At this past Monday's Oncology appointment, the doctors looked at Gary and said that he was a totally different man than the one who was there 2 weeks ago. (They had told me that they would know if the treatment was working within 2 treatments.) Apparently, the Avastin and CPT 11 combo is doing the job and we were allowed to continue with this protocol. Thanks to your prayers, he has had no side affects and is alert, funny, and optimistic.
Who would ever think that being allowed to continue with chemo would be good news? We consider it the most encouraging news we've had in a long time. He still can't walk without assistance and needs a wheelchair in certain conditions, but otherwise, he looks fantastic.
We woke to snow this morning, which confirms our decision to return to our home in the California desert. As long as the health care can be arranged, we will remain there for there for the winter. Brain Cancer is a formidable foe and we thank you for your continued support and prayers.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
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Why now?
All is well, so why now?
Well, we have been extremely touched by the care and attention so many of you have showered upon us over the past 6 months (yes, this whole thing started 6 months ago, ie. 11/27/07). Throughout this time, we've had ups and downs and many of you have shared them with us and lifted us up with your love. When this first started, I sent out emails to our beloved prayer chain warriors, our faithful families and friends. Undoubtedly and unintentionally, people who care about both of us were missed.
As snowbirds, we have returned to our home in Bend, Oregon and we miss our "Southern Friends" who have done the same thing by going home to countless beautiful communities throughout the United States and Canada. This offers an opportunity to occasionally check on Gary's progress and post your comments.
My focus is Gary, so sometimes the phone call I "should" make to friends isn't made. I'll try to update this blogsite once a week to say hello and let you know how he's doing. Please don't hesitate to call us or check this blog from time to time and leave a comment.
We know that you worry about Gary and me and hope that this will give you some comfort.
Hope it works for you. Works for me.
We're sending our love to you through this blog. Please keep him in your prayers.
Virginia and Gary
Well, we have been extremely touched by the care and attention so many of you have showered upon us over the past 6 months (yes, this whole thing started 6 months ago, ie. 11/27/07). Throughout this time, we've had ups and downs and many of you have shared them with us and lifted us up with your love. When this first started, I sent out emails to our beloved prayer chain warriors, our faithful families and friends. Undoubtedly and unintentionally, people who care about both of us were missed.
As snowbirds, we have returned to our home in Bend, Oregon and we miss our "Southern Friends" who have done the same thing by going home to countless beautiful communities throughout the United States and Canada. This offers an opportunity to occasionally check on Gary's progress and post your comments.
My focus is Gary, so sometimes the phone call I "should" make to friends isn't made. I'll try to update this blogsite once a week to say hello and let you know how he's doing. Please don't hesitate to call us or check this blog from time to time and leave a comment.
We know that you worry about Gary and me and hope that this will give you some comfort.
Hope it works for you. Works for me.
We're sending our love to you through this blog. Please keep him in your prayers.
Virginia and Gary
8 comments:
I am LOVING the news!!!! I think it's fabulous - but you're right, who would have thought another round of chemo is good news. . . enjoy the heat down south snowbirds - you both deserve it. Love you both - Sara
That is wonderful news, we are so happy for both of you.
Shenny and Al
Wonderful news! Dave and Helen
It is so good to hear from you that the protocol is working. May God's promises be made real in your life as you cope with the stuggle. Lee and I will continue our prayers for your safe return in the sping. Think of those of us in the frozen north while you are enjoying the warmth of the desert.
Shirley and Lee
We are so glad that you have a blog so that we're able to keep up with your latest news. You are in our thoughts and prayers as you go through these very rough times. The news is great! As you say, who would have thought that continued chemo would be the good news but we know it is. Praise God! So we continue to lift you both up to the great healer and look forward to more good news. Our very best wishes to you both.
Gail and Mike
What fabulous news!!! Can't wait to see you both and give you both hugs.-Stan and Adie
Great news!
James & Teri
Hi, Gary and Virginia. This is Jane from Houston TX where my treatment is finally "settling in" here at M.D. Anderson. Miracle stories abound about cancer survivor's who had been told that there "wasn't any other treatment available" but were able to be treated here and are in remission years later. I hold that vision for you and Gary, also. Your faith is strong and you know how to give and receive love, the basic lesson we were called to earth to learn, in my estimation.
Our priest at Palmer Memorial Episcopal Church spoke eloquently a few weeks ago from Esther 4:14, "You were created for such a time as this and for this occasion." That really resonated with me. May it encourage you. Have a Blessed Thanksgiving!
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