One Down - Five to Go

Dear Praying Friends,

1 down and 5 to go. :) My first day of chemo treatment went as well as I could have hoped for. I felt enveloped in God's peace and care all through the day. On the way there, I told Floyd that my body was a little nervous, but my heart was at peace. I felt carried by the prayers of friends.

There were little unexpected joys through the day. As we left our house, a friend was waiting at our gate with a gift bag of "survival" items for my day. It was so loving and thoughtful. Both Floyd and I were blessed as we opened the gifts all through the day.

The staff at the chemo center were very kind, but just the explanations of stuff they tell you scares you to death! It was a 6 hour treatment day. I was the 2nd to arrive, and the last to leave. Future days will be longer. They prepared me that this was my "easiest" chemo day - it will get harder. They were caring, positive, encouraging, but very realistic. The health care here in South Africa has been excellent. They gave me a good balance of encouragement and reality. I want to know what to expect so I can prepare myself for it.

The long day of treatment passed by quickly, and soon we were headed home. I was exhausted, but was glad to have one treatment finished. Thankfully, there was NO nausea - my biggest prayer request. I think I can handle all the other stuff more easily if I'm not nauseated. The drip they gave me for nausea will wear off today, so please continue to pray that there will be no nausea.

I've had lots of side effects in the last 48 hours, but I'm doing well. I've had ongoing knife like pain in my abdomen. I'm trusting that means there's lots of "killing" of cancer cells going on! That's what needs to happen.

One big prayer request - they told me the treatment can affect the kidneys. They will be testing to monitor that. I now have only the 1 functioning kidney. Please pray for protection for it......and continue to pray for a kidney miracle of the other one starting to function again.

The day before my treatment I went to our All Nations family staff meeting where everyone prayed for me. Very precious! I continually think of how grateful I am for all the prayer support.

One joy for me in the day is that Floyd is with me. It was very sad seeing all the people at the chemo center who were alone. Many of them. Lots of "stories" I'm sure. One young man looked like he was barely alive. I am so thankful to be surrounded by the love of family and friends. Thank you for being part of that.

Another unexpected joy was Lulu, the nurse who assisted me throughout my treatment. She was professional, caring and attentive.

Thank you for caring for Floyd and me during this time. We are so touched by your messages and your love.

Blessings,

Sally & Floyd