Monday, December 1, 2008

Good News!

I'm at the doctor's office with Laura today. It's a follow-up visit after her first round of chemo... She met with the research doctor, Dr. Tongol.

Her counts were way up so they're going to decrease the amount of the Nulastin (which is a shot she gets the day after chemo -- and which causes the pain she experienced in her legs.). This should help either decrease or eliminate the pain she felt.

They gave her new prescriptions to help with the mouth sores, her throat, pain/numbness in her fingers, the redness in her skin. At this moment, she's receiving fluids which will help increase her energy and generally make her feel better.

The most exciting news of the day is that they are already seeing significant shrinkage in the size of the tumor. This is due to the combination of the Avastin (the research drug) and the chemo. The tumor wasn't exactly symetrical, but in one direction it has decreased by half!

That's my Laura… Goin'! Fightin'! Winnin'!!

14 comments:

Phyl said...

Laura,
So glad to hear that you're doing better. I can see that Carrie & Mary are keeping you in line.LOL

Renee Collins said...

Laura,
This is such good news and it is nice to know that you are feeling better. Keep up the good fight. Talk to you soon-AIMP.

G said...

You go girl!!!!!!! Who-o-o-o-o This news is fantastic.. That is almost like Santa coming early. As for the appetite, a suggestion that goes along with trying Boost. Sort of freezing them to milkshake consistacy makes for a change of pace/taste. I am so glad Thanksgiving was a memory building (and reflecting) time for you all... You get to feeling better so you can take over being boss! Love you all! Me

Unknown said...

WOW! I'm so tickled with today's post. It sounds like real progress on a lot of fronts. I'm so glad the Nulastin can be decreased, and I'm thinking the fluids will help with feeling better too. Thanksgiving was truly amazing with all of you. I have such fond memories of 520 Rock Springs and I'm so grateful that you all are family. Keep up the good work, all of you!

Tobi.is.Across.the.Pond said...

Hey! I hope Mama got in touch with you!
What wonderful news. I can't wait to see you! Keep that fighting spirit.:)

Love,

Tobi

Harvey Chute said...

Sarah and Hannah's prayer has been "Please heal Laura, quickly."
This is a good day and one of answered prayers. How great to hear that the treatment is having this impressive effect, so soon.

Rosa said...

Hola, so glad to read the positive news. Carrie was kind enough to provide me the link and I have been thinking and praying for you ever since. I will continue to check in and expect to continue to read good news. Nothing like sisters to keep you in line, I should know I have 3 sisters and 3 brother that still do it! Rosa

marina said...

MRS.KiTCHENS. i MiSS YOU AND iM GLAD TO HERE YOU ARE GETTiN BETTER. :) JUST KEEP iT GOiN. i LOVE YOU. SEE YA WHEN YOU CAN COME BACK TO SCHOOL.

Unknown said...

mrs. kitchens :]
i love you so much and i am so glad that its showing signs of shrinkage. i have to say that i am not supprised because you are in all of our prayers. i just thank GOD for you everyday. you are a complete and total inspiration to me. i know that all the girls would love for me to say hi for them so hi :] STAY POSITIVE! and always know you're not alone! i love you... paislea

Zuneamama said...

To all my students: I really miss you all! Paislea, I hope you are working on your officer forms. Marina, keep everybody in line 5th period. And for those of you who are not hanging up your bags or sitting in the right seats...DO IT! I know you can cooperate! GoFightWin!!!
Love,
Mrs. Kitchens

Morgan F said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Morgan F said...

Hey Mrs. Kitchens:)
I miss you so much! You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Love you.
-Morgan Fishback

Linda Mott said...

Laura I love you because we are sisters in Christ. I am from Kindleboards. I am so happy you are feeling better.

Happy Kindling!

bre said...

hey mrs. kitchens!
man im so proud of you for being so strong! your are for real my hero! i love and miss you bunches i wish i could have had you as a teacher this year i miss you alot! God bless! your in my thoughts and prayers! ilove you!
have a good day!
breanne! :)