the real McCoy

We had our first visit with the oncologist yesterday.  Chris, Chief, Tutu and I headed over there armed with his bright orange "playbook" and all of our questions.  We met with his PA, Jan, first. A few folks had warned us that the dietary changes we have been making wouldn't necessarily be met with some sort of marching band.  Not true with Jan!  She was ready to break out her trombone (and her wheat grinder) and had lots of good, practical suggestions to add as well.  Dr. McCoy then spent a great deal of time answering all of our questions and asking lots, too.  He ordered a PET scan, a bone marrow biopsy, heart test, and lung test--all of which is to say that Chris's dance card is full for the next couple of days.  Dr. McCoy will meet with us again Monday pm to discuss all results and officially "stage" this thing, but given what he saw on the CAT scan--he was encouraged and encouraging. So, not too much more to report. Chris should start chemo in about 2 weeks.  

(I almost wrote-"we" should start...even more annoying than when a well-meaning husband says "we're pregnant."  Really?  Are you the one turning green over there? Are you the one who has to get this thing out of your body, too?  No.  YOU are the one who caused all the trouble in the first place!)

I am painfully aware that the physical burden is on him.  

A good friend called the other day--insistent that she do something other than "just" pray.  I assured her that we were fine for now and that she should take away the word "just".  (Like it is some sort of consolation prize in place of a casserole).  I cannot think of anything more meaningful, powerful, useful or personal for someone to do than pray.  It means that you have stepped out of your busy life, away from all of the things/people pulling on you, and held that person up to God.  However you do it, wherever you do it and whatever you say--we thank you for lifting Chris up.  We feel covered in prayer.  

Love, 

Katherine and Chris (who has now taken an interest in the blog and likes to dictate to me...you can imagine how well that is going)

*The kids were more than distracted yesterday while we were at the doctor's office.  They drove (almost) to Alabama to pick up 13 new Leghorn chicks for the farm.  They got to see goats, rabbits, turkeys, pigs and a mule.  They told us that they can't wait to go back with T and Veronica to pick out more animals next month??!!??