The Chronicles of Zejula

I know it's been a long time since I blogged, but I didn't have anything significant to report. Much of the month of May was spent waiting for insurance to approve this new oral chemo pill and then waiting for the "specialty" pharmacy to contact me and start delivering the package to my home. 

Finally, the package arrived on May 18. Whew!!! Since I was attending a workshop at church on that weekend, my oncologist allowed me to start on Monday. I have read online that many fellow ovarian cancer survivors that are taking Zejula, take it in the evening to avoid nausea. Well, I certainly wanted to avoid that!!! So, I actually started on Sunday evening, May 22 after dinner. I went on with my normal after dinner activities and went to bed. Suddenly, at approximately 4am, I was awakened with the most excruciating headache. The pain was intense! Being in such pain, I was only thinking that I couldn't take anything due to also being on blood thinner. So, I did the only thing I could think of ... pray!!! Finally, I fell back to sleep. Well, that was an interesting night. The information I received when they prescribed the parp inhibitor did mention headaches as a possible side effect. I would definitely be taking a nap during the day!

And so, I took the 3 pills again after dinner on Monday night. Watched some TV and went to bed. Again, approximately 4am, I am awakened with another headache. Not quite as intense, but annoying non the less. Again, prayer was my antidote and I soon fell back to sleep. Again, add nap to the list of things to do during the day. I advised my oncologist's office of the headaches and they advised that I could take Tylenol. Thank goodness.

On Tuesday evening I took the prescribed amount of pills and heading to my chair to watch some TV before heading to bed. Usually between 9:30pm and 10pm, the eyelids start to close and I know to either get up and go to bed or just fall asleep in the chair. The chair usually wins!!! However, this night would be different. At about 9:30pm, while watching the Phillies, I am somewhat jolted awake. This wasn't just a momentary thing. I was fully AWAKE!!! I saw the end of the game, watched the late news and even some late night tv. I finally decided I needed to try to go to bed and see if I could sleep. After about 2 hours of restless sleep, I finally sat up in bed. I read, played games, and watched tv. My thought in the morning. This is going to be a really long day!!! With only a short nap during the day, I kept busy hoping that I would be so tired that I'd sleep all night. 

Wrong!!! After only about 2-3 hours of sleep, I was again fully awake and unable to fall back to sleep. By my calculations, I had only about 5 hours of sleep in 48 hours. I could not go on like that. It reminded me of the sign at Animal Kingdom while waiting for a ride:

This is totally me! Except for the most active at night part. I need lots of sleep.

With this new, but not unheard of side effect, I called my oncologist's office and spoke with the nurse. After discussion, she suggested that I take the pills in the morning. So, as of Friday, May 27, I started taking the pills after breakfast. It seems like I'm much more awake during the day and sometimes can't even take a power nap. And my sleep overnight was much better, not great, but better. Thank the Lord!!!

Another thing that you need to do is have your blood drawn for 4 weeks in a row after you start taking Zejula. Oh goody goody!!! The reason for the blood tests apparently your hemoglobin, hemocrit, red blood count and platelets can drop quite significantly. If that were to happen, I might need a blood transfusion and/or a platelet transfusion or both. The blood test also tells them if you develop another cancer which is usually fatal. YIKES!!! As of the writing of this post, I have had my 4 blood draws and except for the 2nd one, my numbers are actually increasing. Praise the Lord!!!

The other necessity is a monthly visit with my oncologist. I had my first Zejula visit on Thursday, June 16. Everything was good except my CA-125 number which I was expecting to start going down actually doubled!!! My concern, which I stated to the doctor, was that the drug was not working. She advised that she would monitor the numbers and if necessary, order a CT scan in August. So, for now, stay the course.

Personally, I have been going through a Bible study in Romans using the First 5 app. I'm a little behind, but it's really good. I've been sewing/quilting on several projects. I help my Dad with his computer issues. I've had lunch with friends. And most importantly, I try to stay out of trouble. Sometimes I'm successful and sometimes ... well .......

As a Proverbs 31 Compel member, we are offered writing opportunities/challenges periodically through the year. The latest challenge began on June 1. It was to create a Bible study for their First 5 app on a selected passage in the Book of Ruth. When you sign-up, you are randomly given one of four passages. The passage I was assigned was Ruth 4:1-4. I have been diligently reading, researching, and praying. Yesterday, I sat down and wrote over 500 words on my passage. I'll be editing and editing until I submit it after July 1. 

In other news, I will be starting back to work, part-time, on June 29. I'll be back on the same team, doing the same job. Although I've loved not working and setting my own daily schedule, I knew that the longer I stayed away, the harder it would be to go back.

September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. During the past 2 years, I have virtually participated in The National Ovarian Cancer Coalition's (NOCC) Together in Teal Run/Walk. Many of you have generously donated to my cause. This year, I've taken a step of faith and formed my own team - Team Philippian 4:13. The Run/Walk is scheduled to take place on Saturday, September 10 at Neshaminy State Park in Bensalem, PA. I would love for you to be a part of my team and help me raise both awareness and funds to support the mission of NOCC. There is, I believe, a virtual option if you don't live in the Philadelphia area and would like to participate. Thank you in advance for either donating to my page or joining my team. Here is the link:

Team Philippians 4:13

Please let me know if it doesn't work and I'll send it to you privately.

As always, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers and encouragement.

I would not be where I am on this journey without you!!!

Prayer Requests:

Back to work - June 29 - pray that I would remember policies, procedures, and formats

Writing submission - July 1-8 - pray that my writing would be looked on favorably

Blood draw - Tuesday, July 12 - pray for lower CA-125 and that other numbers would be good

Doctor appointment - Thursday, July 14 - pray that I have another good appointment

Only by His Strength,

Sandy

The Next Step

I was going to have a cute video up with me singing "We Don't Talk About Chemo" to the tune of "We Don't Talk About Bruno" from Disney's "Encanto" BUT ... unfortunately, I am still talking about chemo, just in a different form. 

As I mentioned in my previous post, my oncologist, Dr. K, was taking my case to the tumor board to consult with the other oncologists at MDA. After discussion, it was determined that because I had so much chemotherapy over the past 2 years, they recommended I start on the parp inhibitor called Niraparib, also known as Zejula. So, last Friday, I met with my APN and Dr. K's nurse to sign the consent forms and get all the information regarding Zejula and all the side effects, etc. This is considered maintenance therapy or oral chemotherapy. As soon as it is approved by my insurance and they can get it to me, I will begin taking this and hope my body doesn't rebel too much!!!

The one thing with taking this drug is that for the first month or so, I will have to have my blood drawn every week and for the first month, I will have to see the doctor or APN once a month. The reason for the weekly blood draw is because this drug can make your platelet, hemoglobin, and hemocrit numbers drop significantly. If they drop too low, I may need a blood transfusion. There are also a variety of side effects. Oh goody, goody!!!

 

Throughout the ages, God has been and is faithful to those who believe in Him. In a devotional I read recently, the author wrote about how faithful God was to the Israelites who were wandering in the desert. Every day, God sent them manna in the morning and quail in the evening for their daily nourishment. He didn't give them a month's worth or a week's worth. It was a daily thing. He was faithful to provide just what they needed. Although the devotion made the correlation to His grace, which is equally true, I would like to think God is faithful to give us what we need every day. He knows me best and knows what I need on a daily basis. He knows my physical, spiritual, and mental needs. I just need to be open to His leading and follow Him. Just as God led the Israelites, so shall He lead me. 

My question to you is this ... Who are you following??? The world or the Lord??? The only truth we should be following is what is in His Word. As Christians, we can't have it both ways - one foot in the world and one foot with Christ. Satan makes the things of this world seem very appealing, but it becomes a slippery slope, and if you start down that path, it probably won't end well. Our only hope is in His unchanging, unfailing words found in the Bible. Our next step then, is to make sure we know what's in there, every day. It's our daily nourishment!!! Then we won't be tripped up when the world yells "This is true and right," but God says, "No, it's not."

I'll leave you with one of my favorite hymns sung by Carrie Underwood, featuring CeCe Winans, "Great is Thy Faithfulness." The setting is the historic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, TN. I love the lyrics, "Morning by morning new mercies I see, All I have needed Thy hand hath provided." I hope you can sing those words with me.

Prayer Requests:

* Blood draw - Thursday, May 12 - 11:30am

* New doctor appointment - Cardiologist - Tuesday, May 17 - 9:00am

* All the paperwork would go through in a timely manner

* I would tolerate this drug well and no crazy side effects

Your prayers, encouragement, and good thoughts mean the world to me!!! May the Lord bless you abundantly!!! 😊

Only by His Strength,

Sandy

Circling

If you've traveled by plane, you've probably experienced the inevitable delayed landing. The pilot circles the surrounding area until the tower gives your plane permission to land or you run out of fuel (hopefully not)!!! I remember one time when my sister and I were traveling to London and we had to circle for what seemed like forever. The fun thing was we got to watch where we were on the screen in the seat in front of us. Finally, we landed and our vacation could begin.

Well, such is my life. I'm circling. Waiting. Wondering. 

My follow-up oncologist appointment was on Thursday, April 7. I had read my CT scan report and in my opinion, it looked good. I had also received my blood test results and my CA-125 only went down 3 points. Not what I was hoping for, but .... I kept praying! The doctor came in and we discussed the CT scan & the blood test results. She was mostly happy with the CT scan results and she didn't really emphasize the CA-125 results. Her conclusion was that she wanted to bring my case to the "tumor board" in 2 weeks. She indicated that the decision could go 3 ways -- 3 more rounds of chemo, hormone therapy, or start on a PARP inhibitor. PARP inhibitors are a type of cancer drug. PARP stands for poly adenosine diphosphate-ribose polymerase, a type of enzyme that helps repair DNA damage in cells. PARP inhibitors work by preventing cancer cells from repairing, allowing them to die. These drugs are a type of targeted therapy. They target cancer cells and mostly avoid affecting healthy cells. I really didn't get a feel as to how she felt, but I did let her know that I really did not want to do more chemo!!!

I love these verses from Isaiah 40, verses 28-31:

28 

"Have you not known? Have you not heard?

The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth.

He does not faint or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable.

He gives power to the faint, and to him who has no might he increases strength.

Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint."

Waiting is a part of life. We wait in lines. We wait in traffic. We wait for our favorite show to start a new season.  We wait at restaurants for our food to be served. We wait for a phone call. We wait for test results. We wait to see a doctor. It seems like we spend a lot of time waiting, but scripture reminds us that how we wait is important. If while we wait, we spend that time worrying, doubting and fearful. We'll end up with a bunch of negativity. BUT, if we wait for the Lord and focus on Him, we will experience, joy, peace and contentment. We may even run!!! And I would certainly love not to be weary all the time. 

In looking for another song, I came across this song by The Afters aptly titled "I Will Fear No More." Pay attention to the lyrics it really hit me that this is where I am right now. I pray that you will also "fear no more!"

Prayer Request:

Please keep me in your prayers as I wait for the doctor to call in a couple of weeks and that I will keep my focus on the Lord in all things.

Only by His strength,

Sandy

Into the Unknown

If you've watched any Disney movies in the past couple of years, you'll remember the popular sequel to Frozen ... Frozen 2. In the movie, Queen Elsa and her sister Anna are ruling over Arendelle when Elsa starts hearing a voice calling to her. She sings the iconic "Into the Unknown" song, reawakens the "spirits," and then Elsa, Anna, Kristoff, Sven, and Olaf set off to find the "unknown" voice and why it is calling to her. After finding the enchanted forest and learning new information about the death of her parents, Elsa takes off alone to follow the unknown voice. You'll have to watch the movie to find out the rest of the story. 

Fortunately, there isn't much "unknown" when you're on your sixth date with Mr. Chemo. After my follow-up appointment on Tuesday, where they ordered another CT scan and advised my numbers were going in the right direction, I asked a few questions. Of course, without definite details, the answers were somewhat hypothetical. Because my CA-125 only dropped from 76 to 67, I asked what if my CA-125 didn't get back to a "normal" level of 35? I was advised that it would probably depend more on what the CT scan showed than the actual CA-125 number. Armed with that information, I head up to the infusion floor for what was to be a long day hooked up to Mr. Chemo. After my usual napping and eating lunch, I worked on some business stuff for a while. Towards the end of my infusion, there was some commotion on the other side of the partition from where I was seated. The girl in the chair was crying out in agony. I don't know what was happening to her body with the treatment, but I could tell she was writhing in pain and that she was scared. There were several nurses with her trying to calm her down so they could remove her IV. They were also trying to reach her doctor so they could prescribe something to reduce the pain. At that point, I just stopped whatever I was doing and bowed my head and prayed. After what seemed like a long time, the doctor actually arrived, called in some meds, and helped calm everything down. By the time I was unhooked and ready to leave, the girl was much calmer, and I thanked the Lord for answering my prayers.

On Wednesday, I had the same nurse as the girl from the night before. Without giving personal information, she let me know that the girl was much improved by the time she left on Tuesday night. Because I arrived early on Wednesday, I was taken earlier which was great because my nurse advised that they were going to slow down my infusion because I always seemed to have a reaction. So, after all the pre-meds, etc., I took a nap, ate my lunch, and watched a movie. Soon it was time to say good-bye to Mr. Chemo, but since my regular ride could not be there for a couple of hours, I texted my fabulous neighbor to see if she could come and get me. Thankfully, she was available and soon I was on my way home!!! Thank you SC!!!

So, as I write this post, I am waiting on the unknown. The dictionary defines unknown as not within the range of one's knowledge, experience, or understanding; strange; unfamiliar. I don't know what the CT scan will reveal. I don't know what my blood work numbers will be. I don't know what the doctor will say. I don't know how that will impact my life in the short term. 

What I do know is the following:

Noah didn't know how to build an ark, but God knew.

Moses didn't know how to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, but God knew.

Esther didn't know that requesting an audience with the king would save her people, but God knew.

Joseph didn't know that being sold into slavery would someday save his family, but God knew.

Daniel didn't know that eating his veggies would save him from lions, but God knew.

David didn't know that being a shepherd would one day make him a king, but God knew.

Mary didn't know that her firstborn son would save the world, but God knew.

The disciples didn't know that following Jesus would lead to new life, but God knew.

Zacchaeus didn't know his life would change when he climbed a tree, but God knew.

Saul didn't know that encountering a light on a road would change his name and lead him to the life of an itinerant preacher, but God knew.

We all have unknowns in our lives - relationships, employment, health, financial, and the list goes on. It's how we deal with the unknowns that make all the difference. Do you withdraw into fear and anger or do you dig deep and trust in God? I love this quote by Corrie ten Boom, "Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God." It goes hand in hand with the quote, "I don't know what the future holds, but I know who holds the future."

As the days pass, I sometimes find myself worried/anxious about the future, but then I remember .... God knows.

This is a popular song on Christian radio. It's by a sibling group called CAIN. And yes, that's their last name. It's a fun video with bright colors and deep meaning. Enjoy!!!

Prayer Requests:

** Wednesday, March 30 - 9:30am ET - CT scan

    - Please pray for a very clear scan. The results of this test may determine if I am done with chemo or I need more rounds.

** Tuesday, April 5 - 7:30am ET - Blood draw

    - Please pray for a lower CA-125

** Thursday, April 7 - 9:45am ET - Doctor appointment

    - Please pray for a good report & wisdom for any decisions that need to be made.

** Please continue to pray for all the organizations, religious & national, that are working with the Ukrainian refugees in Europe. Pray also for the millions of refugees that are heading into the unknown. **

Only by His Strength,

Sandy

Just a Little Pixie Dust

As soon as the final seconds tick down in the Super Bowl, the MVP or the quarterback of the winning team gets asked a very important question phrased something like, "Hey, you just won the Super Bowl. What are you going to do?" With a silly grin on his face, the player responds, "I'm going to Disneyland/Disney World." This tradition has been going on since 1987 and will probably continue for many, many years. In fact, this year's winner, The Los Angeles Rams had several team members in Disneyland the very next day. They rode on a float with Mickey and celebrated their hard-fought win. 

Well, my sister and I didn't ride on a float, but on February 3rd, after my 4th chemo, we flew to Orlando for a few days of sun & fun with Mickey & friends at Walt Disney World. We had lunch with a friend from high school and his wife. We had a great time catching up!!! 

However, the main purpose of our trip was to attend my uncle's memorial service near Daytona on Saturday and visit with my cousins, most of whom I had not seen in probably 10 years. It was a nice service remembering my uncle who served the Lord in several churches for his entire life adult life. Here I am with my sister and my cousins.

On Friday, my sister and I visited Disney's Animal Kingdom. We started off with breakfast at Animal Kingdom Lodge's Boma restaurant which has a large buffet of yumminess. Then it was on to Animal Kingdom. It was a very warm day and although we didn't see as much as we wanted, we enjoyed the day and seeing the animals. After walking a little over 6 miles, we had pizza at the hotel and then collapsed in our room while watching the Olympics.

Sunday's park was EPCOT. Knowing how big the park is and how much we wanted to do AND for our physical well-being, we both rented scooters to "zip" around the park. It was a cool, cloudy day, but we had fun. We had dinner at the nice Italian restaurant and stayed until after the evening show, "Harmonious" on the lake. 

It was Magic Kingdom Monday for us. After renting scooters again, we waited in line at the Main Street Bakery for these enormous Mickey cinnamon buns. They were so good!!! Once we got familiar with where everything was, we set off to do our favorite rides and attractions. But we had early dinner reservations at Beast castle!!! Squeal!!! We were seated in the "main ballroom", and it looked just like the movie. Once our order was taken, they announced that Beast had heard we arrived and would be coming out to greet us shortly and to please stay in our seats. Sure enough, Beast arrived and waved and posed for pictures. Although fairly pricey, we thought the appetizer, prime rib, sides, and dessert was worth it. After dinner, we rode our favorite rides - The Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean, and of course, It's a Small World. At the end of the night, the new "Enchantment" show on Main Street was fabulous. We didn't have a great spot to watch, but it was a great ending to a great day!!!

Since we were flying home Tuesday night, we were going to spend our day at Hollywood Studios. Between the line for the Skyliner and the weather forecast, we did a last-minute pivot and decided to do some shopping at Disney Springs. We were sure glad we made that choice because while we were there, we put our new ponchos to good use. Then it was back to the airport for our evening flight home. We arrived at the airport so early, that we couldn't even check-in!!! After wasting some time and grabbing some food, we checked in and found our way to the gate. 

Three days after returning to the real world, I had my blood drawn to see where my numbers were for my upcoming date with Mr. Chemo. Thankfully, my CA-125 dropped to 76. Although I was anticipating a lower number, it was lower and that was a good thing!!! My platelets were good, too. So, onward to chemo #5!!! WooHoo!!! 

Thursday was my follow-up appointment where I was deemed "normal." I was shocked, but for chemo purposes my numbers were all normal and I was sent off I went to spend the next 2 days sitting in a chair while toxic chemicals race through my body to kill the evil cancer cells. As usual, I spent my time in the chair, napping, eating, and adding products to our business website.

As I write this post, Ukraine's people are fiercely defending their homeland against Russian invaders. I saw a Facebook post from Michael W. Smith, a Christian recording artist. This is part of his post:

"I’ve been around the world many times, including places like Ukraine, Latvia, Estonia… where the foul stench of communism was once thick in the air.

And the people who once lived under it could not have been happier to finally be FREE. It’s like the weather itself was different: once gray, dreary skies gave way to crystal clear blue skies and warm sun.

I’m sickened to watch helplessly as precious human lives are once again dragged into conflict they don’t want, by power-hungry tyrants who want to return to evil ideologies and oppression. And it’s happening all over the world - not just Ukraine.

People were meant for freedom. Once they taste it, they don’t want to go back. We all just want to live our lives in peace.

Praying for peace and sanity to prevail, and for the precious lives caught in the crossfire. God, have mercy."

I love that MWS spoke of being FREE. As Americans, we understand freedom. We fought the Revolutionary War over 200 years ago to declare our freedom from England. And today, we have many freedoms that other countries do not have. 

But there is another freedom that is necessary to live a full and abundant life. That freedom can only be found in Jesus Christ. Through his death on a cross, and his victory over death, we can be free from the chains that hold us to the sin & death of this world. It states quite simply in the Scriptures in Acts 16:31, "And they said, 'Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.'" 

I don't know about you, but as this Micah Taylor song states, I'm "Walking Free." The lyrics of the second verse are so good and so me!!! I hope you too can say that you are walking with Jesus!!!

Prayer Requests:

Friday, March 11 - Blood draw approx. 7:30am ET - Pray for lower CA-125 and good platelet numbers.

Tuesday, March 15 - Follow-up appointment 9:00am ET, followed by Chemo #6 / Day 1

Wednesday, March 16 - Chemo #6 / Day 2

Pray for The Williams family from my church who have been missionaries serving in Ukraine. They are currently safe and serving the Lord by serving the refugees who have fled. I cry & cry out to God every time I read one of their Facebook posts. Here is a part of one:

"I don’t have words to describe the depth of sorrow and confusion and hell on earth we are experiencing - living in Czech not home while half our team and church are still in UA, watching Ukraine’s beauty on fire, people are dying and it is not stopping, and the awful complexities of running a chaotic humanitarian aid group on the fly in the midst of it all.

Yet I choose to turn to Our God who sees, knows, and who included in His Word the right to wrestle with pain and worship Him at the same time. Through the pain, His presence doesn’t leave and the Bible is my true source of peace in the nightmare. I wake in the middle of the night and recite Scripture these days. Friends, I beg you to repent, believe, and turn to follow Jesus the Savior because tomorrow is NOT a guarantee! He sees what we can’t. And He is good and loving and just. I will sing of the goodness of God."

Only by His Strength,

Sandy

PS - I think this world needs some pixie dust and a whole lot of PRAYER!!! 

Platelets, Pomegranates, and Prayer

 Yes, this blog post is brought to you by the letter "P."

With the stomach bug in my rear view mirror, I began eating "normally" and enjoying every bite. In fact, I probably enjoyed it too much!!! However, I think I was able to keep a few pounds off the scale. Hooray! 

Early on Friday morning, January 14, I headed to LabCorp for my blood draw. I could tell the nice girl who walked into the cubicle was a newer employee. After verifying my information, she attempted to find the vein in my right elbow. She thought she found it, but she went to get the needle, etc. and came back she couldn't find it again. She went to do my hand, but had some trouble and called for back-up. I'm so thankful that the back-up person was able to help her get the needle where it belongs and finish my blood draw. It took a lot longer than I expected. I then drove my sister to work in Philly and then came home and had my breakfast. 

On Saturday morning, I received the results on my portal. To say that I was shocked and worried would be an understatement. My platelet count was 75!!! In order to receive chemotherapy, your platelet count needs to be over 100!!! I put out an urgent prayer request on my personal Facebook page and in my Christian ovarian cancer group. I was truly blown away with so many comments to pray for my pesky platelets. One of the girls in my cancer group commented that a nurse told her to drink pomegranate juice, milk, eat avocados, and red grapes. I also read online to eat meat, poultry, and pork, plus tomatoes, potatoes, egg yolks, cereal, leafy greens, peanuts, and a few other things. I went to the market and found pomegranate juice and bought red grapes. The juice is very tasty and I love red grapes. I also contacted the oncologist nurse and she didn't seem too concerned. She just advised that I should go to get my blood drawn again on Thursday morning before my doctor appointment and hopefully by the time my appointment would be over, we'd have the results and know if I could continue with chemo for the day. 

This guy was hanging in the cubicle with my favorite phlebotomist ... Marge. His name is Vinny.

Well….. I got ready to have my exam. In comes the nurse, a medical student who wasn’t introduced, and Courtney, a Gyn Oncology Fellow who is shadowing Dr. K. She answered all my CT scan questions and said everything on the CT scan looked good. They left for a few moments and then they all came back with the doctor. She checked me over while I provided comic relief. In fact, I was wearing my new Faithlet bracelet and Courtney asked what it was. I was happy to share that it read “I CAN DO ALL  THINGS.” I told them that this is my verse and that it ends with “THROUGH CHRIST WHO STRENGTHS ME.” During the exam, I did express that I was concerned about being short of breath quite often. Now, I know I’m horribly out of shape, but it feels different. Therefore, the doctor ordered both and EKG and an Echocardiogram. She definitely didn’t want the chemo to be successful and then me have heart problems. And considering I have a bit of a family history, I don’t want to take any chances.

At this point, the nurse had slipped out, she came back with a fabulous announcement. My platelets were …. Drum roll please ………….

235!!!!!!!!!!!

I think my jaw hit the floor. When I picked it up off the floor, I do know is that I shouted …. “PRAISE THE LORD!!!!!” I was so shocked that I had to double check the number again. She really said … 235!!!! With that everyone left the exam room and I did a little happy dance!!! I texted my sister and a couple of friends with the great news and headed up to the infusion floor. The picture below is after I was hooked up to Mr. Chemo. And by the way, my CA-125 is down to 85!!! And that's another "P" ... Praise!!!

Prayer. It’s this amazing conversation with the God of the Universe. The God who created EVERYTHING — from the smallest micro-organism that might not even be discovered yet, to each and every one of you reading this, to the baby in the womb, to the centenarian in the nursing home, to our entire universe, and to every animal, bird, reptile, and invertebrate — has a desire to have a personal relationship with you & me. He really does. So many times, we think of prayer as a last resort. A cry for help. When, in fact, He is interested in your daily life. The highs and the lows. The times when we question everything and the times we are just numb to everything. There are so many verses in Scripture that show that He cares about every detail and how we should pray. Just Google verses about prayer and you'll get over 2 million results. Some of my favorite verses on prayer are as follows, but there are so many:

Matthew 21:22 - "And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith."

Romans 12:12 - "Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer."

Philippians 4:6 - "...do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God."

James 5:13a - " Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray..."

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 - "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."

Enjoy this song from Santus Real titled "Pray." It's been out for quite a while, but it's a good reminder of how we need to pray.

Prayer Requests:

Tuesday, February 1 - EKG & Echocardiagram - approximately 2pm ET

Friday, February 11 - Blood work - 7:30am ET - Lower CA-125 & good platelet number

Monday, February 14 - Doctor appointment with my Hematology doctor - 10:20am ET

Thursday, February 17 - Follow-up appointment with APN - 9am ET followed by Chemo #5 / Day 1 (if numbers are good) - Pray for no reactions

Friday, February 18 - Chemo #5 / Day 2 - start approx. 10am - Pray for no reactions

Other notes of interest:

I entered another Proverbs 31 writing challenge. I won't know if my devotional was accepted until sometime in March. 

*** Save the Date *** -- For those of you in the Philly area, the NOCC Together in Teal Run/Walk is scheduled to be in person this year on September 10. I'm hoping to form a team to run/walk and raise money to find a cure!!! If you're interested in participating on my team, even if you live somewhere outside of the Philly area, let me know in the comments below or send me a Facebook message.

Thanks again for all your encouragement, hugs, but especially, your PRAYERS!!!!!

Only by His strength,

Sandy

Halftime

The time clock clicks down .... 3. 2. 1. 0. The players leave the field and head to the locker room to hear from their coach regarding the game so far.

Here I am again, with 3 rounds of chemo down & (hopefully) only 3 to go. 

Strike up the band. It's Chemo Halftime!!!

The weeks between round 2 & round 3 went quickly as they usually do when approaching the Christmas holiday. Bible Study finished. Our church had a Christmas party with games, cookie decorating, singing, a story for the kids, and a devotional for teens and adults. I had lunch with friends. And then it was time to pack for our trip to Georgia to see our "family" for Christmas. I had my blood drawn the morning we flew. The flight down was uneventful and I got to watch one of my favorite Christmas movies, "Elf." Our family picked us up and we went to dinner at another family member's home. It was fun seeing them and seeing how much the kids had grown, but we were all tired from a busy day, so we headed home, found our rooms, and said good night.

The next day was a beautiful, sunny day. A bit cool for Georgia standards, but a least the sun was shining AND it was Tea Party Day for four lovely ladies and one 4-year-old princess!!! We had a lovely time eating little sandwiches, scones, desserts, and drinking ourselves silly with different flavors of tea. Our little princess even danced a bit. Here are some pictures from our party:

The following day, we were just going to bum around, maybe go to a movie, but that all changed when Dad got sick. We think he picked up a 24 hour stomach bug. So between my sister and me, we took care of him throughout the day. Finally, on Christmas Eve, he started feeling better and could keep down food. We stayed home from their church and watched our home church on YouTube and had a late lunch. Later, that afternoon, I was feeling tired, so I went up to my room to take a nap. When I woke up, I really wasn't feeling great and guess what .... now I had the stomach bug. YUCK!!!! I was so thankful that my room had a private bathroom! I think I wore a path in the carpet between the bed and the bathroom. Finally, about 1 am Christmas morning, I was finally done and I crawled back in bed and slept. When I finally dragged myself out of bed and threw some sweats on, it was after noon!!! I drank some of the Pedialyte that we got for Dad, had a banana and a piece of toast. Of course, we do things as a family, so, my sister got the bug overnight. We did, however, have a very nice Christmas dinner, just without my sister.

Again, on Sunday, we watched our home church service in NJ and our hosts actually went to their church's service. The family from our first night came back over for some fun and pizza dinner. The kids had fun with a Lego train that actually went around on the track. In fact, the little boy thought it was fun to see how fast the train would go before it derailed!!! LOL!!!

Monday came too soon and it was time to repack everything and go back to the airport to fly home. Although our flight was delayed, we were so glad that Southwest was not one of the airlines that was cancelling many flights. Thank you Lord!!! We got home after waiting in the covered parking for a rainstorm to pass, getting dinner, and stopping at Wawa for milk, etc. After eating dinner, we dragged the suitcases in from the car and went to bed. Because you see, my sister had to go to work the following day and I had to see the APN & start the next round of chemo!!!

After getting my lunch & stuff ready to go, my sister drove me to MDA for my long day in the chair. After a long wait for the APN, we went over the numbers, etc. and all looked good. My CA-125 dropped from 138 to 108. Not as big a drop as the first time, but I'll take it!!! My platelets were also good, so ... off to the Infusion floor. The only extra thing is that I will need to have a CT scan before my next appointment and chemo.

With all the travel and sickness, as soon as I was hooked up, it was off to slumberland. Upon waking and having lunch, I got busy doing "stuff" and trying to occupy my time until I was disconnected and I could go home. Although, since I return the following day, they kept access to my port so it is easier the next day. I really appreciate this!!! My sister picked me up, took me home, we had dinner, and I went to bed. The next morning, a good friend took me back to MDA for day 2. I was lead to my chair and a new nurse - Janine, AND I did not have a window seat! She got me hooked up and guess what, I took another snooze. Thankfully, no problems or weird reactions, just boredom. I did however, finally address my Christmas cards to the girls in my ovarian cancer group on Facebook. As I was address the last one, the last of my treatment sounded and I texted my sister and she came and picked me up. I thank God for 2 uneventful days.

Usually, on the slug days following chemo, I have some energy, but I just had nothing. The tank was empty. Since my stomach was still not 100%, I ate bland foods and drank plenty of water to "flush out" my system. I just felt blah. Nothing I ate seemed to stay in me. I felt weaker and weaker. Finally, I contacted the nurses at MDA and explained my situation and asked if I should take Imodium. They said I could take it and to drink Pedialyte. After several doses, my body seemed to get the idea that food was good for me and I started feeling like my old self - several pounds lighter - but feeling good. 

During my slug days, I watched a LOT of college football bowl games. I got to do a LOT of thinking about my life while I drifted in and out of naps. And just like the team heads back to the locker room in the stadium, I headed to the locker room of my mind with my coach, Jesus. I don't think He made any major changes to my life plan, just a few tweaks. I still have a long way to go, but my goal is heaven and I'm following after Him. Have you had a half-time with the Savior? What would He tell you? Do you need to make some tweaks to your life - spiritual, physical, or mental? It's never too late to hit the locker room with Jesus!!!

This is the song that was playing on my Apple Music Worship Now channel when I finished writing. This kind of sums up my feelings. It's "Give Me Jesus" by UPPERROOM. Hit play, sit back and worship for a little over 8 minutes. You'll feel a LOT better!!! I promise!!!

Prayer Requests:

Wednesday, January 12 - CT Scan - 1:00pm ET - pray that there are no signs of cancer

Friday, January 14 - Blood draw - 7:30am ET - pray for lower CA125 and good platelet numbers.

Thursday, January 20 - Doctor appointment & Chemo #4 / Day 1 - pray for good report from doctor and no side effects while getting chemo - also pray for good weather

Friday, January 21 - Chemo #4 / Day 2 - pray for good day getting chemo and no side effects

Thanks for all your prayers & encouragement on this journey!!!

Only by His Strength,

Sandy