Next Phase of Treatment: Chemo Mobilization

Tuesday January 3, 2017

Today is the first day of the next phase of treatment for me.  I finished 16 Induction Chemos, now I am starting the Chemo Mobilization phase.  By the grace of God we arrived at Northwestern Hospital (Chicago) on time.  I had a tunneled catheter placed in my chest/neck this morning.  The procedure went smoothly.  I only had soreness after the narcotics wore off.  I started chemo early this evening and I feel great.  I am so thankful for the prayers that have gone up on my behalf.  I appreciate the encouragement I have from so many of you.  Truly, your expressions and love make a difference in my attitude and physical response.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Kriz and I had a busy, fun weekend before this second phase started.  We attended a wedding in St. Paul, MN Friday evening.  Kindra, the beautiful bride, is the daughter of our very good friends, John and Mary, from Medical School.  The wedding was beautiful and the reception was grand.  We also enjoyed catching up with friends Mark and Karrie, also from medical school.  We each have four kids, now all young adults!   We had so much to share.  I really loved hearing about each family.

Saturday morning we flew back to Chicago for our niece Megan’s New Year’s Eve wedding.  The wedding was stunning and the reception was festive and fancy . . . fun, fun!  I love dressing up and admiring everyone else’s festive fashions.  Kriz wore a tux - he was very fine. It was the best New Years Eve party we have been invited to.  It was great to see the family as we didn't get together for Thanksgiving or Christmas this year.  Congratulations to the newlywed couples.  We love you and were so happy to share in your celebrations!

Sunday, in preparation for the inevitable side effect of chemo, Karly cut my hair.  It wasn’t as dramatic as I thought it might be.  I guess I have had time to get used to the idea of losing all my hair because it really didn’t bother me.  She did a really nice job.  It’s cute and I still have hair . . . that is probably part of it too.  Mostly though, I know it is God who has been preparing me for what’s ahead.  He is a compassionate and loving Father who takes care of me.  I am so thankful He knows me best.  It gives me so much peace knowing I only need to take one day at a time and He is with me to help me and give me strength to get through this.  I am so thankful.

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