Not Finished with Me at Siteman

God is not finished with me yet at Siteman radiology.

Today was a very unusual day to say the least. After many phone calls and emails with doctors and a scientist from California, my treatment saga has taken a turn.

It has been discussed that when a patient has radiation in a certain location that location cannot handle anymore ever again. The body is very sensitive to radiation. Dr. Linette previously said that if I am were to stop treatment he strongly encouraged me to finish out the 30 radiation treatments. He said I could "twist his arm" about stopping the chemo. I can always do chemo in the years to come but, I can't always have radiation as an option.

So after much consideration, I am going to continue the RT without the chemo till Friday, February 9. Dr. Simpson has agreed to this also. (if you can remember he was strongly opposed to having RT without the chemo in the beginning) I had RT today at 2:45pm.

Looking back over today I was able to "lay out my fleece" so to speak with the doctors. My desire was not to continue the chemo. It was granted. That was answer enough for me.

I can't explain this change although I have stated previously that I am open to God's intervention daily. I don't presume to be a doctor. I don't want to be a fool. I will commit to RT for the full time. My hair loss will be from the right ear forward. What fun that will be to be bald in just one section! The hair might not grow back for a few months. My hair adventure awaits! The other immediate side effect will be significant fatigue. It will last at least 4 weeks post RT as well.

I am thankful for a concerned doctor friend in Texas who sent a very genuine email. I am also thankful for other friends who have supported us with all the decisions & options.

Brain cancer is unique. The brain has a separate immune system from the rest of the body. Amazing! Not one treatment outcome is the best! I will continue to use nutrition along with the natural compounds we have been researching with the RT and beyond.

Sorry to take you on such a roller coaster. On a funny note - I guess this makes the blog more interesting. Possibly more addicting to some of you. Ha ha ha

Cancer is like an investment portfolio. You try to pick the best option not knowing the outcome. But, (that is the emphasized word) as christians we have the Lord guiding our investment portfolio. Thank you to G.C. for this analogy.

As for Joe he was truly touched. I went to the Hope Lodge at 2 pm today to deliver the coat. I read to him the post I wrote about him. He and I were both crying in the eating area. Many others were listening & crying as well. Before I opened up the box for him he said he knew what it was. I said to him "How are you so sure?" He just smiled. I am delighted to tell you that it fit perfectly and he was wearing it with much pride. He even motioned ladies that were walking around to look at his new coat! The buttons have anchors on them. So cute! I continued to talk to the people around the area. (no surprise to all of you) Joe piped in with all the ladies cackling "Did you know I am a retired master sergeant?" I was so happy to hear him recount of his joys. Please be sure to click on the December 29 post of Joe. A Lodge employee posted Joes reaction after I left.

Thanks for your continued prayers. This is a daily walk.
Just glad to not take chemo at this time.
kate