The very tiny 8 week old puppy already owns the sidewalk. My friend proudly “walks” this little piece of heaven. He is so wiggly-giggly and excited and I jump from the car to welcome him to the neighborhood. Later in the day, there is a gathering of senior dogs, “parents” and puppies by the pond, organically sprung to celebrate the new addition. It’s as if the entire complex has adopted this precious pup.
On a different but same (?!) topic, I watch a little of the Indiana Bowl game. The sheer joy and excitement the young fresh-faced college players exhibit brings a smile to us all (except Oregon fans). No spiking, in- your -face stances, hubris- just giggling with each other over sheer surprise and luck (and skill).
As we open each day of this new year, many will be facing challenges- even cancer. Some are already in the mix of it. You may not think there is much to giggle about (tsk ending w preposition) The moment usually comes unexpectedly.
Jessie brings “Garfield”, the big white furry Clumber Spaniel into the waiting room- all hands reach for the gentle loving creature- smiles break out and cancer is forgotten. Alice leaves her 4 year old grandson as she heads to the radiation unit, Marlene, another patient, is found sitting on the floor reading to him and they bond quickly.
As the future unfolds, we all need to stop and appreciate. There is enough to trouble us, so let’s get out of our own way. The healing Oxytocin hormone boost comes, not with chemo, radiation, bloodwork or scans. It comes and is available daily for the taking when we are aware. Once again, I encourage us all to be part of our own cure. The mind-body connection is fierce. Opportunities exist daily to heal.
My own decision today is to try pickelball. Pull on the knee braces, pretend to have hand-eye coordination and for sure laugh with friends. Ridiculousness is always available. While cancer and challenges nip at our heels, let’s commit to kicking up those heels and finding even a moment to giggle today. Your mind, heart and body will thank you.
Note: Movement is medicine. Out this week, In first of its kind study (“Structured exercise after adjuvant chemo for colon cancer”, Courneys et al, NEJM 2025) Follow up of almost 900 patients on trial, revealed structured exercise program (120-150 min per week- about 3-4 brisk walks) soon after chemo had significantly longer disease free survival and longer overall survival. 37% lower risk of death from any cause after 8 years. Lower inflammation, regulate hormones, boost immunity, slow tumor growth). Let’s lace up!