Monday, December 5, 2011

"She wears a scarf and a smile ...

Some people say we have a strange relationship. I usually talk to my mom in some way or form every day, whether it's through text, a phone call, or email. I've grown up watching her bake in the kitchen, I've sat next to her in the lawn chair while we soak up that beautiful thing called sunshine. We've laughed till we cried and cried till we laugh. I will call her if I dont know the answer and I usually will get a "like" on anything facebook related... (she tends to be a stalker)

Recently my twitter feed has been blown up with this thing called a #ViciousPacman - Friends have asked what it is, others knew and have been an incredible support. In May, mom was diagnosed with Breast Cancer (or the BC as we call it in our house.) We immediately, or as immediate as it could be, had a plan and had to wait. I can tell you, the waiting game is the worst game ever, but we made it through part of the storm. After rounds of tears, some laughter, a ton of support, a wedding, and chemo we are onto the next step.


Radiation. Today, mom started radiation. One down, Thirty two to go, was what she said to me on the phone tonight. :) 32 to go.




BUT, as frustrating and scary things have been these past few months, some incredible things have happened too. We've had flowers, cards, emails, pre-made dinners, and tons of friends drop by the house as continued support. Unfortunately, with the sisters and I living a few states and towns away we haven't been able to witness it all, but having my mom call and say, "you wont believe..." on the phone, I can feel the love through her voice.

Tonight, after our usual discussion, mom decided to bring up that she got a letter from the hospital where she works today. She tried to remember most of what it said, but the gist of it basically said, "Sandy, there is a fund at the hospital in which employees can nominate or try to help one another out when they are going through something personal. Your coworkers have come together and we are going to support you in this way." This isn't the first time that my mother's coworkers have done something like this over the past few months, but every time something like this happens, my mother is in awe. I can usually hear a few tears in her voice and usually begin to choke up as well.

The best part of the entire letter was the description of my mother from the individuals at work...

"she wears a scarf and a smile and makes sure everyone else is taken care of before herself, so Sandy, take some time for yourself."


Thanks Firelands Dialysis Unit for loving my mom so much. We couldn't have made it to this point without you.
1 down, 32 to go.

6 comments:

meggles said...

I love this. So much. Heard "I'm gonna love you through it" on the radio today...usually can't listen to the whole song without crying. Love you so much. My heart is always always always with you, even a whole state away.

KathiCook said...

Anna, I can not imagine what you are going through, and I never want to. You and your family are so strong...and I always see you all w.smiles on your faces! That's so amazing what the hospital did for her, and hope they also offer her support
..its truly warms my heart to know there are still people out there like that.... best wishes and your all in my prayers! *Kathi*

Jess said...

Anna-
Unfortunately, I have an idea of what you are feeling through this time. My father-in-law just came through lymphoma. Funny thing is, he also worked at a dialysis unit! The road is long and bumpy, but God is with you and before you and behind you all the way. Blessings to you and your family. I love you!

Jess

Paul Lidy said...

The Lidy's love Mamma Pawsey!

karen said...

Anna, What a wonderful tribute to your mother! Your mom & dad raised some awesome young ladies. I know the are incredibly proud of all of you. My prayers are with your mother as she goes through the radiation, and for your family as you give her the love & support she deserves.
Love 'ya, sweetie,
Karen Sawyer

The Peppermint Mocha Chronicles said...

Also did I mention that this post made me cry? Damn you Pawsey women, I love you all so much. :)