Embroidering the R
06/17/2009
When I was in treatment for lymphoma, my immediate goal was to reach remission (my ultimate goal is cure - but I have to get through this "limbo" period of remission first). Although I didn't like chemo, I did like Taking Action. I just wanted the cancer cells Out. Of. My. Body. Mid-way through my treatment (so after 3 cycles of chemotherapy had been administered), I had a PET scan to monitor my progress and see how I was responding to the chemo. I was thrilled to find out that, after only 3 treatments (with 3 more yet to go. . .) I was already in remission! But -- my oncologist warned me "not to embroider the R" quite yet. (She didn't want me to decide the treatments had worked so well that I should just forgo my remaining treatments.) So after all six chemo cycles were complete, I had another PET scan --- and I got great news. Complete remission. No evidence of cancer cells in my body. Now it was official.
My sister embroidered the R for me!
My brother-in-law crafted the exquisite - and really tiny - puzzle box to hold the R!
My Mom and Dad gave me an R charm for my bracelet!
My husband took me out for dinner!
And me? I bought yarn!
And celebrated by knitting myself a "grand prize" sweater! This is Gytha from the Twist Collective. Details, of course, are on my Ravelry page.
It's good to give yourself a treat when you reach a major milestone!
WOW. I can think of many more letters that you or someone else should embroider that represent elements that you embraced along the way - here are just a few: c for courage, p for patience and perseverance, h for hope and s for stamina.
If you were so incined I would love to read about the books, thoughts, and people who provided inspiration to you along the way.
Namaste. (BTW, loved your yoga post)
Posted by: denise copeland | 06/17/2009 at 09:04 AM
Wow! That is a fantastic project and looks great on you! I just started the Vintage Cardigan after discovering it on your blog and I must say I am thoroughly enjoying knitting it! Thanks for sharing!
Posted by: Michelle | 06/17/2009 at 06:58 PM
I agree with Denise above... There are so many more letters representing your story...I have to give you a capital A for amazing. Amazing strength, amazing courage, amazing perseverance...
I also give you an A for your Gytha sweater. I attended a Twist Collective traveling trunk show...I love this sweater. AMAZING YOU!
Posted by: Ina | 06/18/2009 at 02:38 AM
Oh this is very good news.....
I am so happy to read this.
Enjoy your Gytha (it looks great) and celebrate!
Posted by: Ronni | 06/18/2009 at 06:24 AM