9 March 2015

This week marks the finish of my first bottle of the cancer drug Pazopanib, and I’m onto the next. All continues to go well, with no side effects, but hopefully lots of effect on the cancer cells. Another 2 months until I have an assessment to determine how things are progressing. Meanwhile yesterday was quite an extraordinary day, with strong and fervent prayer for me in the church service, and also an unexpected afternoon visit at home with the same. We are feeling very encouraged by this, and know we are in God’s hands wherever this journey takes us.

Last week I attended two sessions of the Cancer Rehab Group. The first hour involved a ‘tailor-made’ exercise regime, and the second hour a guest speaker – so far this has been a dietician and also a cancer nurse, both based here at Portland Hospital. It’s a worthwhile project that will run for 8 weeks, and it is very good for me to be doing some form of targeted exercise. Tomorrow I begin the pool exercise program too, so that will be a stretch!

Last week I enjoyed some lovely visits from friends and family. Simon spent time with us over the weekend and it was a tonic to see him (our home computer is running ever so much quicker as a result of this visit!) We spent time driving around (in the Portland drizzle), checking out the cruise ship in the harbour, and leaving Simon somewhat gob-smacked at the incredible angle that the B-double trucks are lifted up to download woodchips for export. Caitlin unfortunately was a little too distanced to come to Portland as she is currently in Liverpool on a work-related trip, and Simon will join her in Europe shortly for a few weeks break.

Unloading woodchips at Portland harbour

Cruise ship and market stalls at overcast Portland harbour

 

Meanwhile I had a funny call from a friend in Queensland this week. She felt moved to send some flowers to me, and located a Portland florist online. She placed the order and paid for it, but got a return email asking for her to confirm our address for delivery. This she did, but several more confused emails took place before my friend discovered that her order had been placed at a florist at Portland OREGON! It’s just as well there are no Shirva Crescents there, or someone would have received a most unexpected delivery! The florist very obligingly returned her payment, and I have since received a most beautiful arrangement from Portland Florist VICTORIA!

Delivered from Portland VICTORIA