I often struggle against being a 'Debbie Downer' but I'm not gonna lie:  it has been a brutal week. We spent almost every day at the Hospital but we are ever so grateful (and knock on wood) it has been 'outpatient'.


Yesterday started with a 7:30am PT scan and ended with several late night discussions with oncologists regarding the results.  The scan was the 3D color image that was supposed to have happened on Wednesday - they moved it to yesterday.  I venture to say that the results are 'great', though the delivery of the news was a bit unsteady. There is still metabolic activity (active cancer cells) in the neck, shoulder and chest region and based on this we were told that this was 'less than optimal' and that Faye would require more chemotherapy, beyond the original four sessions.  4 hours later they called to tell us that on further evaluation the mass has shrunk by greater than 60% which changes the parameters which they use to qualify treatment.  And, based on the amount of shrinkage Faye is now classified as an 'early rapid responder' and she will not need the additional chemotherapy.  She will definitely need two rounds of radiation but we kind of already knew this.  So.  Whew.  Big sigh of relief.  We are half way through the chemo part!

The one day that we managed to avoid a trip to Children's was the day of Ellie's funeral:  it was an absolutely lovely remembrance and memorial service.  The church was packed and overflowing into an outer viewing area and beyond.  I'm certain not one soul sat through that service without being overwhelmed with emotion.  It was an inspiration to us all to reflect on how capricious life is and how vulnerable we all are.  Cheers and big hugs to all.  ~Lolly