From Dolly Momma to Thoroughbred

Yesterday was a pretty decent day at Casa de Longo. I stopped by for a visit and momisan looked pretty good today. Emotionally, we take it day by day, but physically…today was a gold star day. I had stopped by to see if mom was going to send anything to Uncle Bob’s funeral and if she needed any help.

When I got to the house, I found mom in the kitchen sorting through her meds and when she saw me standing there, she walked over and gave me a big ol’ hug. I could not help but notice how here hair is growing in. The chemo definitely changed the texture. She used to have really fine hair, but it is much thicker than it was and the color is going to be pretty cool when more of it grows in.

She is just so darn cute! She was telling me that she had gotten up and read the “glob” with her morning cup of coffee. She is techno challenged but that’s what makes it so adorable. You should have seen how excited she got when we set up “mom cam” – she thinks it is so cool to see each other via a web cam and have a real time chat. I think everyone should have a web cam and Microsoft Messenger – especially Cancer patients and their family. Like I have often said, a picture is worth a thousand words and it’s a way for everyone to stay connected and see the progress first-hand.

There are days when I wish I had a pocket-sized “Dolly Momma” just so I can squeeze it and hear those priceless momisms throughout my day.

Speaking of the Dolly, she resembles more of a thoroughbred than a wise sage. Shortly after chemo, she had developed a rash on her leg. Her primary doctor thought is was a reaction to some of the medication she was taking. So he gave her some ointment and that seemed to do the trick. However shortly after her last hospital stay, we noticed that the rash had spread to the other leg and while it was not painful, she did say it was rather itchy.

It turns out that the rash is from excessive fluid retention – who knew that all those fluids (which are important for hydration) would produce a rash. So if you are a Cancer patient and you develop a mysterious rash, find a good dermatologist. It can be treated with a prescription ointment and some Ace bandages that compress the legs. This helps to reduce the fluid and alleviate the rash.

Mom says she looks like a race horse! And ya know…she is right.

And here is how I would imagine that race would be called …

They’re in the gate and they are off
It’s Cancer and Momisan
Cancer and Momisan are neck and neck
It’s Cancer on the turn
Momisan is keeping pace
On the straight away it’s Cancer and Momisan
Momisan is gaining ground
Cancer is fading back
Coming in to the homestretch its Momisan and Cancer
Momisan and Cancer
Momisan leads by a furlong
At the finish line…it’s Momisan!
Momisan takes the win!

…and the crowd goes wild!

For all of you who are betting individuals, here is an insider tip – put your money on Momisan. For those that love her and believe in her, the pay off is going to be BIG!

Find your inner race horse today. It doesn’t make a difference if you are in the lead or trailing, just keep the pace and head towards the finish line.

Blessing to you all!

Val

(The legs of thoroughbred!)