We finally have our blog up and running!

Many thanks to those who kept family and friends updated and made sure we had the help we need.  There are many people to thank but a special thanks goes to Mary and Caroline.  I told Dr. Kaplan that everyone who walks in his office needs friends like ours. We couldn’t do it without you.

Thanks also for the wonderful meals we’ve enjoyed, gifts we’ve received and countless cards, phone calls and e-mails. They do make a difference and we are so blessed to have all of you in our lives. What seems like a small gesture means everything when you’ve had your life turned upside down. They make things feel upright for a little while.

And thank you to James’ boss and co-workers. Their kindness and understanding has made it easier to navigate through this time.

On to the good news that most of you already know:  

I am thankful every day that we decided to begin treatment at Swedish Hospital with Dr. Kaplan.  And thankful to Callie, who introduced me to Nancy, who made this possible. I truly believe prayers were answered when I became his patient. His kindness, knowledge and the wonderful staff at Swedish have made a huge difference in our lives.

Since I started treatment, I’ve had less pain and generally feel better. All good signs that the chemo is doing what it’s supposed to.  I still get tired easily and have 1-2 bad days after treatment but it’s much easier to handle without pain. Some of you know that I reacted to the chemo with an “angry” rash that made me wonder if I’d have to stop or change treatment but I was able to continue. It’s still there but less angry (just a little irritated --).

The shots have helped my white blood cell count which is great news.  I plan to take over at some point but for now James continue to give them twice a week.

This is the beginning of my first week without treatment and I’m looking forward to seeing what that feels like.  Unfortunately I’ll see what it feels like without hair.  What started as a slow process is now a continuous shedding and although I’m sad and scared, I know it’s time to cut it all off and figure out what to do next.  I still need to figure out how the women at the hospital make a scarf look so great and although I have hats I love, they don’t fit the same without hair. I also have a wig that I’ve been told is perfect for me (betcha can’t wait to see it) but I haven’t made friends with it yet.  I know I’ll work through this and soon my new look will be second nature (although I’ve been told you never quite get used to looking in the mirror).

The kids are doing well. Daniel and Ryan have spent a lot of time with Claire, our mother’s helper, and enjoy painting, play dough and outside time with her.  Jamie has provided weekly craft lessons which all of the kids love, and last week Layne took the boys miniature golfing and to Chuck E. Cheese. What more could a 4 year old ask for?

Ryan frequently asks me how I feel, if my back hurts and if I ate too much popcorn (long story!).   He’s easily reassured and moves on with his day but he’s always been a sensitive child so I’m not surprised he checks in often and seems most aware of what’s going on.

Daniel likes to give spontaneous hugs and “I love yous” and generally makes me smile with his silly games, voices and ideas.  He often makes my day.

Olivia is sad that Kindergarten is ending soon. She had a great year and we’re so proud of her. Because she’s at school from 9-4, she’s missed a lot of what’s been going on. I’ve talked to her about what’s happening, she knows I get medicine through the port above my clavicle (she’s fascinated that you can feel it) and how the medicine makes me feel.  She knows that daddy takes her more places (like to a birthday party Saturday – thank you James!) but she doesn’t seem to mind.  I’m sure there are more questions and discussions to come.

James or I will check in again next week. Thanks again for EVERYTHING.