Willie Nelson - I woke up "still not dead" again today!

Every Three months I go through "the change." or more correctly said, the fear of the change! I have a PET scan to see if there is any growth in my cancer - indicating a resistance has built up to my current treatment, Every three months I get exceptionally moody and inward. I suppose it's another "side effect" of this road I am on. Tuesday I had an appointment with my oncologist about the Pet Scan the week before and it is all good. I get the reports of the scan on the internet before I see the doctor - so, of course, I read them, don't fully understand, panic a bit, and withdraw even more. This time was no different - but once again, all is well, continuing on the same course, and we can make plans for the next three months! - and that brings us to the end of October when (drum roll) . Baby Anderson is due to arrive. I have also been given a reprieve on going to the doctor - I just need a blood test in a month and don't see the doctor for TWO months. John and I are spending a bunch of time at the lake with family and friends. It's a wonderful place to retreat to - and it's fun to share.

Karen Meyer with Carolyn and Ettienne D'Otreppe

Karen flew in from Scottsdale on a whim - hadn't seen her in maybe 12 years.  We picked it right up and moved forward!    I find that so refreshingly amazing.  Lesson here, though, if we are NOT intentional about our friendships,  they won't maintain themselves.  Be a friend and be spontaneous!

I am concerned that her jeans were so worn out - I am looking for iron on patches to send to her!

If I don't write for awhile,  I am trying to forget I have Cancer and live a "normal" life.  I always love to hear from YOU - my inspirations to keep it upbeat but real.  Enjoy the end of summer - and then we get the FALL!  Except for the shorter days - so beautiful.

Another "SIDE EFFECT"

More side effects to contend with! I've mentioned swelling and nausea and many others and now I have the white blood cell to contend with.  I guess it's common to have a low count and have to skip Chemo - but I have felt so good that it totally surprised me.  I had to go off of it for a week,  and each week is precious.  The count came up, minimally but enough to resume treatment.  As well as attacking the cancer cells, the chemo attacks the white blood cells and compromises my immune system!    When you are given a short period of survival if you "do nothing" doing nothing is not something I want to do.  Don't want to eat up that time.  Doing "something" has worked well.  This is uncontrollable - i can't change my diet, walk farther, breath deeper, take a vitamen...  Of course, I fear that old slippery slope in my future and wonder - fear - that any change is the beginning.  

 Monday I have the pet scan which is the bottom line on knowing what's going on with my treatment. I can't study for this test, it is what it is. Keep your prayers coming and fingers crossed. I will let you know how it goes. 

 Meanwhile, I continue to live a wonderful, active life.  John and I went on a river cruise last month which was devine.  We have spent and will spend more time at the lake this summer - what a relief from the incredible heat we have been having.  A trip to the cape... plans for Austin, Maine...  it is a busy, fun summer planned.  

With Will and KA and ??  at the Cape

Thanks for traveling with me on this bumpy road.