All Clear!

The June MRI shows no change. I will have my next MRI in 3 months before my oncologist appointment on September 11. No blood work will have to be done. Like that. Actually, I like ALL OF IT! Dr. Needles was in a cheery mood today. After I asked what is to be done from here? He wanted / thought he would be getting more questions from me. I just said "Haven't I asked enough? I actually am just glad to not see you in three months." He laughed and jokingly said I hurt his feelings. Boo hoo, go on to your next patient.

Thinking about celebrating at the zoo with the boys tomorrow to see the new stingray exhibit.

Thank you for going on this journey with me,
k-

Cancerland

The title is a little off but, I couldn't think of what to call this one...

Today my church cancer support group met. We meet on the first Sunday of the month. Everyone has different cancers yet similar struggles & trials. Some spouses also come to the meeting. It is great encouragement.

Yes, my MRI along with blood work were on Saturday. Tuesday the results will be made known by my oncologist, Dr. Needles. (on a side note: every time I write Needles, I chuckle and think it is quite odd to have a doctor with that sort of name-aghhh. Ok, on to the post...) That will hopefully be the time I will know how he (you know who) wants to proceed with my care post chemo. Scans every 3 months? is my guess. Blood work was taken during chemo to monitor the WBC. Brain cancers do not unfortunately exhibit "markers". Scans are the most informative. I will try to post the information as time allows after Tuesday. Our prayer is that it is clear - no change from previous scans.

I have been enjoying summer with the boys. We have gone twice to the library and only once to the pool due to weather. My fatigue is getting somewhat better. I am tired mid day but I have always been that way. Brain cancer did not bring that on. I have to rest for about 20 minutes after lunch. Stuart is slowing cutting out his quiet time which is making some days difficult. On those days, Dave (to no surprise) has been great to help so much at night when I am oh so tired and want to expire by 8pm. Please pray for his stamina & energy as he is doing double time.

This past weekend was a bustle. Carter's 11th birthday celebration was at Nascar speed park on Friday with friends. Lazer tag, go carts and cookie cake you cannot go wrong. Last night Dave & I hosted some of my moms friends for dinner to surprise & celebrate her 60th birthday which is mid June. It was great!
Thanks for checking in,

k-

Schools Out!

Today is the last day of school. Summer here we come. Stuart's last day was yesterday. He was trying to understand why he won't be returning next week. At dinner he was given a lengthy "four year terminology" explanation for him to hopefully understand. Carter and Cole are so ready for summer. Mom... I am not so sure. It will be a summer of pool, library, pool, library, family trip to Indiana for Dave's high school reunion, outside fun, pool, library (you get the picture). Gotta keep them engaged. Carter is attending a summer camp in Illinois for approximately 5 days in late July. Cole is not interested in any way possible leaving home. He is my home body which is just fine with me.

Need to make breakfast, I'm taking the boys to school. Busy morning!

Quiet Day

Just wanting to check in to say hello to you and hope your day was one of quietness.

Today has been one of rest for me. The heavy rains last night gave way to canceled ball games for today. Although, Cole had team pics early this morning. Thankfully, I was able to plant my flowers this afternoon. More to go for my back patio containers. Are you not amazed to see the beautiful colors God allows us to enjoy in creation?

Carter & I took the time this afternoon to plan his 11th birthday. Whoa. Eleven years in early June. I am happy to be here to enjoy his upcoming day.

Thank you for praying continually for my evening energy and the upcoming June cancer stuff. On the MRI - Need a "no change" report. I really desire to know how the doctor will proceed from here since I haven't been on chemo since March. Scans / blood work every X months? What is to come... ???

kate

Evening Umph

We recently returned from our vacation. It was great being able to spend good family time together without any schedule to adhere to. The boys love our tradition of going to a local ice cream hot spot, Royal Scoop. We went four times during the week. Yes, even before our meals. Vacation is great! Dave and I also celebrated our 13 years of marriage on May 4 while in Florida. Looking forward to year 14 with him. I am blessed.
Lately I have needed some extra energy during the evening hours. Umph is desired. I really tucker out by 7:30. If it is a good day 8:02 pm. I thought :02 sounded good. ;) ; ) :)

June is fast approaching so here are some prayerful dates for you.

Saturday, June 6 is my MRI & bloodwork
Tuesday, June 9 see oncologist with results

kate

The Lords love

Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.

Lamentations 3:22 - 23

Easter & Stu zoo date

Easter 2009

Stu at the zoo with mom

Time does fly!

Easter visitors.... baseball...Zoo days (when the weather is NOT raining)

Last Friday, Stuart & I ventured to the zoo. He was elated once there. Stu has been neglected in the excursions (like I did with the older ones). I often went on "field trips" with Carter & Cole to expand their horizons. My computer is not allowing me to crop pictures so you got the real deal above.

Cancer update: Saturday, June 6 - MRI & blood work taken
Tuesday, June 9 - oncology appointment - results given

A great quote...

No place the will of God can take you that the grace of God cannot sustain you.
Corrie ten Boom

Hope your spring is going well,
k-

Life

I have been thinking about if & how I will continue with the blog.

I want it to be intentional so all know that there is life with brain cancer. A new life. Since having the cancer diagnosis our family has gone through continual adjustments.

I will do my best as family time allows to blog post. Thank you for your patience.

A friend recently asked how she could continue to pray...
1. Energy for me - I am attempting to not nap as much. Also I am walking 3x during the week. Dave thinks it is two miles. We will see. All I know it has been a long winter. Need good weather.
2. Time Management in the house
3. Great family togetherness

CANCER INFORMATION: June will be my next MRI & bloodwork before the June 9 oncology appointment.

k-

Ciao, Adios, etc...

Today was a rough one. I had wanted to give you a meaningful update but could not due to extreme fatigue. I over did it yesterDAY. After helping at school in the afternoon I was wiped out. Today was the absolute worst day after being on chemo. Oh well... on to the post. It is a little choppy. Bear with my thoughts... chemo brain.

Saying goodbye to chemo doesn't mean goodbye to the cancer fight. I mentioned not long ago that I was somewhat of mixed emotions ending the chemo. Yes, excited but also weary of what is to come. I was totally reminded (I am a slow learner) of God never leaving my side no matter what is to come in the months ahead. Fear did grip me last week.
'Do not fear, for I am with you;
Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you, surely I will help you,
Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.'
Isaiah 41:10

It is a reminder that being off chemo, Temodar is one step closer to being known as "in remission". This is another branch in my journey of brain cancer. I am confident He will carry me through. A little fearful but glad, so so glad He is with me.

"I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing. John 15:5

Thank you for all YOU did in the past years. I am humbled by the hands of Jesus through you. Prayer, meals, notes/emails of encouragement, watching children, carpool, prayer, friendship, a listening ear and prayer, are a portion of your love to me and my family. I am loved. You are loved.

kate

The VERY LAST DAY!

TONIGHT
IS
MY
LAST
NIGHT
OF
CHEMO!!!!

DID YOU HEAR?
LAST NIGHT!

This month it has been tolerable.
Chat later.
k-