8th chemo - expecting good scan result

The El Camino Hospital Cancer center has become our most visited place since Jan. 2014.  We come here three days every two weeks, to do blood lab, to see our oncologist and NP, to receive chemo, to get Neulasta, and to get scans. However, this week we have made a few more trips because Gwohann's right fingers have been feeling numb.  Our integrative radiologist is certain that the Mediport did not block his nerves. A sonogram on his right arm reveals no abnormalities, now we are waiting for his brain MRI result this Friday.  Thus far, I don't see any unusual behaviors from Gwohann, except that he can't stop eating watermelon :-), so I am expecting a clear MRI.  We will explore other possible causes afterwards.

Chemo went well, Gwohann had a good nap.  The blood report is very good.  Every value is within normal range which is amazing, and the best part is that the tumor marker CEA continues to drop! Praise God!  The result makes the suffering feel worthwhile.

Powered by Dexamethasone, he went to attend our church board meeting in the evening.  Although I am worry, I let him go, because I know he is choosing life over cancer.

Next CT scan will be on Oct. 8.  We pray and expect a good result!

-- Jacqueline

7th chemo - good blood result

Every cubicle of the infusion center is occupied this morning.  It is a solemn reminder of the prevalence of cancer nowadays.  Some patients look new to the battle as they nervously fiddle with the infusion tubes.  We have been there.  Now we learn to settle in quickly so Gwohann can catch as much sleep as possible because he won't be tonight.  As I watch the seven drugs infused into his body drop by drop, I pray that every drop destroys his cancer under God's mighty name!

"The blood report looks great!", exclaimed our oncology NP Katie Khul.  "I have never seen such good report for the chemo treatment that you are on.  Keep doing whatever you are doing!".  Indeed, Gwohann has put in his famous disciplines in fighting his cancer.  He walks 10K steps a day and drinks the vege/fruit smoothies that I make regardless how disgusting they look or taste.  He learns to balance work and life.  He learns to relax, let go, and enjoy life.  We feel encouraged that our efforts make a difference.

Keep going! Gwohann. Let's win the battle!

-- Jacqueline

6th Chemo - feeling better

I got to tell you first that one week after the last chemo, Gwohann's chest started to feel clearer and he could breath better!  The tumor marker CEA index also dropped, reflecting the effectiveness of the chemo.  With a renewed hope, we started the 6th chemo with a lighter heart.  The infusion proceeded smoothly. When Gwohann woke up, he was delighted to see our friends who brought a feast of his favorite foods.  His appetite opened up so much that he refilled his plate three times! Enjoying the delicious food with the good company, we almost forgot that we are having chemotherapy.  Thank You to our wonderful friends for being so kind to us!  We are also grateful for those of you who keep us in your good thoughts and prayers.  

Gwohann couldn't sleep for the first two nights due to the dexamethasone (a steroid) that he received. We are prepared that he will be fatigued for several days, with bone aches, headache and a low degree fever.  Chemo is still hard, but we are hopeful because the drugs are working and his chest is feeling better!