Forgive me, I should have written this yesterday, but to be honest, I was singing songs of praise and worship, celebrating with family, and thanking God. My scan was PERFECTLY CLEAR. I was aware that they were watching one area for changes, but it turns out there were a couple of other areas of concern that we were unaware of. All those areas show no increased metabolic activity indicating no cancer. The only area of increased activity was my bones which is good because it shows that the drugs to increase my white counts are doing their job stimulating my bone marrow. Thank you God!!!! He has listened and heard our prayers and I am once again humbled by each of you and your faithfulness in bringing our prayers before the thrown of God. So, what is next??? My liver function tests are climbing which lets us know that my liver needs a break. The rise is not dramatic, but it has been climbing consistently. I will go off the oxalyplatin at the end of this cycle (I have had eight cycles), for a few months and continue with 5FU in the oral form. Yes, this is the drug that we had a little battle with the insurance company over. We are praying that since they finally approved it before, then will do so again. We will scan again in 3-4 months. If there are any areas of concern at that time, I will go back on the combination drugs again. My cancer has respond well to that combination and there is every reason to believe that if we need to, we can go back to that. Encouraging to me is that the neuropathy should improve, the cold sensitivity should go away (excellent as we head into cold winter months), and I will not feel quite so tired. We are trying a new drug regimen to help with that. I slept for 4 days last cycle, and so far this cycle has been much better. Last week I wrote about the colors of the autumn leaves. They are still beautiful, and the grands are out collecting them. Next we plan on collecting some acorns for a little decorating project.....yes, I am feeling better. I had to smile Monday morning as we were leaving the hospital after then scan....our first snowfall of the season. Again I was struck my the awesomeness of our God. The snowfall was those little, unique, perfectly formed, six pointed crystals. Again, God didn't have to create such beauty for us, in fact, our busy lives don't allow much time to stop and appreciate it. Perhaps it is a blessing to have to slow down life, to pause and wonder over the little things, to thank God for the moments, to seek joy, to give thanks in all things. No, not perhaps, I am certain this is God's plan for me. I need to keep my eyes on Him, to be constantly aware of the miracle He is performing in my life, and the ripple effect that has on those I love, as well as those who have been consistently praying for me, a stranger, a friend, a friend of a friend. To all of you, you have my deepest thanks, you are being my rock, and I have been so blessed.
May you be blessed,
Annie
