All Kinds of News

I was lucky enough to sneak in a small visit with Erin, Claire, and Claire's sister, Susan.  They were having a cozy Valentine's Day snuggled up with Claire, who was experiencing a harder day, post-chemo.  Erin and Claire both agree that this new chemo cocktail is not very kind.  Erin has discovered that acupuncture has been helpful with the nausea and fatigue.  Hopefully that will continue to be a successful tool for her.  Although both women have been facing some unpleasant side effects, we still enjoyed some chatting, teasing,  a touch of gossip, and maybe just enough profanity to make a sailor blush.  All in all, it was wonderful to see their positive nature shine through, even on a harder day.

The gals and I did receive some fun news this weekend.  Our blog has been selected as one of the top cancer blogs by Empowered Doctor.  Empowered Doctor is a news affiliate of The Chicago Tribune, Arizona Central, and CBS New York.  To begin with, I think we are all a little shocked that our humble little blog crossed their computer screens at all.  We are just beginning to learn what this recognition means, but are so excited for the possibilities.  I keep thinking back to when Erin was first diagnosed this summer.  This blog really started as a way to communicate her updates and stories with her friends and family.  Within a couple of months, we sadly added Claire to the cancer journey.  Although the original intention was just communication with loved ones, we are all learning the vastness of our audience.  I am so, so incredibly proud of Erin and Claire for allowing me to share their stories.  Through their openness with me and their willingness to publicize this journey, they are helping to hold the hands of many other people struggling directly with cancer or supporting a loved one in the same predicament.  Thank you, Erin and Claire.  This blog might be pounded out by my fingers, but the stories belong to you.  Your courage and strength will benefit so many.  I am so, so proud of both of you.

A Phenomenal Benefit and Some Chemo Updates

Without question, Terry and Claire have been blessed with some fabulous friends in Ajo.  A few weeks ago, their Arizona family held a benefit silent auction and dance fundraiser.  All of the tickets were sold, filling their venue to capacity.  Local artisans donated all kinds of wonderful items like handmade jewelry, handmade pottery, original paintings, private in-home concerts, brunch for six, as well as many other amazing finds.  Paintings by both Claire and by Terry were auctioned off, touching off a bit of a bidding war by some friends.  The winner of Claire's painting donated it the same night to a mutual friend who loved it so much.  What a touching gesture!  It sounds to me like something Claire herself would do.  Awesome.  Thank you to everyone who donated items, purchased tickets, bid on the prizes, and helped make this event a huge success.  Special thanks to Chris Manson, Wendee Cloutier, Deborah Whittemore, and Ralph Hudson for making this the most organized event imaginable.  My apologies if I missed anyone, just know that all of the time, blood, sweat, and tears that went into this event is greatly appreciated.  Claire and Terry can feel the love, even from miles away.  I'm sure it has brightened many of their days in gray, wintry Spokane.  Thank you!

Claire returned to chemo today.  Hopefully, it will be kind to her.  This is her first taste of the "poison" since her mastectomy.  In time, she will see how her body reacts to this breed of chemo.  We are all crossing our fingers that it does the job, while sparing her the awful side effects.  Claire did receive some good news from her CT scan.  Her cancer has not spread to any other locations!!!!!  AWESOME!!!!!   She will be having chemo treatments every three weeks, with a total of four rounds of chemo in this set.

Erin had another round of chemo last week, her second since her lumpectomy.  This type of chemo is different than what she had last fall and is not treating her kindly.  Erin is struggling with intense nausea and extreme fatigue.  Hopefully, the side effects will lessen soon.  She shared with me that while she was having a particularly difficult moment, her sweet Landy Lou brought her juice, crackers, and tissues to try to console his loving mama.  What a sweet little man!  Those two boys are remarkable.

If you would like to send Erin and Claire your support, cards can be sent to:
3118 W Grace
Spokane WA 99205

Also, their meal calendar has seen very little activity since the holidays.  January is so hard for all of us!  If February is treating you kinder and you would like to sign up, please do.  Thank you!!!

Schweitzer Pictures!