25 December, 2008

Happy Holidays, Everyone

Precisely the least, the softest, lightest, a lizard’s rustling, 
a breath, a flash, a moment – a little makes the way
of the best happiness.
-   Frederich Nietzsche, Thus Spake Zarathustra

17 December, 2008

It’s been a long, long few weeks for Jim. Interferon’s a bitch, there are no two ways about it.

A little more than halfway through the treatment and Jim is utterly exhausted. His muscles feel constantly as if he’s running a marathon – which I suppose he is. He’s had an unpleasant cough that won’t go away.  A viral infection on his tongue left his taste buds numb for two weeks and the nightly shakes have turned into daily blues. Interferon was postponed yesterday because of high enzymes count in liver. This is due to tongue fungus medication- we’ll find out more today when treatment will likely resume.
 

Despite it all, Jim retains his perspective.
 

Thank you to those who participated in the online auction in any way, shape or form. It was a success on all levels and this is due to your involvement. I don’t know how to thank you, really. The proceeds are going towards defraying the costs of Jim’s many, many medical bills. Nicole Fainaru-Wada and I will begin another fundraising effort in 2009. Stay tuned.
 

Thank you to the Transportation Angels who are taking the time out of their full lives to drive Jim to and from treatment at UCSF. Jim really begins to feel Interferon’s side effects about 45 minutes after each appointment and he simply couldn’t make it home without you behind the wheel.
 

Thank you for sending Jim cards filled with love, for weather-stripping his place, bringing him pillows and home-made feasts, for writing and calling… for caring. It makes every bit of difference in the world.