Blessings and Support Beyond Belief

HALFWAY THROUGH CHEMO
Nicole finished her second round of chemotherapy this week, but you'd never know it by looking. She looks far better than most people you would meet on the street! Not to be fooled - she has other chemo treatment symptoms, but overall she says she feels better than during her previous battles. In meeting with the Physician's Assistant for a short examination prior to this latest treatment, we were over-joyed to hear him say, "You really are doing very well!" We count our blessings.

LOVING KINDNESS AND SUPPORT
The vast outpouring of love and support has been likewise unexpected and appreciated.

• Many friends, neighbors and ward members have been so helpful in bringing in dinner several evenings. What a huge help that has been, especially since Sharon's arm has been less than useful having had shoulder surgery and physical therapy in the middle of Nicole's difficulties. What wonderful chefs we are blessed to know!
• On the evening before her most recent treatment, Nicole's niece Hillary, spent the evening reminiscing and visiting and then left to return home to her husband in Mapleton. A few minutes later she texted me to ask if I thought it would be okay if she went to treatment with us the next morning. She wondered if it would be agreeable with Nicole. Nicole would love it! There were undoubtedly things Hillary had to give up to be able to spend the entire day in support of her aunt. It was delightful listening to the two of them chat and laugh and discuss "life's lessons" together. (They look and act more like sisters than aunt and niece!)
  
• Friends and neighbors have been more than helpful. Nicole and Frank have appreciated the dinners, treats, cards, calls and financial support. A real surprise came recently in the mail from anonymous friends in the form of a thoughtful note and a cashier's check for $500. Unbelievable! They were so touched.
  
• That same day, a kind neighbor on Elm Street mentioned that he hadn't seen Frank and Nicole very much lately and asked it everything was all right. When Frank said that Nicole had cancer and they were spending time at her parents' home, he asked to help. He brought huge equipment and cleaned up the large, unlandscaped section of their property.
  
• For some time, Nicole has gone to the same young woman to get her hair cut. When Nicole called Shelbie to "get it cut short before it all falls out," the stylist, who was expecting her first baby any day, didn't even hesitate. She insisted on coming to our home and would take no compensation for her service. And Nicole's hair is simply adorable!
  
  People are truly amazing!