Chemo Daze

Leave It To Beaver Reruns

Stephanie Ortiz
Dad failed miserably taking the picture of me so Alexandra had to step in and take the photo for him.

Before I can say: chemo, been there, done that–not so fast, there’s the matter of healing.

Things are on rewind, if not slow motion, in that department. Chemo hit me so hard; I didn’t even know what a blow it was. Here it’s three weeks from my last treatment, and I’m still not my old self. (Or maybe I’m more of my old self than I realized).

Whatever the case, it finally dawned on me–I’m not going to bounce back so quickly. This thing is going to take time.

And since we’re taking things slow around here, I can’t help but step back into the good old days.

Alex and the girls have been great, but there’s nothing like when I was young and sick and got to stay home from school with Mom.

She’d be in the other room while I watched Leave It To Beaver reruns along with all the other black and white TV shows (is there a politically correct way to say this?) programmed for daytime TV. When the midday news came on, it was time for a nap. Periodically she’d come to check on me to see if I needed anything.

Of course, we had colorized TV shows; we weren’t living in the dark ages, only they came on at night (and who was ever sick at night?)

Dad wouldn’t be home. I don’t recall Dad ever having a sick day, and he was never home for one of mine.

But chemo threw me into the mindset of a young girl again who needed that sick day with her Mom and Dad. So when Mom and Dad arranged for us to visit them, it was a dream come true to get 12 glorious days with them in Florida.

We traded snow for sand–and this view.

There was nothing like Dad bringing home four bouquets of roses–one for each of us girls, patting my head (the fuzz feels better than a peach), and checking in with me every time he walked in the room to see if I needed anything.

Or sitting down and having a heart to heart with Mom, who just needed to reach out and touch and hug me, having her cook all the meals while I sat and watched (no-not Leave it to Beaver) something on TV, and having her run to the store to make sure that I had more than I possibly could need.

Love you Mom!

I got to go back in time and have that Leave It To Beaver moment just when I needed it the most.

There’s something to be said about recreating those black and white TV shows: those sick days when life could slow down to a snail’s pace so we could heal whatever ailed us.

It was hard to say good-bye to my Leave It To Beaver moment. The color TV shows will come soon enough.

A priceless moment with Mom and Dad!

26 thoughts on “Leave It To Beaver Reruns”

  1. I am SO happy you got to be with your parents! So happy! I am sure that they needed it as much as you needed it. Love seeing and reading your post. Please let me know if we can help you!

    1. Thanks so much dear Betsy! You’ve been such a tremendous support through chemo. Not sure when phase two will start, but will let you know. Sending love and hugs💕

  4. Nothing like mom and dad to take care of you when you need it most. So glad you all had this special time to just be together, slow down and get TLC! Xo

  5. Hi Stephanie.

    So happy for you and, actually, so jealous. The kind of love you get as a child is a unique experience, you don’t have to worry about anything and all your needs are taken care of. Once you become a mom and wife. Even if your husband is perfect, you are always in caring mode’ Enjoy your time in Florida. It will help youheal your body and replenish your heart
    Take care.

    Sending love and prayers.

    Claudia

  7. Everyone looks fabulous. You have been through a lot Steph. Take it easy and enjoy your time with your mom and dad.

  9. Enjoy your time with your family in Florida. You are a special woman who is surrounded by love of family and friends.

  10. I’m so happy you were able to go to the warm climate and warm your bones. There’s nothing like a bit of sunshine to help. Then, to be able to visit with your parents and have their TLC is THE BEST!!! So glad you were able to get there and sending healing prayers your way!!!

  11. Stephanie, I’m so happy you were able to spend some much needed time with your beautiful parents. I’m sure it meant just as much to them to have you there. I am in awe of your strength and pray for you every day. Xoxo

  12. I love all of your posts. This one, though, is my favorite so far. 💕💕

  13. Beautiful Steph…to think you were so close to me in Florida, I could feel you! Time with mom and dad is an ancient remedy that surpasses all! So well deserved, so glad you enjoyed it!! Love you

Comments are closed.