Last day of IL-2 this treatment schedule!

Today marks the last day of IL-2 for this 8-week schedule! Joe will have 2 weeks off before we go back to Houston for his re-staging.

Joe has unfortunately formed a blood clot in his right leg up near his groin. He has to wear surgical stockings to bed at night and keep his feet raised fairly regularly during the day. Unfortunately he has to have 2 shots of Lovenox daily. Thanks, Marsha, for helping me out last night.

"Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) refers to a blood clot embedded in one of the major deep veins of the lower legs, thighs, or pelvis. A clot blocks blood circulation through these veins, which carry blood from the lower body back to the heart. The blockage can cause pain, swelling, or warmth in the affected leg. Low molecular weight heparin (Lovenox) is a newer option for treating DVT at home. This form of heparin is given twice daily by injecting into your skin. The pharmacy dispenses the drug in prefilled, easy-to-use syringes"

So just when Joe thought is was safe to get away from injections for 2 weeks - something else has reared it's ugly head! We will be watching this very closely to ensure that travel to Houston on the 15th will not harm him.

He also will begin getting Procrit in a few days for his anemia. Unfortunately, this, too, is injectable. Since it's a deep muscle injection, it won't feel good. Good news is that it does not have to be administered daily, but weekly. Also good news is that he is not supposed to move too fast, so I'll be able to catch him pretty easily as I chase him around with needles and patches of alcohol!

Today is the first actual game for the Spencerport Varsity soccer team! They won their scrimmage against Pittsford Sutherland on Monday. Keep your eyes on #23 - Tom - as he makes his debut today in Hilton at 3 pm! Joe and I will be there in our Ranger colors. Even Cameo is a Ranger pup - she wears blue and gold to the games!

While the weather here in Rochester will not be conducive to a picnic, we want to wish everyone a safe and relaxing Labor day weekend!

With today the first of September we are inspired as a new season is upon us. New life, renewed spirits and hope for a positive outcome in Houston for Joe, regression and positive therapy for Scott Anderson and a therapy choice for Mrs Cassarino to help her on her journey.

"Hope sees the invisible, feels the intangible and achieves the impossible"

With continued Hope and Love,
Vicki, Gina & Tom