Goodbye, Chemoball!

This week was pretty awful for Zach.  And I know it is not going to be his worst.  Immediately after his treatment on Monday the side effects hit. His nausea was barely controllable with medication and at times not even that could help. Zach's lower back and muscles ached very badly from the infusions.  His fatigue was stronger than anything he has felt so far and everything he ate had a terrible taste to it.  His nutritionist suggested he begin eating foods he wasn't used to. Eating something familiar would almost certainly lead to disappointment during treatment when the food didn't taste like what he was used to.  But if Zach eats something he is not accustomed to then he won't associate a prior taste or experience with that dish.  And it won't be "ruined."  So he is trying new f00ds--pineapple juice being one.  

Zach had his chemoball removed today--and couldn't be happier. He immediately perked up when it was unhooked.  That thing is a real drag!  We are very pleased with his care at MSTI  in Meridian.  I appreciate the staff know us by name.  I am beginning to realize Zach is more than a patient and the longer he spends in this new world of ports, chemo, hospitals and side effects. It is our new life and we hope it is a long one.  

I am incredibly thankful for Zach's grandma Shirley and her husband Steve for grocery shopping, shoveling our driveway, and putting together a belated birthday present for Oliver--a table and chairs.  (I will teach that little boy to sit still for at least 30 seconds at a time!)  Stacy, a high school classmate I haven't seen in over 15 years brought over dinner this week.  Nathan and Lynette, friends and colleagues of Zach's, also treated us to dinner. Chris, a family friend folded our laundry. Every week I hear from people we have never met.  But they are offering heartfelt encouragement and hope through God.  I would not be getting through this if it weren't for my mom. She drops everything to come to my rescue to watch the little boys so I can tend to Zach's needs. I developed a bad infection and a high fever this week. She welcomed Oliver for a 2-night slumber party at her place because I didn't have the energy to chase those big brown eyes around! My aunt Christi and cousin Chelan were in town and gladly accommodated the 2 little boys spending the day with them so I could take Zach on errands and help him fight the fatigue that makes him want to sleep the hours away.  My mother in law Wendy came over and picked up Max Friday afternoon so I could drive myself to a doctor's appointment and then later take Zach to MSTI.  She returned Max and also brought dinner.  This is what every week is like!  You who are helping us with laundry, dinner, groceries, little boy care and prayers are amazing.  

Zach's goal is to teach in the mornings for the next 2 weeks.  I know this is going to be difficult for him.  The side effects of chemo are cumulative and will only get more difficult to endure.  Please pray for strength and for the side effects to remain at bay so he can do what he loves!

 Goodbye, chemoball!

Oliver enjoying a pre-dinner treat with Grandma Kathi! Sure beats being at home with mom and dad.  

Oliver's great aunt Christi and cousin Chelan treated him to quite the bubble bath.  What a bathing beauty!