I wonder if I ever shared this picture here, I can’t remember. I only did a few write-ups about my chemo days, the early years of blogging have been about getting well, getting on with life and trying to live it the best way a cancer survivor can. Would you believe that I met online friends here who shared and underwent similar journeys with me?
Facebook reminds you of a previous post you did years ago on the same day and month that you posted it and I got this.
I remember this….spending my 53rd birthday at the UST Benavidez Cancer Institute while having my 4th chemotherapy. With one of my oncologists, Doc Julie!
Really, it made me smile and memories are reborn. A former classmate in high school prepared snacks for the doctors and nurses at the Ambulatory Care Unit of the UST Benavidez Cancer Institute. She brought a large tray of Pancit Malabon, drinks and cookies. Despite the two IV drips attached to my arm, I enjoyed those moments I spent with the staff. The first time I saw that Oxaliplatin IV drip wrapped in a black cloth bag, I just can’t help but think….that’s poison but still I have to convince myself that it would make me get well.I asked the oncology nurse why it has to be wrapped in black and she said that it should not be exposed to the light.
It was one of the best birthdays ever, because back then, listening to them singing happy birthday made me think that life even at its worse makes you feel happy too.
Dreams And Escapes 
Despite the setting, and the IV lines, it still looks like you had a great birthday, Arlene. And you are here to celebrate the next one, so that’s great news too.
Best wishes from England, Pete.
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Yes, looking forward to my next birthday in two months. Life could be tough at times but the precious memories will get you through. Thanks Pete!
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Lovely photo and memory! So happy that is behind you! I think you could get through just about anything with your outlook and faith, Arlene. xo
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Thanks Kelly!
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Life every single day is a gift Arlene. A nice reason to be thankful for.
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And that gift is more appreciated when you have experienced a life-changing ailment Lou. You’re right, we should be thankful every day of our lives.
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how precious these memories are, Arlene! to take joy in suffering is also a wonderful gift 🙂
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I echo your wonderful words lolaWi…to take joy in suffering is also a wonderful gift…What a lovely way to say it. Faith is a wonderful thing and believing that God is there always in your times of suffering helps you cope with whatever life throws at you. Thank you so much.
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