Discouraging CT Scan

In my last blog update, I mentioned that I was going for a CT-scan on January 28.  Unfortunately, the results of that scan are not encouraging.  The cancer has grown in my abdomen and around my lungs.

 I have not felt as well lately, part of the reason being that the cancer has caused me to have more fluid around my lungs and in my abdomen.  Eating has become more difficult.  Even though I spread my eating out over the day and eat small amounts, I often feel too full to eat.  My stomach just won’t handle very much.  I get very nauseated.   I try hard to eat right, but the food often just doesn’t stay down.  With the fluid around my lungs, some nights I cough a lot even to the point of throwing up.  I get out of breath when I exert myself.  I also find it more difficult to breathe at night.

We met with my oncologist and decided to discontinue my current chemotherapy regimen.  We agreed the best approach going forward is to try to find a clinical trial for me.  We have identified one potential trial at my oncologist’s office that will be open on February 22.  We have also scheduled an appointment on February 9 with an oncologist at the Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center at Georgetown Medical Center.  He has a few trials that he wants to discuss with us.  I hope to qualify for one of these trials as soon as possible.

To keep my spirits up, I am still trying to walk as often as I can.  Also, I had a really enjoyable weekend with Stacey, Stephanie, Lee and four of our grandchildren.
I was able to join them for the play Phantom of the Opera.  My family support means so much to me.  It really lifts my spirits.  Whether through telephone calls, visits or texts/e-mails.

I am including a quote from the Ensign magazine titled “The Will Within”.  It is about running, which has been an important part of my life.   It reads as follows:
“Each of us is a runner in the race of life.  Comforting is the fact that there are many runners.  Reassuring is the knowledge that our eternal Scorekeeper is understanding.  Challenging is the truth that each must run.  But you and I do not run alone.  The vast audience of family, friends, and leaders will cheer our courage, will applaud our determination as we rise from our stumbling and pursue our goal.  The race of life is not for sprinters running on a level track.  The course is marked by pitfalls and checkered with obstacles…”
I liked this quote because it recognizes the obstacles that exist in life and the importance of support of family and friends.  I really appreciate all the love and support that I receive from all of you.  Thanks for your help, support and prayers.