Saturday, December 29, 2001

Update # 21 

Happy Holidays, 

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas.  We had a great day.  Jeff rolled his new bowling ball around the house most of the time!  They drilled the holes in it yesterday so he finally used it normally last night. 

We enjoyed our few days break from radiation -- especially the sleeping in part.  Wednesday we began doses 8 - 14.  Dr. Roy is keeping the blocks the same on the lungs at 50% radiation.  He is still pleased that Jeff is really feeling no side effects.  (Jeff does talk about a dry mouth some but no major problem if he keeps water with him.)  Dr. Roy ordered a CBC on Wednesday so we stopped by Costas to have that done.  Most counts are in the normal range.  The white count is still low but that was to be expected.  Thursday was a regular "zap and go" day.  We even got there early since traffic was way down.  Friday all of us went down to SLUH for radiation but mostly for the party at the Costas Center.  Mike Matheney from the Cardinals and Joe Buck, an announcer for the Cardinals, were there.  Jeff had already met Mike Matheney when they shared a dressing room for that November fashion show.  Jeff did not get an autograph then so this was a great opportunity.  Mike even recognized Jeff!  Joe and Jeff sat talking for a few minutes and when Joe found out Jeff is going into communications, Joe invited Jeff to the announcer's booth during one of the Cardinal's home games!!!  Jeff was pleased but was thrilled when we were getting ready to leave and Joe caught Jeff again and recommended a time period when he should come.  Of course, we got pics and autographs of both Mike and Joe.  We even had Mike sign our book from the fashion show. 

Most of the week was pretty quiet.  Christmas Eve morning, Mom and I were rear ended in the car on the way to the store.  We weren't hurt and the car doesn't have much damage.  We are getting it fixed since Jeff will be buying it this spring to use for college.  Wednesday after radiation, Jeff and I did some shopping so he could spend  Christmas money.  That's about all that has gone on around here.  

Tomorrow, Jeff turns the big "18"!!!  (I think we're doing more shopping then also.)  This year has been one of shock, ups and downs, but mostly blessings.  We couldn't have gotten this far without all your prayers.  Have a truly Happy New Year and I'll send a new update next year. 

Love,

Marcia