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-

More News

The March 2009 MRI compared to March 2008 showed no change!

Last chemo cycle starts tonight & runs through Tuesday.
Cole's birthday sleepover is tonight as well.

k-

Cautiously Elated

Todays oncology visit proved to be one of mixed emotions. Many changes are occuring in the next few months. I am cautiously elated. Cannot explain any further than the following.

The March MRI scan was "Couldn't ask for a better report." After questioning the doctor about the comparison date (not to rain on my parade) of December 08. He agreed it needed to be compared to a later date like March 08 (1 year). He doesn't have any concerns. Ishould hear from him sometime about the new comparison. So in turn that leads me to the chemo update. SHOCKER!

My eyes probably popped out of my head when Dr. Needles questioned the duration of my chemo. One year in January. He said he would like for me to discontinue the chemo after March due to studies that show it is not more beneficial to stay on it longer. Dave asked if Temodar is a option if there was a possible cancer reoccurrence. The doctor said oh yes, but first a biopsy would need to be performed. (Okay boys - lets not talk about cancer returning here!)

In short:
No more monthly bloodwork, chemo stops after March.
Next MRI & bloodwork is in June along with a doctors appointment.

Earlier this morning I was reminded of the following Bible verse prior to my appointment. God ordains my days. All news is up to Him and Him alone.

This is the day which the LORD has made;

Let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Psalm 118:24

Another good verse

I will rejoice and be glad in Your loving kindness, Because You have seen my affliction; You have known the troubles of my soul,

Psalm 31:7

Carter's turn... & Tuesday

Carter has had a fever and other symptoms for most of the weekend and did not go to school today. At least Carter is the last child to get the flu like virus in our family. Stuart is better.

Tomorrow is my oncologist appointment in the morning. I will know my MRI results from last Thursday.

k-

Tis the season

It is flu season at our home. After a visit to the pediatrician today, Stuart was confirmed having the official flu. No strep thankfully. Fever is being controlled by tylenol & advil. He was up every four hours last night with his fever. We both need a nap.

I also went to a Walgreeens take care clinic this morning after my MRI to get tested for strep. Negative! I am so thankful.

A week and a half later...

It took a good 9 days for Stuart to get the bug that has been visiting our home. He came down with a fever this morning at home. He is miserable.

My mom will be watching him tomorrow during my MRI. He normally attends school on Thursdays. I am considering rescheduling my scan to the weekend while Dave is home. I will see how Stuart fairs tonight. He may need to see the pediatrician tomorrow to get tested for strep if the pain / fever meds don't help.

I'll keep you posted,
k-

March MRI, etc.

An update on the next few weeks:

Tomorrow, Thursday is my MRI along with bloodwork. - Want a clear scan!
Results will be given next Tuesday, March 10 during my oncologist appointment.
March chemo will be Friday, March 13 - 17 pending my bloodwork results.

Cole's 9th birthday is Wednesday, March 11. The school is off half day! I am so looking forward to his special day. He has requested burgers & hot dogs on the grill. Hmm a cold March grilling?
He plans on having a sleepover that Friday. Carter will be at a retreat with his Sunday school class. Little Stu will enjoy the third grade boy sleepover party. Sleeping bags, cake, boys, games, What fun! Dave will stay up late with them as I need my sleep due to chemo.

Chat later-
k-