Support Registry Update

Kendal Update, First Full Week of Treatment

In support of
Kendal Barbee
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Kendal has now started the first full week of treatment. The days have become more structured. Radiation sets the schedule. Four hours before treatment she needs to stop eating. Two and a half hours before treatment, anti nausea medication. Two hours before, the chemotherapy pills. One hour after the pills she is allowed to eat again, although by then we are usually already in the car.

The trip into the city usually takes about forty five minutes. Some days we'll leave as the sun rises. Other days we'll head in as the sun sets, and sometimes somewhere in between. Labs take place every Tuesday, with a weekly check in appointment with the radiation oncologist each Wednesday.

So far nausea has not been part of the experience, although treatment is still early. There have been no headaches, vision remains good, and there has not been much pain. At the same time, the tumor makes its presence known each day. Walking and talking remain difficult and even standing is often unsteady. The tumor also brings its own unpredictability. Even something as simple as getting to the bathroom quickly has become a challenge. It is frustrating to see something so ordinary become so demanding (rude).

The focus right now is maintaining the function Kendal still has. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy are all part of that effort. The hope is that the radiation and chemotherapy will shrink the tumor and restore some of the ability to do the things she could do before February.

Hearing from so many of you continues to provide a great deal of encouragement. Your kindness and generosity mean more than we can easily put into words.

That is the update for now. We are hoping for a break in the weather this evening as we head into the city for treatment. Thank you for continuing to keep Kendal in your thoughts.

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Comments

Kristin Simmons

So glad that you are finally on a treatment schedule! Hang in there! We're all here supporting you and thinking of you! We love you! Kristin and Tim
  • about 2 months ago

Shelby Black-Couch

Lord, grant Kendal & Dennis an extra measure of strength, grace & endurance as they begin this treatment schedule. In the name of Christ, we pray for Kendal’s full healing. 🙏🏼🫶🏼
  • about 2 months ago

Karen Abbas

Sending so much love. I pray for as much normalcy as you can find! I pray for peace of mind and heart. I pray for healing❤️❤️
  • about 2 months ago

Jennifer Schuham

Thanks for the update. One day at a time! 🙌🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻 Sending up the prayers and asking the angels & healing to rain down!!!
  • about 2 months ago

Lauren Elsasser

Thinking of you, Dennis and Kendal! I hope that treatment progresses smoothly with happy results!
  • about 2 months ago

Jamie Grant

Lots of hugs coming your way, Sister ♥️
  • about 2 months ago

Jeff Denlinger

My heart and prayers are with you both.
  • about 2 months ago

Joe Hyun

Dear Kendal and Dennis, we’re so sorry you’re going through this. Know that our hearts and prayers are with you daily. And trust in His new mercies for you every morning as you take on this fight worth fighting. One day at a time. 💪🙏With much love❤️ Joe and Grace.
  • about 2 months ago

Karen Kingma

Thank you for the update and a glimpse into your new daily routine. We hope that you are finding small moments of joy throughout the day. Sunshine! 🌤️A great parking spot! 🚗Flowers in unexpected places! 🌷 Thinking of you every day. 🩷
  • about 2 months ago

Patti Blacker

Thank you for sharing, Dennis. Prayers for healing and comfort for Kendal and prayers for strength for you, Jordan and Ben. May God bring you through! 🙏🏻♥️🙏🏻
  • about 2 months ago

Karen Kellett

So good to get update!!! Praying!!! And much love to you all!
  • about 2 months ago

Jennifer Thorpe

Love you all. Daily prayers continue ❤️
  • about 2 months ago

Michelle Zomer

As you finish your first full week of treatment, I’m praying for stamina, for strength, for tolerance, and for a restful weekend. May you see early signs of success and find hope as you press forward. Loving & praying for you both!
  • about 2 months ago