I've been remiss in writing updates. Not that I didn't want to, but because of a lack of energy.
The double-whammy of chemo and radiation has had a far bigger impact on my energy levels. Doing all the daily tasks I need to do to stay on top of my treatment, trying to help Rita with basic household tasks, and working for my clients is exhausting.
This week I completed my fourth week of the seven-week treatment plan. It's the middle week.
A good friend and long-time fellow bike racer and cyclist, Dave, reached out to me this week. It was a high point for me.
I have great admiration and respect for Dave. He's a few years older than me and was another rider, like George, who helped me as a Junior racer. After club races, Dave would take me out for a few extra miles and work on my pack riding skills, teaching me how to respond when another rider bumped or leaned into me. We also practiced drills where we intentionally touched or crossed wheels and learned to stay upright. It was Dave's mentoring and guidance that made me a better rider. Personally, I don't know any rider with better pack instincts or riding skills than Dave. I trust Dave more than anyone next to me in a race.
The text I received from Dave was succinct, just like his best advice has always been.
“Endure. You'll get through this.”
I replied to Dave, saying, "Yesterday was my halfway point in my treatment. I crested the climb, still in the pack, and heading for the finish line."
I had been pondering my situation. Was this middle week really the halfway point? They say the radiation effects will accumulate. Maybe this isn't the crest but a false flat? I have also likened this week to being halfway through a tunnel. Soon I will see light. How soon, though? Maybe it's both? A tunnel at the top of a pass.
The problem with tunnels is that while you focus on what's in front of you, you don't know what lurks in the shadows next to you. Regardless, you need to keep the faith in yourself and continue. Just like in a bike race, when you get jostled about by other riders bumping into you. You lean back, stay upright, keep pedaling, clear the hazard, and stay the course.
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