Live 4 Him
Live 4 Him
Latest CT results
I know it's been a while since I've updated my blog so it'll take a while to get caught up. Steph and I just got back from visiting my mom and dad in Florida. The sunshine felt SOOOOO good. We mainly just hung out at the pool and caught rays all week. One day was cloudy, so we went shopping with Mom and visited her quilting group. It was a terrific week with lots of warmth and sunshine. Today, in contrast we had snow, drizzle, and now more snow is expected in the next two days. Living in Wisconsin is definitely not for wimps.
Now for the cancer update. Sit back and relax, because there's a lot to tell. At about the beginning of January I got CT scan results back and the news wasn't to good. The good news was that one of my tumors shrunk, due to the new drug Avastin that I started in November. I am continuing that drug in the hopes of getting it to shrink even more. The bad news is that the tumor in my liver grew 10 mm in just two months while being on chemo. We were very discouraged because now the tumor is over 52 mm (about the size of a tennis ball). My oncologist consulted with some radiologists about the possibility of surgery and cutting off the blood supply to the tumor. However, the procedure requires me to be off chemo for 3-4 weeks which gives all of the other "seeds" in my system to grow. Also, there probably isn't enough liver left to sustain me through chemo after the procedure. So, I started a new chemo drug, Topotecan, about a month ago. It is going well and I have a few side effects, but nothing major. Topotecan is the last drug in the arsenal again ovarian cancer that I haven't been on yet, so we are hoping and praying that it will work. I will get another CT scan at the end of Feb. or March. I also had one more setback. Just two weeks ago, I went to Milwaukee for a check-up with my Gyn/Oncologist. He found a new tumor that wasn't there three months ago. So, not only did my existing tumor grow larger, but another one popped up. It is deep in my pelvic cavity and is just minding its own business. That is a great thing. We just never know when and where those nasty tumors will show up.
I am amazed and awed at how God has continually met our needs through this cancer journey. Not just mine, but also the needs of the rest of the family as well. Just when the girls needed a lift, a good friend would call them or just hang out with them. They both have friends that they can confide in. Rog continues to be a big mush through all of this, but again has had friends to lift him up when he needs it. Our pastors have been very faithful in helping the girls and Rog cope with the changing and ongoing needs here on the home front. Our physical needs have been taken care of by the many meals that people have brought over. We even have plenty to put in the freezer for a rainy (or rather snowy) day. Please pray for my family, that they can continue to be strong as we deal with an uncertain future. Also, pray that my liver will continue to function despite the strain of a tumor. God answers prayer, yet not always in the way we would expect or want. We continue to believe in miracles. Each morning I wake up is proof that "This is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it."
Now for the cancer update. Sit back and relax, because there's a lot to tell. At about the beginning of January I got CT scan results back and the news wasn't to good. The good news was that one of my tumors shrunk, due to the new drug Avastin that I started in November. I am continuing that drug in the hopes of getting it to shrink even more. The bad news is that the tumor in my liver grew 10 mm in just two months while being on chemo. We were very discouraged because now the tumor is over 52 mm (about the size of a tennis ball). My oncologist consulted with some radiologists about the possibility of surgery and cutting off the blood supply to the tumor. However, the procedure requires me to be off chemo for 3-4 weeks which gives all of the other "seeds" in my system to grow. Also, there probably isn't enough liver left to sustain me through chemo after the procedure. So, I started a new chemo drug, Topotecan, about a month ago. It is going well and I have a few side effects, but nothing major. Topotecan is the last drug in the arsenal again ovarian cancer that I haven't been on yet, so we are hoping and praying that it will work. I will get another CT scan at the end of Feb. or March. I also had one more setback. Just two weeks ago, I went to Milwaukee for a check-up with my Gyn/Oncologist. He found a new tumor that wasn't there three months ago. So, not only did my existing tumor grow larger, but another one popped up. It is deep in my pelvic cavity and is just minding its own business. That is a great thing. We just never know when and where those nasty tumors will show up.
I am amazed and awed at how God has continually met our needs through this cancer journey. Not just mine, but also the needs of the rest of the family as well. Just when the girls needed a lift, a good friend would call them or just hang out with them. They both have friends that they can confide in. Rog continues to be a big mush through all of this, but again has had friends to lift him up when he needs it. Our pastors have been very faithful in helping the girls and Rog cope with the changing and ongoing needs here on the home front. Our physical needs have been taken care of by the many meals that people have brought over. We even have plenty to put in the freezer for a rainy (or rather snowy) day. Please pray for my family, that they can continue to be strong as we deal with an uncertain future. Also, pray that my liver will continue to function despite the strain of a tumor. God answers prayer, yet not always in the way we would expect or want. We continue to believe in miracles. Each morning I wake up is proof that "This is the day that the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it."
Merry Christmas
I hope that all who are reading this had a great Christmas. It is truly a time to celebrate all of the miracles that God has given us, including His son Jesus. I had the privilege of writing the Christmas Eve candlelight service for my church. I focused on the miracles of Christmas- peace, God's son Jesus,joy, faith, love, and hope. We can hear the Christmas story year after year, yet there are still so many nuggets of truth that we can draw from Jesus' birth.
We got together with my side of the family on the weekend before Christmas at a hotel. It was lots of fun. Then everyone came over on Sun. for the Packers-Bears game. Since my older brother is a Bears fan, it was fun. He was very gracious about the Bears tromping us and didn't even rub it in too much. On Christmas Eve, after church, we gathered at Roger's parents' house for Christmas with his side of the family. Again, it was so great to be together, joking around, laughing and eating good food. We are blessed beyond measure. Christmas morning we went to church and then had the day with just our family. I put in a ham and potatoes and we had a yummy meal. Then we played games, watched videos, or just lazed around all afternoon. I really needed the down time after a few days of excitement.
On Wednesday I went back to reality and had treatment with just the Avastin. It doesn't give me many side effects, so I've had a pretty good week. We got the results of my CT scan that I had done right before Christmas. There is good news and bad news. First of all the good news- one of my tumors, the one on the left side of my abdomen, has shrunk quite a bit. We are glad for that because I was having some discomfort and some signs of partial bowel obstruction from it pushing down on my bowels. The bad news is that the tumor in my liver has grown about 10mm, which is a fair amount. So, even with the chemo and the Avastin it is stubborn enough to keep going. It is now almost the size of half my liver, so we need to do something before my liver starts to shut down. One treatment option is to put a catheter into my liver and shoot the chemo right into the tumor. The liver has two blood supplies, so we can cut off one and essentially kill off almost half of my liver. The liver is the only organ that can regenerate, so that is lucky for me in this case. My Dr. needed some time to research the options and consult with a radiologist. We can call him later this week to find out more info, so I will keep you posted. At this time we just know that my treatment will change, but we don't know how yet.
I'm struggling with uncertainty again. I'm a planner, and now I just don't know again how things will go. I try not to dwell on the questions right now, but that's hard. I've gotten used to my chemo routine and it's predictability. There is a certain comfort in knowing what to expect. I know why cancer patients live in the moment, because the future is so uncertain. However, I know that my spiritual life is certain and predictable. I can rest assured and be at peace knowing my eternal future. No matter what's in store for me in the coming weeks, my Lord will never leave my side. He is with me everywhere- the chemo room, the hospital, at home. What a comfort that is! So, I guess I'd better get on with living today. I think I'll grab another cup of coffee and a few Christmas cookies before I tackle the laundry.
We got together with my side of the family on the weekend before Christmas at a hotel. It was lots of fun. Then everyone came over on Sun. for the Packers-Bears game. Since my older brother is a Bears fan, it was fun. He was very gracious about the Bears tromping us and didn't even rub it in too much. On Christmas Eve, after church, we gathered at Roger's parents' house for Christmas with his side of the family. Again, it was so great to be together, joking around, laughing and eating good food. We are blessed beyond measure. Christmas morning we went to church and then had the day with just our family. I put in a ham and potatoes and we had a yummy meal. Then we played games, watched videos, or just lazed around all afternoon. I really needed the down time after a few days of excitement.
On Wednesday I went back to reality and had treatment with just the Avastin. It doesn't give me many side effects, so I've had a pretty good week. We got the results of my CT scan that I had done right before Christmas. There is good news and bad news. First of all the good news- one of my tumors, the one on the left side of my abdomen, has shrunk quite a bit. We are glad for that because I was having some discomfort and some signs of partial bowel obstruction from it pushing down on my bowels. The bad news is that the tumor in my liver has grown about 10mm, which is a fair amount. So, even with the chemo and the Avastin it is stubborn enough to keep going. It is now almost the size of half my liver, so we need to do something before my liver starts to shut down. One treatment option is to put a catheter into my liver and shoot the chemo right into the tumor. The liver has two blood supplies, so we can cut off one and essentially kill off almost half of my liver. The liver is the only organ that can regenerate, so that is lucky for me in this case. My Dr. needed some time to research the options and consult with a radiologist. We can call him later this week to find out more info, so I will keep you posted. At this time we just know that my treatment will change, but we don't know how yet.
I'm struggling with uncertainty again. I'm a planner, and now I just don't know again how things will go. I try not to dwell on the questions right now, but that's hard. I've gotten used to my chemo routine and it's predictability. There is a certain comfort in knowing what to expect. I know why cancer patients live in the moment, because the future is so uncertain. However, I know that my spiritual life is certain and predictable. I can rest assured and be at peace knowing my eternal future. No matter what's in store for me in the coming weeks, my Lord will never leave my side. He is with me everywhere- the chemo room, the hospital, at home. What a comfort that is! So, I guess I'd better get on with living today. I think I'll grab another cup of coffee and a few Christmas cookies before I tackle the laundry.
Snow, Christmas, and chemo
I know I haven't updated my blog in a while, but really, I've been busy. I had chemo the week before Thanksgiving and I got really sick. I was basically down for a week. I did absolutely nothing, had a lot of pain and just getting out of bed was an effort. It was just too much for me so, my Dr. and I decided that I'll do the smaller doses each week, rather than get a big one again. So, I got chemo on Tues. (Dec. 4) and will continue for the next 2 weeks. I also get Avastin every other week, but I don't get side effects from that. That's a good thing. It looks like my week off will be during Christmas, so that turned out to be perfect timing.
Last weekend we went up to MN to see Heidi sing in her Christmas concert. We went up there on Friday, so we missed the snow. Then we saw her on Sat. morning and she showed us around the campus, we ate lunch together. We went back to the hotel to nap and change clothes for the evening. We went back to the campus where they had a special Christmas banquet. It was so yummy. I was so glad my taste buds were doing good by then. After eating, we headed over to the chapel for the concert. It was a very eclectic program that included the orchestra, handbell choir, dancers and of course the choirs. There must've been 350 people singing. It was awesome. Heidi looked like an angel singing! I'm her mom, so I can say things like that. The whole evening was just perfect and certainly memorable. What a way to begin the Christmas season. I was really tired after that, but it was worth it.
We continue to be blessed beyond measure by very generous people. The teachers at school got together and made us a whole bunch of cookies. My principal brought them over last night. Wow! Every one I've tried is just delicious. They are even going to get me all of the recipes so I can make more. I was just trying to figure out how to get some cookies done this year because my energy is so limited. Then, again, our needs (or wants in this case) were provided for us. They are such a special group of people that are close to my heart.
I hope that as you bustle around during this busy time of year that you can still stay focused on the really important things like faith and family. All else seems to pale in comparison to what is really dear to us. If you are reading this, you are probably a friend and loved one of ours. We are so appreciative your continued support and prayers. Have a blessed Christmas season.
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Last weekend we went up to MN to see Heidi sing in her Christmas concert. We went up there on Friday, so we missed the snow. Then we saw her on Sat. morning and she showed us around the campus, we ate lunch together. We went back to the hotel to nap and change clothes for the evening. We went back to the campus where they had a special Christmas banquet. It was so yummy. I was so glad my taste buds were doing good by then. After eating, we headed over to the chapel for the concert. It was a very eclectic program that included the orchestra, handbell choir, dancers and of course the choirs. There must've been 350 people singing. It was awesome. Heidi looked like an angel singing! I'm her mom, so I can say things like that. The whole evening was just perfect and certainly memorable. What a way to begin the Christmas season. I was really tired after that, but it was worth it.
We continue to be blessed beyond measure by very generous people. The teachers at school got together and made us a whole bunch of cookies. My principal brought them over last night. Wow! Every one I've tried is just delicious. They are even going to get me all of the recipes so I can make more. I was just trying to figure out how to get some cookies done this year because my energy is so limited. Then, again, our needs (or wants in this case) were provided for us. They are such a special group of people that are close to my heart.
I hope that as you bustle around during this busy time of year that you can still stay focused on the really important things like faith and family. All else seems to pale in comparison to what is really dear to us. If you are reading this, you are probably a friend and loved one of ours. We are so appreciative your continued support and prayers. Have a blessed Christmas season.
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Back down to business
I had a great week before last (Nov. 5-12). My mom and dad were here and we had fun just getting caught up on news and doing "show and tell" with our projects. Steph was in the high school play and did a marvelous job as one of the villains. They did the show"Anything Goes" and she was Bonnie. I went to every performance and had a blast. Two of my college roomies came with their husbands to enjoy the show too. We had a party at the house the last night and just enjoyed being surrounded by family and friends. This past week we got down to the business of knocking the socks off cancer.
On Tuesday I had a LOT of stuff put in me. I'm doing my usual Taxol, but a big dose for the whole month. I also began my new drug Avastin. It's experimental for ovarian cancer yet, but my insurance is covering it. It works in a different way. It cuts off the blood supply to the tumors, so we are very hopeful about it. I also needed a Neulast shot for my white counts, a Procrit shot for my red counts, and a flu shot just to keep me healthy : ). Needless to say I had a very rough week. Today, Sunday, I still have bad body aches and am very tired. It is hard to do even the smallest tasks. I'm nost sure if I will opt for a higher dose of Taxol again. Maybe it's better just to get smaller doses and not be totally out of it. We'll have to see.
I'm reading Deanna Favre's book about her battle with breast cancer. So far, I can really relate to it. she and I were diagnosed at about the same time- 3 years ago in October. She really has a very open, honest look at being in the spotlight. She is a strong, Christian woman and such a role model for all of us. If you have a chance to pick it up- I'd recommend it. Even if you don't have cancer, she has inspiration for everyone. Some of the lessons we learn through cancer should be learned without having to go through cancer. After last week, I sure do treasure the times when I don't hurt, or when food tastes good, or even when I am strong enough to get groceries. We all need to be mindful of all our blessings, great and small.
I hope all of you have a blessed Thanksgiving. We have so much to be thankful for. Most of all, for our Christian faith and the freedom to express it. I'm so thankful that I'm a child of the risen King. He is all we'll ever need or want. I'm so thankful to be celebrating another Thanksgiving with family and loved ones. Cherish every moment.
On Tuesday I had a LOT of stuff put in me. I'm doing my usual Taxol, but a big dose for the whole month. I also began my new drug Avastin. It's experimental for ovarian cancer yet, but my insurance is covering it. It works in a different way. It cuts off the blood supply to the tumors, so we are very hopeful about it. I also needed a Neulast shot for my white counts, a Procrit shot for my red counts, and a flu shot just to keep me healthy : ). Needless to say I had a very rough week. Today, Sunday, I still have bad body aches and am very tired. It is hard to do even the smallest tasks. I'm nost sure if I will opt for a higher dose of Taxol again. Maybe it's better just to get smaller doses and not be totally out of it. We'll have to see.
I'm reading Deanna Favre's book about her battle with breast cancer. So far, I can really relate to it. she and I were diagnosed at about the same time- 3 years ago in October. She really has a very open, honest look at being in the spotlight. She is a strong, Christian woman and such a role model for all of us. If you have a chance to pick it up- I'd recommend it. Even if you don't have cancer, she has inspiration for everyone. Some of the lessons we learn through cancer should be learned without having to go through cancer. After last week, I sure do treasure the times when I don't hurt, or when food tastes good, or even when I am strong enough to get groceries. We all need to be mindful of all our blessings, great and small.
I hope all of you have a blessed Thanksgiving. We have so much to be thankful for. Most of all, for our Christian faith and the freedom to express it. I'm so thankful that I'm a child of the risen King. He is all we'll ever need or want. I'm so thankful to be celebrating another Thanksgiving with family and loved ones. Cherish every moment.
Three's a charm
Yesterday I did Chemo #3 for this round which means that I'm done for two weeks. I'm on vacation!! Everything with chemo is going smoothly. My body seems to be pretty predictable, which is comforting to me. Today I feel good in the morning, then as the day goes on, will feel worse. Tomorrow will probably be my worst day, thenFriday gets a little better. It makes it easier for me to plan (many of you know that I'm a "planner") my week when I know what to expect. It also makes it easier to get past the yuckies when you know that things will get better. I may be lactose intolerant, so I am eliminating dairy products this week to see if it eases my symptoms. I won't gross you out with my symptoms, but just know that it will be a relief to get to the "bottom" of it.
My mom and dad are flying up here on Friday. My brother, Jon, is picking them up from the airport. It is pretty much the first time my dad has flown and I haven't seen him in almost 1 1/2 years, so I am really excited to have them come. They are staying at the Sleep Inn, so that will be easier for me. I hope things go smoothly while they're here. Steph's play is next week while they're here and Paul, Em & girls are coming also. It should be great fun to have everyone here. I'm so glad I have off chemo next week so I can enjoy things. I'll still get tired, but at least I can take everything in. I got a Procrit shot today to give me a little more energy too.
I'm reading the new Max Lucado book 3:16. It's all about the John 3:16 verse. As always Max always brings things down to such a human, practical level. I love his style. I'm also working on gathering ideas for Christmas. I'm going to be writing the Christmas Eve service. What a great project to work on!
Many of you are prayer warriors, so please remember my family and safe traveling mercies in your prayers. As always I need patience to persevere my treatments and faith to know that God's will is at work. Thanks for all you do for me, Rog, and the girls. We can feel the love and prayers of so many.
My mom and dad are flying up here on Friday. My brother, Jon, is picking them up from the airport. It is pretty much the first time my dad has flown and I haven't seen him in almost 1 1/2 years, so I am really excited to have them come. They are staying at the Sleep Inn, so that will be easier for me. I hope things go smoothly while they're here. Steph's play is next week while they're here and Paul, Em & girls are coming also. It should be great fun to have everyone here. I'm so glad I have off chemo next week so I can enjoy things. I'll still get tired, but at least I can take everything in. I got a Procrit shot today to give me a little more energy too.
I'm reading the new Max Lucado book 3:16. It's all about the John 3:16 verse. As always Max always brings things down to such a human, practical level. I love his style. I'm also working on gathering ideas for Christmas. I'm going to be writing the Christmas Eve service. What a great project to work on!
Many of you are prayer warriors, so please remember my family and safe traveling mercies in your prayers. As always I need patience to persevere my treatments and faith to know that God's will is at work. Thanks for all you do for me, Rog, and the girls. We can feel the love and prayers of so many.
CT scan results
This week was a turning point for us. I got the CT scan results with good news and bad news. The good news is that the tumors are stable. That means that they're not growing. That's awesome because we know that the chemo is working. It is an answer to prayer, that's for sure. I'll bet you're wondering, "Well what could the bad news be about that?" Since the chemo is working and making the tumor stable, I will need to be on chemo indefinitely. If I go off of it, then the tumors will grow again along with whatever other cancer cells are around in my body. These two larger tumors are sort of our barometer for my system. If they are stable, then the other cells probably are also. Ovarian cancer is sort of like a blanket that coats my abdominal area. I just have two big lumps in that blanket.
Many people have asked me why I don't go to Milwaukee, or elsewhere. I already have a Dr. in Milwaukee, an GYN/Oncologist, and I saw him this week also. He checks things over and confers with Dr. Bettag. But I can get my chemos and bloodwork close to home. I have a Dr. who is a solid Christian and prays for his patients. I feel that between Dr. Bettag and the Lord, I have the best physicians on earth and in heaven. After all, we can do everything on earth to become healed, but it is ultimately up to the Lord. As long as I keep waking up each and every day, He has a purpose for me. I appreciate all the prayers that so many of you have offered up. The Lord continues to provide for all of our needs each and every day. We are so blessed to have friends and family that stand by us through these difficult times.
On a lighter note, Heidi is home for a long weekend. It is great to see her again. Already, I can see her changing and maturing. She is doing well in her classes and just loves the whole college scene. Steph continues to be really busy with the play, "Anything Goes". She came home with costumes today, so I'll have some work to do altering them to fit. She is one of the leads- the fun-loving, blond, Bonnie that sings loud and tap dances. It's a perfect part for Steph. My writing continues to keep me busy. I always have a job going and it's fun. The day goes much faster when I have something to work on in the afternoons. I love "going to work" in my slippers and sweatpants!
Thanks for reading this blog and keeping tabs on me. Sometimes it's hard to talk about it all the time. but, if I write it once for more people it helps. Please continue to pray for Rog, the girls and myself as we persevere through treatments.
Many people have asked me why I don't go to Milwaukee, or elsewhere. I already have a Dr. in Milwaukee, an GYN/Oncologist, and I saw him this week also. He checks things over and confers with Dr. Bettag. But I can get my chemos and bloodwork close to home. I have a Dr. who is a solid Christian and prays for his patients. I feel that between Dr. Bettag and the Lord, I have the best physicians on earth and in heaven. After all, we can do everything on earth to become healed, but it is ultimately up to the Lord. As long as I keep waking up each and every day, He has a purpose for me. I appreciate all the prayers that so many of you have offered up. The Lord continues to provide for all of our needs each and every day. We are so blessed to have friends and family that stand by us through these difficult times.
On a lighter note, Heidi is home for a long weekend. It is great to see her again. Already, I can see her changing and maturing. She is doing well in her classes and just loves the whole college scene. Steph continues to be really busy with the play, "Anything Goes". She came home with costumes today, so I'll have some work to do altering them to fit. She is one of the leads- the fun-loving, blond, Bonnie that sings loud and tap dances. It's a perfect part for Steph. My writing continues to keep me busy. I always have a job going and it's fun. The day goes much faster when I have something to work on in the afternoons. I love "going to work" in my slippers and sweatpants!
Thanks for reading this blog and keeping tabs on me. Sometimes it's hard to talk about it all the time. but, if I write it once for more people it helps. Please continue to pray for Rog, the girls and myself as we persevere through treatments.
No Steroids- Yippee
I had round three of three yesterday. My blessing of the week is that I didn't have to take steroids before my chemo because Im not having any adverse reactions. What a difference it has made. I don't have as much of a yucky taste in my mouth and I can actuallyeat better. Even diet Pepsi, my drink of choice, tastes good. I stil get some steroids long with chemo in my IV, but I don't have to take the pills. My blood counts contine to be stable which is a huge blessing. That means no shots, my bone marrow is healthy and keeping up, and one less tired factor. So, overall, I am doing great. I am tired a lot, but not sleepy, just worn out. We can sure live with that if all else is going good. Next week Friday I have a CT scan to see how this drug, Taxol, is working. If the tumors are shrinking, then we keep going. If they are still growing, then we switch to another drug, probably Topotecan. I am on "vacation" for a week - yippee.
Life continues to be busy as usual. Steph broke her wrist this week at play practice. She was tap dancing, slipped and fell, and caught herself with her hand, breaking her wrist. It is fairly minor, so she just has a brace for now. She goes back in in 2 weeks for a check-up just to make sure it's healing all right.
Heidi is loving college. She is taking some tough courses and isn't used to studying so much. But, she has met some great kids and is having a great time. She has changed her major from just biology to biochemistry. Biochem will require bio, chem, math and physics, so she feels it will prepare her better for med school. She is taking chemistry now and she really likes it. I know that wouldn't be for me, but more power to her. She is coming home for the play in November, so it will be great to see her again. We really miss her, but are so happy that she has adjusted to college life.
That's all the news for now. I continue to write every day. I just finished editing a Christian book and am now working on a series of lesson plans. I always seem to have a project of some sort going. It's nice to have something else to focus on.
Thanks for reading this and keeping up with how the Wensinks are fairing. We appreciate all of the kindnesses, prayers, cards, calls, meals, and so many things that people do for us. It helps so much to know that people care about us and are supporting us during this diffcult part of life. Thanks you so much for all you do.
Life continues to be busy as usual. Steph broke her wrist this week at play practice. She was tap dancing, slipped and fell, and caught herself with her hand, breaking her wrist. It is fairly minor, so she just has a brace for now. She goes back in in 2 weeks for a check-up just to make sure it's healing all right.
Heidi is loving college. She is taking some tough courses and isn't used to studying so much. But, she has met some great kids and is having a great time. She has changed her major from just biology to biochemistry. Biochem will require bio, chem, math and physics, so she feels it will prepare her better for med school. She is taking chemistry now and she really likes it. I know that wouldn't be for me, but more power to her. She is coming home for the play in November, so it will be great to see her again. We really miss her, but are so happy that she has adjusted to college life.
That's all the news for now. I continue to write every day. I just finished editing a Christian book and am now working on a series of lesson plans. I always seem to have a project of some sort going. It's nice to have something else to focus on.
Thanks for reading this and keeping up with how the Wensinks are fairing. We appreciate all of the kindnesses, prayers, cards, calls, meals, and so many things that people do for us. It helps so much to know that people care about us and are supporting us during this diffcult part of life. Thanks you so much for all you do.
Endurance for the Race
I'm heading into chemo 2 of round 2. Today I have my second chemo treatment out of a round of 3. In two weeks I get another CT scan to see if this chemo drug- Taxol is working. If it is we keep on going. If it isn't then we switch to something new, probably Topotecan. I am losing a lot of my hair, so yesterday I got a cute, short haircut. It looks pretty nice and looks like just a normal short "do". It will be so much easier without having longer hair all over the place. I was hoping that just the gray ones would fall out, but I guess that would leave me pretty bald anyway. : )
It is always hard to go back in for another treatment. You'd think I would get used to it by now, but I'm not. Each week I go through the same side effects on the same days, so I know what to expect. That does make it easier to deal with, but I just get tired of it. I feel like we are doing a marathon and not just a sprint. It seems like cancer will be part of my life for a long time, probably forever. Yet, through it all, the Lord has blessed me with encouragement is many ways.
I have been copyediting a Christian book on the steps of spiritual growth. It has been a great project to work on. Not only am I using my time productively, but I am also helping an author reach others in their walk with the Lord. I know that the Lord is placing just the right people in my path at just the right time. My writing continues to prosper and grow, giving me a sense of purpose and focus.
Just this morning I checked my e-mail I received my usual note from Sheila Walsh. She has a way of sending just the right message to me at just the right time. I guess we know that God's timing is always perfect. Her words were a great reminder for me. I hope you can gain some encouragement from it as well. Here is the scripture that she quoted from the letter that Paul wrote to the church in Corinth:
2 Corinthians 4:8-10 , 16-18 NCV
It is always hard to go back in for another treatment. You'd think I would get used to it by now, but I'm not. Each week I go through the same side effects on the same days, so I know what to expect. That does make it easier to deal with, but I just get tired of it. I feel like we are doing a marathon and not just a sprint. It seems like cancer will be part of my life for a long time, probably forever. Yet, through it all, the Lord has blessed me with encouragement is many ways.
I have been copyediting a Christian book on the steps of spiritual growth. It has been a great project to work on. Not only am I using my time productively, but I am also helping an author reach others in their walk with the Lord. I know that the Lord is placing just the right people in my path at just the right time. My writing continues to prosper and grow, giving me a sense of purpose and focus.
Just this morning I checked my e-mail I received my usual note from Sheila Walsh. She has a way of sending just the right message to me at just the right time. I guess we know that God's timing is always perfect. Her words were a great reminder for me. I hope you can gain some encouragement from it as well. Here is the scripture that she quoted from the letter that Paul wrote to the church in Corinth:
2 Corinthians 4:8-10 , 16-18 NCV
Vacation is Sweet
This is my week off from chemo and I am loving it. I feel like I'm on vacation. I have a little more energy and feel pretty good. I am even drinking coffee this week because my taste buds seem to be back to normal. I haven't had coffee in about a month. Can you believe it? My hair is thinning this week, but I haven't had to get a GI Jean cut yet. I'm just going to wait it out this time. There is a chance I could still keep my hair even if it just gets thinner. Rog says "So who wants fat hair anyway!". I guess there's humor in nearly everything.
There have been times lately when I have been discouraged and just plain sick of being sick. I have been dealing with chemo for so long. It was about a year ago that I had my second surgery and began chemo. Then came the third recurrence in June already, so soon after finishing chemo in March. Chemo has been pretty constant for the past year. I can tell my body is weak, but still fighting. My blood counts continue to be good, which means that my bone marrow is still keeping up with making all of the white, red and platelet cells. That is a huge blessing. I've been able to be out and about without too much worry. I'm also still able to eat fresh fruits and veggies, a real plus at this time of year.
I am reading a terrific book entitled Heaven is Real. It is written by Don Piper and Cecil Murphy. They also wrote 90 Minutes in Heaven. It has been so refreshing to be reminded that God works through us and through our trials. I have been struggling to see God's purpose in all of this cancer stuff. But, somehow I know that He will use it for His glory. I may never know the reason for it, but can rest assured that His hand is in it. No matter what the outcome of all this treatment is, I know that He is by my side through it all. As Pastor Luke said last week, "Not a hair can fall from our heads without the Lord knowing about it." Now, as my hair is thinning, I can really relate to that statement. As each hair falls, and that's a lot lately, I can be reminded that He is with me. How wonderful that is!
There have been times lately when I have been discouraged and just plain sick of being sick. I have been dealing with chemo for so long. It was about a year ago that I had my second surgery and began chemo. Then came the third recurrence in June already, so soon after finishing chemo in March. Chemo has been pretty constant for the past year. I can tell my body is weak, but still fighting. My blood counts continue to be good, which means that my bone marrow is still keeping up with making all of the white, red and platelet cells. That is a huge blessing. I've been able to be out and about without too much worry. I'm also still able to eat fresh fruits and veggies, a real plus at this time of year.
I am reading a terrific book entitled Heaven is Real. It is written by Don Piper and Cecil Murphy. They also wrote 90 Minutes in Heaven. It has been so refreshing to be reminded that God works through us and through our trials. I have been struggling to see God's purpose in all of this cancer stuff. But, somehow I know that He will use it for His glory. I may never know the reason for it, but can rest assured that His hand is in it. No matter what the outcome of all this treatment is, I know that He is by my side through it all. As Pastor Luke said last week, "Not a hair can fall from our heads without the Lord knowing about it." Now, as my hair is thinning, I can really relate to that statement. As each hair falls, and that's a lot lately, I can be reminded that He is with me. How wonderful that is!
Labor Day Job Title- Cancer Patient
Yesterday was Labor Day. Today the kids are starting classes, Rog is back at school teaching, and ordinarily I would be starting a new school year too. This is my first school year that I haven't been able to begin. Everyone has a job to do, and right now my job is to get well. I have to stay focused on beating this and really consider it my job title. There is nothing as important right now. Last week I had an option to skip my treatment so that I would be well enough to take Heidi up to MN to start college. However, skipping a treatment is not the best option
as a full time cancer patient. So, I was true to my job description and did what was best for beating the cancer and did treatment. We had a great time in MN getting Heidi settled in. We broke up the trip and stayed in Mankato for 1 night and then spent a night with Rog's brother in Eau Claire on the way home. I got very tired, but did all right.
Today I go back to work again and get chemo #3 for this first cycle. I get chemo now 3 weeks in a row, on Tuesdays, and then I get one week off. Next week is my week off from "work". Other complications have begun to snowball. My blood sugar counts for my diabetes have been high because the steroids I have to be on don't do well with the diabetes medication. So, I have to keep a closer eye on my sugars. Last night I got to reduce my steroids because I haven't had a reaction to chemo, and I can cut back. That is great because the steroids give me a rotten taste in my mouth and it is hard to eat and drink. I will see this week if I lose my hair. There is a good chance I won't because my chemos are divided into 3 doses instead of 1 big blast. Time will tell. I like having hair, but losing it isn't the worst thing that can happen either. My blood counts continue to be stable, which is really good. I get labs done today, so we'll see if that is still the case. Of all the side effects, the blood counts is probably the most worrisome, so I am very fortunate so far.
All right, so that is it for the update on my job. I hope yours is going well. Work really is a gift. We often don't realize it when we're struggling with schedules and overload. We all have a purpose under heaven. I am struggling with what my purpose is in all of this, but for now I will do my job as best I can. So, today, no matter what your job is just be thankful for work and the ability to perform your daily work, no matter what that is.
as a full time cancer patient. So, I was true to my job description and did what was best for beating the cancer and did treatment. We had a great time in MN getting Heidi settled in. We broke up the trip and stayed in Mankato for 1 night and then spent a night with Rog's brother in Eau Claire on the way home. I got very tired, but did all right.
Today I go back to work again and get chemo #3 for this first cycle. I get chemo now 3 weeks in a row, on Tuesdays, and then I get one week off. Next week is my week off from "work". Other complications have begun to snowball. My blood sugar counts for my diabetes have been high because the steroids I have to be on don't do well with the diabetes medication. So, I have to keep a closer eye on my sugars. Last night I got to reduce my steroids because I haven't had a reaction to chemo, and I can cut back. That is great because the steroids give me a rotten taste in my mouth and it is hard to eat and drink. I will see this week if I lose my hair. There is a good chance I won't because my chemos are divided into 3 doses instead of 1 big blast. Time will tell. I like having hair, but losing it isn't the worst thing that can happen either. My blood counts continue to be stable, which is really good. I get labs done today, so we'll see if that is still the case. Of all the side effects, the blood counts is probably the most worrisome, so I am very fortunate so far.
All right, so that is it for the update on my job. I hope yours is going well. Work really is a gift. We often don't realize it when we're struggling with schedules and overload. We all have a purpose under heaven. I am struggling with what my purpose is in all of this, but for now I will do my job as best I can. So, today, no matter what your job is just be thankful for work and the ability to perform your daily work, no matter what that is.