One stretch at a time
In support of
The Castillo Family
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The Castillo Family
I had eleven appointments in one day last week — a new record. My mom and I walked into the hospital at 7:45 in the morning and didn’t leave until nearly 4:00 in the afternoon. By the end of it, she was practically dragging me lol. It was one of those days that wears you down in every way — physically, mentally, and emotionally. So much waiting, so much information, so many conversations. Even though there wasn’t a ton of “new” news, it still felt heavy.
But even in the long day, there were gifts.
I was able to get my last drain removed — such a huge blessing! It may seem small, but it felt like a tangible step forward, a physical reminder that healing is happening.
I also had my post-op physical therapy evaluation and was cleared to begin gentle arm stretching to slowly regain range of motion. That alone feels like progress. Radiation will depend on my ability to raise and hold my arms above my head, so every stretch now carries purpose. There’s something powerful about working toward that goal — even when it’s uncomfortable — knowing it’s part of the path ahead.
I have my radiation “simulation” and teaching appointment tomorrow. Even typing that makes this next step feel more real. We will also be shutting down my ovaries and forcing me into menopause overnight. There’s a weight to walking into this next phase, but I’m trying to hold it with open hands. I keep reminding myself that God is already in tomorrow. He is not surprised by any of this. He goes before me, sits with me in the waiting rooms, and steadies me when my mind wants to spiral.
I also met with my naturopathic doctor, and we discussed supplements that may support my body through radiation. I’m grateful for a team that looks at the whole picture — not just treating cancer, but caring for me. The day was information-heavy, and by the time we left, my brain felt as tired as my body.
My white blood cell counts have been low this past week, which explains why I’ve felt especially weak and low energy. It’s humbling to feel how limited my body can be right now. I want to do more than I can. I want strength back overnight. But I’m learning — slowly — that this season is teaching me dependence. When my body is weak, I’m reminded that His strength is sufficient. When I don’t have energy for tomorrow, I’m invited to just receive grace for today.
Honestly, the highlight of that very long day had nothing to do with test results or treatment plans. In between appointments, we found a tiny pocket of time — ten minutes at most — and I convinced (okay, slightly twisted) my mom’s arm to do a small Valentine’s craft with me at the hospital activity center. It was a simple little painting with qtips, nothing fancy, and we were rushing the whole time, laughing about how ridiculous it was to be crafting in the middle of a marathon hospital day. But in those ten minutes, the heaviness lifted. We weren’t patient and caregiver. We were just us painting and giggling. It felt like such a sweet, ordinary gift tucked into an otherwise exhausting day — a reminder that joy can still be found in the smallest, most unexpected places if we’re willing to pause and grab it.
There are a lot of moments where I wish this road were shorter, easier, clearer. But there are also moments — even in hospital hallways — where I feel deeply carried. The prayers, the support, the quiet reassurance that I am not alone. And that changes everything.
One appointment at a time. One stretch at a time. One day at a time.
He is with me through all of it.
Elly
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