DAILY NANCY UPDATE #113

Greetings. 

This is the one hundred and thirteenth in a series of DAILY NANCY UPDATES I will be posting until the amazing Nancy Neufeld Callaway is in full remission and we have kicked her leukemia on its ass. 

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FRIDAY REPORT

I truly can't believe what Nancy accomplished today. And I was actually there to witness it.

After waking up particularly alert and impressing Dr. Forman-- Nancy woofed down a big breakfast, put on a gown and a mask, then slid into a wheelchair for a ride with me and her sweet friend Ellen. 

Why a wheelchair? Because we decided to go on an adventure!

With the good doctor's blessing, NANCY WENT OUTSIDE FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 53 DAYS. 

We took her to the  beautiful Japanese Garden where until now, I've only contemplated the beautiful koi pond alone. But she finally got to see it for herself! Then we took her through City of Hope's peaceful outdoor sculpture and rose gardens.

But that's not all. After that-- she came back for a ZUMBA CLASS with other patients in the 6th floor lobby! That's right. A damn Zumba class. Sure, we were all seated. But if I told you it made me break a sweat, I would not be lying. And I didn't just beat leukemia!

That was followed by a ravenous lunch-- and then? THEN SHE PLAYED A MEMORY CARD GAME with me and Ellen and her occupational therapists-- that I don't mind telling you, was hard for me-- and I'm not recovering from a seizure. Yes, you're correct. I suck.

Only hang on-- we're not finished.

Next, her amazing father drove all the way out just to check on his favorite girl. And she had a lively hour long conversation with him, followed by a bandage change on her Hickman line, then ANOTHER LONG WALK out to the 6th floor lounge to enjoy the view.

And finally, after dinner-- when most of us would've curled up in the fetal position and fallen fast asleep-- she curled up in the fetal position and NANCY HAD HER SIXTEENTH SPINAL TAP to test and make absolutely sure there's no more HHV6 virus in her spine and/or brain before the doctor takes her off the powerful anti-viral she's been on for over 30 days.

I'm telling you... the Sunshiny Superwarrior Goddess's strength, patience, courage, and perseverance are truly mind-blowing. And as soon as we get her through the weekend and those last test results come back clear... 

WE'RE GOING HOME. 

WE LOVE NANCY, and... 

ALL IS WELL!

If you'd like to send Nancy a little love (please no flowers, balloons, or food), PLEASE TAKE NOTE OF THE ADDRESS AND NEW ROOM NUMBER BELOW:

Nancy Neufeld Callaway

City of Hope Hospital

1500 E. Duarte Rd.

Helford Bldg. Rm. 6127

Duarte, CA 91010

Meal Train For The Callaways