Hi!
I know it has been a few weeks since my last journal entry, so I wanted to check in and update everyone on what has been going on with me lately.
Michael and I were recently in New England to celebrate his sister, Amanda's wedding. What a terrific time! He and I were both in the bridal party, so it was really special to be part of all the fun. Amanda looked so gorgeous, and everything about the entire weekend was perfect. For the several days we were there, I can't tell you how nice it was to be distracted from the reality of day to day life. I was quickly reminded, however, when we had to leave to drive down to Manhattan for my appointment and treatment at Sloan. Mr. and Mrs. Paul were so kind to take me after such a whirlwind week of wedding festivities. We stayed in the city for a couple of days where I had the usual meeting with Dr. Kemeny, and received another round of chemotherapy. Fortunately, everything went fine and there weren't any complications. I have another treatment next week, and then go up for another scan on August 2nd.
Although each scan stirs up feelings of nervousness and anxiety, I am especially anxious for my upcoming scan. I will have received three Avastin infusions since they added it into my chemo regimine. I just pray that it'll show improvement or stability. That will give me some peace of mind that I desperately need since my CEA levels have been fluctuating here and there.
The rest of July is will be pretty low-key which is nice because the rest of the summer is packed with lots of exciting activities! I can't wait to travel back to Michigan for the Team Fabulous "Everything Fabulous" Yachting Extravaganza on August 29th! It's going to be so great....and also a reason to celebrate how far I have come since my diagnosis. I am so grateful to everyone for their donations, prayers, love, and encouragement. While in Michigan, I am going "on tour" so to speak. Maybe I should get t-shirts made..ha ha!! I'll be in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Traverse City, and Saginaw for my cousin Melissa's wedding.
Overall, I am doing well. I have still been working out like mad, and my energy level has stayed high during my non-treatment days. What I seem to struggle with is keeping my head up and not letting news reports or articles on the internet about colon cancer, or any cancer for that matter discourage me. Sometimes I just have to remind myself (or have others remind me) that every person's situation is different, and just because someone else may have lost their battle, doesn't mean I will. The important thing is that I feel strong and healthy despite it all. I am hoping that by maintaining a healthy lifestyle will contribute to wellness...it's nice to feel in control of that since I feel so out of control the majority of the time. I still have a hearty appetite which is very important because so many people undergoing treatment cannot eat or do not have an appetite. I feel the complete opposite...sometimes I don't think I can get enough food! (Triscuits especially)
Well...I hope everyone is having a great week! I will be sure to post another update before my next trip to New York for my scan. In the meantime...thanks for your prayers! They never go out of style! :)
Luv,
Erica FABULOUS!
