Update

[lindrusso]

A very quick update on DH.

Well, the pathology report was not as we had hoped. The cancer has spread to the lymph nodes. :( I am reeling from this news. I had so hoped he'd be able to move forward and be free of cancer. It kills me that he has to face more treatment even as he is just recovering from surgery.

We met with an oncologist today and it looks like it will probably be at least 10 months of chemo and radiation. We do plan to get a second opinion, but I have a feeling we'll at least get started with treatment in the meantime.

I feel lost. If anyone out there has any information about chemo and/or radiation, etc. that might be of some help, I'd appreciate any information. I had not researched this area yet, as we were dealing with one thing at a time. Also, I anyone has any information on whether or not we should seek out the MayoClinic, that would be helpful as well. You can PM or email me directly.

Looks like we'll be needing those good thoughts and prayers to keep coming for quite a while longer.

Alysha

[aggie94]

I'm so sorry to hear this. :( We were all hoping for better news. I don't have any information or advice for you, but I will continue to send good thoughts your way.

Take care of yourself,
Eva

[Kayaksoup]

I'm so sorry Alysha.... I can't give you any advice or information, but I will keep you both in my thoughts....
Linda

[LaraW]

Alysha, I am so sorry to hear this. I also do not have any information for you but will continue to keep you and your DH in my prayers.

((((Alysha and DH)))

Lara

[Shirley Panek]

(((:())) My thoughts and prayers are still with you and your DH, Alysha. My mom has been going through chemo (for stage IV breast cancer) for over a year. While it hasn't been fun (how can it be?) knowing that she has friends and family praying for her certainly helps.

[wallycat]

(((((((((((((((Alysha & DH)))))))))))))))))))))))))))

my heart sank to read this.
I am sooooooooo praying for a speedy recovery.

[SandyM]

Alysha, I'm so sorry to hear this.

I agree with Shirley - it helps to know that friends and family are praying for you all - please know that we are here, and you can always reach out to us for support.

Take care, and while it will be difficult, please try to remain positive. Hope is a strong thing.

Hugs to you.

[Natasha]

Alysha,

I'm very sorry to read this. I've been wondering how things were going with you guys. :( Here are more prayers and good thoughts coming your way. I have seen the chemo thing secondhand with my dad - he had it on and off for a couple of years - and while it was trying for him and his family, he did well on it and always kept his spirits up. If there's anything I can help with, or any info I can provide, just PM me.

Natasha

[MrsReber]

I am so very sorry to hear this! I was hoping all would be well. I don't have much information on chemo. My SIL just went through chemo for breast cancer and she didn't react all that badly. It wasn't a very long course of treatment, though. I am so sorry that your family is going through all of this. I, too, am praying for a speedy recovery. Hope your little guys are holding up well, too!

[Gracie]

Alysha, I'm very sorry to hear this. I was convinced DH was going to come through this with flying colors.

I think it's a good idea to seek a second opinion but not hold off treatment. The sooner he starts, the sooner this course will be over.

I will be thinking of your family. Please continue to keep us posted. We are all here for you.

Loren

[slknight]

Oh, (((Alysha))), I am so sorry to hear this. I will continue to keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. I don't know much about chemo, but my MIL did beat breast cancer several years ago (before I knew her). She still does a program called "Reach to Recovery" where she reaches out to current breast cancer patients, so I think she is fairly knowledgable about stuff. Plus, she's a wonderful person and inspiration to talk to. I'm PM'ing you with her info.

Susan

[funnybone]

Alysha, I'm so sorry the news isn't what you had hoped for.

I know DH's cousin went for treatment for colon cancer, but since they kept it private at the time, I don't know any of the details. I do know that it didn't cause her hair to fall out and she was able to get through it without her mother even knowing (long story - her mother isn't in best of health herself).

I will continue to keep you and your DH in my thoughts and prayers.

[KathrynY]

(((Alysha & DH))) I'm so very sorry that your news wasn't better. Does your medical center have a support group for cancer patients and their families? That might be a place you could go for some help with your questions.

I hope you can feel the hugs of support winging their way across the country to you. We're here as long as you need us. I'll be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

Kathryn

[DmOrtega]

Prayers from Shoreline, WA.

[BlueMoose]

(((((Alysha and family)))))))

My parents have been to Mayo several times, and have always been very happy with the treatment there.

[pilgrim719]

Alysha, I am so very sorry to hear this news. :( I was sure everything would go as well as it has with my stepfather. He will also be having radiation and/or chemo, but for a shorter period of a time than your DH, and only as a precaution since it does not appear that his cancer had spread to the lymph nodes. I wish I had some information or advice to offer you, but all I can do is say a prayer for you and your family and send continued good thoughts your way.

(((Alysha, DH, DS's, and Family)))

Kari

[KristinK]

Alysha,

I am also so very sorry to hear your news. I only wish I had advice to offer you, but my experience is limited to my grandmother's battle with cancer and chemo when I was only 10 years old. Nonetheless, I remember how stressful and heartbreaking a time it was for the entire family.

I'm keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers. Take care.

(((((Alysha)))))

[greysangel]

((((((((((((((((((Alysha)))))))))))))))))

My dad had cancer in that started in the colon and spread to the liver. I know he had pretty aggressive chemo and didn't really have physical symptoms for a few years. I know he complained of feeling lousy/lack of energy, but other than that he lost weight...he was overweight at the time so he actually looked better for a long time. He always used to joke that people were commenting on how great he looked and how much weight he had lost while he was sick.

I think there are a lot of different treatment options and each person reacts differently.

((((((((HUGS)))))

j

[MKSquared]

(((((Alysha))))) Prayers coming from Columbus, too.

[Molli526]

Alysha,

I am so sorry to hear this. Hugs for you and DH.

I will be keeping you and your DH in my thoughts and prayers.

[sneezles]

Alysha,
I am so very sorry you didn't get better news! Will continue to pray for you and your family. Be strong and take care!
Two years ago an aunt of mine was treated for Stage III colon cancer with adjuvant 5-FU/Leucovorin chemotherapy treatment for 6 months following surgery. She did remarkably well during the treatments and is cancer free.
My father was treated at the Mayo clinic but that was almost 30 years ago and it was for stomach cancer.

[Beth]

I wish I had more information for you, but I share in your disapptment at the news. Remember though, it is just a bigger hurdle than you were hoping for -- one more hurdle, one hurdle at a time. I'll be sending my thoughts, hopes, prayers and hugs for you and your family.

[sneezles]

Alysha,
Try this site (http://www.icare.org/cancers/colon/colont3.htm)

[JackieO]

Alysha, my heart goes out to you. I've been away from the BBs for a while and just got caught up. Take gentle care. {{{{HUGS}}}}

[NewMrsG]

I'm SO, SO sorry. As with everyone else, I'll continue to keep you in my thoughts and to send my best wishes your way. I don't know to what extent spirituality is important to you, but my mother is always telling me that God never gives us more than we can handle. Hang in there as best you can.

Although my knowledge of chemo is fairly limited, I work in a hospital and I would tell you that a) getting a second opinion, but starting treatment at the same time is an excellent idea; and b) don't be afraid or shy of asking his medical providers any questions that you have - the American Cancer Society also has some excellent resources and the suggestion that KathrynY made about support groups is a great one if it's something you think might be of help (although we all cope in different ways and you should do what feels right for you). People do react to chemo in radically different ways - there are some great meds out now (as well as some behavioral treatments) to combat nausea and other side effects - don't be afraid to ask for them.

[lorilei]

Alysha - I certainly share your disappointment at such news -- and I send you many hugs and prayers.

One of the good things about the new types of chemo out there is that they're VERY aggressive, success rates are good, and they can target the CANCER itself rather than all the body's cells, so there are less side effects. I'll be praying that your husband responds well to the treatment and that you will all stay positive and upbeat, whatever happens.

Know that this situation, however hard, will only make your relationship stronger. And you have a whole network of wonderful people to turn toward when the going gets rough.

Lots of warm fuzzies... lo

[Leisa M]

(((Alysha & family)))

I have a friend who is going through radiation and chemo. I know it makes her tired and sick. Know that you are lifted to God on a daily basis, and that angels are biening(sp?) sent you way.

[alisajean]

((((((((((((Alysha))))))))))))

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your DH. The internet is such a wonderful tool obtaining information about Chemo and Radiation. You might be surprised how much information there is. Since you live close to Ohio, you might want to check out a Cleveland Hospital called University Hospital (The Ireland Cancer Center). The Ireland Cancer Center is where my brother-in-law received treatment. You may also want to check out Anderson Hospital in Texas.

[alisajean]

Here is the web site

http://www.irelandcancercenter.org/

[Terrytx]

Man oh man, I do ache for you. I wish I had a magic wand and could fix it, but I don't. The best of luck to you guys.

[NewMrsG]

I did have one other thought since you asked about the Mayo Clinic - there was a recent research study that came out on physicians and track records - basically the point was that the most important predictor of a physician's track record with treating particular diseases was the amount of personal experience s/he had - (so it would be less about what hospital/treatment center the person was associated with and more about the specific provider's experience) based on that, I might ask the person directing your DH's treatment about his/her background - how much experience s/he has in dealing with this sort of cancer, etc. If it's outside his/her specialty or typical experience, getting a second opinion from someone for whom this IS his/her specialty would be an especially good idea.

[JoanneOR]

Just want to send more hugs and prayers your way.

I am sorry that the news was not better.

[Kismet]

More thoughts and prayers headed your way. So sorry to hear that the news wasn't better. (((Alysha and family)))

[Beth H]

I am really sorry to hear this.

A friend of mine's dad has been diagonosed with colon cancer and it also had spread to his lymph nodes. He is undergoing chemo, and my friend said that he has had very few side effects from it (and he is older than your DH, probably in his early to mid 60s). I guess he has a difficulty with drinking really cold beverages and touching really cold things, but that only lasts a few days after the treatment and obviously it is something he can work around.

I think that every year the treatments become more effective and less invasive.

[sneezles]

Originally posted by alisajean
You may also want to check out Anderson Hospital in Texas.

Here's the link to this wonderful hospital (http://www.mdanderson.org/diseases/colorectal/) .

[Alethea]

Oh no, I am so sorry to hear this. My heart goes out to you, your DH, your children and families.

I don't have any close experience with cancer or it's treatment, but like others have said, I know the treatments have gotten so much better in recent years, both in terms of effectiveness and side effects.

As you and family gather your strength to meet and beat this new challenge, please know that all of us on the BB are here to support you, however we can.

(((Hugs)))
-Thea

[Melman]

{{{Alysha}}} I'm also so sorry to hear your news. More thoughts and prayers headed in your direction.

[jjsooner73]

More thought and prayers are coming your way.

I'm so sorry the news wasn't what you had hoped and that you and DH and kids are going through this. :(

[maizeyoats]

Alysha.....I'm sorry the news wasn't better; but it may not be quite as bad as you are thinking. I have a friend that just finished her treatment of Chemo and radiation. She wasn't nearly as sick as I thought she would be, in fact,her only complaint was feeling tired.

I'll continue to pray for you and DH

[lhall]

((((Alysha & DH & DS's))))

Alysha,

More prayers, I am sorry for the news, but I'm also sure you are in good hands.

Reactions to Chemo do vary. My mom's chemo for her brain tumor didn't cause her to lose her hair, but the radiation treatment did. She really didn't have any other side effects from the chemo, but she did have some eating restrictions. Ripened food (bananas, peaches, etc) made her feel sick.

Leigh

[Terri-Lynn]

Alysha I am so sorry to hear that the news is less then what you expected. We will continue to pray and hope that DH comes through the treatment well.

Thoughts and prayers coming your way!

Terri

[beejayw1]

Originally posted by lindrusso
I feel lost. If anyone out there has any information about chemo and/or radiation, etc. that might be of some help, I'd appreciate any information. I had not researched this area yet, as we were dealing with one thing at a time. Also, I anyone has any information on whether or not we should seek out the MayoClinic, that would be helpful as well. You can PM or email me directly.

Looks like we'll be needing those good thoughts and prayers to keep coming for quite a while longer.

Alysha

(1) you've got the prayers and good thoughts.

(2) Chemo and Radiation: I had to look into this for a dear old friend who is battling pancreatic cancer, so from what I am able to find out, it is:

(a) not as bad as it used to be even as little as 5 years ago
(b) big success ratio compared to as little as five years ago.

They have drugs now that actually are able to differentiate between a merely 'growing' cell (like your hair - the reason hair falls out in chemo) and a real cancer cell. They have radiation that is far, far more accurate than before.

Do a search for IMRT radiation technology. (Yes, it's called IMRT. It stands for Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy.) Lots of information available if you do a google search; also ask the oncologist.

Please keep us posted!

[Jessica]

More prayers and good thoughts from Minnesota. It sounds like you are being incredibly strong, Alysha, and I know you have what it takes to pull your family through this.

[Wendy w]

((((((((((Alysha and family)))))))))):(

I am so very sorry that the news wasn't better. Add me to those who are praying for you.

[misstapioca]

I will be thinking of you and your husband.

I remember when I lived in South Texas we sent patients on to MD Anderson quite frequently when we could not do any thing in Corpus Christi and they always came back much better, like a miracle had been performed.
Jen

[kristalsnow7]

(Alysha),

I am so very sorry to hear the news is not what you had hoped for! I will be praying for you, DH and your family. My 32 year old cousin was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer this past February. She underwent intense chemo/ radiation treatments for a few months, and is now well onto her way to recovery. Please keep up your strength and hope, and know that we are all here for you.

Big hugs.

[Jodi]

Alysha,
My heart aches for you and your family. I will continue to pray for your DH -- and you.
Hugs,
Jodi

[sharris315]

Alysha, I am so sorry your present news is not good--but, keep the faith. You'll get through--and so will DH...

I found a couple of sites which may (or may not) help:

http://www.cancerlinks.org

http://www.nci.nih.gov/cancercenters/centerlist.html

The last one is from the National Cancer Institute listing Comprehensive Cancer Centers. Only the best centers nationwide are given this status. There are 2 in IN: At IU and Purdue.

I'm saying extra prayers for your whole family.

Shar

[sharris315]

That second link does not seem to work. Try:http://www.nci.nih.gov/cancercenters then select centers list

Shar

[clairea]

(((((((Alysha and family))))). I am so sorry you didn't get the news you hoped for. I'm sending you a PM.

Claire

[Beth]

M.D. Anderson is a fantastic hospital for cancer treatment and a major research center as well. I remember seeing support groups and services on their website, so you might want to check and see what they can offer even if you are not a patient there. If you do have reason to leave your area and seek treatment there, you know you have several friends who will try to help you on this end (moi, for one).

[shoefling]

(((Alysha))) I am so sorry that you did not get better news. I will continue to keep you, your family, and your DH in my thoughts and prayers. Know that there is a strong support group here for you whenever you need us.

Sarah

[stefania4]

Alysha and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you.

As several others have said, there have been some amazing advances in chemo. Although I do still know people who go through the traditional chemo with loss of hair and appetite/energy, I also know several who went into remission after chemo and simply experienced tiredness during the process.

Hope is what fuels us all.

[lindrusso]

Thanks so much for the words of encouragment, links, continued prayers, etc.

I feel a bit more pulled together now. It was just overwhelming - we had been so hopeful. I realize there's no reason to NOT be hopeful now, but it's a much less clear and more difficult path that lies ahead as opposed to surgery taking care of all of it.

It was nice to pick the boys up from school today. I had promised to take them out for ice cream at a new ice cream place in town - their smiling faces were just the distraction I needed.

The good news is that DH gets to come home tomorrow. He was excited to be eating food again for the first time in a week, but you can't get too fired up about hospital food, so I can't wait to make a real meal for him. I tell ya - that hospital food is enough to make coronary patients out of those not already in for heart problems in the first place! :eek:

Alysha

[tamawrite]

Oh, Alysha. Many hugs and prayers. You will make it through. You will.

[nori]

Alysha, I just saw this thread. So sorry to hear this. My dad had similar situation when I was a child and although I was very small, I still remember I missed him so much. Good news he can come home for a while. I'll be thinking of you and your family.

[kwormann]

We are always here for you and will do anything we can for you!!!

[swquilts]

My prayers go out to you Alysha!

Two of my coworkers are undergoing chemo right now for breast cancer and,yes, they are both feeling crummy, but their spirits are quite high. Keep good thoughts....yours and ours combined will be a force to be reckoned with!! Take care.....

[HRJ]

(((Alysha)))

I was so sorry to hear the news wasn't what you'd hoped for, and, like everyone else, I'll be thinking good thoughts for you and DH and your boys. I'm sure you'll all be happy to have DH home soon. Please know that we're here for you.

Helene

[eas11]

(((Alysha)))

I am so sorry to hear your news. Be as strong as you can, but lean on others when you need to. I will keep thinking good thoughts for DH, you and your family.

Ellyn

[ErinM]

Alysha:

I am so sorry that you and your family has to go through this. Good healing, positive thoughts will continue to be with you and your DH. He WILL beat this!

[1MegMeg]

Originally posted by lindrusso
...I tell ya - that hospital food is enough to make coronary patients out of those not already in for heart problems in the first place! :eek:

Alysha

Totally off topic...but I 100% agree. I work in a hospital and we always joke that they are trying to drum up business for the CCU with their food! :p ...thought you could use a small chuckle

I am so sorry that you and your family are going through this. I cannot even begin to imagine what it's like. I know you probably have a million things running through your head right now and have an equal amount of things to look at online, but when you get a chance, look at www.clinicaltrials.gov. Clinical trials offer patients new medication and medical opportunities that are not yet widely available. It can often be incredibly helpful (medically), especially for cancer patients, to gain access to these new research treatments. Just a little additional food for thought. I am sure your DH's oncologist will know if there are any appropriate trials available for him.

Take Care! (HUGS)

[phantomcg]

((((((Alysha, DH & entire family))))))

I am so sorry that you did not get better news! I wish I could give you the words to take away all of your worry. Please know that I will be continuing to pray for you and your entire family.

My Dad went through chemo and radiation (he had brain, cancer and ulimately liver cancer) and if made him pretty tired. He also complained that when he ate something only the first bite or two tasted good. Of course, this was almost 7 years ago and I know that treatment is much different these days.

My thoughts and prayers will be with you. Please don't hesitate to let me know if there is anything at all that I can do for you.

Hugs, love and support,

Cheryl

[Kay Henderson]

I am so sorry, Alysha! I will be thinking of you as your husband continues his treatments.

[SueK]

Alysha- sorry to read that you didn't recieve better news. My heart goes out to you, DH, your sons and family. (((I'll continue to keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. )))

[jazzcat]

You, DH, and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

I wish you strength and the best possible outcome. Truely you are in my thoughts. Sending you all lots of hugs and as much support I can via the internet.

Beth

[Laura]

Alysha,

I am so sorry to hear the news was not better. You and your DH, and your boys on my prayer list. I am praying for healing for your DH and strength and peace for your entire family.

[Svadhisthana]

You and your family will be in my thoughts.

[TamiKnight]

Alysha, I was so hoping that you would get better news. My heart goes out to you. I have nothing eloquent to add to the words of love and encouragement here, but will promise to keep your family in my prayers.

[Meg O'C]

Alysha,

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I only know you from reading your posts but you strike me as a strong person! Hang in there. Unfortunately don't have anything to add on chemo or radiation. I do know two young people in my neighborhood who have been through cancer battles in the past 3 - 5 years (man in his early forties who went through radiation for a cancerous growth on his neck and a woman in her early forties who went through chemo for breast cancer). Both have now been given a clean bill of health but other than knowing what they were facing in terms of treatment I don't really know the details.

Again, thoughts and prayers to you.

[Peggy C.]

(((Alysha and DH))) I will continue good thoughts and prayers for you.

[SQ]

You and your family are in my thoughts.

Glad to hear that DH is coming home; I look forward to hearing good news from you soon!

[lindrusso]

Yeah! DH is home! No more hospital! :)

I must say that it was very frustrating to see some of the people in that hospital. There was DH, in for something completely beyond his control, facing a long, hard battle. The guy next to him was overweight and had diabetes - he was in for chest pains and a knee problem. When I came in he was drinking a Pepsi and eating a bag of Doritos (followed by a bag of some other junk). :rolleyes:

I guess I just got frustrated that this man probably, at least at one time, had the power to prevent his problems. I hope I didn't offend anyone with these comments - I know that this is not always the case and that I may be completely wrong with my take on this guy - I just wish that people would wake up and take better care of themselves!!!!

Alysha

[SandyM]

Hi Alysha,

I'm so glad he's home!! Great news!! :)

[syzygy]

Continued thoughts and prayers for a complete recovery.
It's amazing how far we've come and what can be done these days.
Keep positive thoughts and know that many many more are being sent your way.

[kirkbyky]

I'm sooo sorry to hear that your news was not what was hoped for. (((Hugs))) and prayers for you, DH and your family.

Kyle

[KristinK]

So glad to hear he's home! I'm sure he's in for some spoiling :)

[Beth]

Alysha, glad he is home. I know that will help all of you pull together and regroup for his treatment. SInce you do know better, I'm sure you will help your family do the best they can to stay healthy and to help your husband through a successful treatment.

[Robyncz]

Alysha,
I've been thinking about you and your family alot lately. I have held off posting because I can't think of anything inspiring or even helpful to say. But I wanted you to know that I am thinking about you and wishing you all the best as you deal with this.

Robyn

[gertdog]

(((((((((Alysha and family)))))))))

Alysha, I'm so sorry the news wasn't better. I have been thinking about all of you and will continue to send healing thoughts your way.

[sherri]

Alysha
I was so sorry to hear your news, but you seem to be remaining very positive. It sounds like you are doing a lot of research which is important.
I am glad your DH is home now.
Here is a link to a website that gives Nutrition and Cancer information...The American Institute of Cancer Research
www.aicr.org
I will say prayers for you and your family

[sneezles]

Alysha,
So glad to hear that your DH is home!
The recent issue of Real Simple recommends these 2 sites:

www.cancer.org It's the American Cancer Society's site. It has the Cancer Survivors' Network which you can search by zip code and it's best feature is the "Making Treatment Decisions" that has data on standard practices, centers that specialize in particular cancers and clinical trials.

www.cancer.gov Is the National Cancer Institute and has info on cancers, including it's genetics, info on how insurance companies cover clinical trials, and how to handle the side effects of chemotherapy. It's best feature is the PDQ (Physicians Data Query) section includes a database of about 1,800 clinical trials. It's searchable by type of cancer, type of trial and location of trial.

[Leisa M]

I got this by e-mail today from a friend that is going through chemo and radiation:


Answers to Prayers


We ask for strength and God gives us
difficulties, which make us strong.


We pray for wisdom and God sends us problems,
the solution of which develops wisdom.


We plead for prosperity and God gives us
brain and brawn to work.


We plead for courage and God gives us
dangers to overcome.

We ask for favors-
God gives us opportunities.

This is the answer


-Author Unknown

[Mamasue]

Alysha...checking in from Bar Harbor and sorry to hear the news about DH. Glad he is home and eating good food. My prayers and thoughts will continue for DH. Please hand in there! ;)

Hugs....Sue

[SusanL]

More prayers and hugs coming to you. So glad he is home!!

[Molli526]

Alysha,

So happy that your DH is home.

Hugs and prayers.

[ellamay]

I am so sorry to hear this news.

I would also like to direct you to MD Anderson hospital in Houston. (http://www.mdanderson.org) I have known several people with various types of cancer who have gone there for treatment. Sadly, a couple of them could not be cured but the treatment extended their lives and helped them feel better. My cousin's mother was diagnosed with stomach cancer and doctors gave her only a short time to live. She went to MD Anderson and has made it far past the time the doctors gave her.

My heart goes out to you and your family. You are in my prayers and the prayers of many.

[JenniferJJ]

I'm so sorry to hear the news. Prayers from Michigan.

[SusanL]

Continual prayers and good thoughts coming your way. Alysha, just to let you know that your and your family are not forgotten! Hugs!!!

[gabbyh]

Alysha,

I continue to keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers...and am sending many, many positive vibes your way.

~Gail H.

[jjcokc]

Prayers and positive thoughts coming from Oklahoma. My brother is a radiation oncologist and has always said he would send any member of his family to MD Anderson in Houston as he feels it is one of the best centers in the US.

Julie

[jmarie]

Prayers and good thoughts coming your way. I know this is a real blow and I am praying for wisdom ans strength as you make decisions and choices.

I really appreciate all the updates that you have provided for us...it gives us direction in and for our prayers. I have no advice having never been through this before. But I want you to know, you and your DH and family have thoughts and my prayers.
Joyce

[kcmo727]

Alysha,

I am so sorry that you and your family are going through this difficult time. My mother is a breast cancer survivor, and is doing just great now, but it was such a dark and frightening time in our lives. Please pm if you ever need to talk, although I am sure you are getting great support from your family and friends.

I wanted to send you this link to the Richard Bloch Cancer Foundation, a support organization for cancer patients. We found out about it after my mom was cured but I wish we had known about it then.

Here is the link:

http://www.blochcancer.org/

Richard Bloch was moved to create this organization, after he was diagnosed with terminal cancer, over twenty years ago. He beat the odds and now helps cancer patients and their families. I hope it is helpful to you.

You are in my prayers and I will light a candle at church for you.

Sending you a hug!

Michelle

[JHolcomb]

More prayers coming your way from NC.

[Gail]

I'm late as usual, but just wanted to ease in on the group hug and let you know I'll be including your family in our prayers, too.

G

[sushibones]

My family is also keeping you and your family in our prayers. May you be graced with strength, comfort, and healing.

Hugs,
Susan

[sharris315]

Just stopping in to say I hope DH is doing well--I'm sure you're all glad he's home.

I agree with your amazement at people who do not accept the responsibility for what they can control about their own health. Why would someone CHOOSE to be sick? I've just never understood that either. Your DH's roommate in the hospital is just one of zillions doing that very thing :confused:

Keep the faith...

Shar