Merry Christmas and a Wonderful End to 2010!

It's been a year since Eric was diagnosed, and it truly is amazing thinking of where we are now compared to a year ago. Though we haven't posted in a long time, we are doing great! Eric continues to get his blood checked once a month, with good results. Life is slowly getting back to normal.

You can't help but think back on this past year and smile. We've witnessed miracles and what one person can do through shear will power and determination. Eric came home in March with the help of crutches, and was able to dance with me at my brother's wedding in May. We built a fence this summer and traveled to see friends and family (yes, there was even a bachelor party in there). Thanks to the Campbells, we've been able to attend several Purdue Basketball games. Now, we're heading into the holiday season ready to celebrate and enjoy being with the people we love.

We had the opportunity last weekend to visit the nurses of the ICU. It is always nice to see their faces as we walk in. It continues to amaze me how much they care day in and day out for the sickest people. It always feels good to show them how much of a difference they make. We were also able to speak with another family that was there, and our thoughts and prayers go out to them during this time.

May everyone have a merry Christmas and a 2011 filled with joy and happiness. Thank you for all of your love and support, and the impact you have had on our family.

Love,
Melissa

Next Round of Chemo

I saw Dr. Cripe today and got lined up for my last session of chemo. This session will last for the next 18months. It will consist of 4 pills of Mercaptopurine (200mg total) daily, 13 pills of Methotrexate (32.5mg total)every Friday, and 10 pills of ATRA (500 mg total) for two weeks every three months.

The first two are new drugs to me. I'll be taking the Methotrexate on Fridays since people sometimes get sick the day afterwards. I'm going to ramp up on the ATRA over a couple of days so that, hopefully, I won't feel bad each time I take it.

First Week of Work

Sorry, forgot to post this weekend.

The first week of work went well. I did half days so I was home around lunch time. I'm excited to be back at work but the plan is to take it slow. I met with the facility doctor today and we decided to keep me on half days until at least July 15. I see my oncologist on Thursday and will hopefully start up my next round of chemo after the 4th.