In my first post, I want to warn you right off the bat...I get long-winded and like to write.  So, consider yourselves forewarned.  We have considered a blog for quite some time, but I didn't want to commit to one.  We decided it would probably be the best and easiest way to keep everyone informed of what's going on with us.  So here we go.

I'll start with what's happened since last Monday.  I received my very first chemo treatment with Doxorubicin on that day.  Aside from the hiccups that would last for three days, there didn't seem to be much of any side effects right away.  The next day, I was injected with Neulasta, a drug used to help build up white blood cells.  Because I felt pretty good, we headed for home.  Within hours I had developed a severe allergic reaction to the Neulasta, resulting in itching hives from neck to foot.  The hives would come and go for the next five days.  On day eight (this Monday), we were due back at CTRC for a checkup and blood work.  My blood work was terrible--my white blood cells and ANC were dangerously low.  My doctor decided to check me into the hospital to allow my counts to recover.   My immunities were almost completely depleted.

We are in a hospital in San Antonio.  Over the past few days, my blood counts have slowly rebounded.  Finally, today the counts are no longer dangerously low.  However, my hemoglobin level is pretty low.   There is the possibility that I may need a blood transfusion if this does not improve.  I should get out of the hospital tomorrow, however.

We have appointments scheduled here for Monday, so we will not be returning to Big Spring until after those.  We will be discussing on that day any future options we might have, so please pray for God to give us wisdom and discernment about His will for us.

God has so blessed us with a great place to stay while we are here, with Helen's sister and brother-in-law. We have had so many people call and text us.  We have so many praying for us everywhere.  We have so many friends and family who support and encourage us.   God is so good to us.

I will try to update on a regular basis on this blog.  Please feel free to share this address or any comments at any time.  Thanks for all of your prayers, calls and support!