Kancho

The 2011 Hoilday Season approaches......

2011-11-13T06:01:00.000-08:00

The past couple months have been crazy with adjustments back to school and work. Kylee turned 7 on 9/14/11 and had a roller skating party with her friends. We took a trip to Pipe Stem National Park in October to see Ali's sister Tricia. Picture above includes Ali's parents, Kylee, Tricia, her friend Tom and his son Casey. It was a bit windy, but overall the scenery was nice due to the leaves changing. Kylee and I cut two pumpkins together and kylee's favorite part is scooping the "gook" out of the inside :-) I am looking forward to both Thanksgiving and Christmas as I get some time off school and get to see family. I will be getting my next PET scan in November and will update everyone as soon as I get the results!!!

God Bless,

Kancho, Ali and Kylee

Summer comes to an end :-(

2011-09-06T03:48:00.000-07:00

Our summer has been filed with days at the lake and lots of horseback riding. Kylee also began gymnastics lessons and is enjoying herself. I am finally returning to work and have been placed at Nathaniel Alexander Elementary School near IKEA in the university area. Kylee has returned to Shady Brook Elementary and will be in the 1st grade. It will be a busy year, but we are looking forward to it.

God Bless,

Ali, Kanhco and Kylee

June 2011

2011-06-28T17:00:00.000-07:00

Another Clean Pet Scan!! Good news, it has been 16 months since my Bone Marrow Transplant and I'm still Cancer free! Thank you for all the support and prayers throughout this long journey.

Well, summer is in "full-swing" and we're having a lot of fun so far. Kylee graduated from Kindergarten with honors on June 9th (we're so proud of her), and is ready for the 1st grade next fall. On June 14th, Alison and I celebrated our 14 year anniversary (where has all the time gone?). She and I have been through a lot during my sickness, but it has only made us stronger.

In the one of the pictures below, the owner of Vivian's new barn surprised us by driving a horse carriage in our neighborhood. He picked up Ali and Kylee for a ride and even let Kylee drive (sort of).

In the other pictures below, we went to Hersey, PA for Ali's cousin Jeff's wedding. Kylee's friend Zoe, whom she met in Cancun last summer, happens to live in Hersey (small world). Kylee and Zoe had a chance to spend about 4 hours together and boy they had a fantastic time!!

Also, Jeff had fun dancing with his niece (Cassidy) and two cousins (Kylee and Lily). The wedding was nice and the reception was really fun!

Lastly, that's me getting ready to go to a job interview. The doctors have released me to go back to teaching this fall! It's been 2 and 1/2 school years since I have been to work. I'm excited but a little nervous as well.

Again, thanks so much for your encouragement, thoughts and prayers, my family and I really do appreciate everyone's kindness.

Spring Fever :-)

2011-04-03T05:51:00.000-07:00

Well, long time no post.....sorry. As you can see we're all excited about Spring time! Kylee really enjoys being with our horse Vivian. Kylee is giving Vivian her first spring bath, I'm not sure who's having more fun Kylee or Vivian. Looks like Kylee is going "blonde" this spring.....nice hair!

In the pictures below you can see all of us together on Papa's B-Day. We surprised him with his very own Paddle Boat, he was really happy!! As for me, I've been taking it easy and hanging with Lexi. My health seems to be getting better and I'm looking forward to going back to work soon. Hope everyone is having a terrific Spring!!

Kancho, Alison, and Kylee

Welcome to 2011!!

2011-01-22T04:53:00.000-08:00

Happy 2011 (a little late)!

Hope everyone had fun during the holidays. I know we had a fantastic time. First of all, we were at home this year. If you remember, we had to live in Raleigh last Christmas. Being home was priceless! During Kylee's Christmas break, we spent time roller skating. Kylee had a great time skating with her best friend Chloe and her little sister Lily.

This was the first time Kylee had ever been roller skating!

We were blessed with snow in January (depends who you ask). Kylee, Kancho, Lexi and I had a fun time sleding in the snow and making snowmen. We have to enjoy the weather, because it doesn't snow much here in the south!! Kylee and Kancho had a great week bonding together when her school was closed for 5 days !

Kancho's health is holding strong and he is schedule to see his transplant oncologist in Februrary. Will send out an update in March.

God Bless,

Ali, Kancho and Kylee

MERRY CHRISTMAS !!!!!

2010-12-18T13:29:00.000-08:00

Hope this post finds you in good holiday spirits!

We are so happy to be in our own home this holiday season and find ourselves reminiscing about our holiday months in Raleigh last year. This Thanksgiving we were visited by Kancho's family and gathered at my parents house for a delicious feast :-) Kylee especially enjoyed the time playing with her cousins Shane and Pierce.
In December we received the best x-mas gift we could have asked for! Kancho's 12/13/10 PET scan and MRI came back without the presence of any cancer cell activity. Kancho is now 10 months out from his transplant with an estimated 20-26 months to go till the doctor can use the word "cured". We celebrated this news by wearing silly x-mas themed hats and taking a picture with our horse Vivian. Our new dog Lexi is settling in well, but gets into everything if we don't keep an eye on her at all times.....ugh! Kylee continues to take riding lessons and has advanced to jumping low fences. We are so proud of her. It has snowed at least twice here in Kannapolis this month and has been much colder than usual for this area. We are looking forward to X-mas day and are grateful for the quality time that the holiday season allows us to have with our family and friends. We hope this message finds you filled with gratitude and peace this holiday season.

God Bless,
Ali, Kancho and Kylee

October 2010

2010-11-14T07:04:00.001-08:00

October has been a nice segway to our 2010 holiday season. We went to Patterson Farms to pick out and decorate pumpkins. Kylee's costume choice this Halloween was the Disney princess "Belle". She is not much into the whole "trick or treat" routine, but enjoyed watching Kancho and I pass out candy to kids in the neighborhood. Kancho's cousins John and Chris came into town recently and it proved to be visit full of childhood story-telling and laughter! The guys also went to a Bobcats game and watched lots of sports together. We are looking forward to having Kancho's mother and sister come down for Thanksgiving. Kylee will get to see her cousins Shane and Pierce who enjoy trekking through the woods to find imaginary treasures. Lexi will find it fun to have more kids to chase around the yard and play fetch with.
We hope the start of this holiday season finds you and your families in good health and thanksgiving. We are grateful that Kancho's health has stabilized and await his next PET scan in January 2011.

Take care,
Ali, Kancho and Kylee

September 2010

2010-10-06T17:46:00.000-07:00

Our September has been good. Kylee celebrated her 6th birthday with family at the local fair. Only "big" girls ride roller coasters! Kylee also got to see her aunt "TT" who came down from Ohio to spend a weekend with her nieces. We also added a new addition to the Spasoff family in September.......a boxer named Lexi! She is 6 months old and is very gentle and affectionate when she is not running circles around the house for exercise. Despite Kancho's resistance to getting a dog, I think he enjoys Lexi's companionship at home when Kylee and I are gone during the day.

Kancho has been doing well these past few months, however he has had several infections since his immune system is still extremely low. He has been on at least 5 antibiotic cycles and will be finishing one very soon. He received a chest x-ray last week to verify he has not developed a lung infection called Interstitial Pneumonitis, which is caused by one of the transplant chemotherapy meds (BCNU). The x-ray did not show any inflammation or fluid on his lungs, however he cannot seem to shake the cough he has had for weeks now. The doctor plans to take a CT scan of Kancho's chest if his cough does not subside upon completion of his current antibiotic cycle.

Kancho is looking forward to a visit from his cousins later this month and to begin attending the Bobcats basketball games in the coming months. And of coarse, we are excited for Halloween to arrive :-)

Luv,

Ali, Kancho and Kylee

Summer 2010

2010-08-14T17:35:00.000-07:00

Well, long time no post! Boy, we've had a busy but fun summer. Kylee and I have been to the pool a lot, I think we're both turning into fish or mermaids if Kylee had her way. In June, our family had a chance to go to the beach, which was awesome. We swam in the pool as well as the ocean (see picture above).

In early July, we had another chance to go to the beach for our annual family reunion. It's always fun to visit with Ali's relatives who we don't get to see often. Kylee has a great time playing with her cousins as well. In late July, Kylee and her cousin Lily spent a week at Dee Dee and PaPa's house on the lake (see picture above).

As for August, I guess we're winding down the summer. Last week Kylee was in Horse camp. She had a terrific time, being at the barn all week riding horses. Kylee won the best 2 point position award, which is a pose to improve a rider's balance. She's such a good rider! Kylee is so excited to start Kindergarden, she couldn't wait to dress up and try on her new uniform for school (see picture above). Both Ali and I are excited for her as well.

Last but certaintly not least, I have had 2 negative Pet Scans during the summer. I have been in remission since June 3rd and I'm feeling pretty good. My next scan is not until January 2011 and my next visit to Chapel Hill isn't until Febuary 2011. Long story short, that means I'm doing better! Hopefully, I will continue to get stronger throughout this year and into the next. I will continue to post, so you can follow my progress. I want to thank everyone for their thoughts, concerns and prayers through this difficult time in my life. I know I couldn't have made it this far without you!

Sincerely,

Kancho

National Cancer Survivors Day

2010-06-06T07:12:00.000-07:00

Today we attended the 9th annual NEMC National Cancer Survivors Day festivities. Look at the difference in Kancho from 6/09 to 6/10! These photo's were taken at the annual event both years. We are so grateful for his progress in the past year :-)

Kancho's PET scan on 5/18/10 and follow-up doctor's appointment went well. We traveled to UNC Hospital on 6/3/10 to meet with Kancho's transplant oncologist to confirm the PET scan reading and discuss the treatment process over the next year. Dr. Serody confirmed that the PET scan shows Kancho is in remission! YEY! He will get another PET scan in July and then he will go to 6 month scans thereafter. Dr. Serody states Kancho should be "out of the woods" at the end of year 2 (March 2012) as the percentage of relapse after 2 years is rare for his type of cancer. In the meantime, Kancho's counts remain low so the doctor wants to perform a bone marrow biopsy on 6/8/10 to make sure the transplanted cells are not damaged or deformed (could result in prolonged low counts). Given a patients compromised immunity following stem cell transplant, Kancho's doctor states he will not be able to return to teaching until this time next year. The risk for infection is too high given his low counts in addition to the fact that all his childhood vaccines were erased with the transplant. We celebrated Kylee's graduation from preschool on 6/4/10 and we are excited about her starting kindergarten this August.

We look forward to a fun summer full of time with family and friends. We hope you have the same :-)

Thanks again for the continued support and prayers,

Ali, Kancho and Kylee

Chugging along with recovery :-)

2010-05-13T09:34:00.000-07:00

Kancho is two months post transplant now and has been resting to allow his body to recover. He continues to go to the local clinic weekly for blood count checks and growth hormone shots to stimulate white blood cell development. His counts remain low, but he is being monitored regularly to provide early detection of infections, etc. We traveled to see Kancho's mom and sister in Virginia last weekend where Kancho's sister threw a surprise BBQ on 5/8/10 to celebrate his recovery process. Relatives and childhood friends attended and were able to lay eyes on Kancho for the first time since diagnosis in Jan 09. Kancho and his sister Fran were also able to meet up with their half brother Frank which they are re-establishing a relationship with. On mother's day we went out with the family where Grandma beamed with delight showing off her grand kids!

Kancho has his next PET scan on 5/18/10 followed by an appointment with his local oncologist on 5/19/10 to translate the results. We will still be headed to UNC hospitals on 6/3/10 to meet with his bone marrow transplant oncologist to review the scan, discuss prognosis, and schedule the next PET scan cycle. We hope this post finds you healthy and eager for the summer to begin. Thanks again for your continued support and prayers as we will not be freed from this process for quite some time. I will post again in June following the PET scan and UNC hospital appointment.

God Bless,

Ali, Kancho and Kylee

Been home a month now :-)

2010-04-12T17:56:00.001-07:00

We have been home a month now and are settling back into our routines. Kancho has been going to the local cancer clinic several times a week for blood count checks, Kylee has returned to school and I to work. Connecting with friends who we have not seen since before heading to Raleigh has been nice. We were recently able to go to Charleston over Easter to visit family. We stayed with my sister Robyn so Kylee was able to sleep and play with her cousin Lily for several days. Kancho had his first PET scan and doctors appointment at UNC Hospitals following the transplant on 4/8/10. He enjoys seeing the UNC staff, especially our nurse case manager Debbie. We continue to learn from this journey, that we should not place too much weight on each and every appointment, scan or test. I think we inevitably set ourselves and those around us up for disappointment. We had really hoped to hear some "pivotal" news from this PET scan, and in reality it was simply meant to affirm the last course of Kancho's treatment (transplant) was productive. Don't get us wrong, we were very excited to hear the tumor has shrunk, and that the cell activity has decreased! I guess we are still adjusting to the fact that Kancho is not out of the woods for several years with this type of cancer. We keep hearing the words, "you should be cautiously optimistic" based on how Kancho has responded to the past year of treatments. We have to learn how to pace ourselves like running a marathon or we get out of breath easily. Our attitudes remain positive and we look forward to time we have set aside to spend with family and friends this summer. Kancho continues to rest and gain strength with each week that passes. We are not certain when he will be able to return to work, but he is hopeful it will be at the start of next school year. We return to UNC Hospitals for another PET scan and doctor's appointment 6/3/10, where we should gain additional information about how the process will look for the remainder of 2010.

Thanks again to everyone who follows our journey and sends us encouragement and prayers.

Luv

Ali, Kancho and Kylee

Finally Heading Home :-)

2010-03-10T16:38:00.000-08:00

Kancho has truly earned this t-shirt!

The two week recovery period has gone as well as can be expected, and Kancho has faced all the discomforts like a true champ! We are 99.9% sure we will be heading home tomorrow after Kancho gets his catheter removed. This is one of the things he has been looking most forward to. The catheter has been such a pain to have coming out of his chest where it is hard to disguise even with heavy clothing.
We have met so many wonderful people here and will not forget the positive aspects of this journey for sure! We know we are not fully out of the woods yet, but are soaking up the significant steps toward full remission and cure. I will update the blog again when Kancho's PET scan results are read after Easter.

God Bless,
Ali, Kancho and Kylee

Calling Chapel Hill home for now :-)

2010-03-02T17:05:00.000-08:00

Kancho was discharged this past Sunday as anticipated! Kylee and Kancho enjoyed a long embrace as they have not seen one another in 25 days. We moved into an apartment in Chapel Hill so we can be close by the hospital for check-ups. Kancho had his first check-up today and all looks "as expected". Kancho has lost 25 lbs in the past 24 days so he is trying to regain his appetite and strength over the next two weeks. We are excited to be at the end of the transplant process and are looking forward to getting back to Kannapolis very soon!

Thanks for all the continued thoughts and prayers for Kancho's successful recovery.

Luv,
Ali, Kancho and Kylee

Discharge Approaching :-)

2010-02-25T08:06:00.000-08:00

After a couple stressful weeks post transplant, Kancho is regaining strength! He is taking daily walks around the unit and laughed at the magician that came by patient rooms yesterday. His blood counts are recovering which is confirmation that Engraphment has occurred. This means we have achieved one of the two markers that indicate the transplant was a success. The second will not come until his post-transplant PET scan in May, which we are confident will show remission. The doctors advise us not to throw any BIG parties until Kancho has clear PET scans for the next 2 years as indication of his CURE. Given the nature of his type of cancer, Kancho will need to get quarterly PET scans to watch for relapse indicators.

Kylee and I will be moving from Raleigh into an apartment close to the hospital this weekend in anticipation of Kancho's discharge (could be as early as this Sunday)! He will be required to attend daily clinic appointments here following discharge to make sure his body is strong enough to return home. Once we return home, he will be followed by our NEMC oncologist.

God Bless,

Ali, Kancho and Kylee

Transplant Complete :-)

2010-02-12T12:26:00.001-08:00

Kancho did very well during his two transplant sessions on 2/11 & 2/12. We now wait for the transplanted stem cells to be recognized by Kancho's body resulting in Engraphment. This is one of two things that must take place for the transplant to be a success. It has been especially difficult for Kancho not having physical contact with Kylee, but they have been able to communicate daily via Skype. The next 12 days will be the most trying for Kancho with the likelihood of infection resulting in discomfort. I know he will pull through like a champ!
I am so very proud of him :-)

God Bless,
Ali, Kancho and Kylee

Admitted for Stem Cell Transplant !!!!!

2010-02-07T16:17:00.001-08:00

We have enjoyed our time with Kancho's mom, sister and brother-in-law during our visit home.

Kylee's class threw a going away party for Kancho and Kylee before we left town abruptly on 2/4/10. We received the call that a bed had become available on the transplant unit and Kancho was next up on the wait list to be admitted. He is settled in now (room 4837), but is labeled "isolation protective" as he receives the chemo leading up to his transplant on 2/11/10. I am posting tonight as we watch the Super Bowl together in his room. We have been trying to set up Skye so Kylee and Kancho can see and talk to each other while he is hospitalized.

I will update again as I am able over the next couple weeks. Keep the positive thoughts and prayers coming!

Luv,

Ali, Kancho and Kylee

Short visit home :-)

2010-01-30T14:11:00.000-08:00

Kancho was cleared by his UNC doctor to come home for a week as we await confirmation of his admission date. Being home is surreal! We have not slept in our own beds since November 09. Kylee and I missed our horse Vivian terribly, and have enjoyed the time with her. Kylee's classmates gathered around as she presented a scrapbook she did to show her class about living in Raleigh the past few months. SNOW SNOW SNOW!!!! Kancho is elated with the recent snowfall, using all his available energy sledding in the yard. We will likely return to Raleigh next week to prepare for Kancho's admission for the stem cell transplant procedure. He will remain hospitalized for 30 days, much of which will be in isolation to avoid possible exposure to infection.

Thanks to all that continue to pray for Kancho's successful treatment completion and for our family.

Love,
Ali, Kancho and Kylee

Finally Collecting..........................

2010-01-17T06:45:00.001-08:00

After several weeks of waiting to see if Kancho's platelet count could rise to 75, the doctor decided to proceed with the Mozobil injection on 1/12/10 with his platelets at 50. Kancho was administered the Mozobil three nights in a row and collected for 4 hrs the following mornings. We were able to balance the crazy twice a day (8am and 9pm) hospital appointments along with Kylee's horse camp schedule with the help of my sister Robyn who came in town. By Friday, Kancho had collected 3 million stem cells, and the doctor wanted to stop collection efforts since Kancho was collecting less each additional day (means that the Mozobil had done all it can do to prompt stem cell release from the marrow). The Apheresis machines are very complex and quirky so the staff has assigned them nick names over the years. Kancho was hooked up to "Lucy" all three days he collected. The doctors desire collection of 3-5 million to move forward with the transplant, so we hope to hear this week about possible admission dates. Kylee continues to attend a girls horse camp where she is gaining confidence in riding and is able to get some peer socialization too. Kylee and I were able to go to a Team Roping Competition at the Raleigh Fairgrounds this past Sunday. She enjoyed watching the cattle release from the chute before being roped by the team of riders!

Luv,

Ali, Kancho and Kylee

Hoping for a healthy 2010!

2010-01-01T07:45:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year to all! We remain in Raleigh awaiting the green light to begin Kancho's stem cell transplant. So for the "usual" process has not worked with Kancho and has challenged our patience as we are over a month delayed at this point. On the flip side, were able to be together with my parents and older sister for Christmas and Kancho's D-day. Kylee, Kancho and I spent new year's eve acting silly by making random items with colored pipe cleaners. Kylee enjoyed taking pictures of Mommy and BaBa looking funny and insisted we post them for all to laugh at :-)
We miss our home a great deal and appreciate the visits of family and friends to Raleigh to see us. Keep the prayers coming into 2010!!!!!!!!!!!!

Love,
Ali, Kancho and Kylee

Anticipating Christmas with family!

2009-12-21T05:31:00.000-08:00

After an appointment with Dr. Serody on the 17th, it looks like "plan B" needs to be delayed:-( The Mozobil can only be administered if Kancho's counts are "in desired range" or the medication will not work. We will be visiting the BMT clinic weekly so they can check his counts and estimate when we can move forward with Mozobil. Kancho's sister Fran visited this past week and was able to meet the staff treating Kancho as well as see the new Cancer Hospital facility. Fran and Kylee walked the neighborhood looking for pretty x-mas light displays. On Saturday we went to the Nutcracker ballet downtown with my close friend Nicole who lives here in Raleigh. We are anticipating my parents and sisters arrival the 23rd for Christmas together.

God Bless,

Ali, Kancho and Kylee

Time to re-group!

2009-12-15T06:34:00.001-08:00

The initial autologous stem cell collection attempt (11-29-09 thru 12-11-09) was unsuccessful for Kancho. The doctors are moving onto "plan B" which includes the addition of Mozobil. This medication is suppose to prompt a quick release of stem cells from the patients bone marrow within the 12 hr period following the injection. Kancho will be injected with the Mozobil at 9pm on 12/27/09 and they will try to collect his stem cells in the 1-2 days that follow (the Mozobil can only be given for 4 days max). If successful, Kancho will go inpatient for the actual transplant procedure on or before 1/5/10, and remain in the hospital for 30 days. Once discharged, we have to remain in Chapel Hill for 3-6 weeks until Kancho's blood counts "recover" and they are comfortable releasing him from their care. Our estimated return to Kannapolis will now be mid to late February 2010. The positive side to this setback is that we now get to spend Christmas Day (also Kancho's birthday) together YEY!!!!! Kancho's sister Fran is arriving today from VA to spend some time with us before the holiday. Photo is of Kancho and Kylee at a Raleigh library looking at books about Horses :-)

Thanks for all the continued prayers and positive thoughts,

Ali, Kancho and Kylee

Safely to Raleigh!

2009-12-04T16:29:00.001-08:00

We successfully moved and unloaded two months worth of "stuff" to Raleigh on 11/29/09. We are settled in and getting to know our way around a bit outside the usual route to and from UNC hospital. We have gone daily for tests to see when Kancho will be ready for the stem cell collection step. The staff are nice and keep reminding us to be patient with the process. It's funny how the clinic has these HUGE remote controls.......they must think all patients are senile huh? Kancho is staying active by playing the Wii daily and we found out that the new bone marrow hospital rooms have Wii in them, so he is happy to get to play when he is hospitalized. The final photo is of Kancho and Kylee decorating our tree in the Raleigh house. We are trying to make it feel as "close to home" as possible. My parents have joined us to assist with Kylee and we really appreciate the sacrifice they are making for our family.

Love.

Ali, Kancho and Kylee

Headed to Chapel Hill

2009-11-15T12:37:00.000-08:00

We finally have some firm information to pass along to everyone! Kancho will begin an autologous stem cell transplant on 11/18/09 and should complete the process by mid January 2010. We will be living in the Raleigh area during this time thanks to the support of friends and family. We are so proud of Kylee as she entered a horse show on 11/7/09 and won two blue ribbons. We continue to spend quality time as a family when Kancho is feeling up to it. We look forward to posting good news in the months to come.

Luv,

Ali, Kancho and Kylee

Looking forward to the holiday season!

2009-10-21T16:29:00.000-07:00

We have had fun this October with a pumpkin patch trip and a visit from Kancho's mom and sister (Elsa and Fran). Our appointment at Chapel Hill was postponed until 11/5/09, so we will post more about Kancho's next treatment options following that date. Happy Halloween to all :-)

Luv,
Ali, Kancho and Kylee

Hyper CVAD treatment cycles come to an end!

2009-10-11T10:14:00.000-07:00

Kancho had an uneventful hospitalization for the last of 8 treatments he has been undergoing since January 09. In October we will hear recommendations on what Kancho's treatment options are going forward from his doctors. Kancho has his PET scan on 20th followed by an appointment with his local oncologist (Dr. Williams) on the 21st. Kancho's bone marrow will also be rechecked for cancer cell activity. Kancho's sister and mom will be coming in town to join us for these appointments and procedures. The following week Kancho and I will go to UNC Chapel Hill for a consultation with Dr. Serody (stem cell transplant oncologist).

Kancho has enjoyed helping Kylee with her nightly reading homework. We are gearing up for Halloween time, one of Kancho's favorite times of the year. Kancho is excited to be going with his buddy Kitka to the Panthers vs Redskins game today in Charlotte.

We are so grateful for the continued support of family and friends :-)

God Bless,

Ali, Kancho and Kylee

Finally back in for treatment!

2009-09-24T07:44:00.000-07:00

Well, we are finally back in the hospital for the last treatment in the hyper CVAD regimen. We have been out of the hospital for over 7 weeks now while Kancho was trying to get his white blood cell count back up. We spent a lot of quality family time together and that was nice. Kancho was able to play outside and swim with Kylee more than usual. We got out of the rhythm of treatments so it is hard to adjust back into the swing up here on the oncology unit. Kancho is in room #3454 and will be here for at least 5 days (hint hint). Kylee turned 5 on 9/14/09 and she really enjoyed her party at Plaster Creations in Kannapolis. Please keep the thoughts and prayers coming.

Love,

Alison

Change of plans :-)

2009-09-03T16:35:00.000-07:00

Well......................Kancho was not admitted as planned Monday of this week. His white blood cell counts remain too low for chemo to be administered. We will hang tight until 9/15/09 when his rescheduled admission will occur for cycle 4 part b. In the meantime we will enjoy our family time together and Kylee's 5th b-day on 9/14/09!

Thanks,
Ali, Kancho and Kylee

Long time no post :-)

2009-08-25T17:47:00.000-07:00

Well.........we have done a poor job of updating folks via blog in August huh? Kancho got out of the hospital around 8/8/09, and has been savoring the last few weeks of summer! He has gone to my parent's to fish a couple times and we hit the NC coast last weekend. Kancho finds it very therapeutic to watch and hear the ocean waves. Kylee and he were great travel partners in the back seat where they used one another as a pillow. Kancho will be admitted next Monday 31st for his final chemo treatment under the prescribed hyper CVAD regimen. He will take a PET scan upon discharge so the doctors can determine the next course of action. Kancho is relieved to be completing this 8-month regimen, but is apprehensive about what is to come next. I have been in touch with our UNC oncology folks regularly to coordinate our next trip there to talk to Dr. Serody. Thanks for all the continued prayers and kind gestures.

Love,

Ali, Kancho and Kylee

Back in hospital to start cycle 4

2009-08-06T15:02:00.000-07:00

Hello all! It's Ali posting for Kancho today. We had a memorable trip to San Francisco last week where Kancho was able to attend two Giant games!!! We returned home Sunday and received a visit from Kancho's close friend and Seminole fan, Dr. Sgro who lives in Georgia. Kancho was readmitted to the hospital Monday for cycle 4 part A :-( He should be released tomorrow if we are lucky! His spirits remain good and he hopes these next two tx's produce the outcomes we need before entering stem cell transplant (estimated for October). The doctor ordered a CT scan today to rule out additional growths since Kancho has had an increase in abdominal pain this week.

Thanks for your continued thoughts and prayers,

Alison, Kancho and Kylee

2009-07-26T16:24:00.000-07:00

Well, not much excitement since last post. I have been in and out of the clinic for blood count checks and they began coming up as of 7-20. That being said, I didn't have to be in the clinic all last week!! I'll be back in the clinic for a blood check tomorrow to see if things are still progressing as planned for my next treatment.

As you can see by the pictures, I have had plenty of time to spend with Kylee!! Kylee and Alison talked me into riding the horse they lease. Riding Vivian was ok, but I'm a city guy at heart.......not many horses in the city :-) The next picture is in front of the Independence High School basketball office. I haven't been back to my place of work since diagnosis in January. It felt weird, but I was able to retrieve some of my personal items from the office.

I go back into the hospital on 8-3-09 for treatment cycle 4 part A. I'm hanging in there b/c of all the love and support I get from everybody.................thanks!!! Take care until next time.

Kancho

7/1/09-7/15/09

2009-07-14T17:57:00.001-07:00

It's Alison! Well it has been a couple weeks since last post and a lot has happened. We were able to join my family for an annual July reunion for a couple days in Charleston, SC last week. Kylee enjoyed the time with her cousins. This week Kancho's sister Fran and mother Elsa are visiting. Kylee and Fran got their nails painted Monday! Kancho has been to the clinic daily and his blood and platelet counts have gradually improved , however his white blood cell counts remain low. We have an appointment with the oncologist tomorrow to see what the next treatment step will be before stem cell transplant in September.

Thanks for all the continued support and prayers.

Go Redskin Fans!!!

Luv

Ali

Slow but steady improvements

2009-06-30T17:43:00.000-07:00

Hi! It's Alison posting for Kancho again this week. Can't believe it is already July! We forgot to post a photo from the Survivor's Hawaiian Celebration in June at CMC-Northeast so I included it this time. It was inspiring to be surrounded by so many success stories and to spend time with Kancho's health care providers and hospital volunteers in a casual setting. Kancho has shown slow improvements this week and is eager to return home in time for the holiday. His mouth and throat sores have diminished with the help of increased nutrition intake and antibiotics through his IV. Unfortunately his white blood cell count is at zero so he is not able to heal and fight off infection internally as you and I would. He has to wear a mask so he can visit with guests and leave his room to take walks with Kylee without the risk of catching infections. He has also been getting daily blood and platelet transfusions to assist his system with the rebuilding process following his recent chemo treatment. The best news of the week was Kancho's PET scan results which indicated a small reduction in his pelvic tumor, but more importantly a moderate reduction in the cancer cell density and activity in the tumor tissue. This will likely mean he will proceed with the last cycle of his initially prescribed Hyper CVAD regimen, and then move forward with stem cell transplant. We will find out more details as we enter August and talk with Dr. Serody at UNC Chapel Hill. Overall the news was positive and we continue to follow the lead of our doctors toward the goal of remission.

Thanks for your thoughts and prayers,

Alison, Kancho and Kylee

Not home for long :-(

2009-06-25T09:54:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone this is Alison posting an update for Kancho. He had to be readmitted to the hospital today due to infection from mouth and throat sores that are keeping him from eating or drinking and causing him great pain. He has lost over 10 lbs since we returned from Florida and they will be able to give him fluids and nutrition through an IV in the hospital. We are bummed......of coarse, but naturally want him to feel better more than be home. One of the hardest aspects of this journey for me has been seeing someone I love so much in intense pain while I can't do anything to help relieve it.

The highlight of our week, despite these trials was Kancho's reunification with his stepbrother Frank Spasoff (picture above). Kancho and Frank have only seen each other a couple of times in their lives and ironically Kancho's battle with cancer has brought them together after 20+ years. It proves to show us that within times of tribulation, there are hidden miracles to be found. Frank spent dinner at our home Tuesday evening and it was a joy to get to know him better. He is such a warm and genuine person who we hope will remain connected to our family into the future.

I will update you all as I get more info about Kancho's condition in coming days. My hope is that he quickly begins to gain strength and heals so he can come back home.

Love,

Alison

Cycle 3 completed!

2009-06-22T04:08:00.001-07:00

I was admitted on 6/16/09 for cycle 3 part B. The treatment went ok and I was able to get home to spend Father's Day with Kylee and Ali. YEY!!!! The care partners on the unit shared my excitement about getting released as they escorted me down to the car. I enjoyed Ali's lunch break visits where we cuddled and looked at pictures from our recent trip to Florida to keep my spirits up. Kylee had a pirate themed week at daycare and I attached a photo of her dressing like a pirate for a class treasure hunt. Even though Kylee is used to being home with me during the summers, she seems to be adjusting to attending daycare and making the best of it without "daddy daycare" this year. She is such a trooper and source of joy for me right now!

Love,

Kancho

Therapeutic Trip to Florida

2009-06-16T07:56:00.000-07:00

We went on a family vacation for the first time since my diagnosis. The trip was fantastic! I can't believe how therapeutic this was for my entire body; I felt like the "old me" so to speak. As you can see the sunsets were outstanding! We watched all the beautiful sunsets, played with the dolphins, and went fishing with Captain Kerry. Kylee liked the fishing the best. She beat all of us by catching 10 fish. We also enjoyed hours of pool time. Ali surprised me with a renewal of vows ceremony to mark our 12 years of marriage (anniversary on June 14).

I have been readmitted to the hospital today (room #3447) for cycle 3 part B. I hope to be back home with my family by Father's Day!

Love,

Kancho, Ali and Kylee

2009-06-05T16:59:00.000-07:00

Well, I've had a long 7 days since last posting. I have been in the clinic daily for transfusions or blood count checks and things are improving gradually as expected. A loving couple from our church, Jane and Joe Gufree, have been a godsend as Joe takes me to and from the clinic daily so Ali does not have to take off work and they both make us yummy food! We get to see Ali's parent's weekly and we are grateful that they live close by. Kylee and I have been watching baseball when we can (Go Giants!!). We hope to take a family trip before I am scheduled for readmission on 6/16/09 for cycle 3 part B. I plan to prepare by relaxing and enjoying some special family time next weekend. Ali and I will be celebrating our 12 yr anniversary on 6/14/09 in addition to father's day that weekend. It is weird how this challenging illness has brought Ali and I closer than we have ever been. We are grateful and look forward to many more years of marriage together. Hope everyone has a nice weekend and we will post again on 6/16/09 or soon after.

Love

Kancho, Ali and Kylee

Transplant consultation today

2009-05-28T19:28:00.000-07:00

Hi all, it's Ali typing this entry.....
Kancho and I traveled to Chapel Hill today for our consultation appointment with Dr. Serody at the Bone Marrow Clinic. Given that the session included 3 1/2 hrs of information and I am exhausted, I will share the "short" version :-) Dr. Serody would like to see Kancho proceed with completing cycle 3 part B of the Hyper CVAD regimen here locally followed by another PET scan. The reason behind this is that they want to make sure the remaining pelvic tumor has reduced in size as much as it can before moving onto stem cell transplant. Stem cell transplant can only be administered one time and as long as the tumor is not gaining in size, there is no rush to do it sooner. The doctor described the transplant tx as a "seal the deal" kind of option, however there are little clinical outcomes to define cure rate for Kancho's rare type of lymphoma. Ball park is about 30% success rate from stem cell transplant for similar non-Hodgkin's lymphoma patients. The doctor estimates that we will enter phase 1 of the transplant process (collection of Kancho's stem cells) in September and then phase 2 (actual transplant) in October where we will be hospitalized in Chapel Hill for at least a month. This overall timeline for transplant could vary depending on Kancho's recovery time after cycle 3 concludes, and the response his tumor shows over the next 3 months. We met several UNC hospital staff who will be involved with us from now forward, and all of them were very supportive. Kancho is scheduled for outpatient chemo tomorrow which will conclude his cycle 3 part A tx. We will observe his blood counts for the next few weeks and update you as we approach another hospitalization at NEMC for part B. Thanks again for all your concern and prayers. This will be a long process and the sustained support we have received from family and friends has been amazing. Keep it up!

Luv,
Ali

Coming home today........fingers crossed!

2009-05-23T07:18:00.001-07:00

I have had an uneventful hospitalization this week. Things went pretty smooth and if all goes as planned I should be discharged this afternoon. I will have completed cycle 3 part A of the initially prescribed Hyper CVAD chemotherapy regimen. We are headed to the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center at UNC Hospitals this Thursday for our consult appointment with my transplant doctor (Dr. Serody). We should find out more about when we will be staying there for the 6 week treatment process. Ali has had a childhood friend Nicole in town for a "girls weekend" and Kylee has been having a blast with them getting toes painted, hair fixed and playing dress up! I will keep everyone updated once we return from our appointment Thursday.

Love,

Kancho

Philippians 4:6,7

‘Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.’

Acts 4:30

‘Stretch out your hand to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus.’

Back in for chemo treatment 5/19/09

2009-05-16T09:34:00.000-07:00

Lots of clinic visits this past two weeks. I think I have been up there daily whether for count checks, to get platelets or blood transfusions, or for a neupogen shot (helps to jump start my white blood cell production). It has been nice to have Ali's godfather John here for the past few weeks to help out. He is traveling back to Florida as I write this. I am scheduled to be admitted to CMC Northeast this coming Tuesday for cycle 3 part a. The doctor wants to keep me on the Hyper CVAD chemo regimen until UNC Hospital's bone marrow transplant unit is ready to admit me. We have our consult appointment in Chapel Hill with Dr. Serody on 5/28/09 where we will likely learn a whole lot more about the estimated 6 week stay there for my transplant. As you can see I allow Kylee to sleep with me some before I have to leave the house for hospitalization. I'm a sucker for her puppy dog eyes! Thanks for all your continued prayers.

Kancho

May 10th 2009

2009-05-10T07:07:00.000-07:00

Ali's birthday and Mother's Day were reasons to celebrate this weekend and value our time together. We attended the NC Research Park "Village Fest" Saturday evening where there was food and live music to enjoy. My favorite local band "Super Glide" took the stage at 7pm and Kylee danced with a friend near the stage for hours. Sunday morning Kylee helped Ali fill my med box which can take an hour or more, but Kylee takes great pride in her role to nurse me back to health. Hope everyone has a restful Mother's Day weekend.

Love,

Kancho, Ali and Kylee

Mixed Emotions

2009-05-01T17:32:00.000-07:00

We left our Thursday doctor's appointment with mixed emotions. We were informed that the PET scan taken yesterday indicated all but one tumor had disappeared. Unfortunately the remaining tumor is stubborn and has not decreased in size since January. I was originally 11 centimeters long by 5 centimeters in diameter. It is now 5.5 centimeters in length and 3 centimeters in diameter. Since the current chemo regimen is not strong enough we have to move to stem cell transplant or the tumor will continue to grow. This means we have to go to UNC Chapel Hill for a consult appointment, then a 6 week stay for the transplant to be performed. Basically the chemo regimen they administer is so strong it eradicates your bone marrow where cells are born. They plan to perform autologous stem cell transplant which means Kancho's own cells will be harvested and then injected into him after the heavy duty chemo treatment. He has been in the clinic daily since discharge getting outpatient chemo meds, platelets, and red blood cell transfusions (1st photo). Stress can lead to strange things like "gown dance night" where Kylee and BaBa put their hospital gowns on and dance around while mommy films it. For some reason the video would not load so a photo will have to do. We are hanging in there and awaiting a call from the transplant case manager who will follow us through the whole transplant process. They will not allow too much time to pass before stem cell transplant occurs so we expect to go to UNC Chapel Hill within a couple weeks. We will keep everyone posted a usual via blog.

Love,

Ali and Kancho

Home Sweet Home

2009-04-26T14:23:00.000-07:00

I was discharged today after a 24hr period without a fever. I am soooooooooooo glad to be home! The hospital gets to me after about 4 days and I get grouchy. My sister Fran should be arriving from DC later today and I can't wait to see her. I should get my PET scan this week that will indicate where treatment goes from here. If the PET scan shows a reduction in the size of my cancer masses, then they will likely continue on coarse with the remaining 4 cycles of Hyper CVAD chemo treatment. If the caner does not seem to be responding as it should then we may look at alternative treatments or stem cell transplant. We are hopeful for the first option even though the thought of any more chemo treatments makes me cringe :-) Hope to have a couple weeks home for now.

Luv,
Kancho

4/25/09

2009-04-25T11:14:00.000-07:00

Still here in the hospital, but have completed the part b chemo treatments. I developed a fever both Thursday and Friday so they have to hold me until they determine the source of the fever, or I am without a fever for at least 24hrs. Today I had a visit from the infectious disease doctor and am getting two bags of blood transfused because my hemoglobin's are low. My platelet and white blood cell counts remain normal. Forgot to mention in last post that I am in room #3448 this admission. I have begun to grow hair back in isolated places on my face :-) Looks interesting, but hopefully is a good sign of my bodies ability to rejuvenate itself. Hope you all are doing well and enjoying the summer-like weather we are having this weekend.

Luv
Kancho

Comfort of family :-)

2009-04-22T16:55:00.001-07:00

Hey! I am adjusting to hospital life again and am almost halfway through the chemo treatments for this cycle as of today. Thanks to the many visitors as you help to keep my spirits up. I especially enjoy the family time with Ali and Kylee in the evenings. As you can see Kylee loves to steel my bed when I am not looking! The last picture is when Kylee helped Ali shave my head before admission this past Monday.

Thanks again for all your thoughts and prayers. They mean a lot!

Love,

Kancho

Good News!!

2009-04-19T14:55:00.000-07:00

Good news, my blood and platelet levels are high enough today for me to be admitted to the hospital tomorrow at 8:00 am. This means I'll start chemo cycle 2 part b tomorrow. I feel very blessed that my blood levels are high enough to go to the hospital. I had a nice visit with Ali's older sister Tricia over the weekend which help to lightened up the mood around the house between daily clinic visits! I'll keep you posted during the week while I'm in the hospital.

Thanks for all your support!

Love:

Kancho

After Doctor's visit

2009-04-17T16:33:00.000-07:00

Today, Alison and I went see Dr. Williams to figure out a new game plan. I received a neupagin shot to help raise my white blood cells. I'll have to get another shot tomorrow for the same reason. On Sunday, I'll have a blood check to see if the shots are working. If so, I'll check in the hospital on Monday. If I have to get another shot on Sunday, I can't check in the hospital until Tuesday. I will keep you posted during the weekend.

Thanks again for every one's support!

Love:

Kancho

Here we go again.........

2009-04-16T08:05:00.000-07:00

Here's today's update for Thursday 4-16-09. I had blood work today, hoping it would be high enough to be admitted in the hospital tomorrow. Unfortunately, my blood counts are too low again, so I'm getting a CT Scan at 3:00 today. Tomorrow I have a doctor's appointment at 9:50 am to go over the CT Scan results and figure out a game plan for my treatment the rest of the way. So today will be fun, I can't wait to drink the 2 big cans of contrast for my CT Scan at 3:00. LOL. I will do another post tomorrow after my doctor's appointment.

Keep the prayers, comments, texts, and phone calls coming, I can't do this alone. I need all of you to do this!! Thanks!

Love:

Kancho

Monday Blues!! 4-13-09

2009-04-13T10:18:00.000-07:00

I hope this update finds everyone doing well, after the Easter Holiday. Kylee is with Ali's parents in Charleston, having a blast! She's been with her relatives since last Thursday. She has played on the Pirate Playground, went on an Easter Egg hunt, received a basket from the Easter bunny and today she's visiting the Charleston Aquarium with her cousin Lilly. We are excited she will be back tomorrow b/c I really miss her big time!

Well, here's another Monday come and gone w/o being admitted to the hospital. My blood counts are coming up but not enough to get chemo. I'm going to the cancer clinic on Thurdays to check my blood counts again. If the levels are high enough, I will be admitted on Friday (not gonna hold my breath).

Again, thanks so much for viewing my blog, the phone calls, texts, and prayers for my family and I.

Love................Kancho

Still at home

2009-04-07T14:44:00.000-07:00

Well I'm still at home due to low blood counts. I was due back in the hospital Monday; however, we are looking at next Monday April 13. I never thought I would want to go to the hospital as much as I do right now. Being in the hospital is the only way I can get the treatment I need to get better. Once I go in the hospital and get back out, I will be halfway through my chemo treatment. After that, I will get a Pet scan to evaluate my progress.

I appreciate everyone thoughts and prayer, keep them coming they are really working.

Thanks:

Kancho

Waiting Game

2009-03-31T17:30:00.000-07:00

Since my discharge on 3/20/09 I have had to report to the outpatient clinic almost daily for blood work. My white blood count and platelets have not rebounded as they should so the doctor has delayed my re-admission for cycle 2 part b scheduled to begin yesterday. It is nice to be home and to spend time with my aunt Barbara who has been in town from Jersey since last Wednesday. I am sad to see her leave tomorrow, but she has stocked the freezer with yummy foods and been a real trooper with all my unexpected clinic visits this past week. Kylee will miss her silly bath time games and new bedtime books, and will now insist on entering me in her daily "horse show" for entertainment!
Thanks for the continued prayers and support. I enjoy receiving your calls, e-mails, and cards; they really keep my spirits up. Ali and I will post an update once I get settled at the hospital next week for treatment.

Thanks
Kancho

Visits from family!

2009-03-21T06:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday family came to visit (3/20). Robyn, who is Alison's younger sister came up from Charleston, SC with her daughter Lily. As you can see everyone was excited to see each other. Kylee enjoys playing with Lily when visit.

March Madness

2009-03-20T16:36:00.000-07:00

Got back home from the hospital today....just in time to watch March Madness!!! Looks like I'll be home for a while. I don't have to be back in the hospital until March 31. At that point, I will cycle 2 part B and that will put me at the halfway point of my chemo treatment. It's nice to be home again, and I look forward to my aunt Barara coming visit from jersey next week. Thanks for everyone's support, miss and love you!!!

Home for the weekend

2009-03-19T17:57:00.000-07:00

Hello again this is Alison with an update. Kancho has been in the hospital since Saturday evening and, after several blood and platelet transfusions, he has gained strength to return home this weekend. He is scheduled for readmission to the hospital for cycle 2 part B chemo regimen early next week, and we are grateful for any time he can be home with us. He will post some new photos and comments this weekend.

Thanks for your support,
Alison

3-14-09 re-hospitalization

2009-03-15T06:46:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone. This is Alison entering an update on Kancho's behalf. He has had a difficult time with nausea and pain since last Wednesday and received fluids in the outpatient clinic several times due to dehydration. These symptoms were not improving and on top of that he developed a fever last night. We consulted with the on-call doctor and he was readmitted to the hospital last night. His pain and nausea are now under control and he is comfortably resting in the hospital (room #3452). Thanks again for all the prayers and support for Kancho and our family.

Luv
Ali

Cycle 2 part A completed!

2009-03-14T07:17:00.000-07:00

Wow!! Do I love this little girl. She's the best daughter ever. I have the best wife ever as well.

I enjoy/crave a special treat while undergoing

chemo and it is a raspberry collider from Smoothie King! I have been known to down a couple in one day. Expensive habit, but oh well. I also have named my IV poll "George" because he has to go everywhere with me so I might as well name him right? Kylee, George, Ali and I take many walks up and down the hall while I am in the hospital. Kylee thinks one of the chemo meds is soooooo cool because it is red like koolaid. I think I left the hospital in 5 days compared to 17 last trip in, I wanted to get home so bad, I think I fooled myself as well.

Here's the chemo Kylee thinks is a big bag of Koolaid!! Trust me it isn't!!! Today, isn't too bad, so hopefully it will stay that way. Again, I couldn't be healing without all the help, support, strength and love!!

Thanks!!!

Shrinking Masses

2009-03-07T09:22:00.000-08:00

3-7-09

Today I received my ct scan results from yesterday. The mass in my left pelvis shrunk 2 cm in diameter and the one in my abdomen shrunk 1 cm in diameter from the initial ct scan on 1-8-09.
So far so good!!!! Thanks to everyone who has been following my progress!!

Kancho

Back in "Hotel 3J"

2009-03-06T05:48:00.000-08:00

3/5/09 -Back in hospital ...........we call it "Hotel 3J" because the medical oncology unit is located on 3rd floor of hospital wing J.

As you can see from the picture in the hospital parking lot, I'm real excited to go back. Not! Who's gotta big lip???

I was a little chilly when I first got in my room(#3442....hint, hint..... visitors welcome). 3/6/09- Chemo is going well so far I cleared the "test dose" of the chemo medicine they thought I had an allergic reaction to the first time. I am now on my second dose of it and the other chemo meds are going fine. They will be taking another CT scan today so they can re-evaluate my cancer's response to the chemo regimen (in addition to conducting blood tests to gage number of cancer cells in my blood stream). I am really hoping this hospitalization is shorter than my last two admissions.

Finally done with chemo cycle 1

2009-03-01T08:01:00.000-08:00

My uncle John came in town for several weeks to provide support and is a sports fanatic like me. We spent hours discussing sports and was s great way to pass the time. Once home I felt much better and full of energy! Kylee and I played "climbing mount BaBa" and I got to pick her up from school a couple times. I am now preparing for a clinic appointment on 3/2/09 where Dr Williams will evaluate my readiness to re-enter the hospital for chemotherapy part A of cycle 2 on 3/5/09.

Back in the hospital

2009-03-01T07:45:00.001-08:00

I began part b on 2/5/09 and was somewhat comforted to see familiar faces on the oncology unit. My doctor Richard Williams and one of my nurses, Cindy. They take great care of me during what can be a scary time for everyone. This chemo treatment was much more difficult for me as I developed several fevers and infection that delayed my release. I had to dig deep for patience and trust for the "process". I was only suppose to be in the hospital for 5 days and it ended up being 17 days..ugh! I was able to share Valentine's Day with my daughter and wife and read almost daily to Kylee. I was finally released on 2/22/09, and was more that eager to get some time at home in my bed. It is impossible to sleep at the hospital!

2009 Snow Storm

2009-03-01T07:37:00.000-08:00

I was so excited to be home for snow. Unfortunitey I did not experience the full value since I did not "officially" miss school due to the snow. It was nice anyway! I will be out of work for at least 6 months to undergo the four cycles of chem called Hyper CVAD. I go back into the hospital tomorrow to begin chemotherapy part B of cycle 1.

Back home- losing my hair!

2009-03-01T07:24:00.000-08:00

I arrived back home on 22nd and began resting up for my next chemo treatment. I soon noticed my hair was falling out so Ali buzzed me prior to the superbowl game on 1-31-09. As you can see Kylee thought is was super cool to see BaBa bald! I visited the oncology clinic almost daily due to dropping white blood cell counts and to receive outpatient chemo medicines. Ali's reassurance that I still look cute is comforting.....even bald! lol

Shoots & Ladders

2009-02-28T11:33:00.000-08:00

On January 8th, I was hospitalized and later diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Burkitts-Like Lymphoma. As you can see, kids don't really understand what's going on. Kylee's raising her hand b/c she just beat BaBa in shoots & ladders. You would think I could get some sympathy from my own daughter but No she brings her "A" game no matter what she's doing (wonder were she got that from). From January 8th until January 22, I began a very aggressive chemo treatment b/c this rare form of cancer is very aggressive as well. For the most part my body did ok, other than a couple of set backs. I believe I did so well was that I had a great support group from my families and friends. My sister Fran and her husband Joe came down in January to help out. We really appreciated it!