Kicking Cancer

Cycling to my First Chemotherapy

I have decided to ride my bicycle to my first chemotherapy appointment which is scheduled for Monday, May 21.  The 320 mile ride will take six days.  My family will be my sag wagon, as they will follow in an RV.  I will follow Routes 101 and 1.

Through my ride I hope to bring awareness about the disease of cancer, and inspire those going through treatment (or family or friends going through treatment) to have the best possible outlook, and attempt to not let the disease “pull them down” too much emotionally or physically.   Of course there will be times of despair, fatigue, and other hard times, but looking for the positive where one can find it and being able to bounce back from those lows to find moments of joy and peace can be a goal that may make a difference during the difficult experience.

It will have been 26 days since my mastectomy.  My body is healing nicely and I am feeling like I will be up for the ride.  I have received blessings from my supportive doctors (oncologist, surgeon, and physical therapist) for this endeavor, and have been instructed on care for my right arm which is at risk for lymphedema due to removal of 18 lymph nodes at the time of mastectomy.  I will be diligent in checking measurements on my arm and watching for other changes multiple times per day.   I will need to cancel the ride if my body is not up for it and will be psychologically and logistically prepared to do so.   Either way it will be a fun adventure for my family and a fabulous way to spend a week together slowly enjoying the majestic redwoods and scenic coastal northern California.