Progress

I want to update you on our progress.  My last post was less than encouraging, I know, but I was honest about my thoughts and feelings and I felt that I needed to express and share.  I received so much encouragement as a result, which I needed so badly and I am extremely appreciative for all the responses I received!

Yesterday we had an appointment with a Naturapath here in Toledo.  She had been recommended to us by the Naturapath we were seeing at CTCA so we concluded that this was a credible suggestion.  Her name is Dr. White and she is located in West Toledo.  Arnie had talked to her several times on the phone and she told him what information she would need from us so he gathered all that together and off we went to see her.

Two hours later, we left her office - totally impressed and satisfied that she is exactly the same caliber of person we saw at CTCA with the addition of a dietician.  The dietician at CTCA was a separate person who we also talked to often, but Dr. White will fill the capacity of both people we saw at CTCA.

Her approach to cancer treatment seems to reflect the approach that CTCA has - that you treat the entire person who has cancer - not just the disease.  We really questioned her - comparing her answers to what we had gotten from CTCA and we were totally satisfied with her answers and comments.  Those of you who know Arnie, know that he REALLY quizzed her!! She was equal to the task and provided us with good information.

We will return to see her in a week after she goes over our situation, to give us her recommendations.  I feel that the supplements have made such a difference in the quality of life.  We were told that it is much more beneficial for the body to fight the cancer rather than to fight the side effects so we do everything we can to make those side effects minimal and manageable.  It really does make a difference!

Please keep us in your prayers.  I will keep you posted.  Thanks to you again for all your support and encouragement!

Keep us in your prayers!

Have not posted anything here for quite some time so I thought maybe I should write something.  I always intended this blog to be inspirational or encouraging to all who read it - that was sort of my purpose in starting it way back when.  Lately, however, I  can not exhibit that attitude. 

We have been going through a struggle with this new chemo drug and I am feeling the emotional toll, as Arnie is feeling more of the physical.  The side effects seem to be very present which causes us to have to deal with that as well as try to continue on the medication for the cancer. 

I find myself dwelling on the thoughts of back when I lost my brother to lung cancer.  How vividly I remember receiving that phone call from my brother, Pete, on December 24, 2006 telling me that Ed had passed away.  That feeling of loss and grief was so present - that day, which was one of my favorite days because it was Christmas Eve became one of the saddest days of my life. 

We have been on this journey since 2007, with a couple of breaks where Arnie was cancer free.  To say the least, we are weary!  Sometimes I feel that my faith just isn't as strong as it should be - that is on the bad days.  There are "okay" days too, where I feel better- mostly because Arnie is having a better day.  Sometimes I just feel so helpless and I can admit it -- angry! 

We are still going to St. Josephs Mercy in Ann Arbor Michigan.  We have an appointment to see a Naturapath here in Toledo on Friday.  She has been recommended to us by the Naturapath we saw at CTCA.  In fact, CTCA has been in touch with the her and has briefed her on Arnie's condition.  Hopefully she will be able to help with suggestions for easing some of the side effects, etc, that Arnie is facing at this time.

Please keep us in your prayers.  Prayer is a positive and powerful thing.  When people say "all I can do is pray for you", honestly - it is the very best thing anyone can do!  We so appreciate the love and prayers of our family and friends.   God Bless each of you!