Progress Report

As of today, I have completed 20 days of chemo and 13 rounds of radiation. I had a follow-up appointment with my chemo doctor today. He has me come in for weekly lab work. He reported my "numbers" are very good. Overall, treatment is progressing well. Reminds me of the words of a song..."His Strength is Perfect."

New Do Has Arrived

I picked up my new wig today...could not believe what almost a perfect color match it was to my own hair. The highhlights were a tad more blonde, but I liked them (I've always been a blonde at heart...LOL). He actually wanted me to take it home and play around with it. When the time comes, I will go back and he will cut and style it for me.

I want you to know that my boss and co-workers put the money together to buy this for me. It is NOT inexpensive. When I arrived at the salon today, there was a woman looking for a wig. She had already lost her own hair, but I think she found something. Unfortunately, she had only half of what it was going to cost. My heart sank for her.

So let me say "thanks" again to Dr. and Mrs. Long, Shelley, Robin, Becky, Alison, Ashley, Cassie, Dana, Deb, Derek, Gretchen, Jamie, Jane, Jennifer, Jess, Jessica, Jody, Laura, LeeAnn, Rachel, Ryan, and Tina.

Rough night...day

Last night some of the symptoms started to kick in (chills, nauseous, sweats, dull headache). My fatigued seems to be at an all-time high. Today I saw the doctor. He cancelled my radiation to give me a break. He increased my steroid intake. He liked that I was at such a low dosage and handling things so well, but thought the adjustment was appropriate today. Praying for a better day tomorrow...

Wig Shopping

Today, Brooke and my friend, Robin, went wig shopping. We learned there is a BIG difference between wigs made with synthetic hair and wigs made with "real" hair. Our picture says it all. Needless to say, our next stop included much better options. My new look will be forthcoming. Actually, I'm hoping it doesn't turn out to be much different from my look now.

First Day of Treatment

I started both chemo (pills) and radiation today. I was only there for a total of 30 minutes. The staff is so awesome. It was nice that Brad was here to take me to my appointment. Brooke, Logan, and Savannah will be here tomorrow. Feeling fine so far.....GOD IS SO GOOD!

Happy Easter...HE IS RISEN!

I have returned home from a quick visit in Fort Wayne. The best medicine in the world comes in pint-size packages. Thanks Brooke, Logan, and Savannah for a wonderful 48 hours together. Now we're looking forward to everyone being home next weekend. We'll be celebrating Bradley's 26th birthday!

HERE WE GO...

A good friend suggested we set up this blog in order for you to walk through this journey with us. My computer-savvy daughter, Brooke, is helping me in a computer world I know very little about. Thanks, darlin'!

Randy and I met with the both Oncologists (chemo and radiation) this week. After meeting with the Radiation Oncologist on Wednesday, we left with a sense of hope. PTL! While he does not minimize the severity of the type of brain tumor I have, which, unfortunately, is becoming more prevalent in adults, he shared so many positives about my particular circumstances. He was encouraged by the early recognition of symptoms, and the quick response of my family physician to follow through with additional testing. The size and placement of my tumor was best-case scenario. He thought Dr. Schnittker's, my neurosurgeon, removal of the tumor was very thorough. He says I have youth and overall good health in my favor. All in all, he thinks I will respond to treatment very well. I learned today treatment will begin next Wednesday, April 7th. It will be a six to six-and-a half week process, Monday thru Friday. At that point, I will get a four-week reprieve. After that, I will begin a maintenance regiment.

God is definitely working...He's hearing all our prayers. Don't stop praying yet, because God's not finished yet.

~~Peggy