I apologize, I should have posted this a week ago but this has been a crazy week.
This isn't exactly the news we wanted to share but it isn't all bad news either. Mom has started chemo again last Friday. The last CT scan showed that one of the tumors in the right lung has grown just a little, basically enough to register and get some attention. Everything else looks good. So as Dr. B said, "since this one has decided to wake up and grow, its time for us to start fighting again." Last Friday they gave mom a B-12 shot and some meds to prep her for the chemo that started Friday. Alimita, Paraplatin (Carbonplatin), and Avastin are the drugs that she will be taking every 3 weeks. This regimen should not have the side effects that the first round had so we expect that mom will do as well if not better this time around. Since there was growth she is officially off the clinical trial drug of Erbitux. She will miss her group of nurses "upstairs" at the clinic but they have told her they would love to see her anytime she is in the clinic. We are excited about the potential to be aggressive and have the opportunity to shrink ALL the tumors once more. Thankfully the scan showed that they caught things very early and there are no other areas of concern at this time. Dr. B has assured mom this should not interfere with any holiday plans so they can continue with treatments and travel to meet Mr. Max (Erica's son). Mom is dealing with the seasonal "junk" which will make anyone feel yucky but hopefully she will get plenty of rest and get beyond this. We are very optimistic and are trusting firmly in the hand that is leading the doctor's decisions and nurse's treatments on the new path of our journey.
Mom has felt a little weak yesterday and today. She has only enjoyed baked potatoes since her treatment but I can certainly empathize. Being in my 3rd month of pregnancy again she knew she could call me for suggestions of bland food that is easy to keep down when nothing seems to taste good and there isn't much confidence it will stay down. In case you missed that discreet announcement, Haidyn will be a big sister in May 2011. We were a bit surprised once again but the shock has worn off and the excitement has sank in. God continues to bless Mom with 2 fresh doses of love only grandchildren can supply.
As always, thank you again for all the cards, prayers, encouragement and love. We serve an awesome God.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Sunday, October 17, 2010
October 17, 2010
Well, a year ago mom was in the hospital and we didn't know why. What a blessed year we have had. Still in treatment and accepting every day as a blessing Mom continues to smile through every day. She is working every day and feeling stronger and more comfortable with the new normal life for now. Every other Friday she is at treatment for about 3 hours to continue the maintenance.
Planning for the travel trip this year to Phoenix it was fun for so many reasons. For those of you who know mom and Ken, one thing they love to do is travel. The excitement of Erica having the first grandSon is amazing. Erica and baby are doing very well. Thank you so much for all your shared joy and prayers. Needless to say grandchildren have completed my mom's life. Seeing "GiGi" with Haidyn for more than 1/2 a second you know exactly what I am saying. Now that Haidyn shows abundance of personality she is the most fun to interact together with her.
This year has had highs and lows for all of us. Last week we went to University Church of Christ and their preacher spoke about "Surviving the Storm". Prayer has become a staple of our lives in ways I personally never imagined. God has taught us patience, trust and gratitude for all our blessings- good and bad. Getting through the storm of a year , almost to the date, can be attributed to prayer. So many people have come up to Mom and hugged her and continued to remind her of their daily prayer for her- that is powerful! Thank you!!
I can't thank you all enough for your prayers, encouragement, gifts, cards and love. As we face the anniversary of mom's diagnosis I never would have imagined the blessings the last year have brought our family and Ken and mom. We are all looking forward to a another year of blessed memories. I will keep you all updated as mom continues to enjoy being a "GiGi".
Planning for the travel trip this year to Phoenix it was fun for so many reasons. For those of you who know mom and Ken, one thing they love to do is travel. The excitement of Erica having the first grandSon is amazing. Erica and baby are doing very well. Thank you so much for all your shared joy and prayers. Needless to say grandchildren have completed my mom's life. Seeing "GiGi" with Haidyn for more than 1/2 a second you know exactly what I am saying. Now that Haidyn shows abundance of personality she is the most fun to interact together with her.
This year has had highs and lows for all of us. Last week we went to University Church of Christ and their preacher spoke about "Surviving the Storm". Prayer has become a staple of our lives in ways I personally never imagined. God has taught us patience, trust and gratitude for all our blessings- good and bad. Getting through the storm of a year , almost to the date, can be attributed to prayer. So many people have come up to Mom and hugged her and continued to remind her of their daily prayer for her- that is powerful! Thank you!!
I can't thank you all enough for your prayers, encouragement, gifts, cards and love. As we face the anniversary of mom's diagnosis I never would have imagined the blessings the last year have brought our family and Ken and mom. We are all looking forward to a another year of blessed memories. I will keep you all updated as mom continues to enjoy being a "GiGi".
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
September 15, 2010
It's been a busy time for all of us and Mom's doing great. She and Ken enjoyed a very relaxing "mini vacation" with our friends Phil and Sherry Hart at their lake house at Heber Springs for the Labor Day week-end. It was very well timed since Mom said she was feeling last week was a little overwhelming with doctor appts everyday and a treatment Friday. Since her ER visit on 7-25, things have been a little crazy - but we're getting our heads around it now and feeling more comfortable with having another doctor on our team. It started with the pain in Mom's back (lower left side) that wouldn't subside until after the wonderful Dilaudid injection. We still don't know what caused her pain, because the problems we know about affect the right side of Mom's back. However, the follow-up got Dr. Jason Weaver at Semmes Murphey Clinic (Orthopedic and Neuorology Clinic) involved in reviewing all the CT scans and MRIs. He was most concerned with an area on the spine that we hadn't known about. After reviewing everything Dr. Blakely, Mom's Oncologist (quarterback), said this is nothing new - it was in the first scans, and like everything else it responded extremely well to the chemo treatments. Our concern was (and always is) that we want nothing new - nothing growing. Dr. Weaver is looking at everything with eyes focusing on the bone disease. That's the "tricky" part, because it's difficult to measure. The radiologist's report shows specific measurements of size of the lung tumors -- we like "measurable results" -- bone disease shows "irregularity". The most recent report from Dr. Weaver says he concurs the bony areas that showed lesions (cancer) now show new bone growing - (THANK YOU, GOD!). In fact, he says it's pretty amazing the dramatic difference in the first images and the current ones. We will keep Dr. Weaver in the loop to review images as they are ordered in the Clinical Trial Mom is participating in. We try to stay focused on all the positives on this journey: 1) We know we have a Great Physician and our family has been lifted up daily since Day 1 to Him for healing and peace, 2) We have a phenomenal team of doctors and staff keeping a close watch on all areas of concern in mom's condition, 3) We are very happy to see Mom regaining strength and continuing to fight, 4) All reports are showing "stable", no growth.
Mom sent a text message last week saying she really feels badly for Haidyn having an on-going problem with ear infections because she's been having problems. Dr. Blakely referred her to an ENT about 6 wks ago. He is consulting with Dr. Blakely about a possibility of a connection between the cancer treatment drugs and problems last this week was to have her check up for her eyes, for fear her vision may have been affected by the disease and drugs she's been on. The last prescription glasses were 2005. She had a check up in August 2008, and was told her close-up vision could be improved with a little stronger prescription but she decided to wait a little on upgrading her glasses. We're happy to learn that there has been no change in her vision in the past two years!
We appreciate everyone that is following us on this journey. We want you to know that no report most likely means that we are doing well and getting on with our lives, staying busy, and making plans for the future with Mom. We all have our tickets to go visit Erica and Micheal in Phoenix and meet their new son in late December. We're hoping he will cooperate and arrive by his expected birth date of December 14. After bringing home our own a little more than a year ago (tear), we know the special bond that develops in the first few days home as mom and dad, family. Then we will all be able to celebrate baby's first Christmas together soon there after. As you are praying for our family, please remember Erica and baby that her pregnancy will be uneventful, and that he will be full-term and healthy. So far everything has gone extremely well for both of them. She has posted some beautiful pictures of her with a mom's glow. I will see if she will grant me a family picture of them to post.
We celebrated Haidyn's first birthday on the 29th. She has an unbelievable happy birthday. I will post some pictures that Ken took from the party. It was wonderful to have friends and close families with their children who have filled our world in the past 12 months with prayer and support. Words can never express the gift Ken gave of such an entertaining portfolio of precious moments of Haidyn's first birthday.
I came across a scripture tonight that I felt spoke to me. "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer" Romans 12:12. The past 11 months bring new meaning to that scripture like never before. Thank you for all your encouragement, participation, tears and prayers as we have fought and will continue for mom's health and support of her wonderful God-led hands.
Mom sent a text message last week saying she really feels badly for Haidyn having an on-going problem with ear infections because she's been having problems. Dr. Blakely referred her to an ENT about 6 wks ago. He is consulting with Dr. Blakely about a possibility of a connection between the cancer treatment drugs and problems last this week was to have her check up for her eyes, for fear her vision may have been affected by the disease and drugs she's been on. The last prescription glasses were 2005. She had a check up in August 2008, and was told her close-up vision could be improved with a little stronger prescription but she decided to wait a little on upgrading her glasses. We're happy to learn that there has been no change in her vision in the past two years!
We appreciate everyone that is following us on this journey. We want you to know that no report most likely means that we are doing well and getting on with our lives, staying busy, and making plans for the future with Mom. We all have our tickets to go visit Erica and Micheal in Phoenix and meet their new son in late December. We're hoping he will cooperate and arrive by his expected birth date of December 14. After bringing home our own a little more than a year ago (tear), we know the special bond that develops in the first few days home as mom and dad, family. Then we will all be able to celebrate baby's first Christmas together soon there after. As you are praying for our family, please remember Erica and baby that her pregnancy will be uneventful, and that he will be full-term and healthy. So far everything has gone extremely well for both of them. She has posted some beautiful pictures of her with a mom's glow. I will see if she will grant me a family picture of them to post.
We celebrated Haidyn's first birthday on the 29th. She has an unbelievable happy birthday. I will post some pictures that Ken took from the party. It was wonderful to have friends and close families with their children who have filled our world in the past 12 months with prayer and support. Words can never express the gift Ken gave of such an entertaining portfolio of precious moments of Haidyn's first birthday.
I came across a scripture tonight that I felt spoke to me. "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer" Romans 12:12. The past 11 months bring new meaning to that scripture like never before. Thank you for all your encouragement, participation, tears and prayers as we have fought and will continue for mom's health and support of her wonderful God-led hands.
Monday, August 2, 2010
August 2nd, 2010
Mom's battle continues . . . she had her first visit to the ER last week (Sunday, 7-25) with a pain in her lower back, left side. After a shot of Dilaudid in her port, we were grateful that the pain left immediately. A CT scan was done, the ER dr. thought he saw a possible bulging disc and asked that a follow up be done with Dr. B the next day. Dr. B ordered an MRI that was done Thursday at the West Clinic. Mom had no pain. She had her maintenance treatment on Friday. The research nurse said the preliminary report on the MRI said "no bulging disc evident". Mom tried to talk her into cancelling the follow-up at the Semmes Murphey Spine and Neurology Clinic. Dr. B felt it best to see a specialist, Dr. Jason Weaver, and make sure nothing was missed in the diagnosis. Mom took a CD of all the tests and reports today to that appointment which lasted about 2 hours. After reviewing everything from day of diagnosis to most recent CT scan and MRI, the specialist ordered more tests of views from a different angle which will be done in 2 weeks at Semmes Murphey Clinic. The prayer is for nothing new to show up. We know how BIG God is and we continue to be amazed at all the prayer warriors that are continuing to lift us up.
Mom and Ken had dinner with a good friends from church last night. One of the men, Paul Phillips, works with ACORN, Accelerated Community Oncology Research Network. Mom was expressing sympathy for a mutual friend who is experiencing several very unpleasant side effects from her recent chemo treatments. Paul asked Mom, "Do you realize how unusual it is for you to have NOT experienced these side effects?" He works with the numbers showing reports from patients participating in Clinical Trials. Mom responded saying to him: "YES! You see numbers and percentages -- I've been at the Clinic almost on a weekly basis for 10 months, and I SEE the patients, and HEAR their stories of pain, suffering, hospital visits, inability to take care of themselves, etc. I want to fall on my knees immediately and thank God that the only limitation I experience is tireness." It's a daily reminder to our family how merciful God has been in the face of such a shock in the diagnosis: Stage 4 Lung Cancer - so scary, but we are definitely fighting the battle courageously, and feeling God is blessing us abundantly in the way we feel our faith is growing.
Also, we are starting to seriously look at the calendar for dates and tickets out to Phoenix to meet Erica and Michael's new addition. We are very excited about meeting the little fellow but I will leave the official announcement to Erica with the name they have selected.
Haidyn went to see GiGi and Grandaddy tonight for an hour or so. She has been spending most days in the bigger nursery at school so she is extra tired at the end of every day. Thankfully she was a "joy" as mom described her. She displayed her walking talents. Grandaddy hadn't seen this yet so he was especially anxious to see her skills. When we came to pick her up, for whatever reason she decided she wanted to walk back and forth the floor between us all. It was difficult to keep Mom and Ken's attention in conversation because neither wanted to miss a single step. It has been fun for me to see their excitement weekly since she honestly learns something new every week at this age. It is certainly good therapy for us all to see her beaming, slightly toothy grin under that honey brown hair with those big browns. We are all in anxious anticipation to see what that little face with all those expressions will have to say soon.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for faithfully keeping healing for mom at the top of your prayer lists. We know that he gives and takes away. This has been a humbling season in all our lives and we are marveled at the wisdom of our God. He is good!
Mom and Ken had dinner with a good friends from church last night. One of the men, Paul Phillips, works with ACORN, Accelerated Community Oncology Research Network. Mom was expressing sympathy for a mutual friend who is experiencing several very unpleasant side effects from her recent chemo treatments. Paul asked Mom, "Do you realize how unusual it is for you to have NOT experienced these side effects?" He works with the numbers showing reports from patients participating in Clinical Trials. Mom responded saying to him: "YES! You see numbers and percentages -- I've been at the Clinic almost on a weekly basis for 10 months, and I SEE the patients, and HEAR their stories of pain, suffering, hospital visits, inability to take care of themselves, etc. I want to fall on my knees immediately and thank God that the only limitation I experience is tireness." It's a daily reminder to our family how merciful God has been in the face of such a shock in the diagnosis: Stage 4 Lung Cancer - so scary, but we are definitely fighting the battle courageously, and feeling God is blessing us abundantly in the way we feel our faith is growing.
Also, we are starting to seriously look at the calendar for dates and tickets out to Phoenix to meet Erica and Michael's new addition. We are very excited about meeting the little fellow but I will leave the official announcement to Erica with the name they have selected.
Haidyn went to see GiGi and Grandaddy tonight for an hour or so. She has been spending most days in the bigger nursery at school so she is extra tired at the end of every day. Thankfully she was a "joy" as mom described her. She displayed her walking talents. Grandaddy hadn't seen this yet so he was especially anxious to see her skills. When we came to pick her up, for whatever reason she decided she wanted to walk back and forth the floor between us all. It was difficult to keep Mom and Ken's attention in conversation because neither wanted to miss a single step. It has been fun for me to see their excitement weekly since she honestly learns something new every week at this age. It is certainly good therapy for us all to see her beaming, slightly toothy grin under that honey brown hair with those big browns. We are all in anxious anticipation to see what that little face with all those expressions will have to say soon.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for faithfully keeping healing for mom at the top of your prayer lists. We know that he gives and takes away. This has been a humbling season in all our lives and we are marveled at the wisdom of our God. He is good!
Sunday, July 25, 2010
July 25, 2010
Life has been going so fast for us all but I need to catch everyone up. So 2 weeks ago mom had her follow up on the 8 week scan. The tumors seem to have reduced about 5% more than the scan 8 weeks before. We are still in shock!
Mom is going to work everyday. They have updated their kitchen with new countertops which has been very exciting. Mom found out from Erica that her first grandson will be here in Decemeber. I know she's especially excited its a boy so she can continue to baby shop but now for boys.
Ken has been out of town so mom was alone except for when Ms. Haidyn came over to play and shop GiGi her steps, yes that does mean our baby girl is walking some but not much yet.
Please continue to keep mom in your prayers. She is continuing to heal and improve daily. We are near the 50% mark for total reduction which is unbelievable! Praise God!
Mom is going to work everyday. They have updated their kitchen with new countertops which has been very exciting. Mom found out from Erica that her first grandson will be here in Decemeber. I know she's especially excited its a boy so she can continue to baby shop but now for boys.
Ken has been out of town so mom was alone except for when Ms. Haidyn came over to play and shop GiGi her steps, yes that does mean our baby girl is walking some but not much yet.
Please continue to keep mom in your prayers. She is continuing to heal and improve daily. We are near the 50% mark for total reduction which is unbelievable! Praise God!
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
June 30, 2010
After mom's snorkeling adventure she was sure to have Ken pour peroxide in her ears. She has been feeling for some time that something was not quiet right, especially with the right ear, for some time. They were under the assumption that it was seasonal but mom knew when the peroxide just kept popping in her ear, it was time to get this looked at. Dr. B did send mom to a ENT for a visit and gave her an antibiotic prior to the trip as a precaution. They determined there was an infection later, thought there could be a hole in the eardrum and scheduled her for a follow up today.
Today was a new experience of a different kind for Mom. What was supposed to be a simple follow up office visit turned into a little more. The doctor did an incision in her eardrum and drained the fluid and build-up from her Eustachian tube. The doctor told Mom she was a "real trooper" because that was a painful procedure. We're very happy that is over and hopefully Mom will heal quickly and the problem is fixed.
One of Mom's greatest adventures is shopping the second-hand stores for Haidyn. Haidyn has had some kind of a outfit, bib, "costume" or something for every holiday. Notice the new picture attached of our "Star Spangled Baby", and it was reported that a good time was had by all for the photo shoot.
Thank you all so much for your continued prayers. Erica and baby are doing wonderful and are the topic of conversation about every day. Tonight we took a vote between Ken, Mom, Todd and me on the sex which we will not find out for a few more weeks. Todd and GiGi have decided to go pink. Grandaddy and I are going blue. I know mom will be thrilled either way but if its not a boy part of her will be disappointed since she has already bought about EVERYTHING THERE IS for a girl- LOL! I wish Erica would give us a picture but she hasn't even skyped with me lately so I can't report any seen evidence and she sounds awesome almost everytime I talk to her.
God is so good. Haidyn is growing and thrilling mom with her excited brown eyes and wide smile with sweet squeals everytime she sees her now. Erica's pregnancy is keeping us all anxious about the arrival date. Mom's hair is growing back in quiet well. Vacation for mom and Ken was restful and relaxing and life has found a new normal. Without your prayers none of this would have been possible. You all remain in our prayers daily as we thank God for prayer warriors who continue to lift mom us as she battles Cancer and maximizes every day and every moment. I hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday. Haidyn is sure ready with her holiday "costumes"- haha
Today was a new experience of a different kind for Mom. What was supposed to be a simple follow up office visit turned into a little more. The doctor did an incision in her eardrum and drained the fluid and build-up from her Eustachian tube. The doctor told Mom she was a "real trooper" because that was a painful procedure. We're very happy that is over and hopefully Mom will heal quickly and the problem is fixed.
One of Mom's greatest adventures is shopping the second-hand stores for Haidyn. Haidyn has had some kind of a outfit, bib, "costume" or something for every holiday. Notice the new picture attached of our "Star Spangled Baby", and it was reported that a good time was had by all for the photo shoot.
Thank you all so much for your continued prayers. Erica and baby are doing wonderful and are the topic of conversation about every day. Tonight we took a vote between Ken, Mom, Todd and me on the sex which we will not find out for a few more weeks. Todd and GiGi have decided to go pink. Grandaddy and I are going blue. I know mom will be thrilled either way but if its not a boy part of her will be disappointed since she has already bought about EVERYTHING THERE IS for a girl- LOL! I wish Erica would give us a picture but she hasn't even skyped with me lately so I can't report any seen evidence and she sounds awesome almost everytime I talk to her.
God is so good. Haidyn is growing and thrilling mom with her excited brown eyes and wide smile with sweet squeals everytime she sees her now. Erica's pregnancy is keeping us all anxious about the arrival date. Mom's hair is growing back in quiet well. Vacation for mom and Ken was restful and relaxing and life has found a new normal. Without your prayers none of this would have been possible. You all remain in our prayers daily as we thank God for prayer warriors who continue to lift mom us as she battles Cancer and maximizes every day and every moment. I hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday. Haidyn is sure ready with her holiday "costumes"- haha
Sunday, June 20, 2010
June 20, 2010
First Happy Father's Day to all. We celebrated Father's Day at home pretty quietly today since Haidyn has had a cold all week and I started my day at the minor med to get some antibiotics for myself. Thankfully nothing serious and hopefully everyone will be well soon.
Mom and Ken got home last night. They had a wonderful trip. I've talked to mom a few times today and every conversation she has shared a few more stories of the trip. I am dying to see the pictures! She did snorkel for the first time. I can't believe I missed it. Some of my best vacation memories are of me and Ken snorkeling while mama sat on the beach reading and waiting for us to come back and hang with her. She did read several books on her vacation. They got VIP treatment from Kent, the resort owner, and had a great week of sand, sun, surf and relaxation.
Mom said they were so close to the equator that it stayed so hot. Normally, even on the beach, at night sometimes with the breezes it will be a little cool but apparently not so in Roatan. This place really sounds like a paradise. Maybe I can hack their MAC and post a few pics for everyone. If not, all you Facebookers be looking for Ken to post soon.
Tomorrow night GiGi and Grandaddy have a date with the diva. Todd and I have an appointment so Haidyn will get their undivided attention. After nearly two weeks without seeing her, I hope the two of them don't get into a fight over her attention:) Mom has a treatment in the morning but she will be home early to rest up before I drop Haidyn off around 6pm. I know Haidyn will be more than happy to show her captive audience all her greatest and latest, including 2 more teeth.
By the way, Erica is doing very well with her pregnancy. She says cheeseburgers and french fries are her baby's favorites. Only 3 more weeks till we find out if its a boy or a girl. I think its a girl:)
Thank you so much for your prayers for our family. Mom and Ken have made it back from their first vacation since October safely. Erica is doing well with her pregnancy. And mom is continuing to improve and adjust to her new normal. We could not feel more loved, supported and blessed as a family to know how many prayers continue to be lifted for us. We're still fighting and praying for cancer free! We know that God has the power to heal but we're so thankful everyday for the improvements thus far. God is good always!
Mom and Ken got home last night. They had a wonderful trip. I've talked to mom a few times today and every conversation she has shared a few more stories of the trip. I am dying to see the pictures! She did snorkel for the first time. I can't believe I missed it. Some of my best vacation memories are of me and Ken snorkeling while mama sat on the beach reading and waiting for us to come back and hang with her. She did read several books on her vacation. They got VIP treatment from Kent, the resort owner, and had a great week of sand, sun, surf and relaxation.
Mom said they were so close to the equator that it stayed so hot. Normally, even on the beach, at night sometimes with the breezes it will be a little cool but apparently not so in Roatan. This place really sounds like a paradise. Maybe I can hack their MAC and post a few pics for everyone. If not, all you Facebookers be looking for Ken to post soon.
Tomorrow night GiGi and Grandaddy have a date with the diva. Todd and I have an appointment so Haidyn will get their undivided attention. After nearly two weeks without seeing her, I hope the two of them don't get into a fight over her attention:) Mom has a treatment in the morning but she will be home early to rest up before I drop Haidyn off around 6pm. I know Haidyn will be more than happy to show her captive audience all her greatest and latest, including 2 more teeth.
By the way, Erica is doing very well with her pregnancy. She says cheeseburgers and french fries are her baby's favorites. Only 3 more weeks till we find out if its a boy or a girl. I think its a girl:)
Thank you so much for your prayers for our family. Mom and Ken have made it back from their first vacation since October safely. Erica is doing well with her pregnancy. And mom is continuing to improve and adjust to her new normal. We could not feel more loved, supported and blessed as a family to know how many prayers continue to be lifted for us. We're still fighting and praying for cancer free! We know that God has the power to heal but we're so thankful everyday for the improvements thus far. God is good always!
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
June 15, 2010
Okay, so I have gotten some emails reminding me I haven't blogged in a while. I know! We have been so busy and honestly things have been going so well. Mom is really finding her rythm again. We did have one scare a few weeks ago. On the Wednesday before her treatment she coughed all day long. As all of you know, coughing non-stop will wear you out. She coughed all through the night and did not get a good nights rest not to mention her wandering mind with all the coughing. About lunch time she made it into the office on Thursday after she has spoken with her nurse to get clearance to take some over the counter meds and had gotten some rest. On Friday when she went in for her treatment they did a chest xray. Everything came back just fine. Peace of mind is priceless!
Mom and Ken have gone on their vacation. By mom's reports in her email they have had the red carpet rolled out and VIP treatment extended to them. Ken is diving. Mom is relaxing and they are having a ball. I am so happy they were able to get away a few days and be "normal".
Since we have adjusted our expectations for the maintenance program life is balancing out well. We are accepting the conditions of life and appreciating every morning we wake with new meaning and gratitude. Life truly is a gift. When you live with this perspective it makes heaven all the more exciting because I have no idea how wonderful it will be when we all finally get there. None of us are ready to go just yet and we certainly are staying 100% determined to reach mom's goal to beat cancer.
Thank you all so much for your continued prayers, emails, cards and concern. The realization of how much we are loved never ceases to amaze and humble us all. God is always good!
Mom and Ken have gone on their vacation. By mom's reports in her email they have had the red carpet rolled out and VIP treatment extended to them. Ken is diving. Mom is relaxing and they are having a ball. I am so happy they were able to get away a few days and be "normal".
Since we have adjusted our expectations for the maintenance program life is balancing out well. We are accepting the conditions of life and appreciating every morning we wake with new meaning and gratitude. Life truly is a gift. When you live with this perspective it makes heaven all the more exciting because I have no idea how wonderful it will be when we all finally get there. None of us are ready to go just yet and we certainly are staying 100% determined to reach mom's goal to beat cancer.
Thank you all so much for your continued prayers, emails, cards and concern. The realization of how much we are loved never ceases to amaze and humble us all. God is always good!
Sunday, May 23, 2010
May 23, 2010
Okay, I am way behind in posting this but better late than never. Mom had her CT scan early last week. They were soooooo busy at the clinic that we didn't fully expect to get a preliminary results email but mom did get one on Thursday with an apology that they had been unable to provide her anything sooner.
Mom's report from the doctor was good. We learned that our expectations for the Clinical Trial drug, Erbitux, were a little off. So. . . to clarify things as Dr. B explained to Mom, Erbitux had a very small part in the the reduction of the tumors for the 6 mo. of treatment with the Chemo drugs. The real "trial" is now - it's purpose is to "maintain" - stop NEW GROWTH of cells. Our thinking was that it would go to the tumor site and shut the vessels down and be continuing to reduce the tumors -- that's a stretch. However, the report said: STABLE, and that's what we need to focus on. The doctor said Mom's goal is: "You need to learn to be peaceful in coexisting with your cancer." Then she went on to encourage mom by saying, "I'm very happy, and I really want you to be very happy with all of this." We are having to readjust our expectations.
Praise God! We have met the goal and mom is doing very well. She was down and home one day last week but I fully believe she was just overdue for a good dose of Haidyn Rae. Friday night Todd had to stay at work late so after I got home and let the boys out Haidyn and I went and picked up GiGi to go see Shelley's new baby Kellen. We were disappointed that Haidyn was unable to go back and meet her boyfriend and see her mama Shelley but that didn't disappoint GiGi at all because she got to sit in the waiting room with Haidyn while I went back to see the baby. Shelley did so well and Kellen is beautiful. Mom did go back and peak at the little chunky monkey but came right back out to get her girl.
Tonight at church the Delta Capella performed. GiGi and Granddaddy had such a good time watching Haidyn enjoy the music. She squealed, bounced, danced and clapped the entire first set. The second set she was so tired that she had to go take a nap. She will definately be a dancer one day when she learns how those legs work.
Thank you all so much for the continued prayers. Mom is adjusting to her new normal. She and Ken leave for vacation soon and they are both really looking forward to some time away in the Caribean together. Mom showed me their resort online and it is beautiful. This is much needed get away if you ask me. I hope their time together is relaxing and many memories are made to carry them through until their next vacation which I hope will be with us to Phoenix to meet our newest addition. Erica and baby are doing very well. God is blessing us all so much. We can never thank you all enough for your love, support, encouragement and prayers to the father for his healing touch. God is so good!
Mom's report from the doctor was good. We learned that our expectations for the Clinical Trial drug, Erbitux, were a little off. So. . . to clarify things as Dr. B explained to Mom, Erbitux had a very small part in the the reduction of the tumors for the 6 mo. of treatment with the Chemo drugs. The real "trial" is now - it's purpose is to "maintain" - stop NEW GROWTH of cells. Our thinking was that it would go to the tumor site and shut the vessels down and be continuing to reduce the tumors -- that's a stretch. However, the report said: STABLE, and that's what we need to focus on. The doctor said Mom's goal is: "You need to learn to be peaceful in coexisting with your cancer." Then she went on to encourage mom by saying, "I'm very happy, and I really want you to be very happy with all of this." We are having to readjust our expectations.
Praise God! We have met the goal and mom is doing very well. She was down and home one day last week but I fully believe she was just overdue for a good dose of Haidyn Rae. Friday night Todd had to stay at work late so after I got home and let the boys out Haidyn and I went and picked up GiGi to go see Shelley's new baby Kellen. We were disappointed that Haidyn was unable to go back and meet her boyfriend and see her mama Shelley but that didn't disappoint GiGi at all because she got to sit in the waiting room with Haidyn while I went back to see the baby. Shelley did so well and Kellen is beautiful. Mom did go back and peak at the little chunky monkey but came right back out to get her girl.
Tonight at church the Delta Capella performed. GiGi and Granddaddy had such a good time watching Haidyn enjoy the music. She squealed, bounced, danced and clapped the entire first set. The second set she was so tired that she had to go take a nap. She will definately be a dancer one day when she learns how those legs work.
Thank you all so much for the continued prayers. Mom is adjusting to her new normal. She and Ken leave for vacation soon and they are both really looking forward to some time away in the Caribean together. Mom showed me their resort online and it is beautiful. This is much needed get away if you ask me. I hope their time together is relaxing and many memories are made to carry them through until their next vacation which I hope will be with us to Phoenix to meet our newest addition. Erica and baby are doing very well. God is blessing us all so much. We can never thank you all enough for your love, support, encouragement and prayers to the father for his healing touch. God is so good!
Saturday, May 15, 2010
may 15, 2010
I apologize again for it being so long. For those who don't know, I manage commercial landscape contracts on the west coast so this is my absolute busiest time of year.
No news is good news! Mom is doing well. There are still good days and bad. The bad days are more fatigue than anything (and its usually after she has pushed it:). She and Ken went "party hopping" from church friends to school parties one night this week and mom was feeling it but she had so much fun.
Mom has been very excited about her hair growing back. I called last weekend and she was out on the patio, no wig, reading a book and sunning. I know they are really looking forward to their vacation in less than a month.
I had to find out from Erica if everybody knows, and she said yes. I feel ackward sharing this for her but it is such a big part of our lives. We have been somewhere between cloud 9 and above the past month or so as we have anxiously awaited info from Phoenix on our newest addition. Erica and Michael are expecting in December! Mommy and baby are doing well at this point so please, as with any pregnancy, pray that everyone stays healthy. Erica says she feels its a boy so I guess we will find out in a couple more months, maybe a little less.
Mother's day was the best yet! Being that it was my 1st mother's day and mom's first GiGi's day it was very special. Haidyn had to stay on her schedule so she couldn't make it to church. Todd and I had the nursery 2nd service, so GiGi and Grandaddy went to 1st service then came and stayed at our house while Haidyn napped and we went to 2nd. We had lunch at the house and visited. I loved getting mom the "gigi collection" from premier jewlery from haidyn. I debated on what to get her. Then I debated on even getting her the necklace and earrings but when I saw the name of the set, well the decision was final. I hope GiGi likes it. And of course, Erica and Michael were greatly missed and spoken of several times.
Mom is still working every day except treatment days. She still has treatments every other week. I haven't looked at the calendar but it seems we should be getting close to a CT scan and results. We are all still praying that she will be cancer free. I know we are all very anxious to find out what the results are without the chemo drugs in the mix. Thank you for all your prayers. Please continue to pray for mom and now for erica and "baby Carroll".
No news is good news! Mom is doing well. There are still good days and bad. The bad days are more fatigue than anything (and its usually after she has pushed it:). She and Ken went "party hopping" from church friends to school parties one night this week and mom was feeling it but she had so much fun.
Mom has been very excited about her hair growing back. I called last weekend and she was out on the patio, no wig, reading a book and sunning. I know they are really looking forward to their vacation in less than a month.
I had to find out from Erica if everybody knows, and she said yes. I feel ackward sharing this for her but it is such a big part of our lives. We have been somewhere between cloud 9 and above the past month or so as we have anxiously awaited info from Phoenix on our newest addition. Erica and Michael are expecting in December! Mommy and baby are doing well at this point so please, as with any pregnancy, pray that everyone stays healthy. Erica says she feels its a boy so I guess we will find out in a couple more months, maybe a little less.
Mother's day was the best yet! Being that it was my 1st mother's day and mom's first GiGi's day it was very special. Haidyn had to stay on her schedule so she couldn't make it to church. Todd and I had the nursery 2nd service, so GiGi and Grandaddy went to 1st service then came and stayed at our house while Haidyn napped and we went to 2nd. We had lunch at the house and visited. I loved getting mom the "gigi collection" from premier jewlery from haidyn. I debated on what to get her. Then I debated on even getting her the necklace and earrings but when I saw the name of the set, well the decision was final. I hope GiGi likes it. And of course, Erica and Michael were greatly missed and spoken of several times.
Mom is still working every day except treatment days. She still has treatments every other week. I haven't looked at the calendar but it seems we should be getting close to a CT scan and results. We are all still praying that she will be cancer free. I know we are all very anxious to find out what the results are without the chemo drugs in the mix. Thank you for all your prayers. Please continue to pray for mom and now for erica and "baby Carroll".
Friday, April 30, 2010
April 30,2010
Well life is good. Mom has been working every day except every other Friday when she has treatments. Ken has scheduled their vacation to one of the islands. Mom came over one day this week and showed me the resort they will be staying in and it is beautiful. I am so happy for both of them.
The treatments of the Erbitux have been more difficult physically than we expected but mom is doing so well with it. She told us this week that her hair is growing back and longer that Todd's-haha. She told me Monday that her hair is coming in with a lot more grey than before. Mom only had a few greys in her temple area so it will be interesting. I think we will all miss her spunky do but maybe she will style it in a similar way.
Haidyn is absolutely the highlight of every day for mom, who am I kidding me too:). We've had a rough month for her day care situation and we all have been praying like crazy for someone that can fill the summer till haidyn starts school in august. While I was in California last week, GiGi was "on call". Besides the lack of socks most days, the christmas shirt on Thursday and lotion in her hair because her head looked dry, everyone was healthy and happy when I got home. Her new jabber, following you from room to room crawling and pulling up on anyone and everything have made for countless stories and laughs. Thank God for our little suprise that came in perfect timing to distract, encourage and love us through the last 7 months.
We can't thank everyone enough for all the prayers. Please don't stop. We are still begging God for cancer free but Josh said something that really hit home in one of his recent sermons. He told of a cancer patient that admitted his prayers were not cancer free because he feared the close walk with the Lord would grow distant. Since mom's diagnosis we have been tested emotionally and spiritually. Although we continue to pray for her to be cancer free I am also praying that we will continue to stay in an intimate prayer life and live closer to God through the journey. It will only be a few more weeks till mom has her first CT scan since ending Chemo treatments so we are prayerful that the tumors are continuing to shrink and mom's white count is back up.
Thank you, thank you for the prayers- God has been so good!
The treatments of the Erbitux have been more difficult physically than we expected but mom is doing so well with it. She told us this week that her hair is growing back and longer that Todd's-haha. She told me Monday that her hair is coming in with a lot more grey than before. Mom only had a few greys in her temple area so it will be interesting. I think we will all miss her spunky do but maybe she will style it in a similar way.
Haidyn is absolutely the highlight of every day for mom, who am I kidding me too:). We've had a rough month for her day care situation and we all have been praying like crazy for someone that can fill the summer till haidyn starts school in august. While I was in California last week, GiGi was "on call". Besides the lack of socks most days, the christmas shirt on Thursday and lotion in her hair because her head looked dry, everyone was healthy and happy when I got home. Her new jabber, following you from room to room crawling and pulling up on anyone and everything have made for countless stories and laughs. Thank God for our little suprise that came in perfect timing to distract, encourage and love us through the last 7 months.
We can't thank everyone enough for all the prayers. Please don't stop. We are still begging God for cancer free but Josh said something that really hit home in one of his recent sermons. He told of a cancer patient that admitted his prayers were not cancer free because he feared the close walk with the Lord would grow distant. Since mom's diagnosis we have been tested emotionally and spiritually. Although we continue to pray for her to be cancer free I am also praying that we will continue to stay in an intimate prayer life and live closer to God through the journey. It will only be a few more weeks till mom has her first CT scan since ending Chemo treatments so we are prayerful that the tumors are continuing to shrink and mom's white count is back up.
Thank you, thank you for the prayers- God has been so good!
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
April 14, 2010
God is good! This has been a tough week for us all. We started with a new babysitter and transition is rough when you have a very routine baby. We feel very blessed to have such an adaptable daughter but even the best struggle at just 7 months old. Please keep our family in prayer as I will be in California next week. Thankfully GiGi will only be a phone call away but I know daddy will do great.
Last night was especially fun to go to mom's. Ken was suppose to be at pottery and Todd was suppose to be training at the gym so mom and I planned a girls night. It mainly consisted of spoiling Haidyn but what are they for if you can't spoil them, right? Haidyn got to ride in her pink princess ride. Then GiGi fed her. She was absolutely amazed at how much food she can put away and how upset you get if you don't keep the pace. Haha. For almost 13 pounds she can eat a pretty big meal. After dinner mom had to make me prove that Haidyn can actually crawl. She just started about a week and a half ago. Mom crawled around acting silly trying to get her going. She sat there on her bottom polietly watching and giggling behind her passy. Then I got down there, took the passy, showed her my braclet, then tossed it across the rug. She took one look across the rug and spotted it's landing spot. She looked back at me as if to say, "why would you toss it all the way over there when I could grab it from here when it was on your arm?" She put those hands down in front of her, the bottom went straight up in the air, GiGi started cheering for her to crawl, so she dropped back down to her knees and off she went. I don't know who was laughing harder out of the 3 of us. Mom absolutely loved it. After that haidyn did plenty of showing off. She even pulled up on the chair and stood there posing in her new swimsuit for pictures. It was so fun. We really missed Todd and Ken.
For those of you who knew Faye Chamblis, Ken's children's grandmother on their mother's side, she passed late last night. Ken was at the MED with Patrick, his son, Tom, his brother, and Lisa, Tom's wife. It was a sad night but I know that being together was a blessing. Mom told me that Ken had a tough day today going through Faye's things with Patrick. She shared the pictures of Haidyn last night with him and told him he needed a dose of Haidyn to lift his spirits. We will have to make it by in the next day or so. Please keep the family in prayer, especially Patrick, as they prepare for the memorial and sort through all of her affairs. Patrick was very close to his grandmother so this has been extremely difficult for him.
We are still waiting on results from Ken's testing that was done about 10 days ago. I believe he is feeling better but still not well. Mom is feeling good too. We believe she may have gotten a bug but she's now over it. The Erbitux treatment seemed to take more out of her this last time around. They have doubled the dosage now that she is off chemo and on maintenance. She's going to ask at her next visit if that is typical to feel a little more under the weather after the higher dosage. You would not know she has been as tired as she tells us she has been. The woman is working every day!
I have always been amazed at my mom's mental and emotional strength but the past 6 months have proven not only her physical strength but also her endurance as well. She is an amazing wife, mother and GiGi. What a role model of a fighter no matter what the circumstance she has presented to us all in the last 6 months especially. We don't know where we would be without all the continued prayers and the healing power of God. He has richly blessed us. We're still praying for a full cure so please continue those prayers with us.
Mom said she was completely taken back when Janet, one of her co-workers and a friend of more than 15 years, brought in a brochure yesterday to work. She got it at HeartSong where her son attends the day care. The brochure was advertising for a walk downtown for lung cancer in May. Janet wants to get together a team from their office to walk in the fundraiser. I told mom if they decide to get a team together that Haidyn and I want to walk in it as well in honor of my mom. I will let you all know details as I learn more. What a fun way to celebrate the success of those fighting this disease, remember those who have suffered and continue to support research to find a cure. How sweet is it that mom is blessed to work with such a caring and supportive group of friends who continue to amaze us with their love and compassion. Without their daily support this could and would have been a much more difficult journey.
Thank you for all the prayers. Cards continue to come along with emails, messages and phone calls. God is answering and mom is getting stronger, feeling better and living her life to its absolute fullest every day. God is always good!
Last night was especially fun to go to mom's. Ken was suppose to be at pottery and Todd was suppose to be training at the gym so mom and I planned a girls night. It mainly consisted of spoiling Haidyn but what are they for if you can't spoil them, right? Haidyn got to ride in her pink princess ride. Then GiGi fed her. She was absolutely amazed at how much food she can put away and how upset you get if you don't keep the pace. Haha. For almost 13 pounds she can eat a pretty big meal. After dinner mom had to make me prove that Haidyn can actually crawl. She just started about a week and a half ago. Mom crawled around acting silly trying to get her going. She sat there on her bottom polietly watching and giggling behind her passy. Then I got down there, took the passy, showed her my braclet, then tossed it across the rug. She took one look across the rug and spotted it's landing spot. She looked back at me as if to say, "why would you toss it all the way over there when I could grab it from here when it was on your arm?" She put those hands down in front of her, the bottom went straight up in the air, GiGi started cheering for her to crawl, so she dropped back down to her knees and off she went. I don't know who was laughing harder out of the 3 of us. Mom absolutely loved it. After that haidyn did plenty of showing off. She even pulled up on the chair and stood there posing in her new swimsuit for pictures. It was so fun. We really missed Todd and Ken.
For those of you who knew Faye Chamblis, Ken's children's grandmother on their mother's side, she passed late last night. Ken was at the MED with Patrick, his son, Tom, his brother, and Lisa, Tom's wife. It was a sad night but I know that being together was a blessing. Mom told me that Ken had a tough day today going through Faye's things with Patrick. She shared the pictures of Haidyn last night with him and told him he needed a dose of Haidyn to lift his spirits. We will have to make it by in the next day or so. Please keep the family in prayer, especially Patrick, as they prepare for the memorial and sort through all of her affairs. Patrick was very close to his grandmother so this has been extremely difficult for him.
We are still waiting on results from Ken's testing that was done about 10 days ago. I believe he is feeling better but still not well. Mom is feeling good too. We believe she may have gotten a bug but she's now over it. The Erbitux treatment seemed to take more out of her this last time around. They have doubled the dosage now that she is off chemo and on maintenance. She's going to ask at her next visit if that is typical to feel a little more under the weather after the higher dosage. You would not know she has been as tired as she tells us she has been. The woman is working every day!
I have always been amazed at my mom's mental and emotional strength but the past 6 months have proven not only her physical strength but also her endurance as well. She is an amazing wife, mother and GiGi. What a role model of a fighter no matter what the circumstance she has presented to us all in the last 6 months especially. We don't know where we would be without all the continued prayers and the healing power of God. He has richly blessed us. We're still praying for a full cure so please continue those prayers with us.
Mom said she was completely taken back when Janet, one of her co-workers and a friend of more than 15 years, brought in a brochure yesterday to work. She got it at HeartSong where her son attends the day care. The brochure was advertising for a walk downtown for lung cancer in May. Janet wants to get together a team from their office to walk in the fundraiser. I told mom if they decide to get a team together that Haidyn and I want to walk in it as well in honor of my mom. I will let you all know details as I learn more. What a fun way to celebrate the success of those fighting this disease, remember those who have suffered and continue to support research to find a cure. How sweet is it that mom is blessed to work with such a caring and supportive group of friends who continue to amaze us with their love and compassion. Without their daily support this could and would have been a much more difficult journey.
Thank you for all the prayers. Cards continue to come along with emails, messages and phone calls. God is answering and mom is getting stronger, feeling better and living her life to its absolute fullest every day. God is always good!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
April 8, 2010
God has been good. We had a fabulous Easter. It was so fun to dress the baby up and see mom's excitement to have a grandbaby for Easter. Oh course Haidyn got an Easter basket complete not only with animal crackers and toys for her but also chocolates for mommy and daddy.
Some of Ken's family from California and Alabama have been in town the past couple of days. Its so awesome that mom is finally feeling up to activities. She is now working everyday and most of everyday. Praise God!
Now we have to get Ken better. For those that don't know, he has had a cough since the fall. Mom and I have fussed at him non-stop. He finally had a doctor's appointment at the end of last week. He got a prescription cough syrup and mom said that was the first night she can remember in a long time that he didn't cough all night. Hopefully they will be able to pin point what the problem is and we can get him better now that mom is feeling better.
They are getting very excited about planning a vacation. I'm not sure that they know exactly where they are headed but if I had my guess, I would say they will probably end up on an island where they will have sun, sand and surf. They have finally come around to my kind of vacations! When I lived at home they always wanted to go to places that were jammed pack full of sightseeing. I want to relax when I'm on vacation and I'm so glad that seems to be what they are planning on doing.
Thank you for all your prayers, cards and encouragement. God is so good always!
Some of Ken's family from California and Alabama have been in town the past couple of days. Its so awesome that mom is finally feeling up to activities. She is now working everyday and most of everyday. Praise God!
Now we have to get Ken better. For those that don't know, he has had a cough since the fall. Mom and I have fussed at him non-stop. He finally had a doctor's appointment at the end of last week. He got a prescription cough syrup and mom said that was the first night she can remember in a long time that he didn't cough all night. Hopefully they will be able to pin point what the problem is and we can get him better now that mom is feeling better.
They are getting very excited about planning a vacation. I'm not sure that they know exactly where they are headed but if I had my guess, I would say they will probably end up on an island where they will have sun, sand and surf. They have finally come around to my kind of vacations! When I lived at home they always wanted to go to places that were jammed pack full of sightseeing. I want to relax when I'm on vacation and I'm so glad that seems to be what they are planning on doing.
Thank you for all your prayers, cards and encouragement. God is so good always!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
March 30, 2010
Please forgive me for taking so long to post an update- our lives have been 90 to nothing lately. So, here goes...
Mom's birthday was last Thursday. We had her and Ken over for dinner. It was so fun and Haidyn Rae officially likes birthday cake and icing:) Friday morning I left work to meet mom and Ken at West for her visit with Dr. B. It was Dr. B's birthday too so mom gave her a card and a braclet for lung cancer research and awareness. She put it right on. We love her.
So the chemo is over. Mom calls it her "no month chemo party" these days. The fluid is still gone, the nodules- gone, the two tumors they are monitoring are 38% smaller than diagnosis. Amazing results! God has been so good. She will continue on the clinical trial drug as "maintenance" as they call it. They will increase her dosage slightly since she no longer has the chemo and she will only go for treatments every other week. The Erbitux will continue to starve the cancer cells thus shrinking them, at a much slower pace, but most importantly prohibit them from recruiting healthy cells to becoming cancer cells.
We asked about the disease in the rib bone. She said all she can tell us for sure is that it is not progressing. Bone disease is like any other bone injury. Like my broken ribs will always appear broken but I am healed. Mom said some days they feel numb and others they feel itchy. Either way Dr. B is confident they are not worse but is unable to give any diagnosis of real healing. At this time, future chemo is off the table. No conversation for radiation or surgery either.
Mom wanted to know what she can do to regain her energy. The answer for that was quick and simple- nothing. Only time will help the effects of the chemo, poison, in her body wear off. Then she will begin to regain her energy. Please pray for her patience with herself as she allows God and time to do their healing. Ken and mom are anxious to travel so I know mom's energy will become more and more important as they look to schedule some much needed vacation time.
Mom's friend Kathy from college came and spent a few nights at their house over the weekend. Mom was so excited leading up to the weekend and enjoyed every minute. She said they just sat and talked and laughed for hours. They even when through their lists of boyfriends from college days. Kathy's visit was so theraputic for her. I got the honor of meeting her and spending some time getting to know her, you will never meet a sweeter soul. Thank you Lord for so many sweet friends who have encouraged, prayed for us and loved us through the last 6 months. He has been so good. We are looking forward to clebrating our first Easter with the baby girl. I am sure there will be some silly pictures we can post after the weekend. Unfortunately I don't think Haidyn will be able to fit into her first Easter dress that Aunt Erica got her. Even though it is a 6 month dress and she is officially 7 months old- at less than 13 pounds she is wearing size 3 month dresses. Todd calls his baby girl "travel size"- LOL. What a huge blessing in such a little body!
Thank you so much for your prayers. Please continue to pray for the cancer free miracle- we refuse to give up. With CT scans every 8 weeks we will be able to know exactly mom's progress and give God specific glory for the healing she will be continuing to do on the maintenance program. God is good always!!!
Mom's birthday was last Thursday. We had her and Ken over for dinner. It was so fun and Haidyn Rae officially likes birthday cake and icing:) Friday morning I left work to meet mom and Ken at West for her visit with Dr. B. It was Dr. B's birthday too so mom gave her a card and a braclet for lung cancer research and awareness. She put it right on. We love her.
So the chemo is over. Mom calls it her "no month chemo party" these days. The fluid is still gone, the nodules- gone, the two tumors they are monitoring are 38% smaller than diagnosis. Amazing results! God has been so good. She will continue on the clinical trial drug as "maintenance" as they call it. They will increase her dosage slightly since she no longer has the chemo and she will only go for treatments every other week. The Erbitux will continue to starve the cancer cells thus shrinking them, at a much slower pace, but most importantly prohibit them from recruiting healthy cells to becoming cancer cells.
We asked about the disease in the rib bone. She said all she can tell us for sure is that it is not progressing. Bone disease is like any other bone injury. Like my broken ribs will always appear broken but I am healed. Mom said some days they feel numb and others they feel itchy. Either way Dr. B is confident they are not worse but is unable to give any diagnosis of real healing. At this time, future chemo is off the table. No conversation for radiation or surgery either.
Mom wanted to know what she can do to regain her energy. The answer for that was quick and simple- nothing. Only time will help the effects of the chemo, poison, in her body wear off. Then she will begin to regain her energy. Please pray for her patience with herself as she allows God and time to do their healing. Ken and mom are anxious to travel so I know mom's energy will become more and more important as they look to schedule some much needed vacation time.
Mom's friend Kathy from college came and spent a few nights at their house over the weekend. Mom was so excited leading up to the weekend and enjoyed every minute. She said they just sat and talked and laughed for hours. They even when through their lists of boyfriends from college days. Kathy's visit was so theraputic for her. I got the honor of meeting her and spending some time getting to know her, you will never meet a sweeter soul. Thank you Lord for so many sweet friends who have encouraged, prayed for us and loved us through the last 6 months. He has been so good. We are looking forward to clebrating our first Easter with the baby girl. I am sure there will be some silly pictures we can post after the weekend. Unfortunately I don't think Haidyn will be able to fit into her first Easter dress that Aunt Erica got her. Even though it is a 6 month dress and she is officially 7 months old- at less than 13 pounds she is wearing size 3 month dresses. Todd calls his baby girl "travel size"- LOL. What a huge blessing in such a little body!
Thank you so much for your prayers. Please continue to pray for the cancer free miracle- we refuse to give up. With CT scans every 8 weeks we will be able to know exactly mom's progress and give God specific glory for the healing she will be continuing to do on the maintenance program. God is good always!!!
Monday, March 22, 2010
March 22,2010
Todd loves it when he gets information before me, especially when it is this important or exciting. Mom went and had her CT scan today. Her research nurse, Angela, emailed her this evening and told her preliminary results indicate a 50% decrease since the last CT scan in the tumors! Mom said she was so overwhelmed when she read it she had to let Ken read it for himself, she couldn't. What a blessing. Thank you so much for your prayers!
The devotional today said "trust in Me." For those who know the name of the Lord trust in it, He has never forsaken those that trust in Him. It has not been easy. He has stretched us to what we thought were our limits. He has challenged our faith with this diagnosis but he has never left us. He has continued to have so many minister to us all, not just mom and ken. He has guided the doctors and nurses through treatments. He has answered thousands and more prayers lifted begging for healing. We are so thankful.
Mom is feeling pretty strong most days. She's working everyday but treatment days. She is even expecting some company this coming weekend. We have her appointment with Dr. B Friday to go over everything. For right now we believe the plan will be to maintenance treatments of the Erbitux every other week. We will know for sure on Friday. For those who may not know, Mom's birthday is the 25th, Thursday. What better gift to be given than your health!
Thank you so much for your continued love, encouragement and prayers. We are a richly blessed family.
The devotional today said "trust in Me." For those who know the name of the Lord trust in it, He has never forsaken those that trust in Him. It has not been easy. He has stretched us to what we thought were our limits. He has challenged our faith with this diagnosis but he has never left us. He has continued to have so many minister to us all, not just mom and ken. He has guided the doctors and nurses through treatments. He has answered thousands and more prayers lifted begging for healing. We are so thankful.
Mom is feeling pretty strong most days. She's working everyday but treatment days. She is even expecting some company this coming weekend. We have her appointment with Dr. B Friday to go over everything. For right now we believe the plan will be to maintenance treatments of the Erbitux every other week. We will know for sure on Friday. For those who may not know, Mom's birthday is the 25th, Thursday. What better gift to be given than your health!
Thank you so much for your continued love, encouragement and prayers. We are a richly blessed family.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
March 16, 2010
What a busy week and a half we have had! Mom went last Thursday to have her treatment. As usual she was kinda loopy from the pre-meds. She and Todd can't take benadryl the way I can so I always think its funny so their physical reaction to it. Her numbers were good and she had so much strength the few days before that when she got in the car- well, Ken just kept driving all the way to Virginia. They got to grandmommie's late but it didn't matter to them.
Friday they spent the day visiting with the Mitchell family and bragging on their baby girl. I'm sure Erica and I were atleast mentioned but there's a new girl in town-haha. Grandmommie has gotten a laptop and they downloaded over a thousand pictures onto it. I'm sure there were a few pics of somebody other than Haidyn Rae in there but whoever it was was probably holding her:)
Saturday Uncle John, mom's brother, and aunt Barbara drove down from DC. They were able to eat and visit with them for a few hours before heading home. They said it was so good to see everyone. Since we had to skip our usual trip to VA at Thanksgiving it had been over a year since they had seen her. I think they were all probably amazed at how well mom is doing, and looking! I'm so glad they were able to make the trip. It meant so much to mom.
Sunday she was just plain exhausted so she didn't make it to church but she did sneak by in the afternoon to rock Haidyn for her nap and tell me about their trip. She was so excited still as she told me all about their visit.
She is still working about everyday but treatment days. Everyday I think she feels a little stronger than the day before and somedays she stays longer than others. She has one more weekly treatment then next week we have her results appointment. I can't wait to know in numbers the answers to our prayers in her test results.
God is good, always! Thank you so much for your prayers. We are such a blessed family. We are still praying for the miracle of cancer free and counting our blessings and thanking God for loosing count.
Friday they spent the day visiting with the Mitchell family and bragging on their baby girl. I'm sure Erica and I were atleast mentioned but there's a new girl in town-haha. Grandmommie has gotten a laptop and they downloaded over a thousand pictures onto it. I'm sure there were a few pics of somebody other than Haidyn Rae in there but whoever it was was probably holding her:)
Saturday Uncle John, mom's brother, and aunt Barbara drove down from DC. They were able to eat and visit with them for a few hours before heading home. They said it was so good to see everyone. Since we had to skip our usual trip to VA at Thanksgiving it had been over a year since they had seen her. I think they were all probably amazed at how well mom is doing, and looking! I'm so glad they were able to make the trip. It meant so much to mom.
Sunday she was just plain exhausted so she didn't make it to church but she did sneak by in the afternoon to rock Haidyn for her nap and tell me about their trip. She was so excited still as she told me all about their visit.
She is still working about everyday but treatment days. Everyday I think she feels a little stronger than the day before and somedays she stays longer than others. She has one more weekly treatment then next week we have her results appointment. I can't wait to know in numbers the answers to our prayers in her test results.
God is good, always! Thank you so much for your prayers. We are such a blessed family. We are still praying for the miracle of cancer free and counting our blessings and thanking God for loosing count.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
March 6, 2010
Yesterday mom had her final round of chemo administered. That was her long 3 day medicine that we look forward to and dread at the same time. The chemo is what kills the cancer but it also runs her down and makes for such a long day in the clinic. This time it didn't seem to take as long to me though.
Her blood work was good. They will wait a few days to see how low her white count gets before giving her the shot. On the 26th (the day after mom's birthday:) we will have another update complete with CT scan results to see where we are. Then she will have two more consecutive weeks of the clinical trial drug before we are on to the next plan.
At this point her body needs a break. It will need time to recover from the months of chemo she has endured. The plan, as we know it today, will be that she go on maintenance. That means she will continue to have treatments of the Erbitux, which is the inhibitor drug, every other week. After every fourth treatment they will scan her and update us. Its a little scary to think there is still tumors in her lungs and we won't be aggresively attack them with the chemo but its in God's hands. Also, to my understanding not only does the Erbitux continue to inhibit communication with healthy cells to prevent spreading but also it has the potential to continue to shrink what is there just on a much smaller scale at a much longer pace.
After her treatment yesterday she and ken went to Fridays to eat. That is over by our house so I told mom she had to swing by. When I got home with the little diva they were already there waiting. Granddaddy got to steal all Haidyn's sugar while entertaining her as mom and I went nuts over all the precious clothes I got at the church children's clothes sale. Not that our fashionista really needed a think but I got her about 20 outfits, mostly smocked and/or dresses. Mom cannot get over how prissy and pretty I dress Haidyn. After all I was her daughter who took firm grip of any hair bow ever placed in my hair, gave it a jerk and announced "no bow!" before throwing it in the floor and running off. Haha. I'm sure some of you who remember me as a child can validate these stories of my non-prissy ways. GiGi is certainly doing her part to spoil and priss. She bought a princess walker completely pink and accessorized with a castle that lights up and sings, a princess dress and other dainty things. I told her if any boys come along they will certainly feel slighted if they have to walk around in that.
God is so good. We have put our trust in him and he continues to bless us with mom's healing, the faith and encouragement of friends, overwhelming love and prayers and strengthen faith daily. Although the answer of cancer free has not come, we continue to pray for that miracle. We continue to believe it is possible and we are blessed with each day to make memories, serve him here on earth and hopefully show other's Jesus by our actions and example of living by faith. Cancer is terrible! I new understanding, respect and empathy has been learned through this experience. Also, we have a tremendous appreciation for those doctors and nurses who treat and research to develop treatments and cures and who are saving lives. God bless them. Thank you can't be said and expressed enough for all your prayers. Please continue to pray for cancer free!
Her blood work was good. They will wait a few days to see how low her white count gets before giving her the shot. On the 26th (the day after mom's birthday:) we will have another update complete with CT scan results to see where we are. Then she will have two more consecutive weeks of the clinical trial drug before we are on to the next plan.
At this point her body needs a break. It will need time to recover from the months of chemo she has endured. The plan, as we know it today, will be that she go on maintenance. That means she will continue to have treatments of the Erbitux, which is the inhibitor drug, every other week. After every fourth treatment they will scan her and update us. Its a little scary to think there is still tumors in her lungs and we won't be aggresively attack them with the chemo but its in God's hands. Also, to my understanding not only does the Erbitux continue to inhibit communication with healthy cells to prevent spreading but also it has the potential to continue to shrink what is there just on a much smaller scale at a much longer pace.
After her treatment yesterday she and ken went to Fridays to eat. That is over by our house so I told mom she had to swing by. When I got home with the little diva they were already there waiting. Granddaddy got to steal all Haidyn's sugar while entertaining her as mom and I went nuts over all the precious clothes I got at the church children's clothes sale. Not that our fashionista really needed a think but I got her about 20 outfits, mostly smocked and/or dresses. Mom cannot get over how prissy and pretty I dress Haidyn. After all I was her daughter who took firm grip of any hair bow ever placed in my hair, gave it a jerk and announced "no bow!" before throwing it in the floor and running off. Haha. I'm sure some of you who remember me as a child can validate these stories of my non-prissy ways. GiGi is certainly doing her part to spoil and priss. She bought a princess walker completely pink and accessorized with a castle that lights up and sings, a princess dress and other dainty things. I told her if any boys come along they will certainly feel slighted if they have to walk around in that.
God is so good. We have put our trust in him and he continues to bless us with mom's healing, the faith and encouragement of friends, overwhelming love and prayers and strengthen faith daily. Although the answer of cancer free has not come, we continue to pray for that miracle. We continue to believe it is possible and we are blessed with each day to make memories, serve him here on earth and hopefully show other's Jesus by our actions and example of living by faith. Cancer is terrible! I new understanding, respect and empathy has been learned through this experience. Also, we have a tremendous appreciation for those doctors and nurses who treat and research to develop treatments and cures and who are saving lives. God bless them. Thank you can't be said and expressed enough for all your prayers. Please continue to pray for cancer free!
Monday, March 1, 2010
March 1, 2010
Our lives have been so busy lately but God has really been showering us with blessings. Mom went last Wednesday, I think it was, and had her Erbitux treatment. Her white count is back up higher than before she started chemo- yay, praise God! She is feeling stronger everyday. They put her on antibiotics more as prevention I think than anything else. Tuesday Ken and I both were put on antibiotics then mom on Wednesday! Ken has that same ole sinus stuff and I have had ear infections. I think we have all turned the corner now and on our way to health. Now if we could just get Mother Nature to work with us and decide if it will be winter or spring I think we could proclaim better health. Our weather here has been crazy this year and they are calling for snow again tonight.
Mom has made it to church two weeks in a row now and we've even been able to go out for lunch. She is really enjoying the company as much if not more than the meals that continue to come a couple times a week. I can't say enough about how thoughtful and helpful that is and continues to be for them. Mom has absolutely loved getting to know some new people but old friends better as they come to bring food and now she can visit with them. Cards and emails continue to come as well. We are such a rich family!
Mom stayed at work atleast one day till about 5:30 last week. She didn't go in until about 9 she said- haha. She had what seemed to be a really productive week at work. I hope this week goes just as well. She got emotional one day telling me that she just had to stop after she left the office and pray. She not only thanked God for her supportive office staff but also for the job she enjoys. She got teary telling me she just prayed to God that this cancer will not shorten her life because she has so much life left to live and things she wants to do. She really enjoys working for Dr's Turner and Ijams and loves her team there. She also feels that personally she still has a lot of being a wife, mom, GiGi and friend left to do before she goes to heaven. I agree! I told her God is using all of us but especially her in so many ways. We have put our faith in Him and he continues to amaze us with his love, grace and healing.
Thank you all so much for your prayers! He is answering. As we celebrate our baby's 6 month birthday today I can help but think back on all the ways God has challenged and blessed me personally in just 6 months. Its exciting to have benchmarks to look back so clearly and be able to see, "yep, that was God on that day and that day" and know that God willing he will give us all tomorrow to praise Him and look for the blessings embedded.
Mom has made it to church two weeks in a row now and we've even been able to go out for lunch. She is really enjoying the company as much if not more than the meals that continue to come a couple times a week. I can't say enough about how thoughtful and helpful that is and continues to be for them. Mom has absolutely loved getting to know some new people but old friends better as they come to bring food and now she can visit with them. Cards and emails continue to come as well. We are such a rich family!
Mom stayed at work atleast one day till about 5:30 last week. She didn't go in until about 9 she said- haha. She had what seemed to be a really productive week at work. I hope this week goes just as well. She got emotional one day telling me that she just had to stop after she left the office and pray. She not only thanked God for her supportive office staff but also for the job she enjoys. She got teary telling me she just prayed to God that this cancer will not shorten her life because she has so much life left to live and things she wants to do. She really enjoys working for Dr's Turner and Ijams and loves her team there. She also feels that personally she still has a lot of being a wife, mom, GiGi and friend left to do before she goes to heaven. I agree! I told her God is using all of us but especially her in so many ways. We have put our faith in Him and he continues to amaze us with his love, grace and healing.
Thank you all so much for your prayers! He is answering. As we celebrate our baby's 6 month birthday today I can help but think back on all the ways God has challenged and blessed me personally in just 6 months. Its exciting to have benchmarks to look back so clearly and be able to see, "yep, that was God on that day and that day" and know that God willing he will give us all tomorrow to praise Him and look for the blessings embedded.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
February 22, 2010
This has been a pretty good week for mom. Sunday she was able to go to church. I was so happy she was there. She got to hold Haidyn almost the entire service and thankfully Haidyn was a very good girl for her.
After church Sunday we were even able to go to lunch at Picadilly. I could tell mom was getting tired so I'm sure she went home to sleep. Karen Shaw brought them dinner Saturday night. Mom said they sat in the living room and has such a good visit with her. The last time Karen came was early on and mom was still so weak. She is not only enjoying the food and the break it gives them but also she is enjoying the company now. Since her white count has been down her social interactions have been so limited. Having someone one on one, who is healthy, in their home has become such a treat for mom.
I can't tell you all enough how moved we are by the continued prayers, food, emails, phone calls, and visits- and she's still getting some super sweet cards too. God has blessed us with such an extended support to literally care us through this storm. God is so good.
Ken is battling a rough cough. He went to the doctor yesterday, mom demanded it. Hopefully he will start to feel better soon and mom will be able to stay healthy.
Thank you for your faithfulness.
After church Sunday we were even able to go to lunch at Picadilly. I could tell mom was getting tired so I'm sure she went home to sleep. Karen Shaw brought them dinner Saturday night. Mom said they sat in the living room and has such a good visit with her. The last time Karen came was early on and mom was still so weak. She is not only enjoying the food and the break it gives them but also she is enjoying the company now. Since her white count has been down her social interactions have been so limited. Having someone one on one, who is healthy, in their home has become such a treat for mom.
I can't tell you all enough how moved we are by the continued prayers, food, emails, phone calls, and visits- and she's still getting some super sweet cards too. God has blessed us with such an extended support to literally care us through this storm. God is so good.
Ken is battling a rough cough. He went to the doctor yesterday, mom demanded it. Hopefully he will start to feel better soon and mom will be able to stay healthy.
Thank you for your faithfulness.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
February 17, 2010
What an amazing kickoff for our 40 day prayer campaign for 38134 at our church tonight. I'm so sorry that mom wasn't able to be with us but I know Ken will tell her about it. I feel like this family started our prayer campaign 4 months ago to the day when mom had her biopsy to determine why she couldn't seem to catch her breath. What an overwhelming 4 months we have not only endured but been blessed by.
Mom is doing so well responding positively to the treatments with very few negative side effects. She is working 20-30 hours a week. She is a beautiful, exciting grandmother to mŸ baby girl and she remains positive everyday. We haven't stopped praying for the miracle for Him to heal her and to proclaim cancer free but we have accepted the reality that living with cancer doesn't have to be negative either. I am so anxious for her to complete the chemo and for us to get results. We have no idea what the future holds or what the doctors will recommend for treatment after March but we have put our trust in God and His plan. Thank you all so much for the continued cards and prayers. It is unbelievable that 4 months later they are still receiving meals atleast a couple times a week. I can't tell you enough how helpful that is for them. That really allows mom to go be "normal" and be at work most if not all morning then come home and sleep without the stress of worrying about preparing a meal and all the cleaning up after cooking. When Ken gets home they are able to share their time together over a meal or catching up on the day so he isn't in the kitchen every night too. We have been overwhelmed with the love and support shown to us. God is good always! All of our prayers have been answered. God has his own timing and waiting on the end result seems so unbearable at times but God has supplied all our needs including friends and family to shoulder the burden and pray with and for us. Thank you! May God bless you as he is blessing us.
Mom is doing so well responding positively to the treatments with very few negative side effects. She is working 20-30 hours a week. She is a beautiful, exciting grandmother to mŸ baby girl and she remains positive everyday. We haven't stopped praying for the miracle for Him to heal her and to proclaim cancer free but we have accepted the reality that living with cancer doesn't have to be negative either. I am so anxious for her to complete the chemo and for us to get results. We have no idea what the future holds or what the doctors will recommend for treatment after March but we have put our trust in God and His plan. Thank you all so much for the continued cards and prayers. It is unbelievable that 4 months later they are still receiving meals atleast a couple times a week. I can't tell you enough how helpful that is for them. That really allows mom to go be "normal" and be at work most if not all morning then come home and sleep without the stress of worrying about preparing a meal and all the cleaning up after cooking. When Ken gets home they are able to share their time together over a meal or catching up on the day so he isn't in the kitchen every night too. We have been overwhelmed with the love and support shown to us. God is good always! All of our prayers have been answered. God has his own timing and waiting on the end result seems so unbearable at times but God has supplied all our needs including friends and family to shoulder the burden and pray with and for us. Thank you! May God bless you as he is blessing us.
Monday, February 15, 2010
february 15, 2010
The snow fell but not enough to stop mom from getting her Erbitux treatment this afternoon. She was feeling a little more achy towards the middle and end of last week but she got back to work today. I'm so glad she's feeling better.
We got to do some more sewing last weekend. Its so much fun to learn how to make stuff and see your baby wearing it. Now I know why mama really did enjoy sewing all the time for me and Erica. I even got some material to make missy her own peticoat so she doesn't have to wear mine. Mama said she has made several on those.
The Walkers came over Saturday night and brought them dinner. We were talking about the fact that with the exception of the holidays when we were cooking plenty there, meals have come atleast a couple nights a week. What a blessing! And we know for every meal there are countless prayers being raised. God is so good. Thank you for your continued prayers, love and support.
We got to do some more sewing last weekend. Its so much fun to learn how to make stuff and see your baby wearing it. Now I know why mama really did enjoy sewing all the time for me and Erica. I even got some material to make missy her own peticoat so she doesn't have to wear mine. Mama said she has made several on those.
The Walkers came over Saturday night and brought them dinner. We were talking about the fact that with the exception of the holidays when we were cooking plenty there, meals have come atleast a couple nights a week. What a blessing! And we know for every meal there are countless prayers being raised. God is so good. Thank you for your continued prayers, love and support.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
February 13, 2010
This has been a long week. After mom had her treatment Monday she went back Tuesday for the shot that helps her white count recover. Angela, the nurse, told mom she would most likely feel run down, achy and sore. She did. She didn't make it to work Wednesday or Thursday but she did get some much needed rest.
The sewing machine needed several repairs but its back in working order and at the house ready for today. Haidyn and I will go over in a few hours to finish our projects and possibly start some new ones. Sewing with mom is fun and great memories for later but seeing our baby in what we make her is even more fun.
Mom will have her next 2 treatments on Mondays. Then she will go almost 2 weeks to get her back to Friday treatment days. Only 5 more treatments left. I am anxious for this therapy to be over so we can see all the ways God is answering prayer and healing her body. We already can see how much better she is feeling. God is so good. Please continue to pray for the miracle- we want to be cancer free! Thank you so much to everyone for being so faithful on our journey.
The sewing machine needed several repairs but its back in working order and at the house ready for today. Haidyn and I will go over in a few hours to finish our projects and possibly start some new ones. Sewing with mom is fun and great memories for later but seeing our baby in what we make her is even more fun.
Mom will have her next 2 treatments on Mondays. Then she will go almost 2 weeks to get her back to Friday treatment days. Only 5 more treatments left. I am anxious for this therapy to be over so we can see all the ways God is answering prayer and healing her body. We already can see how much better she is feeling. God is so good. Please continue to pray for the miracle- we want to be cancer free! Thank you so much to everyone for being so faithful on our journey.
Monday, February 8, 2010
February 8, 2010
Well I thought the weekend couldn't get any better after sewing with mom and watching the Saints win the super bowl but it did. The only way possible too. We woke up to a suprising 5 inches of snow and no work or school. Another day home with my baby (my smile is enormus).
Ken got mom to the West Clinic before 8am. They gave her the shot Friday to help her bone marrow restore the white blood count, and it worked. YAY! Mom was up to 4.6 I think. That's the highest it has been since November and more than double what it was Friday. She got all 3 drugs and instead of keeping her at max dosage allowed by the FDA, which is common in clinical trial patients, they have brought her back to a regular dose. She will return tomorrow and they will give her another medication to continue to assist the bone marrow in production to keep her white blood count up. This will not only help her feel better and have more energy but also it will help her immune system so she will be less likely to be vulnerable to illnesses.
We are praising His name! He has been so good to us. He blanketed today with a beautiful snow. When I woke up and was suprised by it and I knew I could take my time today since I wasn't going any where.
My devotional this morning wasn't planned. As I jogged on my treadmill, looking out the window at the snow, I was just blown away that the snow was a total shock to me. I really needed the day too. It reminded me of the Isrealites wandering in the desert and God providing food. I don't know that it looked like snow falling as God provided the manna but I like to think it did. How shocked were they when they woke to a blanket of much needed bread? It was probably quite strange the first time it happened but God knew what they needed and supplied exactly that. I can honestly say that through the fear, anxiety and prayer God has suprised us with blanketing our daily lives in prayer and blessings. He has suprised us with information or material blessings frequently in the last 4 months that we didn't know we needed but turned the day around. What an awesome God.
Thank you all for the prayers. 5 more weeks of treatment to see all the ways God is bringing healing to mom's body!
Ken got mom to the West Clinic before 8am. They gave her the shot Friday to help her bone marrow restore the white blood count, and it worked. YAY! Mom was up to 4.6 I think. That's the highest it has been since November and more than double what it was Friday. She got all 3 drugs and instead of keeping her at max dosage allowed by the FDA, which is common in clinical trial patients, they have brought her back to a regular dose. She will return tomorrow and they will give her another medication to continue to assist the bone marrow in production to keep her white blood count up. This will not only help her feel better and have more energy but also it will help her immune system so she will be less likely to be vulnerable to illnesses.
We are praising His name! He has been so good to us. He blanketed today with a beautiful snow. When I woke up and was suprised by it and I knew I could take my time today since I wasn't going any where.
My devotional this morning wasn't planned. As I jogged on my treadmill, looking out the window at the snow, I was just blown away that the snow was a total shock to me. I really needed the day too. It reminded me of the Isrealites wandering in the desert and God providing food. I don't know that it looked like snow falling as God provided the manna but I like to think it did. How shocked were they when they woke to a blanket of much needed bread? It was probably quite strange the first time it happened but God knew what they needed and supplied exactly that. I can honestly say that through the fear, anxiety and prayer God has suprised us with blanketing our daily lives in prayer and blessings. He has suprised us with information or material blessings frequently in the last 4 months that we didn't know we needed but turned the day around. What an awesome God.
Thank you all for the prayers. 5 more weeks of treatment to see all the ways God is bringing healing to mom's body!
Sunday, February 7, 2010
February 7, 2010
We have had a very productive weekend. Mom and I sewed all day yesterday and some this afternoon. We have made 8 day gowns in two days and some burp cloths too. We have several more cut, ironed and pinned but the sewing machine has given out on us. Mom is going to take it to the shop so we can finish all our projects. We have had more fun though. I think mom thought she would never live to see the day that I would learn to sew. She and Erica have sewed together in the past but never me and mom. She told me she has never mass produced anything like we have made these day gowns. Haidyn is actually wearing one of hers now while GiGi rocks her by the snowman tree.
Mom's fingers have been numb from time to time while we sew but if that is the worst, we can live with it. We are praying that her white count is up tomorrow when she goes to the clinic. They gave her a shot on Friday so hopefully that will help the white count to rise. If it is high enough tomorrow they will go ahead and give her the full treatment. Please pray with us that she will remain healthy and that her white count will be high enough this week for treatment.
I have posted new pics. There is one of mom with her new do. Mom with "the team" at the West Clinic. One of our family, me and Todd with Haidyn. One of Haidyn dressed for Valentine's Day and one where she was snoozing on the way to GiGi's. I hope everyone enjoys. Oh, and I got one on there of mom with Haidyn- take note of the size of the smiles :) I need to do a better job of posting pics for everyone on here.
Thank you for the prayers. God is so good. We are kicking off the prayer campaign at church this week. I know this will have a whole new meaning for me after the last 4 months of prayer I have lived through. I thank God everyday for giving us such a direct and close means to speak to him and to allow him to speak to us. May God bless you all as he is blessing us.
Mom's fingers have been numb from time to time while we sew but if that is the worst, we can live with it. We are praying that her white count is up tomorrow when she goes to the clinic. They gave her a shot on Friday so hopefully that will help the white count to rise. If it is high enough tomorrow they will go ahead and give her the full treatment. Please pray with us that she will remain healthy and that her white count will be high enough this week for treatment.
I have posted new pics. There is one of mom with her new do. Mom with "the team" at the West Clinic. One of our family, me and Todd with Haidyn. One of Haidyn dressed for Valentine's Day and one where she was snoozing on the way to GiGi's. I hope everyone enjoys. Oh, and I got one on there of mom with Haidyn- take note of the size of the smiles :) I need to do a better job of posting pics for everyone on here.
Thank you for the prayers. God is so good. We are kicking off the prayer campaign at church this week. I know this will have a whole new meaning for me after the last 4 months of prayer I have lived through. I thank God everyday for giving us such a direct and close means to speak to him and to allow him to speak to us. May God bless you all as he is blessing us.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
February 4, 2010
What a rainy day, but that didn't stop us. I met mom for lunch today at one of our favorite places, Owen Brennan's. Mom went yesterday to one of her favorite places and got Haidyn about 15 new items of clothing, like the child needed a thing. I take that back. She did actually need a new coat because she outgrew hers and GiGi went there to get that for her. The other items just somehow snuck in there:)
We had the best time eating and chatting. Most of our conversation was about our little diva. Haidyn and I are going over on Saturday and mom and I are going to sew some outfits for Haidyn. I will do my best to not only take some new pics but also to post some new pics. We get to having so much fun its hard to remember but their MAC is so fast it will not take me long.
Mom has felt so good these last two weeks and has really just been showing off. Ken is still sick but he seems to be making the turn. I asked for prayers that mom would not get sick from him but not that he would get better. Sorry Ken! Please pray that he will continue to improve as well. Mom will have the 3 drug treatment tomorrow. It will be a long day for her complete with a doctor's visit but we're ready. I have faith her white blood count is where it should be and everything will go as planned. I'm looking forward to being with her Saturday before the medicine gets her extremely fatigued again.
Please comtinue to pray that God will heal her body. We're still praying for the miracle to be cancer free but we're so happy that she is improving all the same. God is so good always. He is loving. He is faithful. And he is the great healer. We don't always get what God has planned for us but he does reveal his blessings in powerful, life changing ways. Having faith in his plan is unexplainable and the peace is beyond comprehension once you give it to God. I still want to take control and "fix" this out of my fears but I quickly remember that's its not possible and too big to "fix" on my own. Please continue to pray for our faith that God is and will continue to support us through all your love and prayers as we run the last few laps of mom's first means of therapy.
We had the best time eating and chatting. Most of our conversation was about our little diva. Haidyn and I are going over on Saturday and mom and I are going to sew some outfits for Haidyn. I will do my best to not only take some new pics but also to post some new pics. We get to having so much fun its hard to remember but their MAC is so fast it will not take me long.
Mom has felt so good these last two weeks and has really just been showing off. Ken is still sick but he seems to be making the turn. I asked for prayers that mom would not get sick from him but not that he would get better. Sorry Ken! Please pray that he will continue to improve as well. Mom will have the 3 drug treatment tomorrow. It will be a long day for her complete with a doctor's visit but we're ready. I have faith her white blood count is where it should be and everything will go as planned. I'm looking forward to being with her Saturday before the medicine gets her extremely fatigued again.
Please comtinue to pray that God will heal her body. We're still praying for the miracle to be cancer free but we're so happy that she is improving all the same. God is so good always. He is loving. He is faithful. And he is the great healer. We don't always get what God has planned for us but he does reveal his blessings in powerful, life changing ways. Having faith in his plan is unexplainable and the peace is beyond comprehension once you give it to God. I still want to take control and "fix" this out of my fears but I quickly remember that's its not possible and too big to "fix" on my own. Please continue to pray for our faith that God is and will continue to support us through all your love and prayers as we run the last few laps of mom's first means of therapy.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
February 3, 2010
My dad came in town for a couple of nights so I have been out of touch somewhat the last two days. Mom told me she was able to work almost 8 hours yesterday. Monday night she even went to the grocery store for she and Ken.
Ken has been sick. I think it has just been more sinus infection stuff but still I am hoping that mom is able to stay healthy and on track for her treatment this Friday. Although it was disappointing that she wasn't able to receive her treatments as we expected last week, she has really benefited from having the additional time to recover. She has felt better and better every day. I have all the faith in the world that come Friday her white counts will be right where they need them to be in order for her to receive the full dosage of her 3 drugs.
God has been so good. In my devotional book today the thought was a reminder that God is with us always. I can honestly say, not for a single moment of our journey have I felt alone. There are several times in my life that looking back I can say that I felt alone, even in a room full of people. God has never allowed me the emptiness of being alone and I know that goes for our entire family. Few things are as scary as cancer but I think being afraid and alone has to come close to the fear that cancer brings. God has held us close and supported us through the prayer and lives of all that love us for the past 4 months. Thank you!
As we approach another Friday I ask that you all remember to thank God, most importantly, for all the healing he is providing through the West Clinic and the wonderful staff there. Secondly, please pray that mom will remain strong, healthy and her white count high to receive her full dosage of the drugs. And last, please pray that she will remain tolerable of the treatments and that although we know it will knock her down at first, she will recover quickly and get back to the days like last week and this week of feeling so good. I mean almost 8 hours at work yesterday! Can you believe it?!? God is so very good and is blessing us beyond our wildest imagination through the entire fight. Thank you so much for your love, support and prayers. We would not be where we are today with out you bringing us to the Lord on a regular basis.
Ken has been sick. I think it has just been more sinus infection stuff but still I am hoping that mom is able to stay healthy and on track for her treatment this Friday. Although it was disappointing that she wasn't able to receive her treatments as we expected last week, she has really benefited from having the additional time to recover. She has felt better and better every day. I have all the faith in the world that come Friday her white counts will be right where they need them to be in order for her to receive the full dosage of her 3 drugs.
God has been so good. In my devotional book today the thought was a reminder that God is with us always. I can honestly say, not for a single moment of our journey have I felt alone. There are several times in my life that looking back I can say that I felt alone, even in a room full of people. God has never allowed me the emptiness of being alone and I know that goes for our entire family. Few things are as scary as cancer but I think being afraid and alone has to come close to the fear that cancer brings. God has held us close and supported us through the prayer and lives of all that love us for the past 4 months. Thank you!
As we approach another Friday I ask that you all remember to thank God, most importantly, for all the healing he is providing through the West Clinic and the wonderful staff there. Secondly, please pray that mom will remain strong, healthy and her white count high to receive her full dosage of the drugs. And last, please pray that she will remain tolerable of the treatments and that although we know it will knock her down at first, she will recover quickly and get back to the days like last week and this week of feeling so good. I mean almost 8 hours at work yesterday! Can you believe it?!? God is so very good and is blessing us beyond our wildest imagination through the entire fight. Thank you so much for your love, support and prayers. We would not be where we are today with out you bringing us to the Lord on a regular basis.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
January 29, 2010
Mom looked so pretty this morning. She and Ken got to the clinic early as scheduled. This was the 3 drug day so treatment typically lasts till 5 or 6pm. The bad winter weather started about 7. By 8 the West Clinic and most of town was realizing that this winter preciptation wasn't playing and wasn't moving out quickly. The West Clinic decided to close at noon which meant there wasn't enough time for mom's treatment today:(
It was not a total loss. She had her meeting with Angela, the research nurse, and Dr. B. Mom's tumors have shrunk in size 25%! We are praising God! She will have another week to continue to bring her white blood count up before her next treatment and she's actually feeling really good.
Because they didn't do her treatment today, she will have an opportunity for her bone marrow to recover the white count so she will be stronger and feel better. This will also help keep her healthy in that her immunity will be stronger to fight off any germs she may come in contact with. As much as it is killing her, church, small group, showers and even other public places where she could be exposed she is avoiding. Its just not worth the risk. We want to keep her healthy. I was suprised she wanted to go in Costco Tuesday night when she met but she didn't actually have contact with anyone other than me and Haidyn. She was bragging on herself today for that too.
So although she didn't get treatment she had the doctor appointment and got to show me around the clinic. She and Ken just floated around there like they owned the place, taking back halls and greeting everyone they came to. The treatment rooms were so nice. There were even survivors/volunteers there this morning with all the yucky weather. Mom had Ken to take a picture of her and the "team" (Dr. B and Angela). I was glad she was able to get that but then again what part of our lives isn't photo documented? Mom even had Ken take pictures of my braces being adjusted and my ortho "team"- haha. I hope to get a copy electronically of the C-team so I can post it for everyone.
Thank you so much for the prayers and countless acts of love and support. We feel so blessed and continue to receive far more than we deserve. God truly has blessed America like no place else to provide us the medical options we have, should we ever need them. Please keep mom in prayer this week as she continues to bring her counts up and praising God for all he has done. Like Ken put on his FB yesterday- faith isn't believing God can, its knowing He will and He is!
It was not a total loss. She had her meeting with Angela, the research nurse, and Dr. B. Mom's tumors have shrunk in size 25%! We are praising God! She will have another week to continue to bring her white blood count up before her next treatment and she's actually feeling really good.
Because they didn't do her treatment today, she will have an opportunity for her bone marrow to recover the white count so she will be stronger and feel better. This will also help keep her healthy in that her immunity will be stronger to fight off any germs she may come in contact with. As much as it is killing her, church, small group, showers and even other public places where she could be exposed she is avoiding. Its just not worth the risk. We want to keep her healthy. I was suprised she wanted to go in Costco Tuesday night when she met but she didn't actually have contact with anyone other than me and Haidyn. She was bragging on herself today for that too.
So although she didn't get treatment she had the doctor appointment and got to show me around the clinic. She and Ken just floated around there like they owned the place, taking back halls and greeting everyone they came to. The treatment rooms were so nice. There were even survivors/volunteers there this morning with all the yucky weather. Mom had Ken to take a picture of her and the "team" (Dr. B and Angela). I was glad she was able to get that but then again what part of our lives isn't photo documented? Mom even had Ken take pictures of my braces being adjusted and my ortho "team"- haha. I hope to get a copy electronically of the C-team so I can post it for everyone.
Thank you so much for the prayers and countless acts of love and support. We feel so blessed and continue to receive far more than we deserve. God truly has blessed America like no place else to provide us the medical options we have, should we ever need them. Please keep mom in prayer this week as she continues to bring her counts up and praising God for all he has done. Like Ken put on his FB yesterday- faith isn't believing God can, its knowing He will and He is!
Thursday, January 28, 2010
January 28, 2010
Tomorrow is the big day. We are praying that mom's blood test indicate her white blood count will be high enough for her to receive the full dosage of all 3 drugs. Also, we are praying that the weather will hold out so her treatment is not delayed. We are all looking forward to going with mom in the morning to meet with Dr. B and hear the good news.
I can't say enough about how proud I am of my mom. She has not complained, stopped to feel sorry for herself or even considered anything other than healing. She is so optomistic and has faith in God's healing powers and the medical assistance she has received. If you didn't know mom, I don't think you would know she is undergoing chemo. She has learned her limits and gotten as comfortable as we can expect her to with her slower lifestyle. She takes her rest periods when she feels she is pushing it. Also, although she is going to work everyday but treatment days she knows when to take her time and not rush into the office first thing in the morning. Working! I can honestly say that 3.5 months ago I would not have thought she would be working everyday.
As we are all praying and looking forward to tomorrow to celebrate with mom, we are also excited about celebrating Haidyn's 5 month birthday. I don't think any of us can believe that she is already 5 months old. I don't think mom even remembers what life was like without her best friend:) Life is good and God is blessing us everyday with struggles and victories.
Thank you all so much for continuing to support our family as we fight mom's cancer. We are blessed in so many ways but knowing that there are so many praying with us is humbling and we know God hears and answers our prayers. I will keep you all updated once we learn more tomorrow.
I can't say enough about how proud I am of my mom. She has not complained, stopped to feel sorry for herself or even considered anything other than healing. She is so optomistic and has faith in God's healing powers and the medical assistance she has received. If you didn't know mom, I don't think you would know she is undergoing chemo. She has learned her limits and gotten as comfortable as we can expect her to with her slower lifestyle. She takes her rest periods when she feels she is pushing it. Also, although she is going to work everyday but treatment days she knows when to take her time and not rush into the office first thing in the morning. Working! I can honestly say that 3.5 months ago I would not have thought she would be working everyday.
As we are all praying and looking forward to tomorrow to celebrate with mom, we are also excited about celebrating Haidyn's 5 month birthday. I don't think any of us can believe that she is already 5 months old. I don't think mom even remembers what life was like without her best friend:) Life is good and God is blessing us everyday with struggles and victories.
Thank you all so much for continuing to support our family as we fight mom's cancer. We are blessed in so many ways but knowing that there are so many praying with us is humbling and we know God hears and answers our prayers. I will keep you all updated once we learn more tomorrow.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
January 26, 2010
Today was a great day. Mom texted me a little before two today and told me to call her for the news. Her research nurse had emailed her some preliminary information about the CT scan that she had Monday morning. She said that from what they could tell at this preliminary stage that her tumors have shrunk 25%. That is awesome news. The drugs are working and mom is feeling great. We are going to go with mom and Ken Friday morning to hear the full work up, again weather permitting!
We are having the craziest weather like the rest of the world. One day it is 60 then within 72 hours our high is in the 20's. They are calling for freezing rain overnight Thursday/Friday morning. Please pray that the worst of the weather will hit above us and not hender mom's appt and chemo treatment.
We had plans to meet tonight and get my tires rotated. She was there with bells on, breaking her neck to see Haidyn's little brown eyes and big smile. She told me she has felt so good the last two days. She thought she overdid it a little yesterday but after a good long rest period she was ready to go. Then after a good night's sleep she felt even better today. The more she is able to move around, the more encouraged her white blood count is encouraged to increase. I don't want her to ever overdo it but if there were a week I would want her to be most active its this week. Thank you for remembering to pray that her white blood count continue to come up as we approach Friday, treatment day. We want her to be able to receive the full dose of all 3 drugs. Her research nurse seem to have confidence that mom could do it. I can't say enough about the encouragement and supportive optimism all the staff and volunteers at the West Clinic have been not only to our family but also hundreds and thousands of families in our local area and beyond. They are saving lives with big hearts and even bigger smiles. We love that place!
So we've dealt with the big C for over 90 days now. Wow, how God has worked overtime in our lives the last 3 months is amazing. We have experienced about every extreme emotion and continued to be blessed with each step of the way. Cancer is scary. Cancer will effect most of us either by attacking our own body or someone we know. I am so thankful to live in a country where research is supported, drugs are being discover, we have the freedom of religion to pray to our healing Lord and lives are being saved both physically and spiritually every day. I want Christianity to make a come back in 2010 and save as many lives as modern medicine, research drugs and surgery. I want Christianity to take a chapter from Cancer's book and attack the souls of most, if not all (is that possible?), and touch the lives of those who haven't yet learned. Then more of the world would experience times as this family has in the last 3 months- peace that passes all understanding. God is in control. We are following his almight lead and he is blessing us because of your prayers. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
We are having the craziest weather like the rest of the world. One day it is 60 then within 72 hours our high is in the 20's. They are calling for freezing rain overnight Thursday/Friday morning. Please pray that the worst of the weather will hit above us and not hender mom's appt and chemo treatment.
We had plans to meet tonight and get my tires rotated. She was there with bells on, breaking her neck to see Haidyn's little brown eyes and big smile. She told me she has felt so good the last two days. She thought she overdid it a little yesterday but after a good long rest period she was ready to go. Then after a good night's sleep she felt even better today. The more she is able to move around, the more encouraged her white blood count is encouraged to increase. I don't want her to ever overdo it but if there were a week I would want her to be most active its this week. Thank you for remembering to pray that her white blood count continue to come up as we approach Friday, treatment day. We want her to be able to receive the full dose of all 3 drugs. Her research nurse seem to have confidence that mom could do it. I can't say enough about the encouragement and supportive optimism all the staff and volunteers at the West Clinic have been not only to our family but also hundreds and thousands of families in our local area and beyond. They are saving lives with big hearts and even bigger smiles. We love that place!
So we've dealt with the big C for over 90 days now. Wow, how God has worked overtime in our lives the last 3 months is amazing. We have experienced about every extreme emotion and continued to be blessed with each step of the way. Cancer is scary. Cancer will effect most of us either by attacking our own body or someone we know. I am so thankful to live in a country where research is supported, drugs are being discover, we have the freedom of religion to pray to our healing Lord and lives are being saved both physically and spiritually every day. I want Christianity to make a come back in 2010 and save as many lives as modern medicine, research drugs and surgery. I want Christianity to take a chapter from Cancer's book and attack the souls of most, if not all (is that possible?), and touch the lives of those who haven't yet learned. Then more of the world would experience times as this family has in the last 3 months- peace that passes all understanding. God is in control. We are following his almight lead and he is blessing us because of your prayers. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
Thursday, January 21, 2010
January 21, 2010
What a busy week! Mom has been pretty fatigued this week. I have called her about every other afternoon to check in on her and unfortunately I have woken her from her rest period. The good thing is, I'm not so sure she even remembered it once we got off the phone.
Monday Haidyn made mom's day by smiling super big at her when she recognized her GiGi. Tuesday night we went and had dinner with her at her house. Last night we all met out for dinner to celebrate my birthday. And tonight we didn't see her because she needs to rest up for her treatment tomorrow. Her white count is low- she can tell by her tired she has been but this is to be expected. Its that time again to start really praying for her white count to start coming back up so that next week she can receive the full dose of the chemo drugs. God has been so good to answer this prayer and without fail mom's white count is always where it should be on the 3 drug chemo days for her to receive her full dose. Praise God!
Next week is her CTscan and consult with Dr B. Next week will be extremely busy at work for me but you can bet I will be with her Wednesday morning waiting to hear the good news. Its such a good feeling to anxiously anticipate an oncology consult because you know the information will be positive. I can't imagine if our reality were not as optomistic. Thankfully we have put our trust in the Lord since before day one of our cancer journey and he has continued to give us all peace and mom's body healing. What an awesome God we serve.
Again, thank you, thank you, thank you for your continued acts of love, cards, emails, comments, text messages, meals, phone calls and PRAYERS. It would be hard to face this journey without all those who are with us. Without your love, encouragement and support this road truly could have seemed hopeless but it has been as overwhelming to see the endless support as it has been to face the fears of cancer. God tells us not to be scared and that he protects us. Everyday, without fail, He has presented constant reminders of his love and protection through your actions and lives. Thank you for trusting in God's healing powers, love for His children and protection for those who dare to give him their worries. He is always good!
Monday Haidyn made mom's day by smiling super big at her when she recognized her GiGi. Tuesday night we went and had dinner with her at her house. Last night we all met out for dinner to celebrate my birthday. And tonight we didn't see her because she needs to rest up for her treatment tomorrow. Her white count is low- she can tell by her tired she has been but this is to be expected. Its that time again to start really praying for her white count to start coming back up so that next week she can receive the full dose of the chemo drugs. God has been so good to answer this prayer and without fail mom's white count is always where it should be on the 3 drug chemo days for her to receive her full dose. Praise God!
Next week is her CTscan and consult with Dr B. Next week will be extremely busy at work for me but you can bet I will be with her Wednesday morning waiting to hear the good news. Its such a good feeling to anxiously anticipate an oncology consult because you know the information will be positive. I can't imagine if our reality were not as optomistic. Thankfully we have put our trust in the Lord since before day one of our cancer journey and he has continued to give us all peace and mom's body healing. What an awesome God we serve.
Again, thank you, thank you, thank you for your continued acts of love, cards, emails, comments, text messages, meals, phone calls and PRAYERS. It would be hard to face this journey without all those who are with us. Without your love, encouragement and support this road truly could have seemed hopeless but it has been as overwhelming to see the endless support as it has been to face the fears of cancer. God tells us not to be scared and that he protects us. Everyday, without fail, He has presented constant reminders of his love and protection through your actions and lives. Thank you for trusting in God's healing powers, love for His children and protection for those who dare to give him their worries. He is always good!
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
January 19, 2010
Yesterday mom was very tired but still made through her day at work. I'm certainly glad the chemo is doing what it is suppose to do but its tough seeing your energetic mama so run down. But like I have said before- we can handle fatigue much better than pain and illness. I'm glad Haidyn isn't any more active than she is at this point or it would be hard for mom to enjoy her as much.
Mom has spent so much time restoring mine and Erica's clothes from when we were a baby for HR. Sunday she wore one of my dresses and today she wore one of our sweater suits with a bonnet. I can't wait to see mom tonight and for her to see Haidyn in my outfit.
Thank you all for your continued prayers, delivered meals, cards, emails and other acts of love. I had several at church Sunday request new pics since its been so long since they've seen mom. I want to do that. Mom is still amazed at the cards she is receiving and the repeat cards from so many. They mean so much to her. She has really enjoyed reconnecting with so many from the past that she loves and has missed over the years. God is so good! We are continuing to count our blessings and naming you all at the top of the list!
Mom has spent so much time restoring mine and Erica's clothes from when we were a baby for HR. Sunday she wore one of my dresses and today she wore one of our sweater suits with a bonnet. I can't wait to see mom tonight and for her to see Haidyn in my outfit.
Thank you all for your continued prayers, delivered meals, cards, emails and other acts of love. I had several at church Sunday request new pics since its been so long since they've seen mom. I want to do that. Mom is still amazed at the cards she is receiving and the repeat cards from so many. They mean so much to her. She has really enjoyed reconnecting with so many from the past that she loves and has missed over the years. God is so good! We are continuing to count our blessings and naming you all at the top of the list!
Sunday, January 17, 2010
January 16, 2010
Mom had her erbitux treatment Friday. Her white count was down but they full expected that to happen. She was however able to make it through the treatment just fine. She is extremely tired. I think we can attribute this to her white count being so low and to the fact that she is working 5-6 hrs a day. I am so proud of my mom but she is really leading the way in team spirit. We talked Wednesday about her work and she knows how much her office depends on her for success and that leads her into the office at times she might rather be home.
Thank you for all your prayers. We are so blessed!
Thank you for all your prayers. We are so blessed!
Monday, January 11, 2010
January 11, 2010
Today mom was able to go to work! I can't believe it. I called her a little before 2 to check on her. She hadn't been home long and said she was really tired. She admitted she may have overdone it today but she got a lot done. I am so impressed with her strength and determination to carry on with life. She got a good long nap and I called her when I got home to check on her again. I told her Haidyn was enjoying driving around in her car we borrowed from GiGi and her johnny jump up. Mom wants her to jump so bad but she is just too little.
Thank you so much for your prayers. Her white count was high enough for the full dose of chemo, she has only been tired with this treatment and she was strong enough to go to work today. God is strengthening us and we are getting anxious for the week of the 25th when we have more news to celebrate.
Thank you so much for your prayers. Her white count was high enough for the full dose of chemo, she has only been tired with this treatment and she was strong enough to go to work today. God is strengthening us and we are getting anxious for the week of the 25th when we have more news to celebrate.
Saturday, January 9, 2010
January 9, 2010
Well we're counting our blessings and loosing count again! The weather held out and did not interupt treatment yesterday. When they tested the white blood count it had come up enough from the previous Wednesday treatment for mom to receive the full dose of the 2 chemo drugs and the Erbitux.
Part of the clinical trial, which we were unaware of, is that at the half way mark she had an appt with her doctor to evaluate her again. She said that when Dr.B listened to her breathing, again with a big grin on her face she patted mom on the back and said, "show off!" I absolutely love it! With waiting to see the doctor, the evaluation and administration of all 3 drugs it made for an incredibly long day for mom. She was at West for 9 hours I think she said. She really wanted Haidyn to come spend the night last night with her and I hated to disappoint her but I felt like GiGi needed her rest and it was too stinkin' cold for us to have enjoyed being anywhere other than at home by the fireplace.
For the next few days, as to be expected, mom will feel more fatigued and have more frequent rest periods. I am so proud that it seems she has made peace and has settled into her slower pace and enjoying the quiet time with Ken, reading and taking cat naps when she isn't at work or up and about the house showing off:) Haidyn and I plan to go by and see her today so she can get her HR dose and I can get my own hugs and kisses if mom has any left after she has shower Haidyn with sugar.
Mom forwarded me an email that she sent to some close friends from out of town last night updating them. She attached beautiful pictures of herself in her newest wig. I LOVE this do. I will try and post some of them on the blog for ev everyone. I'm going to have to talk to James, her hair dresser, when she returns because he has to help mom achieve this young spunky do with her own hair when it grows back in. Maybe we can even talk her into the highlights (mom, you didn't see that last part-hehe). She was so possitive in the email and I know that helps all of us remain positive as her supporters as well. Other than my good friend Anna who survived breast cancer a few years back at 27, I can't think of another person who comes close enough to shake a stick at mom's optimism and cheer in the face of such a fearful time. I am truly blessed to have her as my mom, best friend, example and grandmother to my own baby.
Her next CT scan to check markers and evaluate progress with a doctors visit will be around January 25th she said. I can think of no better be-lated birthday gift than to receive more good news about my best friend and mother. With your prayers, love, encouragement and unending support we are walking joyfully through this journey with mom holding close and trusting always in the hand of God. He has been SO good! I don't know if mom will work everyday this week or not since she has the 3 drugs yesterday but being able to get out of the house, be in the company of those she truly enjoys and who uplift her at her office, being productive with a since of purpose and acomplishment as well as just feeling "normal", as she puts it, have been some of the best medicine and therapy possible. They just can't prescribe confidence and joy and that is what she is getting daily.
I can't wait to see her today, give her hugs and tell her how proud I am of her once again and give her some old pics I found when going through some stuff last night. One I know she and Ken both will get a kick out is of Ken sitting on the couch in our first home in Memphis with his first laptop. He had some games on it, for those of you who don't know Ken is a secret gamer, and he played with that laptop non-stop. Mom and I were forever interrupting him and complaining about his gaming time because we couldn't get any attention. One night he closed that laptop and said to us, "I've never seen two women so jealous of a laptop!" Oh, the memories. I'm so proud and glad that I lived at home, and they gladly allowed me to (most days:), till I graduated from college. The memories of our home have made who I am and are priceless to all 3 of us. Even the not-so-pleasant memories-haha. God has blessed me with the foundation of that home to guide me and Todd as we establish our family values in our home on our new journey of parenthood.
I can't tell you all thank you enough!!! Without a doubt we would not be where we are today without the network literally across the nation of our friends, family and prayer warriors who are lifting us up countless times a day to the "great physician". He is healing, blessing and strengthening not just mom but all of us. I get teary when I think about the fact my sister isn't closer to us geographically, especially now, but she is with us more everyday than ever before. Miles do not seperate the closeness we are experiencing as we all are looking to the Lord and trusting in His plan. He is so good. I can't wait for Erica and Michael to be with us again and see how strong mom is from when they saw her at Thanksgiving. It will be some months yet, I'm sure, so I can't imagine how much better mom will be by then, oh and mom's best friend Haidyn Rae will be stronger and more lively too. I wish everyone could see mom with "her baby", as she refers to Haidyn. You would never recognize a thing wrong with her when that smile comes over her face at the sight of our little angel.
God is good friends! He is protecting us and strengthening us. He truly know just what we need to make it here on earth till we can all be together in heaven. What a day of rejoicing that will be when we get there but I am thanking him for the days here on earth and can't help but rejoice for the blessings he provides daily.
Part of the clinical trial, which we were unaware of, is that at the half way mark she had an appt with her doctor to evaluate her again. She said that when Dr.B listened to her breathing, again with a big grin on her face she patted mom on the back and said, "show off!" I absolutely love it! With waiting to see the doctor, the evaluation and administration of all 3 drugs it made for an incredibly long day for mom. She was at West for 9 hours I think she said. She really wanted Haidyn to come spend the night last night with her and I hated to disappoint her but I felt like GiGi needed her rest and it was too stinkin' cold for us to have enjoyed being anywhere other than at home by the fireplace.
For the next few days, as to be expected, mom will feel more fatigued and have more frequent rest periods. I am so proud that it seems she has made peace and has settled into her slower pace and enjoying the quiet time with Ken, reading and taking cat naps when she isn't at work or up and about the house showing off:) Haidyn and I plan to go by and see her today so she can get her HR dose and I can get my own hugs and kisses if mom has any left after she has shower Haidyn with sugar.
Mom forwarded me an email that she sent to some close friends from out of town last night updating them. She attached beautiful pictures of herself in her newest wig. I LOVE this do. I will try and post some of them on the blog for ev everyone. I'm going to have to talk to James, her hair dresser, when she returns because he has to help mom achieve this young spunky do with her own hair when it grows back in. Maybe we can even talk her into the highlights (mom, you didn't see that last part-hehe). She was so possitive in the email and I know that helps all of us remain positive as her supporters as well. Other than my good friend Anna who survived breast cancer a few years back at 27, I can't think of another person who comes close enough to shake a stick at mom's optimism and cheer in the face of such a fearful time. I am truly blessed to have her as my mom, best friend, example and grandmother to my own baby.
Her next CT scan to check markers and evaluate progress with a doctors visit will be around January 25th she said. I can think of no better be-lated birthday gift than to receive more good news about my best friend and mother. With your prayers, love, encouragement and unending support we are walking joyfully through this journey with mom holding close and trusting always in the hand of God. He has been SO good! I don't know if mom will work everyday this week or not since she has the 3 drugs yesterday but being able to get out of the house, be in the company of those she truly enjoys and who uplift her at her office, being productive with a since of purpose and acomplishment as well as just feeling "normal", as she puts it, have been some of the best medicine and therapy possible. They just can't prescribe confidence and joy and that is what she is getting daily.
I can't wait to see her today, give her hugs and tell her how proud I am of her once again and give her some old pics I found when going through some stuff last night. One I know she and Ken both will get a kick out is of Ken sitting on the couch in our first home in Memphis with his first laptop. He had some games on it, for those of you who don't know Ken is a secret gamer, and he played with that laptop non-stop. Mom and I were forever interrupting him and complaining about his gaming time because we couldn't get any attention. One night he closed that laptop and said to us, "I've never seen two women so jealous of a laptop!" Oh, the memories. I'm so proud and glad that I lived at home, and they gladly allowed me to (most days:), till I graduated from college. The memories of our home have made who I am and are priceless to all 3 of us. Even the not-so-pleasant memories-haha. God has blessed me with the foundation of that home to guide me and Todd as we establish our family values in our home on our new journey of parenthood.
I can't tell you all thank you enough!!! Without a doubt we would not be where we are today without the network literally across the nation of our friends, family and prayer warriors who are lifting us up countless times a day to the "great physician". He is healing, blessing and strengthening not just mom but all of us. I get teary when I think about the fact my sister isn't closer to us geographically, especially now, but she is with us more everyday than ever before. Miles do not seperate the closeness we are experiencing as we all are looking to the Lord and trusting in His plan. He is so good. I can't wait for Erica and Michael to be with us again and see how strong mom is from when they saw her at Thanksgiving. It will be some months yet, I'm sure, so I can't imagine how much better mom will be by then, oh and mom's best friend Haidyn Rae will be stronger and more lively too. I wish everyone could see mom with "her baby", as she refers to Haidyn. You would never recognize a thing wrong with her when that smile comes over her face at the sight of our little angel.
God is good friends! He is protecting us and strengthening us. He truly know just what we need to make it here on earth till we can all be together in heaven. What a day of rejoicing that will be when we get there but I am thanking him for the days here on earth and can't help but rejoice for the blessings he provides daily.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
January 6, 2010
The last two days have been so exciting and fun. Yesterday mom went to work then home for her nap. She met our babysitter at 2:30 to pick up Haidyn. She warmed her carseat for Haidyn to the point that she said it was steaming; and she thinks Haidyn isn't spoiled rotten! We met at Haidyn's doctor's office for her 4 month checkup and shots. I thought I would appreciate having mom there to support me when they administered the shots but mom needed more support from me-haha.
Haidyn is 24" long and 10lbs 11ozs. Yay, we're finally in double digits! She is healthy and happy and we are all so proud. We feel very blessed to have a good family friend and Christian doctor for Haidyn. Dr Bubba is the best. He asked mom how she was doing specifically and praised how well she looks. He also shared he has been praying for all of us. Praise God! I can't imagine where we would be without the countless prayers. Mom was so excited to get to be a part of the doctor visit. It was just like the day back in the summer when she got to view the ultrasound with us.
Tonight after I picked up Haidyn I took some turkey meat over to mom's for dinner and she had veggies. We ate dinner and intended on going to bible class but Haidyn got fussy and needed to eat about 6:45 so we didn't make it. Grandaddy fed her a bottle while mom and I ate dinner ourselves. Mom has a little walker for Haidyn and we all got excited to see her scoot her way over to the TV so she could watch too. I hate to say it but my baby loves TV. After she played a while mom took her in her room and they took a brief rest period together while I uploaded Christmas pics on their MAC. They really are faster than PC's, by the way;)
Mom has one more day of work tmrw, snow or shine, then the 3 drug treatment on Friday. I always dread that for her because she has to get there so early and it takes all day but she is very positive about it. We know now how effective these drugs are being on the tumors and how blessed we are that mom's side effects are minimal so that makes it better. I still wish I could take the discomfort away but that's part of the process. This will be the 4th 3 drug treatment so we will be getting another CTscan in a couple of weeks to check her markers again. Her white count is still down so please pray that she will have high enough readings for them to continue to administer the full amount of Friday. We have all managed to stay healthy so spending time with her has not been restricted. I had her sit in the car with Haidyn at the doctor's office instead of the waiting room so neither one of them would be exposed to sick children until we were called back to our own room yesterday.
They are calling for snow here tmrw. We haven't been above freezing much in the last week so its very possible. I don't mind the snow so much for tmrw however I don't want it to interfer with her treatment schedule on Friday.
Mom and Ken had food delivered last night by another couple at church. I can't tell you how helpful that is for them both physically and emotionally. To see the unending acts of love and support over the past few months has humbled us all. I wish everyone only knew how appreciative we truly are for everything. Thank you for your prayers; specifically for your prayers as we near Friday's treatment. God is always good and he is blessing us in ways we never dreamed of thanks to all your prayers and mom's faith in the Lord's healing powers. I will keep you all posted:)
Haidyn is 24" long and 10lbs 11ozs. Yay, we're finally in double digits! She is healthy and happy and we are all so proud. We feel very blessed to have a good family friend and Christian doctor for Haidyn. Dr Bubba is the best. He asked mom how she was doing specifically and praised how well she looks. He also shared he has been praying for all of us. Praise God! I can't imagine where we would be without the countless prayers. Mom was so excited to get to be a part of the doctor visit. It was just like the day back in the summer when she got to view the ultrasound with us.
Tonight after I picked up Haidyn I took some turkey meat over to mom's for dinner and she had veggies. We ate dinner and intended on going to bible class but Haidyn got fussy and needed to eat about 6:45 so we didn't make it. Grandaddy fed her a bottle while mom and I ate dinner ourselves. Mom has a little walker for Haidyn and we all got excited to see her scoot her way over to the TV so she could watch too. I hate to say it but my baby loves TV. After she played a while mom took her in her room and they took a brief rest period together while I uploaded Christmas pics on their MAC. They really are faster than PC's, by the way;)
Mom has one more day of work tmrw, snow or shine, then the 3 drug treatment on Friday. I always dread that for her because she has to get there so early and it takes all day but she is very positive about it. We know now how effective these drugs are being on the tumors and how blessed we are that mom's side effects are minimal so that makes it better. I still wish I could take the discomfort away but that's part of the process. This will be the 4th 3 drug treatment so we will be getting another CTscan in a couple of weeks to check her markers again. Her white count is still down so please pray that she will have high enough readings for them to continue to administer the full amount of Friday. We have all managed to stay healthy so spending time with her has not been restricted. I had her sit in the car with Haidyn at the doctor's office instead of the waiting room so neither one of them would be exposed to sick children until we were called back to our own room yesterday.
They are calling for snow here tmrw. We haven't been above freezing much in the last week so its very possible. I don't mind the snow so much for tmrw however I don't want it to interfer with her treatment schedule on Friday.
Mom and Ken had food delivered last night by another couple at church. I can't tell you how helpful that is for them both physically and emotionally. To see the unending acts of love and support over the past few months has humbled us all. I wish everyone only knew how appreciative we truly are for everything. Thank you for your prayers; specifically for your prayers as we near Friday's treatment. God is always good and he is blessing us in ways we never dreamed of thanks to all your prayers and mom's faith in the Lord's healing powers. I will keep you all posted:)
Monday, January 4, 2010
January 4, 2010
Well it has been a very busy week. Happy New Year to everyone. Todd, Haidyn, the dogs and I all went to Knoxville for the New Year. Thankfully we all made it back safely after a good trip. We went to mom's yesterday afternoon for a little while to visit and take them some stuff. Ken has just about packed up all of Christmas and is beginning to get out all the snowmen; and just in time since I think we may get snow this week!
Haidyn missed the Christmas lights but was so happy to see her GiGi and Grandaddy. Now reality will begin to set in for us all as we find our routine for 2010. Mom will move back to her Friday treatments. She saw her friend again from Huntington last Wednesday during her treatment. She gets treatments on Wednesdays so she and mom exchanged phone numbers so they can stay in touch. I hope they will be able to see each other more often but not necisarily while they have treatments.
Mom continues to have the best attitude. At times the reality hits her all over again that she has cancer- its still a shock no matter how many times you say it or think about it. She is adjusting to the new normal but we are looking forward to the days when it is more normal than even this. She is working just about everyday still. She was even in there on New Years Eve getting her stuff done to help close the books for 2009. I am amazed daily and her grace and beauty. She never complains but does get teary from time to time. I think the tears are as much from lingering fears as they are thanksgiving for all our blessings.
Being with our family has been good for us all. I thank God daily I was born into a strong believing Christian family who love, support, encourage and pray for us all to make it to heaven to be together eternally. I feel even more blessed that my family took in the man I loved more than anything else and was the example of Christ to him and by their example he too gave his life to Christ and lives everyday with the goal of heaven for his family. He is quick to remind me when I step out of line of what my mom would do. Although it stings to be reminded I haven't said or done the right thing its so rewarding to burst with pride when I realize my mom's example not just to me and Todd but to everyone. I don't think she will ever inderstand the influence she and Ken alone had on Todd becoming a Christian.
2010 will be the best year yet. We are growing spiritually as a family closer to God daily. We pray together more, love a little deeper, hug a little longer and smile bigger than ever as we know how blessed our lives have been in 2009. Thank you so much for continuing to love, support and encourage us through prayers. To God be the glory!
Haidyn missed the Christmas lights but was so happy to see her GiGi and Grandaddy. Now reality will begin to set in for us all as we find our routine for 2010. Mom will move back to her Friday treatments. She saw her friend again from Huntington last Wednesday during her treatment. She gets treatments on Wednesdays so she and mom exchanged phone numbers so they can stay in touch. I hope they will be able to see each other more often but not necisarily while they have treatments.
Mom continues to have the best attitude. At times the reality hits her all over again that she has cancer- its still a shock no matter how many times you say it or think about it. She is adjusting to the new normal but we are looking forward to the days when it is more normal than even this. She is working just about everyday still. She was even in there on New Years Eve getting her stuff done to help close the books for 2009. I am amazed daily and her grace and beauty. She never complains but does get teary from time to time. I think the tears are as much from lingering fears as they are thanksgiving for all our blessings.
Being with our family has been good for us all. I thank God daily I was born into a strong believing Christian family who love, support, encourage and pray for us all to make it to heaven to be together eternally. I feel even more blessed that my family took in the man I loved more than anything else and was the example of Christ to him and by their example he too gave his life to Christ and lives everyday with the goal of heaven for his family. He is quick to remind me when I step out of line of what my mom would do. Although it stings to be reminded I haven't said or done the right thing its so rewarding to burst with pride when I realize my mom's example not just to me and Todd but to everyone. I don't think she will ever inderstand the influence she and Ken alone had on Todd becoming a Christian.
2010 will be the best year yet. We are growing spiritually as a family closer to God daily. We pray together more, love a little deeper, hug a little longer and smile bigger than ever as we know how blessed our lives have been in 2009. Thank you so much for continuing to love, support and encourage us through prayers. To God be the glory!
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