News

Last week, we did not get great news from the oncologist about my Mom. The oncologist explained that even though the last chemo didn't work and the tumor grew a bit, we are running out of options for treatment.

They will be starting her on one final treatment beginning September 5 and will give the chemo for 3 weeks and on the 4th week, they will do a CAT scan. If the scan shows no improvement, they will then change their focus to just making her as comfortable as possible. Genzyme, the chemo that she will be starting, has only a 20% chance of working (out of 100).

At the appointment, my Mom was very upset and crying a bit, but she insisted that the doctor tell her how long she has. He responded, "How long do you think you have?" She asked if she will make it to the beach in 2 weeks? He said yes. She asked about Christmas, and he sighed and said, "Helen, I don't know." From the way that he said it, it sounded like she may only be with us a few months more at the most.

She is heartbroken that the treatments don't seem to be working, although we have known all along that chemo would only ever put her in a possible remission or buy more time. My sisters and I are also heartbroken, but we continue to put on a brave face for her.

So far, we have bought almost a year and a half of time, and my sisters and I are just so thankful to be able to spend the time with her that we have spent and that we will spend.

Additionally, this week, she has begun wearing a scarf on her head. She still has some hair left, but she is very self conscious, so she has opted to wear a scarf.

She is trying to remain in good spirits, but she is tired and has mentioned that she can feel her body starting to wind down. Most mornings, she sleeps until 10:30-11am and takes another nap around 12 or 12:30. I have been trying to get her to leave the house during the day, either for a walk with the baby up the street or to run a quick errand or two. Most days, she doesn't have the energy, but sometimes she does come out.

Her trip to the beach next Sunday has her very excited and she is looking forward to seeing family, spending time with her girls and with Jack and then spending her last week there with the Bridge girls.

The cards, calls and letters continue to make her smile and keep her in good spirits. Please continue to say prayers for her and prayers for our family.

Above are two pictures from this past week. One is of her taking Jack for a stroll down the block and the other is of her with Aunt Meurita (97 years young) and Jack.