picture time!

It's been a while since pictures have been posted, so we'll do a few tonight.

Gato Deluxe, the dude we can be mad at about all this cancer crap. He takes the abuse pretty well.

Sharon successfully completed her third session of chemo last week. It went smoothly, especially being the first session she did this round while NOT in the hospital. She was accompanied by Tim, a dear family friend Chuck, her daughter Kristina, Gato Deluxe (the ugly doll we're allowed to get mad at), her son James and daughter-in-law Currie throughout the day.

Chuck sitting with Sharon during chemo - offering stories and laughs.

Sharon's condition is extremely delicate right now. Because her digestive system is failing, she's having trouble processing any fluids or medications. She will continue chemotherapy as long as the benefits outweigh the ill effects. We are looking into home care and focusing on treating the painful side-effects of the tumor.

All smiles with her favorite daughter, Kristina.

Sharon is currently in the hospital in Asheville under close observation. She was admitted on Saturday because she was not responding and had overall lethargy. Because she began new medications after the chemo last week, the doctors are monitoring her medication and trying to narrow down the issues.

They sure are one cute couple!

Please, take a moment to reach out to Sharon & Tim either via phone calls or email. Sharon is receiving messages on her cell phone and every one she hears brightens are day just a bit more.

For those people living in and around Asheville who would like to visit with Sharon, please make arrangements with Tim. All the love and attention she can get will add to her quality of life and overall enjoyment.

in Asheville and moving right along.

Sharon and Tim arrived in Asheville on Friday afternoon. What a great way to start the weekend - snuggled at home, beautiful blue skies, crisp winter weather and the daphodiles beginning to sprout.

Kristina & Jake arrived on Saturday. Sharon has enjoyed the giggles and fun that Jake brings.

Because Sharon can't efficiently digest, it's taken a few extra days to pass the very strong narcotic, dilaudid, out of her system from the hospital. She has become more aware since returning home and is working on gaining strength.

At the moment, Sharon & Tim are at St. Josephs for a paracentecis (fluid removed from the abdomen). She has retained an uncomfortable amount of fluid as a side effect of the cancer. It's an out-patient procedure and she should be back home in the afternoon.

Tomorrow, Wednesday, marks the third dose of chemo this cycle. The plan is to arrive in Greenville for a 9:00 appointment, receive a 6-hour dose of one drug, and then take home the 24-hour pump for the second chemotherapy drug.

Valentine's Day 2008 was when Sharon had her first noticeably excruciating stomach pain. This Valentine's Day, we took a moment to reflect on the year past. It's been an amazing journey. We take one day at a time with the purpose of making it the best possible. Keep your positive thoughts flowing...

It's a good life!

Sharon is still at St. Francis after days of ups and downs. She plans to remain until at least Thursday when the new round of chemo is administered.

Sharon's in the hospital in Greenville. Last week, she had vomiting episodes that expelled some blood clots. Since she was on track to have chemo in Greenville this week, her oncologist recommended that she go ahead and head down there on Saturday.

A endoscopy showed no further damage or growth of the tumor. They are going to replace her stint which should help with the gastro issues. Chemo is scheduled for after the stint surgery.

Sharon is keeping strong and positive. All contact (emails, cards, voicemails) are greatly appreciated... keep them coming!

It's a good life!