Hi!  I know it's been a long time but I'm back.  I had chemo on Christmas Eve day, but it didn't affect my Christmas at all.  Our family was all together and we all wrote affirmations about each person that they keep and read whenever they want.  Christmas morning I went to Kelsey's dad's house and all his family was there and Kelsey opened her presents and we had breakfast, then Kelsey and I went to my sister's house where my family was again and we had a great dinner and played cards.  Saturday I was a little tired and I stayed in my PJ's all day and watched TV (football--my favorite).

I saw the Physician's asst. a couple weeks ago and she said, "So we took you off Taxol and we'll keep you off until Feb. when you have your next Pet scan, then we might put you back on it."  That was horrible for me to hear, because my hair is just starting to grow back, then it will come out again, so that means I better start liking my wig more.  My neuropathy is better but still there.  We will talk to the dr. at our next visit so I'll see what he has to say.  I have to realize that I have a chronic illness and I may have to be put on chemo throughout my life, but I pray the Lord heals me and I don't have to be on chemo much longer.

I went to phys. therapy today and my leg is getting stronger, I have to just keep doing my strengthening exercises.  My leg brace also came in today so I have an appt. tomorrow to get that fitted.  Please don't laugh when I'm wearing work clothes and Tennis Shoes--YIKES!

I hope all of you enjoyed Christmas as much as I did and I wish all of you a very healthy, prosperous and blessed 2010!!!!!  Lots of love and appreciation to all my blog friends and family! 

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Well, I had chemo today and the doctor took me off the Taxol, so I was there for less time.  Some of the other benefits to not having Taxol is that I only have chemo twice a month instead of three times (none next week), which also means I don't have to have my blood drawn on the weeks I don't have chemo--YEA--and maybe my hair will start growing in and my neuropathy will go away.  I developed an infection under one of my fingernails this week (and infections are serious when you're undergoing chemo), so I am taking antibiotics to try to get rid of that.

I got fitted for my leg brace last Friday but it's not ready yet.  When I do get it, I'm going to have to wear tennis shoes with it, even with my work clothes--what a fashion statement!  I am still going to physical therapy and hope to be walking on my own by the end of January.

Kelsey planned a "bake day" for all the ladies in our family last Sat. so with all those hands, I got a lot of baked goods but didn't have to do all the work--it was a lot of fun!

I hope you're all enjoying this joyous season as much as I am.  I wish you peace and God's blessings!!!

I'M BACK.......

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving because we do have so much to be thankful for!  I am very blessed that the Lord is using this year's cancer diagnosis as a trial in my life, but is healing me in the whole process.  

I enjoyed a nice Thanksgiving with my family! While we were playing a card game (hand & foot), my nephew went online and started doing my Christmas shopping for me, which got me in the shopping mood.  We went to the mall late that night and I was pushed in my wheelchair. I was pooped out when we got home but I'm almost done with my shopping.  

Friday I saw my doctor again and we were discussing taking me off the Taxol (which is the part of the chemo that gives me the neuropathy and makes my hair fall out--or not grow back.  My neuropathy got really bad again over the weekend and I called his office on Monday and told him I would like to go off Taxol by my next chemo which is Dec. 10th.  I will still continue with the Avastin.

On Sunday, my church friends came over and decorated with Kelsey and put up my tree, hooked up my new computer modem, set up my fountain that had fallen down in an earthquake, and did some weeding.  Kelsey and her boyfriend put up all my outside decorations and lights.  What a blessing to have so much done while I sit and supervise.  I feel totally blessed to have all the terrific help!  My sister pre-cooked a few meals so that has been nice to be able to heat them up when I come home from work tired--I can't believe all the love I receive on a regular basis.  I AM TRULY THANKFUL FOR EACH OF YOU!!!!!

I had PT this morning and she worked me out good.  I still have to do my exercises at home too.  On Friday this week I will get fitted for a brace that will help me to not fall down when my leg decides to buckle on me.  I don't have chemo this week--YEA!!!!

I hope you all have a blessed week!

Friday, Nov. 20, 2009

Well, I went to see the orthopedic doctor for my crazy leg on Monday and discovered the I have lost 75% of muscle mass in my right leg (which is the one that had the femur radiated, but the femur bone looks fine). The PET scan did still show some cancer activity in my hip area. I have to start from square one with the leg which began with x-rays on Monday and an MRI on Tuesday, a physical therapy evaluation this coming Monday and then see the orthopedist again on Wednesday. So far, my insurance has authorized 6 physical therapy treatments to get started. The loss of so much muscle has really bummed me out because I feel I should have been starting this a long time ago. I could really use your prayers to get a lot of that muscle back, even though the orthopedic doctor says I definitely won't get all of it back. OUR GOD CAN DO MIRACLES!!!

The chemo has been fine. My neuropathy had been bad last week so they dropped my dose of Taxol down another 5% (which is a combined total of 25%) and my hands and feet have felt a little better yesterday and today.

This has been a long haul and I certainly appreciate all who continue to follow the blog and keep me in your prayers! In case it takes me a while to et back on, Happy Thanksgiving to all of you!

Well, I got my results today and I have good news and bad news. The good news is that the liver lesions have decreased a lot and the bone disease remains stable. The doctor is pleased with this but as a precaution, he wants to continue chemo for 3 more months (the bad news). I had a treatment today and it really isn't that inconvenient, I would just like some of the side effects to go away. He did decrease the dose of Taxol by 10% more (20% altogether since he reduced it a month ago by 10%). That is what causes the neuropaathy, so hopefully that starts going away.

My mom and dad both went with me today and we went to lunch after because today is my dad's birthday, so we went to his favorite restaurant In-N-Out (truly his favorite!). We had a nice time and Kelsey met up with us too.

I see the orthopedist on Monday and I also have an MRI coming up to try to get my legs back to normal, so I would love it if you pray for those things.

I had a great day on Tues. & Wed. of this week. I worked longer than usual at work and still had energy when I got home and Wed. I actually went out shopping (which I haven't done for a looonngggg time). I have had more energy and even today has been good so far.

I appreciate your care & concern and all your prayers & support!!!

Oh yeah, the compression fractures I had in my back did not show up on the PET scan and I don't know if they should or not, but anything makes me happy and I don't have pain in my back, which I appreciate.

I know some of you are anxious to hear about my PET scan results, and so am I. I am not going to be able to get them until Thurs. when I see my doctor.

I've had a few falls lately and this week my "good" leg was giving me trouble also, so my general doctor has arranged for me to have an MRI of the lumbar (lower) part of my back, because I irritated it one time when I fell, and also my upper legs to find out what's going on. On Mon. I go to an orthopedist who will look at the MRI and help me to get walking correctly again. God-willing, by Christmas I'll be all fixed up and clear of cancer!!!!

Thank you for continuing to pray and I will blog as soon as I know the results on Thurs. I wish all of you a nice Veteran's day (especially if you don't have to work). I'm a fortunate one who gets the day off and my regular day off is Thursday--YEA!

Blessings to all of you!!

Wow, my computer is acting up and I wasn't sure I would get this out in time for all of you to be praying for me tomorrow. I have my PET scan tomorrow at 9:00 am and I covet your prayers for a clear scan. I may not know the results until next week but I will blog when I know something.

The chemo has certainly taken its toll on me. I have been exhausted and Kelsey has really stepped up but I'm wearing her out too because she is working a lot and she has a lot of homework. Please pray that she does not get resentful for all I am requiring of her right now.

I truly appreciate your love and support!!!! Many blessings to all of you.

Wow, I have to be one of the most blessed persons in the world! Yesterday was supposed to be my last chemo but when I got there, the nurse said the doctor has me off for the usual week, then scheduled again. My mom then reminded me that he wanted to have the authrization if we need it pending the outcome of the PET scan. I have not received authorization yet for the PET scan so I don't have a date yet--keep praying!

Anyway, after chemo my family and a couple special friends went to my favorite restaurant (Fish Co.) for lunch. We enjoyed great food, but the company was so outstanding I was overwhelmed! We laughed and talked for close to 2 1/2 hours and I was higher than a kite when I left there. It was overwhelming too that Kelsey and her friend bought me flowers and a card and I got a couple other gifts when this was supposed to be me repaying for all each of them had done for me. This was an awesome day!!!

After being so "high" on life, I was a chatter box the rest f the day and had to call each of them to tell them how wonderful my day was and how much I love them. My family never ceases to amaze me!!! Usually I sleep a couple of hours after my chemo and lunch but yesterday I was so hyper that I got a lot done and even had 4 of Kelsey's friends spend the night because they were preparing for the Homecoming game which is tonight.

I am really feeling good despite my "crazy legs" and my fingers from the neuropathy. I do a lot of resting after work but overall I am doing much better! Thank you for your continued prayers and support!!! PRAISE GOD!!!!!!!

I'm back.........For those of you who follow my blog regularly, I'm sorry I haven't blogged for a while. I was just lazy, then I had a computer glitch (which is usually me).

Today I had my next-to-the-last chemo treatment and I saw the dr. The dr. had a lot of good news--my potassium levels are back up and my white blood cell counts are up but I will continue to get the Leukine shot tomorrow and one more the day after my last chemo to keep my immune system up.

My neuropathy is slightly decreasing but I still have to be very cautious. The dr. is scheduling my next PET scan to be done in the next two weeks and I'll see him again in three weeks. Next Thurs. is my LAST chemo (hopefully forever). God willing, the PET scan will show that my body has respionded well to the chemo and I won't have to have more later. If I do, I'll deal with it then. Please be praying about my PET scan and I'll let you know the date when I find out.

Like Betty's comment to my last blog, I have so much to be thankful for and I don't know God's plan in all of this, but I definitely know He has a perfect plan for my life!!! I would love your prayers also that God will use me for His purpose and plan. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!
I love all you blog followers, another huge blessing!

I went to the dr. yesterday and described my ever-worsening neuropathy.  The dr. prescribed an over-the-counter pill to take to help with it and when I get my next round of chemo, they will decrease the Taxol (which is causing the neuropathy) by 10%.  I can't wait to be able to type, button my pants, feel my feet, and especially to be able to walk without a cane.

Yesterday and today I made it to work, but I am exhausted--all the chemo has culminated to tire me out.  When I do get home from work, I'm useless.  I'm working tomorrow, but after that I'll be off until next Tuesday and I hope I can get something done and be able to rest.

I hope all of you working people get Columbus Day off too!!  Thank you for your prayers and support!!!

Well, I don't have much to report cuz I still can't walk and the neuropathy in my hands makes it a little tough to function at the computer and continues to be very bothersome; EXCEPT my oncology nurse friend called tonight and said she had to go to a class for her job about neuropathy and her teacher showed her how a patient with neuropathy in their legs would walk, and that's exactly how I have been walking.  HOPEFULLY, all these problems will go away when I finish my chemo.

Everyone at work caters to me and I have been doing well but still working shorter hours.

Thank you for your patience with me and your continued prayers!!!!!!!!

Never a dull moment!!! This week at chemo the Benadryl was hyping me up a little instead of knocking me out, so my nurse took care of that so I could get my "good" sleep.  She said this is common so she'll make sure it's balanced this week when I go too.  This week will be my 2nd treatment of this session so I will only have one more treatment after that for this session, then I only have ONE more session after that!!!!!  The Dr. will order another PET Scan when I complete the chemo.

My huge issue this weekend was my walking.  I am still not able to get both feet to cooperate with each other and I lose my balance and sometimes fall.  Yesterday I was talking to Kelsey and while talking, I fell from the hallway to the bathroom.  Poor thing, I really scared her, then we both started laughing.  It only resulted in a slight scratch.  The worst of it is the annoyance--being my age and I can't walk right.  If I haven't exhausted all my prayer requests, would you really be praying for my legs, I appreciate it so much!!!

I have really been blessed this week to hear friends tell me they're following my blog--I am humbled by all who care to know what's going on in my situation.  God bless you all!

Oh, thank you for all the prayers!!!!!  Wed. was a wonderful day--I went to work and stayed for about 5 hours and when I came home, instead of plopping in a chair, I started cleaning and I even cooked dinner before I relaxed for the evening.  PRAISE GOD!!!!!!!

Right now I'm ready to go to chemo and I'm looking forward to that beautiful deep sleep I enjoy while the chemo is killing my bad cancer cells.  I may still be tired when I get home (after we get our "El Taco" (which is our ritual after chemo).

God bless each of you and I wish you all good health cuz it i so much easier to appreciate from my perspective!  Much love to everyone.

I'm sorry the last blog was so depressing, but that was exactly how I was feeling.

I am still working a few hours-a-day and I come home and rest, then I have actually had a little extra energy to get one or two things done and a few people have brought dinner over, so I have not had to stress about that (or hear Kelsey complain).  Thank you, that was wonderful!!!

Today I had a good day at work and I really had strength that I haven't had for a while and it felt good,

Please continue to pray for my legs to cooperate with each other and for the neuropathy in my fingers.

God bless each of you and thank you so much for all your prayers--they got me through a very low spot for which I am truly blessed.

I know it's been almost a week, but I have had one of the worst weeks.  I was coming off that narcotic which left me with NO energy for the entire weekend.  Thanks to Kelsey she would fix me something to eat and I am receiving help again from family and friends because work takes A LOT out of me!

I have trouble typing because I have neuropathy in my thumbs and first two fingers on each hand.

Walking tires me out so much.

Sorry this is so depressing, but that's the reality of everything for this past week.  Hopefully it can only get better from here.  

I can seriously use the prayers and encouragement!!!

Wow, what a week!  It was tough.  Tuesday was the day to put on a new pain patch but I didn't have any so I was just going to call the next morning, but when I've talked to the Dr. about the patch, he says it is a very low dosage and it would be easy to wean off of it, so I decided I would try it.  Most of the day on Wed. I was pretty emotional and that night I was not able to sleep except for maybe 2 hours.  Thurs. I had chemo and I usually sleep through it beautifully, but this time I had the jitters and could not calm down.  I asked the onc. nurse what was happening and she told me I was withdrawing from the narcotic that was in the patch.  I was still dealing with effects today and I didn't go to work.  Well,  I have been off still and I have not had pain (please pray I won't), and I have been able to sleep better.

The Dr. told me to try to do some exercise in a pool to try to get rid of my limp, so I am going to my friend's house on Sat. to use her pool and try to work out this limp that is making me so tired from walking.  I really need prayer for this too and I thank you in advance for your prayers.

Have a happy and safe Labor Day weekend!!!  I appreciate all that everyone has done for me! 

For those of you who are following the blog, I know it's been over a week 'cause I'm back to work now.  I worked a full week last week and a couple of days I even came home and got some things done at home.  Then, Saturday, a committee I've been on at work wanted me to be their guest to take a train to Santa Barbara and while there (at the Fess Parker Double Tree Hotel), they presented me the "Sheriff's Award", which was really an honor.  After the presentation, we had time to walk around before taking the train home.  My friend pushed me around in my wheelchair, but I was still so drained from the 16-hour day, I slept all the next day and all day Monday after I went to work.  YIKES! I need to manage that better 'cause I'm still a little tired today.

I also got sick last night, which I think, has something to do with being 4 days after chemo--I have tracked that as one of the elements when I have gotten sick.  Kelsey was quick with the wet washcloth and we kept it to a minimum.

I had my blood drawn today in prep for chemo this Thursday.  Please pray for me because the effects of the chemo are culminating and taking more out of me when I need more energy to be working.  I appreciate all the love and encouragement in your words, cards, and visits.

Wow, Thursday was my first day back to work and I worked 4 hours then went home and crashed sound asleep for about 5 or 6 hours.  My body definitely wasn't used to that!  Friday I worked again for 4 hours and I was tired, but not as much as Thursday.

I am still limping a little and we're going to wait to see what the oncologist decides he wants to do after he sees the x-rays my general doctor had taken.  I have to have my blood drawn before I go to work tomorrow because I will have chemo on Thursday.  

Thank you to all my wonderful co-workers who welcomed me back so warmly with streamers, balloons, signs, gifts, etc.  It is so nice to work in such a loving and kind environment.

Well, tomorrow is the big day to go back to work and I'm a little nervous but excited!

My potassium did not go up last week, so I was put back on potassium pills and I am still dealing with my slight limp.  I saw my general doctor the other day and he ordered x-rays of my knee and my hip on my right leg and I should get the results of them tomorrow.

Please keep me in your prayers, especially tomorrow when I go back to work!  Thank you!!!!!

I have been struggling with some nagging problems this week, including my limp, but today I am feeling quite a bit better.  I'm trying to find the cause of some of the issues I've been dealing with. I had my blood drawn today and they will see if my potassium levels are going up and if not, I will be prescribed more potassium pills.

One week from today I will be going back to work.  I've never been off for such a long period of time, so it will be emotional to go back.  I do look forward to seeing all the wonderful people I work with!  Please pray with me for all the nagging issues to go away and that I will be prepared to dive back into work.  Thank you always for all your support and God bless you!!!

My doctor has released me to go back to work on August 20th.  I am really looking forward to it, but I have a lot of anxiety over it.  Last night I got sick, which may have been caused by other reasons, but I am very concerned about my stamina.  Please pray that I will be able to build up my stamina to work full days as soon as possible.  I am still struggling with a limp that I cannot correct and a couple other symptoms that are nagging,  I 've been off for 6 months already, but I am still nervous about going back to work--please continue to pray for me about this.  I still appreciate all the fabulous support and love I have receieved from so many of you.  God bless you!!!

Thank you so much to all who have been praying for me and please keep praying!  Last night I got very sick which could have been from a couple of things.  My doctor got my blood results today because I will be seeing him tomorrow and he called me to say my potassium continues to be low and that may be one of the reasons I was so sick last night.  I also have this limp that I cannot correct and I am going to ask the doctor about that tomorrow too.  Along with my doctor visit, I will also have chemo tomorrow and I need strength for that also.  I truly appreciate all your encouragement and support!!!

I have had a pretty good week.  The only thing that has been tough for me this week is that I have been very tired.  I have heard from the disability company and I will be returning to work on August 20, 2009.  I would truly appreciate serious prayer because I do get very tired and I am nervous about starting back when I don't have the stamina I feel I need.

Thank you for your continued support and prayers.  I will continue to be taking chemotherapy through November, and possibly even after that.  The Lord has totally done an awesome job of healing me, and I still have a long road.  I am totally grateful for all your compassion and encouragement!

Sorry I haven't blogged for a while. I had a little trouble with the Internet and I spent a couple days with some friends scrapbooking--that's so fun for me!

My health has maintained pretty well except for a little sickness last night and this morning--possibly because I didn't eat much yesterday. I've had my shots this week and got my blood drawn and I will have chemo on Thursday. I am still working on the disability issues to allow me to get back to work. Please continue to pray about that! Thank you and God bless each of you!!!

Well, I found out from the Phys. Asst. that one of the reasons I have been getting sick is because my potassium level is low, so I was put on medication.  I had chemo today and I slept the majority of the day.  I feel good though!

I want to thank the anonymous person who sent me the cute flowers, that was very nice.  I continue to enjoy the cards and acts of kindness.  Your prayers always encourage me!

I have been trying to keep cool for the past couple of days, which meant going to the movies today.  I wish I could say that I'm not getting sick anymore, but I did get sick this morning--YUK! I hope that will eventually go away.

I have chemo this Thursday, so please pray for that and also, I am trying to go back to work without messing up my disability insurance, and I would really appreciate your prayers for that also.  Thank you for your support.

Hi, I know I asked all of you to be praying for the outcome of my Pet scan on Thursday, then I didn't blog until today.  I'm sorry about that--my niece, Tiffany got married and I have been occupied with that--It was absolutely GORGEOUS!!!!!!!   

The doctor and the Pysician's Asst. were both very excited that the report indicated that my body is responding very well to the chemo.  The new Pet scan showed great improvement, but the doctor recommends I remain taking chemo for 4 more months (4 rounds), then he will have another Pet scan at that time.  I still may need chemo after that but he will determine that after these next 4 rounds.

I was hoping to go back to work very soon, but now I have to be sure that I do what is necessary according to my disability insurance.

I am so confident that the Lord is answering all our prayers and I know He will continue to, so I humbly request your continued prayers for the next 4 months.  Your love and support are truly appreciated!!!  

I got up early this morning to have my Pet scan and I had to fast for six hours prior to the test. When I don't eat, I get sick, so as we walked up to the building, I was casually getting sick over the planter.  When that was over, the Pet scan went fine.

I had to get my blood drawn on the way home, then when I got home, I took a nap for a while. The appt. with my doctor will be this Thursday at 1:45.   Please pray for the results of the Pet scan and the appt. with my doctor.

I appreciate each and every one of you and thank you for continuing to pray for me!!! 

I had a nice weekend.  I went to my high school reunion with my two friends from high school and then Sunday spent the day watching Kelsey play water polo.  I guess I was pretty tired because today I didn't wake up until 11:00, which really surprised me.  Yesterday I had gotten sick in the morning, but felt better when it was time to go to Kelsey's games.  Today I have felt very well and I didn't even have that tingly feeling in my ribs that I have most of the time.

Tomorrow morning I have my Pet scan and then I will see the doctor on Thursday to determine if I'm ready to go back to work.  I sure feel ready to go back!  Please pray for the results of the Pet scan--thank you!!!!!!

I am required to have a Leukine shot on the two days following my chemo, so today was my 2nd shot.  After that I went out and enjoyed a movie.  The Dr. has ordered a pet scan for next week to see how my body is reacting to the chemo, so please keep me in your prayers regarding the results of this new pet scan, and also that I will be released to go back to work.  Thank for continuing to support me and pray for me, I am truly blessed which makes me very thankful!!!

We had an awesome cruise.  We had some rocky seas all night the first night and morning (the only day we weren't stopping at a port) and Kelsey and I were both sick that morning.   The rest of the time I had a lot of strength during the day but definitely needed a nap before dinner and usually went to bed early too.  The only other time I got sick was after breakfast on the last day.

The sights were gorgeous and we saw 2 brown bears, several orca (killer) whales, and a lot of bald eagles.  We took a ton of pictures so I hope I can show them off pretty soon.  The glaciers are amazing and the late-night sunsets (10:00 - 11:00pm) too.  I don't have enough adjectives to describe the beauty all around Alaska.  We all had a fantastic time.

Thank you for your prayers and sorry it took so long to blog--I forgot my password until today.

Well my health has been very good this week and I am very excited to go on our cruise tomorrow. Please pray for Kelsey and I and our whole group that everything will go smoothly, including the sea we're sailing.  Thank you once again for all the encouragement and support.

I'll blog again when we return.

Had my 1st treatment in my 4th round today and it went without incident.  I will get a Leukine shot tomorrow morning so my white blood cells will stay stable which I need prayer for, as I travel on an airplane and a ship with a lot of people.

I feel very fortunate to get to go on this Alaskan cruise with Kelsey in a couple of days.  I humbly hope you will all be praying for me to fight off any infections, to have strength to do some special things, and that all goes smoothly for us.  Our love to all of you!

PRAISE GOD!!!!!!  I saw the doctor today and he had all positive things to say.  My cancer blood count is still 1.8 as compared to 14.6 when I was diagnosed.  All other blood counts including liver and kidney are also very good.  My other counts are good too and best of all, they have remained stable for the past couple of weeks, which the doctor was very happy about.   The plan is for me to complete my 4th round of chemo on 7/7/09 and  the doctor is going to authorize me for another pet scan at that time to see exactly how my body is responding, which he feels is very well.

I am totally grateful for all the prayers because our God is awesome and is healing me in a powerful way.  I love you all and I would ask for prayers for my chemo treatment tomorrow (the 1st in the 4th round).  Thank you!!!! 

Happy Father's Day to all you fathers and those celebrating a father!  I got off to a tough start this morning when I got sick on the way to church, but it definitely got better as the day went on.  I have been using a lot more energy which has made me more tired, but it feels good.  I'm gonna see the doctor tomorrow (postponed from Thurs.) and I'm curious to hear what he has to say.

I am still very appreciative of all your prayers and support and I love you all!

Today I was supposed to meet with the doctor but he did not have the results of my blood tests yet, so we postponed the appointment until Monday.  That will be just in time to get refills on my prescriptions and ask him some questions before we leave for our cruise on Thursday.

I did have a good day today but just played it cool and got some rest.  Thank you for your prayers and support always!!!!!

Wow, just when everything seems to be going pretty smoothly, I woke up with nausea and got sick a few times.  That wasn't a very good start, then we went to lunch, but my appetite just wasn't there.  When we came home, I just didn't want to get sick so I took a pill and a nap, and I'm feeling better now.  We are going out for another walk right now to continue to try to build up my muscles.

This too shall pass and with all the prayer support from all you beautiful people, I have no doubt that tomorrow will be much better!  Much love to everyone!!!!

I had a nice weekend, but I had a "strange" morning.  Sometimes on the 4th day after chemo I get a "strange" feeling and/or nausea and today was  the "strange" feeling after I went to the doctor to get my Leukine shot.

After lunch I was feeling much better and when my mom got here, we took a short walk (with no mishaps) so I can try to build up my muscles.  I still request your prayers for strength, please, and appreciate your support.

Well, I finished round 3 of chemo and had another Leukine shot today and will have another one on Monday.  I will meet with the doctor again next Thursday to find out what tests he has planned after my 4th round of chemo.  I am planning to go back to work after my 4th round, so I am concentrating on gaining strength and stamina for that.  

Kelsey and I and a group of friends have had an Alaskan cruise planned since before I got sick, so I would truly appreciate your prayers that I will be healthy and able to enjoy our cruise in two weeks.

I appreciate all of you who read my blog and the sweet comments on the blog (I know many people have trouble with that) and the nice verbal comments also.  I would never be able to get through this as well as I have without all your prayer support and the sweet encouragement from all of you.

I've had a very good week and I'm ready for my 3rd treatment of my 3rd round of chemo tomorrow.  I had my Leukine shots without any adverse effects, and I'll have them again after this treatment.  

For those I don't see in person, I am adjusting much better to compliments on my new hairdo.  I was very emotional for a while there, but I 'm not as sensitive now.  Praise God!

I still appreciate your prayers for the whole process--I still have a lot to deal with, although I am much better than a couple of months ago.  The Lord has healed me in so many ways and I pray will continue to heal me completely.  Much love to everyone!!!

I had a great weekend and I had more stamina than I've had for a long time, but definitely need my rest too.  Today I had another Leukine shot and it was okay, I just need to sleep off the Benadryl I have to take before I get the shot.  This Thursday will be my 3rd chemo in my 3rd round.  After my 4th round of chemo, my doctor wants to evaluate my condition by re-testing what we tested before I began my treatment.

Please continue to pray that I will be completely healed because I can feel how the Lord is amazingly strengthening me each day.  Thank you for your continued prayers and support!

Well, Wednesday I had my follow-up with my radiologist and he gave me a clean bill-of-health and I don't have to see him anymore.  Yesterday I had my 2nd treatment in my 3rd round of chemo which had me very tired again for most of the day.  I also got the authorization for my Leukine shot, so I had my first shot today and will have another one on Monday.  

I was hoping to get back to work soon, but my doctor wants to make sure the Leukine shot works for me because without it, my immune system is weakened and I need to be careful being around a lot of people (and germs in general).

The authorizations were approved just in time and I know that was your prayers--THANK YOU!

I appreciate each and every one of you and your wonderful support of me.

Today I had a very lazy day, mostly because I didn't have any plans.  It felt good to just relax for the whole morning.  Tomorrow I have a check-up with the radiologist to check my femur, then on Thurs. I have the 2nd treatment in my 3rd round of chemo.  I am waiting for the authorization to get the shots to bring up my white cell count--please pray that comes soon.

Thank you for your prayers for strength because I have been feeling much stronger.  I appreciate all the ways each of you continue to bless me!  I pray that all of you will be blessed abundantly.

Happy Sunday!!!  I have had a very "normal" weekend, doing what I need to do and driving myself around.  Last night I went to an Angel game which I was very nervous about (the walk from the parking lot, sitting for a long time, etc.) and it felt good to know I was able to do it.  God is definitely strengthening my body and I am extremely grateful.  Thank you for continued prayers and support!  My love goes out to all of you!

Today was the 1st session of my 3rd round of chemo.  I slept a lot while  I was there, but I have been doing well since I got home.  The doctor informed me that my white blood counts are a little under average, so I need to get a Leukine shot once a day for two days following chemo to raise my white blood cell count, which will increase my immune system.  Also, after my 4th round of chemo, the doctor plans to re-scan all the scans we did in the beginning to see where I am.  According to my blood work, my cancer level went down again from 4.7 to 2.7 today--YEA!!!!!!!!!

I know your prayers are heard and that the Lord is miraculously healing my body!  I appreciate all your faithful support and humbly ask that you keep praying!  I love you all so much and I am so grateful to each and every one of you for your expressions of kindness and generosity.

Wow, another great day.  I went out shopping with my Mom and I never had to sit down because of back pain.  We went to a couple different stores and I never sat down.  YEA!!!  I did take a nap later, but I feel very good.

Tomorrow I start round 3 of my chemo, so I appreciate your prayers when you think of me!  God bless each of you and I am so thankful for your continued support.

Blesses be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; who comforts us in all our tribulation.    2Cor.1:3,4

I have been feeling pretty well since the last time I wrote, last Thursday.  I had a nice weekend!  I attended my oldest niece's graduation from Biola (can you believe it???), and went to their house to celebrate later.  I hung out and actually did a lot of "normal" things this weekend, including house cleaning.

Please continue to pray that I will be relieved of all my nausea symptoms and that the rash on my arms and one leg will be healed.  I start my 3rd round of chemo on Thursday this week and I would appreciate your prayers for everything to continue to go well.  Thank you for your love and support always!!!

I had a fantastic day today!!!  I woke up feeling very good and strengthened in my leg which was very weak the day before.  Mom and I met the Contracts Unit (my unit at work) at a favorite lunch spot in San Gabriel and had a wonderful lunch with incredible company.  It was so great to see all the special people I work with and it gave me the itch to get back to work.  Thank you to all of the Contracts Unit for taking the time to meet us for lunch, the nice card and your generosity.  

I have had a lot of stamina today and I am very grateful!  Thank you to all you prayer warriors!

Thank you for your prayers!  Everything went well today.  The doctor said this only happens to about 1 in 1,000 people--however, I don't feel special.  Kelsey told me I'm God's chosen and that does make me feel special.  I am not scheduled for anything the rest of this week until chemo next Thursday.  Please pray for strength and healing in every area of my body!  

It is so awesome to know I have so much support and I can totally feel your prayers.  I am truly blessed and I know the Lord is carrying me through this ordeal.

Much love to all of you!!!

Praise God! My port-o-cath was authorized and I will be having surgery at 7:30am tomorrow (Wed.) morning. I am so excited to get this fixed and I would certainly appreciate any and all prayers. Thank you again (and again) for your continued support and all your acts of kindness. God bless each one of you in an amazing way!!!!

I had a rough start this morning, feeling a little sick, but it got a lot better.  My mom came back over today and that definitely cheered me up.  Thank you to all who have really helped out while my mom was gone!!!

I am still waiting for my authorization to have my port-o-cath fixed after it flipped over, so please pray that happens quickly and also pray that I can get rid of a nagging rash I have developed over the area on my leg that was radiated.  I appreciate all the prayers I can get to start feeling more normal each day--I have had a lot of minor struggles.

I love you all and truly appreciate your love, support and prayers!

Wow, what a week!   I felt very good on Thursday, my birthday, and Kelsey had planned for several friends and family members to come over for an Open House birthday party.  Kelsey did a great job preparing everything and many people came over and I was totally blessed, as usual!!!  I was pretty tired on Friday from all the birthday blessings,  but I was able to sleep in.

Today, my sister and I had a bridal shower for my niece.  It was a lot of fun but it did use my energy up.  I'm still having trouble (I get emotional) over my hair loss.  Many people complimented me about my hair (my wig) and I didn't handle it very well.

THANK YOU so much to all who came to my party, who sent me cards and continue to support me and encourage me!!  I love everyone very much!!!  :)

I had the last chemo treatment for my 2nd round of chemo today and everything went very well! I came home and slept for another 3 hours.  I also had an appt. today with the radiation doctor at the hospital to look at my port-a-cath (which actually got flipped over), and I will have to have the surgeon go back in next week to fix it.  Please keep that issue in prayer!!!!

I want to thank my sister, sister-in-law and my mom who have surprised me by having a whole bunch of people send me birthday cards this week!!!!  Talk about overwhelming, I opened over 40 birthday cards today and at least 15 yesterday and quite a few over the weekend.  It's so amazing how many of you are praying for me and totally blessing me.  Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!  I love you all very much.

I had a wonderful Mother's Day--I felt like I ate the whole day.  It started out with Kelsey making breakfast for me, going out to lunch after church, then having dinner with my family at my sister's house.  Everything was perfect!  

This morning I felt a little nausea, but as I got better I was able to do a few things I needed to get done, and with lots of encouragement and support, I was able to get them done.

I am still waiting to get my port-a-cath fixed, so please be praying that will be taken care of soon!  God bless you all--I love you!!

Well, another awesome day!  I slept in then my friend and I ran some errands and she gave me a manicure and a pedicure (avoiding the chance of infection).  I have had visitors all afternoon and my other friends brought me a laptop to be able to blog easier--PRAISE GOD FOR ALL THE WONDERFUL PEOPLE HE HAS PUT IN MY LIFE!!!!!!  I am truly overwhelmed at how blessed I am.  

I pray that all of you mothers will have an awesome Mother's Day and appreciate all the joy the Lord has blessed you with.

Praise the Lord for all the WONDERFUL things He has done and all the ways we are blessed!!

God is GREAT!!!! I received some wonderful news from the Dr. today although I don't know exactly what it means as far as my treatment. My blood counts show that my cancer level is at 4.7 and when I was diagnosed in Feb. it was 14. I know that it means that the cancer is responding to the chemo and the Dr. wants the number to be less than 5 -- YEA!!!!!!!! I can't begin to thank you all for your incredible prayer support and encouragement, 'cause this was awesome news today. I did have a chemo treatment today also and I have felt fantastic, other than being a little tired. I was also able to get a chest x-ray after my chemo to start the process of finding out what is happening with my porta-cath.

I pray that God will bless each of you 10-fold for all the ways you are blessing me. Glory to our awesome God and love to each and every one of you!!!!!

Well, right after I wrote my blog yesterday I started getting sick, which lasted all evening--YUK! I made it to my 9th treatment today and have been doing well and pray that I continue to for the rest of the day. I am also experiencing some difficulty with my porta-cath and I need to have an x-ray to see if it has flipped, so I would truly appreciate your prayers for that also.

Please say a special prayer for my Mom & Dad as they travel to the Grand Canyon this week and especially for my Mom as she had an incident with her foot last night.

I appreciate the extra help I am receiving this week from everybody with my Mom out-of-town! I continue to thank the Lord for all my blessings, especially my family and friends!!!

I had a nice and fairly quiet weekend and I got up early today to go to my radiation appt. After radiation, my parents and some of their friends (of over 50 yrs.), one couple from No. Calif., took me to lunch. We had a very nice lunch and when I got home I felt like the radiation had zapped me because I just fell asleep. I feel good and I'm excited that I only have 2 more radiation treatments to go.

So many of you keep assuring me that you are praying for me and I can certainly feel how the Lord is healing me. I am so blessed to have so many people committed to praying and I'm totally thankful!!!! I hope you are all especially blessed this week. I love you!

Yesterday I survived chemo and radiation and I was tired in the evening, but feeling fine today. I went to radiation today--#7 out of 10.

My appetite has been more normal and I have had a lot more energy. I had a very minor bump this week with my porta-cath, but hopefully that will be resolved next week.

The Lord just continues to strengthen me and I am feeling a whole lot more hopeful with the whole situation than I have at times. I cannot express enough, how much it means to me to know that so many of you are reading my blog and continually praying for me and encouraging me. Thank you so much to my wonderful mom who has been a constant and awesome support and to my family and friends who have filled in to give my mom a break too! I LOVE YOU ALL!!!!

Today I saw my general doctor and he absolutely couldn't believe my hair was a wig--he was amazed at how much it looked like my normal hair. He stated that with my faith and positive attitude, he feels assured that I will do great throughout the treatment process. I was very encouraged when I left there. I then went to radiation and did fine, but I was very tired and took a nap when I got home.

Tomorrow is my first chemo treatment for this second cycle. I truly appreciate your continued prayers and support. Thanks and love to you all.

PRAISE THE LORD!!!!! I've had 2 very good days with no radiation problems and I've had more energy than I've had for a while. I know this is from all your prayers!

I will praise thee, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will show forth all thy marvellous works. I will be glad and rejoice in thee: I will sing praise to thy name, O thou most High. Psalm 9:1,2

Thank you for ALL your continued encouragement. "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up." 1 Thess. 5:11

Well.......it's done!!! There is a friend from my church and his son who wanted to shave their head with me when I was ready, so since I was having a lot of anxiety over losing so much hair this weekend, we decided that after church today we would shave our heads. Our special group of friends went over to Rose & Mark's house after church and had our "shaving party". I took some pictures, so as soon as someone more computer savvy than me can post them, you will see them. I feel a whole lot better now than I did just thinking about it.

Thank you for all the super nice blogs I have received recently--the encouragement and support has been a huge blessing. I have talked to so many people recently (especially about my hair) and you have all been extremely nice also. I am the most blessed person and I am so thankful to each and every one of you who have been praying for me, encouraging me, and being just as nice as you could possibly be to me.

Love and blessings to all of you--have a wonderful week!!!!

Well, today was the first of 10 radiation treatments for my femur. I wish I could say I breezed through it, but I did get sick afterward--nothing like how sick I got when I had radiation last time, but all the same, I got sick. Please pray that I will be able to take the radiation without any sickness and/or nausea. My hair is still holding out too. I expect that this weekend it will most likely be gone. I know you're all probably tired of hearing this same thing, so I'll just let you know when it's gone.
I hope you all have a wonderful weekend and that you are truly blessed in everything you do!

Today worked out well. I went and had my Zomeda treatment and when we came home, there was a message that we could come early to the radiation Dr., so we turned around and went back to Downey. That sure beat waiting until 5:00pm to go. I got set up to start my radiation tomorrow at 1:30.

I lost quite a bit of hair today, but for the most part, it still covers my head--I don't know if it will tomorrow.

I received some beautiful cards in the mail today and some very nice phone calls, and that is so encouraging. I want to thank each of you for what you do in your special way to encourage me. I love you all very much and appreciate all my family and friends.

Praise the Lord! We received the authorization today for radiation to my femur, so we will go to the radiation Dr. tomorrow at 5:00pm. I will be getting Zomeda at 8:45am. Thank you for your prayers for continued strength.

Also, I feel like the day is getting very close that my hair will be falling out. This is emotional for me, so I appreciate your support in this area also.

God bless each of you and I thank you for all the ways you have and continue to support and care for me!

Please continue to pray for authorization for radiation to my femur and for strength to endure the whole process. Some days are better than others and today was one of the not-so-good days.

Thank you for your continued prayers and encouragement--I definitely need it!

Kelsey got home safely Friday night and we just hung out on Saturday and she shared all her pictures from Spain and her journals with me, so I felt like I got my own private tour.

I had a mostly quiet weekend and went to church this morning. I am feeling pretty good and anticipating a good week. At this time, the only scheduled appointment is my Zometa treatment on Wed., but we are hoping to get approval from the HMO to start radiation on my femur this week.

Please pray that the authorization will come in quickly and that nothing happens to my femur in the meantime and also that a nagging infection I've had this week will go away. I love all of you and appreciate your continuous encouragement and support! I hope you all have a very blessed week!!!!!

Today was a great day for me. My dad asked my mom & I to meet him for lunch at the Fish Company Restaurant (my favorite), so we had lunch and ran a couple of errands, then it was time to pick Kelsey up at the airport. We went to dinner with her friend's family, then came home and she is so tired that she went straight to bed (after a few snuggles and kisses from her Mommy).

I had mentioned the darling "sunshine basket" that some friends made for me and I am still opening a-gift-a-day. I have gotten a couple of darling hats, gift cards, etc. and today's was great because I love tropical tea (a certain brand) and we absolutely couldn't find it in decaf, but whoever put that in the basket found it. I am having fun opening all the cute gifts.

My body was mostly free from pain today except for a minor infection and I feel so much relief, especially to my back. Thank you so much for all the prayers! I hope you all have a nice weekend and for those of you in So. Calif., enjoy the sunshine we're supposed to have!!!! Love to you all.

Hi everyone! I had chemo today that was supposed to last 2 hours and I was actually there for approximately 4 hours by the time we talked to the Dr. too. I was very tired for most of the day when we got home, so I had a NICE nap today.

The Dr. went over the MRIs with us and was mostly in agreement with what the radiologist had to say. One of the decisions I had to contemplate was whether or not to have some more radiation to my femur which has a lot of cancer in it and is growing into the cortex of the femur and the worry is that I could break my femur. (For those of you who remember, my mom broke her femur last year and wouldn't wish that on me.) I have pretty much decided that when I get the approval, I will be having more radiation (10 treatments) on my femur.

I truly appreciate all your prayers because I really had peace about this decision. I have been totally overwhelmed with ALL the acts of kindness and I thank you all so much and wish for all of you to enjoy the blessings I have!

4/15/09

Another fantastic day!!!! I was able to get some personal projects done this morning, then my mom and I met my sister-in-law and my niece for lunch since they are off school this week. We had a very nice lunch and visit. When we got home, I had a couple of visitors who blessed me still more, and relaxed my aching body.

Tomorrow I will have chemo in the morning and talk to the oncologist about the results of the MRIs, then we will have to make some decisions. Please pray for guidance because the decisions are the toughest part. Thank you for your continued support, love and prayers!!!!!

April 14, 2009

I started my day with a follow-up appointment with my radiologist. He read over my MRI results with my mom and me and when we left we were mostly happy with the news. I will need more radiation in my right femur and I will still have issues with my back, but for the most part, we were excited. We still need to go over the MRI with my oncologist on Thursday. For all of you prayer warriors, please pray specifically for the tumor in my right femur and in my lower back.

I was so thankful for the news today and am praying that each day continues to get better as it has. Once again, I truly, truly appreciate your continued prayers and support.

April 13, 2009

I'm overwhelmed with all the people praying for me and have totally felt the Lord strengthening my body this weekend and today. Words cannot express how thankful I am and I just ask for your continued prayers for my chemo on Thursday and if my hair is going to fall out, it should be this week. PRAY....PRAY....PRAY.......and if it does, I'm prepared with my wig!

Thank you all for your cards, visits, text messages, blog comments, etc. They really encourage me. I hope you all had a very blessed Easter, as I did.

Easter Sunday, April 12th

Had a super weekend! Had a slumber party on Friday with the girls. Then spent the weekend at my mom and dad's with my family. We all went to church together on Saturday night and had a nice Easter celebration together.

I talked to Kelsey and she is doing well and having a lot of fun in Spain. Please keep praying that the good health keeps up. My next chemo treatment will be this Thursday.

April 9, 2009

I had a fantastic day today! Woke up leisurly and looked on the computer and saw that Kelsey arrived safely in Madrid! My mom and I were going to lunch on the patio at the Long Beach Art Museum and Julie joined us since she is off this week. On our way home from lunch, we got a call from Kelsey and she sounded great. The rest of the day went just as well and I had very minimal pain all day. All your prayers have been such a blessing to me and I feel God's healing power at work. Thank you very much.

April 8, 2009

I had three hours of chemo this morning and slept through most of it so it wasn't too bad. I had a pretty good day, no side effects.

Tonight I drove Kelsey and my mom to the airport, stayed and had dinner with Kelsey and Alyssa and waited to walk her to the terminal gate and say good-bye. She is off to Spain and should arrive there tomorrow. Then I drove my mom home in my own car. We rented a couple of movies, put on our jammies, and we're all ready for movie night.

I enjoyed another one of my "cheer-up" gifts today and they really work.....it cheered me up! Thanks so much for all your prayers. I can feel them working on a daily basis.

April 7, 2009

I got up early to be at my MRI appointment at 6:30 a.m. and I was there for three hours. After my appointment, my mom and dad and I went to breakfast at Katella Deli. When we got home, we cleaned up a little and then had some visitors. They brought a huge "sunshine basket". It had a lot of small presents to be opened whenever I need a "cheer-up". I will be wanting those "cheer-ups" in the next 10 days while Kelsey is in Spain.

I have my chemo treatment tomorrow morning, then Kelsey leaves tomorrow afternoon. Please continue to pray for both of us. I love y0u and God Bless you!

Monday, April 6, 2009

Today my mom and I ran a couple of errands, then when we got home, I fell asleep for quite awhile. I guess the chemo and my busy weekend caught up with me.
I would truly appreciate if all of you would thank the Lord in advance for the healing He is doing in my body. I will be having an MRI of my back tomorrow morning.
God bless each of you and thank you for your love and support.

Sunday, April 5, 2009

Today was a great day! I went to church and had visitors till my mom came at 6pm. Please pray for an MRI that will be done Tuesday morning at 7am.

April 4, 2009

Praise God! I have had a really good last couple of days. Yesterday I felt great and have had no side effects from the chemo. I have a little pain in my back but not too bad. I have not gotten sick at all which is a huge answer to prayer.

I had a very fun day today. My sister and Kelsey and I went out shopping a little bit. We ran some errands, got a couple of new tops which is always a "mental boost" and got lunch and brought it back to the house to eat.

It's so great just to get out in the sunshine and out and about. It is very uplifting and "normal". I had a delicious dinner delivered last night and will have another one delivered tonight. I am just so thankful for all of my friends and family. They all just make life a better place! Please continue to pray that I will gain more strength on a daily basis and that I continue to feel well throughout my chemo treatments. I love you all!

April 2, 2009

Well, my first treatment is over and all went well. They will be giving me taxol for three weeks in a row with avastin along with the first and third taxol treatment and then the the forth week off and then the regiment will start all over again. I felt very comforted and could feel all your prayers and I appreciate that tremendously.

Please continue to pray for more strength every day. I thank you all very much and I love you.

April 1, 2009

I'm anxiously awaiting my first chemo treatment tomorrow. Thank you all for remembering me in your prayers tomorrow. God bless each of you.

March 31, 2009

I enjoyed another wondeful day, feeling stronger than I have for a while. Please pray that I continue to get stronger before I start my chemo on Thursday.

I enjoyed some nice company today and even got to sit outside in the sunshine for a short time.

I'm excited about starting chemo this Thursday but a little nervous. As always, I truly value your prayers and appreciate your love and concern.

March 30, 2009

I have been so blessed to have someone willing to stay with me every night. I'm so thankful that my mom is staying with me during the week and at times when she has had to go home to go to her Dr., my sister Julie and my sister-in-law Robin have come to stay with me. On the weekend, I want my mom to be able to go home to my dad and I want to thank Gloria, Misty, Betty Bath, and Joellen for offering to stay with me. I totally appreciate all the help and especially how Kelsey has stepped up too! I love you all and thank you very much!

I also want to thank the many of you who have helped with meals. You have all brought some delicious food and we are totally greatful for all of it, and especially your generosity.

Today was a wonderful day! I felt great and my mom, Kelsey and I went to get "my new doo" today. I wasn't brave enough to pick a different color hair, but it is a new style and Kelsey really likes it too. You'll all probably see it soon because I am scheduled to start my first chemo treatment this Thursday, April 2nd. Please be praying that all will go well with chemo.

Saturday, March 28, 2009

It's been a great day! Got to sleep in then go to my brother's house to celebrate his 50th Birthday with our whole family. (You'll see the new picture on the blog real soon)
Thank you for your prayers for my PET scan all went well just pray for the results.
Love to all of you.

March 26, 2009

I felt the best today that I've felt for a while. Praise God! Tonight I feel very emotional -- mostly concerned about my PET Scan tomorrow. My scan was scheduled for 1:00 p.m. but has been moved up to 7:45 a.m. I would appreciate all the prayers possible. Thank you and I love you all.

March 25, 2009

Today I had my second Zometa infusion and it was administered through my port-a-cath and it all went well.

After my treatment, I felt good and I got my nails done, then my mom and I went to a wig place in Long Beach and bought a couple of hats to have for when my hair falls out.

We got authorization today for my PET Scan and it's scheduled for Friday at 1:00. Once we get the results of the PET scan, I'll be able to start my chemo, so things are moving along.

I continue to feel your support through your prayers and your gestures of kindness and I appreciate everything.

March 24, 2009

Today was an unusual day. Now that I've concluded my radiation, I thought I was done barfing too, but I woke up very nauseated and had three episodes. Needless to say, I didn't eat much.

I enjoyed a visit with my bosses today and they assured me that my work will be there when I get back.

Tomorrow I have my second zometa treatment and it will be the first treatment administered through my port-a-cath. I'm a little nervous, but I know everything will work out.

The good news is that we got the authorization we wanted for the chemo and now we're waiting for the authorization for the PET scan. Hopefully we will get this in the next day or two. Thank you for your continued love, support, and prayers.

March 23, 2009

I Just had a really good day today. Had a lot of visitors today which was fun. Thank you for the delicious lunches and great company! I'm still waiting for a date for my PET Scan. So, I'll keep you all posted. Keep praying!

March 22, 2009

Had a good day today! Got up and went to church which is always uplifting. Had a lot of visitors including some I hadn't seen for years. I also had some calls from friends I hadn't heard from in a long time. We're waiting this week for a "PET Scan" in order to start my chemo so hopefully that will happen soon. I will keep you all posted on upcoming events. Please continue to pray.

March 21, 2009

Today is a relaxing day with several visitors coming over including my nephew from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.

Yesterday I was able to have surgery to have my port-a-cath inserted. I was scheduled to have it on Maqrch 30th, but they were able to move me up, which I was very excited about. Hopefully this week or next I will be able to start chemotherapy. I'm still having some side effects from my surgery but hopefully they'll be going away soon.

I'm still appreciating all the prayers and acts of kindness all of you have shown. Thank you for all the ways each of you have blessed me.

March 19, 2009

Today was a difficult day for me. I saw my oncologist this morning, and he informed me that my cancer is a cronic disease that I will deal with for the rest of my life with on and off treatment. I was under the impression that I would have my chemo treatment for a specific time period and be healed again. The reality was hard for me to handle and I shed a lot of tears after the news.

This afternoon we went to get a second opinion and the Dr. agreed that this disease will follow me my whole life, but it is very feasible to get it in to remission and it's possible that it might be in remission for a long time. My mom and I both felt more comfort and much more positive about my future.

I know that I have MANY people praying for me and that God is in control of my situation, so I am trying to have peace and know that "all things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purpose".

We went to the surgeon's office this morning also to see if I could have surgery to insert my port-a-cath sooner than originally scheduled, and they moved my surgery up to tomorrow (Friday) at 1:00 p.m. This is great because now I'll be ready for my chemo as soon as I can get it.

Thank you for all your prayers from the bottom of my heart. It's still a long road, but please continue to pray. I love you all!

March 17, 2009

Wow, my pain was much less today than it's been for awhile. I had a good morning and a couple of friends from work came over for lunch and my mom and I were able to get everything ready even with our "lifting" problems (her with only one good arm and me with my weak back). Had a relaxing afternoon with my mom and dad and Kelsey and my brother. All in all, I had a very good day.

I will be going to my doctor on Thurs. morning to find out exactly what my chemo treatment will be. In the afternoon, I will be going to a second opinion Dr. to see if he agrees, then hopefully begin chemo as soon as possible. I would be extremely blessed (as usual) if you would keep me in prayer during both of these appointments.

Once again, your support and encouragement are what keep me so positive. Thank you very much and I love you all!

Monday, March 16

Today I was tired! I tried to get out a little this weekend and it all caught up with me today. After sleeping in, I dozed off for most of the remainder of the day too. Thank you so much for all your blog comments, for the great meals, the abundance of flowers and cards, and all the great gifts. I have been so overwhelmed with all the kindness from everyone! I feel so blessed. God Bless you all!

Saturday, March 14

Friday was just a very fun day of visitors along with lots of encouragment. And when my sister got here, we got to go "OUT" on a fun adventure....(a short one of course). Today, we ventured out to WalMart for a few things because I've been feeling a little bit better the last couple of days. I did, however, need to come home and take a quick nap before my afternoon adventure which will include a 3 year old birthday party for a good friend on mine. I hope tomorrow will continue to bring more strength and healing to my body as it has been. Please continue your prayers.....they mean the world to me!

Thursday, March 12, 2009

I woke up with some nausea this morning, and had a very tired day. I think the radiation caught up to me. Had a relaxing day with friends and my sister-in-law, Robin, just hanging out.
Take care & God bless you all !

Wednesday, March 11

WELL.....I got the results of my liver biopsy today and was told that the tumors are cancerous. This means that in a couple of weeks I will begin chemotherapy, and yes, I will loose my hair, so I want you all to let me know what color hair I should look for. Red is my favorite color, but I'm too chicken to go that drastic.

I must admit I was a bit scared today before we went to the Dr. office, but now I know this is the plan for me and with all the prayers and support I have had thus far, I know I'll get through this too.

I sure would appreciate it, if you would continue to pray!

Tuesday, March 10

My morning started out great waking up to the beautiful singing of the birds, and excited that today was my 10th and final radiation treatment. I am so glad to be done with the radiation and look forward to the healing effects it should have on my back - hopefully real soon. I enjoyed hanging out in my living room today, peacefully listening to a gentle breeze blowing, front porch chimes, and the stillness.

Visitors are more than welcome, I would just request that you call and let me know first. Thanks again for all your continued support and prayers.
Love you all,
Jana

Monday, March 9

Please don't stop praying! I had my 9th radiation treatment today and I had a very good day, but I did barf two times. I want so badly to be done with that! Well, tomorrow is my LAST radiation treatment.

Today I also had a consultation with the surgeon to schedule a surgery date for the insertion of the port-a-cath. We should be getting a date within the next two weeks.

Thank you for the great meals, great conversations, and love and support that I have been receiving from all of you. I love you all!!

Sunday, March 8

Hi everybody, I was very excited to feel well enough to go to church on Sunday morning. I was overwhelmed with the "open arms" I was welcomed with by so many! The words to the song took on a whole new meaning from my perspective: ie., "God's People Caring For One Another", "God giving us health, peace, etc." and really caused my tears to flow.

That was the "outing for the day" so I came home and rested and had visitors sit around my room the rest of the day.

I felt so blessed to be able to enjoy my church family and lots of friends and family this weekend.

Saturday, March 7

Today has been a GREAT day! Praise God! Being a little sceptical as to whether I could withstand an hour of sitting in a chair long enough, Julie did get me out of the house for a couple of hours to go and get a manicure and pedicure with Kelsey. It was just what I needed!! And then I was able to enjoy a very nice lunch "on my couch", provided by Kelsey and Julie, my "weekend caretakers", with no ill effects. Looking forward to a relaxing evening. Love and blessings to all of you.

Friday, March 6, 2009

Yesterday and today were pretty good days. Yesterday's radiation went well. Had some out of town visitors and tried to sit up as much as the day before which made me a little more tired. Had a slight "plumbing" problem which did not correct itself quickly, so endured that until late last night.

Today's radiation went well also where I wanted to just "skip" out of there when I was done, knowing that I have eight treatments down and only two to go! I went without vomiting for a couple of hours, then endulged in an entire apple, which just didn't want to stay down. I spent the rest of the day enjoying nice phone conversations, visiting with family and friends, and rejoicing at how the Lord is blessing me through this trial. I am still not able to sit for long periods of time but have found a comfortable laying down position on the couch -- please pray for that situation and also for strength to be able to walk a little more. I hope you're all well and thank you for continuing to support me through your prayers, blog comments, and all of your special acts of kindness!

Wednesday, March 4,2009

Hi everybody, Sorry I haven't had much chance to write recently.  For those of
you who don't know, my mom--who has been my caretaker--promised my dog last
Wednesday that she would take him for a walk.  She is a very loyal person and
had to "keep her promise", so she took him for a walk in the dark and fell and
broke her left wrist.  We now have to have a chauffer to drive us to all of our
radiation appointments.

Yesterday (3/3/09), I had probably the best time a person should have at the
hospital, having to have my liver biopsy!  We walked in to the most gracious,
loving, kind nurse you could imagine and every chance she got, she kissed my
forehead and told me she was praying for me.  When I was wheeled over to the
room for my biopsy (and I was not sedated),  I served as the "horn" on the bed
and shouted out (not too loudly), "Honk, Honk, would you please tell that man to
get out of the way!"  The man was my dad and he was looking for us anyway.

The biopsy went very smoothly and everyone on the hospital staff was extremely
kind and my day was one of the best of this current trial.

Today is  3/4/09 and probably my 2nd best day in this trial.  I had my 6th
radiation treatment and many "firsts".  Today was the first day I "walked" into
my radiation treatment with NO walker; the first time I was able to "sit" and
wait for my treatment (instead of having to lay down on my back); and my first
treatment that I have had without vomiting!!!! (I have had to endure 4-5 hours
of nausea and vomiting following each previous radiation treatment.)  This is
also the first time I've written this blog myself--previously, I have only been
able to dictate it from laying on my back.  Needless to say, I was VERY HAPPY
today!!!!!!!!!!!

I hope all of you are well, happy and as blessed as I am!

I LOVE YOU!  Jana

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Wow! I got a shower today...and I feel like a new person! I did a pretty good job eating today also. The food and the rest have helped me to gain a little more strength. I have a ways to go but it's a little better than yesterday. I gotta get geared up for my next radiation treatment tomorrow morning. Julie came to play "nurse" this weekend and we had a pretty good time together. I will be going in Tuesday morning to receive my liver biopsy at 8:00. So, as always, keep up the prayers. There can never be too many. Love you all!
Jana

Saturday, February 28, 2009

Today was a welcome relief with no radiation treatments. However, I spent most of the day sleeping and trying to eat whatever I could to restore some of my energy back. I am very weak and the radiation really takes a toll on my body. I was able to eat a couple of eggs, some jamba juice, a little chicken, and some sherbert. I'm praying that tomorrow will bring a little pain relief and a little more energy back to my body. As much as I would like to be writing these updates, I just wanted to clarify that my family is writing them while I dictate to them or just leave it up to them all together. I will have another radiation treatment on Monday and then will go in for a liver biopsy Tuesday morning. Once they do the liver biopsy, they will know how to proceed with the treatment to cure that cancer as well. I thank God every day for all the friends and family that I have praying for me. I don't know what I would do without you!

Friday, February 27, 2009

Yeah, it's Friday. My last treatment for this week! We didn't get our treatment until 11:30 today instead of 7:30. It took my stomach awhile longer to settle today than usual. But, I was able to enjoy a RazzMaTazz Jamba Juice which was delicious!! I'm looking forward to the weekend with no treaments and catching up on some well needed rest. Continue your prayers because that is where I gather my strength. I love you all!

Thursday, Feb 26, 2009

Today I had my third radiation treatment. Unfortunately, I have not been able to hold down any food for the past couple of days because the area being radiated is effecting my digestive tract, causing me to be extremely weak. I continue to treasure your prayers and enjoy reading your comments. Thank you for your care and concern.

I was anxious to get my radiation treatment and received the first of 10 today. I was hoping it would be more relief than it actually was but the nausea and vomiting did not make for a wonderful day. I am looking forward to tomorrow when I will have my second radiation treatment and my first infusion of zometa to help get the calcium back in my bones and hopefully more relief from the pain tomorrow.

Thank you for all of your prayers and please continue. I love you all. Jana

My Story

Hello all of my wonderful, caring friends and family. This is just to keep you updated on my situation. After a month of some extreme back pains involving chiropractors, doctors, etc. I finally gave in and went to the Emergency Room at the hospital. From there I was instructed to obtain some tests which have led to a diagnosis of cancer in various areas of my bones and multiple tumors in my liver. We are awaiting a date for a biopsy of my liver and have an appointment with the radiologist Tues, Feb. 24th, to determine radiation treatments to the bones to alleviate the pain.

I want to thank each one of you for your concern and I truly appreciate the calls and all of your expressions of kindness. The Lord got me through this once before and will faithfully get me through this again. I love you all and will keep you updated. Jana