the day has come, the hair must go

As Jason posted Monday, we have completed a second round of chemo. The fatigue and nausea have somewhat intensified compared to the last round, but definitely nothing too bad. I feel so blessed to not be so sick. I have been anticipating the hairloss to occur around this time, since we were told that's when it usually happens.  I was a bit taken by surprise though, as I was running my fingers through my hair while getting ready to head out for chemo Monday morning.  Hair started falling out with every stroke.  It got progressively worse as the day went on.  Hair was all over my pillow as I awoke Tuesday morning and as the day progressed, strands became more like clumps.  This morning I again awoke to a pillow covered in hair.  It became apparent that the day had come.  So I had my personal stylist, my dear sister Arianne, come and do the job.  We were both very nervous and in no hurry to get started.  She lovingly buzzed her youngest son Mason's hair in an act of support before we got started.  He is such a stud.  We tried to stall for quite a bit but eventually got to the task at hand.  Even through the nervousnes, I felt a great peace.  I know this is only for a moment.  It is only physical and I know it will grow back.  I have been so uplifted by all of you, by those who have shaved their heads in loving support, and by the tremendous amounts of prayers.  It gave me the strength I needed.  And I now know how it feels to shave my head.  It was something I always wondered what it would feel like, and especially look like.  It feels different, that's for sure.  A welcome cool breeze on the top of my head as the thermometer has been climbing lately.  I will mostly be sporting scarves and hats from now on.  I have been contemplating getting a wig, but we will see. I know I do this at the end of each post, but it doesn't feel right to log off without thanking you.  This all would be way too much without your support.  I feel like my family and I have been able to go through this experience with such peace and comfort, and I know it is because of your love, thoughts, support and prayers.  It wouldn't be right to let a moment go by without thanking you and my Father in Heaven.

We have gone through another round of Chemo, and Audree is still as strong as ever.  It is tough on her body, and the thought of losing her hair is tough on her, but she is holding strong.  The week that she has chemo is tough and takes her a few days to recover.  On facebook my brother created a group called Team Audree.  And a lot of people have posted their support by shaving their heads for her.  All these little things have made this experience a lot easier, and has brought smiles to our faces.  Audree keeps being super mom and spouse.  From talking to her you would not be able to tell that she is going through cancer treatment.  I know this because of all the prayers we have received on her behalf.  Their may be a lot of different religions involved, but as a christian community it is amazing to see everyone come together to pray for one person.  Throughout this process I am continually reminded of the parable in the scriptures that talks about the lost sheep, and how the shepherd (Jesus Christ) will not leave even one behind, that the worth of all souls are great. 

First I have to say, that everyone has been awesome, and we love all the support we are getting from everyone.  We have received lots of cards, flowers, gifts, and even have lots of people shaving their heads in support of Audree.  We have truly been blessed, and all the love and support has made this such an easier thing to deal with.  Today was Audree's first Chemo session, and so far so good.  It took almost 3.5 hours for the treatment from setup to finish.  I was not able to sit with her, but when I picked her up she said she felt fine.  I contribute that to how in shape and fit she is.  She has always eaten right and worked out each day.  So I guess that stuff is good for you.  I am trying to follow her lead.  She has been amazing through this whole thing and has been able to laugh and enjoy this process even though it is very unpleasant.  Staying positive is key and she is awesome at it.  I could not have received a better eternal partner than her, she really makes everyone around her better.  The plan is Chemo every other Monday for 2 months (4 treatments for all you English majors).  After that she will have treatment once a week for 12 weeks.  This is the plan the doctor put us on, and he said this could change in that it would be decreased or increased depending on the results.  The best way to look at it is 2 different treatments because she is being injected with different medications.  One is 4 treatments the other is 12 treatments.  We do not expect all the treatments to be as smooth as this one.  They said the first treatment is given at a slower pace to allow your body to get use to it, but we are praying for all of them to be as smooth as the first.  I hope they go that way for the sake of our kids because I cannot take care of our kids the way she can.  She is an amazing mother and wife, and I do not want to see her suffer.  Thanks for the support!!!