10-31-2009 The cruise is over and we are back to the routine. Pam had a CT scan on Wednesday and met with her oncologist yesterday. Pam was down after learning that the scan showed the cancer may be spreading. Some lesions were found on both lungs and the report hinted that they may have been obscured by effusions on previous scans. Some enlarged lymph node lesions were noted in the mid-mesentery area and one on the liver has slightly increased in size. The ascites has decreased around the abdominal area.

Despite the report, Pam's doctor was pleased with her color, energy, and overall appearance. He will change the chemo treatment to doxil. Pam will undergo a muga scan (x-ray of the heart) to verify she can tolerate doxil, which may affect heart tissue .

We have been blessed by the support of all our friends and ask for your continued prayers for Pam's healing. God bless all of you.

10-24-09 We are on our way back toward Fort Lauderdale and will dock on Tuesday morning. Pam did exceptionally well on three side trips ashore-climbing stairs in and out of busses, walking up inclines and around tourist sites, and sampling all kinds of food. She is thoroughly enjoying this cruise and has experienced wonderful endurance and has participated in many activities every day. Many cancer surviviors have noticed her smile, positive attitude and energy and have made special efforts to express their support for her cancer fight.

This cruise has been a wonderful break from chemotherapy. Your prayers and support have been the source of her drive and energy. God bless you!

10-21-2009 Pam is doing very well as we cruise toward St. Maarten. Even winds of 30 knots and seas of 4-5 feet have not affected Pam. She is eating and sleeping with no problem and most of all-she is feeling no ill effects from the cancer. Pam looked great after a manicure and haircut yesterday and wowed the crowd at a formal dinner. People have remarked how cute her scarves are and have admired her needlepoint.

We certainly have appreciated all your best wishes for a successful vacation. Love to al our friends.

10-16-09 Pam finished her residual chemo infusion yesterday, but she has had stronger than normal abdominal pains during the week. Consequently, the CT scan scheduled for this morning has been rescheduled for October 28th. Pam is resting more comfortably this afternoon and she is looking forward to playing the handbells and singing with the choir on Sunday.

Thank you all for your caring and sharing with us during the past 17 months of treatments.

10-13-2009 Pam was very happy she was able to have chemo yesterday. Her white cell count was acceptable, but she does not have an explanation for it. Having chemo this week is very important because we will be traveling from October 19-27 on a cruise to the eastern Caribbean. Pam's oncologist fully supports her travel and he will give her a shot to help stabilize her blood count.

Pam's CT scan has been rescheduled to Friday, October 16th. Since Pam is connected to an infusion chemo pump until tomorrow, rescheduling was the more efficient approach to undergoing the scan.

Pam has been feeling stronger recently. She continues to be active in the church and community choirs and related musical activities.

We believe your prayers and support are responsible for her renewed energy level and Pam' s own determination and optimism to master the cancer. May God bless you all!

10-8-2009 Pam did not ahve chemo yesterday because her blood test showed a low white cell count. Last week the platelets were the problem, but the platelets count was acceptable this week.
Pam is a bit discouraged because there is no real method for increasing the white cell count and she has not had chemo for several weeks. She will try to have chemo again on Monday, October 12th, She is still scheduled for a CT scan on Tuesday, October 13th.

10/2/2009

Pam consulted with her oncologist today to discuss the treatment plan. Her doctor was pleased with here overall appearance and and her positive attitude. He made adjustments to her pain medication to help alleviate the shifting abdominal pains and scheduled a CT scan on October 13th. Her last CT scan was completed in April. She also learned that the toxicity of the chemo affects the blood and no way to ensure sufficient white cell or platelets counts is available.

Pam's doctor had submitted tissue samples from her initial biopsy to a lab for cutting edge tests related to cancer of unknown origin. The tests were designed to analyze the molecular structure of the tumor and help ascertain genetic influences related to the cancer. We learned the tests were not conducted because of an inadequate tissue samples. No plans for an additional biopsy have been discussed.

This weekend will be one for relaxation. We plan to visit the Orlando contingent of our family to watch grandson Jonathan play soccer. Our church will celebrate Worldwide Communion Sunday and the choir will contribute greatly to the service.

Thank for all your prayers and blessings.

10/1/2009 Pam was extremely busy this past week, starting with directing the sanctuary choir on Sunday. She was the substitute director at the rehearsal of the ensemble section of the Treasure Coast Community Singers on Monday. On Wednesday, Pam worked with the children and directed the sanctuary choir rehearsal. Pam certainly enjoyed doing what she loves.

Pam was unable to have a chemo treatment on Wednesday because of a low white blood count and a low platelet count. There seems to be nothing Pam can do to ensure a good blood count. She has eaten well, maintained a steady weight, and experienced little, if any, pain. Pam will meet with her oncologist tomorrow and go over her overall treatment plan. Meanwhile, the next chemo is scheduled for October 7th.

Tuesday, September 29th, was Pam's birthday. She ordered a shrimp po'boy with all the trimmings at a Cajun restaurant. It had been a long time since rich food appealed to her. Our children made certain the house was festive with beautiful flowers, balloons, and carrot cake, Pam's favorite. We also had a earlier weekend celebration at the home of good friends where Pam enjoyed a gourmet meal and a delicious homemade carrot cake. Pam was very happy on both occasions and showed no ill effects from the cancer.

Pam has been able to do what she loves because of the prayers, support, and encouragement of all our friends. may God bless you all.