Appointment Update

Hi everyone- I just wanted to provide an update about mom's appointment at Vanderbilt yesterday with Dr. Brown since several have asked, and I haven't had much of a chance to get back to anyone yet.  Posting something publicly is a totally new thing for me (I don't even have a Facebook account), so bear with me as I attempt to share updates and thoughts as we walk through this new season of life.

Thankfully Sheila was able to go along with mom and dad to see Dr. Brown.  He felt like she needed to gain weight and strength before attempting another chemoembolization treatment, so the current plan is to do another CT scan of her liver on Monday to see if the first chemo treatment has had any positive results thus far, and then he will decide where to go from there.  If she shows improvement, the next round will be delayed by at least a week.  He has been and will continue to consult with Dr. Sato at Jefferson Hospital in Pennsylvania.  Following her CT scan, she will go over to her first appointment with Dr. Reisman in hopes of getting started on some things he offers that will help boost her strength and energy levels and support her body.

Today she seemed to perk up quite bit, be standing straighter, and, most importantly, be getting an increase in appetite!  Shortly after her usual breakfast smoothie that dad has mastered making at this point, she got hungry again and wanted some eggs.  The next thing I know, I'm getting a text from her saying, "Betty Crocker made me some eggs" with a fancy picture of a plate of eggs mixed with veggies and sprinkled with pepper that I thought she pulled offline somewhere to send me.  It took a minute for it to register that by "Betty Crocker" she meant dad!  Mom says she thinks he's just been hiding his ability to cook for nearly 40 years.  :)

As soon as we know more, we'll try to update and continue to do so as often as possible.  We are so grateful for all the prayers, help, and encouragement thus far.  Thanks to some wonderful friends,  she's had some fabulous meals to eat.  Right now her room is filled with cards, and she really enjoys them along with the texts, emails, and uplifting comments you are all providing.  We all know how social she is, and although she hasn't had it in her so far to do much in terms of responding, these words from everyone really lift her spirits, and we are extremely grateful.

-Melissa