I am full of joy to declare that after consistant long-term improvements and plenty for which to be thankful, today is the 6 month mark of time passed since my last day of radiation treament on December 28, 2006. Perhaps it is my imagination, but it feels like things are getting more and more back to normal. My weight is coming back to a less bony point, I haven't been quite as constantly thirsty, my ears are slightly more clear, my hair is growing enough for people who only see me weekly to make lots of comments (although I still have some bald spots!), and many more tiny bodily functional problems that seem to be gradually fading away. It is a relief to think of that difficult treatment being that far behind me. I am working hard again as a pianist and vocalist (and regular jogger!), trying to build up important habits and skills in this earthly existance. Far from least importance, I am constantly reminded of my need to improve in training and educating my 3 precious kiddos.

Today I will be getting yet another blood test, followed by an MRI on July 6th, followed by a follow-up appt. with my radiation doctor. I am anxious and interested to hear his input on my progress!

July will be a challenge because my husband will be out of town for most of the next 3 weeks. The children have plenty of activities as well that will keep things busy, and I need to set a joyful example for them in the midst of that. Please pray for my dear hubby's safety and for my own wisdom while we await his return.

Continuously, I thank the Lord for His tremendous blessings on and gifts to us!

It has been about 6 weeks since our last posting, and the things to report have been much less significant. I am thankful to be back in nearly full gear with the busy schedule we have had (and will continue to have!). I still struggle with my energy on some days, but that can't slow me down too much. Since the last update, I have experienced a few interesting medical things:

• Nutrition specialist to gain back some weight - I haven't been back to the same doctor scale yet, but I do think I've gained back about 25% of the pounds lost, and I've been working hard at building more nutritional intake.


• Rehab Psychologist and speech therapist - Those were fun, but unnecessary and very expensive! Thankfully, my thinking process has been very little impacted, except for a bit of a struggle with names and word memory. They gave me exercises to help kick my brain back into gear.


• Gynocologist - My last blood test in April showed that there are some extremely low counts in certain areas. This reminded me that it had been almost 3 years (since Sophie was born) since I visited the OB/Gyn, so we took care of that too. Most of the girly tests came out normal, but following the appt. I was sent for a bone density test. Of the six risky factors toward Osteoporosis, I qualify for five of them. There is one part of my spine that has slightly deteriorated, and I was determined to be at the bottom of the scale at risk for future Osteo conditions. Their advice was to take Calcium and exercise every day, which thankfully I'm already doing.

I'll be having another MRI in about a month, followed up by the usual appt. with the Radiation Oncologist.

Our family schedule seems to have gotten busier and crazier than ever lately, but it is full of many blessings. The Lord teaches me things in the midst of my anxiety and experience every week, and I am constantly shown my own areas of weakness and sin on which I need to repent and improve.

I was pulling some weeds in the garden yesterday and enjoyed viewing all of the new growth on plants that were sent following my surgery last September. I can't tell you how frequently I am reminded of the joys and graciousness you all have provided in the months since then. The incredible amounts of prayers are a humbling delight.

Thank You Lord, for Your continuous love and provisions through our dear ones!

Love,

Karen (KP)