It's been a great break from the hospital, doctors and treatments, but yesterday started a new regiment. The day before Thanksgiving was my last day of radiation treatment, and we had a nice, relaxing celebration for Thanksgiving. Then we had two full weeks to get back into somewhat "normal" routines, although my back pain has kind of leveled off and I am still very limited in what I can do physically. I believe it's related to the structural damage done to the vertebrae from my bone lesion, but we aren't scheduled to see the neurologist for a follow up CAT scan and assessment for another few weeks. I have started physical therapy, which feels great to get some of these muscles working again that have been resting for so long, and it has been helping a bit with strength and mobility, but I've got a ways to go to get back to normal.
The pile of pills and the Velcade shot at the hospital was a little daunting to think about day before yesterday, but God gave His peace as I prayed throughout the night, as I searched His Scriptures for comfort, as I spoke with my wonderful wife about it, and as the prayers of friends of family rose up before the Lord. My treatment schedule is a once-a-week mega dose of steroids, cancer fighters and "moderate" chemo pills, with supplemental daily pills to control possible side-effects and regulate certain blood levels. Well, after all the hype, and all the crazy lists of side-effects, and after the anticipation of the first treatment, the only thing I've noticed so far was having a hard time sleeping, which I'm told was from the steroids. I realize that some of the more common side-effects don't show up for a week or two, but it's been pretty encouraging that the last two days have felt pretty much the same as all last week.
Our next big step is to meet with a few bone marrow transplant specialists for consultations on that process after the cancer has been pushed into remission. We're scheduled to meet with two different treatment centers before the end of the year, and praying for wisdom as we seek out God's clear path for us. He has been so gracious to us in our journey, and we see Him walking ahead of us in every part of our lives, preparing our way before us. He gives us peace and comfort each step of the way, and we've gained a new appreciation for the blessings of each day... a new perspective on our everyday lives, and it has made life so much more brilliant... even on a rainy day like today.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” - Jesus (NIV) Matthew 11:28-30
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