CHEMO X4

Good evening. I realize it is late so I will be brief.

Gary had one chemo drug today and will have three more tomorrow morning. The drugs tomorrow are the wicked ones and they are the ones that wreak the most havoc on his system.

WE WILL NEED BLOOD DONORS THIS WEEK AT HOAG'S DONOR CENTER.

Usually on the 8th day from the start of chemo Gary needs blood. So, if anyone that is 0+ or 0- and is eligible to give blood could do so then that would be more than awesome! 764-5621 is the number to the Hoag Blood Donor Center and as long as you give it before the weekend it should be ready to go for him by next week. REMEMBER to donate for Gary's personal bank when you go in. How great is it that so many of you have taken one for the team and shed your blood for Gary! We are so grateful!!!

Gary's pain is being managed by the fentynl drip and the "button" that delivers an extra 50 mcg. every 10 minutes. It is just an insane amount of drugs and we are hoping that as soon as this stimulator is in place that he can back off of these drugs. We know it takes time to dial the program into the machine that will control his pain. We are having to wait a little longer than expected to have the surgery because of the chemo schedule. His counts (white, red and platelets) will drop harshly around the 8th day and in order to have the surgery he has got to be strong. So, the cancer takes the front stage and the pain will have to continue to be treated with meds in the meantime. I guess we have to prioritize the battles at this stage in the game.
We will most likely plan to have the surgery sometime during the week of Oct. 20.

Gary had a decent day. He is in loads of pain but managed to eat 3 meals and smile a little. We even snuggled while he received chemo today at Barth's office. We don't get to do that very often. I miss that and I will take it anytime he is comfy enough to give it!

It is Nate's turn tonight to sleep on the floor in our room. I love that the boys love to be in here. It is a little challenging getting around them but I will manage.

Love, Hugs and Prayers to you all!

Goodnight

Lisa :)