Treatments & Side Effects

Hi all,

Not sure how many of you have been coming back here looking for an update. Sorry for the lage in adding new info how Mom is doing.  My last update explained that following Tara's wedding Mom would start a new treatment regimen at the beginning of May.  This was not an easy decision as this treatment would add more side effects on top of the ones she's already dealing with (tiredness, hair loss/thinning, lack of energy, etc). This treatment was the start of an almost all new chemotherapy treatment mixture (with the exception of one drug). She is now going to chemotherapy every week with one week being about 5-6 hour process and the second week being about 3-4 hours.

She has had one scan / check on her progress at the end of July, and what we hoped and prayed was delivered. The new treatment made a pretty dramatic change to the size and tumors - almost of of the tumors were reduced in size and there were fewer tumors. Her spleen still is enlarged which is concerning, but the doctors explain that with the liver pushing on the spleen this is to be expected.

SIDE EFFECTS:
So this is the part that is not fun and makes for long days and weeks. With Mom's last treatment, she could predict how she was going to feel when. She knew when the good days and bad days would come. This treatment seems to be unpredictable and she can have a good week or day but those seem to be sporadic at least lately far and few between.  This new treatment added - continued hair loss/thinning, dry/itchy skin and some redness on her arms, face, and legs has resulted (but comes & goes), and diarrhea. However, she is pushing through the best that she can and I am almost certain not really telling us how bad it is. But, I know my Mom is strong and if anyone can handle all of this to fight this disease, it's her.

With all of the prayers and support, I'm asking for more.  Keep sending all that you have! And, next time you see her, be sure to tell her how strong she is :). She could probably use a few encouraging words & a laugh.

Long Overdue Thank You Note from Tim & Sharon

Hi there -
Sorry for the over-due time to post this Thank You note from Mom & Tim on the blog. A version of this was posted in the newspaper and in the church bulletin, but I forgot to post this here. Next post will be an update on how Mom's doing.

Words cannot express the gratitude that Tim & I feel after the outpouring of support we received for at the benefit. Thank you to the hundreds of people that donated items, attended the event, bid on items, bought raffle tickets, sent cards, gave money, helped organize and work the event. It’s amazing all of the people giving their valuable time and money to help us. The overwhelming support I feel cannot be matched – I feel so blessed to have so many people in our lives that care enough to show this much support. The event and outpouring of support was just what I need to continue with chemotherapy treatment and fight this disease. You all have done so much; I can’t explain how thankful and grateful we are for everything you have done to help in so many ways!
Thank you, Sharon (& Tim)