Tender Mercies

Jan 6-11:  Nanette had her second Avastin infusion on Monday (6th) at Huntsman in Day Break.  This one took less time than the first one because they have increased the drip speed.  Her lab report was good again and so they proceeded with the infusion without delay.  She had a sweet nurse Melinda originally from South Carolina and she took good care of Nanette.  The oncologist at Huntsman wanted Nanette back on chemo immediately (5 days of double dose pills and 23 days off) but Nanette had a terrible time getting the pills sent to her.  She was on the phone for literally hours with the pharmacy (not a local one) and the insurance agency.  Every time she talked to someone, it was a different reason or excuse why they couldn't send her the pills.  It was a frustrating experience involving hours of phone time.  However, Nanette was kind and patient with everyone she spoke to and never once got angry.  The rest of us were pretty angry but not her.  She finally had to call Huntsman and ask them to be an advocate for her.  She was worn out trying to deal with everyone involved.  Doctor Colman's nurse Kiley came to her aid and got it straightened out and the pills were finally deliveredFriday morning, a week later than the doctor wanted.  Other than the trauma getting the pills, she had a very good week.  Her headaches are very, very minimal, if at all, and she has discontinued all pain medication.  She has even been able to reduce the dosage of steroids in small increments.  She is still suffering from insomnia but manages to get about 4 hours uninterrupted sleep and then she can sometimes go back to sleep for an hour or two after she has been up for awhile.  She is steady on her feet, has quite a bit of energy, and feels good.  The tremors in her hand have subsided.  Even though she is taking a higher dosage of chemo pills, she is tolerating it and hasn't had any side effects after the first dose.  And today (Friday) she drove her car for the first time in months.  Sergio did a test drive with her and said she was fine to drive locally.  So, she was off to the car wash and grocery store and beyond!  She is feeling like herself again in many ways..  We are all grateful for the good week she has had.  Elder David A. Bednar said "We should not underestimate or overlook the power of the Lord's tender mercies.  The simpleness, the sweetness, and the constancy of the tender mercies of the Lord will do much to fortify and protect us in the troubled times in which we do now and will yet live."  She is grateful for every day of progress and the Lord's tender mercies and your continued love, concerns and prayers..