Round 5

Sorry it's been awhile since we updated the blog. It's been a rough week. Round 5, as expected, was worse than round 4. Each round brings the old side effects and adds new ones to our surprise. This week was a drop in blood pressure, dehydration, very active saliva glands and some other un-pleasantries. Joe ended up back in the center for 3 more hours of an IV of "good stuff" to boost him up. It definitely helped. He finally stopped vomiting this morning and hopefully is done for this round. He just keeps saying "I can't explain the feeling, but it's not good." Next week Joe starts a series of tests to determine if the Hot Chemo surgery is NOT a go. What that means is if they find numerous tumors, the surgery is off. If they don't find anything, it doesn't mean they aren't there, it just means they aren't showing up (like some of his original tests). The only way to truly know is to look. If he passes the first test, he will be scheduled to go to UofA. They will perform a laparoscopic "look" with a camera to see what they can. If they see lots of tumors, it's a no go. If not, they open him up as if he will be having the surgery. If they open him up and see lots of tumors, they close him, he heals and comes home. If they don't see many (enough that they can remove safely), they proceed with the surgery. So we have 3 main hurdles. If they can't perform the surgery, we come back and the Dr.'s will discuss his next options. No sense in speculating...just keep praying for the surgery. You are a powerful group and can help us get to surgery!

Until then, we have so much to look forward to. This weekend is Shelli's Chandler Service Club Ball. It's a formal event and Joe will be presenting Shelli at the ball. We will all waltz together in our formal gowns and tuxedos. I will definitely post pictures for everyone.

After that, our friends from College and High School are coming to town. We're planning a fun taco feast and lots of reminiscing. After that we'll be celebrating Easter with family and friends and then our Niece's wedding and then Shelli's High School Graduation and Amanda's graduation for her master's degree. After that we will celebrate Joe's successful surgery!!

Thanks for the continued thoughts, prayers and messages.

It means the world to us and is helping in so many ways.

XOXO
Sherrie