Christmas Message

My blood counts were near normal on Monday, December 21, so I received chemotherapy - Avastin, Gemzar, Cisplatin. It takes about 2 hours. I saw the nurse practitioner, Hyla, as Dr. M. is in India visiting family for a few weeks. Hyla is a wealth of information and support. Side effects have been much better with the latest routine. The most bothersome is nosebleeds, although I had fewer this go round. I worked Tuesday and Wednesday morning in my footcare business. My energy level was good until this afternoon. I decided to make some adaptions to Christmas preparation this year. House decorations are much more simple, cookie baking has been limited (mostly because of my no sugar diet!), and I decided to nix sending Christmas cards - so if you usually get a card from my family - our greeting is no less sincere - Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
We will attend Christmas eve services at 9 pm and enjoy a light supper with our children afterward. Our tradition is brunch on Christmas morning after opening presents - and that will continue - then Lindsay and Aaron will go to his parents and Grant and Tosha will go to her parents for a dinner. Marlin and I will spend a quiet day at home.
Thanks to everyone for the cards, letters, flowers, goodie baskets, and most importantly - your prayers. I hope that you enjoy the season of Christmas and remember the reason for the season.
The magic message of Christmas is that God gave us so much more than we can possibly give back. Norman Vincent Peale
Blessings to you -
Love,
Ellen

By the Grace of God

After bidding my sister from Texas goodbye, Marlin drove me to Pittsburg to the Cancer Center. Treatment went well this week, on Monday, November 30. Blood counts were nearly perfect. Dr. M. changed the dosages of two drugs and changed cisplantin to carboplatin (less toxic) and the infusion only lasted 2.5 hours instead of 4. A better morning, for sure! I traveled to Topeka to work that afternoon. I am a little tired, but no nausea or other side effects. I actually did a little bit of Christmas shopping yesterday evening.
Thanksgiving was a special family time this year. All my siblings and some of their children were able to get together for a feast on Saturday. I think there were 25 people at my house! Phil & Joyce were great to host a weiner roast that evening on the farm, complete with hay bails for seats, sharpening our own roasting sticks and hot apple cider. The kids (and the big kids) had a great time. It brought back many memories of church and 4-H bon fires from our youth. Best of all was the time we spent together.
I have a list of tasks to complete at Washburn as the semester ends next week. Papers to grade and student conferences, final exams next week. Graduation is Friday and Saturday next week and I hope to get all my grades turned in so I don't have to return the next week. However, technology allows me to submit grades via computer online, so I am able to complete that task long distance, if I must.
I am looking forward to the weekend. Marlin and I are going to Wichita to see Aaron and Lindsay. We'll attend Friday night concert with Trace Adkins and Martina McBride. Grant and Tosha will come on Saturday for shopping and Aaron's 30th birthday party that evening. His birthday is December 7.
Rather than a Bible verse, I will share with you something from my friend Belinda, who sent it via email.

Happy moments, praise God;
Difficult moments, seek God;
Quiet moments, worship God;
Painful moments, trust God;
Every moment, thank God.

I continue to covet prayers and positive thoughts, positive energy, love and friendship from all of you reading this blog. By the grace of God, I am feeling well and blessed.
Blessings to you -
Love to you -
Ellen

November Review

I can hardly believe that November is nearly over and I have neglected updating my blog. I have been on a little "roller coaster" ride since my treatment on October 30th.
The week following the first round I was really fatigued, sleeping 12 hours a day (very unusual for me!) Dr. M. prescribed meds for the nausea which really helped, but I still felt queasy - unsure if my stomach was hungry or I was nauseated. I did go to work the next week, but I was so fatigued, that I cut the work time short and headed home for Girard and family support. My blood counts were okay the next week and I recieved Gemzar only on November 6th. Over that weekend, I caught a little virus and become hoarse and started coughing. Alot of coughing! I went to work again, kept to myself in my office (away from students) and was able to work that week. This week was my "off" week from chemo, but I felt pretty lousey because of the cold. During that week, I experienced nose bleeds 4 days in a row, a side effect of Avastin. I saw the physician on November 20th - still a little hoarse, but the cough had subsided. My blood counts were too low for chemo, which was to be the next round of all three medications. I returned to the cancer center on Monday, November 23, but my white blood cell count was still "borderline" low, and the Dr. recommended that I postpone chemo until Monday, November 30th. I was secure in the knowledge that this was meant to be - that the Lord had intervened so that I would have a good Thanksgiving holiday with my family.
My sister from Texas arrived on Monday to stay a week. My sister (and husband) from Glen Ellyn (Chicago) and my sister (and husband) from Billings along with my brother's family will be at my home for a Thanksgiving dinner on Saturday.
We will be traveling to Grand Lake (Oklahoma) on Thursday to have dinner with Marlin's family - his brother has a home at the lake. This has been a tradition for several years. Grant will be spending the day with Tosha's family in Kansas City. (Did you know we are planning a wedding for March 6?)
Lindsay and Aaron will be at the lake, too.
I have much for which to be thankful - family, friends, colleagues, a comfortable home, a country I love. Take a few minutes and ponder those loved ones and creature comforts that you have in your life. Thanks be to God!
Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good report -- I will think about such things. The things I have learned and received and heard and seen in those who walk with Christ, I will practice, and the God of peace will be with me. Philippians 4: 8-9.
Blessings to you -
Love to you -
Ellen

Beginning again

I had chemo on Friday, Oct. 30th in Pittsburg. Dr. M. had discussed my treatment with Dr. Bose in St. Louis and they agreed to change the plan a bit from what they originally told me. I will be getting all three drugs, Avastin, Gemzar and Cisplatin on day one - which takes about 4 hours, then the next week, I receive only one drug, Gemzar. Week three, I have no drugs, just do blood studies. The plan is to do this rotation three times and repeat the PET scan. Depending on the results, one drug may be changed. Since the cisplatin causes nausea and vomiting, I was prescribed several drugs to combat this - I take them by mouth for three days following treatment. I have been able to eat meals and have been pushing water to maintain hydration.
Need to update everyone on the diet I've been eating. My version of anti-cancer - no refined sugar, very little refined flour (eating whole grains), very little meat - chicken about 3 times a week and lots of vegetables and fruits. I have been on this diet since mid-August and do not feel deprived, although "no sugar" has been the most challenging. I have lost about 22 pounds and feel well. I haven't been walking as much as I probably need to, so I am sure if I had been exercising more, my weight loss would be more. Most people, me included, believe that chemo will cause you to looses weight. Because the anti-nausea meds are so much better than in years past, most people gain weight because they are able to eat, yet are fatigued and don't exercise.
I am experimenting more in the kitchen and using soy in some of my dishes. I get some funny looks from the family, but they have been supportive and do try the dishes.
My sister, Luanne, from Chicago, will be here today for a brief visit. I look forward to seeing her and catching up on the family.
Thank you again for continued prayers, cards, calls, visits. My support system is wonderful! Blessings to you -
Love to you -
Ellen

Staying in Today

The PET scan results were favorable - no evidence of disease in the bones, liver and lungs, but some lymph nodes in the chest remain "hot". I will begin chemotherapy on Oct. 30th at Mt. Carmel in Pittsburg. The rotation for chemo will be every week for three weeks, then one week off. The medications include Avastin, cisplatin and gemzar. After two rotations, I will get another PET scan to see how the drugs are working. I am hopeful that the chemo will decrease the cancer, as it did the first time. These three drugs are different from the drugs used after I was first diagnosed, often the cancer cells become resistant to drugs, so the protocol is to change the drugs and "surprise" the tumor cells.
I am feeling more hopeful this week. I am back to work in Topeka, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of each week during chemo. I am thankful for the miracle of computers and internet, as I am connected with my work, even when I am far away.
I am cherishing time with my family and friends and enjoying the fall colors. Today is a great day.
Please keep me and my family in your prayers.
Therefore, I will not be anxious for tomorrow, for tomorrow will care for itself. Matthew 6:34

Blessings to you -
Love to you!
Ellen

In the Valley

I have been traveling "the valley" this week, a little blue and discouraged. Physically, I feel well - the incision has healed and I have no remaining discomfort from the surgery. I saw Dr. Mathew, oncologist from Pittsburg, on Thursday. He has ordered another PET scan for this Thursday and discussed chemotherapy with me and Marlin. Depending on the results of the scan, I may start chemo October 30. The routine will be weekly treatments for three weeks, then one week off.
I return to work this week in Topeka, I'll be there only three days.
I was happy to have Lindsay home this weekend and our family spent some time together - always a good thing.
In God I have put my trust; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me? Psalm 56:11
Blessings to you.
Love -
Ellen

Contemplation

Marlin and I traveled to St. Louis on Tuesday for follow up with my surgeon. She was pleased with my healing and removed the 2 drains. I had nearly immediate relief from discomfort. Dr. M. shared with me the pathology report - 33 lymph nodes removed and 12 had cancer, the tumors are ER/PR and HER2neu negative, a bit different than last time. This cancer is termed "triple negative" and is considered aggressive. Treatment plans were discussed by the team in St. Louis and the oncologist will discuss the team's recommendations with my oncologist in Pittsburg. I see him next week.
I am praying and thinking about future treatments. I am less in a rush to begin this next round. I hate that cancer "takes over" your life. I am refusing to let it be the center of mine. I will lean on Jesus to help me through the next few months.
I appreciate my pastor's "thought for the day" that I'll share.
When you've exhausted all possibilities, remember this: You haven't.
Robert H. Schuller
Blessings to you -
Love,
Ellen

Every Season

I am feeling much better since the pleurisy diagnosis on Monday. Yesterday I seemed to be more sore, but today I feel much better and able to breath without pain.

I wanted to share a few of the beautiful fall bouquets I received after my surgery. I have really enjoyed the color and fragrance they lend to our home. I spent today doing alot of "self-care". I got my hair cut real short and colored (red, again), called to make appointments with the dentist, the optometrist, etc. I have been so focused on cancer doctors, that I have postponed other essential health services.

Today is St. Theresa's day (my Catholic friend tells me) and my sister (non-Catholic, but an on-fire Christian) sent me St. Theresa's prayer. St. Theresa was knowns for doing small things to show God's love. Take some time today to show God's love.

I will get a report from the tumor board in St. Louis tomorrow and I see Dr. Mathew, my Pittsburg oncologist, on October 15. I'm sure between the team at Barnes and Dr. Mathew, a new plan will be implemented. I'll keep you posted.

Thanks for the cards, calls- DELICIOUS food - and mostly your fervent prayers on my behalf.

There is a time for everything and everything on earth its special season. Ecclesiastes 3:1.

Blessings-

Love to you!

Ellen

Deep Breathing

I have been experiencing left-sided chest pain for over 24 hours. It really started to bother me yesterday - each time I tried to take a deep breath, I had sharp knife-like pains in my left upper chest, just under the clavicle (collar bone). By this morning, the pain had gotten worse and I was becoming very concerned. I asked Marlin to take me to the emergency department at the local hospital. I was sure it wasn't heart pain (I'm a nurse, remember, I know these things), but of course, all the cardiac tests had to be done to make sure it wasn't my heart. I had a chest x-ray, too. All my blood tests were "normal" and the ECG (heart tracing) was better than the last time I had one! The chest x-ray didn't show pneumonia or a collapsed lung (good thing), so by the process of elimination - and by my symptoms, it was decided I had pleurisy. Pleurisy is an inflammation of the lining of the lung, and each time you try to take a deep breath, the lining stretches and causes pain. So I must take pain pills and anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprophen) for about 5 days, until symptoms abate.
I am home - resting - and reading the pile of cards I got in today's mail.
Thank you all!
Then the Lord God took dust from the ground and formed a man from it. He breathed the breath of life into the man's nose and the man became a living person. Genesis 2:7

Love to you -
Ellen

God is in Control

Dear friends have reminded me - God is in control. The last couple of days provided several affirmations of that fact. Because another patient became ill and couldn't have surgery, I was able to have surgery 10 days earlier than expected.
I had a modified radical mastectomy with lymph node dissection on the right. I was at Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital, which is a smaller hospital - primarily a surgery center, probably about 50 beds. I had a private room and very excellent nursing care. My nurses were Mary and Elaine (in pre-op), Jeff (CRNA), Linda, Vickey and Andrea (post-op). One of the nursing assistants was applying to nursing school - Nancy, was from Kenya. She was a sweetheart! My procedure was to be at 12:15 on Wednesday, but the case before me was delayed, so I didn't go in until about 2 pm. I was back in my room by 5 pm. I was able to eat supper (mac & cheese) and take a short walk that evening. Marlin stayed until about 9 pm at the hospital, but slept at a hotel.
Dr. M. made rounds about 6:30 am today, examined me and gave me instructions to go home. I was able to leave the hospital by 1 pm and we got home about 6 pm Thursday. Amazing! Remember when mastectomy patients stayed at the hospital 10-14 days? Wow! I am home with two drains coming from the surgery site, but I don't really have alot of pain.
I received a lovely basket of fall flowers from friends at Washburn before I left the hospital. Thanks to Patty and Brenda for supplying a wonderful soup and pie supper for Marlin and me. I have received several cards and calls already. I appreciate the prayers and will ask for continuing prayers over the next few months, as I face another round of treatments. Dr. M. will call next week to let me know the tumor board's recommendation for the next step.
Blessings to you all -
Love,
Ellen

No More Waiting!

The surgeon's office called this afternoon. They had a cancellation and offered me the open spot - I took it - for Sept. 23 at 9:30 am. The surgery will be at Barne-Jewish West, which is on the west side of St. Louis, not downtown, as the main hospital. Marlin and I will travel Tuesday afternoon and stay at a hotel. Most likely the hospital stay will be overnight, then home on Thursday. I probably won't blog until I return home.
Keep me in your prayers and especially on Wednesday morning.
God bless my friends and family -
Love to you -
Ellen

Today's Blessings

Dr. M. called me Thursday evening to share with me the tumor board's recommendations. They are recommending more surgery, chemo and probably radiation. Everything, all over again. The decision was left to me about what type of surgery to have. There is no clear cut evidence of which will improve the outcome - whether to have just the lymph node removal, or a mastectomy. Marlin and I talked and I talked with the oncologist at Pittsburg and I've decided to have the mastectomy - in the hopes it will be more curative and I won't need additional surgery. I will travel to Barnes-Jewish in St. Louis to have the surgery. I am waiting for the surgeon's office to call with the details. I am planning to work this week in Topeka.
This morning, I served communion to shut-ins of our church, then attended worship. It is what I needed. My church family lifts me up in so many ways. I cannot imagine people going through challenges like I've faced and not have the prayers and kindnesses of church family.
I am truly blessed. One of the hymns today in worship was "Make Me a Blessing" - an old hymn that I learned as a child. It's message is simple and profound. "Make me a blessing, make me a blessing, out of my life - let Jesus shine. Make me a blessing, dear lord, I pray, make me a blessing to someone today."
Blessings to you -
Love to you -
Ellen

At the throne of grace

Marlin and I traveled to St. Louis on Tuesday to see my surgeon, Dr. M. I saw her in the afternoon, then had a supreme treat of having an extra view, extra pressure mammogram along with a sonogram of my right axilla (armpit). The sonogram was to see if the questionable lymph nodes could be viewed in the hopes of accessing them for a biopsy. The super-duper mammogram was to make sure that the cancer was not a "new" cancer in my other breast. Wednesday morning I had an MRI of my right breast - again to insure that the cancer wasn't in my breast. I need to explain how adventuresome this particular MRI was. The person having a breast MRI must lie on their abdomen on the table and insert their breasts through holes in the table, with arms stretched overhead and legs straight behind. Ok, can you picture the position?? Yes, superman in flight! So it was, indeed, an adventure - lasting about 40 minutes.
The lymph node biopsy was rather uneventful, except for the fact that there were 5 people (including me) in a room about the size of a decent closet, along with the sonogram machine; one physician, a medical student, a clinical fellow (who was a female medical resident) and the nurse. The fellow, who was female, actually did the needle poking - three times into my axilla. She did give me a little lidocaine numbing medicine prior to the procedure, so I got 4 needle sticks in the armpit. I have a little bruise, but otherwise, no problems.
Dr. M. called this morning with the results and as expected, the cell type is the same as my original cancer, so most likely it is metastasis. The MRI and mammogram were both okay.
The tumor board meets next Thursday evening to review my case and recommend a plan of action. Dr. M. will call me on Friday with the update.
I have been blessed with cards, phone calls, visits, emails, and friends telling me about the addition of my name to prayer chains, circles, and lists. I am at the throne of grace, seeking His guidance and healing touch.
Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16
Love to you -
Ellen

Extraction of Sweet Tooth

My surgeon called today from St. Louis. She reviewed the PET scan with a radiologist and compared the scan to ones I'd had in St. Louis last year. This radiologist detected more spots on the latest scan than the radiologist in Pittsburg. I have an appointment with the surgeon on Tuesday, Sept. 8 in the afternoon and she plans to do a biopsy on Wednesday morning. Results from pathology will determine the next step.
I am feeling physically very well. My vegetarian diet has not been hard to maintain - although omitting sugar has been the biggest struggle. Common knowledge is that cancer loves sugar and most are encouraged to cut way back on sweets, refined sugar and flour. (Although I did not hear this from any of my physicians!) My "sweet tooth" is genetic, I'm sure, as my dad and my paternal grandmother loved sweets, too. Two of my sisters have the same affliction. To curb the craving, I have sips of grape juice - high in anti-oxidants. Emotionally, I think I'm in disbelief. I was hopeful that I'd gotten through the worst, and I may have. I do think I'll be receiving more treatment of some kind. Just have to wait - and waiting is the hardest thing to do. I lean on Jesus and pray for healing.
For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand: it is I who say to you "Fear not, I will help you." Isaiah 41:13
Blessings to you,
Love,
Ellen

The Battle Continues - Round 2

The PET scan on August 20th revealed 4 little "hot spots" on my right side - not my original site of cancer. Dr. M believes these are four lymph nodes that are showing up now. The nodes are not in the breast or in the lung, but most likely in between muscle layers in my chest wall. Blood tests for tumor markers done the end of July also showed an elevation above normal. The PET scan has been sent to my surgeon in St. Louis and I am waiting her call - what to do next. I feel disappointed, yet thankful that tests exist to find abnormalities so small - smaller than a marble.
On the same day as the PET scan of my chest, a brain MRI was done. My brain looks good -no changes from the time of diagnosis.
I am full time teaching this fall and have good energy. I am walking 2 miles a day and eating primarily vegetarian in a concerted effort to conquer this disease. I am forever thankful for family and friends who express love and keep me in their prayers.
I remain hopeful, optimistic and comforted by faith.
Love to you -
Ellen

Faith, Hope and Love

Today was my last Herceptin (chemo) injection. Sixteen months from diagnosis to completing treatment. I am so thankful for all the prayers and kindnesses extended to me during the last 16 months. I know the path was made easier for me due to support from church, family and friends.
I will have scans and follow-up tests August 20th and a three-month check up in October. My prayers have been answered and I am so very thankful.
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace, as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13Blessings to you !!
Love,
Ellen

Pink Luncheon

On July 9, I attended the Horizon of Hope Pink Luncheon, hosted by Tami Longaberger, CEO and owner of Longaberger Basket Company in Ohio. The luncheon is held in honor of breast cancer survivors who are nominated by basket consultants all across the U.S. My sister, Carol, nominated me and I was selected to attend. (The lunch is free, I paid for travel.) About 170 women attended the lunch which was held in Tami's home, Eschman Meadows. The mansion is beautiful! One entire end of the house is a great hall, elegantly furnished, that functions as a meeting place for a variety of Longaberger events. The attendees gathered at the Longaberger Homestead, near Dresdin, and were carried by bus to the mansion. Several employees served as hostesses and guides once we arrived. The room was decorated in a spring theme, with eggs and birdhouses as centerpieces and, of course, pink tablecloths and napkins. Naturally, all the tableware was Longaberger. The Longaberger company has partnered with the American Cancer Society since 1995 to support breast cancer research. Two dollars from the sale of each Horizon of Hope basket goes to the ACS - which has raised about $14 million since 1995. Following the lunch, Tami provided an opportunity for each of the guests to speak to her, have a photo taken and get a basket authographed. This signature tradition is central to Longaberger's business philosophy - that each worker is proud of the work (really artistry) and signs the basket. The Longaberger logo, the basketweaver's initials and the date guarantee that the basket is genuine -hand made in the U.S.A.
Carol and I spent the rest of Thursday and Friday shopping at the Homestead and in Dresdin. It was really fun to stay in a B & B that was once Dave Longaberger's home (founder of the company). I also made some incredible friends - sisters, really, that share a similar story to me.
I will complete treatment on Monday, July 27. Dr. M. will schedule scans at the end of August to establish a new "normal" for me. I have been feeling very good and have experienced less foot problems in the last few weeks.
Marlin and I are planning a long weekend trip to San Antonio, Texas, at the end of July, to see my sister, Nora, who is hosting our sibling reunion this year.
I am continually blessed by the people in my life. I continue to covet your prayers and praise God for healing and health.
We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him. Romans 8:28
Love to you -
Ellen

Pink Door Boutique

I had a really good day on Tuesday. I got new lingerie, a new boob and had a great lunch with some friends. I have not found a comfortable bra since my surgery. Let's face it, bras are uncomfortable when one has two breasts - try fitting a bra for one breast and a wanna be breast. I found out about a store in Joplin, Missouri, that provides all kinds of products to women with 'special' needs - from maternity to mastectomy. The shop was really cute, with the clerks dressed in bright pink scrubs, and the range of products was phenomenal. If you are gift shopping for feminine gifts, I would recommend this store. It's in the Freeman's Women's Center on 32nd Street, just west of Freeman Hospital.
The bra fitter, Lisa, measured me and showed me over 40 different styles. She provided some good advice and I was able to find three different bras that fit. I also got a new lighter-weight and more realistic prosthesis (fake boob). Lisa was very helpful and I felt pampered. The customer service was great.
My friends and I went to Sandstone Gardens and shopped and ate a delicious lunch. I had never been to the gardens (really a huge garden/home interior store). It was overwhelming the amount of merchandise under one roof! It was fun shopping and NOT buying! Mostly, it was great being with my friends Faith and Bobbi.
I am feeling good - only 6 more Herceptin injections - 6 more weeks of treatment. Thank you for the prayers and support. Blessings to you -
Love to you -
Ellen

Another test passed with flying colors!

Today was a treatment day and a check-up day. All went well. Last Thursday, I had another MUGA scan to check my heart, remember the Herceptin is potentially damaging to the heart. Essentially, the scan showed no change from the last scan done in February. The heart ejection fraction was calculated at 57% (56% in February) - a normal finding. Blood tests were okay, to0. I have about 8 more weeks of Herceptin, then a bunch of scans and tests to create a new "normal" for me. These scans will be used to compare to future ones.
I have been feeling well. The school semester ended in mid-May with much activity. I am teaching in June online and will be in Topeka a few days this month to complete annual reports. I am trying hard to increase my physical activity, which I know will make me feel better, too.
My sister, Carol, nominated me for the Longaberger "Pink Luncheon" which honors breast cancer survivors. The luncheon is held at the home of Tami Longaberger, an owner of the company. It is in July, so Carol and I will make a trip to Dresdin, Ohio. I am very honored to be one of the selected attendees. I'll post pictures on a future blog. Oh, we are supposed to wear pink - do you think that will be an issue for me??? ha! Sounds like a good excuse to shop.
Hope your summer is going well - take time to enjoy the heat.
I am thankful for Natalie, one of my students, who honored me with a luminery at the Shawnee County Relay for Life. Prayers and positive thoughts keep me going - my prayer for you -
Lord Jesus,
You showed your love and compassion by the many miracles of healing that You worked.
I know that you care for and watch over all who are sick and who suffer so terribly.
Help them, dear Jesus, to feel your healing love.
Console those for whom a physical cure is not forthcoming.
Strengthen their faith and the faith of those who care for them.
Lord, help me, too, so that I will be strong of faith as well. Amen.

Blessings to you -
Ellen

My Famous Sister!

Here is my sister, Luanne with Bobby and Jamie Deen at the famous restaurant, Lady and Sons, in Savannah, Georgia.

Love you, Lu!

Ellen

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

How fast the spring season has come! Since my birthday, my life has been a whirlwind. I was fortunate to be able to travel to a nursing meeting in Hilton Head Island (it was a sacrifice, but I muddled through) for four days with a colleague from Washburn. The weather was very windy (and I'm not in Kansas anymore!) and cool. I did get to walk on the beach one day and did some shopping one afternoon. The best part was the yummy seafood. Since I flew into Savannah, I couldn't miss the opportunity to go to "Lady and Sons" - Paula Deen's restaurant! I had fried green tomatoes, collard greens and the most delicious chococlate cake ever! I didn't see Paula or her sons, but enjoyed the outing nevertheless. My sister, Luanne, ate there last week and got her photo taken with the boys! -darn!
Easter Sunday, I was happy to host a meal with my family and in-laws. It is always a fun time with my children around. I am so glad that my two kids like each other. There love for me and each other is a continuing blessing in my life.
Next week is final exam week and I am deep into grading papers. My very smart daughter tells me I shouldn't assign those papers if I didn't want to grade them, hummmm.
The end of April, I traveled to Canyon, Texas for a nursing school "inspection". I got to see the second largest canyon in the U.S. - beautiful in the late afternoon, full of color, just awesome. I also drove by "the Big Texan" restaurant, where if you eat the 72 ounce steak, you eat free. I wasn't that hungry.
I am feeling good. My feet still bother me and get sore when I have to stand for long periods, or walk alot. I am shoe shopping - for comfort, not style. I completed #40 Herceptin injection on Monday - only 12 more to go! I continue to covet your prayers and know that God is alive in me -
By this I know that thou favorest me, because mine enemy (cancer) doth not triumph over me. Psalm 41:11
Blessings to you!
Love -
Ellen

Happy Birthday!

I am 53 today. I have been blessed with family and friends sending greetings and gifts. I am truly appreciative of all the kindnesses extended to me. I continue to thank God for healing and pray that I may be His servant for many years to come.
Walk in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well with you. Jeremiah 7:23
Love to you -
Ellen

Which Anniversary??

I have passed the anniversary date of the breast cancer diagnosis - March 10, 2008 - and I am approaching the anniversary date of the mastectomy - April 10 - so I am "in between" as I write this entry. However, I am not "in between" in my recovery. I am doing so well.
Marlin and I traveled to St. Louis Tuesday for my "annual" checkup with the surgeon who did the mastectomy, Dr. M. I also got my first one-sided (!!!) mammogram. I was very surprised and pleased to find out that the radiologist reviews the mammogram and sends a report immediately to the surgeon. I waited about 25 minutes for the results - not hours, not days - minutes. Amazing! Dr. M. reviewed the results with me and Marlin - all clear. She also examined me and was very pleased with the healing of the incision. She discussed removing my port, when I no longer need it (still getting Herceptin weekly) and otherwise, I could return in a year for follow up. Very good report.
I give God praise and honor for bringing me through this year. I recently received an email from a friend with the poem about valleys of life bringing us closer to Him. I have had a deep valley this year! I have leaned on Jesus and heard his whisper so many times - just when I needed it. I am thankful for family, friends and prayers that have helped me through this valley.
When anxiety was great within me, Your consolation brought joy to my soul. Psalm 94:19
Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise. James 5:13
Happy Anniversary to me!

Love to you -
Ellen

February 1

January flew by and I neglected my blog! So sorry. I am back to work in Topeka full time this semester and teaching new classes, so more class prep for me! I also moved to a very small efficiency apartment, as my niece, Dana, moved to warmer climates, so I had to find another Topeka residence. My family helped with the move last Sunday, January 25 - on the coldest and windiest winter day, yet! What a wonderful supportive family I have! I am so blessed! My apartment is close to campus, but not so close I can walk - well, maybe if I were in better shape. It's about 2 miles.
I am feeling good. I get tired by the end of a long day and I know I need to increase my exercise to increase my stamina. I am getting Herceptin every Monday morning in Pittsburg and will continue this until July. The drug is given through my port and takes about 30 minutes. I don't take any pre-meds, so I don't get drowsy and can drive myself without any difficulties. Most weeks I am in Topeka Tuesday through Friday, however, a few Mondays, I teach in the afternoon, so have to get on the road quickly after my treatment is completed about 9:30 am.
My hair is back - about 1 inch long - and I've colored it. After chemo, most people have a change in hair texture or color. My hair didn't change texture - still pretty thin/fine - but WOW did it change color - GRAY!!!!! YUK - so I took my favorite red wig into the hair dresser and told her to "match it" - she did a great job and it looks pretty good. My hair has grown out and I go for a touch up next week.
So I hope you get to see the "new me" soon. I covet your prayers as I continue my healing journey!
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold all things have become new. 2 Corinthians 5:17
Love to you!
Ellen