21 October 2011

ROUND THREE

I've returned for my third trip to the Herzog clinic, another 10-day stay. It's been lovely to re-meet some of the people I'd met before, as well as some new faces, and once again I've had some interesting and stimulating conversations. However I've also been happy to spend time on my own - reading, listening to music, writing in my journal, walking - and I've been a bit more contemplative this time than on previous visits. In London I always feel busy and pressured for time, especially since the summer when I've only had 3 weeks in between clinic visits, with lots to fit into those weeks, so it's been quite precious to be able to slow down a bit. The surroundings here are very peaceful and therapeutic, especially in the beautiful autumn weather we've had. In particular, there's lots of water, including fountains, ponds and a large installation of mineral waters flowing down over brushwood, giving off salt-laden air to inhale. I'm not sure exactly what health benefits it's supposed to yield, but it's certainly a very soothing and relaxing place. 








I had another chemoembolisation in the middle of the trip. As usual, there was a great deal of waiting around over a long and tiring day, but I was pleased to find that I was able to let go of my habitual impatience and simply accept that it would take as long as it took. Physically I found it easier to tolerate than the previous times, and I think that being in a calmer state of mind helped me to be less bothered by the discomfort and unpleasantness of the procedure. I recovered my energy very quickly the following day, no doubt helped by being given steroids, but the downside of that is hot flushes and difficulty sleeping - fortunately wearing off after a couple of days. Like last time, I'm pleased to say that there seems to have been a small improvement in the tumours, so the plan is to return for the next procedure in the second half of November. 


This time I was an out-patient for the whole visit, staying at a (different) guesthouse towards the other side of the village. I enjoyed having somewhere a bit more homely to come back to in the evenings, though the walk there and back was already getting quite bracing - definitely a touch of winter on the way!


My guesthouse

Frost in the early morning










Autumnal tree at sunrise

2 comments:

  1. Anonymous21/10/11

    It´s a privilege to be here in the Clinic with you, Sylvia, your photos are beautiful and your description of life here is exactly how I am experiencing it too. I was delighted to find that you were here on my second visit as well as on my first and it´s fun looking back at our time at the High School, albeit under different headmistresses! You are an inspiration in the way you are dealing with your condition and many people here are enjoying your company. The cycle ride was fun but hard-going at times and I envied you your energy that day!
    With love and good wishes for the journey ahead, Hilary x

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  2. Linda Scotford26/10/11

    Beautiful photos Sylvia and glad to hear your 3rd visit went well. Sounds like I shall need some warm clothes for the walk from guesthouse! See you in November, take care Linda x

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