The Sign

Today is beautiful.  I love fall.  The weather is perfect.  The Sun is shining and the air is just warm enough but still has a cool feel to it.  I love all the decorations that everyone puts on their porches, around their houses and Kent often hears me say to him, " I love looking at the sky in fall." These are all signs of fall. 

Today, we went to the oncologist and heard from him ... " How was your appt. in Ann Arbor?"  Kent told the Dr. that he was doing great.  He was not in near as much pain as the Drs. in Ann Arbor had thought.  He was doing things that he shouldn't have long before he was supposed to.  The Dr. then asked, were there any side effects that were concerning to him?  Kent was quick to respond and say,  none that are major but some that were quickly answered.  He then had an exam and we exchanged a  thank you for his care.  Most of you would be surprised to know that this Dr.  was my Dr.  for hematology before Kent called him his oncologist.  I asked him a few questions about my health  before we left him.  I, again said, " thank you for all you do for us.  How thankful to God I am for how little cancer Kent has left.  The Dr.  then said, " You have that right,and it is my pleasure."  I am so thankful for this Dr. He is one of the nicest oncologists  around.  One last thing before I get  the scheduling of what is next .... The Dr.  told Kent  "You look like you had gained weight." Kent and I said with a smile, "Yes!"  Kent has gained quite a bit.  The Dr. responded and said,  " That is a sign that there is very little cancer!"  I never thought that I would say this, " Thank You Jesus for Kent's weight."  His weight has always been in the high 150's today his weight was 178.9 lbs.  I have such a thankful heart for little cancer.

Next, Kent will be on one of the last phases of what happens before putting him on a maintenance plan.  Kent will undergo Systemic chemo for about 6 cycles. This is the same chemo that he has always received, but they will add aflibercept , a drug that he will get the second cycle, due to not wanting to damage the liver to soon after his RFA procedure.   His first treatment will be on the 17th of Oct.  We are unsure of time or many details right now. We know that he will  also be having an MRI in early November to check liver and lower abdomen  for any traces of cancer.  The Dr. isn't concerned but this will help him in the future with how to help Kent.   These are all good signs. Signs that if we can keep the cancer stable Kent will be able to hold a life of fewer Dr. appointments and as we approach Holiday's  we will be able to enjoy them and be able to work chemo around them.  

I can't help but be Thankful.  This time of year we are reminded to always, Give thanks!  I am.  I will give thanks! Cancer has been a big part of our life the past eight years. I am so glad God gives us signs that he is standing right by us and signs that he will never leave us.   

Blessings,   Leah