Today I completed #11 out of 16 radiation treatments, plus had a second X-ray to make sure they are on target. So far, so good. This is a much less "invasive" therapy than the chemo. So far the side effects are a little bit tender skin and moderate fatigue. The end is in close range...
Okay, so hair is growing in. Which makes wearing the wig/liner like putting a nylon on a stubbly hairy leg. Not the most comfortable thing in the world. When I leave my half+ day of work and head out to my car (usually race out, since I'm almost always close to being late for my appt.), I kind of look both ways & whip that thing off my head & quickly replace it with a nice sporty hat. Instead of hat head, I am experiencing wig head, which is a red line all around the edge of where that liner sits. Oh well, it could be worse! Oh, the wig also squeezes my glasses against my head, so my vision is not always right on, either.
We are gearing up for back to school & back to normal life sometime soon! The radiation oncologist and the nurse practitioner both recommend easing back into full time. So, continue with 1/2 days the first week in Sept, then 3/4 the next week, and then full time after that. I'll see Dr. Bellairs again on Thursday and she'll formalize that plan.
The boys are getting kind of "antsy" and I think they are ready to get back into the learning routine. And they'll enjoy seeing more of their friends, too (but probably not that "no talking" part of the classroom!). They are hoping for excellent teachers, but it will be difficult to equal or top last years!
We are also planning on the MN State Fair next week (starts this Thursday already!). We have tickets to the Mark Schultz concert. If you are not familiar with him, he's a great Christian singer/story-teller. Kevin loves his songs and sings along often ("He's My Son" and "Letters from War" are two well-known ones, yes, that tend to make me cry!).
Mike and I went out to dinner at Ristorante' Luci last Saturday evening while my mom watched the boys. This was to celebrate the end of chemo!! I had to wait until my taste buds were back in action. I even enjoyed my first glass of wine - a nice Chianti - since my diagnosis. It was very nice - not at all like turpentine (the dietitian warned me it could taste that way during chemo).
Mike just took a fire call, so I better to find out what those boys are up to outside! Since it was close to 90 degrees today, I think water may be involved!
Thanks again to everyone for the continued positive thoughts & prayers! You all have helped me to keep on moving to the light at the end of the tunnel, which is finally in view! Blessings to you today & every day! :O)
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Final phase....
Just a quick update (do I ever actually do that - keep it quick?)...
I have my "dry run" radiation treatment tomorrow around noon. Then I start the real thing on Tuesday. As I mentioned previously, this course of treatment will run for 3 weeks and a day (Canadian protocol) with a 25% higher dose (vs the 6 week protocol). This radiation should seek and destroy any remaining microscopic cancer cells to help prevent recurrence.
The current plan is for me to work a half day, in the office, then go have my treatment and head home. Because the primary side effect is fatigue, I'll probably schedule an afternoon nap! Just writing about this brought on a hot flash! Funny how anything somewhat "stressful" brings on one of those little buggers! If all the components of the office part become too exhausting, I'll work those daily hours from home.
This last week was our annual family vacation. For a variety of reasons, we didn't make it to the Wisconsin Dells this year (sorry boys!). But, we did have a 3 day visit to the Duluth area at the Edgewater Waterpark Resort. We took in many sights including the Split Rock Lighthouse, the William A. Irvin retired cargo ship, the Vista Fleet harbor boat tour, Gooseberry Falls, and watched some HUGE barges come into the harbor. I'm talking 1004 feet long! Enormous! Overall, we had a good time. Ate at many nice restaurants - so nice not to cook and clean up! The boys liked the waterpark and the seagulls the best!
I will say that I was very surprised to find that my legs were not up for the Gooseberry Falls hiking (just walking, really)! Turned out I had far less energy than I thought, so "Mom" kind of slowed things down this time. I'm still dealing with quite a bit of neuropathy in my left foot, which doesn't help. I am hoping/praying that will resolve sooner than later. My hair is definitely starting to grow again, which is great news! :O)
One of my dear friends had a little gathering on Friday evening, and since all of my boys were at Cub Scout Camp this weekend, I was especially free to attend. It's such good medicine to just laugh and chat (and eat!)! I was, however, the BIG loser at Polish Poker! Oh well, someone had to fill that role!
I will close for now, with again, so much thankfulness for all of you! One more quick quote: "It's not how long you live that matters, but how you live." My goal is to live such that I will hear "Well done, good and faithful servant!" when I move onward and upward to my eventual heavenly home. There is so much to learn and experience - I thank so many of you for providing a great example of the kind of caring and compassion Jesus showed us! God bless!
I have my "dry run" radiation treatment tomorrow around noon. Then I start the real thing on Tuesday. As I mentioned previously, this course of treatment will run for 3 weeks and a day (Canadian protocol) with a 25% higher dose (vs the 6 week protocol). This radiation should seek and destroy any remaining microscopic cancer cells to help prevent recurrence.
The current plan is for me to work a half day, in the office, then go have my treatment and head home. Because the primary side effect is fatigue, I'll probably schedule an afternoon nap! Just writing about this brought on a hot flash! Funny how anything somewhat "stressful" brings on one of those little buggers! If all the components of the office part become too exhausting, I'll work those daily hours from home.
This last week was our annual family vacation. For a variety of reasons, we didn't make it to the Wisconsin Dells this year (sorry boys!). But, we did have a 3 day visit to the Duluth area at the Edgewater Waterpark Resort. We took in many sights including the Split Rock Lighthouse, the William A. Irvin retired cargo ship, the Vista Fleet harbor boat tour, Gooseberry Falls, and watched some HUGE barges come into the harbor. I'm talking 1004 feet long! Enormous! Overall, we had a good time. Ate at many nice restaurants - so nice not to cook and clean up! The boys liked the waterpark and the seagulls the best!
I will say that I was very surprised to find that my legs were not up for the Gooseberry Falls hiking (just walking, really)! Turned out I had far less energy than I thought, so "Mom" kind of slowed things down this time. I'm still dealing with quite a bit of neuropathy in my left foot, which doesn't help. I am hoping/praying that will resolve sooner than later. My hair is definitely starting to grow again, which is great news! :O)
One of my dear friends had a little gathering on Friday evening, and since all of my boys were at Cub Scout Camp this weekend, I was especially free to attend. It's such good medicine to just laugh and chat (and eat!)! I was, however, the BIG loser at Polish Poker! Oh well, someone had to fill that role!
I will close for now, with again, so much thankfulness for all of you! One more quick quote: "It's not how long you live that matters, but how you live." My goal is to live such that I will hear "Well done, good and faithful servant!" when I move onward and upward to my eventual heavenly home. There is so much to learn and experience - I thank so many of you for providing a great example of the kind of caring and compassion Jesus showed us! God bless!
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Sloth...and more
Have you ever just felt like a muddle-headed sloth, sort of slogging one foot in front of the other the best you can? Eyes twitching constantly and not a lot of feeling in your legs or toes? Well, that's about how I feel today...and that's the honest truth! Not that I am in the practice of telling anything but the whole truth...just thought I'd share. It was surprising every time I stood up today - oh yeah, my limbs are not working properly. Glad this is the LAST and FINAL chemo and once I get back up to speed (there is NO speed happening today!) I won't get drenched back down again.
And then there is Vitamin D. I asked again this last time at the oncologist if they ever ran that blood test I had requested at the advice of the dietitian. She found the results from back in May. In a normal range of 25-80, my level was 27. So, on the very low end. Granted, this was before I started my daily-if-possible routine of absorbing some sunlight, so I don't know my levels now. I've recently read many articles that have found the cause of mysterious and strange symptoms to be a Vitamin D deficiency (there was an article in today's Pioneer Press, by the way). We are at a disadvantage here in this northern state of MN - at least if you are a "winter wimpy" like I am - 15 minutes of head/hand/leg exposure between October and March is pretty much not going to happen! Supplements?
I really feel these health priorities couldn't be more important - don't let anything stand between you and good health choices - exercise, healthy food choices, purified water, vitamin levels, meditation, BREATHE. Reduce stress and make life changes when necessary to maintain balance. It's not easy - I "chose" some warm molten chocolate cake, vanilla ice cream, & hot fudge tonight at Applebee's for Mike's 40th (he just loves when they sing & clap!! NOT!). An okay choice just for today - guilt isn't good either. And please don't let anyone try to instill guilt in you for making these positive choices for your life, maybe just because they might not be in their list of priorities. I let many of these just get away from me before this life-changing event known as cancer came into my life. With all I've learned, there is really no going back.
Yesterday I finished reading "The Shack" by William P. Young, as was recommended by our pastor. There were many good "learnings" in this novel. One is that we are not truly "free" when we keep trying to do things in our own human strength - without God/Jesus/Holy Spirit nothing can really be accomplished. With Him, ALL things are possible! Even life circumstances can be very different when we realize we don't have to try to understand how or why everything has happened - we just need to trust - in ALL things. This is huge for me. I was constantly saying, "Yes, but what about...?" Rather than just resting in Him and trusting fully. I'm sure this will be an on-going lesson, but I'm glad it's a path I've started walking along, and I'm very happy I'm not walking it alone. If we say "God is good, all the time!" then we must believe this.
Another quote I read is, "If anything is important, than everything is important."
Oh, and the mortality rate for humans is 100%, just in case you forgot. Everyone will eventually die and there is nothing we can do about that - just live the very best we can while we are alive! And we are alive every day that we have breath. Bernie Siegel's books share an abundance of good information and reminders.
Got a great email today, too: "When God leads you to the edge of the cliff, trust Him fully and let go, only 1 of 2 things will happen, either He'll catch you when you fall, or He'll teach you how to fly! God is going to shift things around for you today and let things work in your favor. God closes doors no man can open & God opens doors no man can close. Have a blessed day and remember to be a blessing...(thanks, Kim!)
I hope I have been a blessing to someone today - I know many of you have been a blessing to me! I apologize if this post was like a winding mountain road today, but sometimes I just have to go along for the ride, even when I feel like I might go careening off the edge! I appreciate each and every one of you and your positive thoughts, emails, cards, prayers. Remember that you are wrapped in love at all times and that God is especially fond of YOU! (Another great quote from The Shack.)
And then there is Vitamin D. I asked again this last time at the oncologist if they ever ran that blood test I had requested at the advice of the dietitian. She found the results from back in May. In a normal range of 25-80, my level was 27. So, on the very low end. Granted, this was before I started my daily-if-possible routine of absorbing some sunlight, so I don't know my levels now. I've recently read many articles that have found the cause of mysterious and strange symptoms to be a Vitamin D deficiency (there was an article in today's Pioneer Press, by the way). We are at a disadvantage here in this northern state of MN - at least if you are a "winter wimpy" like I am - 15 minutes of head/hand/leg exposure between October and March is pretty much not going to happen! Supplements?
I really feel these health priorities couldn't be more important - don't let anything stand between you and good health choices - exercise, healthy food choices, purified water, vitamin levels, meditation, BREATHE. Reduce stress and make life changes when necessary to maintain balance. It's not easy - I "chose" some warm molten chocolate cake, vanilla ice cream, & hot fudge tonight at Applebee's for Mike's 40th (he just loves when they sing & clap!! NOT!). An okay choice just for today - guilt isn't good either. And please don't let anyone try to instill guilt in you for making these positive choices for your life, maybe just because they might not be in their list of priorities. I let many of these just get away from me before this life-changing event known as cancer came into my life. With all I've learned, there is really no going back.
Yesterday I finished reading "The Shack" by William P. Young, as was recommended by our pastor. There were many good "learnings" in this novel. One is that we are not truly "free" when we keep trying to do things in our own human strength - without God/Jesus/Holy Spirit nothing can really be accomplished. With Him, ALL things are possible! Even life circumstances can be very different when we realize we don't have to try to understand how or why everything has happened - we just need to trust - in ALL things. This is huge for me. I was constantly saying, "Yes, but what about...?" Rather than just resting in Him and trusting fully. I'm sure this will be an on-going lesson, but I'm glad it's a path I've started walking along, and I'm very happy I'm not walking it alone. If we say "God is good, all the time!" then we must believe this.
Another quote I read is, "If anything is important, than everything is important."
Oh, and the mortality rate for humans is 100%, just in case you forgot. Everyone will eventually die and there is nothing we can do about that - just live the very best we can while we are alive! And we are alive every day that we have breath. Bernie Siegel's books share an abundance of good information and reminders.
Got a great email today, too: "When God leads you to the edge of the cliff, trust Him fully and let go, only 1 of 2 things will happen, either He'll catch you when you fall, or He'll teach you how to fly! God is going to shift things around for you today and let things work in your favor. God closes doors no man can open & God opens doors no man can close. Have a blessed day and remember to be a blessing...(thanks, Kim!)
I hope I have been a blessing to someone today - I know many of you have been a blessing to me! I apologize if this post was like a winding mountain road today, but sometimes I just have to go along for the ride, even when I feel like I might go careening off the edge! I appreciate each and every one of you and your positive thoughts, emails, cards, prayers. Remember that you are wrapped in love at all times and that God is especially fond of YOU! (Another great quote from The Shack.)
Friday, July 18, 2008
6 out of 6!
Chemotherapy number 6 out of 6 is complete! Yeah! Once the side effects have come & gone, it will be time to celebrate! Sonja & I did get a nice Dunn Bros Ice Crema drink yesterday, so that started it off. My counts were good - thanks to all for your specific prayers! I am working on 3 and 4 hours of sleep for the last two nights, so please forgive any nonsensical ramblings...
And....it appears I'm starting to have a tiny bit of baby fuzzy hair growing! The Nurse Practitioner even rubbed my head! So, that's good. Now, to determine what texture and color (better not be gray!) I'm going to get. Hopefully it won't decide to fall out one last time....
My next step is to research some good radiation creams for that stage of treatment. I have several in mind, so I feel better about the upcoming radiation. I anticipate less interruptive side effects, such as the foggy chemo brain, lack of taste buds, super dry mouth, and steroid crashes resulting in major fatigue.
I've found several good cookbooks, with some suggestions from a neighbor. This weekend my sister is joining me again to hopefully cook up something for the week. The Best Light Recipe cookbook by Cook's Illustrated has a ton a great cooking information describing how they made really delicious recipes lighter without compromising taste or texture. I think we'll give a couple of those a whirl (okay, she does most of the work & I mostly sit back!).
I also wanted to note that Mike's 40th birthday is next Tuesday, the 22nd. I'm afraid we won't be throwing a big party this year, for a variety of reasons (some very obvious!). Maybe we'll have a party for his 41st....what a young pup!
Alec completed Safety Camp yesterday, and I did make it to his graduation ceremony. Passed on the great looking cake, though. He learned a lot and had some fun! He starts his baseball tournaments this evening, which will continue throughout the weekend (for awhile anyway!). I'll probably miss most of those games, unfortunately.
A prayer request. Our long-time day care provider, Chris, found out early this week that her sweet little 3 month old grandson passed away from SIDS. Little Austin was born to her son, David, and his wife, Megan, on April 8th. This entire family could certainly use prayers during this extremely difficult and tragic time.
We so, so, so appreciate all the help that you all have been offering and providing! It's really nice when the boys can be off having fun elsewhere without worrying about me sitting in a chair not being their "normal" mom. We're hoping to plan a little "caregiver" get together once the radiation is past. I'm thinking a little Cossetta Eventi Mostaccioli Con Ricotta on the deck! :O) As always, we cherish your prayers and positive thoughts! This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it! Have a blessed weekend!
And....it appears I'm starting to have a tiny bit of baby fuzzy hair growing! The Nurse Practitioner even rubbed my head! So, that's good. Now, to determine what texture and color (better not be gray!) I'm going to get. Hopefully it won't decide to fall out one last time....
My next step is to research some good radiation creams for that stage of treatment. I have several in mind, so I feel better about the upcoming radiation. I anticipate less interruptive side effects, such as the foggy chemo brain, lack of taste buds, super dry mouth, and steroid crashes resulting in major fatigue.
I've found several good cookbooks, with some suggestions from a neighbor. This weekend my sister is joining me again to hopefully cook up something for the week. The Best Light Recipe cookbook by Cook's Illustrated has a ton a great cooking information describing how they made really delicious recipes lighter without compromising taste or texture. I think we'll give a couple of those a whirl (okay, she does most of the work & I mostly sit back!).
I also wanted to note that Mike's 40th birthday is next Tuesday, the 22nd. I'm afraid we won't be throwing a big party this year, for a variety of reasons (some very obvious!). Maybe we'll have a party for his 41st....what a young pup!
Alec completed Safety Camp yesterday, and I did make it to his graduation ceremony. Passed on the great looking cake, though. He learned a lot and had some fun! He starts his baseball tournaments this evening, which will continue throughout the weekend (for awhile anyway!). I'll probably miss most of those games, unfortunately.
A prayer request. Our long-time day care provider, Chris, found out early this week that her sweet little 3 month old grandson passed away from SIDS. Little Austin was born to her son, David, and his wife, Megan, on April 8th. This entire family could certainly use prayers during this extremely difficult and tragic time.
We so, so, so appreciate all the help that you all have been offering and providing! It's really nice when the boys can be off having fun elsewhere without worrying about me sitting in a chair not being their "normal" mom. We're hoping to plan a little "caregiver" get together once the radiation is past. I'm thinking a little Cossetta Eventi Mostaccioli Con Ricotta on the deck! :O) As always, we cherish your prayers and positive thoughts! This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it! Have a blessed weekend!
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Almost there....
Sorry so long since my last posting. I hope everyone had a nice 4th of July. I came in the house early from our neighbors' annual party & watched a Christmas in July movie. I did watch the fireworks from inside.
Only 5 more days until my FINAL chemotherapy treatment! Number 5 really was exhausting. I again took extra steroids to ward off any itch/hive problem. They really caused some major fatigue and "foggy" brain - for virtually the entire next week! I didn't work too much during that time; I could barely speak coherently on the phone! And it resulted in me having that puffy "bulldog" bumpy cheek appearance, which was fairly disheartening whenever I looked in the mirror. It has finally subsided....I just might reduce those steroids myself this next time...Oh, and the hot flashes & night sweats are no picnic either (unless it's a picnic in the blazing hot sun!). Those may or may not be permanent...we can "treat" them once I'm finished with the chemo treatments...do I feel old???
I also had my initial appointment with Dr. Bellairs, the Radiation Oncologist, this last Thursday. First we (Sonja & I) met with the nurse, Kim, who was just wonderful & explained things - even flipped through a little photo album to show me what to expect. After discussing options, we are going with the "Canadian Protocol" which involves daily radiation treatments for 3 weeks and one day, rather than daily for 6 weeks (I get the weekends off either way). Each dose will be about 25% higher than if using the traditional protocol, but she anticipates fairly similar side effects, which will most likely consist of fatigue and a "sunburn" in the treatment area. Both the doctor and the nurse cautioned that the fatigue will build up over a period of time, and then it will also require a similar period of time to gain my energy back (we're talking weeks on both ends). She said I'm starting at a "deficit" coming off of chemotherapy and it's own brand of fatigue. In any case, my first "dry run" day is August 4th, and then, assuming I don't have to miss any because of the flu or anything, my final one is 16 treatments later on August 26th. There is an end in sight! The oncologist anticipates I'll be able to work half days or maybe a little more during radiation. I also had a CT scan and got 3 tattoos! These will help ensure the machine is lined up correctly. I asked if that's how it felt to get a regular tattoo - if so, I'm not ever getting one! That would hurt! Ouch! :O)
Yesterday was the 2nd annual Cottage Grove Relay for Life. My mom & step dad were up, Mike's mom, sister, and niece came over, and my good friend, Coreen, joined me for the caregiver lap right after the survivor lap. They really do honor the survivors at these events. It's just strange to think I'll be a survivor every year, not just this year. No wonder these events grow & grow every year. There were people that have been survivors from 3 months to 51 years! There seemed to be a good turn out and many teams had games & items for sale, and of course the Silent Auction was in action. They did, unfortunately, have to shut the whole thing down around 8:30 or so because of the impending nasty weather conditions. So, no luminarias lit around the track this year. I would love to be more involved next year and organize a team to walk and raise $ to fight cancer....so be thinking of joining me!! The more the merrier! The good news is that it's just across the street from our home (assuming it will be in the same location) and we wouldn't even have to use the good old Biffys!
This last Wednesday, I had 3 high school girlfriends come up to visit and take me and another good long time friend, Jane, to the Plymouth Playhouse to see "The Church Basement Ladies II: A Second Helping." We enjoyed dinner at the Green Mill first, and then had many good laughs. It was funny how very reminiscent the set was to the basement of the rural Iowa church I grew up in! Right down to that tall kitchen stool and the Wonder bread bags to cover the leaky boots in the winter (set in 1969-1970). Very fun! Thanks Anita, Pam, and Tammy! :O)
On this same day, Mike took and passed his final national EMT exam the first time through! Now he's official, and life can hopefully get a little bit back to normal, without as much studying for exams. Way to go!
Today was Kevin's baseball tournament, so we watched his game at 11:00. His team lost, so they are done for the season. Alec's tourney is next weekend, but I doubt I'll be feeling perky enough to make it to those games. Alec is also going to attend a local Safety Camp for 3 days this week, which sounds like it includes many great learning activities.
It seems like I'm getting busier and busier and not necessarily following all my healing routines like I should be. I'm hoping/planning to get back at that this week. Daily devotions, exercise, tea (I'm doing okay with that!), eating healthy, inspirational reading and music. I have to start planning how I'll accomplish this once I get back to the office (not sure exactly when yet). I need to keep using the reverse osmosis filtered water for drinking & for daily tea etc.. And I'll need to keep daily exercise in the mix as well. Some things to think about...
I will end for now and promise to post again soon! I want to thank everyone for your continued prayers and positive thoughts and helping hands and generous hearts! We've had so many wonderful helpful gifts in so many ways and I am so humbled and thankful. This could easily have been a nightmare experience without all of you - I pray blessings to each one of you!
Only 5 more days until my FINAL chemotherapy treatment! Number 5 really was exhausting. I again took extra steroids to ward off any itch/hive problem. They really caused some major fatigue and "foggy" brain - for virtually the entire next week! I didn't work too much during that time; I could barely speak coherently on the phone! And it resulted in me having that puffy "bulldog" bumpy cheek appearance, which was fairly disheartening whenever I looked in the mirror. It has finally subsided....I just might reduce those steroids myself this next time...Oh, and the hot flashes & night sweats are no picnic either (unless it's a picnic in the blazing hot sun!). Those may or may not be permanent...we can "treat" them once I'm finished with the chemo treatments...do I feel old???
I also had my initial appointment with Dr. Bellairs, the Radiation Oncologist, this last Thursday. First we (Sonja & I) met with the nurse, Kim, who was just wonderful & explained things - even flipped through a little photo album to show me what to expect. After discussing options, we are going with the "Canadian Protocol" which involves daily radiation treatments for 3 weeks and one day, rather than daily for 6 weeks (I get the weekends off either way). Each dose will be about 25% higher than if using the traditional protocol, but she anticipates fairly similar side effects, which will most likely consist of fatigue and a "sunburn" in the treatment area. Both the doctor and the nurse cautioned that the fatigue will build up over a period of time, and then it will also require a similar period of time to gain my energy back (we're talking weeks on both ends). She said I'm starting at a "deficit" coming off of chemotherapy and it's own brand of fatigue. In any case, my first "dry run" day is August 4th, and then, assuming I don't have to miss any because of the flu or anything, my final one is 16 treatments later on August 26th. There is an end in sight! The oncologist anticipates I'll be able to work half days or maybe a little more during radiation. I also had a CT scan and got 3 tattoos! These will help ensure the machine is lined up correctly. I asked if that's how it felt to get a regular tattoo - if so, I'm not ever getting one! That would hurt! Ouch! :O)
Yesterday was the 2nd annual Cottage Grove Relay for Life. My mom & step dad were up, Mike's mom, sister, and niece came over, and my good friend, Coreen, joined me for the caregiver lap right after the survivor lap. They really do honor the survivors at these events. It's just strange to think I'll be a survivor every year, not just this year. No wonder these events grow & grow every year. There were people that have been survivors from 3 months to 51 years! There seemed to be a good turn out and many teams had games & items for sale, and of course the Silent Auction was in action. They did, unfortunately, have to shut the whole thing down around 8:30 or so because of the impending nasty weather conditions. So, no luminarias lit around the track this year. I would love to be more involved next year and organize a team to walk and raise $ to fight cancer....so be thinking of joining me!! The more the merrier! The good news is that it's just across the street from our home (assuming it will be in the same location) and we wouldn't even have to use the good old Biffys!
This last Wednesday, I had 3 high school girlfriends come up to visit and take me and another good long time friend, Jane, to the Plymouth Playhouse to see "The Church Basement Ladies II: A Second Helping." We enjoyed dinner at the Green Mill first, and then had many good laughs. It was funny how very reminiscent the set was to the basement of the rural Iowa church I grew up in! Right down to that tall kitchen stool and the Wonder bread bags to cover the leaky boots in the winter (set in 1969-1970). Very fun! Thanks Anita, Pam, and Tammy! :O)
On this same day, Mike took and passed his final national EMT exam the first time through! Now he's official, and life can hopefully get a little bit back to normal, without as much studying for exams. Way to go!
Today was Kevin's baseball tournament, so we watched his game at 11:00. His team lost, so they are done for the season. Alec's tourney is next weekend, but I doubt I'll be feeling perky enough to make it to those games. Alec is also going to attend a local Safety Camp for 3 days this week, which sounds like it includes many great learning activities.
It seems like I'm getting busier and busier and not necessarily following all my healing routines like I should be. I'm hoping/planning to get back at that this week. Daily devotions, exercise, tea (I'm doing okay with that!), eating healthy, inspirational reading and music. I have to start planning how I'll accomplish this once I get back to the office (not sure exactly when yet). I need to keep using the reverse osmosis filtered water for drinking & for daily tea etc.. And I'll need to keep daily exercise in the mix as well. Some things to think about...
I will end for now and promise to post again soon! I want to thank everyone for your continued prayers and positive thoughts and helping hands and generous hearts! We've had so many wonderful helpful gifts in so many ways and I am so humbled and thankful. This could easily have been a nightmare experience without all of you - I pray blessings to each one of you!
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Something new
Almost two weeks after chemo #4 and I am feeling remarkably well these last few days. There were some "new" side effects from the extra steroids, which were given to prevent those itchy hives. Hey, no hives! Some crazy lack of sleep however, and then a monstrous fatigue last week. It seems to have leveled off, for now, anyway.
I have tried some "new" things, which I think is very helpful. Just as it's beneficial to schedule some pleasant activities to look forward to.
* As recommended by my chiropractor, I took a warm bath scented with Lavender essential oil virtually daily for the first week after the last treatment. This really did seem to be calming, and possibly helped prevent the hives as well.
* Got a massage yesterday here in town! Always a treat, and also suggested as a complimentary therapy. If anyone would like a very reasonable massage, contact Barbara @ K.eep I.n T.ouch massage therapy @ 651-769-9116. Her rates are just $40 for an hour massage. And, you can't beat the first-time special of TWO one hour massages for $40!
* Joined my 3M work group for a lunch at the Olive Garden yesterday. It's good to know that the Venetian Apricot Chicken is delicious (comes with broccoli and asparagus - what could be more perfect?) and so I barely missed my beloved pasta. Anyone that's known me for long understands that I should have been Italian! My son, Kevin, and I could pretty much live on a good daily dose of noodles!
* Tonight I took my very first Yoga class! It was just 30 minutes, and was great! This was from a gift certificate that I won from a drawing at the chiropractor's office. Again, this is a local woman who added a fitness studio to her home and is providing classes and personal training through her Real Fit Workout Studio. You can check it out at www.r-fit.com. Yoga is also a recommended complimentary therapy, especially for breathing & relaxation techniques.
* Drove through Starbucks for a nice hot cup of green tea one day last week after dropping the boys at daycare. The woman before me in line paid for my beverage & added a message to have a great day! Gotta love random acts of kindness. Something small & unexpected can make a huge difference in someone's day! :O)
We enjoyed the Strawberry Fest parade last Saturday here in Cottage Grove. The boys went on some rides while I checked out the business expo booths. Later, we watched Mike and the fire fighters demo an extraction from a car using the Jaws of Life. Absorbed lots of Vitamin D that day (and was wiped out after all that!).
I'll be having a little "getaway" at my sister's this weekend, which will be fun. Next week Alec will participate in the Starbase program that was offered to children of 3M employees. He's big into Science and technology and computers and is very much looking forward to this 4-day class.
I am scheduled for next Thursday, June 26th, at 10:40 for the next round of chemo. Until then, I will keep up my "healing" activities. The Christian radio station is on pretty much all day for positive messages and encouragement. I've read some more uplifting books (such as Chicken Soup for the Survivor's Soul). And I've spent time researching new healthy recipes online (could become addicting! Now I just need to cook some up...).
It's also so encouraging to hear from you through emails, etc. I can't say enough how much we appreciate every prayer and positive thought coming our way! If you would, please send some on down to the hurting people in my home state, Iowa, that are dealing with such devastation from the unprecedented flooding. The prayers of the righteous are powerful and effective!
I have tried some "new" things, which I think is very helpful. Just as it's beneficial to schedule some pleasant activities to look forward to.
* As recommended by my chiropractor, I took a warm bath scented with Lavender essential oil virtually daily for the first week after the last treatment. This really did seem to be calming, and possibly helped prevent the hives as well.
* Got a massage yesterday here in town! Always a treat, and also suggested as a complimentary therapy. If anyone would like a very reasonable massage, contact Barbara @ K.eep I.n T.ouch massage therapy @ 651-769-9116. Her rates are just $40 for an hour massage. And, you can't beat the first-time special of TWO one hour massages for $40!
* Joined my 3M work group for a lunch at the Olive Garden yesterday. It's good to know that the Venetian Apricot Chicken is delicious (comes with broccoli and asparagus - what could be more perfect?) and so I barely missed my beloved pasta. Anyone that's known me for long understands that I should have been Italian! My son, Kevin, and I could pretty much live on a good daily dose of noodles!
* Tonight I took my very first Yoga class! It was just 30 minutes, and was great! This was from a gift certificate that I won from a drawing at the chiropractor's office. Again, this is a local woman who added a fitness studio to her home and is providing classes and personal training through her Real Fit Workout Studio. You can check it out at www.r-fit.com. Yoga is also a recommended complimentary therapy, especially for breathing & relaxation techniques.
* Drove through Starbucks for a nice hot cup of green tea one day last week after dropping the boys at daycare. The woman before me in line paid for my beverage & added a message to have a great day! Gotta love random acts of kindness. Something small & unexpected can make a huge difference in someone's day! :O)
We enjoyed the Strawberry Fest parade last Saturday here in Cottage Grove. The boys went on some rides while I checked out the business expo booths. Later, we watched Mike and the fire fighters demo an extraction from a car using the Jaws of Life. Absorbed lots of Vitamin D that day (and was wiped out after all that!).
I'll be having a little "getaway" at my sister's this weekend, which will be fun. Next week Alec will participate in the Starbase program that was offered to children of 3M employees. He's big into Science and technology and computers and is very much looking forward to this 4-day class.
I am scheduled for next Thursday, June 26th, at 10:40 for the next round of chemo. Until then, I will keep up my "healing" activities. The Christian radio station is on pretty much all day for positive messages and encouragement. I've read some more uplifting books (such as Chicken Soup for the Survivor's Soul). And I've spent time researching new healthy recipes online (could become addicting! Now I just need to cook some up...).
It's also so encouraging to hear from you through emails, etc. I can't say enough how much we appreciate every prayer and positive thought coming our way! If you would, please send some on down to the hurting people in my home state, Iowa, that are dealing with such devastation from the unprecedented flooding. The prayers of the righteous are powerful and effective!
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Take a Lap
Things are moving right along. This Thursday, the 5th, I have chemo #4 out of 6 at 10:15 (for you prayer warriors!). Please pray for good counts, so there will be no delay. Also, I had some "extra" delayed-onset side effects after the last treatment (including hives and tremendous itchiness), so please add that concern to your prayers, if you would.
Speaking of moving, I registered for the 2nd annual Cottage Grove Relay for Life which will be taking place on Friday-Saturday July 11-12th. http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR?fr_id=7153&pg=entry I have signed up for the Survivor Lap. Their definition of a survivor is anyone that has ever heard the words "you have cancer." I spoke with the survivor chairperson last night, and she explained that after the opening ceremonies at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, the survivors all take the first lap (there are approximately 3o of us right now). Then, for the second lap, they ask all the caregivers to join the survivors for another one (or more) and then the teams all join in. So, I'm inviting anyone who has said a prayer, sent a card, brought a meal, helped with the kids, sent a positive thought, etc. to feel free to join me on a 2nd lap around the track. I feel you are all "my" caregivers and I so appreciate you and everything you do to make this journey easier for me! There is no need to register; she said the more the merrier, bring it on! This takes place at the CG Jr High, basically across the street from our home. Last year we looked across at dusk and were amazed at all the glowing luminaries circling the entire track. It is beautiful, but it also represents so many people that have been affected by this disease.
This morning during my daily devotions and bible reading, I was touched by the following sentiment: "God will bless us with light as we follow Christ; we can shine even in the rain." I feel so blessed to find His light even as I walk through this rain shower (some days, a downpour?).
And there is always Hope! One of my favorite verses, that helps keep that "attitude of gratitude" going is simply "Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!" 2Cor 9:15 He has offered us the free gift of salvation and eternal life through Christ. That is the foundation of my hope every day!
Speaking of moving, I registered for the 2nd annual Cottage Grove Relay for Life which will be taking place on Friday-Saturday July 11-12th. http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR?fr_id=7153&pg=entry I have signed up for the Survivor Lap. Their definition of a survivor is anyone that has ever heard the words "you have cancer." I spoke with the survivor chairperson last night, and she explained that after the opening ceremonies at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, the survivors all take the first lap (there are approximately 3o of us right now). Then, for the second lap, they ask all the caregivers to join the survivors for another one (or more) and then the teams all join in. So, I'm inviting anyone who has said a prayer, sent a card, brought a meal, helped with the kids, sent a positive thought, etc. to feel free to join me on a 2nd lap around the track. I feel you are all "my" caregivers and I so appreciate you and everything you do to make this journey easier for me! There is no need to register; she said the more the merrier, bring it on! This takes place at the CG Jr High, basically across the street from our home. Last year we looked across at dusk and were amazed at all the glowing luminaries circling the entire track. It is beautiful, but it also represents so many people that have been affected by this disease.
This morning during my daily devotions and bible reading, I was touched by the following sentiment: "God will bless us with light as we follow Christ; we can shine even in the rain." I feel so blessed to find His light even as I walk through this rain shower (some days, a downpour?).
And there is always Hope! One of my favorite verses, that helps keep that "attitude of gratitude" going is simply "Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!" 2Cor 9:15 He has offered us the free gift of salvation and eternal life through Christ. That is the foundation of my hope every day!
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