I'm back home from the hospital, still regaining my strength but feeling much better. On this Friday, let's enjoy our friends and families on Good Friday and take the week off. Hopefully by next week, all the stars will align to come together for Luminous Mind again.

 

Last week I did have a pulmonary embolism, but when it got to my heart it shattered into countless little bits and dispersed into my lungs. I call it "Medical Tonglen." I'm now on an anti-coagulant to prevent future clotting, plus a filter has been installed in my vena cava to prevent any future clots from getting to my heart. I'm very lucky. An event like this could have been fatal. Instead, I just need to pamper my lungs a bit as they take their time to dissolve the mini-clots and find ways to work around to get the oxygen I need. My hip is also healing well... I can bear weight on it and I'm getting around fine with a walker.

My oncologist has been a champion for getting me the medications and care that I've needed. This morning I had a meeting which should result in my receiving TennCare coverage, retroactive to the date of the breast cancer diagnosis. That was the second day of my first hospitalization, which means that I will only have to pay for that first day in the hospital. That just feels like a miracle to me.

I'm surrounded by friends and community, giving me rides, making meals, and helping in countless ways. I know I am seriously ill, and I seriously plan to kick its butt, but it will take a village. If you'd like to keep up with my journey, I'm journaling at http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/ritafrizzell. For those who would like to know how they can help, visit my Helping Hands site at https://www.lotsahelpinghands.com/c/655887/

Thank you to everyone for your love, prayers and concern. Can't wait to see you soon.