Hey everyone,
I just thought I'd let you know that Laurie is doing great! She just returned from a two week business trip to Paris. I flew over too and we spent the weekend together. It was great!
She is involved in Girl Scouts and coaches Brooke's volleyball team.
I just thought I'd send an update with nothing but good news!
Thanks everyone for your thoughts and prayers over the past couple of years.
Forrest
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Happy New Year!
Well, just when we thought we had shared all of what we have learned with you, we learn some more! We’ll start with the good news. Laurie’s disability company contacted her in mid December, asking how her recuperation was going. They said that since they knew she was returning to work full time and would be focusing on building up her stamina, they would cover an annual health club membership for her. Therefore, she checked around and decided Worldgate offered the best for the money, and has already started attending their Water Aerobics and Yoga classes, showing off her new short “hairdo” since the club is not conducive to wigs!
The other thing that happened just last week was a halt in her biological treatment. She was due to have her every 3 week Herceptin treatment on Monday, but the oncologist (cancer doctor)’s office called and said that they were a little concerned with the numbers from the ECHO that she had on 18 Dec. Since the biggest side effect of Herceptin is to damage the heart, she has had an ECHO every 3 months starting in Dec 08. Apparently, the ejection fraction was at 55 in June, and then went up to 62 in Sept and is back to 55 in Dec. So, the doctor ordered a MUGA for New Year’s Eve morning and delayed the Herceptin infusion.
Let me step back and share with you what an ECHO is. An ECHO is an echocardiogram, often referred to as a cardiac ECHO or simply an ECHO. It is a sonogram of the heart and uses standard ultrasound techniques to image two-dimensional slices of the heart. An echocardiogram also assesses cardiac valve areas and function, and calculates the cardiac output as well as the ejection fraction. The ejection fraction (EF) is the fraction of blood pumped out of a ventricle with each heartbeat. The lower the EF the worse the heart function. A general breakdown of values is as follows: 40-50 % mild dysfunction; 25 - 39% moderate dysfunction; < class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">ECHOs are either performed by a cardiac sonographer or doctors trained in cardiology. A MUGA scan (Multi Gated Acquisition Scan) is a nuclear medicine test to evaluate the function of the heart ventricles. It is very much like the ECHO but since it is more “automated”, it is more accurate and is not dependent on the ability of the technician. When you have a MUGA, they put in an IV, draw blood, and then have you wait 15 min while they mix a radioactive marker in your blood. Then they return the blood to your body through the IV and takes the pictures of your heart function using a triangular X-Ray machine. I told Laurie she was “glowing” on New Year’s Eve!
So, at this point, we are waiting for the MUGA results to see what the next steps are. Apparently, if there is some damage, it normally heals itself, either with time or help with medicine. Once that happens the Herceptin treatments will continue as scheduled.
We pray for God's will to continue to be done in our lives and appreciate your prayers as well. We'll keep you updated! Once again, Happy New Year!
.
The other thing that happened just last week was a halt in her biological treatment. She was due to have her every 3 week Herceptin treatment on Monday, but the oncologist (cancer doctor)’s office called and said that they were a little concerned with the numbers from the ECHO that she had on 18 Dec. Since the biggest side effect of Herceptin is to damage the heart, she has had an ECHO every 3 months starting in Dec 08. Apparently, the ejection fraction was at 55 in June, and then went up to 62 in Sept and is back to 55 in Dec. So, the doctor ordered a MUGA for New Year’s Eve morning and delayed the Herceptin infusion.
Let me step back and share with you what an ECHO is. An ECHO is an echocardiogram, often referred to as a cardiac ECHO or simply an ECHO. It is a sonogram of the heart and uses standard ultrasound techniques to image two-dimensional slices of the heart. An echocardiogram also assesses cardiac valve areas and function, and calculates the cardiac output as well as the ejection fraction. The ejection fraction (EF) is the fraction of blood pumped out of a ventricle with each heartbeat. The lower the EF the worse the heart function. A general breakdown of values is as follows: 40-50 % mild dysfunction; 25 - 39% moderate dysfunction; < class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">ECHOs are either performed by a cardiac sonographer or doctors trained in cardiology. A MUGA scan (Multi Gated Acquisition Scan) is a nuclear medicine test to evaluate the function of the heart ventricles. It is very much like the ECHO but since it is more “automated”, it is more accurate and is not dependent on the ability of the technician. When you have a MUGA, they put in an IV, draw blood, and then have you wait 15 min while they mix a radioactive marker in your blood. Then they return the blood to your body through the IV and takes the pictures of your heart function using a triangular X-Ray machine. I told Laurie she was “glowing” on New Year’s Eve!
So, at this point, we are waiting for the MUGA results to see what the next steps are. Apparently, if there is some damage, it normally heals itself, either with time or help with medicine. Once that happens the Herceptin treatments will continue as scheduled.
We pray for God's will to continue to be done in our lives and appreciate your prayers as well. We'll keep you updated! Once again, Happy New Year!
.
Friday, December 4, 2009
Holiday Season Update
Wow, it is hard to believe that it has been 2 months since we last updated this blog. I’ve been getting a bit of grief from several people for not keeping this up to date. But since we have had nothing but positives I guess I was just sitting back and thanking God for all his blessings. I probably should have shared with you. Sorry!
Things have been getting back to normal, with Laurie transitioning back to full-time work during October and November. Thanksgiving this year was very different as she was not recovering from surgery or preparing for the unknown journey of chemo, radiation, etc. We had many things to be thankful for this year!
A question that was asked recently was “What is the point of reference when people talk about “1 year survivor” or “cancer free for 5 years”?”Laurie was surprised to realize that there is no right answer here! Many people use their date of diagnosis if they are talking about survivor time. However, if you use the term cancer free, most people use the period that all visible cancer is removed. In her case, the surgery removed the known cancer, and the PET Scan in December showed no other visible traces of cancer. All additional treatments were to make sure any microscopic cells of cancer that had escaped notice were destroyed, and to reduce the chance of recurrence through radiation and by building up antibodies (biological treatment, Herceptin). So, in that case, she has been cancer free for 1 year effective November 24th! She had the biopsy on Halloween last year, and that is when the diagnosis of breast cancer was confirmed, so if she used that date, it would be about a month earlier.
Laurie is currently working to finish up the notes on her radiation treatment and consolidate a summary of the side effects of all her treatments. We hope to have them posted by the end of this year, and then we will only update this site every 3 months, or so, when she has her ECHO tests or check-ups. Feel free to share this information with anyone that may wish to understand more of what the journey is like, and let them know they can feel free to contact us if they have specific questions. We would like to think we can make their experiences a little lighter by giving them more insights from our experiences.
We pray that you and your family will have a wonderful Christmas season, and a marvelous New Year!
.
Things have been getting back to normal, with Laurie transitioning back to full-time work during October and November. Thanksgiving this year was very different as she was not recovering from surgery or preparing for the unknown journey of chemo, radiation, etc. We had many things to be thankful for this year!
A question that was asked recently was “What is the point of reference when people talk about “1 year survivor” or “cancer free for 5 years”?”Laurie was surprised to realize that there is no right answer here! Many people use their date of diagnosis if they are talking about survivor time. However, if you use the term cancer free, most people use the period that all visible cancer is removed. In her case, the surgery removed the known cancer, and the PET Scan in December showed no other visible traces of cancer. All additional treatments were to make sure any microscopic cells of cancer that had escaped notice were destroyed, and to reduce the chance of recurrence through radiation and by building up antibodies (biological treatment, Herceptin). So, in that case, she has been cancer free for 1 year effective November 24th! She had the biopsy on Halloween last year, and that is when the diagnosis of breast cancer was confirmed, so if she used that date, it would be about a month earlier.
Laurie is currently working to finish up the notes on her radiation treatment and consolidate a summary of the side effects of all her treatments. We hope to have them posted by the end of this year, and then we will only update this site every 3 months, or so, when she has her ECHO tests or check-ups. Feel free to share this information with anyone that may wish to understand more of what the journey is like, and let them know they can feel free to contact us if they have specific questions. We would like to think we can make their experiences a little lighter by giving them more insights from our experiences.
We pray that you and your family will have a wonderful Christmas season, and a marvelous New Year!
.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Late breaking news!
Hey everyone,
This just in!
Another praise!
As we mentioned in our blog Aug 16th, Laurie had to get a nodule on her thyroid checked out (seen on PET scan in Dec). She was able to get an appt with Dr Rogacz within 5 weeks which is a miracle in itself (it is very hard to get quick appts with endocrinologists!). That appt was last week, which led to further appts for blood work (last Friday) and a needle biopsy (this past Tuesday). Both tests came back normal, so all is well. They are recommending a follow-up sonogram in 6 months (just like the GYN) but no further action at this time. This is really wonderful news!
God is so cool!
.
This just in!
Another praise!
As we mentioned in our blog Aug 16th, Laurie had to get a nodule on her thyroid checked out (seen on PET scan in Dec). She was able to get an appt with Dr Rogacz within 5 weeks which is a miracle in itself (it is very hard to get quick appts with endocrinologists!). That appt was last week, which led to further appts for blood work (last Friday) and a needle biopsy (this past Tuesday). Both tests came back normal, so all is well. They are recommending a follow-up sonogram in 6 months (just like the GYN) but no further action at this time. This is really wonderful news!
God is so cool!
.
Clinical Trial for Biophosphonates 9-25-09
Hey everyone,
The 3 year Clinical Trial that Laurie is participating in is designed to determine if adding a biophosphonate to hormonal therapy and/or chemotherapy will help prevent breast cancer from spreading to the bones or other parts of the body. About 4,500 women are taking part in this study. There are 3 different groups within the study, each being given a different type of biophosphonate for 3 years as note below. (there is no placebo in this study)
1. 4 mg infusion of zoledronic acid through a needle in the vein every 4 weeks for the first 6 months and then once every 3 months for the other 30 months
2. 1600 mg of clodronate by mouth (2 tablets) every day for 36 months
3. 50 mg of ibandronate by mouth once every day for 36 months (marketed as Boniva here in US, similar to Actonel)
Biophosphonates are a class of drugs that prevent the bone from breaking down. Low doses are used for osteoporosis here in the US and higher dosages are used for bone cancers (currently zoledronic). This clinical trial is using higher dosages. For example, someone taking Boniva for osteoporosis (you probably have seen Sally Fields in a TV ad on this) would take 2.5 mg daily or 150 monthly. As you see under #3 above, participants in this study take 50 mg daily. The purpose of the study is to see if biophosphonates should be added to the treatment regiment for breast cancer patients, and if so, which one of these works the best (best stats with least amount of side effects). Side effects from the 3 options vary but overall, side effects include nausea, vomiting, reflux and diarrhea. Uncommon, but serious side effects include the possibility of a specific type of damage to the jawbone (osteonecrosis of the jaw) and damage to an unborn child or a baby who is breastfeeding (not a concern for Laurie!). They will run routine blood tests every month for the first 6 months and then every 3 months thereafter. The blood tests will check normal levels as well as serum creatinine to ensure the kidneys are working properly.
For those medical folks out there, you know that bisphosphonates prevent the breakdown of bone by bone cells called osteoclasts. For the rest of us, Laurie’s dentist explained it a little easier to understand: “The bones are like roads. Before they are repaved, a layer is removed, and then a new layer of asphalt is added. Bones are similar. There are cells that are breaking down the bone, and then new cells are created. The biophosphonates decrease the activity of the cells that are “breaking down or removing” bone density and since the new cells are still being created, the bones become more dense and stronger.”
The medication she is taking is being used in Canada, the United Kingdom and Italy, where it is marketed as Bonefos, Loron and Clodron. Oral Bonefos is approved in 67 countries outside the United States largely for the treatment of tumor-induced osteolysis and hypercalcemia. So far, nearly 20 years of use and 300,000 patient-years of experience with Bonefos have been accumulated worldwide.
So, now you know a bit more about what and why Laurie is participating in this clinical trial. The bottom line is that she hopes to provide data that will one day lead to a cure for others that may experience what she has already gone through.
May God continue to bless you as He has so richly blessed our family!
.
The 3 year Clinical Trial that Laurie is participating in is designed to determine if adding a biophosphonate to hormonal therapy and/or chemotherapy will help prevent breast cancer from spreading to the bones or other parts of the body. About 4,500 women are taking part in this study. There are 3 different groups within the study, each being given a different type of biophosphonate for 3 years as note below. (there is no placebo in this study)
1. 4 mg infusion of zoledronic acid through a needle in the vein every 4 weeks for the first 6 months and then once every 3 months for the other 30 months
2. 1600 mg of clodronate by mouth (2 tablets) every day for 36 months
3. 50 mg of ibandronate by mouth once every day for 36 months (marketed as Boniva here in US, similar to Actonel)
Biophosphonates are a class of drugs that prevent the bone from breaking down. Low doses are used for osteoporosis here in the US and higher dosages are used for bone cancers (currently zoledronic). This clinical trial is using higher dosages. For example, someone taking Boniva for osteoporosis (you probably have seen Sally Fields in a TV ad on this) would take 2.5 mg daily or 150 monthly. As you see under #3 above, participants in this study take 50 mg daily. The purpose of the study is to see if biophosphonates should be added to the treatment regiment for breast cancer patients, and if so, which one of these works the best (best stats with least amount of side effects). Side effects from the 3 options vary but overall, side effects include nausea, vomiting, reflux and diarrhea. Uncommon, but serious side effects include the possibility of a specific type of damage to the jawbone (osteonecrosis of the jaw) and damage to an unborn child or a baby who is breastfeeding (not a concern for Laurie!). They will run routine blood tests every month for the first 6 months and then every 3 months thereafter. The blood tests will check normal levels as well as serum creatinine to ensure the kidneys are working properly.
For those medical folks out there, you know that bisphosphonates prevent the breakdown of bone by bone cells called osteoclasts. For the rest of us, Laurie’s dentist explained it a little easier to understand: “The bones are like roads. Before they are repaved, a layer is removed, and then a new layer of asphalt is added. Bones are similar. There are cells that are breaking down the bone, and then new cells are created. The biophosphonates decrease the activity of the cells that are “breaking down or removing” bone density and since the new cells are still being created, the bones become more dense and stronger.”
The medication she is taking is being used in Canada, the United Kingdom and Italy, where it is marketed as Bonefos, Loron and Clodron. Oral Bonefos is approved in 67 countries outside the United States largely for the treatment of tumor-induced osteolysis and hypercalcemia. So far, nearly 20 years of use and 300,000 patient-years of experience with Bonefos have been accumulated worldwide.
So, now you know a bit more about what and why Laurie is participating in this clinical trial. The bottom line is that she hopes to provide data that will one day lead to a cure for others that may experience what she has already gone through.
May God continue to bless you as He has so richly blessed our family!
.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Merry Labor Day!
Hey everyone,
Several people have said it’s time for an update since we left you hanging the last time, so here is the latest, and we apologize for the delay.
After much prayer, we decided that Laurie should participate in the clinical trial as it can help other patients down the road. She feels that her medical treatment has been outstanding, and that is in part due to other women being willing to participate in trials that helped them create the current treatment plans. So, Laurie started the clinical trial on 14 Aug 09 and it will continue for 3 years. She was put into the 2nd group, which is taking 1600 mg of Clodronate once each day (currently in use in Canada, UK and Italy under names of Bonefos, Loron and Clodron). The most likely side effect is nausea, but she has been very fortunate that she has not experienced any side effects. Luckily, she learned to swallow large pills when she was a teenager, so she is able to take the two “horse” pills each morning 1 hour before eating anything. However, her stomach is also starting to let her know when it’s hungry so her stomach has started growling (which is nice to her as her body wasn’t telling her when it was hungry before).
She also was able to go to the Gyn specialist (Dr Scott Forrest, so easy for her to remember his name) relating to the spot on her ovary, and he feels very confident that it is related to her infertility struggles, and while we will check it again in 6 months, does not believe it is something to be concerned about. As he said, it could have been there for years, and we only know about it because of the PET scan. The endocrinologist appt is in mid September, where we will have the spot on the thyroid checked out. Laurie’s friend Sheila, who is a nurse, set our expectations that we may have to have a needle biopsy before we have final answers, but we will let you know as we find out.
Laurie will also be starting her hormone treatment this week. Although she was put into menopause by the chemotherapy, the doctor cannot start her on Aromatase inhibitors (AI) until they are sure her menstrual cycles don’t return. If they did put her on AI’s and then her ovary began to produce estrogen again, then it would actually overproduce, thinking her body needed it, and that would actually create a perfect environment for her estrogen positive breast cancer to return. So she will be starting Tamoxifen, one 20 mg tablet a day. The side effects of Tamoxifen are similar to some of the symptoms of menopause, with two of the most common side effects being hot flashes and vaginal discharge. Other side effects in women may include headache, nausea and/or vomiting, skin rash, fatigue and fluid retention and/or weight gain.
One thing that Laurie asked for her birthday (although it was hard to admit she needed it) was the “daily pill box.” Although it did make her feel old to have to use one, her kind nurse at the oncologist’s office said it was just another way to be “organized”. So that is the story she is sticking with now. ;-) This box helps her remember the pills she needs to take, which include:
- Clinical trial – 2 800 mg tablets of Clodronate, first thing in am, 1 hr before food
- Vitamins – 1 One-A-Day Essential vitamin and 1 Vitron C (extra Iron) at lunch
- Calcium with Vitamin D – 1 chewable Caltrate tablet at lunch, and 1 chewable at night (have to take these at 2 different times since your body can only absorb so much calcium at one time)
- Hormone therapy – 1 20 mg pill at night
We’re not sure how many “pills” you need to be taking before you get this type of “organizer” but 7 is way beyond what Laurie’s simple mind can handle without this helper!!
Tomorrow, the kids begin school. Brooke & Ridge are in 3rd grade and Forrest starts 6th grade. Once we settle back into a routine with school and extracurricular activities, football, baseball and volleyball, Laurie will give us more detail on the clinical trial and what Radiation therapy was like. Stay tuned.
.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Flamingos!
Hey everyone,
Divine timing! Yes, that is what Laurie believes happened this past week. God used someone out there to boost her spirits exactly when she needed it the most by “flamingo”ing our yard. Yes, it brought a smile to her face and tears of joy and excitement.
Laurie had been feeling down on Wednesday and Thursday for a variety of reasons. Forrest and I had been at football practice every night last week. Laurie's work has been very busy lately which has led to some frustrating moments since she's not being able to get everything done while working the part-time schedule, Although Forrest and I were not around every evening this past week and her work has become a bit more of a challenge, the biggest reasons for her low spirits were medical.
First of all, although she had finished radiation earlier in the week, the effects didn’t peak until 2-4 days after the last treatment. So she was rather uncomfortable due to the “really bad sunburn” in the treated area. Secondly, she had to have two sonograms as a follow-up to her PET scan results from last December, but it could only be done after chemo and radiation. She went for them on Tuesday and the initial results indicated a need for her to go see two more specialists. Nothing yet to panic over, but it just seemed a little more than she wanted to handle.
Then, as she was going to bed on Thursday night, she noticed a note taped on the window beside our front door, and opened the door to get the note. That is when she noticed the 17 flamingos all over the front yard. While we still don’t know who to thank for lifting her spirits, we wanted to share this with all of you so that whoever was responsible will know it was perfectly timed and greatly appreciated!
One of Laurie’s favorite poems is "Footprints in the Sand" by Mary Stevenson. It reflects how we trust the Lord for everything and rely on him to carry us though the good and the bad.
Thanks God!
Footprints in the Sand
Last night I had a dream. I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord. Across the sky flashed scenes from my life. For each scene, I noticed two sets of footprints in the sand: one belonged to me, the other to the Lord.
After the last scene of my life flashed before me, I looked back at the footprints in the sand. I noticed that at many times along the path of my life, especially at the very lowest and saddest times, there was only one set of footprints.
This really troubled me, so I asked the Lord about it. “Lord, you said once I decided to follow you, You’d walk with me all the way. But I noticed that during the saddest and most troublesome times of my life, there was only one set of footprints. I don’t understand why, when I needed You the most, You would leave me.”
The Lord replied, “My son, my precious child, I love you and I would never leave you. During your times of suffering, when you could see only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you.”
.
Divine timing! Yes, that is what Laurie believes happened this past week. God used someone out there to boost her spirits exactly when she needed it the most by “flamingo”ing our yard. Yes, it brought a smile to her face and tears of joy and excitement.
Laurie had been feeling down on Wednesday and Thursday for a variety of reasons. Forrest and I had been at football practice every night last week. Laurie's work has been very busy lately which has led to some frustrating moments since she's not being able to get everything done while working the part-time schedule, Although Forrest and I were not around every evening this past week and her work has become a bit more of a challenge, the biggest reasons for her low spirits were medical.
First of all, although she had finished radiation earlier in the week, the effects didn’t peak until 2-4 days after the last treatment. So she was rather uncomfortable due to the “really bad sunburn” in the treated area. Secondly, she had to have two sonograms as a follow-up to her PET scan results from last December, but it could only be done after chemo and radiation. She went for them on Tuesday and the initial results indicated a need for her to go see two more specialists. Nothing yet to panic over, but it just seemed a little more than she wanted to handle.
Then, as she was going to bed on Thursday night, she noticed a note taped on the window beside our front door, and opened the door to get the note. That is when she noticed the 17 flamingos all over the front yard. While we still don’t know who to thank for lifting her spirits, we wanted to share this with all of you so that whoever was responsible will know it was perfectly timed and greatly appreciated!
One of Laurie’s favorite poems is "Footprints in the Sand" by Mary Stevenson. It reflects how we trust the Lord for everything and rely on him to carry us though the good and the bad.
Thanks God!
Footprints in the Sand
by
Mary Stevenson
Last night I had a dream. I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord. Across the sky flashed scenes from my life. For each scene, I noticed two sets of footprints in the sand: one belonged to me, the other to the Lord.
After the last scene of my life flashed before me, I looked back at the footprints in the sand. I noticed that at many times along the path of my life, especially at the very lowest and saddest times, there was only one set of footprints.
This really troubled me, so I asked the Lord about it. “Lord, you said once I decided to follow you, You’d walk with me all the way. But I noticed that during the saddest and most troublesome times of my life, there was only one set of footprints. I don’t understand why, when I needed You the most, You would leave me.”
The Lord replied, “My son, my precious child, I love you and I would never leave you. During your times of suffering, when you could see only one set of footprints, it was then that I carried you.”
.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Finally! An August Update!
Hey everyone,
It’s been three weeks since our last update. Sorry for the delay but things became crazy after we got back from the beach. We all drove down to Myrtle on Saturday, July 18th, and after the normal delays on 95, we got there around 4:30. We checked into our condo, went to dinner with some of our baseball friends, and then went grocery shopping. The next day was beach day, and then we were able to go to a marvelous seafood dinner with our cousins, Keith and Katie, and their sons Matthew and Brian (13 & 10) and daughter Savannah (6). Since Forrest did not get to see them over the July 4th weekend, he spent the night with them so he could have some extra time, and then joined us and most of the other baseball team members and their families on the beach Monday midday. Laurie had to fly back that night to continue her radiation therapy, and the baseball tournament started on Tuesday. The team did well on Tuesday, winning both games, but then began losing steam on Wednesday (although they did pull out a last inning win) and then lost on Thursday. While the baseball results were disappointing, everyone enjoyed the sun and fun even though we missed Laurie. Also, at the end of the week, the riptides became dangerous … 3 people drowned, so the lifeguards were not letting anyone in the water above their waists, and we were happy to comply!
We came back home on Saturday, and were treated to a cookout by our next door neighbors, the Rohertys, and enjoyed our refreshing pool. Forrest also had to pack and leave the next morning (Sunday) at 7 am for Boy Scout Camp (Brown Sea Island, which is below Roanoke, Virginia). He had a great time even though all of us really missed him!! Ridge went to Chantilly HS boy’s basketball day camp, and Brooke had a great week at Chantilly Academy gymnastics day camp with her new friend Julianne.
Laurie has now completed 2/3 of her radiation … hurray! She only has 8 more appointments, the rest of this week and 4 days next week. Her doctor says her skin is holding up rather well, but she is also using “Calendula cream” every day and night to help, and she prefers driving these days so that the shoulder strap is on her left side, not the right side which is receiving these treatments. She is slowly gaining her energy back but still goes to bed early to ensure her body gets plenty of rest, and some days are better than others. She had a busy weekend as her sister, Carlene and her friend, Barb, invited her to the Women of Faith Conference in DC on Saturday and it was very enjoyable … both the speakers and musicians as well as the fellowship in the NBC box of women from Kirkwood Presbyterian Church. Then on Sunday, we all had lunch with my dad, Forrest and Frances Frakes, and Kurt Hallex and Dad’s roommate Dan at Famous Dave’s and then celebrated the 4 family birthdays that evening at Carlene’s house. Today, she also went for her every 3 week biological treatment (Herceptin). The big decision that we need prayers on over the next week is whether she should participate in a clinical trial that would be over the next 3 years. Background information: when breast cancer returns or metastasizes, it is in the 2 Bs (breast or brain) or 2 Ls (liver or lung). Other countries have studies that show taking biophosphates, which is what is taken to treat osteoporosis; helps prevent the recurrence in the bones. This trial would not have placebos, but would compare 3 different types of biophosphates and its side effects. The decision has to be made by next weekend as she would have to start within 60 days of completing her chemotherapy. No side effects have subsided yet, but still hoping for that!
During the WOF Conference, the following scripture was featured, and it reminded Laurie that God gives us hope in the midst of these challenges!
John 16:33 – I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world!
Works for me!
.
It’s been three weeks since our last update. Sorry for the delay but things became crazy after we got back from the beach. We all drove down to Myrtle on Saturday, July 18th, and after the normal delays on 95, we got there around 4:30. We checked into our condo, went to dinner with some of our baseball friends, and then went grocery shopping. The next day was beach day, and then we were able to go to a marvelous seafood dinner with our cousins, Keith and Katie, and their sons Matthew and Brian (13 & 10) and daughter Savannah (6). Since Forrest did not get to see them over the July 4th weekend, he spent the night with them so he could have some extra time, and then joined us and most of the other baseball team members and their families on the beach Monday midday. Laurie had to fly back that night to continue her radiation therapy, and the baseball tournament started on Tuesday. The team did well on Tuesday, winning both games, but then began losing steam on Wednesday (although they did pull out a last inning win) and then lost on Thursday. While the baseball results were disappointing, everyone enjoyed the sun and fun even though we missed Laurie. Also, at the end of the week, the riptides became dangerous … 3 people drowned, so the lifeguards were not letting anyone in the water above their waists, and we were happy to comply!
We came back home on Saturday, and were treated to a cookout by our next door neighbors, the Rohertys, and enjoyed our refreshing pool. Forrest also had to pack and leave the next morning (Sunday) at 7 am for Boy Scout Camp (Brown Sea Island, which is below Roanoke, Virginia). He had a great time even though all of us really missed him!! Ridge went to Chantilly HS boy’s basketball day camp, and Brooke had a great week at Chantilly Academy gymnastics day camp with her new friend Julianne.
Laurie has now completed 2/3 of her radiation … hurray! She only has 8 more appointments, the rest of this week and 4 days next week. Her doctor says her skin is holding up rather well, but she is also using “Calendula cream” every day and night to help, and she prefers driving these days so that the shoulder strap is on her left side, not the right side which is receiving these treatments. She is slowly gaining her energy back but still goes to bed early to ensure her body gets plenty of rest, and some days are better than others. She had a busy weekend as her sister, Carlene and her friend, Barb, invited her to the Women of Faith Conference in DC on Saturday and it was very enjoyable … both the speakers and musicians as well as the fellowship in the NBC box of women from Kirkwood Presbyterian Church. Then on Sunday, we all had lunch with my dad, Forrest and Frances Frakes, and Kurt Hallex and Dad’s roommate Dan at Famous Dave’s and then celebrated the 4 family birthdays that evening at Carlene’s house. Today, she also went for her every 3 week biological treatment (Herceptin). The big decision that we need prayers on over the next week is whether she should participate in a clinical trial that would be over the next 3 years. Background information: when breast cancer returns or metastasizes, it is in the 2 Bs (breast or brain) or 2 Ls (liver or lung). Other countries have studies that show taking biophosphates, which is what is taken to treat osteoporosis; helps prevent the recurrence in the bones. This trial would not have placebos, but would compare 3 different types of biophosphates and its side effects. The decision has to be made by next weekend as she would have to start within 60 days of completing her chemotherapy. No side effects have subsided yet, but still hoping for that!
During the WOF Conference, the following scripture was featured, and it reminded Laurie that God gives us hope in the midst of these challenges!
John 16:33 – I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world!
Works for me!
.
Friday, July 17, 2009
July 18th
Hey everyone,
Laurie has now been through almost 2 weeks of radiation, and is just getting used to the routine. At first, it was hard for her to become accustomed to going for daily treatment … but reminding herself that it is only for 28 week days has helped her. Although the first day was longer as they had to ensure everything was lined up correctly, the subsequent appointments have only been between 15-30 minutes long! Most days, she is in and out within 15 minutes, and then once a week, she sees the doctor and every 5-6 days, they take X-Rays to make sure the radiation is going to the correct areas, so those appts take a little longer. And having the weekends off is nice as well.
This past Monday, she also went to get her ‘every 3 week’ Herceptin treatment, and she was in and out in 1 hour, which again was much quicker than her Taxol/Herceptin treatment that lasted 2 ½ hrs. So things are getting better.
Now the disappointing news. When Laurie met with her doctor last Monday, he said that different side effects subside in different time frames. The most distressing one to Laurie was that the tingling in her hands/feet may not be totally gone for a year or more!!! And her finger nails have become very discolored, which will take 2-3 months for them to grow out. Other side effects . . . time will tell! I guess she was naive to think everything would be normal again in 4-8 weeks, but then again, it’s best to be positive too!
This weekend, we will head off to Myrtle Beach for our family vacation, which is tied into Forrest’s baseball tournament down there. Laurie will drive down with us on Saturday and then fly back on Monday night since she can only miss 1 day of radiation! We had hoped to have a visit with my aunt and uncle, Dot and Grady, as part of this trip but that couldn’t be arranged. Hopefully we will get to see them soon.
I hope to provide another update when I return from Myrtle Beach.
Please remember those who are also fighting cancer right now and continue to pray for our family as we make this trip and especially Laurie as she returns home on Monday.
.
Laurie has now been through almost 2 weeks of radiation, and is just getting used to the routine. At first, it was hard for her to become accustomed to going for daily treatment … but reminding herself that it is only for 28 week days has helped her. Although the first day was longer as they had to ensure everything was lined up correctly, the subsequent appointments have only been between 15-30 minutes long! Most days, she is in and out within 15 minutes, and then once a week, she sees the doctor and every 5-6 days, they take X-Rays to make sure the radiation is going to the correct areas, so those appts take a little longer. And having the weekends off is nice as well.
This past Monday, she also went to get her ‘every 3 week’ Herceptin treatment, and she was in and out in 1 hour, which again was much quicker than her Taxol/Herceptin treatment that lasted 2 ½ hrs. So things are getting better.
Now the disappointing news. When Laurie met with her doctor last Monday, he said that different side effects subside in different time frames. The most distressing one to Laurie was that the tingling in her hands/feet may not be totally gone for a year or more!!! And her finger nails have become very discolored, which will take 2-3 months for them to grow out. Other side effects . . . time will tell! I guess she was naive to think everything would be normal again in 4-8 weeks, but then again, it’s best to be positive too!
This weekend, we will head off to Myrtle Beach for our family vacation, which is tied into Forrest’s baseball tournament down there. Laurie will drive down with us on Saturday and then fly back on Monday night since she can only miss 1 day of radiation! We had hoped to have a visit with my aunt and uncle, Dot and Grady, as part of this trip but that couldn’t be arranged. Hopefully we will get to see them soon.
I hope to provide another update when I return from Myrtle Beach.
Please remember those who are also fighting cancer right now and continue to pray for our family as we make this trip and especially Laurie as she returns home on Monday.
.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Phase 2 - COMPLETE!
Hey everyone!
We had a busy week with Laurie’s 11th chemo treatment and the visit with the radiation oncologist. Our friend Bernadine Donovan served again as a chauffeur and companion for Laurie this visit and all went well. The last chemo of Taxol was on June 22nd, but instead of a 1 week infusion of Herceptin (biological treatment) as normal, Laurie got a 3 week infusion. This represents the start of the remaining 9 months of biological treatment, which she will receive every 3 weeks from now until next March. Laurie’s friend from British Aerospace and Concert/BT, Sheila Ryan, was able to take her and they had a lot of catching up to do. Sheila then went home to get ready for a trek across the US with her oldest daughter to get her settled in San Diego for her new job.
For the next phase of treatment, Laurie starts radiation in early July. The radiation oncologist wanted to give her body one week to recover from the Taxol before starting 28 days of radiation, so that will start on July 6th, running through mid August. These radiation treatments will be on consecutive days, Monday through Friday, but with weekends off. Laurie was also given permission to skip one day in the middle, so she will be able to enjoy a long weekend in Myrtle Beach July 20th so she won’t miss the entire family vacation. The possible side effects of this phase are fatigue, itchy rash, arm swelling and short term lung issues. Of course, we hope that during that time, the side effects from the chemo (tingling in feet/toes and hands/fingers, fatigue, mouth sores) will subside as well. While each person is different, it can take anywhere from 4-8 weeks for them to subside.
Since we are starting a new phase, we will give an update of other side effects. For example, someone this week asked for an update on Laurie’s hair. Although her eyebrows have thinned quite a bit, she still has some left. Her eyelashes are mostly non-existent. But the Taxol has actually allowed her scalp hair to begin to return. It is very fine right now, and while she thought her hair used to grow fast, it is growing very slowly right now.
One of the most frustrating parts of chemo is the dulling of taste buds. Most things start to taste alike, and even the favorite foods no longer hold any interest (yes, even chocolate!). One of the treats Laurie discovered early on through a gift card from the Floris Kindergarten teachers is a high protein smoothie from Fresh City. It contains strawberries and blueberries so has a strong enough taste that she can actually taste it, and her parents have treated her to one each week since then. The nutrients can’t hurt her, and it is a reminder to her that her taste buds will return.
We are so thankful we are through the 2nd phase, and our prayers are turning to those who have recently been diagnosed. While we know our journey is not over, we hope that you will let us help you as so many have helped us thus far.
Keep the Faith!
.
We had a busy week with Laurie’s 11th chemo treatment and the visit with the radiation oncologist. Our friend Bernadine Donovan served again as a chauffeur and companion for Laurie this visit and all went well. The last chemo of Taxol was on June 22nd, but instead of a 1 week infusion of Herceptin (biological treatment) as normal, Laurie got a 3 week infusion. This represents the start of the remaining 9 months of biological treatment, which she will receive every 3 weeks from now until next March. Laurie’s friend from British Aerospace and Concert/BT, Sheila Ryan, was able to take her and they had a lot of catching up to do. Sheila then went home to get ready for a trek across the US with her oldest daughter to get her settled in San Diego for her new job.
For the next phase of treatment, Laurie starts radiation in early July. The radiation oncologist wanted to give her body one week to recover from the Taxol before starting 28 days of radiation, so that will start on July 6th, running through mid August. These radiation treatments will be on consecutive days, Monday through Friday, but with weekends off. Laurie was also given permission to skip one day in the middle, so she will be able to enjoy a long weekend in Myrtle Beach July 20th so she won’t miss the entire family vacation. The possible side effects of this phase are fatigue, itchy rash, arm swelling and short term lung issues. Of course, we hope that during that time, the side effects from the chemo (tingling in feet/toes and hands/fingers, fatigue, mouth sores) will subside as well. While each person is different, it can take anywhere from 4-8 weeks for them to subside.
Since we are starting a new phase, we will give an update of other side effects. For example, someone this week asked for an update on Laurie’s hair. Although her eyebrows have thinned quite a bit, she still has some left. Her eyelashes are mostly non-existent. But the Taxol has actually allowed her scalp hair to begin to return. It is very fine right now, and while she thought her hair used to grow fast, it is growing very slowly right now.
One of the most frustrating parts of chemo is the dulling of taste buds. Most things start to taste alike, and even the favorite foods no longer hold any interest (yes, even chocolate!). One of the treats Laurie discovered early on through a gift card from the Floris Kindergarten teachers is a high protein smoothie from Fresh City. It contains strawberries and blueberries so has a strong enough taste that she can actually taste it, and her parents have treated her to one each week since then. The nutrients can’t hurt her, and it is a reminder to her that her taste buds will return.
We are so thankful we are through the 2nd phase, and our prayers are turning to those who have recently been diagnosed. While we know our journey is not over, we hope that you will let us help you as so many have helped us thus far.
Keep the Faith!
.
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