Pre-surgery day?

Today mom went to the Juravinski centre to meet with Dr. Whelan, the radiation oncologist. After speaking with Dr. Liaconis, mom's surgeon, they concluded that surgery is NOT an option at this time. In just a few days, the tumor has grown back to the size it was prior to chemo. This is not a typical response after chemo. (Mom says that's because she's an exceptional woman - I have to agree!) Instead, they are hoping to begin radiation treatments next week.

Mom and dad had to stick around Juravinski for the afternoon for preparations for radiation. After numerous Cat scans, repositionings and X-marker spots she now possesses not ONE but FOUR new tatoos!!! (we always knew she had a little rebel in her!) She will be scheduled for an information class in the next few days and they hope to begin radiation treatments some time next week...yet to be determined. For now, all we know is that they expect the treatments to last 5 days a week for 5 weeks, possibly more. All of this is pure speculation as they do not know how she will respond to the treatments.

So for now, we rest assured that God is in control and only HE knows the future. Although this path may not have been one that we anticiptated, God will still use all of it for His glory. He has written the book with our life story. Every chapter, every paragraph, every sentence He wrote. It comes together creating beautiful poetry, pointing to the awesomeness of our Saviour!

DAY 111 - 128

Well - life continues to be interesting.

Though I feel quite well and am able to get out and about more, regaining my strength seems to lag behind. It doesn't take long for the knees to get wobbly. BUT it feels good to feel good and to be able to be more social.

The weekend prior to Easter, Scott and I went to Orillia and enjoyed a couple of days with Tedra and Jesse. Sunday, we had a wonderful dinner with Jesse's family (and one of Tedra's special desserts). We were able to attend church with them as well. We enjoyed the time at Hope Christian Community Church. It was nice to meet some of the people from there who have been praying for us.

Easter weekend, Tedra and Jesse were home. We had good family time, food and fun.

Life also continues to be unpredictable.

The weekend that we were at Tedra's, I developed a rash. A visit to the doctor the Thursday before Good Friday caused him some concern. However, surgery was scheduled in a few days so I was to keep an eye on it and advise him if there were any other concerns. Within a few days, the cancerous area appeared to have blossomed again, becoming hard, tender and quite large.

A visit to his office today (Wednesday) has resulted in a possible hold on surgery scheduled for Friday and a visit tomorrow to the Juravinski Centre.

The growth caught me by surprise, but it was no surprise to the One who holds the future in His hands - the One who knows the number of hairs missing from my head! :-) He remains my hope and my help.

I owe so many "thank yous" to many of you but please know that not one word or act of kindness has gone unnoticed or unappreciated. Each one has been a blessing and an encouragement to us.

We cherish your continued prayers as we wait to see what lies ahead. My prayer is that above all the Lord will be glorified. He is so good!

AN EVENING OF LOVE SONGS

In honour of Pastor Scott and Joy Bacon. Please join with friends and family on Saturday April 26th, 2008 to show your love, support and appreciation for a couple who have touched the lives of many!

For tickets and information, please contact one of the names listed on the poster above (click on image to enlarge).

Hope to see you there!
Friends and Family of Scott & Joy

Day 103 - Day 110

Well, it's been 10 days since my final chemo treatment and my strength and energy are slowly beginning to increase.

Yesterday, was my final Neupogen injection. We celebrated with a late lunch at "My Thai". Scott also took me shopping for shoes and some cards. It didn't take long for me to start feeling a little wobbly. It's amazing how much we take for granted the strength to do simple, everyday tasks.

This past Wednesday was my appointment with the surgeon, Dr. Liaconis. Surgery is scheduled for March 28. The next three weeks are to give opportunity to somewhat recuperate from the chemo - blood counts to rise, body regain strength.

I have to admit I'm cautiously anticipating the next couple of weeks - no chemo, no dexamethasone (steroid), no needles, no appointments in Hamilton.

I'm hoping I will soon be able to eat the foods I have had to avoid while on chemo. Don't know how long it takes for food to taste normal, but at least I can tolerate most foods.

I am also looking forward to seeing people more often though I have to admit, as much as I love talking, conversation is energy-draining. One of those things we take for granted when we're well!

Again I find I have to keep my focus on today. I have already caught myself with unrealistic expectations for tomorrow.

No amusing stories to tell on myself (yet, anyway). My wig has stayed in place and, Diane, you'll be happy to know I haven't had any more fries (yet! :-))

Well, our journey continues. Thanks for travelling with me.