, regardless of our challenges. From the darling Roberta Bratz, that younger people can have wisdom far beyond their years, and rise to meet the challenges that present themselves when they least want to tackle them. From Michael, that forgiveness is indeed possible, even when a brother has made choices that distance him from family and friends. From Nate, that persistence in the face of distress can overcome the most depressing sequence of events.

After a couple of weeks in California with friends and my parents, I’m now heading home for my FINAL chemotherapy treatment. On the one hand, this is a milestone worth celebrating. On the other, diagnostics may prove that further treatment is required, when we’ll step into the world of radiation pellets and possible surgical interventions. I remember how relieved I was in late July, 2006, when I thought I was done with chemotherapy forever. I thought, at the time, that 12 sessions was an immense total. Now, facing the 30th and a re-diagnosis that surprised us all, I think that 12 was a piece of cake, 25 fairly simple, and the 29th and 30th are those that deserve mention.

Dr. Chang thinks my body has seen enough. Recovery takes nearly ten days, at present, not the predictable week. I’ll spare everyone the messy details…let’s just say the inflow and outgo are the most difficult steps of the recovery. No appetite. No energy. A fear of colds, crowds and infections.

My goal is to overcome those fears, arrive in one piece in front of The Masters on television, and simply enjoy Easter Weekend with CBS and Magnolia Lane. Then I’ll return to California and the lap of my family, enjoying a great local tournament tournament that has become a fixture of many calendars. Many in Lompoc face the economic difficulty so pervasive in the US at present. As a fortunate middle-manager for a successful company, it feels as though I’m personally responsible for the recovery program in Lompoc. I’ll do what I can to assist the Athletic Department, reminding them that 10% unemployment still means that 90% of us still have jobs.

More next week, when recovery works itself to the head of the line. In the meantime, Nate and Jillian will look after me, shower me with their compassion and love, and remind me how very much there is to live for. As if Roberta, Michael, Stevie, Billy, Carrie Ellen & Steve, Donnie & Sonia, Mom and Dad…and everyone else I’ve seen in the last ten days weren’t wonderful reminders, too. Ken, Booby & Terry, Jon & Nancy, May, Patty & John, Toonie and Arlene, Dana Lynn, ‘Kenzee, Kim, Craig & Dalton. I’m a very fortunate guy when I’m able to connect with the people who’ve made such an impact…and I head towards treatment with my head high, so many people behind me, and the consistent “you look great” from all their voices…