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Jan 6, 2009 7:32 pm

I had a great day at school. It really felt like the old days. I can't wait to see the kids tomorrow.

My counselor use to say "be kind to yourself" so I've decided tonight's a good night for kindness on the couch. I am tired so I will try to rest so I can make it through the rest of the week.

Thanks for your messages of encouragement.

Jan 5, 2009 9:52 pm

I can't believe it's been a month since I've updated you. We have been doing very well. We had a GREAT CHRISTMAS!!! It was just good being together. All of life is much sweeter these days.

I had my second outpatient chemo. last week and it went well. I have had a bit of nausea and vomitting due to increase in dosage of oral chemo. The doctor had me split the dose to morning and evening which has helped greatly.

I GO TO SCHOOL TOMORROW!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'm so excited. I'm afraid I won't sleep tonight.

I have also tossed my wig. It feels wonderful to be free of that thing. My hair is very short and I'm spiking it up.

I want to once again thank all of you for your many many prayers and support in so many ways. I don't know if I've put it on my page or not but I have an image in my head of people running to us to love us during those first few months. I have thought of how much God loves me and my family and that He is doing it through all of you. Thank you for being obedient. I have been blessed through it.

Please continue to pray that I will stay in remission. I think I will have another blood test for remission in February but the doctors have said different things so I'm not sure when. Also, it's important that I manage my stress level. Those of you who know me know that I love a project and I love to OVERDO anything. This is what will create the most stress I think. Please pray that I will be able to focus on the most critical responsibilities and not get bogged down in doing extras.

I hope you all have a Very Happy 2009!! Thanks for everything and I will let you know how school goes. I hope it's as good as I think it will be. I am a bit concerned about my chemobrain. I am forgetting things so the Franklin Covey is working overtime.

With much love,

Ann

Nov 21, 2008 9:52 pm

Joanne went to Emory with me yesterday. Jarred was going to go but Joanne thought I should have an adult. It turned out that I didn't get the word not to eat breakfast so I couldn't do the easy sedation that would have worn off immediately. Instead, I had to get Adivan. As before, I don't remember a lot of the rest of the day after Adivan. This being the case, it was great that Joanne was with me. I haven't talked to her today yet but I just told Tim that I would have to call her tomorrow to get a debriefing from our trip. I really don't remember a lot.

I had blood work early yesterday and then the bone marrow. After that we went to see Dr. Khoury. He snipped the two stiches holding my line in place and then just pulled it out. The only thing that hurt was snipping the stitches. I assume it was pulling on the skin. I do remember the doctor saying he was going to leave the port in. I mentioned that he said he would pull it out today. He said he thought he would leave it in until after this bood work comes back in a couple of weeks. That bothered me a bit like "let's see if this is really going to work". I decided that I would have it removed anyway since I will get a true port if I have to get another instead of the tubes that I have had that hang out.

Again, I will get results in two to three weeks. Please pray that the numbers go even lower than they were before. Some people can even be considered "negative" if there is no sign at all of this abnormal DNA. I'm sure this is confusing when you think about being in remission but talking about presence of bad DNA. The DNA analysis being done on my blood is the same type of testing that I did in the crime lab. It allows the detection of even a very small amount of this abnormal DNA by making millions of copies of it. This is just like detecting DNA from skin cells on a cigarette butt because you make millions of copies of the DNA before probing for it.

Marie and I spent some girly time together today. We ate out and spent time at Barnes and Noble....one of my favorite places. Tonight we finished off my birthday celebration by taking the whole family and Shirley out to eat and to see Madagascar. It was really cute.

Thanks for your continued support.

Ann

Nov 20, 2008 4:49 pm

Yeahhhhh!!!! I made it to another Birthday. I am 44 today and happier than ever to celebrate a birthday.

I have had a great day. It started with my family having gifts and cooking breakfast for me. It continued with Joanne having our carpool kids come to the door to serenade me with "Happy Birthday". I'm sure they were willing and excited but they usually don't speak a word on the way to school so I appreciate them going the extra mile to sing for me at 7:30 this morning. FYI it was Emily Cox, the DiGiorgios, and the Hildebrands. I did hate that they had to be shocked at the absence of hair on my head as I stood there in my big white fuzzy robe and ankle high black socks.

We are going out to eat Saturday night and to a movie to complete our celebration. After cancer a birthday is a brand new experience.

I do have some short hairs on my head and some eyebrows and short eye lashes. That is pretty exciting.

Hope everyone is well.

Ann

Nov 19, 2008 9:28 pm

The teachers at Whitefield are staying well so I haven't been called to sub. so I decided to go in today and volunteer my services wherever I could. This would be good to get me back to Whitefield and to get me out of the house.

As it turned out, Cordie Swift needed to run out for a little while this morning so I filled in for her. I also ate lunch and then had to leave. It was GREAT being at school, seeing the kids, and seeing all of my friends. The kids were so nice to me. I had a blast. I can't wait to get back in the classroom.

I am feeling good...exceptionally well considering a full day and night today.

Thanks for all of your continued support.

Ann

Nov 16, 2008 6:57 pm

I just got back from Alabama. We camped out last night in the cold weather. We really had a good time and didn't get too cold.

I got two more apts. out of the way on Thursday. I went for my "ladies" apt. and my eye apt. The eye doctor could not see any of the problems that Leukemia can cause. I got some new contacts too. I haven't worn contacts for seven months due to potential infection. My dental apt. is scheduled for December. I have a mouth full of cavities because I could not floss and I had to use a very soft toothbrush. It was just about impossible to get my teeth clean.

I hope to sub. this week at Whitefield. I really want to get back over there.

I have been replaying a lot of the last seven months in my head and continue to be amazed at all of the support that you all have offered us. We appreciated EVERYTHING that everyone has done for us. Maybe you just spoke an encourageing word or maybe you sent a card or a meal or transported our children. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We especially appreciate you lifting our names up to the throne room.

I continue to feel good except for getting tired at the end of the day. I guess it will take a little longer to get all of my energy back.

Thanks again,

Ann

Nov 9, 2008 9:40 pm

No news is good news right??? I have really been enjoying myself. I did get red cells last Thursday due to chest pains. It got rid of the chest pains and the shortness of breath. I walked all the way to Covenant Christian on Friday afternoon. It was slow but really good. I had no shortness of breath or rapid heart rate. I could really feel it in my legs. I walked again today and feel great.

We went Alabama to visit this weekend and had a wonderful time. I got to visit with cousins and friends that I had not seen in a long time.

I go back for blood work tomorrow and maybe all counts will be normal.

As a Christian who has gone through this rough time I feel like I have to do something with it to honor God. I am waiting for Him to let me know just what that is. I love to do things so I could jump into many things quickly and miss what He has planned. So I'm trying to be patient. I do think that I will be sharing this story or parts of it in some way. I would be very interested to know what you would like to know about my journey. That would help me figure out all of the "stuff" that is jumbled in my brain right now. I don't know what is important and what people would like to know. Any of you who know me or who have just read my Care Page know that I am an "open book". I would welcome any questions that would get me thinking. What are you interested in?????

I go in to Emory on Friday the 21st for a bone marrow biopsy and blood work. I will also get my port out so I can take a bath again instead of a shower. Shortly after that I will go in for my first outpatient chemo. at Georgia Cancer Specialists at next to Cobb Hospital. I love those people. I know they really care about me.....doctors, nurses, and all.

I went to see Randy, the guy who is getting the transplant, last Tuesday. He is doing fairly well. There is talk of him going home next week. This doesn't mean all is well and that he is out of the woods. He still has two months at home that will be critical. Please pray for him. Remember he is 48 and has a seven and four year old. He has much to live for.

Thanks for sending me your questions. And thanks for your continued prayers. Please pray that I will stay in remission.

I love seeing you all around town and at church.

Ann

Oct 31, 2008 9:19 pm

So far I have had no sign of sickness. I went to the doctor this morning. My platelets are in the normal range. My white cells are in the safe range but not normal yet. My red cells are even lower still but since I feel well I didn't have a transfusion today. I will go back Monday to be sure my red cells aren't going to low. I'm really excited about my counts returning. I look forward to getting my old life back. Of course now we have a new "normal" which will entail short monthly visits for outpatient chemo. and a check every other month to be sure the Leukemia is not coming back. I will also stay on the oral chemo.

Thanks for all of your encouragement and prayers. I am planning to go to Sunday School and Church on Sunday. I can't wait.

Ann

Oct 28, 2008 4:58 pm

Jonathan has been home the last two days with a sore throat and fever. I took him to the Dr. today and he has Strep. Please pray that I won't get it this last week of low counts. I would probably have to go to the hospital for IV antibiotics if got Strep.

Other than that we are all well. I still feel good except for shortness of breath due to low red cell count.

Thanks,

Ann

Oct 27, 2008 12:00 pm

Sorry I haven't given you any updates lately. It just means things are going well and I'm busy being mom.

I did have to get platelets last Wednesday but did not last Friday. I had a busy but fun weekend doing kid activities. I really enjoyed the Upward Event last night. It was great seeing everyone.

I went to the Dr. this AM and did not need any blood. My white cells are still low but on the rise. He thinks that I should be "safe" by the end of the week as far as being around crowds. He also thinks that all of my counts should be in the normal range by the end of next week. I'm very excited about this. If all goes well this should be the last time I have to worry about blood counts. I plan to go to Sunday School and church this coming weekend. My red cells are pretty low which just means I get winded very easily.

I go back to Emory on the 21st of November for a bone marrow biopsy and blood test. I will also have my catheter taken out. I can't wait to get rid of it. I won't feel as "sick" or "diseased" without this foreign thing hanging out of my chest. It has been great though not having to get stuck all the time. I will have to get stuck once a month now for my monthly outpatient chemo. If it is too much for my veins I will have a port put in. It is under the skin and doesn't prevent you from swimming or taking a bath. I also won't have to tape it up to take a shower.

Thank you so much for your continued support in every way. This whole thing has gone remarkably well. I've had no serious complications. The headache was just an ordeal but not serious. God is faithful and has heard all of our prayers. Please continue to pray that I will stay in remission and never have to have a transplant.

Ann

Oct 19, 2008 8:20 pm

Thank you so much for your encouraging messages. I really love getting them.

I did get platelets on Friday so I spent the day at Cobb Hospital. It went well though. I go back tomorrow for another check. I expect to need more platelets either tomorrow or Wednesday. After that my counts should be on the rise to normal and hopefully to stay that way for good.

I enjoyed time around the house with the kids in Florida. I was able to get some things done that have been sitting. I had quite a bit of time since I wasn't playing taxi and cook so much. Today Tim went half way to West Palm to meet his brother to pick up the kids. I had the whole day to myself and I was so proud of myself for enjoying it. Just a few short months ago I would not have wanted to spend the day by myself. I slept in, worked on laundry and organizing things in the house. I also went up Atlanta road to watch the air show right by myself and had a good time.

Tim and the kids got back around 7:30 tonight and we're trying to get them in the bed early. They stayed up late having fun with their cousins over the weekend. Extended family is a great thing. I'm very grateful
for mine. They have really taken care of me and helped us out tremendously.

I am also grateful for all of our friends who have been right by our sides during this whole ugly process. I do know that there are many of you out there who don't know me but are reading my page and praying for me. I am so thankful. Please continue to pray for no infections as my counts recover over the next couple of weeks and for continued remission for many many years to come......all the way to being a little old lady in a nursing home. I hope as a little old lady I will have a gentle quiet spirit that is pleasing to God. I'm afraid I don't see a gentle quiet spirit in myself at 43. Maybe I'll ask the Spirit to help me with that.

Thanks to you all,

Ann

Oct 15, 2008 12:50 pm

I did not have to have blood or platelets today. My white cells are very low as expected. I did get to go to the last half of my Bible Study. It was really good.

I will go back on Friday to have blood work again. I am feeling really good.

Ann

 

Oct 9, 2008 11:31 am

As much as I like the nurses and staff here they have worn me out this morning. It started at 4:00AM and just kept going. My AM nurse was VERY perky while I was still trying to sleep. I finally got up and going around 10:00. Hoda and Kathy Lee helped me get over my grumpiness.

Virginia Sharitz just left. We had a very nice visit. Angela Wiggins a friend from Tallahasse who moved here to go to seminary came by last night. I really enjoyed catching up again with her.

My body has processed out the chemo. so I will be able to leave today after my last chemo. which runs from 4:00 until 6:00. I actually am not hooked up to my pole today until 3:30. I'm very excited that I can walk around without pulling that thing while I pack up. I hope to be saying goodbye to this hospital forever.

I went to see Randy yesterday and he was feeling bad again but felt like it was due to taking his sleeping pills late the night before. I can relate to that.

Thank you for reading my carepage and for your prayers as well as all of the support that you have given me and my family.

Ann

Oct 8, 2008 11:31 am

I had a slow start this morning. I watched the debate last night so that kept me up late. The nurses came in at 1:00 to take out me chemo. line then came back at 4:00 to take blood. They returned at 6:30 to tell me that I need to get blood and then started it soon after. I have now had one unit of blood, my second chemo. and now I'm getting my second unit of blood.

When I finally got up to eat, I was nauseated and had a slight headache coming on. I got medication for that and now I'm up and going.

I have a good view this time and I love the rain. It is so relaxing to me. I think I will start working on my quilt now.

We have a prisoner getting treatment on the hall this time. We also had one once before when I was here. There is always a guard outside the door. The prisoner is not allowed out of his room. I was thinking of sending him a card without a name attached but Connie and Joanne said I should STAY AWAY FROM HIM. Jarred said I need to send a card and said wwjd. I asked the nurse about it and she said that she didn't think that I could. She said the guards are very strict and want to know everything they are doing. The guards also say "don't be so nice to him". Apparently he is very manipulative. The nurse also says that he sends for LOTS of goodies from the refrig. I guess he doesn't get goodies any time he wants in prison. The nurses actually had to cut back on what they give him because he was cleaning out the refrig.

I will visit Randy later today and meet his wife. He has AML not ALL. That is another form of Leukemia.

Hope all is well with you.

Ann

 

Oct 6, 2008 8:33 pm

You guys are great! I love your messages.

My blood work apt. was this morning at 10:30 and I just go to in my room 30 min. ago. I was put on a holding floor about 3:00. I couldn't get settled but the good thing about getting on the florr is that they can get all the paperwork done and then I'm ready for chemo. when I get to my room.

I have just set up house keeping here in my new room. I have finally taken off my wig now that I am with all the other bald people on 6E. From the very first stay in the hospital we have wiped everything down even though the room has already been cleaned. That's part of the setting up house keeping ritual. I haven't had a major infection yet so I might as well wipe it down for the last round.

The nurse just brought in my meds so I'll go take those. She also said that I will be able to start my chemo. tonight. I have to take sodium bicarbonate pills before this round to make the urine basic. This particular chemo. will make the urine acidic and crystals will form which will cause problems in my kidneys. Therefore there is always the possibility that my pH won't be basic enough but it is today so no time wasted waiting.

Thanks for everything.

Ann

Oct 3, 2008 8:35 pm

Well my white cells were not high enough to get chemo this weekend so I will try again Monday. That is really okay with me because it makes me even sadder to leave when the kids are home for the weekend.

Our visit with Dr. Khoury went well. He is on board with staying on Gleevec. When I asked him what he would do if his wife were in my shoes, he said he would do the Gleevec. Dr. Kantarjian in Texas said if it were him he would do the Gleevec also. I find that very encouraging. Please continue to pray that the Gleevec would bind up the bad enzymes made by the altered genes. We're looking for five years. Kantarjian said that so far 60% are staying in remission for five years. I am aiming to be in that 60%. I am going to work on nutrition, exercise, plenty of sleep, and less stress to help my chances of staying in remission.

Thanks for everything,

Ann

Oct 3, 2008 11:32 am

Tim and I are going to Emory at 2:30 for appointments. If there is a bed available I will stay and if all goes well I should be home Monday or Tuesday.

Thank you so much for your encouragement and prayers. They mean so much to us.

This is the last round. I forgot to mention in my last update that I will have to go back monthly for a 10 minute bag of chemo. This will be for 1 to 2 years. I will also be taking Gleevec and then will remain on Gleevec.

If you have a chance, email me or send a message. I would love to hear from you while in the hospital.

Ann

Oct 1, 2008 12:08 am

We're home!!! We had a great trip.

First I want to thank all of you who have put money into my fund. It made our trip possible. I also want to thank you for all of your prayers. I thought all day of the many prayers going up for me. The day went smoothly and we got in to see the Dr. early so we could see a bone marrow transplant doctor. We opted not to see him after talking to Kantarjian. Therefore, we had no trouble making our flight home.

We liked Dr. Kantarjian. He was very nice and helpful. He is recommending to his patients in my shoes to stay on the oral chemo. (Gleevec). He said that if I should start coming out of remission that I would have to have the transplant. But, he also said that if I make it five years without coming out of remission that he would expect me to stay in remission. Please continue to pray that I will stay in remission.

I knew way back that I had a second chromosomal abnormality besides the Philadelphia chromosome but I didn't know what it was until Friday. Funny thing I only have 45 chromosomes in my bone marrow cells instead of the normal 46. I am missing one of the #7 chromosomes. It is a condition called monosomy 7. Looking on the internet it looked like it could be bad but Dr. Kantarjian said that my monosomy 7 is associated with the Philadelphia chromosome and that it is basically a nonissue. It brings up the question whether I only got 22 chromosomes from one of my parents and did I possibly pass only 22 chromosomes to one of my children. Dr. Kantarjian assures me that this is a change in my bone marrow cells only and that I was born with all 46 and my children would have gotten 23 chromosomes from me. That was a relief.

Due to my increased heart rate and shortness of breath, we had to get a wheelchair to get around in the airports. Poor Tim and Joanne. I also had to wear a heavy mask in the airplane. I was glad to get off the plane and breath.

We did not check luggage so we had to pack very lightly and carry our bags to MD Anderson. We were able to check our bigger bags in at the desk at the hospital. As I was planning my light packing I thought about taking my travel hair dryer and then I thought "No, I'll just use the one at the hotel". What was I planning to dry???? There is only peach fuzz on my head. Joanne thought it would have really been funny if I had actually packed it and carried it around.

I don't feel tired right now and Tim said I was going to have to start settling down. I think that means I'm talking too much. I guess I'll start making my way to bed. I go in tomorrow for blood work and will probably get red cells.

Thank you all for your encouraging word, thoughts, and prayers. We love you.

Tim and Ann

Sep 29, 2008 1:31 pm

Well we are leaving for the airport in about an hour. I am excited but getting anxious about the doctor visit. As Jane said I will probably hear some good things and some bad things. I will be prepared for both and maybe slip in my first Xanax in months for this visit.

It was so great to see so many people and hear your encouraging words on Saturday. Thank you for the love and support that you continue to show to me and to my family. I see God's love through you all daily.

I need to go take care of some last minute details. Thanks for everything.

Ann

Sep 24, 2008 1:05 pm

I went to Precepts Bible Study this morning and really enjoyed it. Peggy Walker (the Precept leader) has told us about a friend of hers that would ask her to pray for her in a unique way. She would ask Peggy to "join her in the throne room of grace." Just think we will be joining together in the throne room of grace tonight between 6 and 7. I'll be there too.

Thanks,

Ann

Sep 23, 2008 12:05 pm

I went for blood work today and all was well, at least for my blood these days. I go back again on Friday and my counts should be almost normal by then.

Connie Burchfield and Susan Shay have coordinated a concert of prayer for me on Wednesday evening September 24th at Smyrna First Baptist. It will be located in the conference room (F202) from 6:00PM until 7:00 PM. They wanted to do this in preparation for my trip to MD Anderson. There will be a list of specific prayer requests. Connie said that you can drop in at any time and pray with others or by yourself. Thank you so much for this event.

I have been humbled all week as I have reflected over the last six months and all of the prayers and help that we received. You guys really rallied around us. You know Jesus reveals Himself to us through His people and boy have we seen and felt His love through all of you. I can't wait until I can show His love to others by ministering to them as you all have to us.

My last round is scheduled to start on Thursday the 2nd of October if a bed is available. I can't wait.

Love to you all,

Ann

Sep 21, 2008 8:31 pm

Hi all,

I finally got back down in my room that I am fixing up. My computer is not easily accessible now so I have to force myself to come down and check emails and update my page. I think I need to make my room more attractive to me with music and color so that I will want to come down.

I am doing well. I have so enjoyed seeing all or your smiling faces around town. You all make me feel so special.

I will go back to blood check on Tuesday and Friday of this week. I should not need platelets but I will probably need red cells at some point this week.

I will be going to MD Anderson on Monday the 29th of September with Tim and Joanne. What a blessing to have a friend like Joanne. She has been a huge resource of knowledge for me over the last six months.

Hope you all are well.

Thanks for everything.

Sep 13, 2008 3:31 pm

Ann and I ask that you keep David and Ruthie Laney in your prayers today. We met the Laneys on the 6th floor at Emory early in Ann's treatments. David, who was an attorney and nearing retirement, had not responded to treatments from his local onocologist in Columbus. Just as many of you, David and Ruthie offered a great deal of comfort and support to Ann, especially during her visits to Emory. Ruthie and Ann spoke at length on several occasions and have kept in touch by phone on several occasions. Unfortunately, David did not respond to the medications, later acquired a lung infection and on Friday passed away. We ask that you pray for Ruthie, her two children and their families. Ruthie has been keeping a CarePage for David titled, 'DavidLaney'.

As Ann and I get out our calenders this weekend to beginning planning her return to work and 'something fun' later this Fall, we are reminded that all are not so lucky.

Thank you again for your support of Ann and our family.

Tim Schmitz

Sep 12, 2008 10:03 pm

Shirley and I had a busy week. We ran errands, went to doctor visits, and went to the Wednesday morning Bible study. Yesterday I started cleaning out my sewing/office/junk room. I had a comfortable spot set up beside my recliner while I was convalescing. It really did help because there were times when I was very tired not to mention depressed. I can’t believe that I have so much energy so late in the game. I was truly expecting to be much more tired and run down near the end.

This morning I got a 10 min. bag of chemo. at Emory but of course it took a three hour visit to accomplish that. Well I did have my blood work done too. I did not need platelets or blood but my white cells are low as expected. I have become a bit lax in my precautions lately too. I am going to try to be more diligent to wear my mask and avoid any germs. It would be terrible to mess everything up here at the end due to my own lack of diligence.

I spent most of the afternoon on the couch watching Ike. I think the chemo knocked me down a bit today, but I’m going now. Can you hear it in my typing????? It’s really fast. I did take 10 steroid pills this AM and will for the next three days. Maybe that’s why I’m typing so fast. Anyway I better start settling down or I will be “sewing” and “fixing my room” and “typing” all night in my bed…….….breaath deeeeep. Relaaaax.

I do have an appointment at MD Anderson set for September 30th. We finally have been able to arrange a consultation for a reasonable fee instead of a full blown work up to the tune of in excess of $25,000 dollars. Can you believe it? The doctor will use all of our tests from Emory to make his judgements. I’m really excited. God is good.

I’m breathing deep and relaxing after I look at Ike again.

Thank you for all of your friendships, support, and prayers.

Ann

Sep 9, 2008 9:03pm

My chemo. was suppose to finish up at 6:00PM Saturday evening but was done at about 3:30. Shirley came to get me and we went to surprise the kids at the Upward field. I wore my mask in the crowd and had a great time being out.

I have been pleasantly surprised this go round. I have not had the real down that I usually do after this round. I actually folded clothes yesterday, hemmed two pair of shorts and went to Pubix for lots of fruit that I didn't get in the hospital. The hospital food is getting worse and worse. I finally figured out this round that I can order out from local restaurants that deliver. That was a good thing.

Today Shirley and I ran some errands and went to the book store. I think I may be taking a few chances but I'm avoiding the crowds. I can't wait to be free again.

Tomorrow I go for a blood check and Friday I will go for a 10 minute bag of chemo at Emory. It will be outpatient.

My mother had her hysterectomy last Thursday and the doctor said everything looked good. She came home yesterday and was up walking around the house today. We are thrilled that all is going well.

Thank you for your continued prayer and support. We are working on a trip to MD Anderson to take place at the end of the month before my next round.

Ann

Sep 3, 2008 3:03pm

This visit to the hospital is going well so far. I am loaded with steroids so that makes me feel good while I am here. They take me off of them cold turkey when I leave and that is why I am stuck to the couch for two days after this treatment.

Thank you for all of your emails and messages. They have been very helpful today.

I went to the library across the street today and read some science teacher journals. I really enjoyed it. I also have my quilt and Bible study to keep me busy. And I can't wait to hear what Sarah Palin has to say tonight. And I have my Yoga DVD and mat to start building my muscles for my return to my life. I can't wait.

My doctor came by today and he emailed the doctor at MD Anderson so maybe this will now get moving.

Your prayers and encouragement mean the world to me. Thank you.

Ann

Sep 2, 2008 2:07pm

I have a bed for my 7th treatment. Only one more after this one. I'm feeling good and brought lots of "stuff" to keep me entertained. Please send me messages or emails to annschmitz@charter.net. I could use it to pass the time.

They put me on the 7th floor this time which is the transplant floor. I don't like that but there were no beds available on the 6th and they are "sister" floors. The nurses go from floor to floor.

Please pray for a successful chemo and no infections.

Thank you so much.

Ann

Aug 27, 2008 1:20pm

I have had a wonderful morning. I went to my old Precept Bible study class at church. I received a grand reception. It was so nice. I sat in a corner seat and Peggy made sure no one hugged me. I love Precepts.

Thank you to all of you who have donated to my fund. Tim and I have been humbled by your generosity. As of now, I have not figured out a way to know who has donated. It just shows up as a deposit into the account. I would really like to know if you donated. If you would like to, please send me email to at annschmitz@charter.net.

I picked Shirley up at the hospital yesterday. All of her tests came out great. We are so happy.

I am feeling great but my white cells are still down for now.

Thank you for all of your support.

Ann

Aug 25, 2008 9:32pm

I went in for blood work this morning. I didn't need any blood but my counts are still low. The doctor did give me a scare when he said he heard something in my chest. I had to go get a stat Xray and "come right back". Thankfully my chest was clear. I assume they would have put me in the hospital for IV antibiotics if I had had pneumonia. They don't expect my counts to be up enough for the next round on Friday. This is expected. They had said that as I go through the treatments my counts would get lower and stay low longer.

Shirley has been getting good reports. The cardiologist said that the amount of fluid on her heart is normal and that it can get inflamed which caused the pain. She should come home tomorrow.

My mothers surgery is not until next Thursday. I'm having a hard time keeping up with dates.

Thank you for your prayers and messages.

Ann

Aug 24, 2008 9:27pm

I have had a good weekend. I did not have to have platelets or red cells on Friday. I go back tomorrow morning to check my blood counts again. I am scheduled to go back to Emory on Friday for my next round. The MD Anderson trip has not yet come through so I'm guessing it will now have to be after my next round.

Please pray for my mother and mother-in-law. Shirley (Tim's mom) is at Cobb Hospital this weekend from chest pains. Her heart seems fine but she has some fluid in the pericardium around the heart. They say that it could be caused by a virus, bacteria, or lupus. She will be seeing a cardiologist tomorrow. My mother (Glenda Lowe) will be having a hysterectomy on Thursday in Opelika Alabama. Please pray that both will be well soon.

Thanks,

Ann

Aug 20, 2008 9:18pm

I started getting more bruises on my legs last night and knew that I would probably need platelets again today. My platelet count had dropped down low again and I did need platelets but they could not get them until the afternoon and the doctor again did not want me out driving or riding. He said any trauma could cause bleeding that we can't stop quickly enough. Consequently Shirley and I spent all day at Cobb Hospital waiting and getting platelets. We had a 9:30 apt. this AM and got home at 5:00 this afternoon. Of course we ate and visited the gift shop. Then we just sat out in the shade at a picnic table and talked. Shirley is always very sweet to stay with me.

I'm glad that I have doctors to take care of this stuff for me. The doctors and nurses are very nice.

I'm feeling good and enjoying working around my house on all the piles that have accumulated since this all started in late March.

Only two more rounds to go. Please continue to pray that I will have no infections and that the Gleevec will keep the leukemia at bay. I actually have no white cells to fight bacteria at the moment but am on antibiotics to try to prevent infections.

Thanks,

Ann

Aug 19, 2008 2:33pm

I went to the doc. for blood work yesterday. I needed platelets but I wasn't as low as when I had to go to the hospital. I was able to come home at 2:30. I still feel good. Yesterday was Marie and Jonathan's first day at Covenant. They enjoyed it. Now that the kids are all in school I will be at home by myself some as Tim goes to appointments. I have plenty of work that needs to be done around here but I did meet Connie and Cindy for lunch today. It was nice getting out. I will go back for more blood work tomorrow and Friday to try to catch my platelets before they go too low this time.

Love to all,

Ann

Aug 17, 2008 5:44pm

I was so glad I was able to sneak in church late and leave early. I would have loved to have seen everyone and talked but I still have to stay away from crowds since my white cells are low. It was great being back and thanks to my friends for reserving a "safe" seat in the corner of the balcony for me. Connie even sprayed the area with Lysol. Funny huh? I go in tomorrow for blood work. I suspect that my platelets will be very low based on the last time I had this round. I will probably need platelets and possibly have to stay if my counts don't come right back up. I do feel good though. I have had a very busy weekend and loved it.

Thanks for everything,

Ann

Aug 13, 2008 6:39pm

It made me very sad to drop Jarred off at school this morning and not go up to my room. I have been waiting three years to have Jarred in the Upper School with me. I came home and got busy to get my mind off of it. I got Jonathan and Marie's school clothes out today. My sister helped buy them earlier in the summer. This afternoon we went to Dick's and got the last pair of school shoes for Jonathan. Tomorrow we will go through school supplies and label everything. I got home yesterday around noon and had a major migraine last night. I finally kicked it after several drugs. I have had a little headache today but at least it is not a spinal headache. That's great!

Thanks for your continued thoughts and prayers.

Ann

Aug 11, 2008 5:56pm

Hi all,

I have had a great time watching the Olympics and sewing the last two days. The nurses and doctors have not said anything about my needles and scissors. I actually stayed out of the bed all day yesterday and the day before.

Today has been busy. I started at 4:30 AM with blood and tests. Then I received chemo. for two hours. After that I had to get premeds of Tylenol and Benadryl to receive more red cells. I had to take a nap after the Benadryl. I have also received potassium, caffeine for the potential headache, and other drugs through my port. I have now been unhooked from my pole to take a shower and will be hooked back up at 8:00 for my last chemo. which will go until 10:00. Consequently I will stay the night and go home tomorrow morning.

I am beginning to get excited about going back to work. The light is appearing at the end of the tunnel. I love starting a new school year and wish I could be there this week. I know Judi will do a fabulous job with the students and I hope she will make the room “hers”.

Thank you for your continued support and please pray for this recovery and two more rounds. Also pray that my oral chemo. (Gleevec) will hold off my disease for years and years to come. I’m looking for quality of life which I believe Gleevec will give me over the transplant.

I’m looking forward to seeing you all in two to three months and being actively involved.

Much love,

Ann

Aug 9, 2008 12:16pm

I got all settled in last night around 6:30. I had to get red cells so my chemo. didn't get started until about 4:00 AM. This means they may not be able to get it all in by Monday so I may be here until Tuesday. I have been watching the Olympics today and sewing. I'm a little bored but trying to stay busy.

Ann

Aug 8, 2008 3:35pm

I have a bed! Shirley and I are leaving soon.
My sister and my niece Ashley came over and picked up the kids to go to Alabama and spend the weekend. They will have a blast.

I'm looking forward to watching the Olympics and sewing. I hope it will be as enjoyable as I think.

Thanks for your prayers.

Ann

Aug 5, 2008 8:18pm

My counts were acceptable today but I still won't go in until Friday and that is if they have a bed. The doctor wasn't too concerned about the kids being sick since I am now in the normal range for white cells. Jarred and Jonathan seem to be well now and Marie just seems to be tired so it was a short illness. I had a lot more energy today and worked on my junk room. It has really piled up in the last four months. Thanks for your prayers and messages. Ann

Aug 4, 2008 8:20pm

The kids got home last night and brought a Florida germ with them. They all had sore throats and Jarred had a fever last night. Marie had one today. I’m keeping my distance. Please pray that I won’t catch their illness. The trip to Florida was great for the kids. They went to the beach three times and went to Universal. I’m going for blood work tomorrow. I would have thought my white cells would be up by then but the doctors feel it will take this week and hopefully I can go back in for the next round on Friday. Please pray that I will stay in remission. Thanks, Ann

 

July 31, 2008 at 08:38 PM EDT

I adorned my head with horse hair this morning and went to the doctor for blood work. My platelets are normal so no threat of bleeding to death. My red cells are a very low normal so no tranfusion but it makes me tired and makes my heart race when I walk far or fast. My white cells were still very low so I won't go in the hospital tomorrow. The doctors think it will take another week for my white cells to recover so I will probably go in next Friday. I've lost another week now but I'm blessed that I have recovered on schedule after each round so far. I think there is a cumulative effect from the chemo. I only have three more rounds. I'm excited about that.

Please continue to pray for no infections. Thanks.

Ann

July 30, 2008 at 10:16 AM EDT

My counts were okay on Monday but my white cells are still low. I go back for a cell check on Thursday and if my counts are high enough I will go in on Friday for my sixth round. Only two more after that. I am trying to get an appointment lined up for MD Anderson after my counts recover from this sixth round.

Hope you all are well.

Ann

July 27, 2008 at 09:37 PM EDT

I went to the Family Christian Bookstore this afternoon. Something felt wrong about going there on a Sunday but they were open so I went. I should not have gone due to low blood counts but I used a lot of sanitizer and side stepped anyone by going down vacant aisles. I had a great time browsing for about an hour.

Shirley and I go for blood work tomorrow. I wonder if I will need red cells because I am very very tired. This could just be the cumulative effects of the chemo. I’ll ask tomorrow.

Please keep praying for healing.

Ann

July 25, 2008 at 08:44 PM EDT

Hi all,

I went for blood work today and did not need platelets or red cells. That’s great. I have no neutrophils though. They are the white cells that fight bacteria. I am on antibiotics, an antiviral and an antifungal. I go on those after every round so maybe they will keep all the germs away. The nurse thought that my port site was healing although she had not seen it before and will look at it again on Monday.

Tomorrow Tim and a neighbor will be digging up the front yard to replace the sewer and water lines. No water tomorrow for us but Shirley is just down the street so we can go see her when we need water.

The kids will be going to spend next week with my sister and her family in Jacksonville. They will have a blast. I really wish I could go. But I will stay here and take care of myself. I think I will go in for the next round next Friday. If not it will be early the next week.

I really enjoyed going to Love Street last weekend. Thank you to all of you who shopped at Love Street or signed up for Step-It-Up. We really appreciate your support.

I love your messages. Thanks for taking the time to encourage me.

Ann

July 23, 2008 at 10:26 AM EDT

So sorry to be confusing. The chemo that I got on Monday was the last bag of round five. I still have three more rounds. I am doing well though. God is good.

I am a little concerned about my port site. It is still red and tender. I started antibiotics for it yesterday. Please pray for healing of that potential infection. I go back for bloodwork on Friday.

We are still working on getting kids ready for school...shoes, supplies, clothes, etc... We are getting close.

I'm feeling well and sleeping much better.

Thanks for everything.

Ann

 

July 21, 2008 at 06:54 PM EDT

I went to Emory today for a 15 min. bag of chemo. That ends my last round. My platelets were acceptable and I didn't need red cells. Of course my white cells are low. That's to be expected. My port site was more red than normal so I am starting an additional antibiotic. Four more pills per day for 10 days but better safe than sorry.

I'm tired tonight but doing well. Emory is always an all day affair.

Thanks for your thoughts, prayers, and messages.

Ann

July 18, 2008 at 08:16 PM EDT

I went to the doctor for blood work this AM and got good results.

I am excited about my "weekend". I will go tomorrow and wear a mask most of the time. Thank you so much for supporting us this way. What an honor to have an "Ann Schmitz Weekend".

I contacted MD Anderson today and may be going to see them the first week in August if we can get all the paperwork in order.

I have felt much better today and less tired.

Thank you for your prayers as we battle this sickness.

Ann

July 16, 2008 at 08:13 PM EDT

I got home from my last round at the hospital last night about 8:00. It went well this time. I was tired today. On the last day of this round I got a 24 hour chemo drip so I assume that is why I am tired. Tomorrow should be better.

As of right now I have decided to stay on the medications to try to hold off the leukemia. This means I will not have a transplant right away. However, my doctors will be monitoring my cancer very closely and at the first sign of coming out of remission, we will proceed with a transplant. I will continue my next three rounds of chemo and my doctor has recommended that I go to MD Anderson in Houston for a second opinion. So I am in the process of looking into that.

Thanks for your prayers. These changes always affect me emotionally. Please pray for peace of mind for me and a constant knowledge that God is in control.

Much love,

July 11, 2008 at 09:12 PM EDT

I am finally getting settled in my room. I stayed in a holding room for a couple of hours until a room opened up on the sixth floor.

My results were great. Thank you God! and thanks for your prayers. I am in a good remission. Now I have a very difficult and important decision to make about doing a transplant now or not. I learned of some risks that I didn't know about before regarding the transplant. So it may be worth it to try to hold the cancer at bay with med's and if it comes back then do a transplant. Please pray for peace in making this decision. Ask for God's guidance in making my decision.

Also pray for a good treatment this round. This is the tougher of the two. I will also be getting my last two spinals Monday and Wednesday. Please pray for no headaches.

Thank you for your faithfulness to pray for me and keep up with my progress.

Ann

July 09, 2008 at 09:47 PM EDT

Another great day…. The lady from ChemoChic who had cancer and lives around the corner came for lunch today. I enjoyed our visit.

I wound up back at Target today preparing for Jarred’s trip to New Orleans. We had a good trip.

If anyone is trying to call me on my cell, it is out. It fell out of my pocket in a chair on the patio last night before the rain. Well it got wet and ruined so tomorrow after my trip to the doctor I will go to get a new phone. Hopefully it will be going again tomorrow afternoon.

My BIG event is going to be tomorrow night. Marie and I are going with Joanne and Emily Cox to a Drum Corp competition. I haven’t been to one for many many years and I love them.

I will go to Emory on Friday for an appointment and then into the hospital if a bed is available.

Thanks again for everything.

Ann

July 08, 2008 at 01:48 PM EDT

Thanks so much for all of your messages and prayers. I really enjoy reading the messages.

I just got back from a trip to Wal Mart to get school supplies (if you can believe it). I don’t know when I will be able to do it again. We had a very good time…..three kids, three carts, and three lists. Then lunch was at Subway. I really enjoyed getting out.

Yesterday’s trip to Target was for school supplies but they weren’t out yet so we went shoe shopping for school instead. We got two pair out of the way.

I am now taking kids to the dentist and then to my counselor at 4:30. This is a busy day for me.

Please continue to pray for health and safety for my by brother and his family as they go about their summer activities and vacations.

Thanks so much,

Ann July 07, 2008 at 01:54 PM EDT

I had a great doctor visit. My platelets, white cells, and red cells are very good. They were also able to clear my port. I can actually get out of the house now for a few days so I’m taking the kids to Target for some needed things.

Thanks for your prayers. God is faithful!

Ann

July 05, 2008 at 10:16 AM EDT

We had a good 4th. Tim's mom and grandmother came over for a cookout. Tim cooked up some good food and we had a good time. We drove up to Roswell Road to watch the fireworks. They were good but we would have liked to have been closer.

I discovered last night that one of my two ports would not flush. I have to flush them everyday with heparin to prevent clots. I called the doctor and he said that I could wait until my Monday apt. and the nurses would put enzymes in to dissolve the clot to open it back up. Please pray that there would be no complications with this. It sounds a bit scary.

I have appointments Monday and Thursday of this week for blood work and then I am scheduled to go in on Friday if a bed is available. That would start my 5th round.

Thanks for your prayers and support. I have been doing really well emotionally but am taking a little dip since my unexpected hospital stay last week. Please pray for peace and for my anxiety to go away.

Ann

July 03, 2008 at 09:51 PM EDT

Paul and Renee had a good day at Emory. The doctor said that he didn’t see anything that would prevent him being a donor but I guess there may be some test results that aren’t in yet. Please continue to pray that he will be able to donate.

I also spoke to a young woman today who has had a transplant. It was encouraging and she had no new scary information that I had not heard yet.

Thanks for your continued prayers.

Ann

July 03, 2008 at 10:53 AM EDT

My platelets were up today. It appears that my marrow is recovering from the last chemo. My red cells were also good. So no blood or platelets today. I am thrilled. I go back for blood work next Monday and Thursday and then go in the hospital on Friday if there is a bed.

Paul (my brother) is at Emory today to get his health checked out for possibly being a donor. Please pray that his health will be excellent.

Thanks,

Ann

July 02, 2008 at 12:16 PM EDT

Well my last three days were unexpected. I went to the Austell Drs. who help check my blood work on Monday at 1:00. I didn’t know that they won’t give blood or platelets in the office past noon. So I asked to go to Emory but my platelets were so low that they did not want me to risk riding in a car and having an accident because my blood would not clot. Consequently I had to check in to Cobb Hospital to receive two bags of platelets. That was scary for me because I would rather be at Emory where they all know exactly what to do it I develop a reaction. I guess most of it is standard but the floor that I stay on at Emory deals specifically with Leukemia and other blood disorders. The nurses at Cobb were great. They wore masks and washed diligently so as not to pass germs to me.

On Tuesday morning my platelets were still not acceptable and my red cells were too low. So I spent all day Tuesday getting two bags of red cells and a bag of platelets. That was completed about 8:00PM so I chose to stay to be sure there was no reaction. My platelets were at an acceptable level for me but not normal this AM. I was able to leave the hospital at 10:30 this morning. I thank God for no fevers or reactions to the blood products.

I have to go back to the doctor’s office tomorrow at 9:00 to be sure my platelets are holding. If they aren’t then I will receive another bag in the office.

The doctor said this is normal for platelets to do this during chemo. They just have to keep them at a reasonable level until my marrow kicks back in to make my own.

Each time I receive blood products, I could be developing antibodies to something that could be in Paul’s blood so fewer products the better. Please pray that my marrow will kick in today and start making platelets, red cells, and white blood cells and that I am not developing antibodies to Paul’s blood.

What a week so far.

Thanks for your prayers,

Ann

June 30, 2008 at 08:15 PM EDT

Thank you for reading Ann's Carepage.

Ann went in to check her counts with Doctor Sultan at Cobb-Wellstar this afternoon and needed platlettes. Due to the late appointment, they decided to admit her to Cobb Hospital tonight. They have not found the specific bag of platlettes yet however, expect to later this evening. She should come home in the morning.

Otherwise, she had a pretty good day.

She or I will update again tomorrow.

Thank you again for the prayers.

Tim

June 29, 2008 at 09:34 PM EDT

After two or three active days, I have been very tired today. I am exhausted at the moment so I will be going to bed right away.

I will be having my regular blood work on Monday and Thursday of this week. My brother Paul will be spending all day Thursday with his wife Renee at Emory. He will be having the “physical” of his life time. Please pray that all will be well with him to be a possible donor. Remember this is my “miracle” brother and he’s a “match”. Paul is so willing and ready to help. I am so blessed. God is good!!

Thank you all for everything!

Ann

June 28, 2008 at 05:22 PM EDT

I have felt good today but getting tired now. I did walk 15 minutes and did some work around the house.

I have had two or three good nights of sleep now and without the dark dark morning hours that bring me to a point of not wanting to get out of the bed. I attribute that to your many prayers for me. Thank you so much!!!!

Ann

 

June 28, 2008 at 06:33 AM EDT

Good Morning,

I have posted a couple of pictures. One picture is of Jarred, Jonathan and Marie at a Braves game that we attended this week. The other is Ann, Dr. Khoury, MD and Lori Covais, RN. Dr. Khoury and Lori are calling all the shots for Ann. Please pray for good judgement. They both are very good with Ann. They listen and go through her list of issues and address each one with sensativity and care.

Mentally, Ann is 100% better this week. We are beginning to see a glimpse of her again. She is beginning to grasp the inevitable transplant. Ann made dinner a couple of nights and is gaining strength. She is smiling again (with out being asked)...

Thank you for keeping up with her carepage. Your messages and prayers make a huge difference.

Tim

 

June 27, 2008 at 07:25 PM EDT

Today’s visit was disappointing in that we didn’t get all of the information we were looking for. However we did get results from the bone marrow biopsy and they were great. Now we will wait for the DNA results which won’t be ready for two more weeks. These results will continue to guide the doctor in making decisions about my treatment. I will go back in for my next regular round of Chemotherapy on Friday the 11th.

The trip did take all day and I had to get platelets which didn’t take too long. We waited for our doctor apt for 3.5 hours. Can you believe it?

I did sleep well again last night. Thanks for your continued support and prayers.

Ann

June 26, 2008 at 12:45 PM EDT

I finally got a much better night’s sleep. I tried a different medication combo. I have lots of med’s to play with which is kind of scary. Thanks for your prayers also as I know God is relieving some of my anxiety which has to help with sleep.

Have a good day.

June 25, 2008 at 09:36 PM EDT

I had a good day today. I feel like I may be coming out of the fog a bit.

I’m still having a very difficult time sleeping. The early hours of the morning are hard on me and getting out of the bed is overwhelming each day. My sister suggested having my devotion and Bible ready by my bed for the morning to transition. I have already set it up.

I did talk to a lady today who went through cancer a few years ago and she totally related to lying in the bed for hours even after taking medication. We could also relate on being cold and then hot day and night. I cover and uncover myself all night long. It was good to relate to someone who has done some of what I am doing. This lady leads a group that meets monthly at Piedmont. Due to my hospital stays it has not worked out to go to a meeting. After talking a long time, we found that she lives in the next neighborhood down Campbell road (Vinings Point, I think). She is planning to come see me on Monday and share all of her meeting information with me. I feel blessed to have had her call me back again.

I also wanted to mention that I have not looked at my emails in quite a while but I will start working through those tomorrow. I’m sorry if you may have been waiting for a reply.

Please keep praying for sleep and relief from anxiety. Thanks so much!!!!

Ann

June 24, 2008 at 10:34 PM EDT

For those of you who are still awake, please pray that I will sleep tonight and not lie awake thinking for hours.

Marie's doctor seemed to think that she was dealing with allergies today and not too concerned with the low grade fever.

The counselor was fine today but what could she say???? Guess what she said????? .....That's a lot." .... She did say some other things and we will meet next week. I did like her and am willing to meet with her. She did like the fact that I could see God in all of this with the miracle brother who is a match and other things that only crazy Ann would write down before going in.

As I re-read the last pargragh, I see tha my sleeping pills may be kicking in.. Sorry for the mess up there......maybe some of yuo will decipher the paragraph.


Got to go to bed before I lose control of myself .

Thanks to you all. I feel a bit more connected just keepin up my page.

Love you all.

ann

June 24, 2008 at 01:43 PM EDT

Finally an update. Marie has had a fever and sore throat for awhile now and actually spent the weekend at Shirley’s. She still had a low grade fever this AM so Shirley has her at the doctor’s office now. Please pray that Marie’s fever will be gone ASAP and that I will not catch anything from her.

Shirley also took me to my apt. for blood work this AM and I actually have more white cells than I usually do at this point so I can fight off some things. God is good. Poor Shirley though…she is having to carry us all over the place. She also has her 87 year old mother who has lots of Dr. apts. Please pray for Shirley’s physical and mental strength as she carries us. She does have some back problems that flare up at times too. She has just started some physical therapy. Please pray that it will help her back to be pain free.

I am going to see a counselor at 4:00 today at PSI at Mount Paran Church. Please pray that it goes well. I really don’t want to go.

I feel better physically today. Yesterday I was exhausted. My mental state is questionable at best. I have a lot of anxiety. Sleep is hard to come by these nights. Please pray for sleep.

Lastly, we have an apt. with the doctor on Friday to get the results from the biopsy. We need a good remission for a transplant whether it would be sooner or later.

Thank you all for your continued prayers and support. Also, I was thrilled not to have headaches after my spinals last week. Thanks for your prayers for that. The headache after the last round really took me down because the only was to get relief was to lie down so I just got weaker.

Love to you all,

Ann

June 21, 2008 at 01:26 AM EDT

Thank you for reading Ann's Carepage.

She came home today at 9:00 pm and is feeling much better than she did at the end of her last visit. This trip she had three spinals and, so far, no headache. She is sleeping a little better as well. Either on Wednesday or Friday, we will meet with her doctor to get the results of the biopsy and decide how to move forward.

This trip concludes round 4... half way there. Doctors told her she can visit her parents again on Saturday. We will wait to see how she feels in the morning.

Thanks for all the kind words, cards and prayers.

Tim

June 18, 2008 at 09:05 PM EDT

Connie and Cindy here. Ann asked us to refer everyone to Jane's message below for an update. She is thrilled not to have a headache and to feel like socializing. Thank you for your prayers, they worked.

Yes, she beat us both in Dutch Blitz as usual. She keeps saying she has chemo brain, but we aren't buying it.

Ann is doing very well tonight! She slept for 3 hours this afternoon which she hasn't had much sleep in quite a while. She was feeling refreshed and rejuvenated from that. Funny thing was people spoke to her during this time and she doesn't recall any of it. Evidently, they have found the right Rx to help her rest!

The spinal went well today. They used a smaller needle and she had the opportunity to discuss with them what happened last time and they were very helpful this time to aid her in avoiding the horrible headaches.

Tonight Cindy D. and Connie are there visiting, playing cards and walking laps with her. Thank God for friends especially the ones who know how to play cards!!! (inside joke...hahaha)

Thanks so much for your diligence in praying for Ann's strength, her spirits and her physical well-being. No doubt, today she felt the power of your prayers!!!

June 18, 2008 at 10:09 AM EDT

Thank you for your continued prayers and support. I will have to have another spinal today and Friday. Please please please pray that I would not have a headache with these. The previous headache lasted about two weeks and really got me down.

Please also pray for my emotional well being.

Thanks,

Ann

June 18, 2008 at 02:55 AM EDT

Thank you for reading Ann's Carepage.

Ann had the bone marrow biopsy yesterday. It went well and she was not as sore as the previous. There was a room available and she was expecting to start chemo at ten last night.

She met with her doctor yesterday and we have an appointment tomorrow afternoon to discuss the timing of the transplant.

Thank you for your continued prayers and cards.

Ann will update again on Wednesday or Thursday.

Take Care,
Tim

June 16, 2008 at 09:40 AM EDT

I posted an update yesterday that didn't make it so I'll try again.

I do feel better. Tim and I went to Alabama to get Jarred and Marie on Saturday. Jonathan will stay another week. Marie and Jarred have camps this week. I think the change of scenery and seeing my mom and dad and the kids helped.

I will go in tomorrow morning for a bone marrow biopsy. This is to check on remission. Please pray for the procedure to be manageble and for remission. We need a good remission even going into a transplant. The doctor has not indicated when he might want to do a transplant yet. I guess I will get that info. this trip. If there is a bed available tomorrow after my biopsy I will stay for my next round. Please pray that this round will have minimal nausea and that depression will stay at bay as well as for a good response to treatment.

Thank you so much for your continued support. I love you all!!

Ann

June 12, 2008 at 08:05 PM EDT

Jane Russell and Shirley and I went to a transplant orientation meeting today at Emory. I does make me feel a little bit better just knowing what I'm facing but it will be a long and ugly ordeal. There are people out there who just wish they had the opportunity for a transplant. I have to get to a point where I can be thankful for this opportunity. It is truly a blessing that my brother is a match. Please pray that his health will check out okay for the transplant. By the way, I don't think that I have shared yet that my brother is a walking miracle. He suffered a head injury that was expected to take his life about 11 years ago. How good is God???? We have had the blessing of my brother's spared life and now he may give me life.

Please pray for peace in my head and heart.

thanks,,

June 11, 2008 at 08:27 PM EDT

Thank you so much for all of your prayers and messages of hope today. I feel encouraged by your words.

June 11, 2008 at 01:59 PM EDT

Please pray for courage and strength for me. I feel like I have none right now.

 

June 09, 2008 at 03:02 PM EDT

I have wrestled all weekend and continue to wrestle with the fact that I believe I hear my doctor heading my towards a transplant. It is the only way for me to be cured and apparently it is a sooner or later deal. This is such a new thing that there is not much data on transplant success after coming out of remission. I am having a very difficult time with this but actually feel a bit "brighter" right now than I have. I think I have to wrap my brain around this, go in to win, and tackle it head on. God is bigger than any transplant problem.

Shirley and I took the kids to meet my parents in Newnan today. Mother's VBS is this week so they will enjoy that and time in the country. If my counts are okay on Friday, Tim and I will go get them on Friday PM or Sat. AM. I hope that happens. I could use some time away.

On our return trip on I85, Shirley and I sat at a standstill for one hour while an accident was cleared. Once it cleared traffic moved and we saw no indication of an accident.

My headache continues at times but is slowly easing off. I am very weak from spending so much time down. I have to get back to the treadmill this week. A nurse told me that they want transplant patients to walk I believe it was two miles every day. I guess I better start walking because I probably couldn't do that now.

Please continue to pray for my health and mental emotional well being. Also pray for the doctors to make informed and wise decisions regarding my treatment.

thanks,

ann