I am sorry I have not updated my blog for some time. I have had a few things going on since I last wrote. I spent about 6 days in the hospital due to an infection in my mouth. They were given me antibiotics through the IV and some nice pain killers. During that time they also attempted to collect stem cells from me again and the good news is they collected over 500 millions. So now they have all the stem cells to proceed with the transplant. I am scheduled to be admitted in the hospital on Wednesday, November 21st, the day before Thanksgiving. Guess what I'm having for Thanksgiving....and it's not turkey!
I also had to see a dentist to rule out a bad tooth or such. Luckily through a couple we met here in Denver, Phyliss and Kent, they recommended a dentist and we were able to get that taken care of in a few days. Kent has scleroderma also and went through the stem cell transplant in January. He is doing remarkably well. They are a very thoughtful couple and have offered much support and kindness since we met them. It's amazing how God places the right people in your life at the right time!
Due to the chemo I had 3 weeks ago my hair began to fall out in clumps. What a weird experience to put your fingers through you hair and have a clump of it in your hands or look at the pillow and it's covered with hair. To make it less messy the nurse in the hospital suggested to shave it and so I agreed. I can't say that it hasn't effected my psyche a bit. Matt was very sweet and also shaved his head so I wasn't alone. I do have some hats to cover my bald head, but unfortunately I'm not one of those girls that look cute in hats. But I guess a bit better then bald.
One lady woke up with 3 hairs left on her head so she decided to wear a braid, then next day she had 2 hairs so she figured she'd part it in the middle. When she woke up with 1 hair left she wore a ponytail. A little humor from the cancer floor of the hospital. :)
On Wednesday (if nothing unexpected occurs) I will start the stem cell transplant. I will receive a high dose regiment of chemo for several days to deplete my immune system and then once that is completed the stem cells they collected from me prior will be infused back to me. Similar to a blood transfusion. My understanding is that I will be feeling pretty crappy and weak for 3 to 4 weeks before I begin to feel better. I am scared about the side effects of the chemo and pray that my body will be able to handle it without any lasting side effects. Again I need to remind myself to "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6
I am so very thankful for your friendship and support. I wish you and your loved one's a Happy Thanksgiving! Enjoy and Celebrate!
xo
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| A no hair day! |
Hi Debbie! I was thinking of you this morning,wondering what was going on. Then I logged on and there was your update! You both look great with smooth heads and I am sure there is a hat out there that looks cute and will keep you warm. Wednesday is a good day to get started, it is my Birthday. All my birthday wishes will be for your healing. Hang in there my friend. Love, Carrie
ReplyDeleteHey Carrie.....Happy Birthday - I hope your day is as special as you are!
DeleteMiss you and can't wait to get back home. Thanks for all your well wishes!
Debbie! Without hair your eyes stand out and they are so beautiful! Continue to tap into God's strength when you feel weak. (A final word, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power! Ephesians 6:10) My devotional for today reminds us with the strength of his Word he spoke the planets and stars into existence, he pushed back the Red Sea for the Isrealites and gave David the strength to fight Goliath! Prayers your way as you and your body begin this battle! Love in Christ...Sue Nelson
ReplyDeleteHey Debbie, This is Sue from greeting Ministry. We got your address for your blog a couple of weeks ago. I, of corse washed the first one in the pants I wore to church that day. LOL Whatever... I got a new one and am glad I did ......
ReplyDeleteI am praying that all went well today .
I think you look beautiful with a shaved head. Which made me think of a scripture:
1 Samuel 16:7 -But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart."
I am so inspired by you and Matt (aka the nurse). And your heart for the Lord. Blessings to you and Matt. I will be praying .
In His Love Sue Benfield.
Hello Debs, Robbie here, haven't followed your blog for some time as you know we were in TZ for a couple of weeks. Well, it seems your progress is three steps forward one step backward. But that means slowly slowly you are getting there.
ReplyDeleteIt's also encouraging to meet someone who has done it all before, and is doing well.
We missed you and Vic in TZ. Things have really changed there. Not all for the best.
Anyway, God Bless and keep strong
Robbie