The Process Begins

Today was the visit with my cancer doctor, Dr. Bate. All the tests have been done for now and he came to a conclusion as to what we are going to do. My husband came with and he was so glad he did. Dr. Bate is a very good doctor and Gordon really was impressed. Gordon has been and will be there for me throughout this process.

Good news is, there is no other spots to be found that they are looking at. The original cell and then 2 little spots on the liver are what will be treated. We had already decided that we wanted a second opinion just for our piece of mind. Before we even got the words out he said he was considering it himself because he just wants to be sure he is going in the right direction. We all decided Iowa City would be the best. Next week we will make the trip there and see what they have to say. Dr. Bate said he has not seen something like what I have (leave it to me to have something different than anyone else).

Surgery is out. It is located between the stomach and liver and is very hard to get to and it can't be removed. Radiation is out also because it would damage the stomach and liver. Chemo is the only option. He wants to go at it a little more aggressively than if I were 70 or 80 years old. Right now it looks like 3 days of chemo and then 18 off, another 3 days and 18 off. Then they will do scans and see if it is working. This is where you all come in now. PRAY hard that it works. If it does then another 4 more treatments like what I did before.

He did say there would be side effects. I can't tell you how scared that makes me, but I am positive this is all going to be fine. I know where my heart is and I know who is in charge of my life.

I had my first pneumonia shot today. He suggested it along with the flu shot which I get anyway. My immune system will not be working very good and they want you to be protected. I am taking supplements and doing all the healthy things I can to boost my immune system. I am eating very healthy and have a positive attitude. NO STINKING THINKING!

So hang on for the ride. I will count on everyone for support and prayers. I will need a ride now and then and I am going to take you up on it. One thing I have found out, I have friends I didn't even know I had and I am liking that.

Love you all!