Hi Everyone!

Well it's hard to believe that I have now had treatment #6.  Once again I was blessed with high counts so I am able to get my full dose of chemo.  I have had trouble with my port not working properly.  Next Thursday I have to go in for a port check.  Just one more medical procedure to experience!! 

I continue to do well except for the fatigue and now some gum issues.  I'll be checking in with my dentist next week.  I have tried to keep to a daily schedule of getting up at 7:30am and napping as needed.  I do make it a point to get out each day at least once.  Next week I will be substituting for summer school.  It's from 9-12am and I am really looking forward to it.

I hope you are all enjoying these warm summer days.  Looks like a nice week ahead.

That's all for now,

Karen

Happy Friday!

I've completed round #5 of chemo and I'm still doing very well.  Dr. Albain said I looked very healthy and my counts are great.

 

Since I seem to have energy on Fridays,  I was able to go to the Field Museum and see the Pirate's Exhibition today.  Very interesting.  We then ate at Manny's Deli recommended by Barack and Michelle Obama.  Great corned beef sandwich!

I survived the buzz.  It's definitely a weird feeling.  I am wearing my wig for outings and slowly getting used to it.  It is more comfortable to be around the house without it.  I also have some hats that work, too.  I'm sure you are all anxious to check out my new look.

I once again want to thank you all for everything from daily prayers to "weekly happys".  I can't believe how creative you are!

Take Care,

Karen

Hello Everyone!

I arrived home from Arizona and went right over to Loyola for treatment #4.  My counts are still good but I need to drink more water!!  

The Arizona trip was wonderful.  My college roommate Karen was delighted that we could visit.  We modified some of our activities so I could get that daily nap.  We went to get to the Fairmont Princess Spa where I had an amazing relaxation massage. I had no idea that you could feel that great!!!   Emily and Karen got the manicure/pedicure deluxe treatment.  We also went to the Arboretum, the Daimondback vs. Giants game, Old Scottsdale (Sue, we ate at the Sugar Bowl!), and of course the mall.  Our trip to Tucson will have to wait until next year. 

On the side effect note, my hair did start to fall out on Wednesday.  I will be going for that much anticipated buzz early next week.  Time to try some new looks.  Oh, I just can't wait!!  

That's all for now.  Thanks again for all you continued prayers and support.

You have no idea how uplifting it is!!!

Karen

It's Saturday night and I'm finally finding a moment to write.  On Thursday, I met with Dr Albain and she agreed that things are moving along well so far.  My counts are very good so I got the okay to go to Arizona.  Emily and I take an annual trip to visit her Godmother and my college roommate, Karen.  We had the tickets for a long time so I'm delighted to be going.

  I was happy that I made it to the last day of school without a problem!  There is always so much excitement that last week!  It was great to have closure with the kids.  I even made it to both staff gatherings.  You all know how I hate to miss anything.

I must admit that the last two days I have felt more tired and achy than before.  One of the side effects of the white blood count booster is sore bones.  I'm starting to get the idea of what that means.  All in all I still am amazed at how good I feel.  I'm also glad that I have a full head of hair for our trip tomorrow.  No sign of loss yet!  

I wish you all a wonderful week!

Karen

It's Tuesday and time for an update.  I am so happy that today is far different from last Tuesday.  Although I was a little tired, I had absolutely no sign of an upset stomach today!!  You have no idea how great that is.

  I stopped in at Loyola on Monday and got a compression sleeve for the arm on the side of my surgery. This must be worn when flying and if there is any sign of swelling.  I am glad to say that there is no sign of swelling but I need the sleeve for a flight to Phoenix on Sunday.  Emily and I have had tickets for 6 months.  It's our annual trip to visit Aunt Karen.  I'm feeling well enough that I can go and I plan to relax when I'm there.  Really, I will!!!! 

I am anxious to meet with Dr. Albain on Thursday.  This will be our first meeting since the chemo started.  I will let you know how that goes.

Thanks once again for all the care and concern you shower me with!!  I'm being held up by a mighty strong net.

Until next time,

Karen

Good Morning!

Well, I just woke up and realized that I slept for 10 hours.  I don't remember that happening for a very long time.  Guess I feel like a teenager again!??  My treatment on Thursday went as expected.  My counts were good and I had no reaction.  The whole process took about 2 1/2 hours.  First I get a blood test.  You then have to wait for the results.  Then they connect the IV to the port. (the port does work great!)  Then I get some pills for nausea.  .  Then you finally get the medication.  That part only takes about 20 minutes.  

Emily came in to town to take me to Loyola.  She was glad to see where and how this all takes place.  She did not, however, enjoy the needle part.  She also went with me on Friday to see the surgeon.  I finally got my release from him! (No more draining)  Dr. Dehaan was a wonderful doctor.  I was very fortunate to have had him for my lumpectomy.  

Last night Tim and I were treated to a delicious dinner.  Head chef Anna Becker with the help of Al Daleo and Emily, prepared chicken fajitas with all the trimmings.  The food was yummy and the visit was fun!  Anna also made me a Karen's chemo countdown puzzle.  Very creative!!

Other than being a little more tired than usual, I am thankfully able to continue my regular routine.  The kids at school always put a smile on my face!  Only 1 week to go.  Wow!

God really does work through those around us.  I see this every day!  What a blessing!

Take Care,

Karen

Today was a bit different for me.  I had quite a lot of nausea which has been the only uncomfortable side effect that I have had so far.  I went to Loyola this morning to get my port.  Thankfully, they gave me some good anti-nausea drugs.  The port procedure took about 3 hours.  Terri Schroeder was my driver, conversationalist, wheel chair pusher and great support!

After a good nap, I was ready to go to Naturally Yours, a wonderfully helpful place in Willowbrook, to check out their wig options.  This time my fashion consultant, Laurie Schubkegel, went along for much needed input.  I certainly didn't want to look like Bozo the Clown!!  I will go back in two weeks to have a final fitting.  You will all have to see my new look!!!

( Remember, I am very conservative!!)

Tonight I am feeling much better.  I am trying to eat smaller portions of food more often.   Maybe this will do the trick.  

That's all for now.  Tomorrow is talent sharing in my music classes.  It's always a fun and interesting day!  The children can share some kind of musical talent with their classmates.

Have a good evening,

Karen