Wednesday, July 22, 2009

I've been experiencing "withdrawal" this past week now that our family reunion has ended and everyone has returned home. We had a wonderful time together, but it went by very quickly! I continue to feel well on my vegan diet and have the energy to do all the things I like to do in the summer in Colorado - hike, bike, and stay connected with family and friends. A recent ultrasound revealed that the tumors in my liver have actually gotten a little smaller, but the number of tumors in the abdominal wall are too numerous to count. It also showed that the amount of fluid build-up in my belly has decreased slightly, and that the 22cm X 3cm tumor mass in the pelvic area has not increased in size since June 6th. I am consulting with the surgeon in Denver about the possibility of removing the large tumor mass now that it seems to be stabilized. I am encouraged by the fact that my body seems to be fighting back, and all without the help of chemo! Praise The Lord!

Saturday, July 18, 2009

Ruth had a great time with her family visiting a week ago. It was so special to spend time with them, share meals, and visit and catch up on the latest happenings with her nieces and nephews and their children. We are so thankful that they made the journey to come out and see her. She continues to do well with her vegan diet, whenever she has cheated a little bit (like eating a bowl of homemade ice cream) it has re-confirmed the importance of sticking to the diet with no exceptions. She did have a ultra sound on Friday to have a better idea of tumor numbers, size and location so hopefully we will have the results on Monday. We also remain hopeful that the numbers and size have decreased due to her diet, and regimen with Dr. Alfred Bamberger.

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

This week is very special in that my family (sisters, their spouses, nieces, nephews, and some of my sister's grandchildren) are all here visiting us in Eagle, Colorado! We are enjoying perfect weather for all of the outdoor activities we have planned, and of course we are just loving all being together in such a beautiful place! What a blessing! I continue to make progress on my vegan diet because Bob and Sarah are so supportive, as are many of my friends who make special dishes and soups for me that they know I can eat. I finished cleaning out a lot of "junk" from my office at school last week which is one more thing that I can check off my "to do" list for this summer. My leisurely days of summer are quickly passing by, but each one has been so wonderful, and I am so thankful that I have had this time to relax and try to regain my strength. I am extremely grateful for your prayers, cards, phone calls, and all the special things you do to make my life so meaningful and so blessed. Thank you!
Ruth