September 14th

Today’s doctor visit saw the usual blood test and Herceptin infusion number 22. The mass in the breast remains about the same as the last measurement. There was little talk of next steps that was pleasant. With the last tumor marker test taken showing another increase and today’s test results pending, our anxiety and stress levels are increasing due to concern of what’s next. It’s hard to even think of taking something (chemotherapy) that is known to make you feel sick when you currently feel well.

After the infusion we went across the street to Northside Hospital for Karen to have an Echocardiogram or “Echo” as more frequently called. She has this test done approximately every three months to monitor her heart function because Herceptin can result in heart problems.

We are feeling a little overwhelmed with the continued increase in the tumor markers and the thought of Karen returning to chemotherapy. Our recently found family schedule and routine would most likely be sharply changed as Karen’s energy, if she responds like last time, would be zapped. Stress levels are on the rise and patience levels are dropping. We covet your prayers. Please pray the cancer will shrink unexplainably and the tumor markers will drop so dramatically that again doctors are left “scratching their heads”. Thank you for checking in on Karen.

Until next week…