Tender Mercies

Marlin and I traveled to St. Louis on Monday afternoon for the follow-up appointment with Dr. Margenthaler, my surgeon. The appointment was Tuesday morning. She was pleased with the healing and removed the two drains I had - which gave me much relief. She told me that I could start chemotherapy as soon as a week and that my next follow-up appointment with her would be in six months. I have some post-op exercises for the left arm and shoulder to help prevent swelling (lymphedema) in that arm. Who knew I'd be exercising 3 times a day!
While in St. Louis, I made Marlin take me to some wig shops. I wanted to try some on and see what style would look best. We had some fun - I became a brunette and a red-head for a few minutes! I even tried on a silver-gray color. The shop had some funky ones - like the pink pageboy that Brittney wears - I didn't go for it. I actually look pretty good in strawberry-blonde - so look out for me as a red-head! I once had my hair colored a light red when Lindsay was in high school. I called her from the salon to come and see me and she nixed it - so I went back to blonde that very day. I think this time, Lindsay won't protest too much. Marlin says "it really makes your eyes blue". I never got real parental when it came to my kids' hair - after all, hair is temporary - and it should be a source of fun in this situation. You have to find humor in something! I also have a nice collection of turbans and hats, thanks to my friends and family. Hair loss begins 7-14 days after the first treatment, although there is some variation depending on the medication.
I saw Dr. River, oncologist, in Pittsburg, Wednesday, April 23rd to discuss beginning chemotherapy. He confirmed that he would follow the recommendations from the specialists in St. Louis, which relieved my anxiety a great deal. He was planning to discuss the medications again with Dr. Bose in St. Louis before he would give me a definite protocol. I will see Dr. River this afternoon to confirm the plan, however we did decide "C-day" is May 1.
I am doing well, still somewhat inpatient with my recovery. I get tired in the early evening, but I am sleeping well. I appreciate all the cards, calls, packages and prayers. I know that many have me in their thoughts and I am overwhelmed with emotion, gratefulness, and thanksgiving - to have so many friends and family supporting me.
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits; who forgives all your iniquities, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from destruction, who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies. Psalm 103: 2-4
Blessings and mercy to you -
Love, Ellen