The Highs and Lows of Cancer Life

Hello Dear friends and Family,

I can’t believe it’s almost here...the day that so many of us have looked forward to...but as a Mom especially me!  My very special and amazing son, who we all know I would give my life for, is getting married next week.   He’s marrying the most wonderful woman (we love you dearly Jen) and I just know that they will be embarking on an incredible journey and life together.  I’m a very proud Mama and Don is such a proud Step-Dad, we can’t wait to get there!  My heart is so full!  This is the FIRST wedding on my side of the family (Michael is the oldest of his cousins...which doesn’t always matter, but did in this case.). 6-1/2 years ago I prayed and prayed that God would keep me here  long enough to see this day...and he did❣️  I am very grateful.  Now I keep telling my Oncologist I want MORE, MORE, MORE!  That’s his goal too and I’m great with that.  😊

Speaking of my wonderful Oncologist I’ve made some treatment changes in the past week.  Last month when I saw him I’d developed an annoying cough and was a smidge short of breath. Ie only been on my new treatment for 4-5 months and wanted to try alittle bit longer.   I’d already endured some pretty crappy side effects and I hated to throw in the towel too quickly, not to mention I don’t want to run out of treatments. But after two more weeks I knew I couldn’t go on!  I couldn’t take a deep breath, the chemo was attacking my joints terribly (my left knee was 3x it’s normal size) I had mouth sores, nausea and welts on my face.  (I was on the oral chemo Afinitor and the Anti-hormonal Aromasin.)  Just so you know....I know MANY Stage IV patients who’ve done well on the AA combo!  Everyone reacts differently, I’m just sharing my story.  

My Oncologist ordered a CT scan, which I had yesterday, to check my lungs.  He also immediately took me off the combo and wants my body to have 2-3 weeks before starting something new. So I will see him again after the wedding.  Thanks to a dear friend I have som good thoughts...and knowing my Oncologist he does too.  I got the CT results this morning, good and bad news.
Good news: the Cancer has NOT spread to my lungs...thank you dear Lord❣️
Bad news:  I have Pneumonitis or Infectious Inflammatory Process basically a severe lung infection caused by the chemo.  Thankfully we caught it and it should resolve on its own.  Scary stuff!

Soooo....that’s where things are right now.  Truthfully, all I can think of is Mike and Jenny and celebrating them 💕💕💕!  I also want to mention how thrilled we are that Mike’s 85 year old Grandpa and his 86 year old Grandma are able to join us in New York.  This is largely being made possible by my sister Kim who is accompanying them the entire time.  Bless you Kimmy!

I love you all and thank you for your continued support and prayers!  I feel the love!  I ask that you say a special prayer for these people if you could...
Mike and Jenny
Nancy and Bob Maroney
Don Austreng
Patty Austreng

God Bless each of you...with love,

Kathy xoxoxo