Monday, October 29, 2007

Arm Scan

Patty is having another scan today to assure she doesn't have a blood clot in her arm or axilla. The pain has continued so I encouraged her to call today and have it checked out further. Lymphedema is not usually painful so I wasn't comfortable for her to wait until Thursday when she sees her Oncologist.

She's noticeably discouraged by this latest development. Pray that the Lord will grant her encouragement.

On the lighter side, I took Grant and Brett for a haircut last Wednesday night. Thursday Grant decided it wasn't short enough. So he grabs my hair clippers and commences to give himself a reverse mohawk and to trim up Brett's sideburns. Patty called me at work and by her tone of voice I thought he had either busted the TV, broke a mirror, or blew up the computer. When I finally coaxed her into telling me what he did before I got home I actually had a sigh of relief it was just his hair. She wasn't as agreeable. What does he look like now? Well, let's say his cut resembles mine. Haven't seen mine? Its a #1 guard, as low as you can get with a guard. It actually looks good on him now and he's getting more attention as everyone wants to rub it!

Friday, October 26, 2007

150th Post

This makes the 150th post to this blog. Is this a favorable milestone? I think not, especially since I've got not so favorable news to report.

Patty's arm is still bothering her and she has now noticed some swelling in her hand which most likely is lymphedema. Not a good thing. She's is deservedly upset about this as it is just one more thing to have to deal with. We thought that she had eclipsed the period for this to occur but evidently not. She goes to see a specialist next week.

Its just like the hits just keep coming. I could expound on this but probably shouldn't.

We're tired.

Not just physically but mentally as well. I think we have kept clamoring and hoping to return to some semblance of what we once were. The further out we get and the continued issues now have me thinking it isn't going to happen. It's hard to describe but, not only does this effect your physical health but your immediate family, marital relationship, work performance, friends, hope, outlook, well...I could go on and on, basically everything everyday. Its even more difficult to see all your friends and acquaintances carrying on with everyday life and the normal issues you deal with. Truly, I can't describe in print the effect it has on everything. Words can't describe the despair it weighs upon you. I know it could be worse.

Pray for the Lord to extend his mercy and to heal this issue with Patty's arm and to grant us resilience and hope .

Thursday, October 18, 2007

Update

Just wanting to drop an update for everyone.

Patty is doing well. She is still receiving her Herceptin infusions weekly. This will continue through December. She still has odd aches and pains that consistently bring concern but that is something that we will have to consistently persevere through. Right now her right arm is bothering her. Its not swollen but feels like there is a tight cord running down her arm. This is often called Fascial Cording. Click HERE for a description. Hopefully we can get her a physical therapy consult which some say helps with this problem.

We're traversing off to Pigeon Forge for a short camping trip during the kids Fall Break. We're looking forward to getting away. Although, you never get away from thoughts and issues related to cancer as your mind travels with you.

This is a note for SP, a faithful reader and friend.

Thank you so much for your encouraging letter. Your faithfulness throughout the years has meant so much to Patty, myself, and the kids. We would love for you to come visit with us and the kids. Feel free to give us a call.