26th Treatment at the Block Center

Not only did God provide safe travel, but we also managed to "skirt" all the rain storms in the area on our trip to Chicago.

For the past three visits, Cathy's port has been troublesome. While they have been able to infuse the medications, they were unable to draw blood for lab tests. Mercifully, that changed on this trip. We were so happy to see her blood flow when they drew it for a tumor marker test!! This saved her a trip to the hospital where her port was installed. Please pray that the problem has been finally resolved.

Since Cathy has discontinued the hormone therapy it has allowed her body to resume a healthier weight - that, along with due diligence concerning her diet. This was a pleasant surprise.

The Block Center has requested another CT Scan in 2 weeks. Gratefully, this will help track the progress of the new drug Kadcyla. Please pray for the radiologist who will read this scan that he will note all the information needed to make a wise decision about continuing this treatment.

Cathy also received the results from her quarterly Nutritional Lab Panel. This is a 19 page, detailed report on her levels of antioxidants, inflammation, circulation, glycemia and immune panels. Ginger, the dietitian, used words like; fantastic, stable, good and perfect The inflammation panel did reflect the tissue growth in her liver by rising just a little. They have made a few changes in her daily supplement regiment.

One "quirky" side effect happened while they were infusing the Kadcyla. Cathy noticed that her right foot and ankle was swelling. They immediately stopped the I.V. and gave Cathy a steroid. Within 5 to 10 minutes her foot was back to normal and they resumed administering the final five minutes of the Kadcyla. On our trip home she did notice that it was beginning to swell again so we ask that you keep this in prayer.

Overall, this was a positive visit. Please remember that Cathy will be exhausted for 5 to 7 days after treatment and pray for her energy levels. She also continues to experience a dry mouth which interrupts her ability to sleep and feel rested.

I would like to personally note that Cathy gives encouragement to staff, family and patients while at the Block Center. I'm thankful for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and pray that she will always have the right words for all she encounters during this journey in life.

Lori