Great movie. Remember the scene of Russian Roulette? That is how I feel with each MRI. I know - a little melodramatic. But a small glimpse to where my mind goes everytime I am put into that teeny tiny tube for an hour and told to hold my breath for 5 minutes at a time while the machine makes insanely loud noises that rattle my brain. Ok a little hyperbole.

Anyway the purpose of the MRI is to take images of my lungs and liver to see if the trigger has been pulled so to speak. But if you recall the scene from Deer Hunter - they turned the pistol on the bad guys. I like to think the loud noises eminating from the macine are warships attacking the Evil M - aka Uveal Melanoma. But I also like to think everytime my blood is drawn that only the blood with the cancer is coming out. No luck so far at least that I am aware of but the thought process helps.

At least from my perspective I am glad to report that my MRI, CT Scan and bloodwork this past June 22 showed no signs of growth or spreading of the disease. So grateful. Perhaps I am playing with a very large capacity magazine. My Dad used to say - I am just waiting for the other shoe to drop - which is perhaps a nicer way to think of it. Still not sure where that saying comes from.

I do always try to find my moment(s) of joy with each trip to SF for my treatment whether it is food, family, a good interaction with hospital staff or simply an hour of quiet to read my book while getting my infusion. I am blessed with being able to stay with our kids when I need an overnight in SF. No offense to them but more importantly I get to see our grandson who brings joy in spades. I have also been blessed with great care from my medical team including my “cancer concierge”, Alya.

Me and Alya. Could not do it without her.

And of course food. I always try to have a good meal when in the City. Nothing fancy mind you. After completing my MRI - I noticed Tommy’s Joynt across the street. Opened in 1947 it is known for having the largest selection of imported beers anywhere. It is an old school hof brau. I opted for the hand carved pastrami sandwich on rye. Delicious. The macaroni salad was respectable. But the ambiance and the people were the treat. Mostly working class and a few long time SF people based on appearance. A few of the chairs had torn vinyl and my plate was chipped but would not change a thing.

Pastrami and Swiss on Rye. And a glimpse of their ambiance.

Always find your joy no matter how small or fleeting. It can make your day.

Stay Strong, Be Kind, Be Humble and God Bless!