Chemo Therapy & Radiation

The time for chemo and radiation has arrived.  Gary's big surgery was six weeks ago and his recovery has gone well.  He lost about 22 pounds from all his procedures and surgeries so buying smaller pants was a must.  His appetite is slowly returning but eating smaller portions has become his norm.  Returning back to work last week, with a much lighter schedule, has lifted his spirits.  I appreciate Jared and the office girls keeping a close watch on him.
Today was his first combined radiation and chemo therapy.  The oral chemo, Xeloda, is taken morning and night.  The radiation takes about 15 minutes at the MSTI Center here at the new St. Luke's Hospital in Twin. These treatments are Monday through Friday each week for six weeks.  We were told last week that he would probably loose one of his kidneys due to the radiation but were told today the final plan eliminated that risk.  Fatigue and nausea will be the main side effects of this treatment.  Gary experienced some nausea this afternoon but the prescribed medication of Zofran seems to be doing its job.
We have been so blessed with great medical care and feel very optimistic about the future.  We are so grateful for you continued prayers and expressions of concern on our behalf.  Love to all of you!

"Looking Up!"

After meeting with the Chemo Oncologist this afternoon we are looking up to the many "tender mercies" we have thus been granted.  Dr. Symington is recommending the oral chemo, Xeloda, in combination with the 6 weeks of radiation.  The approval from the insurance company will allow Gary to forgo the port and the infusion of 5-FU.  We will meet with Dr. Sawyer, the Radiologist, this Thursday to finalize the treatment procedure. Treatments will start either July 15 or 22.  The radiation treatments will be Monday through Friday each week.  We also have an appointment in August with the Genetic Counselor to determine if further testing should be done for all our immediate family members.
We are so excited for this news.  Since we were expecting 6-9 months of treatments, just 6 weeks is sweet music to our ears.  The Doctor told us that he would not lose his hair and could possibly work part-time.  We both really liked Dr. Symington.  She was really fun to talk to and very upfront with information for us.  I think we both walked out of the St. Luke's MSTI wanting to skip and dance to the car.
Gary is feeling like life is truly "looking up!"
Again, "thank you" for all your prayers and positive thoughts.  Our hearts are full and our spirits lifted with all the things said and done in our behalf.  Our loving Heavenly Father has truly blessed us.