Chemo - Week 4 (Monday, 10/25/2010)

Week four of treatment has come and gone.  "Mom" has handled the first month of treatment really well.  She has been able to work almost everyday with the exception of treatment day and a few tired days, which typically occur three days post treatment (Thursday).  We are sure chemo isn't easy, but "mom" never complains and she is glad for treatment day to arrive as it means fighting back.  This week "mom" was able to contact a local support group, which meets once or twice a month.  The next meeting is on Monday and if mom is feeling ok after treatment we are sure she will be there.

This week "mom" was again escorted to treatment by "Grandpa Gary".  The treatment was in the morning and I think they stopped for some breakfast at Dunkin Donuts, which always seems to help with the long drive into Boston.   Our "Cousin Nicole D" met them there and by the pictures, it appears that she brought some pre-Halloween costumes and several bananas.  "Cousin Nicole" must have stopped by "Aunt Gerry's" house this weekend and picked up a supply.  Our buddy "Loves" the Saint Bernard said the bananas were very good and hit the spot.  Thank you "Cousin Nicole" for always making us laugh and for all your support. LOVE YOU!!!!!!!

We hear "Grandpa Gary" learned how to take a cell phone picture.  "Mom" said that he thought the camera was the viewfinder and almost took a picture of his own eye.  Too bad we didn't get to see that photograph.  As you can see by the above shots, he figured it out rather quickly.  Great pictures "Grandpa Gary"!

Prior to treatment "Doctor Tolaney" informed "mom" of several post treatment options that she would qualify for through Dana Farber.  The first was a vaccine clinical trial which would use tumor cells from "mom" and create a vaccine that she could take to fight any re-occurrence. The other clinical trial is a post surgery chemo option.  "Mom" would have a chance of being selected for 1 of 4 groups.  The groups would include variations of treatment options including diet, exercise, Methotrexate, and Avastin. Treatment would last approximately 3 years.  "Mom" is researching the treatment options and will be able to discuss the clinical trials in more detail with her team of doctors as she moves forward. 

This week "mom" has been able to work each and every day.  We think this is great, as she can focus on something other than treatment.  "Mom" just loves taking care of her patients and misses all her great co-workers when she is out for even a day or two.

Thank you all for all the cards.  We think they make the house look great.  "Mom" has posted them all over the family room.

Love the puppers and kitty,

Team Charlene

Ginger (Woof Woof), Liz (WOOF), and Baby (meow meow meow meow...)