Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Update

I realized today as I was talking to a friend that I need to update you all on my health and current prognosis.  I am feeling GREAT.  That doesn't mean perfect... but great compared to what it could be.  There are still many things that make my days challenging, but don't dwell on them because none of them even come close to this past year or  a few months ago when I came so close to my deathbed.  I am having some spells of total loss of memory and ability.  I will be driving for example and all of a sudden won't remember where I am or which pedal is the gas or brake.  I entered a silly ping pong tournament with Larry on our cruise and in the middle completely forgot how to hit a ping pong ball.  They are odd things that occur at odd times, but they worry me.  My bowels (in the spirit of full honesty) are pretty awful...but I am still SO grateful that I don't have to have a colostomy bag.  They work...just not the same as usual.  (sorry again to mention...)  My legs are still numb to my knees.  A few times lately I have had bloody blisters that I never could even feel because of the numbness.  Walking/running is awkward because of the strange sensation of numbness, but I am doing much better.  It feels the strangest in tennis, but it works.  I am SO grateful to be able to play!  My hairloss STOPPED...just as my thin combover on the top was about to go.  I have a bald spot in the back.  I have learned to cover it...and I have a wig.  The good news is that hair just started growing on my legs again so I think I will have new peach fuzz on my head.  I have bad hair right now...but it is hair.  I didn't expect to keep any.  No complaints.  My vision is returning in most places.  I am so grateful to be able to read again...but I am still addicted to audiobooks that kept my brain from turning into mush in the hospital.

I know you really want to know where my cancer is right now.  Answer:  I don't know.  I have more scans and tests scheduled this month.  Please continue to keep me in your prayers.  The reoccurrence rate in stage 4 cancer is very high...but I feel SO optimistic.  I have been so aggressive in treatments and have survived all of those.  I will update you as I get results.

3 comments:

Charlotte said...

I hope you continue to feel better. Congrats on the new hair growth. Her is hoping for lots more!

Aly G said...

I can't believe all you have gone through seriously! I had no clue the side effects that you are dealing with! You look so great though! I had no idea you had a wig!? Crazy! You are in my thoughts and prayers! So glad things are well!

Laurene said...

I had not realized I had missed this post until my husband mentioned it to me last night. It means to much to me to be aware of all you have mentioned and to also know that you are doing a marvelous job of not letting it pull you down. You are enjoying a normal life as much, as your body will let you, and staying on the bright side of every set back and/or frustration. Your blog is such an amazing reference site for me in my life! Thank you!!!