It's hard to believe that it was a week ago that Joe had his kidney surgery and tumor removed. Time has flown by fast and it feels like it is hard to get my feet on solid ground. My body is tired and my mind is still racing.
Joe had his appointment with the radiation oncologist today. First, there was a consultation regarding the treatment followed by the preparation and marking for his radiation. Once again, a lot of information and instructions to comprehend regarding the treatment plan. The outcome is very optimistic; however, if I try to process all the "what ifs" it quickly becomes overwhelming and very consuming. There are so many "possible but not very likely" scenarios that must be disclosed to us that brings up anxious feelings and some ache for my child that I hope he will never have to endure. The most important thing is that he will be a survivor of this cancer.
Joe was a trooper and very compliant in the preparation stage of his radiation therapy. We got to tour the room where his treatment will take place and meet several of the very friendly staff members. He had several scans taken and had to lie still while they made a mold of his body on the table. They marked his abdomen with a permanent marker so that each day he will lie down in the exact same position. They will direct the radiation as specifically as possible to each area. The radiation will start Wednesday and after the session he will go directly over to the Hematology/Oncology Clinic for his first dose of chemotherapy. I have been instructed to give him medicines before we arrive to help reduce his nausea and vomiting. He will receive radiation each day for 6 - 7 days (not including Sat. and Sun.) and then the radiation part of his treatment will be over.
We keep taking one day at a time. Hopefully, we will look back on this next week and feel that the radiation phase went by fast. We are praying for minimal side effects for Joe and no long term effects. We are thankful for my parents who were able to drive down from Minnesota last week to be here to help us. They will stay to help until Kevin's parents arrive in May. It is so nice to be able to focus so much of our attention on Joe and know that our other children and household are being cared for by them. Kevin will also be home from work until Joe finishes his radiation treatments. It is a lot to handle but God is carrying us through. Thanks for your prayers that are holding us up.
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4 comments:
Liz, thanks for the updates. I'm so glad to hear things are going well and that you are getting a little much needed rest. Hang in there...you are doing a great job and lots of us are praying for you all and thinking of you often.
Susan Bruner
Liz and Kevin,
Praying for you as your start radiation and chemo this week with Joe. My brother had very harsh chemo and although he had nausea and loss of appetite, he had minimal vomiting. So, continue to think positive! What a blessing that you have grandparents able to help with the household. And that Kevin has the ability to be off work during this time. Know that all the people that have offered to help any way you need it will truly be there when you do. We didn't really know what to expect but in one urgent situation one night, in a matter of minutes, we had 4 different family units helping across the metroplex to accomplish what was seemingly impossible. As difficult as it may be to admit that you are in a pinch and need some help, you will truly be amazed at the outpouring of love and support as you conquer this battle!
Kevin and Liz,
I'm so happy that everything is going so well and Joe is recovering so quickly! I have been praying for you and your family. You are very strong and Joe is a trooper! I met your parents when they came in and offered any assistance. Please let me know if there is anything you ever need - I am home much of the time. Errands, etc. I also have DS games and things that maybe Joe would like to play! I"m sure it is quite an adjustment for him not to be active. Thank you for keeping us all updated on this website. You're in our thoughts and prayers!
Patti and Lonny
Praying for Joe, you, Kevin & your family! God is sooo good and we are so thankful for a favorable tumor!
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