Wednesday, October 17, 2007

Chemo starts next week

Posted for Sheri...

Hi Everyone,

It’s time for another WallyGram update. Wally had his appointment with the oncologist today which went well. The doctor was very pleased to see that Wally was looking and feeling so good. He asked him the question, “If you didn’t know that you already had cancer, would you think that you might have it?” Of course his answer was, “NO”. He even woke up the other morning and told me that he didn’t think he had cancer anymore because he was feeling so good! That has been a wonderful blessing for our family. He also had a flu shot today since they were giving them for free at the hospital and the doctor said it certainly wouldn’t hurt to get one, especially today.

His next appointment will be on Wednesday, the 24th for all of his tests which include a CT scan, chest x-ray, and blood work so that they can have a baseline for comparison. He will then start his chemotherapy on Thursday, the 25th and will go every two weeks for the next year – that sounds like a long time to me! His chemo will include 3 different drugs and each visit will be approximately 4 – 5 hours. I think Virginia Mason Hospital may get a little old after a while, although it will be a great time to catch up on some reading and just have some quiet time together. :) Wally, being Wally made the comment that maybe he will just ride the bus into Seattle for his chemo and I can just pick him up when he’s done. Both the doctor and I gave him the look of “You’re kidding – right?” Many of you think Wally always has good ideas – as you can see, some are not so good!

After a year, they will reevaluate and decide what to do next. He may go on a maintenance program or take some time off from the chemo. We will just have to wait and see how he does. Again, we are learning to live day by day. We love his doctor who has a great attitude and is a believer and will also pray for his patients – he looks at his job as a ministry! Praise God.

We will have to see how he reacts to the chemo – being a Carruthers, he may breeze right through it. Wally’s father used to always say, “Wipe up the blood and get back to work” and I think that has been passed on from generation to generation. Wally’s father also beat cancer – twice!

We continue to be encouraged by your blogs, e-mails, phone calls, cards, letters and prayers – many from people we don’t even know!

Next update will probably be next week.

~Sheri~

7 comments:

JoAnn said...

That sounds like a good plan! Isn't it nice to have something on your calendar?
Hey Wally - I have always wanted to learn to ride the bus - I will ride it with you! We can drink and drive that way! You buy the coffee and I will but the bus pass :)

We love you guys!

Anonymous said...

Hi Wally,
We had hoped to visit before we left for Japan but it appears that at this point, my time is running short and I have a buncha stuff to do before Jenessa and I leave.
I will be checking your grams as often as I can and I will be praying for you everyday. Since I will be praying in Japan, which is 16 hours ahead, you are going to be immersed in prayer!
Love you, my brother-
Anthony
Psalm 118:24-29

Unknown said...

So glad to hear that you are feeling strong and energetic...especially to take the bus. Anytime you need a buddy, you can always call on us! Stay strong...you have a wedding to attend next year!

Jen & Griff

Jason Stellman said...

God bless you, Wally. See you for coffee in the morning.

Anonymous said...

Goodmorning Wally and Sher,

We are so thankful to hear you are feeling great, Wally. How are you feeling Sheri?? I think it is always good to think of creative ways to get through something so riding the bus is a creative idea, but.....We must stop by one day soon. Our grandkids are keeping us pretty busy right now. Kristi and Carl are no longer Alaskan's. Carl took a job in Fallon, Nev. about an hour south of Reno. So we will get a new look at our country. Presently they are driving down the Alaskan Hwy and we hope to see them about Monday on their way to their new home. Becky has just started a new business. Her web address is www.devoted to kids.com ( I think there are spaces but not sure. She is selling a Faith line of kids carpets. I hope I didn't take up all the comment room and your time. You are in our prayers and trust our God to take good care of you and your. Love, Janie

Unknown said...

Awesome news and a great report!

Unknown said...

Hey,
I think the Bus idea is just Wally's way of helping out!
I hope all goes well with the chemo. It can be rough. Your faith in our Lord will give you strength to get thru it. Your sense of humor will also help.
We are praying for you and Sheri and the kids.
Love you guys,
Letha and Don