Hi all,

Ian was able to have his chemo today and it has gone pretty well so far. This is the same combination of drugs we had the first week, so we are preparing to have to deal with some hard days, since that first week was pretty hard. Hopefully we know better how to deal with it this time. They did give Ian some extra preventive meds today. He's hoping to feel well enough to spend some time with friends tomorrow.

On a bit of a side note, I also had my annual MRI today. I have been tumor free for 9 years and things still look pretty good. However, the Dr. feels there is a small change that may indicate some tumor growth. Apparently this type of tumor often needs follow up treatment after a few years, but can be dealt with through surgery or chemo quite well. This was not the news I was expecting today. I am still symptom free and the Dr. says this is no emergency and we can take our time addressing it. I will see my surgeon in two months - planned so we can get through Ian's treatment first. I will also have another MRI in 6 months instead of my usual year. It is likely I will eventually have another surgery for a biopsy and to remove any growth that can be removed. Then there will be assessment on whether or not I need chemo. This was a pretty heavy blow today, but I know I will be okay and we will all get through this additional trial.

Although it is hard to count blessings at times like this, I am still grateful that the types of cancers Ian and I have are so treatable, that we have a community around us holding us up and that there are so many, many other blessings in our lives.

Thank you so much for ALL of your prayers for us, past present and future!