Nicole's Trip & Chemo Round 2

Hey Everyone!

  Over Columbus Day weekend I decided to take a trip and escape reality.  I went to Clearwater, FL to visit Brieanne, one of my college roommates and her sweet one month old son.  The best part was that Maureen and Katie, my other college roommates, met me there!  Despite the fact that it rained almost the entire weekend, we had and amazing time.  I haven't laughed that hard in a long time, so I think it was just what the doctor ordered!
  Ken had his second chemo treatment on Tuesday, October 11.  Recently the office that Ken is going to for chemo began opening up everyday for treatment of chemo patients.  This meant that it was FAR less crowded in the treatment room...and much quieter.  We were lucky enough to have our friend, Maryann, come and sit with Ken during his treatment, which enabled me to go grocery shopping and run errands.  Thanks, Maryann!

  After the 4 hour chemo treatment, we met again, with the oncologist...and even received some potentially good news!  She decided to do a "booty exam".  Without getting too graphic, she said that this time it was much easier to do the exam and that it appears that the "mass" is already shrinking!!  We have to thank each and every one of you for your continued support!  It is because of your continued prayer that this is happening!  We won't be for certain how much or how quickly the mass is shrinking until Ken has another round of scans.  At this point those are not scheduled, but we'll make sure to keep you posted. 
This is what Ken looks like in the days following his treatment.  Good thing he has such a good snuggle-buddy!  This time after his treatment, Ken responded MUCH better.  He is beginning to develop more of an appetite, especially for pasta and pizza (random!).  Because of his sensitivity to cold beverages he needs to drink everything at room temperature or warmer, which is difficult.  But, thankfully he enjoys soups and hot tea...and of course coffee!
Like a trooper, Ken continues to work.  His boss has done a great job of accommodating his treatment schedule.  As of right now, Ken is working 5 nights a week.  His shifts run from about 3:30pm -11:30 or 12:30 am.  He has every Tuesday and Wednesday off.  For the time being this is working out fine.  The doctor told Ken that if he can, he should work.  But as time goes on, we are prepared to reassess this situation. 

Since we both don't have to be to work until 3:30 in the afternoon, much of our day is spent taking these monsters to the dog park and watching them play and chase each other around our apartment.  It is definitely a welcomed distraction and we are so happy that we have them! 
Well...that's it!  I think you guys are finally all caught up!  :)  So if you don't hear from us before, check back here in about 2 weeks and hopefully there will be more good news to spread!  XOXO Ken & Nicole