No treatment today

Posted by April on June 16th, 2009 filed in Medical

Hello,

Joel was scheduled to have his bi-weekly chemotherapy today.  As usual, we met with his oncologist first.  Joel explained that he is still struggling with fatigue from this new treatment.  Joel dreads his chemotherapy sessions since he knows he will not feel well for at least a week, if not longer, after the treatment.  Then, once he begins to feel better, it is time for another treatment.  His doctor believes that the treatment is making Joel feel worse than the disease itself.  So, much to Joel’s delight, he will not have another treatment for the next four weeks.  At that point, we will meet with the doctor again and assess Joel’s condition.  Depending on how Joel is feeling, treatment might begin in four weeks, he may have a scan or he might be able to enjoy more time away from chemotherapy.  For the time being, Joel is simply ecstatic in having the break from chemotherapy for a few weeks.

On a side note, the garden is looking fantastic!  The kids are excited to harvest the first fruits of their labor.

Take care!

April

P.S.  Good morning, Shelli!       🙂


8 Responses to “No treatment today”

  1. Erin Carr Says:
    June 17th, 2009 at 5:10 am

    I don’t know what to say. Of course, I don’t want him to suffer, but I know this has to be hard on you to go this route too. I’m so sorry and I do hope he is able to enjoy life while hopefully keeping the cancer from spreading more.

    Always praying…
    Erin

  2. Julie Wolfschlag NIezer Says:
    June 17th, 2009 at 5:24 am

    As always, your strength never ceases to amaze me! I hope that Joel enjoys his days “off” because he has CERTAINLY EARNED THEM! Your family remains in the hearts and prayers of sooooo many!

    Still hoping and praying…Julie

  3. Karen Allen Says:
    June 17th, 2009 at 6:31 am

    April,
    Thank you for keeping us posted. We have been thinking of you. Very happy that Joel will hopefully not be as fatigued.
    Karen

  4. Paula Cooprider Says:
    June 17th, 2009 at 6:32 am

    I thought about both of you yesterday. I’m glad to think that Joel is going to have some days not filled with fatigue and that he will feel like being out and about. We’ll keep praying. Love, Paula
    P.S. I heard about the gourmet meal you prepared for Kathy and Damon! It sounds delicious.

  5. Betty Jo Lightle Says:
    June 17th, 2009 at 6:49 pm

    As a novice cancer survivor and a strong believer in prayers, I have been taught recently to be specific in my requests. So, knowing what Joel’s wishes are, I pray that this hiatus from chemo allows you all time to enjoy each other, that each day brings you joy, and that the Lord surrounds you all with his loving comfort. You and your family have been exceeding courageous during this battle.

  6. Connie Matalon Says:
    June 17th, 2009 at 7:16 pm

    Hi April,

    Thanks for the update. Stan and I were wondering all day yesterday how Joel’s treatment was going. So,now we know… It IS good to hear the Joel is “simply ecstatic” about the break in treatment. He certainly deserves a break… Both of you are amazing.
    Cousin Connie

  7. Karen Allen Says:
    June 26th, 2009 at 12:57 pm

    Joel, April,
    Thinking and praying for you a lot.
    Karen

  8. Paula Cooprider Says:
    June 28th, 2009 at 11:29 am

    Hi Joel and April,
    Just wondering if you’re watching the Cardinal game? How is your garden doing? We have blooms on the TopsyTurvy tomato and on our peper plant. Looks promising. Read your mom’s e-mail about their trip and negotiating with the tooth fairy. I love that story! What a great tradition! It still makes me smile today. We’re continuing our prayers for you. Talk to you soon. Paula

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