Sunday, July 6, 2008
Arrangements for Sheri
Just wanted to let everyone know the arrangements that we have made. Sheri's wake will be this Tuesday at Knollcrest Funeral Home in Lombard, from 2-9 pm. On Wednesday we will be meeting back at Knollcrest at 11:00am for anyone that would like to attend for a short prayer service and then we will be heading to the cemetery for her burial. Wednesday evening we will be having a Memorial Service for her at 7:30 pm at Faith Christian Reformed Church in Elmhurst, Illinois.
Sheri
As many of you have probably already heard, Sheri went to be with our Lord last night shortly before 6:00 pm. Her family was at her side and she went very peacefully. Once arrangements are made we will post them. Please continue to pray for our family.
Friday, July 4, 2008
From Sheri's Family
This is Mandy, Sheri's sister. I just wanted to let everybody know that in the last couple of days, Sheri's condition has worsened considerably. We have placed her in hospice care at this time. She is resting comfortably at my dad's house. Please continue to keep Sheri and my family in your prayers through this very difficult time.
Proverbs 3:5
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding."
Psalm 46:1
"God is our refuge and strength. An everpresent help in trouble."
Proverbs 3:5
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding."
Psalm 46:1
"God is our refuge and strength. An everpresent help in trouble."
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Update
I am so sorry that I have left you all hanging...the last two weeks have been a whirlwind.
I had emergency surgery on Sunday, June 1st at 2am because I had a hole in my intestines and it was letting air into my body. The doctors talked to us and they weren't sure if they would fine the hole, if i would make it through the surgery, or make it through the recovery process.
Praise God! I made it through the surgery...they found the hole right away. I have been recovering well. I am still in the hospital, hoping to go home in the next couple of days.
Well, I am tired and heading back to my hospital room. Please keep me in your prayers...I know that you have...thank you!
All my love, Sheri
I had emergency surgery on Sunday, June 1st at 2am because I had a hole in my intestines and it was letting air into my body. The doctors talked to us and they weren't sure if they would fine the hole, if i would make it through the surgery, or make it through the recovery process.
Praise God! I made it through the surgery...they found the hole right away. I have been recovering well. I am still in the hospital, hoping to go home in the next couple of days.
Well, I am tired and heading back to my hospital room. Please keep me in your prayers...I know that you have...thank you!
All my love, Sheri
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Week Three Thursday
I am in much better spirits tonight. My stomach still feels bloated, but I am not letting it get me down.
This morning was a little rough because I didn't sleep much last night, for whatever reason. I wasn't in pain or anything; my body just didn't want to let me sleep. When I got to school there were some of my vigilant prayer warriors ready to pray with me. What a blessing! After that, my day turned for the positive. I made it the whole day at school!
I must say that I am very sick and tired of fighting this battle. I wish that God would just take it away from me and heal my body of all the cancer. I know that He will do what is in His plan and at His time. I just have to be patient, keep the faith, and remember that He is with me.
I will keep fighting because I am not ready to give up!
This morning was a little rough because I didn't sleep much last night, for whatever reason. I wasn't in pain or anything; my body just didn't want to let me sleep. When I got to school there were some of my vigilant prayer warriors ready to pray with me. What a blessing! After that, my day turned for the positive. I made it the whole day at school!
I must say that I am very sick and tired of fighting this battle. I wish that God would just take it away from me and heal my body of all the cancer. I know that He will do what is in His plan and at His time. I just have to be patient, keep the faith, and remember that He is with me.
I will keep fighting because I am not ready to give up!
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Week Three Wednesday
I'm very uncomfortable right now. It isn't back pain this time, it is my stomach. I feel so bloated. It amazes me because I feel so huge, like I am going to pop. It makes me nervous. I'm sure that I am not any bigger than I have been, but it sure does feel like it.
Sometimes it is so hard to stay positive and not cry. It is times like this that I find myself asking God "why me?!" I know that He has a plan for my life and that it is being worked out, but I don't understand sometimes why it has to be filled with so much pain and suffering.
I guess I just have to remember Romans 5 from yesterday, that "suffering produces perseverance." I just have to try my hardest to remain positive and persevere. God loves me, He never leaves me, and someday I will go to live for eternity with Him in heaven.
Isaiah 53:4 "Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows."
Sometimes it is so hard to stay positive and not cry. It is times like this that I find myself asking God "why me?!" I know that He has a plan for my life and that it is being worked out, but I don't understand sometimes why it has to be filled with so much pain and suffering.
I guess I just have to remember Romans 5 from yesterday, that "suffering produces perseverance." I just have to try my hardest to remain positive and persevere. God loves me, He never leaves me, and someday I will go to live for eternity with Him in heaven.
Isaiah 53:4 "Surely he took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows."
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Week Three Tuesday
Hmmm...what can I type tonight?
My doctor's appointment went pretty well yesterday. Dr. Sharma said that my stomach felt softer to him than it had last time. That is good news. Although the effects of this chemo might not be fully evident until 3-4 rounds, Dr. Sharma said that after the next round of chemo I would have a CT scan to see what was going on. He wants to see if the tumors are still growing, or if they have stayed the same size. that CT scan won't be until the week of June 9th. Keep praying that the chemo is working and the tumors are shrinking!
My white blood cells had come up quite nicely. They were pretty high, which is good, because they should still be up next week for chemo. My platelets are on their way up, which is also a good thing. My hemoglobin was still pretty low, right on the border of needing a transfusion. Dr. Sharma actually gave me the option of getting blood or not today, based on how I was feeling. Yesterday I was still very tired and a little short of breath. Today though was a totally different story. I woke up very energized and not short of breath at all. I called in sick last night, just in case I needed to get blood. It was nice to sleep in and relax all day. Tomorrow is back to school. (only 9 1/2 days left ~ whoo hoo!)
Evenings this week have been rough. My back discomfort has been pretty great. It seems like the medicine that I take to help eleviate the pain takes quite a while to kick in. For that reason, I am looking forward to chemo next week...the premeds help keep my back from hurting.
I have a picture in my bathroom that has a very applicable Bible verse on it.
Romans 5:3-5
"...but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, who he has given us."
When you are faced with sufferings, you have two choices: Fight or Flight...
Sometimes when I sit in the chemo room and listen to the women around me, I wonder how they can fight this disease without the Lord. I don't know for sure who is a believer and who isn't, but some of the women you can tell aren't. I know for a fact that I could not fight this without my faith. Verses like Romans 5 give me such strength. Although I have the support and prayers of all of you, more importantly, I am in the palm of God's hand. He never will put me down. That fact is so comforting!
I thank you for your continued prayers and support. I can feel them...each and every one!
My doctor's appointment went pretty well yesterday. Dr. Sharma said that my stomach felt softer to him than it had last time. That is good news. Although the effects of this chemo might not be fully evident until 3-4 rounds, Dr. Sharma said that after the next round of chemo I would have a CT scan to see what was going on. He wants to see if the tumors are still growing, or if they have stayed the same size. that CT scan won't be until the week of June 9th. Keep praying that the chemo is working and the tumors are shrinking!
My white blood cells had come up quite nicely. They were pretty high, which is good, because they should still be up next week for chemo. My platelets are on their way up, which is also a good thing. My hemoglobin was still pretty low, right on the border of needing a transfusion. Dr. Sharma actually gave me the option of getting blood or not today, based on how I was feeling. Yesterday I was still very tired and a little short of breath. Today though was a totally different story. I woke up very energized and not short of breath at all. I called in sick last night, just in case I needed to get blood. It was nice to sleep in and relax all day. Tomorrow is back to school. (only 9 1/2 days left ~ whoo hoo!)
Evenings this week have been rough. My back discomfort has been pretty great. It seems like the medicine that I take to help eleviate the pain takes quite a while to kick in. For that reason, I am looking forward to chemo next week...the premeds help keep my back from hurting.
I have a picture in my bathroom that has a very applicable Bible verse on it.
Romans 5:3-5
"...but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, who he has given us."
When you are faced with sufferings, you have two choices: Fight or Flight...
Sometimes when I sit in the chemo room and listen to the women around me, I wonder how they can fight this disease without the Lord. I don't know for sure who is a believer and who isn't, but some of the women you can tell aren't. I know for a fact that I could not fight this without my faith. Verses like Romans 5 give me such strength. Although I have the support and prayers of all of you, more importantly, I am in the palm of God's hand. He never will put me down. That fact is so comforting!
I thank you for your continued prayers and support. I can feel them...each and every one!
Friday, May 16, 2008
Week Two Friday
I've made it to Friday of this second week. It has been an up and down week. My counts were too low to go to school. I was exhausted and needed to stay home to rest. I received shots everyday. My hemoglobin was up and down...almost to the point of needing a blood transfusion. My platelets dropped down to double digits, when they should be above 140 or so.
Today's blood test had pretty good results. My white blood count has really come up quite a bit; even so I need to get shots over the weekend. Peg just wants to make sure it gets up high enough before my next week of chemo. My hemoglobin still isn't where it should be, so I just need to take it easy this weekend. Platelets are still low; hopefully they will start to come up over the weekend.
Even though it has been an up and down week, I have kept in mind that God is in control. He knows what my counts are going to be before the blood is even pulled from my body. Isn't that amazing? God knows every thought in our minds, every step we are going to take, and everything that is going to happen to us. He is an amazing and powerful God. I am so thankful that I do not have to worry about my life. He has me in the palm of his hand.
Psalm 103: 2 "Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits"
Today's blood test had pretty good results. My white blood count has really come up quite a bit; even so I need to get shots over the weekend. Peg just wants to make sure it gets up high enough before my next week of chemo. My hemoglobin still isn't where it should be, so I just need to take it easy this weekend. Platelets are still low; hopefully they will start to come up over the weekend.
Even though it has been an up and down week, I have kept in mind that God is in control. He knows what my counts are going to be before the blood is even pulled from my body. Isn't that amazing? God knows every thought in our minds, every step we are going to take, and everything that is going to happen to us. He is an amazing and powerful God. I am so thankful that I do not have to worry about my life. He has me in the palm of his hand.
Psalm 103: 2 "Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits"
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Week Two Day Three
I went to school this morning, but after going to the doctor's office for a blood test I had to go home because my white blood cell count was too low. I don't want to be at school with 1000 kids and their germs - who knows what they have and what I could catch. My body is compromised right now and cannot fight off simple infections, so I am best to be away from large groups of people.
I am still going for daily shots to help boost my white blood cells. Hopefully by Friday all the shots will have started working and my counts will be up.
I am in good spirits. I know that this is just a part of what chemo does to my body, so I just have to grin and bear.
Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
I am still going for daily shots to help boost my white blood cells. Hopefully by Friday all the shots will have started working and my counts will be up.
I am in good spirits. I know that this is just a part of what chemo does to my body, so I just have to grin and bear.
Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Monday, May 12, 2008
Week Two Round One
My first week of five chemo treatments is over. I survived. It actually wasn't too bad. I didn't have any negative side effects during the week. I really felt pretty good.
This past weekend wasn't too bad either. I was (and still am) extremely tired and my back/side pain has come back. If this is the worst of it, I can definately handle it.
I went to the doctor's office today for a blood test. Of course my counts have dropped, but they aren't too low. I was still able to go to school today. Peg, the head nurse, thinks that my counts (white blood cells) are going to continue to drop as the week progresses. I was lucky enough to get two shots today to try to help build up my white blood cells and hemoglobin. I have to go back every day this week to get shots. I am not looking forward to it, but it is something I have to do.
Please pray that my counts don't drop too low. Thank you!
This past weekend wasn't too bad either. I was (and still am) extremely tired and my back/side pain has come back. If this is the worst of it, I can definately handle it.
I went to the doctor's office today for a blood test. Of course my counts have dropped, but they aren't too low. I was still able to go to school today. Peg, the head nurse, thinks that my counts (white blood cells) are going to continue to drop as the week progresses. I was lucky enough to get two shots today to try to help build up my white blood cells and hemoglobin. I have to go back every day this week to get shots. I am not looking forward to it, but it is something I have to do.
Please pray that my counts don't drop too low. Thank you!
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Day Three Round One
Day three is over. Still hanging in there. Not seeing any side effects yet. Praise God for that!
Feeling bloated from the fluids I received. Nothing I can't handle. Hopefully by morning it will be better. It was this morning, so I will hope and pray that it is the same tomorrow morning.
Don't really have much else to say, but thought I would let you know I am doing well tonight.
Listening to praise and worship music as I sit here and type. Music is powerful. The words to some songs are so meaningful and inspiring. Right now, Barlow Girl's "Never Alone" is playing. A good reminder that we are never alone; God is always right by our sides.
Again I leave you with a couple of verses...
Psalm 66:19 "God surely listened and heard my voice in prayer."
2 Corinthians 4:17-18 "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."
Good night...
Feeling bloated from the fluids I received. Nothing I can't handle. Hopefully by morning it will be better. It was this morning, so I will hope and pray that it is the same tomorrow morning.
Don't really have much else to say, but thought I would let you know I am doing well tonight.
Listening to praise and worship music as I sit here and type. Music is powerful. The words to some songs are so meaningful and inspiring. Right now, Barlow Girl's "Never Alone" is playing. A good reminder that we are never alone; God is always right by our sides.
Again I leave you with a couple of verses...
Psalm 66:19 "God surely listened and heard my voice in prayer."
2 Corinthians 4:17-18 "For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."
Good night...
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Day Two Round One
First, I want to thank all of you out there who have made the committment to pray The Lord's Prayer for forty days. I truly appreciate all your prayers. If you have no idea what I am talking about, check out the comments on the entry entitled "Friends."
Today was day 2 of my chemo. I have 3 more days to go this week. I am feeling pretty good. So far, no side effects. Although, now that I have said that, they will probably come on. :)
Yesterday at school was a really long day. I was so anxious to get to Dr. Sharma's to start my chemo. It was almost as if I was excited to start it. I know that is a weird thought, but I was ready. Sitting around since Thursday knowing that I have these tumors growing inside of me was pretty intense. I felt so helpless.
I am very positive and confident that this chemo is going to be effective in shrinking the tumors.
Peg, the head nurse at Dr. Sharma's office, told me today that she was worried about me because most likely my white blood cells are going to drop really low. That is definately something I am not looking forward to because it means SHOTS and NO SCHOOL! Dad told me not to start worrying about it now because it is only Tuesday. He is right. I just have to take things one day at a time and roll with the punches. I think I do a pretty good job of that, but when I think of low white blood counts I remember back to last summer when I was stuck in my apartment all by myself because I couldn't go around people for fear of infections. (Sorry for the run-on sentence)
Well, since today is Tuesday and I have a few days left of treatments, I am just going to focus on the positives. I feel good. I still have my hair. I am still strong enough to go to school...I even taught today!! (I haven't been teaching because I have a student teacher, Judy, who is AWESOME! What a blessing to have a student teacher during this time!) I have tons of people surrounding me with their love, support and prayers. I have a wonderful God, who never leaves me. What can be better than that?!
A verse from my devotions last night was so reassuring to me:
Psalm 30:2 "O Lord my God, I called to you for help and you healed me."
It is awesome knowing that David was able to pray that to God. And I am sure that there are so many others who have the same prayer. It will be me in the not too distant future. God is going to heal me!
I will leave you with the following verse...even though it is often hard to do during tragic times, it feels so good...
Psalm 9:1-2 "I will praise you, O Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders. I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High."
Today was day 2 of my chemo. I have 3 more days to go this week. I am feeling pretty good. So far, no side effects. Although, now that I have said that, they will probably come on. :)
Yesterday at school was a really long day. I was so anxious to get to Dr. Sharma's to start my chemo. It was almost as if I was excited to start it. I know that is a weird thought, but I was ready. Sitting around since Thursday knowing that I have these tumors growing inside of me was pretty intense. I felt so helpless.
I am very positive and confident that this chemo is going to be effective in shrinking the tumors.
Peg, the head nurse at Dr. Sharma's office, told me today that she was worried about me because most likely my white blood cells are going to drop really low. That is definately something I am not looking forward to because it means SHOTS and NO SCHOOL! Dad told me not to start worrying about it now because it is only Tuesday. He is right. I just have to take things one day at a time and roll with the punches. I think I do a pretty good job of that, but when I think of low white blood counts I remember back to last summer when I was stuck in my apartment all by myself because I couldn't go around people for fear of infections. (Sorry for the run-on sentence)
Well, since today is Tuesday and I have a few days left of treatments, I am just going to focus on the positives. I feel good. I still have my hair. I am still strong enough to go to school...I even taught today!! (I haven't been teaching because I have a student teacher, Judy, who is AWESOME! What a blessing to have a student teacher during this time!) I have tons of people surrounding me with their love, support and prayers. I have a wonderful God, who never leaves me. What can be better than that?!
A verse from my devotions last night was so reassuring to me:
Psalm 30:2 "O Lord my God, I called to you for help and you healed me."
It is awesome knowing that David was able to pray that to God. And I am sure that there are so many others who have the same prayer. It will be me in the not too distant future. God is going to heal me!
I will leave you with the following verse...even though it is often hard to do during tragic times, it feels so good...
Psalm 9:1-2 "I will praise you, O Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders. I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High."
Friday, May 2, 2008
Friends
I have an AMAZING circle of friends!
They are so uplifting and supportive. Words cannot express how thankful I am for them or how much I love them! God has truly blessed me by putting them in my life.
It seems to me that they each know exactly what to say or do when I need it. Even when I don't think I need anything, they do something and I feel better instantly. Just knowing that they are in my corner, helping me fight this battle, makes me want to keep fighting with everything I have.
To each and everyone one of you, you know who you are, I love you oh so very much! I thank you for all the things that you have done to help me fight this battle. Thank you for letting me cry on your shoulders. Thank you for keeping me positive when I start to get down. Thank you for helping get my mind off of things when I need that. Thank you for our dinners out, our game nights, and our text messages back and forth. Most of all, thank you for your hugs, smiles, and prayers.
I love you guys!
They are so uplifting and supportive. Words cannot express how thankful I am for them or how much I love them! God has truly blessed me by putting them in my life.
It seems to me that they each know exactly what to say or do when I need it. Even when I don't think I need anything, they do something and I feel better instantly. Just knowing that they are in my corner, helping me fight this battle, makes me want to keep fighting with everything I have.
To each and everyone one of you, you know who you are, I love you oh so very much! I thank you for all the things that you have done to help me fight this battle. Thank you for letting me cry on your shoulders. Thank you for keeping me positive when I start to get down. Thank you for helping get my mind off of things when I need that. Thank you for our dinners out, our game nights, and our text messages back and forth. Most of all, thank you for your hugs, smiles, and prayers.
I love you guys!
Thursday, May 1, 2008
CT Results
Many of you have already heard what the results of my CT scan were, but for those of you who don't know...it was not good news that I heard today.
The chemo that I have been on for the last two months has not been working. The tumors that I have inside of me have grown. The doctor didn't say how big they are, but by the size of my belly, I would say that they have grown quite a bit. He said that my abdomen is swollen because of the tumor's growth, not any fluid or anything else.
I feel like I know my body pretty good and for the first month I think the chemo was working, or at least trying to work because I didn't really have any bloating and I felt pretty good. But for the last two weeks, I have been starting to bloat and just not feeling right. I honestly think that over the last two weeks is when these nasty little beasts started growing.
The new plan to battle this cancer is that I will be starting a new drug on Monday afternoon. It is administered byt giving me half an hour of pre-meds, then half an hour of the chemo, for a total time of an hour. Not too bad. I will get that same hour of meds for five days straight (a week), then I get two weeks off, and we start over.
The nurse told me that the doctor will see what happens week by week or round by round and decide as we go when I will get my next CT scan. It should be pretty easy to tell if it is working by how my abdomen reacts. I would guess that if it starts to go down the tumors will be shrinking.
The side effects are pretty much the same as all the others...possible hair loss, dropping of white/red blood cell counts, dropping of platelet counts, extreme tiredness, nausea, etc... As you see I started with the hair loss thing...I hope to keep my hair still. The nurse told me that the people that are currently on this drug that she knows now all have their hair. So I am hopeful.
I plan on receiving this chemo after school each day and I am going to try to go in every day as I have been doing. My principal and co-workers have been so supportive of me during everything. They were really wonderful today when I went in after my doctor's appointment. Everybody has surrounded me with their love and support.
I have been all over the map emotionally today. But, I am doing well. I have dried up all the tears I could cry and I am just ready to get started so my abdomen starts to shrink! I have faith in God that he is in full control and my life is already planned out. He knows whether or not this chemo will work and what the next weeks hold for me.
I know there are many prayers going up for me and I am so appreciative of them all. Specifically, please pray that this new chemo is effective in shrinking the tumors, that my white counts don't drop too low, and that my hair doesn't fall out. Thank you!
"For nothing is impossible with God!" ~Luke 1:37
The chemo that I have been on for the last two months has not been working. The tumors that I have inside of me have grown. The doctor didn't say how big they are, but by the size of my belly, I would say that they have grown quite a bit. He said that my abdomen is swollen because of the tumor's growth, not any fluid or anything else.
I feel like I know my body pretty good and for the first month I think the chemo was working, or at least trying to work because I didn't really have any bloating and I felt pretty good. But for the last two weeks, I have been starting to bloat and just not feeling right. I honestly think that over the last two weeks is when these nasty little beasts started growing.
The new plan to battle this cancer is that I will be starting a new drug on Monday afternoon. It is administered byt giving me half an hour of pre-meds, then half an hour of the chemo, for a total time of an hour. Not too bad. I will get that same hour of meds for five days straight (a week), then I get two weeks off, and we start over.
The nurse told me that the doctor will see what happens week by week or round by round and decide as we go when I will get my next CT scan. It should be pretty easy to tell if it is working by how my abdomen reacts. I would guess that if it starts to go down the tumors will be shrinking.
The side effects are pretty much the same as all the others...possible hair loss, dropping of white/red blood cell counts, dropping of platelet counts, extreme tiredness, nausea, etc... As you see I started with the hair loss thing...I hope to keep my hair still. The nurse told me that the people that are currently on this drug that she knows now all have their hair. So I am hopeful.
I plan on receiving this chemo after school each day and I am going to try to go in every day as I have been doing. My principal and co-workers have been so supportive of me during everything. They were really wonderful today when I went in after my doctor's appointment. Everybody has surrounded me with their love and support.
I have been all over the map emotionally today. But, I am doing well. I have dried up all the tears I could cry and I am just ready to get started so my abdomen starts to shrink! I have faith in God that he is in full control and my life is already planned out. He knows whether or not this chemo will work and what the next weeks hold for me.
I know there are many prayers going up for me and I am so appreciative of them all. Specifically, please pray that this new chemo is effective in shrinking the tumors, that my white counts don't drop too low, and that my hair doesn't fall out. Thank you!
"For nothing is impossible with God!" ~Luke 1:37
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
New Pic
The white and grey dog is Elliot. The black and tan is Phylis. Unfortunately I couldn't get the picture to stay centered so you can't really see Phylis. Sorry
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Home Again
My CT scan seemed to have gone alright this morning. I won't find out the results until I go for my exam on Thursday morning.
After my scan I went to school, but I wasn't feeling too good. Drinking that nasty stuff really does a number on my system. I was able to stay half a day, but just didn't feel right so I left early. Obviously I didn't sleep well last night, and that mixed with a fever and a messed up stomach, school was not the place for me.
It really frustrates me that I am not feeling great this week. It is my off week from chemo and I feel worse than I do during the chemo weeks. I am still running a slight fever and I am bloated. I know that it is only Tuesday and the week is young, so I hope that my fever breaks and I start to feel better. I don't want to waste this off week not feeling good.
After my scan I went to school, but I wasn't feeling too good. Drinking that nasty stuff really does a number on my system. I was able to stay half a day, but just didn't feel right so I left early. Obviously I didn't sleep well last night, and that mixed with a fever and a messed up stomach, school was not the place for me.
It really frustrates me that I am not feeling great this week. It is my off week from chemo and I feel worse than I do during the chemo weeks. I am still running a slight fever and I am bloated. I know that it is only Tuesday and the week is young, so I hope that my fever breaks and I start to feel better. I don't want to waste this off week not feeling good.
Can't Sleep
It's late, I'm tired, yet sleep will not come. I am fighting a fever and it is breaking, so I am sweating like crazy. I have taken a couple of different things to help bring sleep, but they are not working.
I have a CT scan in the morning, so I had to drink this nasty liquid before I went to bed. I also have to drink more of it in the morning. I am anxious to get the results from the CT scan. This is the first one since I started chemo. I am praying that the tumors have shrunk. My exam with Dr. Sharma is Thursday, so I will have the results back then.
I am so bloated. It's uncomfortable. It's a side effect from the chemo. Many of my clothes are not fitting properly anymore. They are tight. It's frustrating.
My favorite song just came on the radio. I'm tired. I need to sleep.
I have a CT scan in the morning, so I had to drink this nasty liquid before I went to bed. I also have to drink more of it in the morning. I am anxious to get the results from the CT scan. This is the first one since I started chemo. I am praying that the tumors have shrunk. My exam with Dr. Sharma is Thursday, so I will have the results back then.
I am so bloated. It's uncomfortable. It's a side effect from the chemo. Many of my clothes are not fitting properly anymore. They are tight. It's frustrating.
My favorite song just came on the radio. I'm tired. I need to sleep.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
One More Thing
Before I try to sleep...I want to thank everybody who leaves me comments. Thank you for those that make me laugh, those that warm my heart, and those that bring tears to my eyes.
Your posts remind me why I keep battling and fighting to be cancer free! I want to spend many more years on this earth with you as my friends!
I also want to thank those of you who don't leave posts, but say a prayer for me when you read what I have written.
I am truly blessed to have friends and family like you all! I couldn't ask for any better people in my life. You all hold a special place in my heart! And I know for a fact that I could not make it through this battle without each one of you!
May God bless you each in a special way! I love you!
Your posts remind me why I keep battling and fighting to be cancer free! I want to spend many more years on this earth with you as my friends!
I also want to thank those of you who don't leave posts, but say a prayer for me when you read what I have written.
I am truly blessed to have friends and family like you all! I couldn't ask for any better people in my life. You all hold a special place in my heart! And I know for a fact that I could not make it through this battle without each one of you!
May God bless you each in a special way! I love you!
Not Tired
What a difference a day makes! It is after 11 o'clock at night on Tuesday night and I am NOT tired, not even a little bit. I have to blame it on the steroids that I am taking though. Ask anybody that is around me on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays...they JACK ME UP! I am a random motor-mouth that just doesn't stop! I must say that I actually like taking them though because they help eleviate some of the bloating that I feel. Now, it doesn't go away entirely, but it makes things much more tolerable. My belly button has gone from a complete inny to almost a full outy. It is gross. Thought you'd like to know that. :)
So, here I sit...in my bed, with my laptop, listening to the radio. Sleep just doesn't want to come. I even took a pill to try to help. It could be a long night, or I could just force myself to turn everything off and toss and turn for awhile. I decided against that for now.
I have painted my toe nails three times. I just couldn't get the color right. My big toe nail is really nasty. It is almost completely black and it has a HUGE ridge in it. It is really weird. It appears as though I stubbed it really badly on something, except I don't ever remember doing that. I think it is from the first round of chemo way back last summer. But, who knows...weird...and UGLY! Thank God for dark colored nailpolish!
I think I have a little bit of heartburn. I'm not sure if it is from something I ate or a pill that I took. But whatever the cause...it is annoying.
Hmm...what else is on my mind...there is this semi-new Matthew West song that I really like. I just downloaded it on to my phone as a ringtone. Right now it is Mike's ringer because he calls the most, so I figured I would hear it the most. The name of it is You Are Everything. For those of you who don't know...Matthew West is a contemporary Christian artist. It starts with a really cool piano intro and the first few lines of the song are AWESOME, well actually the whole song is.
"I'm the one with two left feet, standing on a lonely street. I can't even walk a straight line. And everytime you look at me, I'm spinning like an autumn leaf bound to hit bottom sometime. Where would I be without someone to save me? Someone who won't let me fall. You are everything that I live for, everything that I can't believe is happening, you're standing right in front of me with arms wide open, all I know is every day is filled with hope."
Isn't that awesome!? I totally feel like I could have written that on many days. Seriously, if you get a chance, check the song out. Verse two is just as good as verse one!! It talks about life being filled with big mistakes and big regrets, but that God looks at us as more than that, as if we are more than "just a beautiful mess." I would have to say that this song is probably one of the most influencing songs in my life right now. It just gives me so much hope and reassurance that I am not alone and how messy I feel like my life is, God has it all planned out. And to Him I am beautiful and my life has purpose. What an awesome thought!
Ok, I should probably try to get some sleep. My alarm will go off before I know it and I want to be rested up for tomorrow. Chemo week three for round two. Yippee! That was sarcasm at its finest. I am not looking forward to it. The chemo part isn't so bad, it is the weekend after that can be a little hairy. The best part about this week of chemo is that I don't have to do it again for TWO WHOLE WEEKS!! That gets a WHOO HOOO!
Good night!
So, here I sit...in my bed, with my laptop, listening to the radio. Sleep just doesn't want to come. I even took a pill to try to help. It could be a long night, or I could just force myself to turn everything off and toss and turn for awhile. I decided against that for now.
I have painted my toe nails three times. I just couldn't get the color right. My big toe nail is really nasty. It is almost completely black and it has a HUGE ridge in it. It is really weird. It appears as though I stubbed it really badly on something, except I don't ever remember doing that. I think it is from the first round of chemo way back last summer. But, who knows...weird...and UGLY! Thank God for dark colored nailpolish!
I think I have a little bit of heartburn. I'm not sure if it is from something I ate or a pill that I took. But whatever the cause...it is annoying.
Hmm...what else is on my mind...there is this semi-new Matthew West song that I really like. I just downloaded it on to my phone as a ringtone. Right now it is Mike's ringer because he calls the most, so I figured I would hear it the most. The name of it is You Are Everything. For those of you who don't know...Matthew West is a contemporary Christian artist. It starts with a really cool piano intro and the first few lines of the song are AWESOME, well actually the whole song is.
"I'm the one with two left feet, standing on a lonely street. I can't even walk a straight line. And everytime you look at me, I'm spinning like an autumn leaf bound to hit bottom sometime. Where would I be without someone to save me? Someone who won't let me fall. You are everything that I live for, everything that I can't believe is happening, you're standing right in front of me with arms wide open, all I know is every day is filled with hope."
Isn't that awesome!? I totally feel like I could have written that on many days. Seriously, if you get a chance, check the song out. Verse two is just as good as verse one!! It talks about life being filled with big mistakes and big regrets, but that God looks at us as more than that, as if we are more than "just a beautiful mess." I would have to say that this song is probably one of the most influencing songs in my life right now. It just gives me so much hope and reassurance that I am not alone and how messy I feel like my life is, God has it all planned out. And to Him I am beautiful and my life has purpose. What an awesome thought!
Ok, I should probably try to get some sleep. My alarm will go off before I know it and I want to be rested up for tomorrow. Chemo week three for round two. Yippee! That was sarcasm at its finest. I am not looking forward to it. The chemo part isn't so bad, it is the weekend after that can be a little hairy. The best part about this week of chemo is that I don't have to do it again for TWO WHOLE WEEKS!! That gets a WHOO HOOO!
Good night!
Monday, April 21, 2008
Tired
I barely made it to school today. I was so tired. I left early...at the half day mark. My body just wouldn't move. I was walking slowly and my side pain was still around.
I don't know what is worse, a really terrible weekend but feeling alright on Monday, or having a not so rough weekend but being extremely tired and sore on Monday still.
When I got home, I took a two hour nap and woke up feeling refreshed. I am just laying low now. I hope that by the time tomorrow rolls around I will be feeling back to "normal."
I am definately getting sick of this chemo crap. I think the part that makes it the worst to deal with is that the side effects aren't consistant. I can't tell what is going to happen from one week to the next. It would be much easier to deal with if I could.
Oh well...I keep chugging along~~~
I don't know what is worse, a really terrible weekend but feeling alright on Monday, or having a not so rough weekend but being extremely tired and sore on Monday still.
When I got home, I took a two hour nap and woke up feeling refreshed. I am just laying low now. I hope that by the time tomorrow rolls around I will be feeling back to "normal."
I am definately getting sick of this chemo crap. I think the part that makes it the worst to deal with is that the side effects aren't consistant. I can't tell what is going to happen from one week to the next. It would be much easier to deal with if I could.
Oh well...I keep chugging along~~~
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Sunshine
Today I woke up to the sun shining brightly and the birds were singing. It is definately a wonderful spring day here in the Chicagoland area.
For this last treatment I asked the nurse if I could change my steroid dosage to see if it made a difference in how the side effects were. She told me that would be fine. It seems to have made a huge change. I have been tired and I have had side pain with major bloating, but other than that, nothing has been too bad. I have had a tiny fever to go along with those things, but honestly, I feel much better than I have the last two times.
Friday night I was able to be the "student coach" at our school's annual faculty vs. student basketball game. It was a blast. My students beat out the teachers by one point. They were very excited! I was just happy that I could be there and be feeling well enough to participate.
Friday night when I got home is when my bloating and side pain started. Yesterday I laid pretty low and I am continuing to do so today. Although with the weather so nice out today, I think I am going to go sit outside for a little bit.
Enjoy the warmth and the sun!
For this last treatment I asked the nurse if I could change my steroid dosage to see if it made a difference in how the side effects were. She told me that would be fine. It seems to have made a huge change. I have been tired and I have had side pain with major bloating, but other than that, nothing has been too bad. I have had a tiny fever to go along with those things, but honestly, I feel much better than I have the last two times.
Friday night I was able to be the "student coach" at our school's annual faculty vs. student basketball game. It was a blast. My students beat out the teachers by one point. They were very excited! I was just happy that I could be there and be feeling well enough to participate.
Friday night when I got home is when my bloating and side pain started. Yesterday I laid pretty low and I am continuing to do so today. Although with the weather so nice out today, I think I am going to go sit outside for a little bit.
Enjoy the warmth and the sun!
Monday, April 14, 2008
Attitude
Positive attitude. Cheerful attitude.
Sometimes it is so hard to feel like having those kinds of attitudes, especially when I am feeling so crappy. This past weekend was very rough on me, both physically and emotionally. I had body aches and a fever. On top of that, I just wanted to give up. I kept telling myself that this fight is not worth it. Thankfully, I have wonderful people in my life who pray and support me. No matter how down I got, they would send a text, make a call, or leave a comment on this blog, to encourage me. Honestly, I could not be doing this without the support of all of you! Thank you so much, from the bottom of my heart!
It is amazing to me that just when you think that God isn't going to answer your prayers, he does. It just goes to prove that he does everything in his time, not ours. I prayed all weekend for him to take my pain and fever away. Obviously, he knew that today was the day I needed to feel good so I could go to school. Amazing!
I woke up this morning to birds singing and the sun shining! I felt much, much better. My fever and body aches were almost non-existant. I never used to think that I had an opinion when the sun wasn't shining, but now I know for sure that I do. I cannot stand it when it is cloudy! My whole attitude changes. I feel better when the sun shines. Now, I wouldn't say that I am depressed when it is cloudy, but I have a better outlook on life when the sun shines. Weird.
I know that I thank you guys a lot for reading this, your prayers, and your support. But, I truly, truly mean it. I would not be as strong as I am today without you!
Smooches!!
Sometimes it is so hard to feel like having those kinds of attitudes, especially when I am feeling so crappy. This past weekend was very rough on me, both physically and emotionally. I had body aches and a fever. On top of that, I just wanted to give up. I kept telling myself that this fight is not worth it. Thankfully, I have wonderful people in my life who pray and support me. No matter how down I got, they would send a text, make a call, or leave a comment on this blog, to encourage me. Honestly, I could not be doing this without the support of all of you! Thank you so much, from the bottom of my heart!
It is amazing to me that just when you think that God isn't going to answer your prayers, he does. It just goes to prove that he does everything in his time, not ours. I prayed all weekend for him to take my pain and fever away. Obviously, he knew that today was the day I needed to feel good so I could go to school. Amazing!
I woke up this morning to birds singing and the sun shining! I felt much, much better. My fever and body aches were almost non-existant. I never used to think that I had an opinion when the sun wasn't shining, but now I know for sure that I do. I cannot stand it when it is cloudy! My whole attitude changes. I feel better when the sun shines. Now, I wouldn't say that I am depressed when it is cloudy, but I have a better outlook on life when the sun shines. Weird.
I know that I thank you guys a lot for reading this, your prayers, and your support. But, I truly, truly mean it. I would not be as strong as I am today without you!
Smooches!!
Friday, April 11, 2008
Round 2
So, Wednesday I started my second round of this second battle. I felt pretty good Wednesday evening and even pretty good Thursday during the day. Thursday night I started to feel really crappy. I had major back pain...like to the point where I threw up it was so great. I was finally able to keep some vicodin and sleeping pills down, so I ended up getting a pretty good night's sleep.
I made it to school today. I was tired and just pretty much out of it. I felt the effects of the chemo coming on about 2pm. I started taking tylenol to try to offset the bone pain and took a nap when I got home from school.
I feel like it is going to be a very long weekend because I am pretty uncomfortable already. My lower back hurts, my head hurts, my neck hurts, I'm not hungry, and I'm tired. I just feel like I am falling apart.
I keep asking myself why I have to go through this. Why is God allowing me to deal with such a tough situation? I'm trying so hard to stay positive, but sometimes I just can't do it. Sometimes I just don't feel like there is any hope. Sometimes I just feel so alone.
I know that I am not alone though. I know that God is with me no matter what. I know that He walks with me every step of the way and when I cannot walk on my own, He carries me through. I have to remember that as I am feeling like there is no hope, as I am feeling as if the pain will never go away, as I am feeling like I will never get sleep. At times, it is very tough to remember, but something always triggers the thought. Honestly, I could not go through this all by myself. I don't know how people who don't believe or have faith go about this alone!
Please pray for me! Thank you so much!
I made it to school today. I was tired and just pretty much out of it. I felt the effects of the chemo coming on about 2pm. I started taking tylenol to try to offset the bone pain and took a nap when I got home from school.
I feel like it is going to be a very long weekend because I am pretty uncomfortable already. My lower back hurts, my head hurts, my neck hurts, I'm not hungry, and I'm tired. I just feel like I am falling apart.
I keep asking myself why I have to go through this. Why is God allowing me to deal with such a tough situation? I'm trying so hard to stay positive, but sometimes I just can't do it. Sometimes I just don't feel like there is any hope. Sometimes I just feel so alone.
I know that I am not alone though. I know that God is with me no matter what. I know that He walks with me every step of the way and when I cannot walk on my own, He carries me through. I have to remember that as I am feeling like there is no hope, as I am feeling as if the pain will never go away, as I am feeling like I will never get sleep. At times, it is very tough to remember, but something always triggers the thought. Honestly, I could not go through this all by myself. I don't know how people who don't believe or have faith go about this alone!
Please pray for me! Thank you so much!
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Tired
I am so tired this afternoon.
Mike was able to pull off a surprise birthday party for me last night. We didn't rock into the wee hours of the morning, but it went pretty late...later than I have been staying up. Then my sister, Mandy, slept over at my house, so we talked for awhile. Maybe that is why I am tired.
Or maybe it is just the busyness of the last couple of days catching up with me. Who knows...
I have enjoyed my week off from school and unfortunately, tomorrow is back to reality. It isn't too bad though because I have a student teacher who is in full control of all my classes.
This week off from chemo has been a blessing. My body has had a little chance to get back to "normal." I am a bit bloated, but I still have my hair. I'll take the bloat in exchange for the hair any day! I start cycle number two Wednesday. It will be the same as the past cycle...once a week on Wednesdays, for three weeks. During my week off I will have a CT scan and doctor exam. The CT scan should show if the tumors are shrinking, growing, or staying the same size. Let's pray that the chemo is working and they are shrinking...that is the goal.
Enjoy the rest of this sunny Sunday afternoon.
Mike was able to pull off a surprise birthday party for me last night. We didn't rock into the wee hours of the morning, but it went pretty late...later than I have been staying up. Then my sister, Mandy, slept over at my house, so we talked for awhile. Maybe that is why I am tired.
Or maybe it is just the busyness of the last couple of days catching up with me. Who knows...
I have enjoyed my week off from school and unfortunately, tomorrow is back to reality. It isn't too bad though because I have a student teacher who is in full control of all my classes.
This week off from chemo has been a blessing. My body has had a little chance to get back to "normal." I am a bit bloated, but I still have my hair. I'll take the bloat in exchange for the hair any day! I start cycle number two Wednesday. It will be the same as the past cycle...once a week on Wednesdays, for three weeks. During my week off I will have a CT scan and doctor exam. The CT scan should show if the tumors are shrinking, growing, or staying the same size. Let's pray that the chemo is working and they are shrinking...that is the goal.
Enjoy the rest of this sunny Sunday afternoon.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
April 5
Today is my 30th birthday. It is hard to believe that I am not in my 20's anymore. I have always felt like the 30's were so far away, and look at me now...here I am...30. Weird!
I honestly feel blessed to be turning 30...with the year that I have just gone through. God has blessed me, even though I have had many trials this past year. People say "what doesn't kill you, just makes you stronger." I truly believe that saying. I feel like I am a much stronger person now, than I was a year ago. All the trials and tribulations that I have experienced have shaped who I am today, have helped me grow closer to my heavenly Father, and have helped me to put into perspective what is important in life.
When I was awakened today by Mike wishing me a happy birthday, the sun was shining brightly. I knew that it was going to be a great day! And so far, it really has! I am feeling good. I still have my hair. Mike is taking me out for a nice dinner. Then, hopefully, I will get to spend some time with my family and friends. Life doesn't get any better than that!
I love you all! Thank you for all your prayers and support over the last year!
I honestly feel blessed to be turning 30...with the year that I have just gone through. God has blessed me, even though I have had many trials this past year. People say "what doesn't kill you, just makes you stronger." I truly believe that saying. I feel like I am a much stronger person now, than I was a year ago. All the trials and tribulations that I have experienced have shaped who I am today, have helped me grow closer to my heavenly Father, and have helped me to put into perspective what is important in life.
When I was awakened today by Mike wishing me a happy birthday, the sun was shining brightly. I knew that it was going to be a great day! And so far, it really has! I am feeling good. I still have my hair. Mike is taking me out for a nice dinner. Then, hopefully, I will get to spend some time with my family and friends. Life doesn't get any better than that!
I love you all! Thank you for all your prayers and support over the last year!
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Tuesday Night
Sorry if I made you guys nervous with my blog from last night. I'm much better tonight.
Last night was a rough one, one of the roughest I have had in quite a while. I've already been repremanded by a couple of people because I didn't call anybody. But, here's the deal, when it's the middle of the night, I don't want to wake anybody else up just because I can't sleep.
I have felt much better today. I woke up this morning with no nagging back pain. I did have a slight temperature this afternoon, but I think it has broken because I have not had one all evening. Overall, it was a pretty good day. Not really how I want to be spending my spring break, but at least I don't have to take days off of school.
I think that it has just taken a little longer for the side effects to take effect after this round of chemo. I hope this is not a trend.
Thank you for all your prayers...please keep them coming.
Last night was a rough one, one of the roughest I have had in quite a while. I've already been repremanded by a couple of people because I didn't call anybody. But, here's the deal, when it's the middle of the night, I don't want to wake anybody else up just because I can't sleep.
I have felt much better today. I woke up this morning with no nagging back pain. I did have a slight temperature this afternoon, but I think it has broken because I have not had one all evening. Overall, it was a pretty good day. Not really how I want to be spending my spring break, but at least I don't have to take days off of school.
I think that it has just taken a little longer for the side effects to take effect after this round of chemo. I hope this is not a trend.
Thank you for all your prayers...please keep them coming.
Happy Birthday
Today is Jennifer's 21st birthday! It is quite a milestone in her life! I wish her nothing but continued success and love! Happy birthday Jen!
Middle of the night
Ok, so it's 3am on Tuesday morning. I cannot sleep. I have taken just about every drug that is supposed to help relax and knock me out, but as you can see...they aren't working.
I had some majorly annoying lower back pain yesterday (and still). I couldn't get comfortable while laying in bed. I think that had a lot to do with it. I also had a minor fever which started to break, thus I was a sweat machine.
It has been a LONG LONG night. I guess it is a good thing that I don't have to get up for anything in the morning. Thank God for spring break!
Well, I am going to try to get some sleep. Until next time....
I had some majorly annoying lower back pain yesterday (and still). I couldn't get comfortable while laying in bed. I think that had a lot to do with it. I also had a minor fever which started to break, thus I was a sweat machine.
It has been a LONG LONG night. I guess it is a good thing that I don't have to get up for anything in the morning. Thank God for spring break!
Well, I am going to try to get some sleep. Until next time....
Saturday, March 29, 2008
First Day of Spring Break
Today is officially the first day of my spring break. It is a well needed break. Althought I spent much time off of school this past week, due to a pesky little fever, it was a busy week.
I have no plans for the week, other than to relax and get things cleaned and organized around the house. It is hard to keep up with laundry and cleaning when I am so tired from my chemo.
Speaking of chemo...this week's round wasn't too bad. I haven't had any back/neck pain again and the extreme tiredness hasn't hit me yet. This week is my off week, so I am looking forward to not having any chemo on Wednesday. I do have to go to see Dr. Sharma this week for an exam and blood test. That is a standard thing...there are always exams and blood tests before the start of a round of chemo.
The sun is shining brightly this morning, but it looks awful chilly outside. I think I am going to bundle up and take myself for a walk.
Have a wonderful day!
I have no plans for the week, other than to relax and get things cleaned and organized around the house. It is hard to keep up with laundry and cleaning when I am so tired from my chemo.
Speaking of chemo...this week's round wasn't too bad. I haven't had any back/neck pain again and the extreme tiredness hasn't hit me yet. This week is my off week, so I am looking forward to not having any chemo on Wednesday. I do have to go to see Dr. Sharma this week for an exam and blood test. That is a standard thing...there are always exams and blood tests before the start of a round of chemo.
The sun is shining brightly this morning, but it looks awful chilly outside. I think I am going to bundle up and take myself for a walk.
Have a wonderful day!
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Joan and Jerry
I had my third session of chemo today after I was released from my two night stay at the hospital. Monday night my fever rose to 102 and Dr. Sharma told me I had to go to the emergency room so I could be admitted. He was worried that I had an infection somewhere in my body.
After taking blood and running many tests, no infection was found, but I started an antibiotic, just to be safe. I thought that I would only have to stay Monday night and would be released Tuesday morning, but I was wrong. Dr. Sharma wanted to keep me there for 24 hours without a fever. I was disappointed but understood his point.
This visit was kind of awkward at first...in the past I have had a private room on 5 North, but Monday night the 5th floor was full so I was sent to 2 North. I didn't realize, until I was brought up there, that I would be sharing a room. My initial thoughts were: "ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! I HAVE A ROOMMATE!? THIS SUCKS!!"
The transport guy from the ER brought me to my room at about 1:15am and my roommate was sleeping, so I didn't get to meet her right away. At about 4am she called the nurse and I got up to use the bathroom. We had a short conversation and went back to sleep. At that point I was thinking that she was very nice and this might not be so bad. In the morning, we talked more and my fondness for her grew and grew.
Her name is Joan and she was there because she was having some difficulty breathing. We had many, many conversations over the last day and a half and she has found a special place in my heart. She is such a sweet woman and her husband is just as wonderful. They will be married for 55 years this May. What an accomplishment!!
We were both scheduled to be discharged today, and I was released first. She shed a few tears when I left because we had such a good time together. I only can hope and pray that she went home as well. She had been there since Thursday and was SOOOO excited to be told she was going home today. It made me smile to see her so happy.
It is amazing how God works. At first, I was so disappointed to have to share a tiny hospital room with a stranger, but it turned out to be a very wonderful experience! Even though Joan had been there for days, and some of them were quite rough, she had nothing but positive things to say and always had a smile on her face. She was very open and honest with me (and my family) about her life. God blessed me by putting me in Joan's room and allowing me to get to know her and Jerry. Please keep them in your prayers!
After taking blood and running many tests, no infection was found, but I started an antibiotic, just to be safe. I thought that I would only have to stay Monday night and would be released Tuesday morning, but I was wrong. Dr. Sharma wanted to keep me there for 24 hours without a fever. I was disappointed but understood his point.
This visit was kind of awkward at first...in the past I have had a private room on 5 North, but Monday night the 5th floor was full so I was sent to 2 North. I didn't realize, until I was brought up there, that I would be sharing a room. My initial thoughts were: "ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! I HAVE A ROOMMATE!? THIS SUCKS!!"
The transport guy from the ER brought me to my room at about 1:15am and my roommate was sleeping, so I didn't get to meet her right away. At about 4am she called the nurse and I got up to use the bathroom. We had a short conversation and went back to sleep. At that point I was thinking that she was very nice and this might not be so bad. In the morning, we talked more and my fondness for her grew and grew.
Her name is Joan and she was there because she was having some difficulty breathing. We had many, many conversations over the last day and a half and she has found a special place in my heart. She is such a sweet woman and her husband is just as wonderful. They will be married for 55 years this May. What an accomplishment!!
We were both scheduled to be discharged today, and I was released first. She shed a few tears when I left because we had such a good time together. I only can hope and pray that she went home as well. She had been there since Thursday and was SOOOO excited to be told she was going home today. It made me smile to see her so happy.
It is amazing how God works. At first, I was so disappointed to have to share a tiny hospital room with a stranger, but it turned out to be a very wonderful experience! Even though Joan had been there for days, and some of them were quite rough, she had nothing but positive things to say and always had a smile on her face. She was very open and honest with me (and my family) about her life. God blessed me by putting me in Joan's room and allowing me to get to know her and Jerry. Please keep them in your prayers!
Monday, March 24, 2008
Monday
I went to school this morning feeling fine. Unfortunately, I was sent home at 2:00 because I had a fever. It seems like the pattern for this chemo is that I get a minor fever on Monday afternoons. It frustrates me because other than the fever I feel fine. Weird. I guess my health is more important than being at school anyways...it just irritates me. Being at school keeps me sane and healthy emotionally. Now I am just relaxing at home, praying that the fever breaks so I can go to school tomorrow.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Easter
I cannot believe that Easter Sunday has come and gone. It was like a blur. I guess that is what happens when you sleep most of the afternoon away. I spent the day at my Dad's with my siblings and dogs. I figured I could crash on the couch there and nobody would care.
This week of chemo was unbelievable. I had no back/neck pain, just extreme tiredness. I was even able to run a handful of errands yesterday morning. What a blessing! I am so thankful to God for that! Hopefully they are all like this week!
Wednesday when I was at chemo I had Mike take a couple of pictures so you guys can have a little glimpse of what I do while I sit there for a couple of hours.
Sometimes I sit and chat with whoever is with me.
Other times the drugs make me sleepy so I nap.
Regardless of what I choose to do on each visit, I alway sit in the same chair in the corner of the room. I always bring my own blanket - a prayer shawl. A woman at my Dad's church made it for me at the beginning of the summer, and it comes with me every time. It is getting pretty beat up, but I still feel it working and it is so comforting to have with me.
This week of chemo was unbelievable. I had no back/neck pain, just extreme tiredness. I was even able to run a handful of errands yesterday morning. What a blessing! I am so thankful to God for that! Hopefully they are all like this week!
Wednesday when I was at chemo I had Mike take a couple of pictures so you guys can have a little glimpse of what I do while I sit there for a couple of hours.
Sometimes I sit and chat with whoever is with me.
Other times the drugs make me sleepy so I nap.Regardless of what I choose to do on each visit, I alway sit in the same chair in the corner of the room. I always bring my own blanket - a prayer shawl. A woman at my Dad's church made it for me at the beginning of the summer, and it comes with me every time. It is getting pretty beat up, but I still feel it working and it is so comforting to have with me.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Chemo Week Two Under My Belt
I just finished my second chemo treatment this afternoon. I had a blood test to make sure all my counts were high enough to get treatment, and they were.
My white blood cells were actually higher than last week. The nurse thinks there might be (or was) a minor infection somewhere in my body that is trying to be fought off. So, she warned me to be catious of fevers higher than 101, and let me know that I need to call her if that happens. High white blood cell counts to me mean that I can go to school!!
My red blood cells and hemoglobin were a little low so I needed a procrit shot in my arm to help boost those up. Believe me, I have not missed that shot one bit! It hurts like you wouldn't believe!!
My platelets were also up a little bit from last week. Overall, I would say that things are going really well so far!
The whole chemo process, including pre-meds and chemo, took about an hour and a half from start to finish. It isn't a bad afternoon at all. I don't mind going there and chatting. I had Mike take a couple of pictures of me in my corner chair. I will try and post them later so you can see what it looks like when I get chemo.
Thanks for your continued prayer and support!
Smooches!
My white blood cells were actually higher than last week. The nurse thinks there might be (or was) a minor infection somewhere in my body that is trying to be fought off. So, she warned me to be catious of fevers higher than 101, and let me know that I need to call her if that happens. High white blood cell counts to me mean that I can go to school!!
My red blood cells and hemoglobin were a little low so I needed a procrit shot in my arm to help boost those up. Believe me, I have not missed that shot one bit! It hurts like you wouldn't believe!!
My platelets were also up a little bit from last week. Overall, I would say that things are going really well so far!
The whole chemo process, including pre-meds and chemo, took about an hour and a half from start to finish. It isn't a bad afternoon at all. I don't mind going there and chatting. I had Mike take a couple of pictures of me in my corner chair. I will try and post them later so you can see what it looks like when I get chemo.
Thanks for your continued prayer and support!
Smooches!
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Chemo Week Two
Tomorrow I have to go for my second treatment of chemo. I'm not going to say that I am looking forward to it, but honestly this past week hasn't been too bad. Friday night and Saturday were a little rough, but if that is the worst of it...NO PROBLEM!! I can deal with a stretch of major bone pain and extreme tiredness because I didn't have any nausea and I've been able to go to school everyday. What a blessing!
From my previous chemo experience I know that the side effects usually get a little worse each treatment, so I am expecting them to this week. I am praying that they don't, but the realist in me says they probably will.
Let's just get on with it and deal with things as they come!! I am a fighter and not too much phases me anymore. God gives me what he knows I can handle and will make me stronger.
Please keep me in your prayers as I venture in to this next few days...
Thank you!!
From my previous chemo experience I know that the side effects usually get a little worse each treatment, so I am expecting them to this week. I am praying that they don't, but the realist in me says they probably will.
Let's just get on with it and deal with things as they come!! I am a fighter and not too much phases me anymore. God gives me what he knows I can handle and will make me stronger.
Please keep me in your prayers as I venture in to this next few days...
Thank you!!
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Palm Sunday
Today is Palm Sunday. Unfortunately, I didn't get to church this morning. I thought it would be best to just lay low for one more day.
I am feeling MUCH better! I slept most of the night last night and don't have much pain this morning. God is awesome! He listens to the prayers of his believers!
So the significance of Palm Sunday is that Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a colt, while people laid their cloaks and branches on the road for him to pass over. The whole time they were saying, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David! Hosanna in the highest heaven!"
People of Jesus' time knew there was something significant about him. They knew he was different from everybody else, but they didn't fully understand how he could be a king to save us all. It is a challenging concept to fully grasp.
In a couple of days it is going to be Good Friday. It seems almost like an oximoron to call the day that Jesus was crusified "good," but it really was a good day. He took my place. He took your place. He took the place of all those who believe! What a good day! Focus on his life as a sacrifice, so that we may spend eternity in heaven!
I am feeling MUCH better! I slept most of the night last night and don't have much pain this morning. God is awesome! He listens to the prayers of his believers!
So the significance of Palm Sunday is that Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a colt, while people laid their cloaks and branches on the road for him to pass over. The whole time they were saying, "Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Blessed is the coming kingdom of our father David! Hosanna in the highest heaven!"
People of Jesus' time knew there was something significant about him. They knew he was different from everybody else, but they didn't fully understand how he could be a king to save us all. It is a challenging concept to fully grasp.
In a couple of days it is going to be Good Friday. It seems almost like an oximoron to call the day that Jesus was crusified "good," but it really was a good day. He took my place. He took your place. He took the place of all those who believe! What a good day! Focus on his life as a sacrifice, so that we may spend eternity in heaven!
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Feeling a little bit better
I was able to get some sleep last night. I ended up taking a hot shower, which felt really good on my back and neck. I just had TERRIBLE bone pain...way worse than any bone pain I felt from those shots I used to get.
I have been sleeping off and on all day. Mike just picked me up, so I am over at his house now. My back and neck are still pretty sore, but not nearly like last night. I actually haven't taken anything to eleviate the pain. I am stubborn and I am trying to make it until bedtime. I don't like taking drugs.
Chemo side effects never cease to amaze me. I just hope this doesn't get any worse than it was last night!
God heard me while I was crying out to Him and I was able to sleep! Praise him!
Thank you for your prayers! Enjoy your weekend!
I have been sleeping off and on all day. Mike just picked me up, so I am over at his house now. My back and neck are still pretty sore, but not nearly like last night. I actually haven't taken anything to eleviate the pain. I am stubborn and I am trying to make it until bedtime. I don't like taking drugs.
Chemo side effects never cease to amaze me. I just hope this doesn't get any worse than it was last night!
God heard me while I was crying out to Him and I was able to sleep! Praise him!
Thank you for your prayers! Enjoy your weekend!
Pain
I can't sleep. I have TERRIBLE bone pain. It is a ligitamate side effect of the chemo, but it is BAD! Vicodin doesn't help eleviate the pain. Ativan doesn't help relax or put me to sleep. I can't get comfortable.
I have been crying out to God, asking him to comfort me. Asking him to take away just a smidge of this pain so I can get a little sleep. As you can see, I am still awake.
I'm going to try a warm shower, maybe that will help...
I have been crying out to God, asking him to comfort me. Asking him to take away just a smidge of this pain so I can get a little sleep. As you can see, I am still awake.
I'm going to try a warm shower, maybe that will help...
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Day Two
I feel good today! I was able to teach all day.
Tiredness is starting to set in, but I'm not sure if it is because tomorrow is Friday, or because this has been a crazy week, or if it is a side effect of the chemo.
I am just going to sit and relax tonight, go to bed early, and see what tomorrow brings.
Tiredness is starting to set in, but I'm not sure if it is because tomorrow is Friday, or because this has been a crazy week, or if it is a side effect of the chemo.
I am just going to sit and relax tonight, go to bed early, and see what tomorrow brings.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
New Picture
This picture is from Blizzard Beach at Disney World. Mike and I took his two youngest children there over Christmas break. The weather was HOT HOT HOT! We had a really good time!
Treatment One is Done
Good news! I survived treatment number one. I knew that it wouldn't be too bad. Now I just wait it out to see what the side effects will be. Most likely I will just be tired and loose my hair. My white blood cells will probably drop a little bit, but hopefully not like they did last time! Pray that they are up high enough so I don't have to stay home from school.
I have been taking a steroid twice a day starting yesterday. It has really effected me. I was Miss Motor-Mouth today. Mike was laughing at me today because I was talking his ears off. I finally slowed down a little bit after I got some benedryl at the doctor's office. It didn't put me to sleep, which is what it usually does.
There has been a little change in how these treatments are going to run. I am going to have three weeks of chemo and then a week off. Then start a second round of three weeks on and one week off. Most likely after that second batch I will go for a CT scan to make sure that the chemo is shrinking the tumors. The nurse said, assuming that the tumors shrink, I will just keep getting the chemo until they are non-existant. Then I will stop and see what happens.
Please pray that this chemo works and that the negative side effects are minimal. Thank you!
More to come later in the week...I am going to take the dogs for a walk and enjoy the warmer weather!
With love, Sheri
I have been taking a steroid twice a day starting yesterday. It has really effected me. I was Miss Motor-Mouth today. Mike was laughing at me today because I was talking his ears off. I finally slowed down a little bit after I got some benedryl at the doctor's office. It didn't put me to sleep, which is what it usually does.
There has been a little change in how these treatments are going to run. I am going to have three weeks of chemo and then a week off. Then start a second round of three weeks on and one week off. Most likely after that second batch I will go for a CT scan to make sure that the chemo is shrinking the tumors. The nurse said, assuming that the tumors shrink, I will just keep getting the chemo until they are non-existant. Then I will stop and see what happens.
Please pray that this chemo works and that the negative side effects are minimal. Thank you!
More to come later in the week...I am going to take the dogs for a walk and enjoy the warmer weather!
With love, Sheri
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
The Night Before...
I start my weekly chemo session tomorrow. I am becoming a little nervous. Not so much for the actual chemo session, but for the side effects. It is hard to think about all the effects that I had the last time and not be scared that they will happen again. Dr. Sharma and Peg (the head nurse) assure me that it shouldn't be nearly as bad as it was in the summer/fall, but I cannot help being unsure. I am constantly praying that they aren't as bad, and I know that even if they are, I can handle them.
The thing that upsets me the most about having to start chemo again is the possibility of not being able to teach. Teaching 7th grade math is my life. It is my passion and I LOVE doing it. I just feel like if I can't do it, what do I have? I know that I should not even be worrying about this right now. It is all in God's hands. He is in complete control of my life. I am staying positive and keeping my chin up. Whatever is supposed to happen will happen.
I stumbled upon a verse in Mark 5 this week that has stayed with me. But let me give you a little background on the chapter first...Jesus is talking to a crowd of people and a sick woman has just touched his clothes. Instantly she was healed. Jesus stopped speaking and asked the crowd who touched him because he had felt some power go out of him. Eventually the woman fell at Jesus' feet and admitted that she had done it. Jesus then said to her that because of her faith she was healed.
The next thing that happens is that Jesus overhears a group of people tell a a synagogue leader that his daughter has just died. He turns to him and says, "don't be afraid; just believe." He then follows the man to his home and tells him that his daughter is just asleep. Jesus goes into her room and tells her to get up. She got up and walked around!! He raised her from the dead!!
Wouldn't it be so amazing not only to be in the same room listening to Jesus speak, but to touch him and instantly be healed. Or to have him raise a family member/friend from the dead?! I can't imagine what it must have been like. Amazing!
So, the verse that struck me in this story is when Jesus told the synagogue leader "don't be afraid; just believe." I feel like he tells me that too. I believe that I am going to be healed. I believe that I am going to be able to keep teaching. I believe that I will live to see 80 years old.
The peace that has come over me has been tremendous....very powerful. Other than being a little nervous about the side effects I am going to face in the weeks to come, I'm good. I am ready to start this battle and get the foreign beasts out of my body!
Please keep me in your prayers. Pray specifically that the side effects are minimal, my white blood cell counts stay up, and I am well enough to go to school.
Thanks...I will post again soon and let you know how things are going!!
The thing that upsets me the most about having to start chemo again is the possibility of not being able to teach. Teaching 7th grade math is my life. It is my passion and I LOVE doing it. I just feel like if I can't do it, what do I have? I know that I should not even be worrying about this right now. It is all in God's hands. He is in complete control of my life. I am staying positive and keeping my chin up. Whatever is supposed to happen will happen.
I stumbled upon a verse in Mark 5 this week that has stayed with me. But let me give you a little background on the chapter first...Jesus is talking to a crowd of people and a sick woman has just touched his clothes. Instantly she was healed. Jesus stopped speaking and asked the crowd who touched him because he had felt some power go out of him. Eventually the woman fell at Jesus' feet and admitted that she had done it. Jesus then said to her that because of her faith she was healed.
The next thing that happens is that Jesus overhears a group of people tell a a synagogue leader that his daughter has just died. He turns to him and says, "don't be afraid; just believe." He then follows the man to his home and tells him that his daughter is just asleep. Jesus goes into her room and tells her to get up. She got up and walked around!! He raised her from the dead!!
Wouldn't it be so amazing not only to be in the same room listening to Jesus speak, but to touch him and instantly be healed. Or to have him raise a family member/friend from the dead?! I can't imagine what it must have been like. Amazing!
So, the verse that struck me in this story is when Jesus told the synagogue leader "don't be afraid; just believe." I feel like he tells me that too. I believe that I am going to be healed. I believe that I am going to be able to keep teaching. I believe that I will live to see 80 years old.
The peace that has come over me has been tremendous....very powerful. Other than being a little nervous about the side effects I am going to face in the weeks to come, I'm good. I am ready to start this battle and get the foreign beasts out of my body!
Please keep me in your prayers. Pray specifically that the side effects are minimal, my white blood cell counts stay up, and I am well enough to go to school.
Thanks...I will post again soon and let you know how things are going!!
Thursday, March 6, 2008
New Chemo to Start Next Week
I heard back from the doctor today as to what my treatments were going to consist of...at this point they don't sound too bad. (Can you believe that I am saying that about chemotherapy?!)
Anyways...I will have six weeks of treatment, with it being one day each week. The drug that I will be receiving is Taxotere. I have researched it a little bit; the side effects don't sound great, but compared to what the last drugs did, this will hopefully be a walk in the park...so to speak.
Right now the plan is to go for treatments on Wednesday afternoons. Hopefully I will still be able to go to school on the other days. I am praying that God allows me to stay strong enough to use a minimal amount of sick days. This first treatment is a test to see how it effects me and how I feel. If I need to adjust the day I receive my injection, the nurse told me I could change it the following week.
I have mixed feelings about starting this new chemotherapy. I am ready to start it because this nagging pain in my back is so annoying. But at the same time, I am nervous and a little scared. I remember what some of my treatments did to me during the summer and I don't want to face something like that again.
God is in control of my life, and I have to remember that when I start to feel nervous or afraid.
My cousin, Sarah, sends daily Bible verses through email and they really lift me up. One that she sent last week was sent with such perfect timing....Psalm 27:1 "The Lord is my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life - of whom shall I be afraid?"
I know that many people that I talk with think I am absolutely nuts for being able to be so positive or cheerful about my cancer. But, honestly, the only reason I can be like this is because of the fact that I am not alone. God is with me through every moment of this. He is in control of my life. He is the Great Physician. He is a miracle worker. Why should I be afraid? I don't have to fear what lies ahead of me. I am not facing it alone. I have all the confidence that He is going to take care of me.
Anyways...I will have six weeks of treatment, with it being one day each week. The drug that I will be receiving is Taxotere. I have researched it a little bit; the side effects don't sound great, but compared to what the last drugs did, this will hopefully be a walk in the park...so to speak.
Right now the plan is to go for treatments on Wednesday afternoons. Hopefully I will still be able to go to school on the other days. I am praying that God allows me to stay strong enough to use a minimal amount of sick days. This first treatment is a test to see how it effects me and how I feel. If I need to adjust the day I receive my injection, the nurse told me I could change it the following week.
I have mixed feelings about starting this new chemotherapy. I am ready to start it because this nagging pain in my back is so annoying. But at the same time, I am nervous and a little scared. I remember what some of my treatments did to me during the summer and I don't want to face something like that again.
God is in control of my life, and I have to remember that when I start to feel nervous or afraid.
My cousin, Sarah, sends daily Bible verses through email and they really lift me up. One that she sent last week was sent with such perfect timing....Psalm 27:1 "The Lord is my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life - of whom shall I be afraid?"
I know that many people that I talk with think I am absolutely nuts for being able to be so positive or cheerful about my cancer. But, honestly, the only reason I can be like this is because of the fact that I am not alone. God is with me through every moment of this. He is in control of my life. He is the Great Physician. He is a miracle worker. Why should I be afraid? I don't have to fear what lies ahead of me. I am not facing it alone. I have all the confidence that He is going to take care of me.
Monday, March 3, 2008
Praise God!
I know that there is this foreign beast in my body and at times it freaks me out. It is almost as if my body doesn't belong to me. It is weird.
It seems like each day I wake up with a new ache or pain somewhere. Fortunately, at this point they are not bad enough to keep me from living. Praise God for that!
Last Thursday, went I went to see Dr. Sharma, he said that he would call Monday or Tuesday to talk about treatment options. The time has passed so slowly since I have seen him. I feel like I have been walking around in a daze. Various thoughts have gone through my head..."this can't be happening to me." "I'm gonna wake up and find that it was all a bad dream." Unfortunately, that isn't going to happen. This is real, and it is happening to me...again.
Yesterday morning I woke up with an incredible peace surrounding me. As I started to tell you yesterday, my devotions were about praising God. I reread them again today because they struck me as being so powerful and true. The author states, that "as your praises go up, God's blessings come down. Praise actually helps to heal your emotions and lift the weight of negativity you're living under."
There is so much in my life that I can praise God for, I would be sitting here forever if I tried to write it all down. I'm going to list a few of the major things...
That God sent his only son, to die on the cross, that I might be saved from spending eternity in hell. As Easter approaches in a couple weeks, I am reminded that Jesus gave his life for me. He was beaten and killed so that I may live forever in heaven. He didn't have to give his life, he even asked God "may this cup be taken from me." (Matthew 26:39) Isn't that amazing?! Jesus, the son of God, gave his life for sinners like me!
My family and friends who continue to love and support me. The people I am closest to have helped me through a difficult moment, hour, or day. I would not be as strong as I am without those who are surrounding me with their love and prayers. Sometimes all it takes is a phone call or a note in the mail or email. Even if I don't respond or answer the call, I am thankful that it came. Thank you!
I praise God for each day that I am able to get out of bed. I believe that each day is a gift from God and he could take them away from us at any moment, so we need to treat each day like it is the last we might be given. It doesn't matter to me if the sun is shining bright, like it was yesterday, or it is dreary and rainy, like it is today. I am thankful for every day that God gives me. I am so thankful that I am able to drive to work, to teach my students, to spend time with Mike, and to talk to my family and friends.
Those are just a few of the many, many things that I praise God for. Life is a gift. Enjoy!
Psalm 100:
"Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made up, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations."
It seems like each day I wake up with a new ache or pain somewhere. Fortunately, at this point they are not bad enough to keep me from living. Praise God for that!
Last Thursday, went I went to see Dr. Sharma, he said that he would call Monday or Tuesday to talk about treatment options. The time has passed so slowly since I have seen him. I feel like I have been walking around in a daze. Various thoughts have gone through my head..."this can't be happening to me." "I'm gonna wake up and find that it was all a bad dream." Unfortunately, that isn't going to happen. This is real, and it is happening to me...again.
Yesterday morning I woke up with an incredible peace surrounding me. As I started to tell you yesterday, my devotions were about praising God. I reread them again today because they struck me as being so powerful and true. The author states, that "as your praises go up, God's blessings come down. Praise actually helps to heal your emotions and lift the weight of negativity you're living under."
There is so much in my life that I can praise God for, I would be sitting here forever if I tried to write it all down. I'm going to list a few of the major things...
That God sent his only son, to die on the cross, that I might be saved from spending eternity in hell. As Easter approaches in a couple weeks, I am reminded that Jesus gave his life for me. He was beaten and killed so that I may live forever in heaven. He didn't have to give his life, he even asked God "may this cup be taken from me." (Matthew 26:39) Isn't that amazing?! Jesus, the son of God, gave his life for sinners like me!
My family and friends who continue to love and support me. The people I am closest to have helped me through a difficult moment, hour, or day. I would not be as strong as I am without those who are surrounding me with their love and prayers. Sometimes all it takes is a phone call or a note in the mail or email. Even if I don't respond or answer the call, I am thankful that it came. Thank you!
I praise God for each day that I am able to get out of bed. I believe that each day is a gift from God and he could take them away from us at any moment, so we need to treat each day like it is the last we might be given. It doesn't matter to me if the sun is shining bright, like it was yesterday, or it is dreary and rainy, like it is today. I am thankful for every day that God gives me. I am so thankful that I am able to drive to work, to teach my students, to spend time with Mike, and to talk to my family and friends.
Those are just a few of the many, many things that I praise God for. Life is a gift. Enjoy!
Psalm 100:
"Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made up, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations."
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Sunday morning
It is an absolutely beautiful Sunday morning, here in the Chicagoland area. The sun is shining brightly off the snow that still remains on the ground.
I am determined to fight this nasty beast that lives inside me. I know that I am not alone in this fight, there are so many that surround me with their love and support. But most importantly, our Heavenly Father is holding me in the palm of his hand. I know that through him I can do ALL things, even kick cancer for a second time!!
More later...as Mike is urging me to finish up so we can go to church...
I am determined to fight this nasty beast that lives inside me. I know that I am not alone in this fight, there are so many that surround me with their love and support. But most importantly, our Heavenly Father is holding me in the palm of his hand. I know that through him I can do ALL things, even kick cancer for a second time!!
More later...as Mike is urging me to finish up so we can go to church...
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Change in attitude
My devotions this morning were about praising the Lord. The author stated that it is so easy to give God praise when things are going well in our lives. But, when we face difficulties, it is much much harder to keep a praise-filled attitude.
I am finding that to be so true. I have to try my hardest to stay filled with praise. God gave me four months of cancer free life to do many things. I have to dwell on those times.
I have to be reminded that our God is an all powerful and amazing God. He cares for me and is with me no matter what I am going through.
Satan is so tricky in how he gets in to my mind and puts horrible thoughts there. Once they start, it is hard to shut them out. When I feel them coming, I need to pray or run to God's word. That is what I just did and I am feeling much better.
Psalm 106:1 "Praise the Lord. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever."
Please keep me in your prayers.
I am finding that to be so true. I have to try my hardest to stay filled with praise. God gave me four months of cancer free life to do many things. I have to dwell on those times.
I have to be reminded that our God is an all powerful and amazing God. He cares for me and is with me no matter what I am going through.
Satan is so tricky in how he gets in to my mind and puts horrible thoughts there. Once they start, it is hard to shut them out. When I feel them coming, I need to pray or run to God's word. That is what I just did and I am feeling much better.
Psalm 106:1 "Praise the Lord. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever."
Please keep me in your prayers.
Thoughts
I'm finding it very hard to stay positive this time. Thoughts that are formed as "what if..." keep running through my head.
I know that I need to take things one day at a time, but it is hard. Last time, I had all hope and confidence that I would be healed. This time, I don't. I just don't feel right.
I am finding it hard to draw up the fight. What's the point?
I know that God has a plan for my life. But, it doesn't seem to be anywhere close to what I had hoped it would be.
I have lots of plans for the summer, and I don't think I will get to do any of them.
I am scared.
I am mad.
I am discouraged.
I am not as strong as you all think I am.
I know that God is with me, but I just don't feel his presence right now.
As hard as I have prayed to be cancer free, he didn't answer my prayer. Why??!!? Why do I have to go through this all again?
I know that I need to take things one day at a time, but it is hard. Last time, I had all hope and confidence that I would be healed. This time, I don't. I just don't feel right.
I am finding it hard to draw up the fight. What's the point?
I know that God has a plan for my life. But, it doesn't seem to be anywhere close to what I had hoped it would be.
I have lots of plans for the summer, and I don't think I will get to do any of them.
I am scared.
I am mad.
I am discouraged.
I am not as strong as you all think I am.
I know that God is with me, but I just don't feel his presence right now.
As hard as I have prayed to be cancer free, he didn't answer my prayer. Why??!!? Why do I have to go through this all again?
Friday, February 29, 2008
Terrible News
My cancer is back.
I have a handful of masses scattered throughout the mid-section of my body. There is one pressing on my spleen and an other pushing on my liver. Thankfully though none of them are ON my organs.
Dr. Sharma will be doing some research this weekend to find the best course of treatment. Since my cancer is so rare there aren't many reports to go by, so he wanted to take a couple days to dive in to the liturature and make some calls to find what can be done. I should hear back from him Monday or Tuesday.
In my devotions this morning, I came upon this verse again. It is such a comfort to know that God is with me and has a plan for my life, even though it might not be the same plan that I wanted to have.
"The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave or forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:8
Please keep me in your prayers...thank you!
Sheri
I have a handful of masses scattered throughout the mid-section of my body. There is one pressing on my spleen and an other pushing on my liver. Thankfully though none of them are ON my organs.
Dr. Sharma will be doing some research this weekend to find the best course of treatment. Since my cancer is so rare there aren't many reports to go by, so he wanted to take a couple days to dive in to the liturature and make some calls to find what can be done. I should hear back from him Monday or Tuesday.
In my devotions this morning, I came upon this verse again. It is such a comfort to know that God is with me and has a plan for my life, even though it might not be the same plan that I wanted to have.
"The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave or forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:8
Please keep me in your prayers...thank you!
Sheri
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Why does cancer strike so young?
My friend from grade school, Deb, is married to Nate. They live in Michigan. Nate and Deb have twins, Landon and Morgan, who are three years old. Up until recently everything in their life was normal.
Nate was just diagnosed with stage IV melanoma cancer (liver). He is currently undergoing chemotherapy. His cancer is rare and his chemo is a trial. He has a very positive attitude and is optimistic. Nate is blessed enough to be able to be back at work. But he still needs our prayers. As we know, prayer is a powerful thing!
If you want to check him out, his blog is natesroadtorecovery.blogspot.com
Nate was just diagnosed with stage IV melanoma cancer (liver). He is currently undergoing chemotherapy. His cancer is rare and his chemo is a trial. He has a very positive attitude and is optimistic. Nate is blessed enough to be able to be back at work. But he still needs our prayers. As we know, prayer is a powerful thing!
If you want to check him out, his blog is natesroadtorecovery.blogspot.com
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
July 11, 2008
What will you be doing on that date?
Join TEAM VT in the Lemont-Homer Relay For Life.
We will be walking to help raise money for a cure for cancer.
Copy this link into your browser and check things out!
http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RelayForLifeIllinoisDivision/234931446?pg=team&fr_id=7908&team_id=217442
Join TEAM VT in the Lemont-Homer Relay For Life.
We will be walking to help raise money for a cure for cancer.
Copy this link into your browser and check things out!
http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RelayForLifeIllinoisDivision/234931446?pg=team&fr_id=7908&team_id=217442
Monday, February 4, 2008
February Already?!?
Where does the time go?! I cannot believe that it is already a handful of days into February! Time sure does fly by.
I would have to say it is good that it is February because that means winter is half over. I am definately ready for the spring to be here. My little tootsies are craving the sun.
We have had a ton of snow this winter. Thankfully though, most of it has fallen at night or on the weekends, allowing me to sit and watch it fall, or to wake up to a beautiful snow covered yard. As much as I don't like the snow, it truly is an amazing thing!
I don't really have much to say. Nothing new or interesting is going on in my life. It has been kinda boring, but I'll take it after the year I had last year.
School is going great. I love teaching middle school...especially math! One of the other teachers stopped me in the hall the other day and told me that somehow her class was discussing hair and my hair was part of the conversation. Now for all of you who haven't seen me in a while, my hair is still quite short, but it is at one of those akward stages where it isn't long enough for a trim, but it is getting a little scraggly. I just went to the store and bought a product to use because I was sick of it being so fluffy on top. Anyways, she informed me that her whole class thought that my hair was so cool and that it looked so good. That made me smile.
Middle school kids. Random. Very.
I would have to say it is good that it is February because that means winter is half over. I am definately ready for the spring to be here. My little tootsies are craving the sun.
We have had a ton of snow this winter. Thankfully though, most of it has fallen at night or on the weekends, allowing me to sit and watch it fall, or to wake up to a beautiful snow covered yard. As much as I don't like the snow, it truly is an amazing thing!
I don't really have much to say. Nothing new or interesting is going on in my life. It has been kinda boring, but I'll take it after the year I had last year.
School is going great. I love teaching middle school...especially math! One of the other teachers stopped me in the hall the other day and told me that somehow her class was discussing hair and my hair was part of the conversation. Now for all of you who haven't seen me in a while, my hair is still quite short, but it is at one of those akward stages where it isn't long enough for a trim, but it is getting a little scraggly. I just went to the store and bought a product to use because I was sick of it being so fluffy on top. Anyways, she informed me that her whole class thought that my hair was so cool and that it looked so good. That made me smile.
Middle school kids. Random. Very.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Results
Cancer free!!
As you can tell, my doctor's appointment resulted in GREAT news! I am still cancer free, and I don't need to go back to the doctor until the end of March!
Thank you for all your prayers!
As you can tell, my doctor's appointment resulted in GREAT news! I am still cancer free, and I don't need to go back to the doctor until the end of March!
Thank you for all your prayers!
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Nervous
A friend of mine, who I work with, said to me the other day that I am a miracle. I feel the exact same way!
The only thing I really remember from my first visit to Dr. Sharma's office after my surgery was him telling us, because I asked, that my prognosis was not good. My cancer was very rare and very aggressive. But, now seven and a half months later, I am feeling AWESOME! For almost three months I have lived a normal life. I have taught full time, tutored and coached mathletes, started to work out, and enjoyed every minute of life! How can that not be a miracle?!
Monday morning I go for my three month check up. Although I feel great, I am VERY nervous, and I have been for the last two weeks. I know that it is all in God's hands and believe me, I have prayed every day since June for a long, cancer free life.
But, I know that no matter what Dr. Sharma tells me Monday, I can handle it.
I am not alone! God is with me. He is going to walk with me through anything and everything. Psalm 73:23 says, "I still belong to you; you hold me by my right hand." My life has been planned out longer than I have been around. God has been faithful to me; he has never left my side. James 4:8 assures me that if I "draw close to God, and God will draw close to [me]."
Believing those things make it easier to face each day!
The only thing I really remember from my first visit to Dr. Sharma's office after my surgery was him telling us, because I asked, that my prognosis was not good. My cancer was very rare and very aggressive. But, now seven and a half months later, I am feeling AWESOME! For almost three months I have lived a normal life. I have taught full time, tutored and coached mathletes, started to work out, and enjoyed every minute of life! How can that not be a miracle?!
Monday morning I go for my three month check up. Although I feel great, I am VERY nervous, and I have been for the last two weeks. I know that it is all in God's hands and believe me, I have prayed every day since June for a long, cancer free life.
But, I know that no matter what Dr. Sharma tells me Monday, I can handle it.
I am not alone! God is with me. He is going to walk with me through anything and everything. Psalm 73:23 says, "I still belong to you; you hold me by my right hand." My life has been planned out longer than I have been around. God has been faithful to me; he has never left my side. James 4:8 assures me that if I "draw close to God, and God will draw close to [me]."
Believing those things make it easier to face each day!
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Winter Break
I cannot believe that it is January of 2008! The last year went by in a complete blur...
It has been nice to be off of school for a couple of weeks. I feel like I haven't had much time to relax though. The beginning of last week was filled with last minute Christmas present buying, preparing for holiday gatherings, and packing.
Christmas Eve was spent with my family coming over to my house dinner and gift exchanges. Then Christmas day Mike and I went over to my Dad's for our extended family gathering. Both gatherings were wonderful!
Wednesday morning, the day after Christmas, Mike and I packed up a 33 foot motorhome and took a road trip down to Disney World with two of his teenage kids and the two dogs. What an experience! It was a lot of fun...but believe me...a 33 foot motorhome is not large enough for 4 people and 2 dogs! It is nice to be home...we all feel that way!
Disney World was beautifully decorated for Christmas. There were lights, trees, poinsettias, and ornaments everywhere! The weather was so warm, in the mid-80's, that we spent one day at Blizzard Beach. It was really nice to be walking around in shorts and tank tops, but it felt kind of weird knowing that it was the end of December.
As far as my health goes...I am feeling great. I was walking on the treadmill this morning and decided that I wanted to try to run. I did it! I ran, well, I think it was actually a jog, but whatever...it was awesome! I don't think I have done that since last April or May. I am going to take it slow, but I want to try to get back to running a couple of miles every other day or so.
I haven't worn my wig in over a week. It is so nice to be without it. As you can see, my hair is still really short. People give me looks, but I just hold my head up and continue along doing my business. My students are going to be surprised when I go back to school next week!
"Therefore we do not loose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." ~2 Chorinthians 4: 16-18
I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas! May your lives be richly blessed during this new year!
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