This month’s entry is very short – I’m just plain tired. We learned a lesson this month – more diligent use of masks and germ gel is in order until Jack’s immune system grows stronger. A week and a half ago, Jack started coughing and running a very slight fever – but when you’re on an aspirin a day and chemo, even a little fever is cause for concern. For a cancer patient, a fever of 101 degrees is the equivalent of 103 degrees. During last week’s scheduled lab check, we mentioned Jack’s “slight fever” and alarm bells went off with the nursing staff: an x-ray later, we learned that Jack again has pneumonia. Drats! As such, the doctor halted his chemo treatments; the chemo fights the cancer, but it also reduces the body’s ability to fight off infections, and the first order of business is for Jack to get rid of this pneumonia.
In today’s follow-up appointment, we learned that Jack’s cancer markers have doubled since last month, and his increased back pain/chest tightness may be caused by a vertebral stress fracture brought on by his coughing spasms. The doctor is not yet alarmed about the cancer markers; I wish I could say the same. Jack has been doing so well, with improved strength and reduced back pain. The pneumonia erased both to the extent that today Jack didn’t feel well enough to do any walking at his appointments. It is discouraging to take two steps backwards after so many steps forward.
We know things will change again, so we continue to take one day at a time, looking for silver linings in the clouds. We thank you all -- dear friends and family – for your unbounded love, support, and prayers. You are all unbelievable!
With much love,
Sue and Jack
