Cold temps, Cameron Crazies and Chemotherapy, oh my…
The last 48 hours have been out of the ordinary, to say the least.
Wacky Weather. Everyone is dealing with it (outside of you Southwesterners). It’s colder in Chapel Hill right now than it is in Anchorage, Alaska. Wha? For those of you out there that think this is normal or is just a pattern, it’s not. But I’m staying off my climate change soapbox today. This cold simply is not for me. I’ve lost about 8 lbs since this started, and ya’ll know I don’t have much to spare. Hunkered down till things get back above 45. It’s gonna be bacon and milkshakes and fries when this is all over.
A trip to Hansbrough Indoor stadium (also known as Cameron) for college sports best rivalry game – UNC vs Duke hoops. I mustered up enough energy, and courage, a few nights ago to take up an offer from my longtime friend, and old roommate, Daniel. Last time we did this was 1996. Outside of the final score, could not have picked a better game to go to. An overtime (free basketball as some of us like to call it) thriller. I brought about as much mojo and one dude can bring, particularly sending it down to the Heels in the second half. But then something weird happened with 4 minutes remaining. It was like a force field was blocking the good Heel juju and mojo from the court. I’m not sure who was responsible for this, but have a good idea. LAETTNER. He was in the building. He sold his soul to the Devils Mojo back in 1992 when he hit that prayer vs. Kentucky. He must have some type of super power that he can use every decade or so to make miracles happen in his favor. That’s my take. Damnit Laettner!! Huge thanks to Daniel for taking me, and for the sweet DEAN shirt. Was a very cool tribute to Coach Smith prior to the game and I was happy to be a part of it.
Two down…round 2 in “my chair”. Was back at it yesterday at the Lineberger Center, this time joined by two other long time friends, Robert and Marc. They joined in on the fun from beginning to end and it was great having them there. We were twice asked if we were all brothers, as we were decked in black and all use the same hair stylist. Lots of goofy comments and jokes whenever this happens. We had the docs an nurses laughing/smiling, which lightened things up. College buddy Pat showed up just as I was finishing, and I was so anxious to leave I forgot to get a pic with him too. Bernie, RG and Pat Ho – big thanks for the support fellas! These guys, like many others, have been amazing since day 1 and I can’t thank them enough.
Quick medical notes: My tumor is not near as painful, which means the chemo is working and it has reduced in size. This is good. I got a drip of nausea medicine that will hopefully have me feeling a bit better this time. My white blood cell count is already low, which is natural, especially with the Carboplatin chemo I am receiving. Will get a CT scan in 3 weeks to get a new measurement of that tumor and see if the other little spots are hopefully gone. March 12 is round 3. Game On.
Three brothers??
Moment of silence for Coach Smith
Slim and the Ultimate Warrior
Hang in there. I hope you have some Zofran (ondansetron) and make sure to pair that with some Colace…just saying :-). We are right down the road and here for anything you need…even it is as simple as delivering a six pack of brewskis or some take out (if u have an appetite). Love from Me, Mark and Gabi Grace
Is the doll your Mojo Warrior?
I am so glad you have a wonderful group of friends who are there to cheer you and be with you every step of the way. Just goes to show how much you are loved. You can beat this!
I see the chemo is making hair grow on your face. Very cool!
Shelby! You are in my thoughts and prayers brother
You inspire me..thank you
You inspire me..thank you
Your strength is inspiring! You can do this Sam! Sending lots of love and prayers!
Hey Sam,
Stopping by to say hi and let you know our family continues to send you good vibes! Sounds like you are on the right track and have an amazing support group. Truly blessed there, brother. Knock this thing out so we can get back to some tennis! If there is anything you need, don’t hesitate.
Chris
Hey Sam,
Stopping by to say hi and let you know our family continues to send you good vibes! Sounds like you are on the right track and have an amazing support group. Truly blessed there, brother. Knock this thing out so we can get back to some tennis! If there is anything you need, don’t hesitate.
Chris
Sam, The body achieves what the mind believes. Keep it up. We’re all pulling for you.
Keeping up with the great fight. Stay Strong!!!
Great seeing you a few weeks ago. Sending tons of good energy your way. Best, Tonia
Sam…thinking and praying for you daily!! xoxo
Sending love to you, my brother!
Keep kickin’ ass, Sam. Sending you some Boston Strong mojo.
keep up the good work amigo! Been thinking about you often
Sending lots of warmth, light & healing mojo Sam.
Sending warm weather energy from Southern California Sam! Love that you have good friends by your side!
Thankful to hear that the tumor is not as painful and hope round 2 is not as bad as the first. Great to see you with your brothers and positive spirit!
Thanks for the update Sam, we are thinking about you up here in a place where we’d rejoice if it were even close to 45 degrees! Virtual hugs!!
Salty,
Thanks for the updates brother. Thinking about you every day, and pulling for you. Keep the power strong and keep pushing forward every day, my man. We’re all here to see you through this. Look forward to lunch again, soon, at Sage my friend. And by the way, you’re a darn good writer. Book, any time soon?
jester
Cuz,
Finally got the nerve to say *something*. I’m you’re #1 fan in Texas and couldn’t be prouder of you. I need to convince by boss I need hands-on training near you!
Peace and love
sending good thoughts your way Sam. Will see you smoking the pig at Sam and Diane’s in the fall. One of the neighbors! Jane