Wednesday, July 23, 2008

You went WHERE?

Believe it or not, I made it out to Lake Powell, chemotherapy, Anxiety and all!!

My family convinced me that it would be relaxing to come out on the houseboat that we have a 1 week share on. I cannot tell you how scared I was to think that I might get out there and freak out over something, anything, what if it was too hot, or what if it was too bumpy and I would feel nauseated, or what if there wasn't any food out there that I could eat, or what if I just needed to come home?? The fears seem ridiculous now, but they weren't the day before I went. I had a downright good old panic attack.



BUT, with a LOT of prayer,Not just mine, but all of you guys praying for me too, I decided it would be good for me to be with my family, brothers, sister, and their kids, and just lay around in the cool water. And you know what?? No one would let me cook or clean or do any work at all, and I think I had one of my most relaxing trips to Lake Powell ever. The food even tasted good to me. The days were around 85 -90 degrees and the nights were wonderful, and I truly did enjoy it. I am calling it a MIRACLE! (By the way , my sister's the one with the hair :)

Just to be sure I didn't get too much sun, Dale brought me home on the 3rd day, but it turned out to be just right. I have been feeling better ever since.

It has been over 2 weeks since I have had a chemo treatment, and so next Monday will be LUCKY #7 (Remember the Dr. said I would have 8 treatments, so I am getting excited to be getting near the end).
the last treatment I had, we found that if I went into the office everyday for fluid and IV meds, I did MUCH better. They say this stuff accumulates in your system, so each one SHOULD get worse. (OK, So I am normal) So, here it is Wednesday, July 23rd, and I almost feel like a normal person. It sounds silly, but I can't tell you how much HOPE that gives me, that someday I will feel like myself again.

Since I felt so good yesterday, I went to my favorite place to feel peace. The temple. I didn't know how much time I could physically endure, but it ended up so peaceful, I stayed for several hours. When I got home last night, I felt peace, the peace I beg for, and plead for. If you have ever experienced severe anxiety, you know what I am talking about, if you haven't, drop to your knees right now and give thanks!!! It is indescribable.
I could not have come this far without your love and support, I don't know how ANYONE could go through this alone. My testimony is being strengthened daily as I learn new things that Heavenly Father is bringing to my ATTENTION, possibly things I wouldn't have learned any other way. Thank you for your love, talk to you next week, PS I still like visitors :)

Friday, July 11, 2008

Grandbaby #7

We are excited to announce that Grandbaby #7 has arrived!!

Tara went into labor on her own on July 5th, and was so relieved to avoid a C-section, which was a possibility.
WE were surprised that the baby weighed 8 lbs 13 oz, and she was able to get her out without too much trouble.
Kenya Kimberlee Alofipo will be her name. She has been a great baby so far, and the twins are adjusting in their own way. My mom was able to see the delivery before Chemo #6, and was feeling pretty normal.
She had her 6th treatment on Monday, and surprisingly she hasn't been in pain or nauseous yet! She has, however, been into the hospital every day for 3 hours each day to get fluids (for hydration) and some extra meds for nausea. It has made a big difference. She's also been taking Benadryl around the clock, per doctors orders, to help stay calm. It's also working well.
Next week the family is headed to Lake Powell for a week on a houseboat. We are all hoping that Mom can enjoy herself, even if she only stays for a few days. Baby Kenya will be staying at home with Tara of course!
Thanks again for all your comments, prayers, emails, cards, flowers, gifts, and visits! I hope you all know what a big difference they are making for my mom.