Gotta put on the P.A. the new CA

Thanks Stan for the title. I wanted to call it, "Time for the Happy Dance Again" but he said, that's too old. It also makes me a bit sad because my friend Tammy who taught me to do the Happy Dance passed away a few months ago. I can still see her grab my hands, lift me out of the chemo recliner and say, it's time to dance! I miss her, but I will never forget her optimism and zest for life.

I had my visit with Dr. Downey on Monday. The great news is that the CA-125 is down from 241 to 77!! I was prepared for it to maybe even go up, because that is what they often see when people are started on Doxil. He also reviewed the results of the CT scan from last week. The one larger spot near my gallbladder fossa is the same size. There are a few other spots that look like they have gotten smaller. So this is also good news. My biggest side effect from this drug (besides being tired) is a rash I have on my legs. But, they said, sorry you have a rash, but we think you should continue with this drug because it seems to be working. I agreed, and they gave me some meds to help with the itching. I still miss my "hot" things, but I am getting used to throwing some ice cubes in my morning coffee. So far, no big problems with sore hands or feet.

I have been able to return to work a little bit. I have taught three Sat. childbirth education classes and worked on the floor some. I prefer 4 hr. shifts, because I really am tired when it's much longer. It has been so nice to see all of my co-workers again. I really did miss them. Another nurse from our unit was just diagnosed with Leukemia, and has to be up at Spectrum for a month. We are all so sad and shocked at this news. Our hearts and prayers go out to Paula and her family.

That is the one thing that just seems to be a constant. the waiting room at the oncologist office is always full of new patients that seem to have the same look that my family and I had when we first were there. "Deer in the headlights" look and fear of what they have to go through. Aug. 1 was my second year anniversay of learning that I had cancer. I remember thinking, if I could just have another year or two, that would be so wonderful. Well, I got that, and I am thankful everyday that I have been around for so many wonderful things, Ross, Rumy, Mieke and Aaron all graduated, their wedding, the birth of my darling little grand daughter...and so many other wonderful moments with family and friends. I don't take any day for granted, I look at them as a gift. I was happy to have another birthday.

I am having lots of fun helping Mieke decorate her new classroom in Hudsonville. When Stan saw the picture her principal took of her signing her contract, he said, this makes all the tuition to Hope College worth it!!

Every thing I read about living with cancer says that you need to be hopeful. This was in a recent email:

• Be true to yourself. Make sure that you are doing activities and involved in relationships that keep your sense of self and identity separate from your diagnosis of cancer. (working and teaching help me feel "normal")
• Stay connected. Both formal and informal relationships provide a positive impact on your life. (girlfriends, PEO sisters,family)
• Set goals for the future. This will give you a sense of power over your own health and well-being.(I need to add a few more things to my bucket list)
• Find ways to give back. Use what you've learned to help others. (I hope to start doing Kids Hope again and volunteer at church more)
• Stay in touch with your spirituality. This is defined by your personal sense of spirit and may be religious or meditative in nature. (Keep believing in the power of prayer, attend a Bible Study and keep daily devotions a priority)

Stan just left for his golf league. He is not happy with how he is playing this year. But he still enjoys the guys and being out in the fresh air. Our garden up north is starting to really produce. If anyone needs zucchini, let us know!

I you want to see a little of Rumy in Bulgaria at their concert. Go to You Tube
Rumyana plays Rachmoninoff     It is amazing, all for memory too.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZUQw0bWkRU&feature=share

To see pictures of Ainsley Grace: try this site:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/35538699@N04/