Annaleisa's Recovery

Scan Season

2010-01-23T10:55:00.002-06:00

I've successfully made it through another scan season. I think the bone density scan is my favorite. You don't have to drink anything nasty, get poked with horrible needles, go without that first cup of coffee, fast 6-8 hours beforehand, or lie perfectly still for an hour before it begins. Who ever thought I'd become a scan connoisseur? I've now become a regular at the hospital registration desk. The employees all greet me by name, without checking their paperwork.
I've gotten the results of the MRI, and PET/CT. As far as I can tell, they both looked good. I'm celebrating! I haven't been so concerned about the bone density test. I figure, I can take Boniva. Look how great Sally Field is doing.
I'll see the oncologist Feb. 3. I'm hoping we can get that genetic testing started. Until then, I'm staying busy with everything I love to do. Life is good!

Scans.....

2010-01-08T15:18:00.002-06:00

The PET/CT didn't happen as planned on Tues. There was an issue with the camera. I'm glad they caught it before the injection! I really would have been upset, to have gotten that nasty IV for nothing! As it was, I had a nice little nap in the waiting room. I've developed the ability to will myself to sleep while being scanned, or infused. It's a handy trick, that I hope I'm able to maintain. Put me in a scanner, or chemo chair and I'm out like a light.
I'm first on the list for Tuesday, the 12th. I haven't had much scanxiety this time. I'm just ready to get it over with.
Nothing but good results from the Wednesday MRI. One down, two to go!

2010

2010-01-04T10:36:00.002-06:00

I'll be starting off the new year with a bang. PET/CT scan in the morning. MRI Wednesday afternoon. Bone density on the 22nd, followed on February 4th with an oncologist's appointment.
In between, there will be a quick trip to Anahuac, and some Valentine prep work that needs to be done at the shop.
I hope to have the results of the scans before I leave for Anahuac. I'm feeling well, no symptoms, which is why I'm comfortable with a 6 month schedule. At this point we are in a watch and wait mode.
It's hard to believe that it's been almost 2 years since I got that last chemo infusion. One of the first oncologists told Don in July of 2007, the chances weren't good I'd live longer than 2 years. Here's to hoping 2010 will continue to bring healing, and good health.

2009-11-19T22:01:00.002-06:00

I can't make these things up. This was the message in my fortune cookie tonight --"It's not only important to add years to your life, but to add life to your years."

Today was colonoscopy day. Good news, 2 polyps now gone. Better news they didn't look like bad polyps. Best news I won't need another colonoscopy for a year or two!

Finally, back to the blog!

2009-10-20T09:42:00.023-05:00

The place where lucky ducks live.

The Peabody Hotel...Memphis, TN

October 14, 2009

AB @ Graceland, October 14, 2009.
OK, so everyone ought to do it once.

Jill Brooks, Leslie Markey, and Bryan Boggs.
The anticipation is contagious!
U2 360 tour October 12, 2009

Bryan and Mom at the new Cowboy's Stadium.
Pre-U2 concert!
I was so thrilled he thought to invite his old mom!!!!

The mess that was the design room.
Country Cottage Florist renovations
Sept. 22, 2009.......Finished pictures will follow! lol

Cousins Laura & Lynn at the "Teacup Reunion"
The Woodlands, Oct. 3, 2009

Anahuac--GatorFest 2009. Need I say more?

September 12, 2009
Happy Anniversary Don and Annaleisa! Thirty Three action packed years!!!!!
(and yes, I really did want this for our anniversary, I'm awesome on it!)

September 4, 2009

The girls did South Beach again this summer.

Vicki, Annaleisa, and Sarah Boggs at Mango's.

August 14, 2009

In memory of Pops.

May 25, 1920-June 20, 2009

He was the best!

I hope no one thinks I've been a total couch potato since my last post! I've been busy, and seldom think about the nightmare that was 2007. With that being said, I feel a real urgency to go (A LOT!) and get things done. I'm blessed to feel as good as I do.

Friday, October 23 will be the 2nd anniversary of my first clean scan.

There is some debate about when you start counting down to cured. I don't know if it should be from the date of surgery, 1st clean scan, or when the doctor tentatively says you can safely be considered NED (no evidence of disease). It doesn't matter. I'm still here,

a very fortunate and much happier girl!

2009-07-27T11:23:00.001-05:00

What's been going on

2009-07-27T10:11:00.003-05:00

July has been a roller coaster month at the Boggs' house. Some good, some great, some not so good, and some just downright horrible. We've all pulled through now, and are moving ahead at a steady, but more cautious pace.

I had a pet scan on July 10. The weeks leading up to this scan were filled with a certainty that it would be bad news. I have heard from the beginning of this ordeal that most stage IV colon cancers rarely make it to 2 years, and if there will be a recurrence, it will be within the first 24 months. I was diagnosed, with surgery on June 21, 2007--that must make me a prime target.

I have to admit, I went into a dark place. I just knew I was done for! To make matters worse, the scan was on Friday, and I wasn't able to read the report until Tues. The waiting is nothing short of torture. I felt better after I had the scan report in my hands and saw the results. I also made a quick visit to Dr. Meriwether's office (he's my GP), and we did a little med re-shuffle.

I had an appointment with my new oncologist on Wednesday. For those of you who are keeping count he's #4, in 2 years. I think I must hold a record for going through oncologists! Dr. Syed is fresh out of residency. He's young, and enthusiastic, and I do not see him again until December!!!! Six months! I will not need any scans, blood work, or cancer center visits for six whole months. I never dreamed I would ever hear the words: "I'll want to see you in December, I think we can safely go to a six month schedule."

One of the benefits of a fresh new doctor, is fresh, new (for me) treatments for the side effects that accumulated with chemo. I've had lingering stiffness and numbness in my hands especially my right hand. This has made work at the shop almost impossible. If I do a full day there, the next day I'm not able to make a fist or use my right hand at all. Dr. Syed has prescribed a pill, that should help with that. I would cross my fingers at this point, but I wouldn't be able to straighten them out. Maybe by next week we'll know if they are working!

To celebrate Lenice and Jack's 40th, (yes 40th!) anniversary, we all met up in Natchez for a long weekend. It was very laid-back. We toured some of the houses there, took carriage rides, did a little shopping, and had fabulous meals. A lot of my time was spent on the balcony watching the barges on the Mississippi. The weather was perfect, and it was a really nice change of scenery.

I made a quick trip into Dallas this weekend for the Texas State Florist Association's convention. It used to be an annual trip for Sarah and me. I haven't been able to attend since 2006. It was so good to be "back in the water". I'm inspired and motivated now to start doing the things the old me used to enjoy so much.

2009-05-28T23:31:00.002-05:00

The doctor's visit didn't really answer any questions. I'll be doing a PET scan in July to try to find out what's going on. I'm planning on a busy summer, with lots of travel and adventures, so this issue is going to the back of the line.

While reading a message board this evening, I came across this article:

http://www.mdanderson.org/news-and-publications/news/2009/m-d-anderson-study-finds-dramatic-increase-in-metastatic-colon-cancer-survival.html

Looks like good news. I wasn't diagnosed until 2007, had successful surgery, and the latest chemo. Odds are looking up!

I'm helping out at the flower shop this week. If you are out and about stop by and say hi.

2009-04-27T07:50:00.005-05:00

Annaleisa and Terri

Alice and Terri

We all know we aren't supposed to wish our lives away, but, I'll be really, really glad when this month is OVER. I've had a car wreck, lost sunglasses, (I know it's trivial, but it was traumatic to me) broken my ribs, had two snakes in the yard, am trying to learn this new Blackberry, and I'm dealing with scanxiety.

Now that I've gotten that off my chest my ribs all ready feel a little better. April hasn't been all bad. I went on a girl trip to Hot Springs with my friends Alice and Terri. The weekend was wonderful all the way around. The weather didn't really cooperate, but we didn't care. We started out on Friday, and checked into The Arlington. Had martinis on the veranda, and a fabulous seafood buffet. I'm taking every opportunity to try new things. I had both beluga and salmon caviar, and it was delish! We stayed up until 3:00 laughing and talking. Saturday we started out early with "the baths" which by the way were pure heaven on these aching ribs! Baths were followed by a sauna and massages. I didn't bother to tell the masseuse about the ribs, actually I had forgotten about them by then. We had facials, manicures and pedicures in the afternoon, so the whole day was spent being rubbed, lotioned, oiled, and dipped in wax. We had an early dinner, and headed back to the veranda for drinks. We only stayed up until 2:00 on Saturday, I think we were so relaxed after a day of pampering that we were wiped out.

I had a happy birthday. Heard from lots of special friends, spent the afternoon with Judy, and had a surprise birthday party Friday night. Lana brought red velvet cake, and left it here. It's been birthday cake morning, noon, and night for the Boggses.

I'll finish this up with a request for prayers. My next scan is Monday, May 4. There is a spot the doctors are watching, hoping it's nothing.

2009-04-08T09:23:00.007-05:00

Hi All,

It's been a while. I guess no news is good news. We've been busy getting the yard in shape, and just generally going and doing.

The talk I gave at the hospital in March went well. It was a good experience for me. I'm used to talking about "the cancer" one on one, and mostly to other women, so the mixed group was a scary change! With the kind of cancer I have, it's almost impossible to not talk about bowel habits, and such. I'm still getting over having to use some of the terms that were necessary to the story in such a mixed group. I warned them up front about how hard it is for me to communicate a lot of my symptoms. That is what got me in this mess to begin with! I almost died of embarrassment. I really am a goof.

Lenice came in at the end of March for Pops' birthday. While she was here we took a tour of Sweet Shop USA. We got a very personal tour, since we were the only ones there. I didn't dare take pictures of us in our scrubs, shower caps, and booties. She would have killed me. Just picture Lucy and Ethel! She picked up some really cute Easter treats for Olivia and Reece's baskets. I was a really good girl, and just helped her shop. I didn't buy a thing, Don will be so proud.

We had lunch that afternoon in Winnsboro at a cute little Italian restaurant. I always take any opportunity to have artichoke and asparagus pizza, yum-yum. We had planned on going to the bakery, but it was closed for remodeling. We walked around in Winnsboro for a while afterwards, but didn't go into any of the shops because Kitty was with us. I don't know how dog-friendly the merchants are over there. I would love to go back sans Kitty. There were some interesting antique shops that I need to see closer.

Vicki, Kitty, and I met Lenice and Marilyn Morgan for lunch in Canton last Friday. We only got to visit briefly, and never did run into Jaime and her friends. It's a small world. Vicki's sister, and Marilyn's husband went to high school together. Marilyn and Lenice have been friends since early high school. Vicki and Marilyn played catch up while Lenice and I just visited. Have I mentioned how much I enjoy being around Lenice? I know if you've been following this blog for any amount of time, I'm beginning to sound redundant. Thank you again for a wonderful lunch Marilyn. Kitty was so excited about the road trip that she bounced all over the back seat on the way to Canton. After a full day of walking, she never moved on the trip home. There were lots of dogs on leashes there, so she felt quite at home, and loved being around so many people. I took some pictures of Easter chicks to help celebrate the season.

I guess I need to update on something besides fun stuff. That's the reason for this blog after all. I had an appointment with my breast surgeon on Thursday. She seems to be concerned about my Feb. pet scans. She sees something, and in her defense, the Dr. who read the scans originally saw a little something too. When I met with my oncologist to review the readings he seemed to think that I'm good, nothing to worry about, probably just a bit of constipation (here I go again, talking about things that you don't mention in public). I had a colonoscopy in Sept., and the Dr. who did that said everything looked fine, and since the type of cancer I have is very slow growing, he doesn't think it's anything to worry about. He'd be happy to do another colonoscopy, but I'm not ready to put myself through that right now. The spot in question is in the cecum. She says that it is a very difficult to see area, very low, right by the appendix. To make a long story short, I've moved my appointment up to Monday with my colon surgeon in Dallas. I'm going in armed with a copy of the pet scan, and reports of everything I've had done since I last saw him. If he thinks I need a colonoscopy, I'll do it.

Hope everyone has a happy Easter, and it doesn't rain on our parades!

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

2009-03-16T10:29:00.006-05:00

I have recently been asked to talk to a group of hospital employees about my experience with colon cancer. I had thought that I wanted to try to forget this part of my life, to put it "behind" me so to speak ;) (a little colon cancer humor). I don't want to be a poster child for cancer. I just want to be me. If I have to have cancer, why can't it be a bit more glamorous, or romantic? Like in the movies when the heroine just slowly wastes away. Why does it have to be the one that no one wants to talk about? No pretty pink ribbons, and paint the town pink for us colon folks!
Colon cancer is just plain gross, and hateful. It will hit you when you aren't looking, and try it's hardest to take you down. It messes with your mind, tangles up your life, and for some it will eventually win out. In February, it got Pam, and just yesterday it got Shawndra. I met both of them soon after I was diagnosed, and have followed their blogs for over a year now.
I always thought that colon cancer was just for old people. I have learned that it doesn't care how old you are. My tumor was slow growing. By the time I had my first colonoscopy at 51, the doctor said that I had probably had it for at least 5 years. So, had I paid attention to the symptons I was having, and done something about them, I could have been diagnosed at 46. I didn't even know what a colonoscopy was at 46, and I sure wasn't going to go to the doctor and tell him I was bleeding out of my bum! I warned you--colon cancer is gross.
Could have, should have, would have, it no longer matters. This is my life now, and the road I'll take has been chosen for me. I'll continue to be scanned-prodded, and stuck on a regular basis. We were told by an oncologist that most stage IV colon cancer patients only live 2 years. That was a real wake up call. It's now been 1 year and 9 months since surgery. I've been off chemo for 1 year and 2 months, and am still clear. So far, I've been one of the lucky ones. I've had 2 doctors that have told me I would be cured, but they are in the minority. Most think that I'll be on some form of treatment for the rest of my life. Colon cancer seldom gives up. If you are 50 or older, get a colonoscopy if you haven't already had one. If you are 50 or under and have any strange things going on- blood in stools, anemia, abnormal stools, abdominal pain or cramping, get to your doctor and demand a colonoscopy.
Colon cancer kills as many Americans as breast cancer and aids combined. Every 9 minutes someone dies of the disease. 1 out of 18 Americans will get the disease. Colorectal cancer is highly preventable and treatable if caught early. Yet it is the nation's second leading cancer killer due to lack of screening.

Scan Results

2009-02-10T18:21:00.002-06:00

Once again, I've been blessed! The scan showed no cancer. Dr.Prakash told me to keep doing whatever it is I've been doing. Don't really know what that might be, nothing special, but I'm gonna keep it up. I've been spending more time at the shop. I plan on being there all day tomorrow, so if you're out and about stop by to say hi! Thank you so very much for your continued prayers.

2009-02-05T08:38:00.002-06:00

It's scan time again! PET scan will be tomorrow morning, here in Mt. Pleasant. This will be the 4th Pet I've had since June '07. I'm prepping today. No carbs, no food after midnight. Only one cup of coffee allowed today, now that's the tough one. I don't remember all of these rules from before. I just know that a PET is a LOT easier on me than a CT, none of that barium smoothie stuff-yay!
I'm not nervous about the results this time. That's a big first. I'm feeling great, and I've finally decided that it is what it is. I just hope I'm not jinxing the results by being too confident. I've started reading "The Human Side of Cancer, Living with Hope, Coping with Uncertainty". It was written by Dr. Jimmie Holland, a psycologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering. I've always been a control freak, surprize, surprize, and I'm trying figure out how to let alot of this stuff go and just enjoy the here and now.
Since last I posted, we've been to Enid for Joe's assignment night. The baby boy will be going to Elmdorff AFB in Alaska. This will be a 4 year assignment. He'll be flying c17s, which by the way was what he was hoping for. We are all so excited for him! He won't actually leave until Sept-Oct., he has to do some special training before he can go.
Bryan will be in town this weekend. We're planning a belated birthday celebration. We postponed the festivities while we were in OK.
I'll get the results of the scan on Tuesday. Will keep you posted. Please remember Judy, Worthie, Amanda, Carol, and the Craig family in your prayers.

2009-01-26T09:59:00.002-06:00

So far my only new year's resolution is working out well. I'm no longer a "sack-hound"! I've set my alarm for 6:20 A.M., and am sticking to it. It feels good to have all of the errands done by 10:00, and the rest of the day free. I'm much more productive, which I'm sure Don appreciates.

I've toyed with the thought of suspending the blog for a while. I never seem to have any real news. My life is pretty boring. Just about the time I decided for sure I would take a break, I had to go in for a follow up mammogram. After the longest wait for results I've ever had to endure, the Dr.s office called and told Connie (not me) the film was all clear. I dodged another bullet- yay!

I won't have another scan until Feb. I still don't know when, but it will be a PET. I'll have it done here in MP. We are just in a "wait and see" cycle. I'll have another mammo. in March, then probably a CT in May. And so it goes......

An update on Miss Kitty: I dropped her off for a little female surgery this morning. She has gained over 3 lbs. since Jan. 16. Pretty good indication that she was expecting. I'll be bringing her back home on Wednesday. Her back leg is doing much better. She can now stand up in the car and hang her head out the window like a real dog. She really has been good company even though she does have a bit of the velcro syndrome.

We have a busy week coming up. I won't be able to volunteer at all. We'll be going to Enid on Thursday (weather permitting) for Joe's assignment night. He's pretty nervous about learning where he'll be for the next 4 years. I have my fingers crossed it's somewhere warm and beachy so I can visit.

Hope everyone has a good week, I'll update when I have some real news.

Update on "The Dog"

2009-01-20T18:10:00.002-06:00

I think I've got a dog! We haven't heard a peep from any possible owners. I've added before and after pics. Scruffy, Sugar, Sweetie Pie, Miss Kitty, Darlin, went to the groomer today, and is now without a doubt a Schnauzer. As you can tell, I still don't know what to call her. She's just happy that I do call her, and answers to anything. She seems to prefer Kitty. Please keep the suggestions coming.

2009-01-16T20:47:00.002-06:00

I had decided that I didn't want a dog after keeping Oscar for a week. The decision was final, and made carefully. I'm a selfish person, who doesn't (didn't) want to be bothered with the constant needs of a house dog. Right. About face.

As I was leaving Don's store this afternoon, I saw this little dog cross FM 1734. It's a bad, busy place for a dog to be. I picked the puppy up. I am now officialy one of those crazy people who pick up strays.

We visited 3 vets today, and the pound. She has no chip, no collar, no one looking for her that we can identify. She is probably about 4 years old, mostly Schnauzer, heart worm positive, and not spayed. I had the last vet give her a bath, and check her over to make sure she wouldn't give the "big" dogs any nasties.

She is very well mannered. Seldom barks, seems to get along with other dogs, and was nice to the kitty-boys at the flower shop. She rode all the way to New Boston with me this afternoon, and never made a peep. Tomorrow I plan to drive down to Southeast Texas. We'll see how she does on road trips.

I'm giving her owners a week to get in touch with me. If I don't hear from them by then, then I guess I have a dog. Got any good names?

Christmas with the Boggses

2009-01-11T16:51:00.005-06:00

The tree is down now, and the house is quiet, but what a time we had!

No Christmas Cards This Year

2008-12-21T15:11:00.008-06:00

Well, I couldn't let Christmas slip by without including the dogs. Once again they were good sports, but as you can tell I wasn't as inspired this year with their costumes. I'll try to do better next year.

Bryan will be in Monday, Sarah, Frederick, Carmella, and Joe will be here Tuesday. It's gonna be a full house!

Merry Christmas all!

Elvis puts up with me and my crazy ideas again.

Priscilla doing what she does best, and yes she loves to have her picture taken.

But I don't want my picture taken. That's Tubby, also known as "The Moron".

Tubby took a break from digging for gophers long enough to have his picture taken. That's mud on his nose, as usual.

Tubby, what a goof!

In memory of Miss Loretta July 2001-Nov. 2008

Done! (Medium Rare)

2008-12-21T14:46:00.004-06:00

Vicki and Oscar hosted the finishing up party.

Oscar came dressed for the occasion.

The mold. I wanted to keep it for a souvenir, but was told it's bio-hazardous.

Well, I'm finally done with radiation. Last year at this time I was still doing chemo. What a crazy year it's been! Here's hoping 2009 will be better.

I started Christmas shopping on Tuesday. Thank goodness we can now do a lot of it online. I did a marathon shopping trip Thursday, and got most of it wrapped by Friday night. I'm really ahead this year. I'm usually just beginning to wrap everything on Christmas Eve, but I'm trying to listen to the doctors, and not "over-do".

Don was sworn in, or at depending on who you're talking to, on Friday. He won't take office officially until January 1. He's looking forward to being able to take Priscilla with him a lot. I never thought of coonhounds as truck dogs, but whatever.

I got all the lights up on the house last weekend, but of course the back ones keep blowing fuses. I never do have good luck with Christmas lights. I only got on the roof once, I was a good girl this year. One of the guys that work for Don did most of the heavy lifting, but I couldn't resist getting involved. It's just not Christmas til I spend some roof time.

Almost Done!

2008-12-09T17:31:00.005-06:00

A constant reminder on the door to the treatment room.

"The Team" Nick, myself, and Chad

Well, I've almost made it. Last treatment is scheduled for tomorrow at 1:00.

I won't lie, it's been rough, but I haven't had to miss a treatment, and I'm finishing on schedule.

I can't help but wonder what exactly all this radiation has done to my body. I mean other than wipe out any stray cancer that might have been floating around, which is why I willingly allowed myself to go through this treatment. Since diagnoses I've had 3 pet scans, and I've lost count of the ct scans and x-rays. I figure by now I've probably been exposed to as much radiation as a human can safely be. Who knows?

The first day I realized that this was serious stuff was the day they couldn't start the machine because there were workers on the roof. They didn't want to cook some poor unsuspecting maintenance guy, so we waited until the roof repairs were done, then proceeded as usual. I then noticed that after I was "set up" everyone would run, and I'd hear that huge door close. I was left in the room with all that "stuff" buzzing around and through me. If the radiation can float up through the ceiling and roof, and do a number on someone up there, there's no telling what it's done to me.

Wouldn't it be ironic to survive chemo, radiation, and all the emotional crap that goes with it all, just to find out years later that "sorry, you have radiation induced cancer." There probably isn't really a cancer called radiation induced, but it sounds about right.

Anyway, I just have 1 more to go-yeah! I asked the guys if I could keep my block and have it framed. A block is kind of like a stencil, made out of some serious metal, that focuses the radiation where you want it to go. Nope. Seems my block is bio-hazardous. Figures.

I've been spending some time lately surfing you-tube. The kids are mortified, but thought I'd share this oldy with everyone. I think it's funny, and it's kind of fitting.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Aq5cqjUFOo

Thanksgiving with the Boggses

2008-12-01T09:25:00.004-06:00

New for me this year was pie baking, but it wouldn't be a Boggs holiday without a fancy cake!

I hope everyone had a good Thanksgiving. Ours was fast!! It seems like I cooked, cooked, baked, and baked some more, we sat down and it was over! Sarah wasn't able to come in this year. She spent the holiday in Atlanta, GA, with Frederick's family. The boys came in Wednesday. They were kind enough to help me pull the Christmas tree, and all the decorations out of storage. I finally finished the tree last night, but I still have boxes and newspapers scattered everywhere.

Radiation is still happening. I have 8 more treatments! I look like a boiled lobster! They are starting what they call "the boost" with today's treatment. It is a concentrated blast of radiation directed at the area where I had the lumpectomy. The good thing is that the part of me that is burned won't be getting anymore radiation. I've had 4 days off with the holiday, and I'm ready to get it over with!

I had an appointment with Dr. Prakash last Monday. Looks like I'm still on the 3 month scan schedule. I'll be having a Pet scan in February. Seems I have a cyst on the liver, and it needs to be monitored. It's probably nothing, but we can't be sure. The genetic testing is off for now. My insurance won't cover it, and I'm not willing to add yet another medical bill to the list. The good news I carried out of the meeting is that if or when I do have a recurrence, I will be able to use the same chemo I did the first time. I had really good response to it. The bag of tricks is still full.

Results

2008-11-17T20:12:00.002-06:00

It has been a really, really long day. I didn't sleep much last night. Don hates it when I get so worked up. I don't live scan to scan. I live everyday, but the 2-3 days before scans are killers to me. My attention span is nil, and my temper is even shorter.

Anyway, my appointment for the scan was at 9:30 this morning. I was up by 5:00, why I don't know. I couldn't have any coffee, breakfast, or even water. I finished the last of the lovely Banana-Barium Smoothie by 7:00. I was at the hospital at 8:30, and met Vicki there. We spent the next 1 1/2 hours waiting. I had to drink another "Banana Smoothie", and wait 30 minutes more before they could do the scan. We finished everything, and I was released at 11:00. We went straight to Sonic. Breakfast was calling!

I spent the next hour at home in bed. My radiation appointment was at 1:00. I followed that with another 1 1/2 hour genetic counseling session. I had blood drawn, Don showed up and we drove over to the hospital.

We had hoped that the CT results would be available. Unfortunately they weren't. We left my cell # with Dr. Twaddell's secretary, and I went home. I waited, and waited, until I couldn't wait any longer. Errands don't wait for much of anything around here. I went to the banks and post office. I wasn't gone 20 minutes, but I missed Dr. Evett's call. He left a message that the scans looked great!

I have a radiation treatment in the morning, but don't think I'll be volunteering. I feel like I'm coming down with the "East Texas Crud". I'll see Dr. Prakash next Monday. I'm hoping he'll be putting me on a 6 month checkup schedule. The results of the genetic testing will be back in 3-4 weeks.

Vicki came over tonight for a little celebration. I'm so glad I'm her "project". Life would be so boring without her around.

Positive Thoughts

2008-11-16T19:52:00.003-06:00

Tomorrow, Monday, will be a busy day. I'm due to have scans in the morning. I'm suffering from a bad case of "scansiety" today. If the tests come back clear, I'll be released for 6 months! Yeah!!!! If they don't come back clear, we'll have to pull out our bag of tricks. Yuck.

I'll have a radiation treatment tomorrow afternoon, followed by genetic counseling. I don't know if they will draw blood tomorrow, or if I'll have to wait for that. There are some pretty serious complications that we'll have to face if I carry the gene mutations.

I'll post again when I get the news, until then, please keep us in your prayers.

2008-11-10T11:49:00.007-06:00

Mom and Dad relaxing after dinner.

Connie and Barbara (on the bike). These two ladies are part of the team that keeps "Team Boggs" rolling!

Vicki and Nick-one of the "radiation guys"

Vicki just being Vicki.

Don and Elvis heading to the pool.

Vicki, Don, and Merideth at Vicki's birthday party.

I don't know what's wrong with me! Sorry I finished the last post the way I did. These pictures should clear up any ideas of depression on my part! I have a new favorite song I'd like to share with you--http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GJe57FQykAQ&feature=related

Seasons Changing

2008-11-10T10:41:00.003-06:00

I've been taking pictures, and composing what I'd like to share for weeks now. This morning it's cold and rainy out. The leaves are at least a foot deep around the house. The plants that survived my care this summer are tucked safely inside, hopefully to make it through the winter. Don and I have been trekking across the meadow to check on "The Tree". It is finally showing it's color, and will only continue to be more beautiful in the next few days.

For those that haven't heard, Don won the commissioner's race. He will soon be officialy Commissioner of Precinct 1. We had a few friends over to wait for the totals. I think everyone was happy with the results.

I'm still volunteering at the cancer center twice a week. I've met some amazing people, and think that I've benefited from the experience more than I've helped. I have now finished 12 of 33 radiation treatments. We are trying to decide if we want to do genetic testing. It's a big decision, but thankfully, I don't have to make it quickly.

Don got his new wet suit in this week. He's only used it once so far. It's harder to get into and out of than he thought, and since the gym has an indoor, heated pool, I guess the wet suit will only get used when he can't make it over there.

The last week was Vicki's birthday week. She celebrated in Tyler, Mt. Pleasant, and Pittsburg!

Merideth and Roy had a fish fry for her on Saturday night. It was lots of fun! On Sunday afternoon we went to the winery in Pittsburg. We decided it was the perfect way to spend an afternoon, very relaxing.

It seems like whenever things start looking up, and we are moving ahead, something always happens to bring us down. We lost our sweet Loretta yesterday. Don found her in her dog house. I can't believe that she's gone. My heart is broken.

2008-10-28T15:52:00.003-05:00

1 year, and 5 months after diagnoses, I've finally started radiation. I'm being treated in Mt. Pleasant. The plan is to receive 33 doses. I go into the clinic every day (Mon.-Fri.). If all goes as planned, and the machine cooperates, I should be finished by the first week of December. Let's all keep our fingers crossed.

On a more upbeat note, I drove down to Anahuac a couple of weekends ago for a quick visit with Mom and Dad. They rode out Hurricane Ike amazingly well. I think they were lucky this time. I hope they don't try it again. While we were having dinner in Baytown Saturday night I ran into a friend from high school. I'm not going to say "an old friend", because she looked fabulous. The years have been kind to Barbara!!!!

2008-10-04T09:52:00.003-05:00

I can't believe I haven't posted in so long. Where does the time go?

I've started walking again. An old friend, Vicki, called out of the blue one day and said, let's go for a walk. I've done it everyday since, and couldn't feel better. We are back up to 2 miles, with plans to get up to 3+ a day. I'm noticing that my clothes are starting to fit better again. Yeah!
I won't need to go shopping for a while since I have a huge range of sizes hanging in the closet.

Vicki and I have also been volunteering at the cancer center twice a week. I don't know how much help I've been, but I keep going. We were in charge of getting the place "pinked up" for breast cancer awareness month, so we spent most of Thursday morning making and hanging pink ribbons. I told everyone that would listen that March is colo-rectal cancer awareness month, and our color is blue. I want some attention for that too! I have been surprised at how many patients here have the same kind of cancer I do (did).

I've helped out at the flower shop a little, but the girls had homecoming under control, so I stayed away as much as possible this week. Homecoming never was my favorite thing. Now, the fall flowers are starting to come in, and that's another thing all together. I LOVE fall colors. I did a little light decorating at the house last week, we have pumpkins, and "the crow" on the front steps, and fall arrangements and pumpkin pie candles burning in the house. I'm ready for the leaves to start falling.

Don has been doing well, he's still swimming every day. We are going to have to join the gym when it gets colder, either that, or heat the pool. He ordered a wet suit so he could continue to swim, but he's had some "issues" with it, I wonder if he has a plan "B"?

We spent last Saturday at the steer sale at the fair. I didn't go last year, since I had just had a treatment, so I really, really enjoyed the funnel cake we shared. The weather was "fair-perfect", and it was nice to get out and walk around like normal again. Pops even went, but not with us! His sitters found a wheel chair, and took him out for about an hour. He had a big time.

We finally got around to celebrating our 32 anniversary last week. I can't believe we've been married that long! We took a quick trip out of town, spent the night, and had a lovely dinner at our favorite Asain restaraunt. It was a nice break.

Pops's care has had to increase, he now has a visiting nurse that will come by 1-2 times a week. An aide has been added to his team too. She is scheduled to be here everyday at 6:00, and will stay until 7:00. She is responsible for night-time meds, and helping him with a bath before bed. We are hoping that that will help him sleep better. Seems he's been getting up a lot every night, and has had a couple of falls. Don can no longer get him up by himself, it takes two men to lift him, remember he's a big guy! The amazing thing is that he can't walk into the bathroom without falling, but he can wiggle his way out of his hospital bed, complete with rails without falling down.

The campaign is gearing back up. We put up a few signs last night, and I've noticed them popping up around town. There is a Democratic Rally planned for today, and we'll be stopping by for a while. The next debate is scheduled for Oct. 14, at the Civic Center. November will be here before we know it!

Hope everyone is able to enjoy this wonderful weather. There's something about that first little fall briskness in the air.

2008-09-19T11:41:00.003-05:00

I'm doing fine. We still don't know exactly why I had "the bleed". Self-diagnoses tells me it was just an unfortunate series of events. I won't go into it all now, but I know now what I'm going to avoid for a while! I did find out that you don't want to mess with thyroid medications. I'm back on mine now (took myself off in Dec. of '06). Swelling is pretty much gone, and energy level is finally coming back. I haven't had to do couch time all week.
The Chambers County family made it through Hurricane Ike pretty well. They were lucky. Mom and Dad lost 2 trees, that was all. I heard yesterday that one of my cousins has a shrimp boat in her yard. Of course on top of everything, supplies and necessities like clean water are hard to come by, and the power probably won't be back on for another week or so. I spoke to a friend from down there this morning, and her house flooded, but the good news is that her husband, dogs, cat, and horses are all safe. Another friend lost his house, hunting lodge, and all of his barns, but again the good news is that his family is safe. I saw the pictures of Oak Island on the news, and it's pure devistation. It is all gone.

2008-09-04T08:24:00.003-05:00

Yesterday afternoon was spent napping on the couch, and catching up on missed phone calls. Barry and Lana brought dinner last night and we spent the evening quietly. Sleep came easily last night, which always surprises me after I've slept so, so much during the day, but last night was different. I slept peacefully all night, and had the most wonderful dream. I dreamed of the future. I dreamed we moved the flower shop to another location. All of my past and present employees were there. It was all very detailed. Everyone worked as one big team, we laughed, had a major screw up (which was as usual my fault, lol) and had so, so much fun. It was so good to see the old "crew" again. I don't really know what it all means, but I woke up feeling re-charged and happy. Happy days.

2008-09-03T15:16:00.003-05:00

I now know (not that I ever wanted to) what ICU is all about. I'm home now after a 5 1/2 day stay at the hospital. Yuck. I woke up to a serious GI bleed Thursday night. Don and Harry (thank goodness he was here), took me to ER, and after a lot of poking, proding, scaning, etc., I was moved into ICU for the next couple of days. I'm still waiting for results from all of the tests, but have my fingers crossed that my stomach and small intestines are suffering chemo irritation. I should know more later. The good news is, the port is a goner. Thank you Bryan for dropping your plans, and coming home to be with Dad. I'll post more later. Right now the couch is calling me.

Getting Back to the old me

2008-08-27T09:48:00.004-05:00

What a week! I had an appointment with Dr. Prakash on Tuesday, and the port will be coming out. HOOOORAYYYY!!!!!!! I have hated this thing since the beginning. It's like a constant reminder of everything horrible. He didn't want to say that I'm cured, but he did say that there is no data to compare my case to. In other words, they don't know why I'm doing so well, but they aren't going to question it, and neither am I. I won't see him again for 3 months, then more scans and if they are clean I'll start seeing him every 6 months.
On Friday I made a quick trip to Dr. Crim's office in Dallas. It was one of those 15 minute office visits. He looked over my scan and colonoscopy results and said he'd see me in 3 months.
We celebrated Clinton and Jean Twadell's recent marriage Saturday night. It was a really fun night out. Chocolate cake and lots of folks I haven't visited with in forever. How great is that? We were sorry we missed Lana's big 50th surprise party. Happy birthday Lana! I know you all had a great time. I hate that we couldn't be in 2 places at the same time.
I got the sad news about Hilary on Saturday morning. She was so strong for so long, and fought so hard. We need to remind ourselves how lucky we all were to know her. I was honored to do the family flowers for her services. It gave me an opportunity to think about her, and say good bye.
I was at the shop all day on Monday. Joe got emergency leave, and got home around 5:30, for visitation. After the service on Tuesday, we had a quick lunch and he left to go back to Oklahoma. I spent the rest of Tuesday doing "catch-up" errands that I had missed on Monday. Finished the day off with Lana and a glass of wine on the deck. Whew!
My to do list today isn't as long. I just need to make some phone calls and schedule some appointments. I'm not feeling nearly so overwhelmed. Jack and Lenice are coming in this weekend. It seems like forever since we've seen them.
Please keep Hilary's family and Amanda in your prayers. Hope everyone has a good week.

Now what?

2008-08-18T11:10:00.004-05:00

I have run all summer. I think somewhere down deep inside I've been running from this past year. I'm trying to put it all behind me, pretend that it never really happened. Get back to being me, BC. Don prefers to think that we are trying to get as many experiences in as possible, in case (God forbid) it comes back.

I still haven't started volunteering at the cancer center. I have my official pink shirt, and badge hanging in the closet waiting to go, but I just can't seem to do it. It's like the scars of what I've been through are still too new. I really want to help there, and I will, just not quite yet.

How long does it take to get back to normal? Physically, I'm good. I had a colonoscopy this past week. The surgeon removed 3 more polyps. That's good news, we stopped them early. I had CT scans, and they were clear. I'm still considered NED. So, what's the problem? This is where it gets sticky.

It seems like every time I turn around I hear of another cancer tragedy. Tony Snow, Leroy Sievers, the list goes on and on. But what really bothers me is the number of young people who are being hit. I don't understand, and I can't come to grips with it.

I want my old life back. I no longer want to be defined by cancer. I just want to be Annaleisa, and I know in my heart that isn't possible. This disease has changed me, and I'm still fighting it.

Last trip of the season

2008-08-07T12:52:00.004-05:00

Our last trip of the summer was a quick one to see Miss Sarah. She's doing well, and we had a relaxing, and fun visit. Went to brunch with Frederick on Sunday afternoon, walked the beach, and had a few drinks with Carmella on Sunday evening. A little sight seeing on Monday, and then the big finale on Tuesday. An airboat ride. You all know, I'm all about airboats! We got to meet several alligators up close, and as we were coming out of the everglades, a rainbow stretched across the horizon to greet us. Perfect end to a perfect trip.

Fireworks, and the 4th

2008-07-14T11:26:00.011-05:00

My family is so funny. When I was first diagnosed, they all thought I would die within the year. Bryan planned a trip to NYC for the two of us in Dec., thinking it might be the last chance to do a road trip with Mom. He soon learned that Stage IV colon cancer didn't mean I was going to die right away, so he canceled the trip. Now, I'm not supposed to know anything about that first planned trip, but the Boggs Boyz aren't great at keeping secrets! He re-scheduled the trip for the 4th of July, starting out in Boston for the Boston Pops, and fireworks. We then took the train into NYC, for a few days. We saw Wicked, did all the touristy things, saw the Yankees play the Red Sox, and met up with Lynn and her family. It was a real treat. I'm glad I'm not dead yet!!!!!!!!

What Elvis does on Saturday Afternoons

2008-07-01T10:51:00.005-05:00

Do I have too much time on my hands?

What the Kitty Boys do when I'm away

2008-07-01T10:39:00.003-05:00

Thought I'd let everyone know what Sigfried was up to while I was in New Orleans. He no longer thinks he's a dog. He thinks he's a lion now. Poor Roy!

AFTER:

BEFORE:

Relay for Life

2008-07-01T10:27:00.002-05:00

Relay for Life, 2008 is now history! The last hurrah was last night with a pizza party at the CLC in Mt. Pleasant. I believe that so far they have collected $63,000! Not bad for a group without a central chairman. The great numbers were done with old fashioned teamwork. It was good to see old friends and make new ones. Judy, Bill, Annaleisa, Don, Worthie, and Richard were all in attendance.

Bill, Don, and Richard are heroes! They have stood by the Sistas during this past year. I overheard Don ask Richard, "Did you think we'd be here last year at this time?" We are all so, so very fortunate, and happy!

Summing it all up

2008-06-16T10:30:00.008-05:00

These are posted backwards :(

We finished the weekend off on a grand scale! One of my longterm dreams has been dinner at Commander's Palace! It was all I thought it would be. Don's fish was swimming, unbelievable!!!!!

We started the last day off with beignets at Cafe' Du Monde. I'm glad I wasn't in any of these pictures, I had sugar, AND powdered sugar ALL over me. Silly me didn't think about sitting downwind.

I especially liked the art work behind Jack. I think he had the best view of everything. We were at a corner table, and he was facing Jackson Square.

The last two pictures were taken at the Old Absinthe House. We had just spent an hour wandering around the French Quarter, lost as only touristas can be. Check out our friend in the background. The blonde. She told Lenice she had just been "decked" by a drag queen while minding her own business walking down the street! Oh yeah-have I mentioned that I LOVE NEW ORLEANS?

We're laughing because we didn't have to sit next to the blonde!!!!!!!!!!

Houmas House

2008-06-16T10:11:00.007-05:00

Front entrance of The Houmas House, facing the river.
One of many water gardens at Houmas House. There are sculptures of two giant herons in the background by the rock wall. I just love herons!

One of several waterfalls.

This pot was originally used to make molasses from the sugar cane grown here. Clever up-dated use for it, don't you think?

The back water garden.

Back of the house with part of the terrace, and water garden in the foreground.

Don, admiring the art. This is for "the boys"!

Here's another one for the boys. He really was trying to be a sport.

Lenice said she thinks that Houmas House must be what heaven is going to be for me. A place with lots and lots of blooming plants that I know the names of, and lots of water falls, fountains, sculpture, and butterflies. I hope she's right. It was so peaceful!

More Pictures! (For Joe!!!)

2008-06-16T09:45:00.006-05:00

This is my favorite picture of Jack. He's standing on the levy just across from Oak Alley. The back gardens of Oak Alley Plantation.

The front entrance of Oak Alley, it's obvious where it got it's name!

Don enjoying the view from the front veranda.

Annaleisa and Lenice. It is hot, but we didn't know when this picture was taken that mint juleps were waiting for us downstairs!

Guess Where I've Been!

2008-06-09T16:51:00.002-05:00

There are really tall horses, and nice policemen (at least the ones we met were nice to us. lol)

Unbelievable food

Great Company

Don and I just got back from New Orleans. I'm going to post a few pictures every day so I won't totally bore you all. We started out Wednesday night, and got back early this morning. There's never enough time there!!!! I LOVE NOLA. We met Jack and Lenice, and had a blast.

"Great Company", was shot right after we met up. We were at a brewery on Poydras St. Lenice and I had a Mojito, it was HOT down there! A whole 3 days and 2 nights to look forward to.

We had dinner at Landry's, because it was an easy walk. Don's back is still bothering him a bit, so we tried to be gentle on him.

On the way back to the hotel, we spotted the tallest horses I've ever seen. They were as tall as Clydesdales! Well, maybe not that tall, but remember I'm always the shortest person in the group, and they looked pretty big to me! More to follow.......

What I Want To Be

2008-06-02T10:27:00.009-05:00

Bryan is still keeping us all on our toes!!!!!!
Sarah is happy, and doing well!

Joe is meeting his goals!

Last week when I did career day, a couple of the kids asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I've been thinking about that off and on since. I've pretty much met all of my early goals so far.

I've been blessed with a great family.
My children are successful, reaching their goals and getting close to their dreams.
I'm not often bored, but often have interesting day to day challenges.
I've had a wonderful, and creative career.
I've had the opportunity to meet wonderful and inspiring people along the way.
I'm happy.

I'm not much on bucket lists. It seems to me that a list like that would force me into a sense of urgency. I don't feel urgent. I'm not going anywhere right away. I have been thinking about what I want to do when I grow up though. Here's the rough draft:

I want to play the piano like Jerry Lee Lewis. I don't want to be like him, I just want to play like him, with wild abandon. I want to pound out the notes with gusto!
I want to sing like Janis Joplin. At the top of my lungs, and from the heart. Not church choir kind of singing, but loud, from the gut singing.
I want to start drawing and painting again. I haven't done a sketch in years. I feel the need to paint green, red, purple, and blue dogs!
This is the funniest one - I want to run a marathon. I know, I've lost it.
I want to see Italy, and the Greek Isles.
I want to master Italian cooking.
I want a Yorkshire Terrier. She should be named Sally Field. That's the cutest and spunkiest lady I can think of right now.
I still want to learn to drive an airboat. Look out Gator-Fest!!!!!!!!
I am a realist, I know some of this list won't happen, but it's fun to dream.

2008-05-29T11:38:00.002-05:00

The "Sistas". Honored, Honorary Co-Chairs of Mt. Pleasant's Relay For Life, 2008. What a year it's been, right girls?

Judy Hoffman, Worthie Witherspoon, Annaleisa Boggs

2008-05-28T09:13:00.002-05:00

The results are in.....drumroll, please! All clear!!!!!!!!!!

There was much discussion between Dr. Prakash, Don and myself as to the exact term to use. Don thinks, NERD, no evidence of residual disease. I think NED, no evidence of disease. Dr. Prakash actually used the term medical remission. Don, I'm sorry but I don't want to be a NERD.

The dr. doesn't want to remove the port at this time. He said that there is a 30% chance of a reacurrance. The gambler in me told him right quick that that meant there's a 70% chance of me being completely cured! I like those odds.

So, I will continue to visit the center every 4 weeks to have the port flushed. I won't see Dr. Prakash for 3 months, then will have a ct scan to see what's up.

Still no word on radiation. I'm hoping they are getting all the kinks knocked out of that machine so that it will be smooth sailing when it's my turn.

Gotta run, Joe is flying into Longview today and we're gonna make a fast trip over for lunch.
I'll remember the camera today!!!!!

2008-05-24T18:09:00.002-05:00

The scans went fine. Don took off and went with me so I didn't even have to face the "bloodsucker"! I can't believe I actually called her that. I'm so ashamed! lol!!!!!!

We got back around 4:00, and I was wiped out. I slept for 12 hours last night, and never even moved. When I got up this morning I couldn't even walk. I feel great now.

I think I just overdid yesterday. The career day was a hit, but it was exhausting. I don't know how I used to do it all.

Pops is having some problems staying asleep at night. He has begun wandering around at all hours, and he's fallen a couple of times. Looks like his level of care is going to be going up soon.

Hope everyone has a nice weekend off. I'll get the results of the scan on Tuesday, and will let you all know when I know something!

2008-05-21T10:03:00.002-05:00

Sorry for the rant in the previous post. I'm all better now!

Don and I took the opportunity last Friday of driving over to Texarkana. Joe and his flight instructor flew in from Enid, and we took them to lunch. It was quite a treat to see the baby boy looking like "top gun".

We got home around 4:00, and my borrowed grandson was here with the weed eater. I now have the perfect family! A grand-daughter to bake cookies with, and a grand-son to help me with the heavy lifting. I could not have gotten this yard back in control without Cody. He is a god-send. My yard has been pretty much neglected for the past year. Other than a regular mowing and trimming, that's all the attention it's had. The flower beds had all gone back to their natural state, of berry vines, and a beautiful crop of weeds. Anyone who knows me, knows how much satisfaction I get out of a neat yard, plus where we live, weeds=snakes, and that's not acceptable!

We went over to Barry & Lana's Friday night, and then to Luigi's for dinner. It was a blast. Kryznechi, the owner, was training his nephew, so we had appetizers on the house, yum!
It seems that my weight has ALL come back on. Tammy, Don's cook told me I was getting some junk in my trunk. WHAT? She said it's a good thing! Don won't let me forget it!!!!!!!!!

Don and I hosted circle out here on Saturday night. We had 7 couples, and a really good time. Don cooked ribs, everyone brought a dish, and we had a little wine and great fellowship. Don had the brilliant idea of throwing the left over rib bones over the deck into the side yard. The dogs loved it, and are still enjoying the party. They haven't left the yard since that night, they have a "bone-hunt" every afternoon.

I haven't left the house this week. I've spent the last 2 days out by the pool. It's been so relaxing. Sam and Janet stopped by last night, and we had a nice visit. I love it when people drop in. I think that our lifestyles don't promote visiting like we used to do. Of course, we don't have any neighbors, and our place is a little out of the way for most people, but I do miss seeing folks.

I'm doing career day at a local elementary school on Friday morning. I've done this before, and it's so much fun to see all the eager little faces looking up! Who knows, the next great designer might be in the audience.

Friday afternoon, I'll be going to Paris for the PET/CT scans. I'm already dealing with a little scanxiety. I've been warned by many cancer patients and doctors, that I'll always get a little anxious before scans. Is it back, is it still gone? I won't know until Tuesday. I hope that Don will be able to go with me. I called the business office girl a blood-sucker last week, just before I accused her of withholding treatment, and slamming the phone down. I don't want to face her alone!

We don't have any plans for Memorial Day this year. Last year, I had just learned that I had breast cancer, and then on Friday, colon cancer. What a year it's been. I can't help but wonder what this year will bring, where we'll be at this time next year.

2008-05-15T12:12:00.003-05:00

I'm doing ok all. Just in a holding pattern, and wondering what will happen next. Schedueled to have a PET scan tomorrow, and just got a call from the cancer center that the scan has been canceled. They didn't think I wanted to pay 4,000.00 out of pocket. On a scale of 1-10 with 10 being the most upset, I'm probably an 8. Sorry, just needed to vent.

On the road again

2008-04-22T20:30:00.003-05:00

It was a fun weekend. Friday night some of my girlfriends and I got together for a quick trip to the winery in Pittsburg. Live jazz, good company, good food, and a glass of wine! It doesn't get any better than that! I didn't remember my camera, but I will next time!

Saturday was Joe's birthday, so, thinking that was a good excuse (and the fact that we had not seen him since Christmas), Don and I drove to Enid. Wait, I drove to Enid. Don worked crossword puzzles, and read the paper the whole way. I love to drive, so we both had a good time. Joe gave us a tour of the base, and downtown. We had dinner at a local Italian restaurant that night. The food was OK, but the service was horrible! I think our waitress and the cook were having a race or something. It was the fastest meal we've ever had out. Joe's glad he knows about the place now, he'll probably never go back.

We went to church on Sunday morning, and enjoyed meeting the people who have been so nice to my baby boy in Enid. Afterwards, we had lunch at Chili's, again a fast one LOL, and headed back to MP.

I basically just stayed in all day on Monday, worn out! We made a quick trip to Dallas today to do a little business, and have lunch. I'm glad we don't have to go over there as often as we did last year. Once in a while is fun, but two-three times a week isn't.

This is Secretary's Week, and the flower shop got a huge shipment of new flowers in today. I'm going to have to go check them out tomorrow.

Hope everyone is enjoying the beautiful weather. I do believe that Spring is finally here for good!

Love to all!

Post Surgery

2008-04-12T11:40:00.002-05:00

As I said earlier, and I haven't changed my mind, lumpectomies aren't so bad! I'm taking myself off the pain meds, haven't had any since Friday at noon. The "uni-boob" came off yesterday afternoon, and other than being just a little uncomfortable where the bra hits the incisions, I feel like my old self.
Dr. Cuenca called last night with the preliminary reports from the pathologist, (drum roll.........) it looks like I'm all clear. The lymph node tested clear, it's all gone! She had told me that it all looked good just after surgery, but for goodness sakes, I was on morphine! Anyone who knows me knows that Annaleisa+drugs=not a good combo! I do remember Barry & Lana coming to visit this time!!!!!!
I never even took vitamins before all this happened. Don and I have had lots of laughs over our "med" boxes recently. I need one of those that are for 3 times a day pills, but I won't break down and get one. I would feel like the drugs were running me, not me them. My box is a simple Sunday-Saturday box, with just one compartment per day. I have to admit though that those poor little pills are all a bit crowded into their tiny cubby-holes.
Bryan and Roddy came in last night to crash at the house and see a Cory Morrow concert. I know I'm either old or uninformed when I didn't know who Cory Morrow was. Bryan said he played at the gator fest this past fall, I was there but unaware!
I'm not allowed to drive until Tuesday, when I go back to Dr. Cuenca's office. I'm not used to being told I can't do something. I'm trying to stay busy catching up on things around the house, and between naps, and the food network, the days have been going by pretty fast.
Wouldn't you know that our first volunteer training session is set for 9:00 AM on Tuesday, and my dr.s appointment is at 9:30. I'm going to run back and forth, and if I have to make up the hour or so I miss at training, I'll worry about that later. Maybe when the volunteer coordinator sees how I drive, she won't put me in charge of moving patients in wheelchairs-hehe.

2008-04-10T12:01:00.002-05:00

Just a quick up date. Lumpectomies aren't so bad! I'm out of the hospital and home. Everything went fine, but we won't know the results until the 15th.

Don won the run off for those of you who haven't heard. The next step is November.

I'll post more later. I'm still a bit light headed!

Happy Days

2008-03-16T10:53:00.003-05:00

The past week has been busy, productive, and positive. I've been playing at the flower shop a bit more. I'm trying to learn our new computer system that was added in June. Believe it or not, up until this week, I couldn't add an order, or post a payment. Talk about useless!!!!! I'm getting a little better at it, but it's taking some time. The daily closeout has me bumfuzzled. I have to start at 4:00 in order to be finished by 5:00, and that doesn't include the time it takes to answer the phone, or say hello to walk-in customers. I never believed that you can't teach an old dog new tricks, but I'm starting to see the wisdom in that saying. I do think I might have finally figured out how to add pictures to this blog! If so, I'll go back and fill in a few gaps in the last posts!!!!!

Saturday we had two orders going to the hospital. They were both going to the same floor, and one of them was for a lady I have always admired. I volunteered to take them myself so that I could say hello to this wonderful lady. I walked into the hospital with a dozen red roses, that I have to admit were spectacular, and EVERYONE who saw the flowers stopped and commented on how beautiful they were. Needless to say, by the time I got to the nurses station, I was smiling from ear to ear. The recipient was called to the desk (she is a nurse), and the look on her face was complete disbelief. She was speechless for a minute. As I was waiting for the elevator, I overheard her say, "He never sends me flowers!" She couldn't take her eyes off of them. All of her co-workers were admiring them, and congratulating her on her anniversary. On the way down in the elevator, I got to thinking about the many messages flowers can convey, and what a powerful, but mostly overlooked gift they are. I kept thinking about that nurses' reaction and by the time I got to the car I was actually tearing up. I got the second arrangement out, and went back upstairs for a quick visit with my friend. (She's doing fine, by the way, and will be discharged soon). As I left her room, I saw the nurse still looking at her roses. She stopped me and said that in the hustle and bustle of getting ready for work that morning she had only briefly acknowledged that it was their anniversary. She and her husband were both working 12 hour shifts that day, and she had not given it a second thought. They have been married for 22 years. I told her that she had made my day too. Getting to see her reaction, and the thoughts she shared with me were priceless. I think flower delivery people must have the best jobs in the world. In what other profession can you witness every human emotion? From birth to marriage to death, and everything in between. I get to be a part of it all. I am so blessed.

Don spent most of the afternoon campaigning. He likes to say that he gets up every morning 300 votes behind, and goes to bed at night 300 votes up. He is having fun with this campaign. He gets to talk all the time, which is one of the things he does best!

We had some friends over last night for a little visit, then we all went to dinner. Mexican food and Mojitos! It doesn't get any better than that. When we got home I found a Bob Dylan special on PBS. The perfect end to a perfect day.

I'm taking it easy today. Plan on trying a new recipe for crawfish stew. I know it does kind of sound gross, but I try to do "cajun" on Sundays. It's the SouthEast Texas girl coming out in me.

I got good news from Anahuac this week. My cousin Wayne had a biopsy at MD Anderson, and it turns out that he does not have cancer! Elizabeth, his wife, has just finished 33 rounds of radiation for breast cancer, so she has been giving me encouragement and info through this next stage.

Donna from Dr. Saez's office called Friday morning, and I am now off of chemo until at least the end of April, first of May. I have been having a treatment every 3 weeks since my last pet scan. The doctors don't want any Avastin floating around in me during surgery and healing, so I really am chemo free now for the first time since July. Surgery is scheduled for April 9, here at the hospital. We are saying special prayers for the surgeon, Dr. Cuenca. I know I'll be in good hands.

Prayers are going up for D.L., Loy Jean and their families, Hillary Johnson and her family, and many others.

2008-03-11T22:56:00.002-05:00

I received the results of my MRI today. Dr. Cuenca could not see any signs of breast cancer. This is a good sign that the nasty disease has lost the battle for now.
I'll be having a little surgery in April, then a follow up of radiation. How much? Don't know yet. The doctors will meet and discuss my case later. The radiation can't start until after April 22, that's when the cancer center opens. I will be getting the radiation here. I still believe that the best therapy is home therapy, as long as it is the same therapy.
Plans are still on for volunteer time at the cancer center. I'll get to be a patient and volunteer at the same time!

2008-03-01T10:31:00.002-06:00

I really don't have much to share this week. I've been spending more time at the flower shop, and less at home-which is a good thing!

I'm still waiting for the volunteer liason at the cancer center to send the information I requested. Worthie, Judy, and I plan to be the meeters and greeters there. Don't know what the admin. people have planned for us. We will be having lunch next week, and I had hoped I'd have something to tell them. The center will be opening on April 22., I feel like we are running out of time! I understand we will have to go to a training session, and with our Dr. appointments, scans, etc., it makes time limited.

The election campaigning is going well. Don has really enjoyed the forums, and visiting with the people who live in pct. 1. Just a reminder, the election is on Tuesday, the 4th! Don't forget to vote. I did early voting at Don's insistence. I really prefer to go on the day. It is fun seeing everyone there. I used to make the girls from the flower shop go with me. They always said I'd vote over and over if I could.

Pops is still "hanging in there". He has not been able to go to church the last couple of Sundays, so that makes for long days for him. He has seemed to be much more confused since his bronchial infection in January. He had fallen and broken a rib through all of that, so I know he's probably considerably uncomfortable. Hazel took him to play bingo yesterday. They "bingoed" 3 times! Hazel was thrilled, but Pops was just glad to be there. If he gets to go for drives twice a day, I think he considers it a good day.

I've recently developed a "new" side effect to the cancer drugs. Joint pain has begun. I had hoped I'd be one of the fortunate ones and not have to deal with this. My hands and neck are the worst effected. The Drs. have given me permission to use lots and lots of ibuprofen. It is a temporary help, but I have to remember to take it every 4 hours or so. I've never been a pill taker, so that has been a struggle for me.

I saw Dr. Cuenca this week. She is Mt. Pleasant's new surgical oncologist. She has scheduled me for mammograms, and an MRI this Friday. We are going to find out what the breast cancer has been up to these past 8 months. Lobular breast cancer isn't always shown on PET, or CT scans. I haven't had an MRI through all of this, so it's probably past time. She did a sonogram in her office, and couldn't really see anything other than the clips left at the time of the biopsy. Hopefully we'll have the full picture by my next appointment with her on Tuesday the 11th.

Please keep us in your prayers.

2008-02-04T08:41:00.000-06:00

I'm still in running mode!

I drove Mom back to Anahuac on Wednesday. Had dinner with cousins Wayne, Elizabeth, and Daniel. Elizabeth is going through radiation now for breast cancer. She looks wonderful, and says she's tolerating it. Wayne is going to be tested this AM. It is possible that he has a lymphoma. Please keep them in your prayers.

Thursday morning Mom and I drove out to Uncle Buddy's. I got the Yukon stuck in the ditch at his house. It's funny how soon you forget about the hazards of living in Chambers County. One of the first things I learned during driver's ed., was avoid ditches! In my defense, it wasn't a deep ditch, and it LOOKED dry, but I was in Anahuac for heaven's sake! Everything is always wet down there! Anyway, Mr. Otter, Uncle Buddy's neighbor was nice enough to pull me out. I left Uncle Buddy with a big set of ruts to remember me by!

I got the news on the way home that Pops was sick. Don spent most of the day at the emergency room with him. He is home now, but still really weak. Hazel (his companion) was admitted to the hospital at the same time. She has asthma, and Pop's has a bronchial infection.
Hazel should be out of the hospital today, and Pop's is doing a little better. I think he's probably a little confused because his routine hasn't been normal this weekend. He's had four different people sitting with him, and hasn't been able to have his "drives".

Lunch with the "Sistas" was so much fun. Worthie, Judy and I were scheduled to have lunch out here on Friday, but with Pop's being sick (and probably contagious), we met at Worthie's instead. The girls look absolutely wonderful, so happy just to be here. We laughed and talked for most of the afternoon. I'm so grateful for them both. They pulled me through some really tough times this past year. Everyone needs a support system, and they have been a huge part of mine.

I volunteered at the shop for a little while Friday afternoon. I am really looking forward to getting back up there. Felecia and I attended a sales meeting Friday night, and we had the opportunity to see old friends - Deanna, Shelly, and Carmen. I have learned to really appreciate the people in my life. I loved seeing them, and meeting Deanna's precious red headed grandson!

Bryan came in Friday night. His 27th birthday was Thursday. He is celebrating birthday season! We had dinner out late Friday night. He helped me run errands and take down Christmas decorations Saturday. I'm only taking them down because Don insists. If I had my way we would re-decorate the tree for every holiday. I just love Christmas trees.

Sunday was a lazy day. We just stayed in and caught up on household chores. Don is coming down with whatever it is that's going around right now, so no church for him. I did pause long enough to watch Tom Petty at half time last night. He has been one of my favorites for years, in fact one of his CDs are playing on my computer right now.

I'm going in for my first Avastin treatment today. I don't want to give the "C" word an opportunity to come back! I'm going to attempt to volunteer at the flower shop this afternoon, and then the rest of the week. Valentine's is on us. I've had a nice long break from the shop, now it's time to get back to it!

I hope everyone has a great week. Now, let's get busy!!!!!

2008-01-29T18:34:00.000-06:00

I'm still in awe of the scan results. I went to see Dr. Saez today, and he said it is very uncommon for a stage IV patient to be in remission so soon. I'm going to keep doing whatever it is I've been doing to stay on course.

I'll be going into the Mt. Pleasant Oncology center every 3 weeks for 6 months, starting Monday for Avastin infusions. I'll take the Arimedex orally for 5 years, and we'll be praying A LOT!!!!!!!
I'll be meeting with Dr. Cuena (sp) our new breast cancer specialist, and surgeon in the very near future. Many of my friends have been concerned about the breast cancer diagnoses. A mastectomy is not in my future, according to Dr. Saez, but with Dr. Cuena's expertise we'll be even more on top of this. Apparently, the breast cancer was caught very early, so we were lucky in that!

I'm living it up, burning up the roads. I drove down to Beaumont Sunday night to have a visit with Carol. We wound up having a block party in her garage, with all of her fun neighbors. Everyone enjoyed "Tibedeaux Specials". That's shrimp and crawfish etouffe served on top of rare steaks. Dinner was delicious! We didn't get to bed until after 1:00 A.M., it was like the old days. Carol and I had coffee in bed on Monday morning, then I drove to Anahuac to pick up Mom. She was all ready to go--bags were packed and lined up at the door. We went over to Houston and picked up Uncle Bud's slot machine which has been in the shop there since just after Christmas. We had lunch in Lufkin at Ralph and Kakoo's. It turned into a 2 hour lunch. The food was wonderful, but our waitress was a little more than scatter brained.

We got back to Mt. Pleasant, about 6:30 Monday night. We went in to see Dr. Saez this morning, then drove to Rockwall for lunch and on over to the mall for a little light shopping. We got home about 5:30 today--whew!

Mom and I are leaving to go back to Anahuac in the morning. I'm scheduled to have dinner with a high school friend I haven't seen in years. I'm really looking forward to catching up. I'm planning on seeing Uncle Buddy, and all the other relatives and friends I can on Thursday morning, then I'll drive back to Mt. Pleasant.

Lunch is planned for Friday with Worthie and Judy. I haven't seen them since before my surgery in June. We talk on the phone and e-mail, but it isn't like looking them in the eyes.
I just realized it sounds like all I do is eat. That's almost right. My appetite is scary!!!!

I'm feeling well, and stronger than ever. God is good!! I'll post again soon.

Scan Results

2008-01-25T23:07:00.000-06:00

As of now the scans show that there is NO Evidence of Residual Disease!!!!
I'm clear!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'll be seeing my oncologist again on Tuesday to finalize follow up treatment plans.
We want to be sure we've got it all, you know colon cancer is a sneaky little monster.

I sincerely thank you all for your continued prayers. Prayer is what has gotten me through so far, so please keep it up.

Pet Scan

2008-01-22T11:43:00.001-06:00

How cute is she!!!! This is Miss Olivia wearing the beginnings of Loretta's new dog jewelry.

We had a nice weekend with Lenice, Jaime, and Olivia. I had forgotten about the energy four year olds have. It was fun watching Olivia play, eat, get kisses from Priscilabel, watch movies, then crash, sound asleep in her mamma's lap. She is like a mini-adult. So sweet, and well mannered. She is truly a young lady to be proud of. Jaime is a wonderful mom. It is so nice to see little girls grow up into wonderful women.

We really had a laid back weekend. Olivia loved the kitty-boys at the shop. She had to have a stuffed kitty to take home with her. I think Siegfried and Roy enjoyed the attention. I know the dogs did!

Don and I went to Dallas yesterday for the pet scan. I have to be honest, I thought about bolting! It was really intimidating for me. I'll get the results on Friday, when I go back to see Dr. Crim. Updates will follow. Prayers are being heard. I'm feeling good, but a little fatigued most of the time. I'm hoping to start walking again asap. I've got to get my stamina back for Valentine's Day. I'll be volunteering at the flower shop.

The nueropathy in my fingers and toes has become constant. It feels like the tips of my fingers are numb. I've been told this could last as long as a year after chemo, or it might be permanent. I'm telling myself it's a small price to pay. Really more annoying than anything.

DONE!!!!!!!!

2008-01-16T15:04:00.000-06:00

The pump came off this morning at 11:15. I hope it's the last time I have to deal with that!!!! I sat in my car and read the paper until it just got too cold. As I walked into the clinic the timer on the pump went off--perfect timing! There were hugs and smiles and jumping up and down all around-celebration! The nurses asked me what I planned for a celebration and I told them I've got an appointment for a root canal in an hour!

The dental appointment went off without a hitch. I've run all my errands for the day, and now I plan on relaxing.

Thank you all for remembering The Boggs Family in your prayers. Pet Scan is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 21, we'll move on from there.

Happy 2008

2008-01-05T10:35:00.000-06:00

The new year is going to be a good one for the Boggs family.

I had an appointment with the doctor before chemo on New Year's Eve. We discussed what will happen next. I have one more chemo scheduled for Jan. 14. After that I will have a PET scan in Dallas, then a visit with my colon surgeon. At the end of January, I'll meet with Dr. Saez again, and he'll set up a regimen of Avastin infusions. If all goes as planned, I'll get the Avastin by IV, once every 3 weeks. Avastin is not a chemo drug, so I'm hoping for no more annoying side effects. This procedure will only take 3o minutes to an hour each time. That's quiet a bit of difference. I'm used to going in every 2 weeks now, and spending anywhere from 3-5 hours a time!

The hopeful news through all of this is that the doctor does not think I'll need mastectomies. It seems that the breast cancer was a very early stage, and the chemos and Arimedex have been fighting it all along. After he told me that, I had to ask what he thought my prognosis might be. He thinks I will be cured!!!!!!

I thank God for the skilled doctors and surgeons who were put in our path at the very beginning of this journey. I am fortunate to have had the very best! They were able to diagnose and remove the worst of the disease. I thank God for the miracle of each new drug. I thank God for the HOPE he has given me through Dr. Saez. I thank God for all of our family, friends and neighbors who have prayed and propped us up through all of this.

There are going to be big changes with the Boggs Family in 2008! Don has announced his candidacy. He has been asked to run for county commisioner. He has never been a politician, although he does have some very definite political views. He is a public servant. He excelled when he served on the school board, and as it's president I'm sure he had to make some controversial decisions. He has a talent for seeing what will be best in the "big picture". I know he will make a great commissioner.

2008 will be a healthy, happy one for all of us!

Post Christmas

2007-12-30T11:09:00.000-06:00

Christmas at the Boggs' house was all we had hoped it would be. The kids were all here, and we had many happy times together. I was able to have my "borrowed" granddaughter here on Friday. We baked so many cookies, I've not been able to give them away fast enough! We agreed that we aren't going to wait for a special occasion for her to come back over.

The kids came in late Saturday night, and they all stayed until Thursday. Joe will be coming back through on Wednesday on his way to Enid. Sarah is flying back to FL, from Austin, and Bryan is back in Arlington planning a New Year's Eve party for his friends.

We had dinner with friends last night, and it was so relaxing! It's always nice to have a quiet visit with girlfriends when you know the guys are busy watching football.

I was so happy that chemo was put off for a week. I feel stronger than ever. No nueropathy in my hands or feet, a voracious appetite (lack of appetite has never really been a problem for me). I had my labs done on Friday morning, and am scheduled for round 11 on Monday. I hope that the white cells will be cooperating after the busy Christmas season. I'll be going into 2008 connected to the pump. Hoping that it will be a better year.

A friend of mine posted this on another forum and I thought I'd share with everyone. This is my wish for all of my family, friends, and neighbors for the new year:

My Wish for You in 2008

May peace break into your house and may thieves come to steal your debts. May the pockets of your jeans become a magnet of $100 bills. May love stick to your face like Vaseline and may laughter assault your lips! May your clothes smell of success like smoking tires and may happiness slap you across the face and may your tears be that of joy. May the problems you had forget your home address! In simple words................

May 2008 be the best year of your life!!!

2007-12-19T09:15:00.001-06:00

I learn something new with every treatment. Steroids are not my friend. The doctor prescribed pre-meds before this last treatment. We were hoping to avert the reaction I had the time before. The steroids caused a loss of equilibrium. I couldn't bend over, roll over or move too fast, for almost a week! I've been promised that they won't put me through this again.

On the other hand, I'm really lucky that I've had so few side effects through all of this. I think about my friends who have felt this way after every treatment. They are my heroes! I will do this, I only have 2 more treatments.

My dear friend and colleague, Deana, retired from Country Cottage on Friday. We had a little retirement/Christmas party for her at the shop. She has been with us for years, and we will all miss her. I helped put out the last of the cemetary arrangements that afternoon, and just spent the afternoon visiting with employees and customers. It was a fun day.

Sunday brought the Christmas Cantata at church. The choir did a wonderful job. The music was absolutely beautiful. I didn't stay for the luncheon afterwards. I'm still a little afraid of lots of people massed together in a small space.

I started Christmas shopping on Monday, but "chemo brain" took over. I have to admit I've been a little loopy/goofy since this last treatment. I went to Walmart to look for stocking stuffers, and ended up buying Christmas outfits for the dogs. I couldn't remember where I parked, so I wandered around the parking lot for about 10 minutes, looking like a bag lady.

Elvis is now Puppy Claus. Priscilla is his happy Helper Elf. Tubby is the Greedy Reindeer, and Loretta is the Victoria Secret Christmas Angel. Don apologized to all four of the dogs for the indignity that I put them through, but I think they liked the attention.

Tuesday I had a surprise visitor, Hillary! She is a friend of Joe's, who's going through chemo right now, and staying in Mt. Pleasant with her family. We baked cookies, and visited until around 4:00, when Mindy came in. Mindy is one of Sarah's best friends. She drove in from Dallas to check on her Grandmother, and stopped by to say hi. I told the girls that I'm the only person I know who sees her children's friends more often than she sees her children.

I'm planning a quick trip to Longview this afternoon. I still haven't done the stocking stuffers. After that I think I'll call Christmas shopping done. This year Christmas at the Boggs house will have more to do with memories, than gifts.

I've enjoyed nice long telephone visits with several friends this week, and I can't express how happy that makes me. I'm baking cookies on Friday with my "borrowed" grandchild. The kids will all be in late Saturday night, and Christmas can oficially begin!

D'Auan lost her sweet Tynus on Thursday of last week. He had put up a courageous fight. I am praying that God will grant her peace. Hillary will have a treatment on Thursday of this week. I am praying for strength for her. Judy and Worthie are both through with their treatments for now. I am praying for their gift to be joy! I am thanking the Lord that I feel so healthy, and will have my family around me this Christmas.

Hoping all will have a joyous Christmas.

2007-12-07T09:28:00.001-06:00

Well, the "cemetary runs" on Wednesday, weren't such a good idea after all. I spent most of Thursday in bed, just worn out! Don cooked steaks last night, and today will be a better day.

On the list for today, is another trip to the shop to drop off paperwork. I need to get the cemetaries finished today, before the weather gets too bad. We are supposed to have dinner tonight with a group of old friends. They are the people we started out our "newly-wed" time together with. Should be fun!

I'm off for labs this A.M., then I'll worry about the rest of the list.

2007-12-06T10:54:00.000-06:00

I got a lot done on Wednesday. Spent quite a bit of time at the flower shop, and set out Christmas cemetary arrangements at some of the local cemetaries. Things are really picking up there, wish I could do more to help out.

The Christmas decorating at the house is almost done, now I need to start the shopping. Planning on doing some Christmas cookie baking with Miss Jessica this season. It's a little Christmas present to myself! Since we don't have any of our own kids around, I have to "borrow" one!

Sarah is flying in on the 22nd, and I'm sure the boys will be here soon after.

Christmas is on us, full steam! Listening to Aaron Neville's Christmas songs, and hoping you all take time to enjoy the season.

2007-12-04T09:24:00.000-06:00

It has been a busy, crazy month! Aunt Joby sent me a note and said that it sounds like we are having "open house". She's right!! Uncle Buddy and his daughter Sharon dropped in one Saturday. What a shock! They drove up from Anahuac, and Houston just to spend the day. I haven't seen Buddy since last March. He was always one of my favorite people. All the kids could count on him to have red dentine chewing gum in his pockets. He would throw us all off when he'd switch to green! I haven't seen Sharon in years. We spent the day visiting, and then I made jambalaya for everyone. I hope to see them again soon. Uncle Buddy is now raising miniature cattle. I have to check that out.

Sarah, Bryan, Joe, and Carmella were all here from Wednesday through Saturday for Thanksgiving. I cooked ahead, and we were able to have lunch about 1:30. That's a record for the Boggs Bunch. The table was really pretty. I'm still trying to figure out how to add pictures to this blog :(. Computers aren't my thing, and html--forget it!

I got the tree up on Sunday, after Thanksgiving, but didn't finish it till yesterday. I had some light issues this year, and just didn't want to deal with it. The house is upside down right now. Christmas decorations and storage boxes are everywhere. Sarah's friend Mindi dropped by yesterday and said that the house looks like it threw up Christmas. She's right. We worked on wreath ribbons, and had a good time.

I went into the shop Thursday morning, and stayed until around 12:00. Don and I drove over to Shreveport in the afternoon, and did some shopping at the Boardwalk mall. It was really nice, there were no crowds, and we just strolled leisurly, and window shopped. We had a wonderful dinner that night, then drove back to M.P. the next morning. I was back at the flower shop by 11:00, and stayed until almost 5:00. I tied bows for poinsettas all afternoon.

I probably overdid it, because I wasn't worth shooting Saturday. I wish I had an internal alarm that would go off when I'm doing too much. I never know until it's too late.

I've been watching all the Christmas Specials, Charlie Brown's Christmas, The Grinch Who Stole Christmas, etc. I made Don sit down with me last night to watch Charlie Brown. He wasn't pleased, but he was a trooper. He doesn't get into the spirit of Christmas until around midnight on Christmas Eve. That's such a waste of a wonderful, uplifting season. It's almost over before he starts enjoying it. I've been listening to Christmas music since Thanksgiving. I just love it.
I think I'll try to find Jim Carey's Grinch movie today. Don can watch that tonight!

I've made my "to do" list for today, and it's growing. This is the first day in as far back as I can remember that the house is quiet. No one's here but Hazel, Pops, and me! No excuse for not getting that list finished.

I'll be going in for labs on Friday, and the 10th treatment is scheduled for Monday, the 10th. I've been prescribed some pre-meds, so hopefully, there will be no reaction this time. After this, 2 more to go. I CAN DO THIS!! I have been blessed through this whole ordeal. I have learned to live everyday with a grateful heart, and to not take anyone, or anything for granted. God's blessings show up in the simplest things, and the blessings are all around us, we just have to be still, and they appear all around us.

I'm praying special prayers for Tynus and D'Auan, Judy, Worthie, Hillary, and their families today, I hope you will be too.

2007-11-27T09:57:00.001-06:00

Treatment #9 did not go as smoothly as the other treatments went.

My appointment with Dr. Saez was a good one. He decided that we needed to adjust the oxalyplatin by a bit so that the nueropathy in my hands would not linger. He re-adjusted my schedule so that I won't have a treatment on Christmas Eve-whew! My last December treatment will be on New Years Eve. That works fine with me. We don't usually go anywhere on that night anyway.

I had a bad reaction to something in either the chemo, or the pre-treatment. Agitation, swelling in my hands, a bad rash on my hands and wrists, and nausea. Yuck. They stopped the treatment for about 45 min., and gave me more benadryl. That seemed to work. When they restarted the chemo, they slowed the drip down quite a bit. Made for a long day. I got home about 3:30. I'm grateful I didn't have to drive back from Paris!

I still owe everyone Thanksgiving and pre-Thanksgiving stories. Hopefully I will get that done by Friday.

For now I'm going back to bed. Thank you all for your continued prayers. Please remember the sweet Atkinson family, Tynus, Hilary, Worthie, Judy, and everyone else touched by Cancer, or hardship in your prayers.

2007-11-26T07:58:00.000-06:00

Hi All,
I'm off for treatment in about an hour. Number 9!!! Three more to go. I'll see the doctor today, and have a few questions for him. The nueropathy is lasting the full two weeks now, so I think he'll probably adjust my dose. I heard last week that this is a marathon, not a sprint. That makes sense. I'm going to have to slow down a little.
I'll post more later. Thanksgiving was a treat! Can't wait to tell you about it.
Pray, Pray, Pray--
Annaleisa

Week after Treatment

2007-11-07T09:15:00.000-06:00

I have to say treatments are much, much easier when taken close to home. One of my Dr.s said early on "The best treatment is local treatment, as long as it is the same treatment." He was so right. I drove myself to the hospital, and drove myself home. Of course when I got home I went straight to bed for 3 days!

We had dinner with friends Friday night, and Bryan came in late that night too. He wouldn't miss being here for the first weekend of deer season. I'm just glad none of my boys like to deer hunt! Don and I went to Tyler Sunday afternoon for a quick errand, and Bryan held down the fort at the plant!

This past Monday was a wonderful day! I got a late start, but drove to Dallas to do flower shop errands. I listened to the soundtrack from Evita the whole way over and back, and have to admit that I sang along with most of it at the top of my lungs! I'm sure the other drivers must have thought I was crazy, but I don't care. I never could have put that CD in if Don had been with me. Made a quick side trip to Central Market. It's one of my favorite places in Dallas. Picked up pre-made dinners for two nights, and a quick salad for lunch--yum.

I am suffering from the can't get goings lately. I had an appointment with a friend on Tuesday at 11:00, and didn't get dressed until 10:45! I made it, but I was about 15 minutes late. I hate to be late, but I think I'm going to have to get used to it, I'm calling this the "Paula Syndrome". My friend Paula told me that while she was going through all of her treatments, she just couldn't seem to stay on track, and get going in the mornings. If any of you can think of a better term for this, please let me know.

I went into the shop on Tuesday, and helped process flowers. It was so much fun, just like the old days! Everytime I opened a box, I'd say these are the most beautiful I've ever seen!!! I think I might have been a little too enthusiastic! Deana had to remind me to get a grip! Of course, she is around flowers 4-5 days a week, it was all new to me all over again.

I'm going to make a run to Longview today for more flower shop errands. We (the shop) is doing a dinner on Thursday, with 40 tables to decorate. I'm really excited. They need me!!!!

Joe is coming in on Friday, and plans to stay through Sunday. I'm to have my labs done at the hospital here on Friday, then have to run back to Longview. My next treatment (#8!!!!!!) will be on Monday, the 12th. This is working out well. Thanksgiving week will be a good one. Everyone is coming home, and I'll be doing the cooking. Can't wait. You know I have to have something to look forward to, and Thanksgiving is one of my very most favorite holidays!

I'm sorry I won't be able to see "the girls" on Tuesday night. They are getting together to play Bunko, and I am supposed to be a hostess. I'll still be hooked up to that nasty pump, so I will have to miss this time. Hopefully, next time the timing will be right.

I'm so grateful for all the phone calls I've received the past couple of weeks.

I'm grateful for the sunshine and beautiful fall weather we've been enjoying.

I'm grateful to have such a loving and supportive family and community to surround me at this time.

Starting the last 1/2

2007-10-26T22:24:00.000-05:00

I had a busy day today, it felt like old times! I started out with my usual errands, covered the P.O. , the bank, the beauty shop (you know I have to check in with Nancy!) and the flower shop all before 11:00 A.M.

My cousin Becky called, and was on her way in, so I rushed home. We had enough time for a quick visit, then had lunch at Don's store. I had a 1:30 appt. with Dr. Saez, so we hurried to the hospital.

The Dr.'s visit went really well. He is very kind and gentle, yet he seemed aggresive enough to help me keep the "C" word at bay for a while. He did an examination, and explained to me that the colon cancer chemos I've been on have all been helping the breast cancer. I had no idea. I am taking Arimadex, which is for breast cancer. I knew that the Avastin (prescribed for the colon cancer) will also treat breast cancer, but I had no idea that the other drugs will also fight breast cancer. What a relief! I thought the breast cancer was going to race ahead and beat me while I was giving my all to the colon fight.

I appreciated Dr. Saez's tactful bluntess. I WILL probably be on chemo off and on for the rest of my life. That doesn't mean that this disease is terminal, it just means that it can be treated. No one is guaranteed a certain number of years. I wake up everyday, and remind myself that I will die one day, but not today. Dr. Saez, really just re-affirmed my thoughts on mortality, and quality of life.

The good news is that I had my blood work done today, and Dr. Saez will see me in Mt. Pleasant on Monday for my 7th treatment. No more driving to Paris!!! I'll miss Dr. Wilcox, and her wonderful staff, but I'm so grateful we won't have that 2 hour round trip to make every other week.

The visit with Becky was fun. It was good getting caught up with her family. We've both been guilty of putting off visits! Our friend Clint came by this afternoon, and was able to stay a while. We agreed, I need to find "the purpose" of my life. I'm all ready thinking about what that might be.

Bryan came in for dinner tonight. He'll only stay until tomorrow afternoon. I'm just glad to see him, and grateful that he lives close enough to drive in for even a short visit.

I received two beautiful bound photo albums from Lynn this afternoon. Great Grandfather Frese, was an amauteur photographer. I had no idea! Lynn sent a wonderful collection of really old family photos, and a second batch of newer ones. We've all had fun looking through them, and marveling at how much some of our younger generations look like the older ones.

I need to wind this up, and get to bed. It seems like when the fatigue sets in these days, it hits me like a sledge hammer! lol

I am praying for the Kirkham Boys, I'm so sorry for the loss of their father. I only learned of it today. I continue to pray for my friends, families, and strangers who have been touched by this disease, and I praise God for my friends and neighbors who support us in this fight.

Scan Results

2007-10-24T09:42:00.000-05:00

Good news! Don spoke with the radiologist yesterday afternoon, and the scan looked great!
The malignant lymph nodes in my chest cavity have shrunk from 24 milimeters down to 13, which is normal size. The tumor on my eliac (sp) vein has totally disapeared! He couldn't find it anywhere. There is no other sign of any new growths!!!

I know it has to be a sign of the power of prayer.

I have 6 more treatments. We are going to speak with the doctor here in M.P., to see if future treatment can be given at the local hospital. The new cancer center is set to open on April 18, 2008. I hope by then that I won't be needing it!!!!!!

I walked last night with Don, and we both agreed that a weight had been lifted from our shoulders. This whole experience has been like a roller coaster. We just hold on and hope for the best.

The weather couldn't be more beautiful. With this little cool front the trees should start changing colors any day. I hope you all can get outdoors, and bask in the sunshine with the cool breeze washing over you. It is a real treat.

One of my cousins, Becky is coming up from Anahuac this Friday for a day visit. We never seem to be able to get together these days. I'm looking forward to seeing her.

I have to admit that I've learned a lesson through all of this. I used to live life planning 10-15 years ahead. There would always be time to see relatives and old friends later on. Now I think I really understand what living for today means. God tells us not to worry about tomorrow. I think I am finally getting it.

I continue to pray for Worthie, Judy, Tynus & D'Auan, Elizabeth & Wayne, Hollis & Debi, Paula & John, Mindi, all of my friends and those I don't know who are touched by the "C" word. It seems the prayer list grows daily. Please continue to pray for us.

Scan

2007-10-22T23:06:00.000-05:00

Please pray for me and my family. My first scan since beginning chemo is scheduled for 8:00 A.M., Tuesday Oct. 23. I'm scared to be honest.

1/2 Way

2007-10-18T21:01:00.000-05:00

It has been a good week! The cousins came in on Sunday, and we had a wonderful, if too short day!!! We enjoyed looking at pictures, and remembering our all too brief times together. Laura, Lynn, and Page haven't changed a bit. I caught myself just staring at them. I can't express how much this visit meant to me.

I had an extra 2 days off from chemo this week. Don drove me to Paris on Wednesday for my 6th treatment. I'm half way through! Red cells, and white cells were good. Come to find out, the Dr. has decreased my dosage to try to give the white cells a chance to catch up. I think it must be working.

The side effects haven't been as obvious. I'm having more "hot-flashes" than feeling a tenderness to cold. Just 6 more to go, I'm willing myself through it.
I've spent the last day and 1/2 in the bed. Now I know all about Rosie O'Donell. Thank y0u E-TV!!!!

I am scheduled to have a CT Scan on Tuesday. Please pray hard for good results. My CEA levels can't be tracked. We'll know if the chemo is working by the results of the CT Scan.

I continue to pray for all my friends who have been touched by this horrible disease.

Resting Up

2007-10-06T10:32:00.000-05:00

I guess I made it clear in my last post that I had to miss my last treatment in September. I was told to go home and enjoy myself. I'm still hunting for an answer to building white blood cells. Thanks to Don, we have the red cells covered!

If I was told once, I was told a million times to go home and enjoy life. How is that possible? I feel good, no pain. I rejoice in that, I am blessed. This could be SO MUCH worse. I talk to my children every day, and they are all doing well, happy is the word. Don is coping, and considering everything he is faced with, is handling this gracefully. I think enjoying life means staying in contact with all of the important people in your life. That has to be it. I have been able to visit with many good friends and family members over the past two weeks, and I couldn't be more grateful for that opportunity.

Lenice, my wonderful sister in law came to visit the last weekend in September. It was so good to see her again. We had "adventures" while she was here. Chocolate cake for breakfast and lunch is always a positive! I wish we lived closer, she is so much fun.

Don took me to Paris on Monday, October 1 for treatment. I didn't have to see the doctor. My red counts were perfect--the steak on Sunday night was the ticket! The white cells were still a little off, not as bad as the week before, but just a little down. I received a flu shot before my infusions. I slept through much of the treatment, woke myself up snoring. I didn't realize I snored!!!

I have pretty much stayed in the house this week. The sensitivity to cold wasn't a problem this time, it seemed I couldn't get cool enough. I haven't had as much of a problem with nueropathy either, I just didn't have the energy to get out. I guess you could say I bonded with the bed, E TV, the food network, and court tv. Ask me anything about Lindsey Lohan, Brittany, or Paris, I feel like I know them personally.

My next treatment is scheduled for Wednesday, October 17. This will be my mid-point treatment. I should be scheduled for a CT Scan at the end of October, to see if the treatment is working. In the meantime, Bryan is home this weekend, so things are looking up. The "cousin" visit will be here before I know it. I think Don is as excited as I am to see Lynn, Laura (what a surprise!) and Page. We are planning a Mexican food binge for the girls. I have plenty of book work to do, and Lenice loaded me up with must read books so I shouldn't be without projects for the next 2 weeks.

I continue to pray for my friends and everyone who might be touched by this disease. Please add the Fortner Family to your prayer lists. Jerrie was truly a wonderful lady, and I will miss her. Mindy Nobles, Judy, Worthie, Tynus, Hollis, Elizabeth, Wayne, John, and Paula, and their families consume my thoughts and prayers. There are just SO MANY, I know I've left someone out.
It can overwhelm me if I allow myself to think of all of the people who are touched by this horrible disease. There has to be a cure on the horizon. I continue to pray for that. It is what is keeping me going today.

Skipping Treatment

2007-09-24T16:05:00.001-05:00

I have had a good week. Bryan and Joe came in briefly on Thursday night. It might have been Friday morning, I'm really not sure. I got up at 5:00 am, and visited with them until 6:00 am, when they left on another road trip. Plans were to start out @ Graceland in Memphis, TN, then end up @ Wrigley Field for the last game of the season on Sun. night. They had other stops planned on the way. I'm not really sure where exactly they are now, I just know they will be back here Tuesday morning.

Saturday night Don and I had dinner at Luigi's. It was our first circle meeting for the year. It was good to see everyone again. It was a nice night.

Lana and I drove over to Paris for treatment this morning. My appointment was at 10:00. I finally got to see the Dr. about 11:15, and she told me I would not get chemo this week. It seems my white count is vera, vera, off! News to me, I've never felt better! The good news is that my red counts were good, and I've finally managed to gain a little weight. The Chemo Nazi says "NO CHEMO FOR YOU!"

Dr.'s orders for this week are for me to have a good time. I'm not in isolation or anything, I can go out to eat, or go shopping, whatever. I don't need to get on a plane, bus or, where everyone is crowded in, or be around anyone who is in the least bit sick, but I can get out, so I guess I'll just sit back and enjoy a second week in a row with no pump following me around!

My wonderful sister in law, Lenice is planning a trip up this weekend, and I hear that Johnny Rodriquez is performing at the fair this weekend. Talk about a blast from the past. Don and I used to dance to him back in our college days. Might have to go have a listen.

Please keep us in your prayers, we are going to get through this with God's help!!!

Annaleisa

Week 3 September 14-17

2007-09-17T15:34:00.000-05:00

Friday the 14th started off with a special surprise. A call from "Cousin" Lynn. It was wonderful to hear her happy voice again. You don't realize how much a voice, or tone can effect people until you hear them after a long absence. That might be why I prefer to call people rather than write or e-mail. I like to hear voices. She's planning a visit for October. She'll be driving in with Page. I'm so glad I'll be able to see them again. We'll have lots of catching up to do.
Friday afternoon I drove the 5 hour drive to Anahuac, TX. My hometown. Southeast Texas. The Alligator capital of Texas, and not published, but I've alway thought it might also be the mosquito capital of Texas. I went down for a mini class reunion, and the "Gatorfest".
Don decided it would be best if he stayed here, and in spite of all of my pleading he wouldn't be budged.
I'm going to try to add some pictures to this post later, but I need to find out from the kids how to add them. Computers really aren't my thing.
Bryan and Roddy Simpson met me down there, and we spent the day with Loy, Veggie, her precious Adrian, Cheryle and her family, Carol, Carolyn, Kathy, Dawn,Lee, Dee, Rusty,and Jim. I got to see David and Debbie, Donna and Donnie, Wayne and Elizabeth, Becky, Niki (one of my baby cousins, who has grown into a beautiful young lady) Aunt Joby, and Aunt Biddy. I'm sure I've left someone out. I don't mean too but it really was an overwhelming day.
The girls took a boat ride up the Trinity river. I had never seen the river from the bay up. Didn't realize there were so many cabins along the west bank. We spotted one alligator, but were told that most of them hide during the gatorfest. They might be smarter than we give them credit for!
The most fun part of the day was an airboat ride I took with Bryan and Roddy. We spun around, hit and flew over a mud bank, hit more water, spun some more, and it was over before I wanted it to be. It was a BLAST! I want to learn to drive one of those things. I kept yelling "make it go faster!"
We ate corny dogs, barbecue, drank lemonaide, had snow cones, and more or less grazed all day.
That night there was a concert "under the hill". I don't remember ever seeing that many people in Anahuac before. John A. Miller showed up, Mike Fountain was there, and I didn't recognize Curtis Smith. I'm sure I've left someone out. We all stayed in the back of a tent in the beer garden, so we didn't have to fight the crowd. I think everyone had a good time, I know I did. It was just so much fun seeing all of my old friends, and catching up after so many years.
Sunday morning I met my wonderful Carol Gary in Beaumont for lunch. She's celebrating a new career! Executive Director of the Beaumont Fire Museum. After lunch I was treated to a private tour of the museum, then a driving tour of downtown Beaumont. It sure looks different than I remembered. Of course I haven't been down there since probably the early '70's! We drove out to her house and I had a chance to see Wade, and meet Michael. We all had a fun visit, I haven't gotten to spend as much time with her as I would like, she has a sunshine personality, and can make any situation funny. She is really a special friend.
I got back to Mt. Pleasant around 10:00 Sunday night. Don met me with sad news. Our youngest dog, Ray Price, had been run over. We had planned on sending him up to Indiana, to champion him out. I think Don is more upset than he is trying to show. It is sad sitting on the deck and not hearing Ray constantly bark.
My Mom was a gracious hostess this weekend, she had dinner, breakfast, and lunch ready whenever anyone was ready. She put up with all the comings and goings patiently. Thanks Mom, and thanks for sharing your kitty with me for 2 nights.

Sept 10-13 Week 2

2007-09-17T14:59:00.000-05:00

The last time I had a treatment, my red counts were low. I couldn't get out of bed for most of that week. Don decided we'd try an experiment and I'd eat red meat before the next treatment. On Sunday night he grilled sirloin strips, medium rare. They were delicious!
I drove myself to Titus Regional Hospital here in Mt. Pleasant on Monday morning for my appointment with Dr. Wilcox. Believe it or not after the lab reports came back in we found out that my red count was normal! Don is really onto something, but I always knew he was highly intelligent!
I slept through most of the infusion, then drove myself home. The only side effect I had this time was being uncomfortably cold. I layered on the clothes, and gloves until I looked like a bag lady wearing everything she owns. I spent most of Tuesday in the bed, then it was steak time again. This time we tried rib-eyes, yum!
I went back to TRMC on Wednesday to have the pump removed. The chemo never really knocked me down this time. I was able to run errands on Thursday. It felt good to not loose a day this week. I'm pretty sure Don must be onto something with the red meat. We'll be trying it again next treatment week.

Sept.1-9 Week 1

2007-09-17T14:47:00.000-05:00

I'm going to have to break September into three posts. So much has been happening, I'm having a hard time keeping it all straight!
Sarah, Lee, and Bryan came in for Labor Day weekend. We didn't scare Lee off!!! It was a hoot. On Sunday, Danielle and her Brian came in for the day to swim and visit. They ended up staying the night. The boys all went hunting and the girls hung out on the deck. It was so much fun seeing Sarah and Danielle get all caught up.
The house cleared out Monday, and Tuesday Sarah and I went to Longview to do some shopping and have lunch. We had a really fun day, but I got a little sick on the way home that afternoon. I'm going to learn someday that just because a rueben sandwich sounds good, it's not necessarily such a good idea.
Tuesday was Don and my 31st anniversary. Imagine that! Sarah cooked shrimp scampi for us that night, while we had a little "date" on the deck.
On Wednesday, we had to take our little girl back to Dallas to catch her flight. I didn't cry this time, we'll be seeing her at Thanksgiving, and that will be here before we know it.
Stephanie and Alice came over Thursday night. It's always good to see friends, and we had a nice vistit. Don and I went to dinner on Saturday night with Barry and Lana. The Carson House is as good as I remembered it. I think the last time we were there was New Years Eve 2001.
So much for week 1, I'll continue with week 2 in the next post.

Coming Out of the Tunnel

2007-08-31T16:47:00.001-05:00

Don and I had a wonderful week last week. We went out to dinner with Barry and Lana on Friday night, Sunday night Jeanni and Colt came over and brought aspargus quiche, asparagus soup, and chicken noodle soup. I HAVE to have those recipes! Colt enjoyed the pool, and it was so much fun watching him have fun. Margaret came by Monday morning and brought a delicious pound cake. Mary Gail brought by some of Bob's famous chicken soup on Monday night. I had lunch out with Alice on Thursday, and Stephanie and Carla came by for a visit that afternoon. On Friday, I went to the shop, and helped with some funeral work. I actually got to work on two easels. It was good to be back. Nancy worked me in for a hair appointment, isn't it funny how good the beauty shop makes you feel? Maybe it's a girl thing. She is so funny. She has refilled my freezer with peas!!!! Yes, they are still very yummy, and I'm still going through them at a pretty good clip. Connie brought a big pot of vegetable soup in, and then made us some broccoli cheese soup. I walked three miles only once this past week. It was just too hot! I did swim quite a bit. Sunday afternoon Hazel brought her two grandbabies over to swim. They really had fun and it was entertaining just watching them enjoy the water.

On Monday Stephanie drove me to Paris for my third treatment. I've lost another pound. I don't get it. I have been eating more than I ever have and I just can't seem to keep the weight on. Believe me, my friends are keeping us well fed! I was glad to have the opportunity to visit with Stephanie. We had lost touch when I was going in to work everyday. She is lots of fun. The treatment went well. Dr Wilcox added some benadryl to the infusion so that I wouldn't break out in another rash. That seemed to help some. I only had two little places come through on my left arm this Thursday.

My red counts were low, but because I seemed to be in otherwise pretty good shape, and my white counts were normal, Dr. Wilcox went ahead with the treatment. I know now why you don't want to get chemo when your red counts are low. I couldn't get out of bed on Tuesday. Don cooked a steak and I was a little better on Wednesday, but I didn't truly rebound until this morning.

A funny new side effect hit me last Monday night. I HAD to have a milk shake. I talked Don into going into town for one, against his better judgement. I knew I needed to drink tiny sips, and do it slowly. It was good! When I went to tell Don good night, I couldn't talk. My tongue was frozen. I sounded like Sylvester the cat. It was so funny, that I had to try to say every word I could think of that started with an "s".

Sarah, Lee and Bryan will all be here this weekend. I haven't seen Lee since I was in the hospital. I hope we don't scare him off. I think Don and Bryan are planning to take him hunting. Welcome to East Texas Lee!

Sarah will get to stay until Wednesday, then it's back to Florida for her. Wish I could go with her. We are going to try to do some shopping, and other than that just hang out at the pool.

If I don't post much this next week, please forgive me again. I'm going to try to enjoy life as much as I can, and that might not include sitting in front of this computer. The sun is supposed to be out every day this next week!! I'm feeling strong, and continue to thank the Lord for all the blessings he has given me. Keep us in your prayers.

Round 2

2007-08-15T22:04:00.000-05:00

So far I'm making it through round 2. The infusion on Tuesday took about 4 hours. The doctor was running behind, and the chemo room was almost full. I got my full dose of Folfox, and it was followed with a 1 1/2 hour infusion of Avastin. I'm still wearing the pump with an IV of Fluorauracil. It will come off tomorrow at 12:30.
I felt pretty good yesterday, but woke up nauseated this morning. I just couldn't get going today. Late this afternoon I broke out in an itchy rash on both of my arms. The neuropathy is back. I'm drinking lukewarm liquids, eating lukewarm fruit, and wearing my leather gloves in the kitchen. Thank goodness it will probably be gone in a few days.
So now everyone knows that I'm really a closet whiner. Sorry. Tomorrow will be a better day.
Thank you all for your continued prayers, cards, and e-mails.

2007-08-09T21:49:00.000-05:00

What a wonderful day it has been. I rejoice and am glad in it.

Plans were to stay at home all day, and get caught up on my correspondence. I almost met that goal. I still have three letters to write, and I'll be up to date:). Now, if I can just get to the post office in the morning, I'll be doing all the good.

The weather is absolutely beautiful, the sky is blue. What more could anyone ask for? I didn't walk tonight, our friends Barry and Lana dropped by, and I was glad for the diversion. We are going to get together this weekend, so that's something to look forward to.

Connie will be here in the morning to help me with bookwork, and thank goodness Mom is still here to help me in the kitchen. I should be all set for next week, with a freezer full of Magic Mineral Broth, (thank you Lisa) and purple hull peas(thank you Debi)!

I am so grateful for a wonderful day like today.

Catch up

2007-08-07T21:32:00.000-05:00

I am so sorry I do not post more often than I do. I seem to get wrapped up in all I want to get done, and before I know it the day is gone! I am going to try to do better, but let me warn you--I don't really lead a very interesting life, so please bear with me, and I hope you don't get too bored!!!! ---
First of all I need to thank everyone who has posted, called, sent cards, or e-mailed us. You will never know what that small gesture on your part has meant to me and Don. It is such a joy to pick up the mail, check the blog or e-mail, and receive a note. The small things you all continue to do have sustained us. We are amazed and humbled at the outpouring of love that is being shown to us. ---
Now, let me make this perfectly clear. My first round of chemo was wretched. That about sums it up. The tingling in my fingers lingered until Monday of this week. Today is the first day I have been able to drink anything with ice in it comfortably. Enough of my whining. ---
I started feeling a little better by Friday afternoon last week. Saturday was a little better than Friday, and Bryan came home! Don and Bryan had guys night out and went to see the Bourne Ultimatum. They both gave the movie two thumbs up. I'm so glad Don got to go do something fun for a change. It seems that his life is all about taking care of everyone else. He is absolutely the best husband, and son anyone could ever hope for. I am so fortunate. ---
Sunday morning I woke up and felt like a human being is supposed to feel. It was wonderful! I put my suit on and got in the pool for the first time in two years. Marvelous!!!!!! I had floated around for about an hour and a half, when I got a sympathy call from the funeral home. Only another florist can appreciate what that really means. I had to go! I had no idea what we had in stock, I'm officially out of the loop. I took care of the family, and was greening up their order, when Felecia came in and rescued me. The neuropathy in my hands was still giving me some trouble, so everytime I picked up a piece of greenery I felt like electric shocks were running through my fingers. ---
When I got home Mom had lunch ready. I ate like a farm hand. Pot roast, with all the trimmings, and fresh peas, absolutely yummm!!!!!! I don't think I've told many people about this, but, I discovered last week that whenever peas are cooking my mouth starts watering. I can't eat them fast enough, or often enough. Thank goodness they are in season now.
Sunday was good. ---
Monday, Don, Mom, and I went to Dallas to see Dr. Crim, the colon surgeon. He did his final post op exam, and cleared me for six months, or the end of chemo, which ever comes first. I always feel so much better after seeing him. His attitude is so positive. ---
After the appointment, we stopped by Central Market and did a little shopping. My friend Lisa McDaniel gave me a wonderful cookbook for cancer survivors called "One Bite at Time". I couldn't wait to try the recipes, but some of the ingredients are hard to find in Mt. Pleasant. We got everything we need to make "Magic Mineral Broth", and that's on my to do list for Wednesday. ---
Today, Tuesday August 7, has been a blessing I won't take lightly. I started out at 7:00 this morning by making my to do list. Unfortunately, I didn't get it all done, but it will carry over. Mom ran errands with me this morning, and we got everything done by 11:15. I put my suit back on, and rested by the pool for a while this afternoon, until my friend Debbie Newman came over bearing a whole bushel of peas!!!! We got to catch up, and celebrate her good news. Her husband, Hollis, who was diagnosed with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML) is now officially in remission!!!!! YEAH!!!!!!!! He is such an inspiration. He picked all those peas this morning, what a guy! ---
Mom, Hazel, and I shelled peas until late this afternoon. My mouth started watering while I was doing that too. I think I must be pea obsessed. When Don got home we walked a mile, and I felt like I could have gone more, but our friend Ronnie dropped by and we stopped, grateful for the company. I'm slowly working back to 2 miles. We finished the evening off with another quick swim which was really refreshing!---
I am so grateful for today. God has truly blessed me. I have not felt this good since February! I can't wait till tomorrow. I'm gonna finish that list and start a new one!

Feeling a bit better

2007-08-03T08:35:00.000-05:00

First round of chemo was Monday. I received a 3 hour IV, of what the Dr. calls "Folfax". It is a recipe of 3 different types of chemo drugs. When the office infusion finished, they hooked me up to a portable pump, and I came home with a 42 hour dose attached to me. It wasn't quite the piece of cake I thought it might be.
By that afternoon I was already feeling some of the side effects. I couldn't eat or drink anything the least bit cold, and I could not reach into the fridge without gloves on. Didn't I look a sight, 90 degrees outside, and I'm wearing black leather gloves! The nausea held off until Wed. morning when we were able to go to the local hospital and have the pump removed. I guess it was a delayed reaction, but by Thursday, I couldn't get out of bed, and could barely open my eyes.
Now it's Friday :) I feel much better! Bryan is coming in for the weekend and Mom is here watching over us. I'm looking forward to visiting with friends, and just enjoying the sunshine!
I will be going in for the next treatment on Tuesday, August 14., so I will have a week of feeling good ahead.

Before Ports, We Have Airports...

2007-07-25T22:05:00.000-05:00

This is an interactive blog. Some of the words in the blog are links... click the link and an associated picture will pop up in a new window.

I have been so pleased with the resurgence of Mom's energy as she recovers from the surgery. Over the past week, she has seemed as though she were going stir crazy from lack of activity. Since her port was not scheduled to be installed until Tuesday (the 24th), I suggested that she make a quick trip to Florida for a little R&R. To my excitement she accepted the invite!

On Friday, I had to work a little bit, so Mom got acquainted with my building. She especially loved the meditation garden on the 6th floor. There is a gazebo overlooking the New River, and Mom adored the purple flowers that covered it. She also liked watching the boats out front... and the view. She said that she can see how the view causes me to reflect and think about things. It's very theraputic.

After I finished my work, we went for a little tour of the area, and ended up back at my favorite restaurant on Ft. Lauderdale Beach. It is called Spazio, and we were able to snag a table on the sidewalk, and enjoy the weather, the beach and the people watching. There were sailors in town this weekend, so we got a kick out of talking to them. How DO YOU keep those pants to incredibly white?!

On Saturday, we drove up to Palm Beach and checked out Donald Trump's house. Even though we weren't able to drive up to the gates, we could tell that it was quite garish, but that was to be expected. Apparently it's not a house at all, but a private club.

After Palm Beach, we cruised back down South to Hollywood and visited the Hard Rock Casino. That was a real treat. Mom had asked several times how close I was to the casino, especially after all of the circus with Anna Nicole had started. The weather wasn't great, so it was a perfect time to check out an indoor attraction. Something really funny happened as we walked in, but I don't think I could do it justice on a blog. It's the kind of story that needs to be told in person. Ask Mom about it when you see her next.

On Sunday, we had the most active day yet. We spent the afternoon in South Beach. That's right, Mom went to South Beach. :-) The weather was still pretty dreary, so we were really lucky to get a great parking spot. We walked up and down the main drag and ranked our favorite buildings. The Tides Hotel was magnificent. Then we got to see Versace's pad. Wow.

When we got back to Ft. Lauderdale, we had just enough time to take a boat tour before dinner. It was the perfect way to end the day. The tour took us from the dock near my apartment, through downtown, then a residential area, then the beach area, then Port Everglades. We got to see more boats, big houses, 2 battleships, an aircraft carrier and a nuclear submarine. I'd say it was a full tour. lol.

On the last night, I cooked dinner for Mom, Matt (my roommate) and Bohdan (my neighbor and best friend's husband). Of course, Mom being a mom, she needed a picture of the three of us at the dinner table... to show my dad that we are a respectable lot. lol. We sure fooled her... or something.

Without a doubt, this trip was a great decision for all of us. I was amazed at Mom's energy... we had a blast... it was a great bonding experience... and now Mom knows that the quicker she gets better the quicker she can come back. :-) I'm really looking forward to the next visit.

Since her return to Texas, she has had her port installed in her chest. She was lucky enough to get just a single port, so that it wouldn't be so intrusive. I see that as a good sign. The treatments will begin next week, and we're all really nervous about how she will respond to them. I sure hope that they don't make her too terribly ill. I know that she loves hearing from everyone, so maybe if we band together and send her lots of lovely messages she will not get so sick off of the chemo. It's worth a shot! :-) Thanks again for all of your support... and a BIG SPECIAL thank you to Lenice. I don't know if I could have gotten Mom here without your help.

2007-07-16T21:04:00.000-05:00

Don drove me to Paris, TX this morning to meet with Dr. Celeste Wilcox. She is my oncologist, and I think we'll be a good fit. The game plan is as follows: I'll be going to Titus Regional for one more CT Scan, so that she will know my "architecture". Next Tuesday, the 24th, I'll have my port installed. After that I'll be going to Paris every 2 weeks for treatments.

Right now, we are looking at 6 rounds of 4 treatments each. I probably won't loose my hair, most don't on these particular drugs, so that's good news. There is medication for nausea, so I won't be worrying about that. I will probably be pretty fatigued, but that will only mean that the medicine is working.

The people who are closest to our family will remember Useless. She was Joey's dog, a bull dog mix who someone dropped at our driveway, a complete stray, who befriended our family, and ended up living the Life of Riley!

She had her own chair in every room. She really was a wonderful dog. She hated snakes, and protected our family many times over from water mocassins, and copperheads. The first time she was bitten, the snake got her on her face. She swelled up like a hippopotamus. We took her to the vet for a shot and she ended up looking like a pelican.

She chased the cows one time too many, and Don hit her on her head with a fence tool. It just bounced off. Another time she chewed up a plastic bottle of finger nail polish remover, and chased it down with a steel wool pad, it didn't even slow her down.

She was famous for sneaking food off the counter, or wherever she could find it. Chocolate cakes and brownies were favorites, but she couldn't resist Williams Fried Chicken. She could down a whole bucket in under 30 seconds.

I think I must be like Useless. I keep bouncing back. I don't know if a purebred could be quite as resilient. Useless lived to be about 15 years old. She was one lucky dog!

2007-07-13T19:05:00.000-05:00

I am so humbled by the concern of my friends and neighbors. The cards received have been greatly appreciated. Your prayers continue to make me strong.

We are now walking a mile every evening - weather permitting! I'm beginning to get bored with staying home so much, but don't really have a choice since my girls have "laid me off". Monday afternoon, I was told to go home from the shop, they had it covered and did not need my help. Can a boss be laid off? I am trying to make myself useful by helping with bookwork here at home. I also have piles of correspondence that I am working on.

Dr. Crim's visit went well. I will be going to the oncologist on Monday. Hopefully this will start the ball rolling, and we can move forward with treatment. It seems that cancer is a hurry up and wait disease. Anyone who knows me, knows that patience is not one of my gifts. Could this be God's way of showing me how to wait?

2007-07-05T15:22:00.001-05:00

Just got back from Dallas, and thanks to Dr. Clifford I'm now staple free! Yeah!!!!!!!!!!! He said the tissue surrounding the tumor on my liver looked clear, really good news.
Will go back on Monday to see Dr. Crim, then we'll deal with whatever comes next. I'm ready for whatever gets thrown at me.

2007-07-04T08:02:00.000-05:00

So, I've been thinking for the past two weeks about how very fortunate I am. I grew up in a tiny town. There were less than 2,000 people in my town. That meant that I went to school with about 73-75 people, from the time I was 9 or 10 years old, all the way through high school. When you know people for that long, you generally feel a bit closer to them, you know their families, their grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc. I always thought I had 73+ brothers and sisters.

I moved to Mt. Pleasant in 1976. That's 31 years ago. I was the first "Nelson Granddaughter" to leave Chambers County. No small feat! Anyway, I've now been in Titus County, longer than I ever lived in Chambers County. Don and I have raised our family here. I have two hometowns.

The first visitors I had while in the hospital were Anahuac "Sisters and Brothers". Mike and Dale came in, and Cheryle, whom I had not seen in over 30 years came by. I am so fortunate. They made me laugh, and forget all about everything. It was like we were back in high school without a care in the world. The next day I think it was, 2 more Anahuac Sisters, Loy and Veggie came by. They both live in the Austin/Temple area now, but drove up for the day. I have seen Loy and Veggie several times over the years, but my heart always feels lighter when they are around, they have known me too long for me to be anything other than Annaleisa.
Since I've been home, I've received calls from Lee, another Anahuac Brother, who now lives in Huntsville, AL., and Debbie, who is in Anahuac. We are making plans to try to all get together in Anahuac at the Gator Fest this fall. Every time I talk to any of these special people, I feel a bit stronger.

I have also had the luxury of a large extended family. Cousins! My favorite "partner in crime", as a child was my cousin Lynn. I guess it was because of all my cousins, we were the closest in age, I don't know, maybe it was just devious minds!! As we grew older, Lynn and her family moved overseas, and I did not get to spend as much time with the Ashby cousins as I would have liked. They were always so much fun, a mob! Then there was Page. Page is my "baby" cousin. She grew up in Houston, which isn't far from Anahuac, so we got to spend quality time with her, and her family while we were all growing up. Page showed up at the hospital. She now lives near the Dallas area. Isn't it funny how God puts people in our paths. She is such a comfort. I received an e-mail from Lynn last night, I'm hoping that we can re-connect soon.

When I returned home from the hospital, I was over-whelmed with the number of cards that were waiting for us. I say us because at this point, my whole family is involved in this fight. Friends and acquaintances from all over the country, flower industry friends, old family friends, people I barely know. The wonderful people in Mt. Pleasant, brought in food to nourish us, and we can feel the prayers that surround us. When I think about all of the good wishes that continue to flow our way, I truly feel stronger.

2007-07-03T07:34:00.000-05:00

It's been 12 days since the surgery, and I'm finding it hard to believe I'm seriously ill. I have not felt this strong in months. The only discomfort is from the staples that are holding me together, and that discomfort is not bad!

I am trying to walk every day. It's been difficult with the nasty weather we have been having, but I managed a 1/2 mile on Saturday afternoon. I'm still trying to get out of the house for at least an hour a day. I've been running errands every morning. I think the key is, pacing myself. I've been taking a nap everyday around 2:00-4:00, and I'm able to actually stay awake for the 10:00 news most nights.

Sarah had to go back to Florida on Saturday, and my heart still hurts for her, we had the best visit we ever have. I'm so blessed to be her mother! Joe will be leaving today at noon for Clovis, NM, Pops will really miss him. He has taken Pops on several drives, and just sat and visited with him. Bryan came in Monday afternoon, and will be here until Wednesday, we always laugh, and have fun when Bryan is around, he will be the one to transition us back into empty nest.

The next big day is Thursday, July 5. I'll keep you all posted, please keep your fingers crossed for us! Maybe I'll get lucky and can get rid of these staples.

I'm Home, I'm Home !

2007-06-28T10:10:00.000-05:00

Well, our hopes and dreams came through Wednesday morning. Dr. Crim's associate, Dr. Hurley gave us our dismissal papers. Other than a reminder to come back in on July 5, for post-operative check up, all's clear.

It is wonderful to be home, the dogs were so excited, but I'm a little afraid of them right now. They tend to jump (well, they are hounds!), and I'm afraid they'll hurt me. That makes me a little sad. I've always had so much fun with them.

Miss Sarah Boggs is still here, thank goodness ! I think we'll have 2 more days before she has to get back to her real life. Joe will be coming in some time tomorrow. He always tries to be here for the fireworks display. I'm not sure how long his visit will be, and Bryan will be coming in Sunday night. Our revolving door is slowly starting to work again. That's something else to be grateful for.

The Waiting Game... still in RM 663

2007-06-27T09:10:00.000-05:00

Hm. Waiting. This is the second day of waiting. I don't think we've ever been so anxious to receive a dismissal. The doctor has been hinting around since Monday morning. Of course, there is a course of action to be taken before the goal can be achieved, but we're almost there.

The blood transfusion on Monday is the best example I have ever seen of an unpleasant situation that is necessary for a pleasant outcome. On top of the expected anxiety over having foriegn blood pumped into her veins, the nurses were havng a rough time with the IV spots. Then the transfusion took HOURS longer than expected. First, there was the vein flush. Then antibiotic... flush... blood... flush... antibiotic... flush... blood... flush... antibiotic... UGH! Poor Mom's veins are just pooped. So are her nerves.

Yesterday was pleasant, as Mom was feeling better. It was amazing to see how quickly the transfusion helped her recovery. As the day wore on, our impending impatience set in. LOL. Here is a synopsis of the day... wake up... walk... eat... walk... visit... check vitals... sit... eat... walk... check vitals... visit... walk... check vitals... eat... walk... sit... you get the picture. Mom is growing weary of the redundancy, and misses home.

It is now 9:30am on Wednesday, and we are waiting on the doctor. Hopefully for a dismissal. Hopefully...

~Sarah

Scary Times & Skylines

2007-06-25T18:46:00.000-05:00

Tonight I'm writing from the waiting room on the Oncology Floor. There is a beautiful view from this room. Even though we are in Dallas, I can see trees for miles and miles. The skyline is in the distance, and reminds me very much of the Miami skyline from my bedroom in Ft. Lauderdale. It is funny that I should choose this spot, after admitting how the Miami skyline contributed to my decision to come here for these weeks. I love looking at skylines... they remind me of how far we have come... and how far we have yet to go. They conjure up a ton of questions that I wouldn't otherwise have considered.

While I'm looking at the Dallas skyline, I can see rain clouds passing over... at any given moment, there is a portion of the city that is completely hidden by the rain. Then everything goes clear, but only for a moment. Then another cloud passes over, and the cycle resumes. I can only imagine the amount of people inside of those buildings that are affected by these clounds. This reminds me very much of Mom's recovery.

We had a tough day today. Mom started out stronger than ever. She was already awake and was finished with breakfast when I regained consciousness this morning. Sunny times. The doctor came to visit, and informed us that Mom would need a transfusion today. She was much less than excited about this. It was as though the rain cloud was beginning to cast shadows... then the nurses took longer than expected to get the transfusion started. The catheter stayed in, despite the doctor's promise to have it removed today. At 1:30, the transfusion STILL hadn't started. The doctor forgot to mention that an order of antibiotics must be administered prior to the transfusion. Mom's IV spot went bad, and we were limited on options... resulting in several bruises and a frustrated family. The rain was pouring.

It is now almost 7pm, and Mom has finished her 1st transfusion. She is resting quietly, and says that she feels physically better than before... the sun has come out again. Hopefully it will stay for awhile this time... I'll be sure and keep you posted tomorrow...

~Sarah

Oncology Ward? Or Penthouse Suite? RM 663

2007-06-24T22:23:00.000-05:00

In RM 673 on Saturday evening, Mom's new nurse began acquainting us with the new accommodations in what she called, the Oncology Floor. The room was a walk-in closet at best, but a bit closer to the size of a shoe box. There was barely enough room for the bed, and opening/closing the door was out of the question. Because we understood that the hospital was almost at capacity, we did not complain... but asked to be placed on a waiting list for a more spacious room if available.

As I left with a friend to grab dinner, I noticed a room being cleaned. Viola! By the time I returned from dinner, everything had been moved and arranged in what we call The Penthouse. This room is far superior to the last. We are now in a large private room, that has a fabulous view of the Dallas skyline & enough space for a cot and lots of company. :-) It's a good thing that we got moved, because Mom had lots of visitors today!

Seeing everyone really gave her a burst of energy, and she was able to get up and walk 2 times! Also, Dr. Crim has agreed to let Mom eat a liquid diet, which is a step up from the clear liquid meals of yesterday. We are already making a list of things that she wants to eat as soon as she gets clearance...

1. A warm donut
2. 2 fried eggs w/ toast
3. Watermelon slices
4. Purple hulled peas w/ cornbread
5. Seems to have slipped my mind... I'll have to ask her in the morning.

It looks like I'm going to have some serious cooking to do before returning to Florida next weekend! Lol.

~Sarah

ps. Thanks to everyone who has called, written and visited! My brothers and I are reading the emails aloud to Mom each day... it always brings a smile to her face. Thanks for the support!!!! ♥

Settled Again... RM 673

2007-06-23T16:26:00.000-05:00

We are now settled in a new room on the 6th floor. This is the Oncology Floor, and all of the nurses are very compassionate. Mom was praised for being so motivated to move, and for choosing such a strong group of doctors. It seems that Dr. Krim is quite the celebrity around here. :-)

The room is quite cramped, but we are on a waiting list for the next available large room (we didn't even have to suggest the move, the nurses offered!). I'll say it again, this hospital is awesome.

~Sarah

Good Progress... moving today...

2007-06-23T11:10:00.001-05:00

So, I can tell that Mom is feeling better because she is getting antsy in bed. The nurses came in this morning and let us know that today will be a big day. Mom has been promised some juice (finally), and maybe some stock. :-) I can tell that she is feeling better, because she is getting antsy in bed. lol. She slides the bed up and down, then back up again. I'm so glad that she is regaining her strength!

Also, as soon as one is available, she will be moving to a room on a less intensive floor. Hooray! She is sitting up, checking her email on her own, and has been so pleasantly surprised by all of your sweet messages.

I will make another post shortly and let everyone know where she moves.

~Sarah

SUCCESS!!! Now in Rm 319...

2007-06-21T23:37:00.000-05:00

So, it's now almost midnight and Mom is resting peacefully. She is amazingly coherent, considering the day she has had! I'm very much surprised at how pulled together she is after the surgery.

The procedure went very well today. The doctors removed all of the colon cancer, as well as the affected lymph nodes in her abdomen (including one that was very close to her aorta!). Also, we were especially relieved to learn that the doctors were able to remove 100% of the affected part of her liver. It turned out to be 5cm! That was an especially delicate portion of the procedure... we hear that the liver processes a gallon of blood/minute! Thank God that the tumor was growing in an area that experiences the lowest blood pressure, and no main vessels were affected. No blood transfusion was needed.

There is only one small tumor remaining, that was located on a vein that was difficult to remove. We are very proud that the doctors honestly evaluated the situation and decided that the spot was too dangerous to remove. Instead, they clipped the tumor, and it will be eradicated with radiation.

After the procedure, she was transferred directly from the recovery room to her private room. No ICU. The hospital staff has been top-notch all the way. During the procedure, they gave phone updates every hour. They are all quite personable and accommodating. I couldn't be more pleased with the service, accommodations and care Mom is receiving. If you ever have a family member that is undergoing similar circumstances, I 100% reccommend Baylor Medical Center in Irving!

~Sarah

In Surgery Now...

2007-06-21T13:54:00.000-05:00

Mom is now in surgery, and we have received a preliminary report from the doctors. Everything seems to be going as scheduled, 30 minutes into the procedure.

She has a strong support group at her side, with Dad, Bryan and I. Also, her Mom and Dad. Lenice (Dad's sister) has come to support him, along with Mindi Brown, who is very close to the family and Danelle Folowell, who is personally familiar with the battle. I feel very lucky to have such a strong support group for my mom, and also to have people who can relate to the fears of the family members individually...

Mom's Post on FlowerChat

2007-06-21T13:49:00.000-05:00

When I showed Mom her blog, she showed me a post that she had written on her Flower Chat. Flower Chat is an online community for florists across the world to commune and talk about the business, and their lives in general... she wanted me to share this on her blog as well...

~Sarah

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

On Thursday, May 24, I was notified that biopsies done on my breast had come back positive. OH MY GOD! I have cancer.

The following day I went into the hospital to have a colonoscopy. This procedure had nothing to do with the mammogram, or earlier biopsy. It was just time to have it done. The surgeon told me when I woke up that I had a tumor in my colon, and he was almost certain that it also was malignant. Twice in two days!!!!

I have since had a pet scan, which showed us that I have a malignancy on my liver, in the lymph nodes in my chest, the tumor in my colon is in fact malignant, and the breast cancer is lobular, rather than glandular, which means it is scattered.

So here I am, three weeks later. I am still numb, I'm stunned, I don't know what I am.

I will be going into the hospital next week, to have the colon cancer removed, and my colon resectioned. Thank God for modern medicine. At the same time, a second surgeon will be working on my liver.

I am looking at being in the hospital for about a week, then I will be facing 4-5 months of chemo. Followed by more surgery.

Life at the flower shop has stopped for me, for now. I just don't have the stamina that is required to be there. Thank goodness for the wonderful ladies who work for me. They are keeping the place going, and running it like it was their own. The doctors have assured us that I will be back. This is all treatable.

I have always tried to live my life by the saying that God expects great things of those to whom great gifts are given. That has always pulled me through many hard times.

A while back, someone posted the following meditation. It moved me to tears the first time I read it, and I immediately wrote it down. I have carried it with me ever since. I have been repeating it all day today, and I need to thank whoever wrote it.

"It takes patience to trust
courage to fear not
confidence to have faith
strength to be at peace"

Please keep my family and friends in your prayers. And please, please, take care of your health, get your recommended yearly check ups so that maybe you can all avoid this nightmare.

Annaleisa

Surgery Scheduled

2007-06-19T09:47:00.000-05:00

So, are hard at work getting everything situated for Mom's surgery. The appointment has been set for this Thursday, June 21st, at Baylor Medical Center in Irving. We will arrive early in the morning, and the surgery is scheduled to begin at noon.

There are not many facts surrounding the surgery. We know that the colon tumor will be removed, and hope that the liver tumor will be removed as well. Because we don't yet know the severity of the liver tumor, it is impossible to tell whether it will be possible to remove it. The breast surgery will take place at a later date (probably November-ish).

hello?

2007-06-19T00:35:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to see about posting to this thing.

The Cry, The Battle, & The Battle Cry.

2007-06-19T00:32:00.000-05:00

THE CRY:
"Little Girl, we have some bad news."

My dad's voice echoes in my head. After that sentence, everything went numb... blank. When the dust settled, I had absolutely no recollection of the time between hearing those words and hearing my alarm clock. It was Tuesday, May 29. I had "lost" 5 days.

Later, I would learn that I had embarked on 5 days of uncharacteristically rash behavior. I had walked out on my job... and didn't care. I had cancelled a date with one of the most eligible 20-somethings in South Florida... and didn't care. I had stood up my friends on a slew of social events that had been planned months before... you know the drill. The point is, I had not budged from my apartment. Nobody came in... I didn't answer my phone...

A few days later, I heard the same words again... this time I remember. The cancer had not been detected early. It was not "necessarily" terminal. What kind of a thing is that to say? Although those words were meant to encourage, they stung... they stung badly.

I lost it. This wasn't fair. Not my mom. My mom, who worked so diligently to give her kids a healthy upbringing? I have no idea how my brothers handed it. The only words we were able to share on the topic were, "This sucks." The only person who could console me was my mother herself, and that was unacceptable. Because I must be strong for her, the crying had to stop. This was the cry.

THE BATTLE:
After countless hours of sitting at the desk in my bedroom, watching airplanes take off and land at the Ft. Lauderdale Airport, I knew only one thing. I needed to go home. This was unacceptable. My mother is going through the toughest battle of her life, and I am 1,500 miles away. Completely unacceptable.

My parents raised a strong, willing, and brave family. It is time for us to fight... for mom. Our enemy is one of the most feared out there, but together we will prevail. We have recruited a strong team of doctors, who will guide us through the process. They will be our strategists. My dad will be the leader. My mom the strength. My brothers and I will offer support to them in any way we can.

Even though our full battle plan has yet to be determined, our first attack has. On Thursday, Mom will have her first surgery. The cancer will be removed from her colon, and we hope that it will be removed from her liver as well. Since we don't really know how far the cancer has grown on her liver, we can't tell whether it will be fully removed.

Our second attack will be chemical warfare. Chemo. More to come on this later. This is the battle.

THE BATTLE CRY:
Since our frightening discovery, friends, family and well-wishers have come out of the woodworks. I cannot tell you how much this means to us. I appreciate all of the tidbits we are offered from survivors of cancer, families affected by the enemy, or just a simple smile that lets us know that you support our plight. You will be the fuel that keeps our battle going when we get down. This will be the battle cry.

Please, feel free to visit this blog for updates, to give comments, share stories, and/or offer support. I will update the information frequently, to make sure that everyone has first-hand information.

With this battle cry, we will win our battle and the crying will stop.

~Sarah