Hair today, gone tomorrow!

Well, sorry about that bad hair joke...I just couldn't resist. Two Wednesdays ago I finally took the plunge and went to see my hairdresser about doing something with my hair...or what was left of it. It was definitely time to have my head shaved. My friend Karey came along for moral support and to take pictures. My dear hairdresser Marie-Claude was so gentle and encouraging as she took off what was left of my hair. She even finished it off with head massage! So how do I feel about my new bare look? Actually, it doesn't bother me as much as I thought it would. I actually find myself not bad looking at all. Because of the winter, I do find it cold at times, so I usually keep my head covered even at home. I was able to attend a "Look good, feel great" workshop at the Canadian Cancer Society last week and came home with a box full of skin care products and make up. What a treat! Everyone there was so great and caring. They even lent me some more scarves and hats and I rented a wig! I put it on before coming  home and the girls had quite the surprise! They say it makes me look younger! And so I turn the page to this next stage in the journey.

This Tuesday I will be having my 3rd chemo treatment. I am not anticipating it to be much different from the others because it's still the same medication. I have been reading a book by a doctor who has worked with cancer patients for years. It has been very helpful. He talks about the difference he sees in patients when they have a positive attitude about their treatments. I am thankful to have so many people encouraging me to persevere and not get discouraged. I have been touched by verses that speak of being joyful even during trials and of the hope we have as believers:
"And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us." Romans 5: 2b-5


Emily Dickinson wrote this poem:

Hope is the thing with feathers,
That perches in the soul,
And sings the tune without the words,
And never stops at all.

And so I move forward with hope - hope in each step of the journey, hope to discover all the treasures that are hidden for me as I learn so much about myself, others and God and hope for a healthy body once this is all over.

Here's a look at the new me!

Well, it's done.

Dear Marie-Claude - such a big support!

With my dear friend Karey, my photographer and favorite cheer leader

 

This is me for the next few months