February 2, 2010

Today was the first day of infusion chemo at the Cancer Center. Justin and Allison met us here at the house and drove over to the appointment with us, so the whole family got to be together. We arrived for the 11:00 appointment and it started off with labs. They had to establish a baseline, as well as determine if she was healthy enough for treatment to begin. They started her IV and had some trouble finding her veins, so there was some talk of having a port put in before she has many more treatments. The nurse told us that Mom would have a big part in that decision, so we'll see what she decides. It is a surgical procedure; however, she would be admitted and released within the same day. Because this will be a bi-monthly process for the next year, I would imagine we'll talk to Dr. Torres to get more information about having a port put in.

The labs took about an hour to complete, so treatment began at around 12:15. We visited the cafeteria while we were waiting. There are 2 medications that she is given and because this was her first treatment, they administer the medicines slowly to monitor her body's response and watch for allergies or other undesirable reactions. We watched tv, did some crossword puzzles, and sudoku while we waited, as well as thumb through several magazines. Treatment was finished just before 5:00 and she's scheduled to go for her second one on February 19. We have a follow-up appointment with Dr. Torres, and will meet Dr. Julien, the new neurosurgeon, on February 10.

The amount of support and comfort we have received from all of you is overwhelming. I cannot begin to thank you all for your gifts, kind words, willingness to help, and prayers. We are very fortunate, even during this difficult time, to have such caring friends. Thank you all!!!