I wrote my last blog after Art's first chemo treatment. It has been a rocky road to say the least in the three weeks following the first treatment. Art almost immediately caught a bad cold following the treatment which may have compounded some of the effects. In addition to extreme fatigue, Art experienced significant sores through his entire mouth and some nausea off and on. But, we are so grateful for the medicines they have developed to help combat the side effects of chemo. We know that these helpful medications were not always available and it could be so much worse. One of the frustrating things during the first chemo cycle was that the pain was not subsiding in his abdomen and even seemed to get worse at some points--we were tested with trying to keep our anxiety under control that the chemo was not working, and trying to be patient as we allowed the chemo to start doing it's job. I know Art echoed others of you who have gone through extended illnesses when he said, "I wonder if I'll ever feel good again."
Last blog, I also asked you to pray for my brother-in-law Jim and his wonderful family. Many of you know that Jim passed away soon after that. My sister (Cindi) and my niece (Cori) and nephew (Jim) were by his side. We were able to travel as a family to Tennessee to be there with my sister, her kids, my parents, my siblings, many of my nieces and nephews and so many more who have been a apart of my brother-in-law's life. We cried and laughed as we shared memories about this man who made such an impact on so many, and we celebrated his life together. It was a beautiful thing, and while it was a tough trip for Art because of his health, there is no way he would have missed it. Please continue to pray for their family.
In the last few days we have really felt encouraged. On Friday Art was able to receive his 2nd round of chemo. This was a huge answer to prayer. We were concerned with his cold that his white blood cell count would have been too low, but it was right where it should be. We were also thrilled to see his liver counts improving. That alone put a smile on our faces the rest of the day at University of Chicago. And, the doctors and nurses were glad to hear that Art has not had to be on as many pain killers. The pain in his liver was beginning to lessen. In fact, in these last couple of days, Art has even been able to lay off the Aleve. As I write this though, some effects are starting to rear their ugly heads again. But, it's so good to know that the chemo that is causing these effects is starting to do what it's supposed to. We hope that continues and we are grateful for a few better days!
While every day we wait to see what different effects or symptoms Art will experience, and every day we wonder what the outcome of this journey will be, we are blessed that every day we see God's incredible goodness in people and experiences surrounding us. It seems that some times we can get so wrapped up in the bad that's happening in the world. All you have to do is put on the news and it can be a little overwhelming as we wonder what is happening in this world? It's strange that something as horrible as cancer can open your eyes so wide to all the goodness in the world--true evidence of God's Kingdom at work! As Art and I walked through the University of Chicago Medical Center, meeting with different people for blood work, talking to receptionists, ordering and paying for some breakfast at the cafeteria, we said to each other, "Everyone seems so happy here." Even the janitor mopping the floor in the cafeteria was jovial and smiling. Maybe being exposed to so many people who are going through hardships brings out more compassion and joy, hoping in some way that their joy will be contagious to those who are hurting. I know it had that effect on us.
I've said this before, but we continue to be overwhelmed with the outpouring of love, prayers, and acts of kindness. In addition to heartfelt cards (almost every day it seems), wonderful and extremely helpful meals, encouraging texts and emails, helping to take really great care of our kids (and our dog) and provide rides, sharing of jokes to make us smile....... we have had some other amazing highlights like visits and meals with some of you, a celebration of our friend's 50th birthday, the gift of a prayer blanket with verses and notes of encouragement from many of you, an incredible evening at the Bulls game, and so many other special moments to brighten our days during difficult times. Our words cannot express the gratitude we feel. Art and I just look at each other and shake our heads in amazement at God's goodness being demonstrated by each of you. There are LOTS of people who live out, "What would Jesus do?"
We feel the prayers of the "Army For Art" and we ask that you continue to pray....
- That the chemo would be effective in removing the cancer
- That Art's pain and swelling in his abdomen would continue to decrease
- That the side effects of the chemo would be minimal
- That Art would be able to maintain a positive spirit through the treatment and that I can support him in that
- That we would be free from anxiety and learn patience
- That our parents would receive comfort and peace as they watch their children go through this.
- That Art, myself, Makenzie, Olivia and A.J. would feel a strong presence of the Holy Spirit and draw closer to Him
- That God's beautiful light would shine through us as we have been warmed by His beautiful light shining through others
- That our friends Mark and Chris would experience great healing through their cancer treatments
With much love,
Kris (on behalf of Art, Makenzie, Olivia and A.J.)
In my prayers always....sending love everyday. Its so hard that I can't see you as often as I want to. XO
ReplyDeleteYou have been on my mind and heart. We are praying for you and your entire family. Wish we lived closer and I could give you a hug.
ReplyDeleteLove ya!