Round Two, Second Line Chemo, Day One

Hello. :)

I haven't been back for over a week, because nothing earth shattering happened.  Good news!

Rob had last week off chemo after finishing his first round.  These chemo treatments are referred to as "second line chemo"...  the doctors' "second try" at going after the nasty C monster, because the first try didn't work back in 2013.

So, since November 17th, Rob has completed four weeks (one round) of second-line treatment like a champ, as most people don't make it to 4 weeks because of their numbers.  For round two, he is only scheduled to undergo three treatments.  On the fourth week, we'll see his oncologist again, and he'll get ready for the pokes and prods and CT scans to see what these second line treatments have done on the cancer.

With the week away from the chemo, Rob's WBC's went up 1.5 units, which is not much at all, but it took him to just over the low end of normal.  We'll take it!!!  We know that will change, but it was nice to see, nonetheless.  All of his RBC numbers (three in all), remain below normal, and his platelets have continued to fall  --  but again, they are still within the low normal area.  I am feeling a little concerned about the immature granulocytes being above normal again, but we'll talk to the doc about that when we see her.

Last week we used the "non-chemo day" to go see Rob's surgeon.  We shared concern about Rob having had to go through another CT and the biopsy after he told us he didn't want to put Rob through that.  His doc shared with us that he and the oncologist talked over Rob's case after he saw us, and their choices were to either try the chemo again and see what happens, or do nothing so his remaining time wasn't spent sick from the chemo.  When I got home and thought about that statement, it was as if someone slapped me in the face.  I guess I didn't realize we were at that point of decision yet.

Currently, Rob is dealing with a myriad of symptoms...

His hair is there, though a mere fraction of what it was.  But it IS still there so far!  His voice remains raspy (especially after treatments), he seems to lose his balance (grabbing for the wall), is understandably angry at times, suffers constant headaches, and sleeps a lot.  A lot.  When I said something to him about that the other day, he said when he's sleeping, he doesn't hurt.  *sniff*

I have had to stay home with him a handful of times so far, and was even called home last week because he was not doing well at all.  That call scared me.  I barely remember the drive home.

Your continued prayers are so appreciated, as Rob is dealing with horrible head pain that doesn't stop.  More of the stronger meds still aren't making it go away.  But he doesn't want me to call the doc again yet (even though the oncology nurse today suggested we do just that).  So I sit quietly and watch.  I find that I watch his chest as he sleeps when I check on him.  Just making sure, you know?  Just making sure.

When we got home tonight, Rob slept for a good three hours.  When he awoke, he came out and said, "This one has hit me real bad."  It's amazing how looking into his eyes can hurt so much.

We are looking forward to Christmas, to celebrating with family, to fellowship, food, laughter, smiles, happy memories, and to refocusing on the season of the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ.  And even though Rob has not felt the best, he has carried on the tradition of lighting the Hanukkah candles each night, because even though he is a Believer, he is still Jewish by family, and proud of his heritage.

We thank you for every thought and prayer and blessing sent our way.  You have no idea what a positive impact you have made on our lives, how much strength you have given us, and how humbled we are to have you as friends of the heart.  Thank you is hardly enough.  You have touched us deeply.

We grieve with our friends who have suffered loss this year, and wish we could hold and comfort you all longer than we have.   In our hearts, we never let go.  And we will continue to wrap you in prayer.  

Together we wish you all a very blessed season, good health and happiness, the love of family and friends, and a coming year filled with all things good.  And even if there are a few bumps along the way, even a walk through the valley... we pray you grow through the experience, that your character is strengthened, and that you seek the comfort and peace that only He can offer.

Merry Christmas, and may God bless us, everyone!


In Love and Wrapped in Peace,

Cheri (and Rob)

  ♥