Went to see the Oncologist on Thursday (15th)---originally scheduled for Tuesday, but Cathy's mom and oldest brother, Greg, came up to visit (actually to work :}). The family visit went really well and Cathy and team were able to get much done--unfortunately, she spent most of Wednesday recuperating from Tuesday!

Anyway--the doctor visit on Thursday did not contain any positive news, as the blood results continue to show a steady increase in the disease. We were able to get blood drawn to check Cathy's ammonia level, as we were fairly certain that she was suffering from elevated levels of ammonia.

"The liver removes toxic chemicals from the blood. When the liver is damaged from disease or injury, the cells of the liver are unable to function properly. They become unable to remove byproducts of metabolism such as ammonia resulting from protein digestion. High amounts of ammonium ion in the blood affects the brain with a range of symptoms from mild confusion to possible brain damage and death."

The normal range for ammonia is 7-10. Cathy's level was up around 100. We will be getting a prescription antacid that is supposed to help absorb the ammonia and hopefully improve her symptoms. 

We are still waiting on the Lord and seeking guidance for what to do next. We are considering stopping ALL forms of drugs (including the herceptin) as there appears to be no noticeable change in the progression of the disease. The Oncologist  does not have the same mindset as we do: we are in this to WIN this and defeat the cancer! They believe that death is inevitable and are not as concerned about the condition of her heart (herceptin can weaken heart muscles) and they were not interested in what the ammonia could do to her (possible coma,death). Fortunately, they HAVE been willing to 'humor' us and provide the tests and prescriptions. That is another reason of possibly cutting off drugs/traditional treatments, as we want 'teammates' who want to WIN as badly as we do!

We know that ALL things are possible with God and will submit to whatever HIS plan is for Cathy so that HE might be glorified. Cathy's cancer and life have been and always will be in the Hands of our loving Creator. HE will ultimately decide the outcome. All we can do is pray and trust in HIM. Thank you for standing with us. Your prayers keep us fighting!

Mike