Today we entered the 8th day of reirradiation. I no longer profess to evaluate whether or not it has started to work as last Thursday I thought that her walking looked better but then on Friday I was hit with a tonne of bricks. Pippa wakes in the morning, smiles and looks at me with her big, beautiful eyes……that is enough. That in itself means we have another day and another day means time for the treatment to work.
We have a lovely, tranquil and peaceful apartment in which to spend each day; perfect for just existing. I’m sure it’s the relaxing view both day and night that has contributed to me finally heeding Pippa’s oncologist’s advice of, “try not to worry about things that are out of your control.” For the past 17 months it’s been easier said than done but right now I know I am doing precisely everything I can and if I didn’t try this I would regret it forever. The hardest thing is that Pippa had to get to the very edge to let the treatment try and work. Right now, there is simply nothing more I can do.
Pippa rests, sleeps, does drawings and plays games. Monopoly though, has been sent home because no one else ever wins! Instead, we have kept Tony’s beloved vintage (we’d better not call it antique) Chinese Checkers Board and of course we still have all of our favourite “Julie” games including Greed and Rat-a-tat-Cat. Sunday we went for a “roll” in the sunshine along the waterfront market – it was lovely but tiring. The warm weekend also saw Pippa have a brief swim in the pool helping exercise her leg muscles affected by both the tumour and the steroids. On Monday I was wondering how on earth I was going to wash Pippa’s hair – balancing slippery shampoo, conditioner and Pippa all at once was going to be challenging. My solution saw us stop off at the hairdressing college on the way home from Peter Mac. She was well and truly ready for a sleep when we got home but it was certainly the perfect answer!
We are just keeping everything very low key; going along day by day. Actually, as Pippa corrected me yesterday, “this is how we go mum – seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks and then months.” Of course she is correct. Last night she had hours of belly pain from her steroids. Once we fixed that she had hours of sleep, today she’s had minutes of radiation therapy, minutes of fun playing games waiting and then hours of sleep again. Minute by minute, day by day; all to get more precious time for one precious girl.
Pippa Rea 
love and hugs for every single second, minute, hour, day, weeks and then months xox
So much love and hugs every single minute, every single day from us 3, S,T & L xxx
Darling Virg, loved seeing all those pics – especially the ones with that little smooch and cuddle between Pip and Yarra. So pleased that Yarra could spread her little brand of love to make Pip happy for even a moment. ANY time Pip wants cuddles you know who to call…. We love you and ALL of us have our arms around you in support, all the time, not just Yarra. x
Time, hope, love, belief and family – all great things that give us strength. Keep strong and keep believing. Love to you all. Minute by minute, day by day is a great motto to live by xxxxxx
Continuing with prayers for Pippa and for all of you. I really hope this round of radiation helps Pippa and shrinks that tumor. Sending love and hugs and always having hope xxx
I think I remember that checkers board!! Pleased to see Tony hasn’t lost his marbles… Glad I’m not playing Pippa at Monopoly! I hate it. Remember nothing but fights playing with Claire! Lots of love coming your way….
Sweet beautiful simplicity – all we all really need.
Pippa, I hope Tony doesn’t cheat,got to watch us oldies.love to the whole family
Holding you all in my thoughts and sending positive vibes your way. Keep smiling and singing Pippa.
A beautiful post Virginia! Great photos. You are all always in our thoughts and hearts. Joy and family xx
Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with your gorgeous family. Keep smiling precious Pippa.
How precious is a single minute Gin! My love and positive energy to you all darling girl.xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx