Just What I Needed

For the first time, I am really dreading my next treatment.  This will only be treatment #3, but I know so very well how badly I'll feel next weekend.  The treatment room makes me feel queazy.  In fact, just thinking about the treatment makes me feel queazy at times.  I'm still positive, but I'm starting to respect the power of these chemo drugs.  They really are torture to a person's body - both physically and mentally.

I've had a very disturbing week as we lost out nephew tragically on Father's Day in Dallas.  He was a police officer, but more importantly, he was a wonderful person - a Christian husband and father.  My heart is so heavy, especially for his wife and kids, his parents, and his siblings.  We went to Dallas for the funeral Friday and Saturday, and it was very exhausting. 

Now, I'm in Selma.  This trip has been good for me.  Though it is very short, I'm enjoying the fresh country air, the quiet, and the fellowship with family.  Perhaps I should come here again to re-energize before a treatment.  After the week we've had, this was just what I needed.  :-)

This Too Shall Pass

After a couple of days of increased hair shedding, Terry put me out of my misery Saturday night with the clippers.  Now, at least I won't be collecting long strands, but teeny-weeny ones instead.  It was an emotional event.  My mother, Sarah, and Camille watched and Sarah took a couple of pictures for my private journal.  Other than that, I've had typical Days 3 and 4.  I haven't felt my best, but I'm looking forward to the coming week when my energy returns and I feel more myself.

My family has been so wonderful.  I've handled things much better than I expected because of their support.  It's comforting knowing that this is "only a season" as my mother puts it.  I hope God gives me the opportunity to bless others because of this in the future.  He certainly has blessed me with wonderful survivors to share their stories with me and help me on this journey. 

Round 2 Today

Today's treatment felt "stronger".  I felt more heavy-headed from the start and feel woozy now...like car sickness.  I still have my hair though.  Sorry for the short update, but looking at the screen is not good right now.  Thanks for your continued prayers. 

Oh, and my thumb nails are discolored from the first chemo.  The doctor said I will probable lose one of them. :-(

"I Hope You Dance" by Susan and sons

My homeschooling friend, Susan, dedicated this performance to me and two others who are currently fighting cancer.  I am deeply touched and honored to post it here. 

(Click the word "performance" above to view the dance.)

Look What I Can Do!

I've been doing my post-mastectomy range of motion exercises, and all of a sudden, I could bring my right arm almost to my ear.  Yippee!!!  Thanks for your help, Susan.  :-)

Victorious!

I have a theme song.  It expresses perfectly how I feel about this cancer fight.  The name of the song is "Victorious" by Mandisa.  I wasn't able to find the video, but here are the lyrics:

If You could send a burning bush to Moses;
Lead Your people home through a parted sea;
Give a boy the strength to defeat Goliath;
I know You will always take care of me.

With You on my side, I am victorious.
With You on my side, I’ve got nothing to fear.
So I can walk through this valley with confidence,
Knowing You will deliver me.

If You could raise the dead bones of Lazarus;
If You could feed five-thousand with a couple fish and a loaf of bread;
And in the middle of a stormy night You can walk on water;
I know, I know, I know nothing’s out of Your hands.

With You on my side, I am victorious.
With You on my side, I’ve got nothing to fear.
So I can walk through this valley with confidence,
Knowing You will deliver me.

Better Days

I'm starting to feel better this evening.  Days 3-5 were unexpected, but I hope I'm starting my energy climb now for this round.  At least I'm not nauseous too!!  {Thank you, Lord!}

Day 3 - Unexpected

Today was much different.  I've been tired, with a headache, and no appetite today.  Also, my taste buds are out of whack.  Perhaps I shouldn't have assumed this round would be a breeze after the first two days.  I'm not sure if it's due to the chemo or the Neulasta injection.  Maybe both.  I'm going to try to get a good night of sleep and hope for a better day tomorrow.

One Down, Seven to Go

I've completed my first round of treatment and I'm doing okay.  I've had only a couple mild side effects, but nothing to slow me down so far.  This was no surprise since I've been told that each rounds tends to be tougher on the patient.

I will have a pretty slow weekend.  The Neulasta injection I received today may give me some trouble over the next few days.  I've been told that it can cause body aches like the flu for days after the shot.  We shall see.

I bought this t-shirt and can't wait to wear it proudly!

 "...the joy of the LORD is your strength."- Nehemiah 8:10

Ready...Set...

...GO!!!

My bag is packed and I'm ready to "fight like a girl"!!!  I have word searches, a novel, my bible, a fleece throw, snacks, and anything else I may need to pass the time.  Hopefully, I'll just sleep.  :-)  I feel great and I expect to sail through these treatments. 

Either Terry or I will post occasionally. 

Chemo Drugs

Happy June!  I'll be starting chemo in only two days.  I'm not thrilled about pumping poison into my body, but hey... it's only temporary.  Here are the drugs I'll be receiving:

Adriamycin and Cytoxan (first 4 rounds)
Taxol and Herceptin (last 4 rounds)

Thanks for the prayers!