Bad News

On Monday I took my mother in for her monthly treatment of maintenance-dose chemo-lite plus a bone-strengthening medication. We always see the doctor first and he had the results from the PET scan she’d had last week. (One which he’d ordered back in June, but which had been denied by the insurance company, thus necessitating filing an appeal before it was accepted). The results were not good. Her cancer is back and this time it’s widespread: spine, skull, clavicle, liver… other places I can’t recall. So he wanted to immediately begin a new regimen of treatment, but they didn’t have the drug he wanted to use.

Since her veins are objecting to being stuck as much as they have been, we decided to come back Tuesday when the medication would be available and do both infusions with one “stick.” The drip of the new drug was so slow (to prevent allergic reaction) it  took three hours. She’s also scheduled to have a portacath inserted before we go back next week for the doctor to check her white blood cell count. She seems to be handling it well. At least as well as can be expected. I was in a sort of shock for half the day on Monday, because while I expected the cancer would return, I didn’t think it would be quite this soon. Even though this is about the same length of time that passed the last time she had treatment and apparent remission and then a recurrence. Of course with the PET scan having been initially denied, we don’t know what the situation was when she ended treatment last summer, but she did enjoy a couple of months of feeling pretty good before things started to go downhill again.

This time we’ll go in every three weeks for the chemo. My biggest concern is her weight. She’s lost thirty pounds since this all began and she doesn’t have much more to lose, but it is extremely difficult to get her to eat when she’s not feeling well. It doesn’t help that she’s a vegetarian who doesn’t eat milk-products, because that makes it harder to slip in high protein/calorie mini meals — people keep suggesting a milkshake but she doesn’t drink milk. Or soy milk. And doesn’t like Rice milk. I’ve offered to come over and cook some meals for her and if she takes me up on it, that might help. We’ll just see how it goes.

So, to anyone who feels led, your prayers would be appreciated.

8 thoughts on “Bad News

  1. CarolAnn Fletcher

    Oh gosh Karen, we are so very sorry to hear that. Prayers are definitely continuing for you and your mom. I truly wish that we could be there for you in person. Love from both of us.

    Reply
  2. KC Frantzen

    HI Karen
    We surely will…
    I don’t know if you’ve heard of Evolv or not, or if I’ve mentioned it, but it’s something my Dad and his twin and their partner invented over a decade ago. It finally came to market last year. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory and increases oxygen uptake in a person (or dog’s or horse’s or whomever’s system). It’s helped many, many people. You might try it. karen.myevolv.com or contact me and I can get more info to you.
    I’m so so sorry and know this is extremely difficult for you, not to mention your Mom. We will be praying and I’ve forwarded to our online Doctrinal prayer group as well.
    love in Christ, always,
    kc

    Reply
  3. Gayle Coble

    Karen, I am so sorry to hear these latest results. This morning when I was having my time with our Father, as I prayed for your Mom, I also wondered about her health’s situation. We know that this is a time to leave all things to Him and go forward one step at a time. My prayers continue for her, you and your family. My love to you…Gayle

    Reply
  4. Loren Warnemuende

    Praying for you and your mom, Karen.

    God gave me this as a special Valentine on Feb 14, 2009, a couple weeks after our daughter died. I’ve held it close ever since. I pray it will be a comfort to you as well: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” ~Romans 15:13

    ~Loren

    Reply
  5. Bivian

    Hi. I’m a new reader of “legends”. I googles you and found your blog. I have to say I was truly blessed by your blogs.
    First I enjoyed your sharing your experiences with the artist way. I felt connected to a kindred spirit and felt the Artists Way tempting to try myself. Second I noticed your last blog was over two weeks old with bad news.
    I thought my moms cancer was rough (and therefore my journey too) but is nothing compared to your paired journey.
    I pray strength hope and courage in your long suffering. I know how difficult my moms illness was for me so I’m sending thought waves of strength to you.
    Peace be upon you.

    Reply

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