Tami Health Update 7/28
In support of
The James Family
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The James Family
Health Update: Round One Complete!
First round of chemo is officially in the books, and it went way better than I expected!
As the planner I am, I find that navigating the unknown continues to be the hardest part of this journey. A week ago, Mom Mom and I sat through "Chemo Boot Camp" and signed 32 pages of side effects. While we walked out feeling pretty confident about what to expect, actually stepping into the room is still tough.
Barry brought me in this morning, and we had a wonderful few hours together. We spent time laughing, crying, and reflecting on how blessed we are to have access to great healthcare and incredible medical workers. Because the day was a full 7 hours long (and anyone who knows Barry knows that sitting still for that long is no good for anyone!), Kara tagged him out so he could head home to be with the kids, and she stayed with me for the duration of treatment. We also laughed and cried, and I fear we did not have one complete conversation.
What Lies Ahead
My next round of chemo is in 20 days. Between now and then, we wait and see how my body handles everything. The general rhythm looks like:
- 7 good-ish days
- 7 pretty hard days
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7 days of rebuilding (depending on what my red and white blood cells decide to do!)
For those of you who know me well, you know I’ve always prided myself on my medical knowledge, and yes, I know I am not an actual doctor, BUT let me tell you, this journey is earning me a whole new degree! If everything goes according to plan, the next 84 days will have their fair share of ups and downs, but we are taking it one day at a time.
Today’s Tangible Blessings
God’s presence was so clear today through some truly special moments:
- Nurse Angela: A few years back, my friend Kelly went through chemo at Mercy and raved about her nurse, Angela. You guessed it, Angela was my nurse today too! It was such a comforting way to break the ice this morning.
- A Sign from Above: My great-aunt Annie’s name was also Angela, so I know she’s looking down on me from heaven and walking this path with me every step of the way.
- No Allergic Reactions: I didn't have an allergic reaction to either chemo drug!
- An Insurance Miracle: We hit a snag with coverage for a medication I need to take tomorrow. Mercy worked with an assistance program that helps cover extreme costs, and the costs were 100% covered.
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Women Loving Women: I feel very saddened and privileged to have joined a club of so many women who have gone before me to fight Breast cancer. I am thankful for them. For knowing what to say, when to say it, for showing up in exactly the right way. It is a club nobody wants to join, but I am thankful for the members who have gone before me and who are fighting with me today.
With Heartfelt Thanks
We felt the love every single step of the way today. Every call, text, card, and prayer means the world to us. Meredith was so right about adding meals into the mix, and we are deeply, endlessly grateful for all the support and delicious dinners.
THANK YOU for loving us, praying for our family, and walking this road right beside us.
Lots of love,
Tami & the James Family
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