December 8, 2001

Update # 18 

Good evening, 

I'm finally getting time to sit down and do this note.  Last week was again a pretty quiet week. 

Tuesday was the radiation simulation at SLUH.  It took about an hour and a half.  They marked Jeff with blue and black lines.  Then he went to CT for a scan and the radiation therapist was there to get the scans they needed.  They think they have the blocks made and the numbers where they want them but Jeff needs to return on Monday afternoon for another simulation (only 30-40 min.).  They then hope to begin doses on Tuesday.  Dr. Roy will tell us the final numbers hopefully on Monday. 

Ken and I have set up a schedule we think will work.  We hope to get Jeff the first appointment at 8:00 AM.  That way maybe we can be back around 10:00 AM and Jeff will miss only the first 2 hours of school.  They are both computer classes so he can make those up easily.  Ken will go down on Mondays and Tuesdays.  I will go down on Thursdays and Fridays.  We will alternate Wednesdays.  That way we go 3 days one week and 2 days the next week.  

Jeff was able to attend school 4 of the 5 days this week.  He missed Tuesday, of course.  

We have started to notice hair growing on Jeff. His eyebrows especially are beginning to come in quickly.  So far they appear to be dark like mine.  His eyelashes are also coming in - so far short but sweet.  It's been a while since Jeff has had to shave so he complained the other day about facial hair - he had to shave every other day!!!   There is also hair coming in on his head.  The rest of the body seems to be a little slower.  

Next week, I hope to have some more information regarding the radiation.  Thanks for the continued prayers. 

Love, 

Marcia