Tuesday, October 28, 2008

We've been oriented.

Today took us back to Dallas for more appointments. First we met with my liver doctor at UT Southwestern - I've been his patient for about 10 years so he knows me well, and even he was surprised to hear of my latest diagnosis. After shaking his head a few times and then looking over my list of chemo drugs, he told us that my liver should be fine with these drugs... it might even do well with the help of these drugs. Great! One worry to mark off the list. I'll see him again in March, tumor free I hope.

After that I decided it was time to go wig shopping, or "cranial prosthesis" shopping as they call it in medical lingo in an effort to try to get your insurance to pay for it (no luck). I found a shop on the internet about 15 minutes away from the hospital so we drove that direction and were surprised to find it in a little shopping center... we weren't sure why we drove all the way for that. We laughed as we went in, still not believing we were shopping for wigs. We went in and the lady working said she thought she had the right one for me - I tried it on and loved it - well, I loved it as much as I'm going to love a wig. So now I'm the proud owner of the "codi" in creamy toffee - and from what I understand, she'll need to make her debut in about 3 weeks. I guess that little store in the shopping center was the place I was supposed to shop.

To end our day, we had chemo. class at the cancer center. It was informative - interesting to see a very diverse group of people getting together, none of whom really want to be there at all. We were all on information overload as we listened. I think we did learn a lot about the routine, possible side effects, and all of the people there for support. Plus, we got a free pen and thermometer so it wasn't all bad. We'll get to try out this new routine on Friday as we go in for round 1.

7 comments:

Wesley Null said...

Our family is praying for you guys, Michael and Jennifer. I appreciate your positive spirit. Know that lots of people are praying for you guys in Central Texas.

Wes Null

Dana Tinley said...

Hello Jennifer and Michael,
You are in our prayers every single day. You have half the battle won already just by keeping your great attitude. I know that Becca has given you all our #'s and please do not hesitate to use them anytime, day or night, and Michael can call Chris anytime as well as you will have many questions. You will be cancer free soon! You have been a fighter for years already. I don't want you to hesitate to call. We love and pray for all 4 of you here in Hobbs, NM. Love, Dana and Chris Tinley

Anonymous said...

I heard the song this morning by Casting Crowns "Praise you in This Storm" and LOVED it. Here is a link to the video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uHdcyue0bSw

Your great attitude continues to inspire me. Today is fasting day, so know that I am thinking and praying for all of you all day. Love you.

Michelle

Mike Allen said...

My favorite quote is "Life is made of defining moments, You either define the moment or the moment defines You" Never before has this quote had so much meaning. I am so proud of Jenn and Michael. If you could just sit back and watch them with their Boys you would be amazed at the Love and support for each other. They are defining this moment in their lives. Prayers are going up daily and new friends are being made each day. Michael has his game face on and He is just being amazing. Jenn is so strong and has been an inspiration to everyone. Lumpy will be defeated and when it is over and we have WON, Our family will be stronger than ever and our circle of friends will be larger than we could have ever imagined. Thanks to all for what you have done and what you will continue to do. Prayer Prayer and More Prayer is our utmost need. Everyone remember what Ryan says around the house "DEUCES LUMPY"

Becca said...

Jennifer & Michael! Thanks so much for the update! Jenn, I see the teacher in you writing this! I love your positive attitude! It is awesome and will get you through this! I bet your wig will be gorgeous and noone will notice a thing! I just love your blog and all the wonderful things! It is so uplifting...ironic! We are praying, praying & will do even more on Friday! Love~Becca

Kelli R. said...

Jennifer - I ran into Ron Walker yesterday and he was telling me about how you were doing. I'm so very sorry that you are having to go through this, but it sounds to me like you and "your boys" are handling it with grace and and an amazing attitude. You were always one of my favorites at the D.A.'s Office, and I wish you nothing but the best for you and your family! You will be in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you.

Kelli Ruthardt

Unknown said...

Jenn,
We are praying for you and pulling for you all the way! From my little experience with chemo let me tell you what helped me. When you just think that eating is the last thing that you want to do ask someone to make you waffles. Real waffles! They will comfort you in a way and hopefully settle your stomach a bit. Mom always made me waffles when I needed them during my chemo and they did the trick every time!