What's Next?

October 13, 2024


What's Next? 

In two days I return to work full time as a teacher.  

In 2024, I taught 3 full days...in January...and each landed me in the ER and/or hospital.  

Over the summer I got to work 2 long days during regents in the gap between chemo and surgery #2...leading to a strained foot at 18K steps. 

Now it's mid October.  

Cancer-Free, but with a high likelihood of recurrence. 

Fresh 10 inch scar down my abdomen from the organ removal and hot chemo bath that removed the remainder of the stage 4 cancer. 

Lower endurance, neuropathy that showed up post surgery, more limited flexibility. 

Hair from every pore... a strange side effect that leads to swimmers ear after every shower. 

A new rash, only visible if you look closely, that requires cream 2x a day yet I don't remember when I applied it last. 

A faith deepened as I rested in God's peace and a huge network of friends and church members prayed for me. 

A new diet and exercise routine to help me stay healthier. 

Mental health support through AYA groups and counseling. 

A thankfulness for my blessings of good insurance, a huge support team, and the ability to accept help cultivated through foster care. 

But Tuesday,

A revised job which allows me to sit less. 

A bathroom in my classroom that will be essential while I realign my digestive system. 

A supportive workplace, but with new admin.

A brand new coteacher who I've never met.

A strengthened willingness and knowledge to ask for what I need and be open about my limitations.  

A plan to ease back in informally, with a plan to make it formal if needed.  

All new kids, unusual in the Special Ed world.

A new school roommate who's cancer aware. 

Ideas for the future of the program and ability to implement some change.

What will the day hold? 

Only time will tell. 

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