Tuesday

I finished the second round of chemo yesterday afternoon around 1 p.m. That was a great feeling. For now we are just waiting. My next biopsy will be Monday, July 31st. I'm not sure of the exact time yet. It will take a day or two to receive the results, and there's the same possible outcomes as last time. I'm praying for an answer one way or the other. Indecisive results that mean a repeat biopsy another week out aren't really what any of us want.

The doctor seemed really positive this morning. I asked a few questions about what various results could mean. They aren't able to tell me a whole lot yet. If I'm in remission, I'll be able to go home once my counts are up and begin consolidation treatments (outpatient). I don't know how long that will take, though, and they told me it varies by person. My counts are still looking o.k. today so no transfusions until Thursday or so. That's a huge praise. I'm still being told that I'm receiving way less transfusions than normal. They are going to continue my antibiotics for now. I am so thankful for the health I've had thus far. I've actually managed to put on 8 pounds over the past week -- while on chemo! God be praised. My nursing care has been excellent, too. Everyone is taking wonderful care of me.

Yesterday was eventful in that I took the plunge and had my head shaved. I was starting to look rather patchy with about a 1" part. It has taken some getting used to for sure. I still don't recognize my reflection and I am getting used to a very sensitive scalp, but overall God has been gracious and it hasn't been as difficult as I expected.

Thank you once again for all your cards and comments. I didn't sleep well last night and started in with some achiness last night, so when the mail arrived at 8:30 this morning (a very unusual occurence) I felt so loved and encouraged. God sure knows what I need and when.