As expected, Friday 24June, was an eventful day. Karen started her day at about 04:00 that morning. At approximately 08:00 they began the therapeutic parasentisis. This involves an ultrasound guided needle in the abdomen to remove ascites (fluid). While Karen isn't excited about the process, she did experience relief as they removed over 2 liters (half a gallon) or approx 4 pounds of fluid. This is a process that we hope not to repeat but isn't uncommon with disease affecting the liver.

Once finished there we went over to see her Gastroenterologist who, upon seeing her badly swollen legs, ankles and feet put her back on the diuretics. He (Dr. Levert) said he'd like to monitor Karen's progress with a follow up visit in two weeks or sooner if she felt she needed it.

A quick bite of lunch and then we went to her Oncologist. She (Dr. Galleshaw) reviewed with Karen the results of lab (blood & urine) work. Karen's liver function continued the drop and she still had the bladder infection so another round of antibiotics was prescribed. The good news is that her kidney function had improved. She was sent from there back to the hospital to have a Thrombosis Ultrasound. They were looking to see if she had any blood clots in the veins of her legs. They did find clotting in the secondary veins which, left untreated, can grow and move into the main veins which could move the clots to other parts of her body. She was told she would need to begin daily injections (by needle) of a drug called Lovenox. Needless to say this, on top of a long day, was a little overwhelming. It was about 18:30 when we got the news.

On Saturday, 25June, Karen needed to begin the injections. Since Karen nor I had ever given an injection we called a friend of the family (a nurse) to help Karen. It was a good day. Despite painfully swollen feet, Karen got out of bed and spent time visiting with friends and family. God is teaching us to be thankful for what we do have versus focusing on what we don't.

Looking forward, Karen is scheduled to see the Oncologist on Thursday, 30June. This will be for another infusion of Herceptin and follow up lab work. Please pray that Karen will tolerate this well and have a much better experience than with the last infusion. Also pray for healing, wisdom and peace.