Another Update/Set-back

Since last writing, I continued on Revlimid as an oral chemo and had started my third round on October 11th. My protein level had been going down (protein shows doctors if cancer cells are multiplying). However, a subsequent blood test revealed that my protein level has gone up. So, now a new plan of attack: I have to have a MUGA (multiple-gated acquisition scan) a non-invasive nuclear test that uses a radioactive isotope called technetium to evaluate the functioning of the heart's ventricles before I can receive the go-ahead to start IV chemo at the Hammond Clinic. Once I pass this test, I will have an IV port inserted in my chest to receive chemo twice a week for an unspecified (as of now) period of time. As soon as I finish the required protocol, I will have a bone marrow biopsy done, and if the chemo has done its job, I will go to UIC for the bone marrow harvest, high-dose chemo, and stem cell transplant. I hope that after all of this I will be in remission. So, once again, I ask for your prayers to get through this next phase in my dilemma. Donnie has been wonderful throughout the past year, and I know first-hand how he responds to the "better or worse" and "in sickness and in health" part of our marriage.
I missed the annual IAWP conference in September but the gals called and passed the phone around so I could talk to everyone who was near-by. Then, they sent me a "care package" including a giant card signed by a host of colleagues from around the world. I could only read a few comments at a time because my eyes got too teary to read. What a thoughtful, pleasant surprise to receive.