Radiation & Chemo Journey Begins

Post by Tim:  Dad wanted to give folks who follow this blog an update and let you know that he has now gone through half of his radiation treatments (5 out of 10) and has started taking oral chemotherapy (Revlimid) along with steroids as of today.  The radiation and pain meds have the pain at a manageable level at the moment - and he has been pleased with the radiation experience.  He's experiencing the common (from what we hear) side effects - fatigue, loss of appetite - but nothing intolerable.

Also at the moment, Kaylee is sick which presents a different type of dilemma.  Aside from not wanting her to feel bad, he cannot be around her and exposed to any potentially contagious illnesses.   With dad's particular disease and this route for treatment (especially since he has started the Revlimid), his immune system is weakening and not what it should be.  This will be something we as a family learn to understand and adapt to. 

This marks the beginning of what is going to be a long and successful journey to remission and ultimately to a stem cell transplant.  So far, so good.  We will provide updates throughout this journey.  During the Revlimid and steroid cycles, he will have frequent doctor visits to monitor how his body is handling the drugs, and for periodic blood and bone marrow tests (mainly towards the end of the scheduled cycles) to track progress.  As of now, Revlimid cycles will continue for 3 months.   

I want to thank everyone for your continued support and prayers for dad and our family.  Know that dad appreciates it that much more.  We are certainly not the only family who is struggling / has struggled with cancer in some form.  We also pray for those of you who are - and want you to know that you are not alone. 

Hopefully the next update is news of continued progress - keep praying!!