17 May 2009: Progress

The first phase of my treatment -- seven weeks of radiation and chemotherapy -- is behind me. I can't say either was particularly pleasant, but the radiation was certainly the most difficult.
My doctor promises that that within the next two to three weeks, my brain still start working again and I will regain some energy. I will spend those weeks with my daughter Deborah, my son Warren, and their children.

I have scheduled an MRI on June 17. I get the results the next day. I obviously am hoping for a cancer-free report. I have to admit that I am nervous about the results of the MRI. But regardless of the results, I will take chemo one week a month until the end of the year.

I think the worst is behind me. I am optimistic that my reading comprehension, my memory, and my general understanding will gradually return. My physical condition also is improving slowly. Patience is not something I have much of, but I am learning that it can be developed.

So many friends have offered to drive me. Thank you, but I no longer need to impose on anyone. I can now get behind the wheel.

Because I can function about three hours a day, I am way behind in thank you notes, but I will eventually get there. Thanks again to all of you. I send you all my love.

Michele

3 May 2009: Progress

Seven weeks seemed interminable, but two weeks of treatment are now left, a period of time that seems manageable. I will be done with both the radiation and chemotherapy in mid-May and get an MRI in mid-June which I hope shows good results. Also in mid-June, I get back on chemotherapy only, this time for a week a month for six months. I am hoping that the side effects -- mostly extreme fatigue -- will not be as intense. I have regained my vision, but while I can read, I don't have the concentration or energy to handle more than newspapers or a magazine. I also have lost my hair -- a friend took me to buy some cute hats -- and my memory is pretty bad. If you call me, don't assume I remember our conversation. But overall, I feel better.

My son and daughter and their spouses were here last weekend for my son's birthday which was a lot of fun. This week, my twin cousins from Paris are coming for a quick visit.

As in weeks past, friends have been immensely helpful and supportive. I am trying to write thank you notes, but given my lack of concentration and exhuastion, the process is really slow. Please forgive the delay.

Thanks again. I will update this blog in two weeks when I bid a happy farewell to the radiation clinic.

Love, Michele