First Post Chemotherapy Report

From that old cherished spiritual: "Ain't gots no new flowers, ain't gots no new food, I gots dem post chemotherapy blues". Its truly amazing the comfort and consolation a song can bring regardless of the genre.

We're now in phase 2 of Gay's treatment. We learned yesterday that the blood test taken a few days ago showed further improvement in the existing cancer markers. Our oncologist, Dr. Doogie Howser has recommended that the next treatment should include radiation. The radiation doctor had a little problem with that since Gay has had radiation therapy during her last bout with cancer. She was afraid that the radiation might do more harm than good but Dr. Doogie wants to be sure that the original source be totally whacked with every defense we have available. Sure, it's not HIS body but he's been doing a great job so far and that's where we're going.

During the previous radiation treatment, they would use Sharpies to make bulls-eyes where to shoot and that was VERY interesting. They now apply an actual tattoo about the size of a freckle to designate "ground zero". She will start the series next week and will go in five days a week for about a month to get nuked. Our Doctor wants absolutely NO prisoners. Luckily its only a five minute drive to the treatment center.

After we finish the radiation, Gay will go on hormonal therapy for the foreseeable future and will be checked constantly for any new problems. We've started to look for some new sprigs on her noggin but thus far it looks like fallow ground. I guess this Taxol takes some time to leave the system.

Again, we request your thoughts and prayers. The fight is far from over but, with you on our side, we will prevail. Our sincerest thanks again.