Is there a treat in treatment? by Syndi Powell



Is There a Treat in Treatment? by Syndi Powell



The word treatment contains the word "treat", but lately I've been struggling with the side effects of fighting for cancer. There doesn't seem to be any treat involved. Unless you count the fact that I'm six months away from the end of my five years and will be officially in remission.

This morning, I will be seeing my oncologist to get the test results from my recent blood work. We are also discussing what these last six months of treatment will look like. I still have two chemo injections and six months of a daily pill to take, and the side effects will only be getting worse. 

BUT (isn't that a great word?)
There is always hope because the end is in sight. After four and a half years, I'm on the slope downhill and can see the finish line. I will be running towards the end of this long marathon with hands held up high in victory. Cancer tried to destroy me, but the joke was on it. I have been fighting this long, and I am winning this fight. 



Next month, I have friends who will be holding a Relay for Life to raise money for the American Cancer Society. I have participated in the past and have always been awed by the first lap of the cancer survivors. Even now, I tear up as I think of the men and women who walk with heads high and fists in the air because we won't let cancer win. 

And even if my cancer returns some day, I will not be defeated. I will fight it with everything I have just as I have these last four years. My books in the Hope Center stories were written in the hopes of inspiring other readers to not give up hope. As long as there is breath in our bodies, we have the chance to tell cancer, "Not today!" 

So as I talk to my doctor about these last six months and the "treats" I get to look forward to, I know that victory is in my grasp. To celebrate the end of treatment, my family (including my niece Megs who is pictured above with me - isn't she beautiful?) will be going to Disney World in December. That will by my real treat!

On a side note, I recently received the cover of my September 2019 book, "Their Forever Home". Doesn't it make you want to sit on that porch curled up in the wicker chair with a good book? 


Comments

  1. Your smile in that photo, Syndi, tells me much about your feisty spirit and zest for life. I wish you all the best in your fight...you’ve gone through a lot. A family vacation is the perfect celebration and will be the best ‘treat’. As for the cover of your new book...lovely! I want to sit on that porch!

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  2. What a beautiful and inspiring post! We're all cheering for you these last 6 months. And what better way to celebrate than Disney World! And your cover is beautiful. I would love to curl up and read on a porch like that!

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  3. So happy to hear that you're on the downhill slope and that you are winning against this really horrible disease. I will be cheering you all the way. Kick up your heels at Disney World.

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  4. I am happiest when I have something to look forward to whether it's a cup of hot tea and book in the bath before bed or a family vacation. I wish you a wonderful time in Disney with your family. What a great thing to look forward to! Your hope and strength doesn't have to be strong every day, but your desire to inspire others is such a gift to the world. Thanks for sharing:-)

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  5. I hope I'm invited to a party on that porch! Would love to celebrate the end of the five years you've dealt with cancer. Have a great time at Disney World.

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  6. Cheering you on, Syndi! It's hard to believe it's been almost five years. You are such an inspiration. There's no telling how many people will be helped by your post today. God bless you!

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  7. Best wishes on the next six months and have a wonderful trip to Disney World when it's completed. I really like the cover of your book and can picture any number of possible views - the best being friends and family.

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  8. Best wishes as you near your remission date!

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  9. Your strength inspires me! I am so glad you are treating yourself to such an exciting trip! Wishing you all the best as you finish up your treatment. The new book cover is lovely, I want to join you on that porch. I have a September book too. I'm excited that we're book release buddies!

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  10. Yes, treat yourself and your family. Cheering you on these last six months.

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  11. Syndi - hello from another September book release buddy and a sister in the fight against cancer! I've only begun the climb but in a few years hope to be where you are now. :) Congratulations on hitting the downward slope, and lots of luck with getting some treats that are *really* treats. Holding my fist high for you!

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