September 29, 2005, 7:54 am

Okay, here is the update. I got the results of the blood count and saw the doc who is standing in for mine (he's on a trip somewhere and returns on Sunday) for interpretation.

Red Cell count is cool, i.e., within normal range. Hemoglobin is also good, i.e., within normal range. Problem is WBC (which I think stands for white blood count). He says thats the stuff that causes activity in the bone marrow, as in, increase the guys who fight infections. The normal range is 4.00 - 11.00. Mine is 1.76 which he says is ok for someone going through chemo. However, and this is the catch, it MUST get to at least 3 before they will give me another doze of chemo.

Last time it was above 4.00 but he says day 10 is when it hits bottom (that was monday for me) then starts picking so by next doze its up. I need mine to go up. He says food won't help. Just hope. Alternative is for medication which one doze costs 10K!!!!!! We don't want to go there, do we?

So, prayer for the week, I need those things to multiply like crazy so by next Wednesday morning when I do my next blood count, they are at least at 3. If they get there, I get my next shot at 1:00, same day.

If anyone has inside news of how to build them up, do share.

Dee

P/S I think my hair has started doing a number on me!!!!!!!!!!!

September 28, 2005, 12:04 pm

Hi All,

Just want to let you know I go for blood work again tomorrow. I'm feeling kinda worn out this week. I was wondering why then remembered the Doctor had said the 2nd week after treatment is harder. I thought in terms of feeling sicker but I suppose he meant in terms of energy.

Nausea is a forgotten story....and it really shows from the stuff I'm eating. BAD!!!! I've gone back (as of this morning) to adding lots of juice and fruits to my diet so that I get the right stuff into my body. My next project is to try and take a few minutes walk every evening. Only problem with putting this down is you might start asking if I've started. But its good coz I do need to do it. The healthier I am spiritually, emotionally, physically, etc the better for me in terms of coping with the treatment.

I started going for counselling last week and had another session this morning. Its a one on one and has really been helpful to start me processing the issues I need to. I'm not yet quite ready to join a support group.

My main lesson of the week has been that God is still in control (yes, Vera, it has sunk in) and I'm still on track in terms of His plan for my life. This is not a detour or a stop, more like a bump or valley - you know, like the one's David talked about. After all, whose life is a long, straight, flat, eventless road. Some go through higher peaks and some through lower valleys but the important thing to remember is who is with us, or even carrying us when we need it. His rod and staff they comfort me - and His word, and His saints (you guys) and His angels, and His songs (through the many people He has inspired). There is so much to keep me going. He is wonderful.

May you continue to be encouraged, even as you encourage me.

Walking in His power!
Dee

September 22, 2005, 9:04 pm

Update to my earlier message...saw the doc, he says, in his words, "the results are completely normal" as in everything is as it should be for someone NOT going through chemo!!!! I think thats pretty cool! Another piece of good news, the lump is definitely shrinking, as in responding to the medication!

I thank God for this encouragement and of course for all you guys who've standing with me today.

Dee

September 22, 2005, 9:41 am

Hi guys,

You have all been super supportive. Thanks so much. Barikiweni sana sana!

The weekend and beginning of this week were not so good...nausea, complete lack of energy, absolutely no appetite, but I've been feeling stronger by the day and able to eat better but imagine I've lost a whole kilo since last Thursday. Fortunately I have a few extra's tucked here and there so its no major loss.

I get my blood work done today. I pray it turns out good. I'll update you once I get the results.

After this, next Thursday, I get another test (Thursday's will be my day for either blood work or chemo shots) then the following Thursday I get my second "cocktail".

Have a lovely day as you walk in His power.

Dee

September 16, 2005, 8:54 am

Amen and AMEN!!!! I like your ending...walk in His power....but thats exactly what I want to do, actually its all I can do, because only through Him will I be able to get through this and He is already proving Himself more than enough, to be everything I could hope for and ask for. May He be glorified through these circumstances and may His name never be stifled in our hearts and mouths. May we continue to be bold and broadcast His wondrous love, not just for me but for you guys and everyone on this earth.

Please thank the person who gave you the 100 dollars. Each chemo treatment procedure costs 8,000/-. I learnt this today. This does not count the cost of medication so anything given is greatly appreciated.

For those who are fasting/fasted, I felt the strength of your prayers and believe thats why I'm at work today (working late!) and still feeling fine. I'm told blood count starts reducing in the second week after the chemo. I've downloaded stuff to read at home on foods that will help build up my blood. Pray about that -- that I will remain healthy!

Have a great weekend.....walk in His power!!!!!!

Love,
Dee

September 16, 2005, 8:39 am

Dee

This is awesome news. God is faithful and will give you all your need..in terms of strength, peace, power (supernatural)..He will give you all you need! I was at bible study last night and the prayers that were said for you were incredible..I mean just incredible. I also received 100 dollars from one person for your treatment which I had not asked for, in addition the Lord called 4 girls to fasting with us.....I'm even more amazed by our God. He is just going to blow our minds. He will, and I look forward to see Him glorified even through this! Halleluiah!

Have a blessed day and walk in His power!
love
Sue

You did not choose Me,but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit - fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in My name.

John 15: 16

September 16, 2005, 7:04 am

Dear All,

I've just come back from getting my first chemo shot. Either it wasn't all its made out to be or your prayers made a huge difference. HUGE coz I feel absolutely fine. I pray this will be the trend. Next visit is Thursday next week for blood count. Please pray it doesn't go low. My veins, which are crucial for the treatment, also need prayer. It took quite a while to locate a good one to use.

God bless you all for your willingness to stand in the gap for me.

Love,
Doris