Hi All,

It’s Frank here checking in with a quick update on my mom’s (Susan’s) progress. Treatment began five weeks ago today, and she continues to persevere and push through her treatment. She’s in the final days of radiation before beginning several weeks (or months) of recovery. There are a lot of positive markers of her progress so far; her doctors continue to be impressed by the strength she’s shown throughout an excruciating process.

The past week or so has been the most difficult stretch so far. She received a chemo infusion last Thursday and for the second time during treatment, she also wore a chemo pump for several days. This took a major toll, and her fatigue, appetite, and physical pain have been up and down every day since (sometimes even hour to hour). Every new symptom requires adjustments to her meds and food, and each shift in the medication results in new symptoms, more modifications to her diet and medication, etc. It’s a pretty gnarly (and frustrating) cycle, with each day a new adventure. Best of all (sarcasm alert), the doctor told her the other day that the next 4–6 weeks (the final week of treatment plus the first weeks of recovery) will likely be the toughest stretch of the whole process. Woo hoo.

All that said, my mom—ever the optimist—remains positive and upbeat about things. She has thrived on the kindness of Cancer Center staff (they’ve truly been amazing) and messages/visits/outreach from family and friends. She inspires me every day with her attitude and discipline. Much thanks to all of you for your support, kind thoughts, and words of encouragement.

Stay tuned for more updates in the coming days. If you’d like to stop by for a brief visit with Susan, send me a text (617-271-4781), and I’ll help coordinate things.

Much love to you all,

Frank