Fr. Tony: Oncologist Visit and Change of Treatment,
PitterPat's BP is up,
Abbs and Lee arrive today,
Countdown Stress,
Megabroad,
and Happy Anniversary to us.
Fr. Tony:
Yesterday we went to the oncologist to have labs done, and visit with Dr. Craig. While I'm sure the various "numbers" would make sense to some, during this hectic time of year, it's all a bit of a blur, but I'll try and explain.
It seems the little nasty cells that the chemo is trying to bump off, well.... are bouncing back a bit, as indicated in the lab results. This isn't very encouraging to Dr. Craig, so on the 26th Tony will receive only the Rituxan, and once a week, for the next 4 weeks. From there, we'll determine if the influx of Rituxan will get the nasty cells down to an acceptable level, and move on with possibly a different type of chemo.
On the one hand, eliminating the 4 day infusion of chemo is a bit of a relief, since one of the deadly chemo chemicals causes numbness and tingling (pins and needles) in the hands and feet. Fr. Tony has been experiencing these symptoms for a few weeks now, and we hope with the elimination of that drug, the numbness will go away. From what we now understand, this side affect can become permanent! ugh!
We were also concerned about Tony's recent return of the tiredness, pufiness under his eyes, and pain in his legs and feet. The main reason for the concern is the FOUR SERVICES he's going to attempt on Sunday. In spite of all my nagging, he refuses to drop the 8am service. So, the doc said he could take some of his steroids to help give him a boost, and also reminded him that in spite of his desire to wear himself out, Christmas WILL come, one way or another. hrumph. This morning, Tony took his first round of the steroids, and was feeling much better. So much better, he's gone for a wee bit of a drive to soak up some of the sunshine we're experiencing today. Though it's a bit cold, being hold up in the house for days on end can get to be a bit of a bore for the ole guy.
Please do continue to keep Tony in your prayers, especially on Christmas Eve Day and Evening.
PitterPat's Blood Pressure:
Well, it seems my blood pressure has decided to soar. Thanks mom! (heredity can be a bear, aye?) So, next week I go to the doctor to see what he can do to get it back down. Guess I'll have to start one of those new year's resolutions early, and get my ample back side out walking.
I certainly hope the doc doesn't say I need to cut out my coffee. Well, maybe I could switch to decaf. I wouldn't want to miss my occasional visits to our local Starbucks, where the employees are always SO kind and caring, asking how Tony's doing, each time I pop in.
Abbs and Lee:
Abbey and Lee are winding their way north from Raleigh. They should be arriving some time this evening. I'm very much looking forward to seeing them, and wish Megan could be here with us. I think the best birthday/Christmas present I could only ever want, is for my kids to be here with me during the holidays.
Megabroad:
Megan's found a way to make up for being without the family at Christmas. She and a friend from college (who works in Japan) are taking in the sights of Bangkok's huge market and water market, then they'll head down to the coast of Thailand, and soak up some sun. From there, they plan to venture up to Mae Sot, and possibly on up to northern Thailand to see the folks who work with elephants. Sounds like a grand family substitution... and a super way to not deal with all the hubub of the holiday season.
Countdown Stress:
And... I wonder why my blood pressure is up!?? NO! It's probably a simple answer.... my dreaded procrastination issue.... Yet again, at the final hours before Christmas, I'm frantically finishing up gifts. No stress there, aye?
Speaking of stress..... or maybe aggrivation.... What is up with the Discovery Channel and their "Life Lessons"? I was mortally wounded when I saw the little commercial about Life Lesson #14, where a husband gives his wife a handmade bird house. Then, the following is said,
"Holiday Life Lesson #14; Homemade Gifts Are Fine.... If You're Seven"
The nerve! Hrumph!!!
So, hmmmmm I guess I'm living permanently at the age of seven, (which could explain a LOT of things) and a firm believer that gifts crafted by heart, soul and "HAND", are the best gifts possible. Take that, Discovery Channel!
Happy 10th and 11th Anniversary to us:
Fr. Tony and I celebrated (well... sort of but not really, with all the pre Christmas stuff going on, and a day at the oncologist's office) our 10th and 11th anniversary, yesterday. I'm sure you're scratching your heads right now, wondering what the 10th and 11th is all about. Well, we were originally married by a wonderful little man at our local magistrates office, with dear friends and family present. (like they do in Europe, except we sort of let a year get away from us, before making our way to the church). Long story short, we got married on Dec. 22nd 1995 and Dec. 22nd 1996. grin
It seems like just yesterday we were staring love struck at one another, taking our vows. We've seen some rocky roads, and had many blessed years together. In spite of the rough times, we cherish one another greatly, and shall see this new twist in the road through to a well and fully recovered end, mainly because we have the care and concern of so many friends and family, whom we can't thank enough for being part of our lives.
Well, Santa's weary elf must get back to work.... Much to do!!!
