Tuesday, May 23, 2006

BEGINNING RADIATION


The picture doesn't have anything to do with the treatment, I just really like this picture (it's called "Tranquility" and it makes me feel that way. Anyway ... (this part is from Cari)

Tom began taking oral chemotherapy (3 pills with breakfast and 4 with dinner) and had the first of 28 radiation treatments this morning. The doctor told him he might experience nausea, fatigue and a long list of other side effects from the therapy, but (PTL) he has felt great today. He, of course, has gotten used to his afternoon nap, but didn’t seem to be any more tired than usual. His radiation is at Baylor in downtown Dallas at 10:30 a.m., so we will miss the traffic. We’ll just consider this a short term, part-time job!!

Dr. Nemunaitis called Cari last week and told her Tom’s MRI results were “very encouraging,” and that there was no sign of cancer cells apart from the two primary sites. We have determined that our attitudes will not be based on medical reports but our hope is in God’s Word. Having declared that however, we must admit we love those good reports from Dr. Nemunaitis.

We have been receiving lots of cards and emails from Tom’s UPS partners (an email went out to the UPS Retiree’s group). It has brought Tom a lot of pleasure and encouragement to hear from so many old friends.

Rachel had her heart procedure, which was completely successful, and has moved out of our upstairs grandkids incubator. She is happily getting settled in her new apartment in Panama City, Florida sporting her new engagement ring and planning the November wedding. Thanks for all you prayers for her. Keep ‘em up – she and Trey are beginning pre-marital counseling and making life impacting decisions in the next few months.

DeeDee and Cari are back home with their families and Tommy is busy with his big McDonald’s remodel, so life is pretty much back to normal. What a wonderful thing!!

Love, you all, and thanks for your continued prayers.

Eileen