Nancy and I met with Dr. Saroha last Friday. We made a temporary decision regarding chemo treatments. It is time to chase quality of life.
Dr. Appointment
The three of us decided that now was a good time to take a break from chemotherapy.
My blood work reveals that my body is wearing down under the constant barrage of chemo. During this break we will be doing blood work and scans to monitor my progress and should anything of concern arise we will jump right back into treatment mode.
Last time we entered a break like this I was chemo free for a whole year. I am hopeful for the same thing this time around.
To be very clear, we are not giving up on treatments. I am going to be doing everything I can to strengthen my body during this break so that when treatment resumes I will be stronger and better able to handle it.
To be very clear, in another direction, this break does not mean that my cancer is in remission. Quite the opposite. It is present in my liver and we will be watching to see when it begins to grow again. This round of treatment has done what we wanted, we have shrunk tumors and beat it back, yet the stuff still exists.
How do you feel?
I was reading my blog from the last time I took a break and I am having some of the same feelings this time.
There is something unsettling about stopping treatment when you know it is the treatment that is fighting the cancer. Last break it took me six to eight weeks to relax and enjoy life. I felt every pain, twinge and ache as if the cancer was growing in my body. Once I was able to relax we enjoyed a full year chemo free.
I am glad to be taking a break. I am also a little nervous for what that means long-term.
Dr. Sarhoa assured me that this was normal and that it was good for me to be doing. So far his wisdom and guidance has proven to be true in every situation.
Where is that book?
I am in the process of reviewing the editor’s suggestions regarding the book. Once that step is complete we will head into the production phase. I am hopeful that we will have this project complete and available by the end of this year. I will keep you posted.
We are the church’s neighbors across and up the street a little way. We will be praying for you and your family. God bless.
Keeping you in mind Pastor Dan. Have doctors offered up anything else that might help keep the growth at bay that is not chemotherapy (and would allow you the possibility to stress less on the break in the meantime)?
I have a diet that I try to stick to and then I am going to use this time to exercise like I have not been able to. Sounds like you may have some thoughts…
Hi Dan!
It’s Tanya (Rudl) Ovack. I have the fondest memories of things we did in our little group Freshman year at Messiah! I have been keeping up with your blog, and I want you to know that I am praying for you and Nancy and your family as you continue in your journey against this cancer! Your testimony has been an encouragement and testament to God’s faithfulness in all aspects of our lives. Much love and prayers for you all!
Tanya 😊
Praying for miracles,strength,and Holy Spirit peace for all
Dan –
You and Nancy are and will continue to be in our prayers ever morning.
May God touch you and give you many years of healing and restoration.
Gary Coombs
Prayers for strength and healing. God is able to do exceedingly above all we ask or think! Love u guys!
Ok I approve this😉😉😉😉