I think this might have been the biggest hit of the holidays... Heidi has taken to this new dog bed like a duck to water! We think she enjoys the pillows, it's crazy!
Well, we are winding down now.... Craig returned to Winnipeg (via Indianapolis for a leadership conference through his fraternity, Delta Upsilon). Michelle returns tomorrow. It's been a wonderful and lengthy visit which I have enjoyed very much, but it is time to get back to "real life" now. The kids have work and school, and I have some resting to catch up on!
I saw an oncologist today who was subbing for my regular (who is on vacation). Because I seemed to have such a tough time last cycle, he is giving me a 25% dose reduction, and I am thrilled about this, because I think I really need it, my quality of life was wiped to almost nothing for too long with my last cycle. My lungs sound "very clear" which is a great sign in my books. I do have a little lump on my shoulder - could be a cancerous lymph node, or could be something else..... if cancer, that will likely be the end of this chemo, but time and CT scans will tell that for sure.
After the first 2 1/2 brutal weeks, I am actually feeling MUCH better, MUCH more "myself" and absolutely everything has improved in the last couple of days - my breathing, my stamina, my cough. I've been up and about a bit as well. I even went to a movie with Anne and Michelle (and Brian with Anne's son Chad). (movie: P.S. I love you - huge chick flick warning, not a man in the theatre and I think that was just as well!).
Upcoming events: Chemo (Taxotere at 75% dose): January 7
That's all that is new for now! I hope that 2008 is treating you all well so far. For myself, I'm pretty happy to see each new day of it.
Cheers - Joanne
9 comments:
Hi Joanne, I am so glad to hear that you are feeling better. Happy New Year to you also. We have just returned from visiting my cousin Mark in Houston. I hope that your next round of chemo isn't as roungh and I will call you soon.
Lots of Love and Hugs, Loretta
Hi Joanne, Seasons Greetings and all the best to you and your family. I'm glad to hear you are feeling better now and that you enjoyed the Christmas visit with your family. It brings such a rush of excitment and flurry to have the "big" kids home with you for the holidays. Lots of news to catch up on!
Our Christmas was busy and we enjoyed being able to be together again even if it was only for a few days. Next week is back to school here and Matthew is itching to go. I'm not rushing it, I plan to have at least one more 'sleep in no schedule' day before the old alarm calls me to attention.
As always we keep you in our prayers. Annette
Hello Joanne:
So glad to hear you are feeling better. It was great to see you over Christmas. Enjoy this wonderful warm weather - the sun must be pouring in your sunroom these days! Now time to read and rest. Take care.
P & G
Have to comment on the movie. Michelle & I went to see it on Friday night and thoroughly enjoyed it! It made me laugh out loud, a few tears and wish I was planning a trip back to Ireland! You're right though, definitely a chick flick. Hope the dose reduction alleviates some of the side effects, so that there are fewer rough days. See you tonight at book club!
Peggy
Hi Joanne,
Heidi certainly looks "as happy as a clam"! Santa was good to her. Good luck with the chemo tomorrow -hopefully the reduced dose will have fewer side effects. Keep us posted! Love, N & L
Hi Joanne, my house is emptying out as well as the kids go back to school and to work. You start the reduced dose chemo today so I am sending strength and hope for good effect without those tough side effects. Love and prayers!! Claire
Hi Joanne,
Hope you are recovering okay from this dose of Chemo and it is a little easier on you than the last one. Your Christmas photos all look great.
Patti
Hi Joanne I just couldn't let this photo go by without telling you how cute Heidi looks...i don't know what it is but like Heidi ...Renfrew loves his pillows too :)...thinking of you and all of our fun Donna
Hi Joanne: think your dog Heidi is adorable. I have a dog and 3 cats. They make me laugh alot. I love them. Love the books you mention from your book club. I'd like to read "Expecting Adam". wish I could send you pics of my kitties and dog, but not sophisticated about using computer. Hugs, Donna S
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