Chemo update

Yesterday Joe went to Strong and had an echocardiogram to ensure that his heart is healthy enough to withstand the chemotherapy treatments. All came out well there - his heart is strong and healthy. We all know that his heart is large and giving. Now we need to get the rest of him that way! He received 2 units of blood in an attempt to try to get his counts high enough so that he can handle the chemotherapy treatments. At this point, Dr Kohli does not want to proceed until his blood counts rise. Thanks Bill, for taking him yesterday - Joe ate well yesterday - rivaling Tom in his calorie count!

Today Joe is going back to the radiology department for a consultation with Dr Chen to have a few radiation treatments on his back as he is experiencing a lot of pain in that area. The radiation will not be curative, but perhaps will relieve some of the pressure from the tumors and give him additional pain relief.

Friday at 4 pm we will consult again with Dr Kohli to see if Joe's blood counts are high enough to proceed next week with the chemo. I pray that he is strong enough to withstand it. He wants to try it - wants to fight - we need to get his body to come to the party!

Thanks mom, for the money that you sent to us - we appreciate your generosity. Thanks also to Linda and Tony for the generous gift that you sent to us as well.

Joe's friend Brian Geer is a magician who has been wanting to have a benefit for Joe to help us financially as we continue to travel to Houston for Joe's care. My sister Toni along with a host of friends is working on the Martuscello March against Cancer. While we are just in the planning phase, I pray that Joe will be well enough to continue to travel to Houston and allow Dr Amato the time he needs to help us. If this benefit does not happen, please know that we are so grateful for everyone involved in helping us generate the funds to continue to fight. Words cannot express our gratitude and love for your continued never ending support.

Patty - I am adding the quote you sent to me yesterday. Thanks for the inspiration.

If, when faced with the bad, when told everything is futile, you can still look up and end the conversation with the phrase... "yeah....BUT.." then you still have hope. Never lose hope

We will never lose hope. For it's hope and faith that is getting us through each day. All of the prayers that are being said for Joe, the support and love from our family and friends, the support that I get at work here every day from Chuck, Tam, David, Jeanne, Yvette, Julie, Danielle and each of my peers and employees - it helps me to go on yet another day. Your love and concern has made a big difference in guiding us through the journey that we are on. Thank you. I hope, someday, I can repay the generosity and support that has been given to me tenfold.

Embrace every day - life is precious.

With love and continued hope,
Vicki, Gina & Tom