So, it's come to this...

So, it's come to this, I thought to myself... 

I sat in the doctor's office and was having a three-way discussion regarding side effects. I seemed to have been slipping back into a disturbing pattern. I was getting pretty sick more and more frequently. I had high hopes as we started summer. We adjusted my meds down, and I stopped getting sick. I felt more human. It didn't last. 

We came up with a good plan. I'd proactively take some anti-nausea meds a few days before my "scheduled" throw up days. Maybe that would push off that side effect. 

As my wife, the doctor, and I wrapped up the conversation, I started to get ready to leave. I thought we were ready to go. 

I head Lissa ask, "Oh, and do you think we could get a Handicap Parking Permit for Garth?"

What?!? I am not handicapped! Yes, there are days that the fatigue wins, and walking can be tiring. There are many days that I kick the fatigue's butt and I feel like I could run a race. I do not see myself needing a special parking permit. Well, not on most days, anyway. 

So, it's come to this... 

The paperwork was ready before we left the office. The DMV visit was uneventful, and a few days later I received my permit. I leave it in my truck, just in case. You never know when it might be useful. 

So, it's come to this...

I look at that permit each time I drive somewhere. I see it as another challenge. Can I choose to NOT use it this day? Can I beat this? Can I choose to be stronger than this sickness? 

Damn straight I can. 

In Liebe, dein Dad

Garth remembers some of his time in Germany.

Hat tip to Alex Kulle, Thomas Rodeck, and Craig Parsons. I am sure you never expected this picture to make it to the internet!

Whack

I'm at St Mary's for an MRI. I have two thoughts in my head this morning:  

1) The Napkin Note post will be late today. I'm sorry. I did write it, but had to get here early and didn't have time to post.  

2) Why is it that I don't know how much my MRI will cost until after I get the bill?!? Is there any other good or service that Americans purchase without having a concrete idea of the cost? 

First Day of 10th Grade

Napkin Note: 

Dear Emma, 
I am so proud of the young woman you have become! You're smart, compassionate, witty, and athletic. Good luck, sophomore! You've got this!! 

Love, Dad 

Pack. Write. Connect. 

"Hands Free Life" Book Review

I was honored to be asked to review a copy of "Hands Free Life" by Rachel Macy Stafford (Hands Free Mama) earlier this year.

It took one day. I only could allow one day to read "Hands Free Life: Nine Habits for Overcoming Distraction, Living Better, and Loving More". I was busy being a dad, a husband, and cancer patient. I knew I was distracted, but there was a purpose. I was on a mission and I acknowledged my limited time left. As I settled in to read Rachel's words, my heart stayed in my throat the entire journey. She gets it. She knows we're distracted and it's not just the amount of screens we have in our lives. It's our incredibly complex, crazy, and somewhat out of control lives.  

Rachel Macy Stafford will help you reconnect and build strong relationships. Even if you make a moderate amount of effort, your family will thank you for strengthening your relationships! Once again, I owe Rachel a big "Thank You" for bringing relationships and family to the forefront of everyone's minds.

The book is coming out next month. Pre-order a copy today!

Amazon: goo.gl/VzD6xZ
Barnes & Noble: goo.gl/KBavt4
Indie Bookstores: goo.gl/qwd7X7