Journey

Normality is a paved road:  It’s comfortable to walk but no flowers grow (Vincent van Gogh). 

While we strive to have varied, vibrant and full lives we appreciate a foundation of normality after so many years of change with Rory.  This week we resumed almost standard functioning of our household.  I returned to work at TRC, Sean re-started part-time hunting and Rory spent most days with his  Support Carers, including one morning at NP Men Shed with Peter.  We are all better for it.  This week Rory had a sore spine which caused Sean and I a flutter of anxiety.  Our first thought is always ‘is this a sign of cancer returning’?  Do we need to take action?  Does he need a scan?  We have ‘missed’ his cancer twice when he had headaches due to brain cancer aged 6, and a painless lump on the side of his face due to bone cancer aged 17.  Due to intensive treatment Rory has beaten the odds for now, but his chances of being lucky a third time are miniscule.  An earlier cancer diagnosis means less likelihood of spread and an increased chance of survival.  The weight of whether to act if Rory complains of something is a heavy burden for Sean and I to bear.  This month another young boy, who was on treatment at the same time as Rory, passed away aged 13.  We never forget how lucky we are Rory is still with us. 

This morning we divided and conquered.  Colt and I tramped Otunahe loop at Purangi Walks  https://www.facebook.com/purangiwalkstaranaki/  It was an awesome way to spend a Sunday morning.  The cost of the walk supports the protection of Western brown kiwi living in the forest.  Sean and Rory walked/rode down to Lure café in Inglewood for a mocha and fed some apples to Jelli their cafe pig.