Journey

“ Life isn’t a matter of milestones but of moments”  Rose Kennedy

In those moments Rory finds purpose, satisfaction and joy.  Seeing this I know we made the right decision twice agreeing to cancer treatment to try and save his life, even with the high cost he has paid.  We celebrated Rory’s 20^th birthday with a walk around Pukekura Park and a hot chocolate at the kiosk.  In the afternoon after Colt and I volunteered at the PG Nops weeding bee we all enjoyed a sweet treat at Little Liberty Creamery.  Rory has spent his spare time this week working on the large Lego Marvel set which was his birthday present from us and Grannie and Grandad Gardiner. 

Every week there is disruption to our routine.  On Monday Phil was away from the NP Mens Shed so Sean and Rory hung out together, working out at the gym and checking the predator traps in PG Nops reserve.  Tash was on leave on Tuesday so Sean attended WITT for the morning with Rory.  They called in to Tuhi Ink to book Rory’s next tattoo, the only other birthday present he wanted.  He missed Doggy Day Care on Wednesday as Tash had a bereavement in the family.  Our zoom call with Manawanui, to finalise financial support for Rory in the coming 12 months, fell through as his Case Manager has Covid.  There is always a degree of uncertainty and reactivity in our lives because they revolve around Rory.  If one of his supports falls away Sean or I have to fill the gap.  We have all learnt to go with the flow as there is nothing he, or we, can do about it.  There is only the odd melt down! 

Working full time and continuing to support Rory and our family is challenging for me.  I need time and space to decompress.  On Saturday morning Colt and I walked the Maketawa Loop track on Taranaki maunga.  It was soothing being in the green, in constant movement, away from all the clutter.  Colt and I photographed a lovely cave weta on a rock. 

Sam gave us a scare early in the week when he tested positive for Covid.  He and Caitlyn have been in isolation.  Thankfully he had a mild dose and Caitlyn remained negative. 

Happy Birthday Uncle Guy xox