Still Going Strong

I apologize for not keeping up to date - but I feel like there isn't really anything new to update with.  Rick is just about at the end of his 2nd round of the chemo.  His last shot is on Thursday and then he will wait a week and have his blood re-tested.  The Dr will then review his numbers and determine if he has to go through another round of the chemo - or if his numbers have dropped enough that he will be considered a good candidate to head to Salt Lakes transplant center.  We are obviously praying for the latter.

He has remained healthy and fairly strong considering this stuff is attacking his bones.  (and considering he is dealing with the broken back)  The only side effect that has come our way so far is the that his feet have started to swell and little and there are a few cancer burns coming thru on his lower legs.  He claims they aren't painful - just uncomfortable.  I guess we will take the uncomfortable to the throwing up and losing hair side effects though.

The past month his life has been full of family.  We have had two family reunions and he has braved both of them with a smile.  We recognize now - more than ever - just how important it is to have family around at times like this.  My dad is eternally grateful to those who send him kind notes, phone calls, texts, emails and stop in for visits.  We - as his family - are also very grateful to those who keep us in their thoughts, prayers, and continue to do the little things to strengthen my mom and she has taken on the role of his care provider :)  We love that woman more than anything!!

As we head in to this last shot - we ask again for your thoughts and prayers that this will bring his numbers down.

and there aint nothin like a good family pic from a family reunion :)