Monday, November 23, 2009

Dear Friends and Family:

I wanted to share the latest news from mayo.
last tuesday, i had a chest scan, bloodwork and was able to meet with Dr. Creagan.
Meeting with Dr. Creagan, was truly the 'highlight of the day'!
We talked and he showed Bill and me how the tumors were shrinking, on the lung, and told me not to worry about the adrenal gland! :)
he is happy with the current chemo plan, so we are continuing the once/week for three weeks, xray, then again, once/week for three weeks.

He mentioned to bill how 'tough' i am, and is very pleased. my blood count is low, but it is being monitored and i know what to look for, as far as problems that can occur.
i am feeling well...... i get tired, but i can certainly manage that!

Bill and i would like to wish you all a very happy Thanksgiving......
without all of your thoughts, prayers and wonderful support, i am not sure if i would be this strong!!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!!!
:) ;)

Thursday, October 22, 2009

October 22, 2009

Hi family and friends!
Wanted to let you know how my latest trip to Mayo went.

Unfortunetly, wasn't all good news!

Tuesday, I went in for the chest scan, and blood work.

Wednesday, I went to see the Dr. for the results and have chemo.

I have a new shadow, on my right lung, and and on my adrenal gland.
I also have a shadow on my lymph node...(same area as before)..
So, it was recommended we change chemo treatments to a different type,
with different goals. (the other treatments, were targeting tumors)...
this is just going throughout the body, and trying to get what is in it's way~
not sure how to explain it....

I now will have chemo once a week for three weeks, then a chest x ray;
then the same treatment the following three weeks, then a chest scan to
evaluate and see how things are working.

We are disappointed; however, we understand there are to be 'forks in the road',
so hopefully the next road will be a better destination.... if not, I feel the doctors' have 'maps of roads'!!!!!!
Please, continue the prayers and I do appreciate all of the encouragement I receive from
you all, in cards, calls and thoughts...

THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!
Kim and Bill!

Friday, September 25, 2009

Happy Fall!

Wanted to let you know the latest on my recent trip to mayo clinic.
I was there on the 23rd, had a chest Xray followed by my chemo treatment.
The Dr. is very happy with how my body is reacting, after the first chemo.
It appears, that the small tumor that was growing, has gotten smaller..... (about 1/4 inch)!
I will go back next month, and have a chest scan, and another chemo treatment....
we will see how the tumor/tumors look then.
I also need to have my flu shot 1 week before my next chemo.
so that is the update........
I hope tis finds you all well, and enjoying the fall weather.
As always, 'thank you' for the many thoughts and prayers,..... so appreciate them!
Kim

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Aug 30, 2009

Dear family and friends
I thought would catch you all up on my latest Dr. appointment, which took place
August, 26th.
According to the doctor, my lab work looked very good; seems my body is handling the
new chemo well.
I received the second treatment and will go back, on Sept. 23 for the next one.
At that time, they will also do a chest xray. He adjusted some of my meds, to help with
nausea, and possible leg pain. So far, so good!

Other than fatigue, I feel well.

Again, 'Thank you all' for the cards, thoughts, and prayers.......
The support and strength from all of you mean to Bill and I!
Hope this finds you all well!
Kim

Thursday, August 13, 2009

August 13,2009

Hi family and friends:

I wanted to send a quick note, letting you know I have
been doing well after the last chemo treatment....... the first week, was a bit tough, but
I am feeling stronger and better each day.

Today, I feel it is time to 'let my hair go'.......... it has gotten very thin, and
I feel, it is time to 'help' it along, and have my head shaved! A big moment for Bill and I,
but it needs to be done.......
Having Bill by my side will make it easier..........

I am Blessed by all of you and your thoughts and prayers..
Thank you all!
Kim

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

July 29, 2009
Hi family and friends!
Wanted to up-date you with the latest from Mayo and my
latest treatment. ( i did recieve the first of these treatments on tuesday)!

I met with the Dr. on Monday, and he explained the next 'plan of attack'!
He has recommended a different chemo treatment, with different drugs, and a little more aggresive. My side-effects will be increased, but, hopefully, not too tough! :)
I will continue, if my body responds well, every 21 days.
I can expect to have a scan every other treatment to see how the tumors are responding.
Dr. Creagan is confident and very enthusiastic, which makes me feel
so 'lucky' to have him in charge.
Again, We appreciate all of your prayers, thoughts and all you do..
Will keep you all posted!

always,
Kim

Saturday, July 11, 2009

Hi friends and family!
wanted to give you the up-date on my visit to mayo this past week.
on Thursday, i had a chest scan, not the body scan i thought i was getting.
my right lung continues to look great (miraculous), as the Dr. put it.
on the left lung, i have a tumor that continues to grow, (size of the end of a thumb)..... so we are taking a new path, and changing chemo drugs.

i didn't have chemo this time, as they want to make sure the last chemo
is out of my body........so on July 27th, i return for blood tests, and will talk to the Dr. again about which chemo he wants to use, and how often i will
get it. (he still thinks it could be every three weeks)

he is still very happy with my progression, and is so pleased on
the blood work, and how well i am handling the chemo!
i guess this is a turn in the road to 'fighting my cancer'........
I am feeling good and am anxious to begin the next treatment.
meanwhile, i look forward to having a bit more energy for awhile!

hope this finds you all well, and I can not tell you what your thoughts,
cards, calls, and prayers mean to us!
always,
kim

Sunday, July 5, 2009

July 5th, 2009

I had trouble getting on the website, so I apologize for not
writing sooner.

I hope you all had a great july 4th celebration!
Bill and I spent our 4th of July celebration in Kansas with
Colleen, Mike and their family, was nice and relaxing, as always.


I have been feeling well after this past chemo, and will be going
on the 9th for another body scan and chemo treatment if my body is up to it.
As always, I will keep you all posted on my visit.

Once again, I thank you for all of your thoughts, prayers and calls. I am truly Blessed!

Kim

:)


Sunday, June 14, 2009

June 11, 2009

Wanted to let you know, today I had chemo and met with the Dr.
what a great day it was........
when you hear the work 'miraculous' in terms of a tumor; i can not express that excitement and satisfaction!
The tumor in my right lung seems to have disappeared! or too small to see at this time....
i have three small ones in the left, that are still there, but they are small....
one seems to be slowly growing, he said he will look at it closer next month
and make some decisions about the chemo, and if we need to target that one in particular.........
he was very happy with everything, including the blood work once again.....
the encouragement and positive words were so good to hear..
he answered a few questions for me, and i feel better for asking them!! :)!
there are times, you really don't want to ask, in fear of the answers....
but................ so re-assuring!

i had written a few days ago, but not sure what happened.......
it is out there in 'cyber-space' confusing those bloggers who have no idea who i am or what i was talking about......
:)
thank you for your prayers, and thoughts!
the word 'miraculous' would not have been 'said' or 'happened', without you!
THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!

kim :)!

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Hi everyone......
once again, I apologize for not posting more often....
Been keeping busy, and resting, as well.
Still feel very fatigued, but that is expected!
Tomorrow, I go to Mayo, have my blood tested, and
will have my next treatment.

We celebrated Bella's second birthday here last month. She was thrilled
and had a great time.......
also been tending to the pool and yard . (never ending fun!)

Last weekend, Bill and I met Dan and Tracy at
Ed and Arlys' for a weekend of fishing......
the weather was not real cooperative, however, we did have a great time, and came home with fish!
hope this finds you all well, again THANKS for all of your notes, calls,
thoughts and prayers!
will keep you posted!

Monday, May 18, 2009

May 18th

Once again, spent the day at Mayo and saw my doctor.
I am doing so well, my blood work is good, and oxygen is good, as well.
The tumors are still there, but don't seem to be getting bigger, he feels they could be 'dormant' for the time being.
He asked me how I felt my quality of life was???
(wondering if we should take a chemo break)...
I told him, that other than fatigue and sore body, I really thought
I am doing well, and would like to continue the chemo treatments until
my body lets me know it is time for a 'break'.....
so, tomorrow, I will have my 8th treatment.
I am so thankful, for the support I have gotten from all
of my family, friends and doctor...... what a difference it makes in my
life!
THANK YOU ALL!

Monday, May 4, 2009

MAY 4TH

May 4,

Hi family and friends!
I wanted to give you an up-date, and let you know that
I am doing well, and for the most part, feeling good!
Still get very fatigued, but i am getting used to that
aspect of my treatment! I have no problem sitting and falling asleep!
;) !!

Been doing my walking, more and more, outside; as the weather permits!
which is nice!

My next appointment with the Dr. is on May 18th. I then have an
appointment on May 19th for Chemotherapy.
Will give you an update then.
I hope this finds you doing well.
Happy MOTHER'S DAY! TO ALL OF MY c0-moms!
as always, THANK YOU all for the prayers, cards, calls and positive thoughts...
means so much!
:)

Friday, April 17, 2009

APRIL 17

Family and Friends!

Didn't see Dr. Creagen, but one of his associates.

The ct scan did show a few spots where the tumors are,

and seems one may have disappeared.

The decision to go ahead with chemo was made, and

so we will find out next month, if i will continue or

take a break...... and let the body heal.....

I am 'up for the continued' fight, and looking forward to what

next month will bring!

Thank you all for the prayers, cards, calls and healing thoughts...

they sure help me!

:)

Friday, April 10, 2009

HAPPY EASTER!!!

HAPPY EASTER!!!!


I know it has been too long since I wrote, but don't know where the time goes.

I am doing right now; this last chemo has taken me for a 'loop!'..

I have felt very fatigued, and just worn out. But am doing much better now!

I go back to Mayo next Thursday, the 16th, and will have a variety of tests, including cat scan, blood, xrays, and etc......

from the tests, Dr. Creagan will determine the next course of action, whether I have chemo or take a break.

I will return to Mayo on Friday, the 17th to see what the plan is.

As always, I appreciate all of the cards, thoughts and prayers...

it means so much!

Bill and I hope you have a wonderful Blessed Easter!


Thanks, again!





Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Hi friends and family!

As the doctor told me today,I have "hit a home run"!!!!
news was so good...... the chest xray showed NO tumors!

I had my chemo treatment, and will return in april for
a cat scan and will determine then; what they see, and, if and when
I will take a break to let the body heal before more chemo treatments!
The treatments recently have left me tired most of the time, but
have been able to sleep, and I am sure, helps me in many ways!

I am very Blessed to have all of your thoughts, prayers and words
of encouragement!
Thank you so much.... you can not imagine how it makes me feel!
stay in touch!
:)

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Hi friends and family!
Happy St. Patrick's day!!!!!!
Tomorrow, the 18th, I go to Mayo, and will have blood and tests done
before my chemotherapy treatment.
They will determine if I will get a break after this treatment for a few
months or so, and give the body a rest.
I am doing fine, had a cold last week, but am feeling much better now...
still tire very easily.
I will let you know what I find out on the 18th... again 'THANK YOU' for
all of your prayers, cards and encouragement.
Stayed tuned!

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Hi to all of my family and friends!

Today, I went in for my chemo, and am feeling good!
The Dr. is so pleased with my blood work and how I am taking
the chemo, and how my body is handling it. I know from experience what the next few weeks will bring; as far as fatigue and nausea. I plan on eating many small meals and lots of naps!!! ....

I go again on March 18th, will have a chest Xray and another
chemo treatment. After the results, I will find out, if I will be taking
a break and letting the body heal from the treatments? Looks promising that will be the case.
After that, as I mentioned before, they will do periodic scans and they will dictate my treatments...
I will know more after the 18th.

Bill surprised me around Valentine's day with news of a get-a-way to San Francisco. We met Mike and Colleen, Bill's sister and brother-law, for a 5 days of sightseeing and went to the wine country..... Had a wonderful, fun time..... was a great break for Bill and me. We just returned yesterday.

again, thank you all so much for your prayers, thoughts, blogs.....
and most of all, for being there.... means so much!

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Thought I would drop a note and let you know how I am
feeling.....
Been tired this round, but I guess that is expected. I seem to be napping alot, but i am sure that is helping the body recover. (That is the way I would like to think of it) :)!
i am continuing my walking, either at home or at the mall.
Hope this finds you all well, and once again, I really appreciate your notes, cards, and blogs!
Thank you....

Monday, January 26, 2009

Again, GREAT NEWS!

My trip to Mayo today, went well...

After comparing my two chest xrays, the results are

obvious.... definetely gone down in size!!!

I had the chemo treatment today, and then

I will have another in 3 weeks...........

after that, we are taking a chemo break, so the body can build

back up!
my blood work is good. the fight is working!!!
As my dr. said, ' i am one 'tough cookie'!

after a 'chemo rest'; they will do a scan month to month, and from

that, they will decide when I will have chemo again!

again, THANK YOU.... the Prayers are working!

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

I thought I would give you all an up-date on how things are going....

Been doing pretty well.
The chemo has treated me about the same as the past two treatments.
Still some nausea and fatigue.... maybe a little more fatigued, but I guess that is to be expected.
still doing my walking; and eating as healthy as I can.
My throat has been sore, so I am definetely drinking more, trying to keep it moist.
Some of it is from the chemo, and some probably from the dry air.
My next chemo is on Monday, January 26...... I will also be having a chest xray....
will probably be another long day.
Will continue to up-date you..
My spirits are good! Your support and 'notes, blogs and cards' mean so much!
THANK YOU!!!

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

What great day today has been!!!!!

MY NEWS IS GOOD!


The tests today, confirmed that my tumors

have gone down 50%!!!!


More will follow, but it appears they will do two more

chemo treatments at this time, and see where that takes us!


CAN NOT EXPRESS HOW MUCH I APPRECIATE YOUR PRAYERS, CARDS, LETTERS AND SUPPORT!

WILL KEEP YOU POSTED..............

Saturday, January 3, 2009

Happy New Year family and friends!
May 2009 bring you much happiness and 'good health'!

Although 2008 ended with a challenge for me,
I never would have imagined; it has
created a 'fight' deep inside i didn't realize i had.

With all of your prayers, support, cards, and blogs, I continue to
find the strength and confidence to be successful in my challenge.
I can not "THANK YOU" enough!
Wednesday, Jan. 7th, I will be spending the day at Mayo having tests, and my third chemo treatment. Although nervous, I am anxious to move forward. I will update and keep you all posted........ stay tuned!