A Grateful Day!

It's good to be among the living. Round five of chemo proved to be disastrous and Dr. Litton feels the risk of one more dose of taxotere or carboplatin is not worth permanent neurological damage or worse. I agree.
Two weeks ago I developed an infection that required a trip to the emergency room. After returning home I had a reaction to the medication and had to go back to the hospital via ambulance where they administered phenergan and I had a violent reaction to that. Three days later I was able to return home with the aid of Home Health Care. Mike and Shannon were trained in administering antibiotics through my pic line and they have proven to be extremely good "nurses" as they have cared for me literally 24/7 for the last few weeks. I'm still fighting the infection, but able to take antibiotics orally. The greater issue is neurological damage from the T and C chemo. Gratefully I am under the care of a fabulous Neurologist, Dr. Nancy Futrell, and making excellent progress. The fact that I can type (however slow) is a miracle to me and also gives me assurance that the damage is not permanent. It has only been a few days that I've been able to walk unassisted for many weeks, and I'm feeling stronger every day. The plan now is to continue with the Herceptin once every 21 days for the next 8 1/2 months. This is the most important drug for me and has mild if any side effects. Dr. Litton feels the nurses at the infusion center will be succesful in administering the Herceptin IV and so I was able to have the pic line removed. Our goal for my next treatment is the 24th if the infection is cleared. I'll meet with the Radiologist in December to determine when radiation will begin.
It is impossible to express the gratitude I feel for each one of you. Your love and concern has meant more to me than you'll ever know. Each phone call, note, response on the blog, visit, prayer and fast has strengthened and bouyed me up. Thanks to you I'm on the road to recovery and look forward to seeing you or talking with you soon.
My deepest love and gratitude,
Shirlene

New Kicks

Grandma thank you sooooo much for my new shoes, I love them!

East Coast Halloween '08

Robot and his scientist.

Arizona Fun

Round Five

"Fighting" cancer brought new meaning to the word after round four, and I'll admit there were a few days I wondered if I could really come out on top, but with the team I have behind me there was no doubt and I was able to catch a plane to sunny Arizona and spend a fabulous weekend with the family there. Shannon, Poppy, and the UT girls traveled by car to join the fun. Thanks to Chris and Kristen for the airline ticket, and Brandon for flying home with me. We had a wonderful time going to lunch, shopping at Designer Blvd., going to Streamers, bowling, and just hanging out. It was so good to see my AZ girls, and I think it helped them a lot to see me, too. Sunday was a treat to hear Chris and Kristen speak in church, and as always, I felt the talks were direct from the Lord to me. Their topic was from President Monson's last conference speech "Enjoy the Journey". I learned a lot, and hope to better in the coming days. (My first goal is not to moan at Shannon every time she brings me pills). I continue to be humbled, grateful, and amazed at the love and care I receive on a daily basis. I'm geared up and ready to take on round five for the next little while. Thank you once again my dear friends for all you do for me. I love hearing from you, reading your comments, and express special thanks for the meals, gifts, cards, garden produce, and especially your prayers. I feel the tender mercies of Lord daily because of your efforts. With love 'till next time.
Shirlene

Five down, one to go!

Love you!

Check It Out...

...Shirlene has a new post that is after "NYC Girls Trip". Scroll down and take a gander.