Here, There, and Everywhere

When I was a young girl I loved the lyrics and music to "Here, There, and Everywhere," a song written and performed by Paul McCartney for his then love, Jane Asher. I used to think it must be great to have such a loving and lovely tribute, for the world to hear.

History will show that though Jane Asher received such a lovely gift of song, she did not ultimately become Paul McCartney's wife. Linda Eastman became his life partner, a part of Beatles history.

Linda Eastman McCartney was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1995 and succumbed to the disease after it spread to her liver in 1998. 

I give that little bit of Beatles history because the other morning, while getting ready for work, I was brushing my hair, and I noticed strands of it flying here, there, and everywhere. The song came to mind.

My mind works that way. I think of humorous ironies constantly, and given my situation, I'm glad my brain is wired that way. I learned long ago to laugh at life's inconveniences. Life works better that way ... if we flow.

I am almost to my second chemo infusion, No. 2, in this last phase of treatment. I am grateful beyond words that I have no nausea. I do have very frizzy and thinning hair, some heartburn now and then, fatigue (let's try to make it to 7pm tonight!), chemo brain, and some minor ostomy issues, but overall, I've been spared the major debilitating symptoms of chemotherapy.

Someone said to me that I must be doing so well because of my good attitude. I thought about that after it was said because I would never want anyone reading this blog to think that a good attitude spares one physical issues. I think it helps, but genetics have a lot to do with it. Before I was diagnosed with cancer, I was always ridiculously healthy. 'Strong like Bull' - that was me.

Even though I've gone through this illness with pretty relative ease in comparison to others, I know that it is my 'Strong like Bull' genetic makeup that has really helped me to tread the waters of side effects. I have been incredibly fortunate. Good attitude helps, yes, but it is not the cure. If you read this, and you are sick from chemo, even if you have the best attitude, know that you are in good company, and do not judge yourself. Good attitude helps you walk through it, but it does not spare you side effects. Some people get really sick on chemo and others do not. I'm one of the lucky ones where that is concerned.

I have not been writing a lot lately. Instead, I've been resting a lot as I am tired by the time I arrive home from work. I will try to continue to give regular updates because I am so fortunate to have so many who care to know how I am doing.

Speaking of which, Paul McCartney wrote a song for Linda McCartney, too, "Maybe I'm Amazed," and in many ways that song is even better and fitting for this post. It's the way I feel about my friends.

Enjoy a tribute to you, a lovely and loving tribute, for the world to hear.