Life has been challenging here, to say the least, but things are on the upswing. My first round of chemo was difficult - every side effect was manifest to the extreme (and I wasn't supposed to have extreme side effects with this chemo). My doctor thinks I am missing an enzyme that metabolizes one of the chemo drugs. So without that enzyme the drug is more powerful in my body- almost like getting a mega dose. The result was 4 days in the hospital to treat a large blood clot in my pelvis, a severe colon infection, and a white blood cell count that dropped to 0. Besides that, my hair came out in clumps, the skin on my hands blistered and peeled, nausea, diarrhea, mouth sores, and no appetite. 

So forget all that! Here is the important part. I had such amazing care from the Huntsman Cancer Institute. It truly is the Taj Mahal of hospitals. The staff was amazing: doctors, nurses, pharmacists, dietitians, and even housekeeping. All so kind, gentle, and caring. I actually felt sad to be leaving. But beyond that was the loving care of my Heavenly Father and His Son. There were times I was sure my room was full of angels tending to me and supporting me. There were sweet miracles some might call coincidences, but I call tender mercies. Devon and our children have been beyond loving and caring. It was a scary experience for us all. I think it has been hardest on Devon. He tries so hard to meet my every need and often wishes there was more he could do. I have decided nurturing is definitely not a natural characteristic for men. But he has done such an amazing job! I am truly blessed!!!!

Moving on from here, I'm in recovery mode and feeling better every day. I am extremely fatigued, but finally have an appetite and enjoy eating again - oh the simple pleasures. I've bought some cute scarves to cover my bald head. I don't miss my hair at all! In fact it sure makes things easier. Maybe when I feel better and want to go out I’ll feel differently. Emily is knitting me a darling hat with cute little beads and I'm going to start a more basic hat. I don't feel like doing much but I do enjoy knitting. I see my doctor on Friday and if all is well I probably will proceed with an adjusted chemo dose the following Tuesday. 

So the message I want to leave is that God loves us and is aware of our every need. He never leaves us to struggle on our own. It is us who leave Him. I have felt the multitude of prayers on my behalf. They bring me strength, courage, and comfort. I thank you for every thought and prayer you have uttered in my behalf. The journey continues and all will be well.