Update June 25

Jay had his weekly blood work this morning. As expected his platelet counts are low. But the extra week between treatments seems to be helping the counts stay level.

They also ordered a CA 19-9. Praise the Lord, the numbers keep going down! I was concerned that the two week break between treatments would mean that the treatments would not be as effective. But it looks like he is still making huge strides.

December 2013 CA19-9 = 202,000

January 2014 CA19-9 =109,000

February 2014 CA19-9 = 25,000

March 2014 CA19-9 = 18,000

April 2014 CA19-9 = 13,000

May 2014 CA 19-9= 5,500

June 2014 CA19-9=1,964

At this point his mental strength is as much in play as his physical strength. He has completed 12 rounds of chemo in the last 6 months. That is a daunting task and I'm so proud of him for being able to take it on with such a positive attitude. Planning for family vacations helps give him something to look forward to, something to distract from the "now". We don't know where the next vacation will be but I'm sure it will be great!

Thank you all for the continues prayers.

Cuddling with the babies before bed last night.

Update June 17

Jays platelet counts were 74. Still low but he was able to move forward with treatment this week. He has a great spirit and attitude. And is already looking forward to next week and his two weeks off.

He has nausea and vomiting this time. Maybe because of the two week break  it is more of a shock to the system. He only requested 1/2 dose of the Ativan shot during treatment which means the nausea is worse but he is able to function a lot better. 

We pray daily for his strength and endurance during this marathon and ask that you do the same. 

On a good note, had a great family vacation at the beach last week. He also decided to surf at the lake on Father's Day. Photos below.

Kiddos watching daddy!

 

Daddy's little girl 

Feeling great

Jay had a great two week break. Today's blood work shows that his platelet counts went up during the break. He starts this weeks chemo today. He also had an abdominal ct last week, the finding indicate that the tumors are smaller.

His CA 19-9 tumor markers are still going down! 

December 2013 CA19-9 = 202,000

January 2014 CA19-9 =109,000

February 2014 CA19-9 = 25,000

March 2014 CA19-9 = 18,000

April 2014 CA19-9 = 13,000

May 2014 CA 19-9= 5,500

He is according to Audrey "the big strong daddy" and he proves that daily with his drive, determination and shear strength of will. We are thankful for his progress and feel blessed that he is able to continue to tolerate the treatments. 

May 20

Jays platelets are low. He will now go to two week break between treatments. No chemo this week. 

We are concerned that additional time between treatment will slow progress. Jay likes to push hard and get results. We have to trust that extra rest will be better overall. 

He is doing very well otherwise and in a good mood. He said he felt completely normal last week. 

We have beach trip this weekend and are looking forward to fun, sun and kiddo time. 

Update

In my 2nd day of chemo this week. I'll be done tommorow afternoon. Lolling forward to the weekend!

Tuesday April 29

Jays white counts are low and since he is having such a positive response to treatment the doctor said there is no need to push him too hard. He is getting another week off and we are looking forward to him being able to rest. 

Treatments to resume next week. 

Tuesday April 22

Another good weekend and great news at today's appointment. His tumor markers are continuing to go down.

December 2013 CA19-9 = 202,000

January 2014 CA19-9 =109,000

February 2014 CA19-9 = 25,000

March 2014 CA19-9 = 18,000

April 2014 CA19-9 = 13,000

His platelets counts are still low. So the doctor is giving him the platelet booster shot for three days, it's causes fatigue and nausea. All manageable. Counting our Blessing every day! Looking forward to another good weekend!