Just when we think we have plans in place . . .

Plans are made. Plans change. In Proverbs 16:9, the Bible says:

“We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.”

The truth of that in regard to my health care became apparent this week when both my blood work and my CT scan showed continued progression of disease despite four rounds of chemotherapy. I met with Dr. Robinson and his PA yesterday, and it was decided that there is no valid reason to proceed with chemotherapy as it is not having the desired palliative effect.

What’s next? We are not yet certain. A number of options have been discussed. I will have a telehealth visit with Dr. Rossi on Monday and another appointment with Dr. Robinson on Thursday, June 25. I hope to have a plan in place by this time next week.

I recently did a genetic profile with the Target Cancer Foundation’s TRACK study, and we will likely choose one of the options they recommended. Dr. Robinson is willing to try an option that he has not used for GCT before. I appreciate both his compassion and willingness to think outside the box.

I love this quote, and I want it to define how I live in the days ahead:

“The function of man is to live, not to exist. I shall not waste my days in trying to prolong them. I shall use my time.”

— Jack London

Thank you to all of you who continue to pray and reach out to me. I know the prayers of the saints are what sustain me day by day and give me this deep peace that even I don’t comprehend.

Tomorrow, June 8, is Round 4.

To say I'm dreading tomorrow is an understatement. I already feel tired, drained. I know what tomorrow will look like, and I know how I will most likely feel the rest of this week, maybe even into next week. It’s looming.

We got in late last night from attending a wedding in Florida. I did not feel like doing anything this morning. But I got up, put on my shoes, and went for a walk around the neighborhood. There was no way I could possibly run. I don't have the energy. But I can still walk. And I remembered these wise words:

“If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.” Martin Luther King, Jr.

And that's what I plan to do. Keep moving forward.

Chemo Round 3. Day 4.

Today was better overall, and I'm hopeful tomorrow will be even better

Today's low. My hair is shedding heavily.

Today's high? Time with Clara.

It's a new week

Thank you for all the prayers and support last week. My next infusion date is April 6.

I am feeling like myself again and planning to enjoy this down time before Round 2.

Today was my 2nd post-chemo shampoo. So far, so good.