April 21

Hi all...just a quick update. I've been feeling better the past few days, which is good. I was getting a little discouraged. I have left the house every day to do something, even if just for 30 minutes, and that's been good. Today Brad and I worked in the backyard. I planted 6 flats of flowers. The yard is shaping up nicely. Brad and I both enjoy spending time out there. Friday I got on my bike for the first time since January. It felt good to be riding again although my behind was very sore. I only road 5 miles but that was my goal. I was actually surprised I could do the 5. I'm eating well and trying to gain 7 pounds over the next few weeks. I think it is certainly doable. I also hope to be able to ride 20 miles at a time within the next month. Not really much else going on. I do see my oncologist Monday and we will develop the next plan of action. Thanks again to everyone for the cards and emails. They mean a lot to me. Sheila

Update

Sorry for so long between posts. I finished radiation and chemotherapy treatments then had to go in the hospital. Seems my blood count was low and I was in need of hydration and fluids. I've been home several days now and am feeling better. I cannot wait until I feel "normal" again. I'm looking forward to eating and not wondering how the food will react in my stomach. I am also looking forward to drinking and enjoying a glass of wine...something that I haven't been able to do in several months. I am also ready to start entertaining again...something I have greatly missed.

I have a doctor's appointment in two weeks and so will find out about the next steps in the treatment process. I understand I may have the option for more chemo, but don't know for sure yet that is what I want to do. I will probably choose to have a pet scan then see if anything shows up.

Brad and I are headed to Florida (St. George's Island) in a couple of weeks. I am looking forward to walking on the beach and eating seafood.

That's the story for now. I'll report more when I know more.

Round Five

Well, 5 chemo sessions down and 1 to go! I really can not complain...all in all in hasn't been bad. The nausea has been well managed with drugs and the only side effect that's bothered me much has been the diahrea. I did not lose any weight last week and am holding steady. My plan is to return to work half-time the 2nd week of May and hopefully full-time by the 1st of June. My bike is in the basement on the spinner so I plan to get back on (starting today) and spin for 10 minutes each day. A friend has signed me up for a Diabetes ride on June 23rd. Sixty-two miles. Guess I'd better get busy riding! Also, we have a trip planned at the end of April to St. George's island (off Florida). Can't wait to put my toes in some warm sand.





There seems to be so much lately in the news about cancer. I admire Elizabeth Edwards and her decision to not let cancer dictate how she lives her life. She also said she was focusing less on how much time she has left and more on how she's living the time she has. An important lesson for every one of us.

This photo was taken at my Ph.D. graduation party in January...it was an extraordinary night.