Thursday, April 29, 2010 - Chemo went well

Joe had radiation and chemotherapy today. The radiation was quick and went fine. The chemotherapy takes a little longer for the entire appointment but the actual administering of the chemo through the port (like an I.V. in his chest) is only a few minutes. Each time his blood is checked, his vitals are taken, height and weight checked, we go over medicines and results from blood work, talk to the doctor, and ask any other questions that we have. This week Joe only had one chemo medication and this particular medicine is not supposed to cause a lot of nausea - we were really excited to hear this! We will still give him anti-nausea medicines for the next week as the cumulative effect of the radiation can still cause him to feel sick and we really don't want to take any chances. Joe has lost about 5 pounds and we want to start working at keeping weight on him. He doesn't have much of an appetite so that can be a little tricky, I am finding out. Otherwise, today he is feeling great. His team, the Storm, is playing tonight so he would like to go watch the game. We want him to do as much as he is able on days he feels up to it so we will take him up to the fields and see how he does. Thanks for the prayers for the side effects of his chemo...they are working!

On another note, our friends, the Forman's stopped by today and brought bracelets they had made for Joe. They are orange and say "GOING TO BAT 4 JOE" on them with a baseball. Joe was thrilled to see these and tickled to see his friends and family wearing them. Thanks again for all the ways everyone has made Joe feel special and the ways you have blessed our family. Thanks especially for the prayers that give Joe and our family the strength we need each day. We will never be able to mention everyone's name personally and give proper thanks to all of you, but we are still so appreciative of each and every one of you and are truly humbled by your love and generosity.

All our needs have been met abundantly by friends, family, and neighbors. When asked what we need, the only thing is your prayers and words of encouragement. Everyone has been more than generous with us and we thank you all of you!