Krueger Fest

25 days I thought.  I just have to get through these last 25 days of radiation treatment, 5 days a week.  I can do this!  After radiation, I was to rest for about 30 days and then, Dr. Truty would perform the surgery to remove the tumor.

The weather was lovely in the middle of August when I started daily radiation. I chose not to utilize a free stay at the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge in Rochester, MN.   The plan was for me to receive a chemo pill daily called capecitabin, which qualified me.

Instead, my sister in-law managed a sign-up list for daily drivers to take me to Rochester.  I can't tell you what a blessing that was to me.  Many of my wonderful drivers would say that it felt like they just sat down in the lobby, and it was time to head back home.  Radiation sessions lasted about 10 minutes.   However, there was a brief prep time and the post treatment gathering of my clothes and possessions.  I was grateful that people were willing and able to do this, as it allowed me to stay at home with Jim and work from home during the time surrounding these treatments.  This also, allowed him to work his day job although he definitely did his share of driving to the Mayo Clinic.

A couple weeks after I started this treatment, Jim and I held a party in our backyard so that our band could play.  We called it Krueger Fest, where Honey and the Badgers would play for family and friends.  I felt really bad that we had to put the band on hold, missing the local blues band competition that we had entered.  At the beginning of Krueger Fest my mom was concerned, tried to talk me out of singing and told me to not overdo it.  What else is a mom to say?  Lol…It makes me smile.

I was able to perform lead vocals. Our set list was only 12 songs, which made it possible.  It was challenging, but the Badgers helped with everything.  I mainly just had to sing and run the sound board.  I didn't have to leave the house, and everyone came to us. Those attending brought food to share, potluck style.  My nephew, Aaron brought his delicious, pulled pork and served everyone.  We did have a lot of fun. I was pretty tired by the end of the day, but I found enough energy to sit around a campfire with a few friends and family members.  This is part of us being normal.

My final day of radiation arrived on 9/17.  I rang the bell, signifying completion of all my radiation sessions and as per usual, many in the lobby clapped and congratulated me on reaching my milestone.  I did it!

Now it was my job to stay strong, get in my walks and eat right so that I would be tough enough for the surgery in approximately one month.  I was relieved, excited and thankful that I had completed all scheduled treatments.  Next, it was Dr. Truty and team's turn to do the work of surgery to remove the tumor.