Wednesday, November Twenty-First, Two Thousand and Twelve

On Monday, Lauren arrived for her appointment at 9:30 a.m. to meet with her doctor prior to receiving the first treatment of chemotherapy (R-CHOP).  Her oncologist, Dr. Hawley, showed her before and after pictures of her cat-scans of when she was admitted in to the hospital back in October compared to her most recent cat-scan this past Friday.  He was amazed with the difference.  The new photos show so much improvement.  Her lungs are clear of all fluid and the size of the tumor has shrunk about 70% from using the Rituxan alone.  We are very excited, hopeful and positive.  During the visit, Dr. Hawley decided last minute that he wanted to admit her to Christ Hospital for her first treatment.  A bed opened up around 2 p.m. but she didn't end up receiving chemotherapy until 10 p.m. due to the hospital pharmacy.  Prior to the chemo, she was given drugs to reduce nausea so she felt pretty good .  She slept through most of the treatment.  

In the morning, they scheduled her for an Echocardiogram to check for fluid around her heart.  The results are still pending.  She also received one blood transfusion to pump up her red blood cell count.  She was released to go home on Tuesday at 3 p.m.  She has a follow up appointment with the doctor next week.  Thank you for all of your endless support, love, and prayers.  Everyone have a Happy Thanksgiving!!



"God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference."