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TJ's Challenge Blog

As the Finish Line Approaches…

2/18/2012

17 Comments

 
Picture
It has been over a month since the last time I have written, and it has certainly not been due to a lack of content. As I progress to the last quarter of my chemotherapy treatments, the side effects become exaggerated. A subtle fog creeps over my mind as the potent poison not only attacks the cancer but nerves throughout my body, including in my brain. You may notice during conversation with me a pause… as words, numbers, thoughts and even names ...
drift into the fog becoming difficult for me to visualize and then in turn annunciate before the meaning is lost.  It is truly a very aggravating feeling, being quick witted as many of you may know from my numerous attempts at sarcasm or humor over the years is a pretty large part of what makes me, well I guess, me.

With each chemo cycle becoming more difficult, I have noticed that the slope of this race has gradually increased and that the finish line lies at the top of a hill. The hill at times can look mountainous,  especially as I think of what follows my last scheduled cycle of chemotherapy. Twenty six days of radiation therapy combined with chemotherapy. That means Monday through Friday for 6 weeks straight I will be wearing my  extremely uncomfortable 5-FU chemotherapy pump, while also being administered daily doses of radiation in the hospital. No more 12 day breaks, just a month and a half of what in mind seems like hell on earth.  It can be, it is, at times overwhelming, but there are no more tears left to vent the frustration, only a burning acid remains. What can one do when crying only brings you more pain? My answer, unchanged, unwavering,  keep trudging forward.

When at wits end, perspective is a valuable tool. The terrifying mountain before me shrinks to the figurative mole hill compared to my treatment at its entirety and of my accomplishments so far. A year of pain, seems insignificant if it can grant many years of beautiful, loving, feeling, life. And most of all, the fear of treatment and nauseating nightmares that follow are whisked away by day dreams of white sand beaches, winter weddings and growing old with my beautiful bride to be.

Often people ask me how I do it? How do I stay positive and keep moving forward with my treatment. My answer as I have said before is you… All of you here, reading, praying, loving, filling me with energy are the reasons why and how I do it. Because I look forward to experiencing the rest of my life with you and the beautiful memories we will make together. So as the finish line approaches, I trudge forward… up hill… to slay the evil beast once and for all.

Much Love,

Teej

p.s. I would like to dedicate this blog to my dear friend Tamara. She is the definition of a cancer survivor and fighting one of the hardest fought battles I have ever seen. She is without a doubt one of the strongest people I have ever known and is also the first person to show me how to be strong and persevere against this stupid disease. She has surgery on the 29th to kick some cancer ass. So I ask you please to include her in your thoughts, prayers and send any positive energy her way. Thanks for showing me how to be strong tamtam,  love you!

17 Comments
joe roller February 18, 2012
10/9/2015 03:40:58 pm

Teej,

Good to hear your voice. We know how difficult this latest round has been. Just when you think things can’t get more difficult, they do. We remain with you as you fight the fight, sending lots of positive thoughts, feelings, and vibes your way and to Tamara.

Best wishes.

Joe

Reply
The Fabick family February 18, 2012
10/9/2015 03:41:22 pm

We know that this battle has not been easy and the side effects have come on stronger and quicker but keep fighting. Like you said when you kick the cancer in the buttock, this battle will all be worth it. When you are having a bad day or a tough time, look into the eyes of that beautiful bride to be of yours. Not only do you have Amanda, you have you amazing family and all of your army right there with you. And as of Jan. 15th, you have one new army member, rooting and praying for you. We love you and are thinking about you!! Kick some cancer butt! :)

Reply
Marge Kaplan February 19, 2012
10/9/2015 03:41:46 pm

Dear Teej,
If attitude cured you would be 100 percent cancer free! We all hope for your friend Tamara too. Soon good days to come for you my friend. Love, Margie

Reply
Katharine Scheid (Wilson) February 19, 2012
10/9/2015 03:42:10 pm

Make that two new members. :):)

We missed your updates but took the cue that it was time to send more prayers for strength your way. Looking at my two little babies makes me so excited for you! Some day soon, I know that you and Amanda will be surrounded by sounds of small people (if that’s what you choose… no pressure;), in a home overflowing with love, and healthy cells. The best part is, you will appreciate it all… every good thing headed your way, more than any of the rest of us will ever know.

Until then, breathe deep and… continue. We’re behind you!

Katie, Gary, J.D. and Evangeline Rose (the newest)

Reply
Robin Michael February 20, 2012
10/9/2015 03:42:38 pm

You continue to inspire me. On the days that I get a little down because of a medical condition I have, your blogs set me down the right path. You are an inspiration to so many people. Keep trudging, you do it so well and you will finish! I always keep you in my prayers.

Hugs,
Robin (good friend of Ang, Mike, your mom and dad)

Reply
Linda Clark February 20, 2012
10/9/2015 03:43:17 pm

I continue to be amazed at you each time I check in to see where you are in your treatment and how you always have the upper hand in this battle. I love your vision of climbing a mountain for a number of reasons. I’ve hiked a lot of spectacular ones, particularly the Canadian Rockies and recently the Swiss Alps. They are daunting and rugged as is your journey. However, when you reach a summit you gain a whole new perspective on the world. Not only is the view breathtaking but there’s also such a feeling of total satisfaction to have this moment of beauty and
and peace with this world. But most of all that mountain represents power and strength and resilience, all of which you represent to me on this journey. Just keep visualizing that view at the top!!

Reply
Dave February 20, 2012
10/9/2015 03:43:40 pm

Hi Teej, I think about you daily, pray for you to have the will and drive to fight the fight! You have been a real trooper through it all and you need to know we are all behind you!! When you feel like you are down and out just look around you, feel the positive energy and support coming from all directions – those with you and those of us who are not in visible sight but none the less WE ARE WITH YOU!!! Fight the fight, kick “C’s” ass! You can do it we all believe in you and are sending love and prayers. This is not an easy path to walk but WE believe in you!!!God bless you!

Dave

Reply
Lauren February 21, 2012
10/9/2015 03:44:04 pm

Youre a complete inspiration to all…. I love and miss you dearly and think of you often. You’re the strOngest person i know…. Keep on keeping it on… Xoxoxxoxo,Laur

Reply
Mike Wren February 29, 2012
10/9/2015 03:44:28 pm

Hey bud-

Just thinking of you, and hoping and praying for you and your wonderful family. Keep up the hard work, think of us when you need strength, we are out here pulling for you everyday. Saw the quote below and thought of you.

“Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.” Mahatma Gandhi

All of our love

The Wren Family

Reply
LaNetta March 2, 2012
10/9/2015 03:44:53 pm

Hi TJ,
I saw your mom a couple weeks ago and was looking for you later to check in and say hi, but I was too late. Terry told me you’re doing great, and you’re almost finished!! Your courage, strength, and positive attitude is such an inspiration–keep up the good work! I am so happy for you and Amanda, and you have so many wonderful things to look forward to–I’m keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. Keep fighting the good fight!
Take care,
LaNetta

Reply
Joe Roller March 5, 2012
10/9/2015 03:45:19 pm

Hi Teej,

Hope as you are starting week two that you are beginning to feel better and getting some strength back. Thinking about you and wishing you well.

Best

Joe

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    TJ Baudanza
    ​A 28 year old, fighting to kick Stage 4 Colon Cancer's Ass.

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