The Waiting

by Chris Burton

Most of life is waiting anyway right?

Scripture tells us to “Wait on the Lord and be of good courage,” (Psalm 27:14). It makes sense to couple patience with courage because waiting can really weather you. One of the things about illness that I actually appreciate is that it eliminates the façade of control. Things aren’t completely out of your hands, just mostly.

I have found myself answering “How are you?” with “I’m okay,” a lot more than is probably polite. This recovery is like a dance, two steps forward and then one step back.

I had my second round of Benlysta last week. Next week is my last round before we move to monthly doses. The treatment hasn’t worn me out as much as I anticipated. The first infusion had me in the bathroom all weekend, the second just made me sleep a lot.

My coumadin appointments are getting spaced out also. Initially, I had to see the doctor every week as we figured out the right dose of warfarin. This was tricky because other medicines were being reduced or introduced so the INR number (how they measure your blood’s ability to clot) would be all over the place. Since it has been the same for three appointments in a row, they are able to put a little space in between my appointments.

Next week I meet with my Cardiologist and GI doctor. Rheumatologist told me I’m healthy enough to cut my hair so I think I might finally shave haha.