Hello from Recovery central,
I have now had my first three chemo doses. So far I have tolerated it very well. As Clark explained in an earlier post I am on weekly reduced amounts of Taxol, as part of the study. This is to see if having it weekly is more effective than a larger blast every 3 weeks. So, so far so good. As an amateur at this process I do realize that the idea is as the treatments progress the toxicity builds, so the side effects will probably change. But for now it is so exhilirating to have something good to report.
Actually the drugs that they give to prepare for the Taxol seem to work very well and even give me a comfortable day on Fri. with good energy after my nap. As the week goes by about the worst so far is I do slip into some fuzzy fatigue times. Not tired enough to sleep, but not any umph to do much else. The Australian Open has just been my best buddy over the last two weeks. I do still love to play tennis, and was so lucky to be able to play 5 times a week most of the summer. So that’s a big healing, strengthening goal for me.
And now for the best news of all. My appetite has returned, and almost all of the food aversion is gone. This is a huge part of my healing, and so starting back from 34 lbs. lost, I have gained back 9. Because cancer is a wasting disease this is just critical to being able to fight back. So I’m sure you can tell I am more than elated. Thank you for checking in, it is comforting for me to know I can at least share the good news with you.
You are in my prayers and thoughts, as I know I am in yours.
Annie/Noel
noelstanton 
So happy to hear your appetite has returned. Keep fighting..you most certainly are in my thoughts and prayers all the time.
Marylou
Chocolate?? Yet?? Good news Noel/Annie. Thanks for the update. I know for an indisputable act that positive, healing energy travels from Canada to California.
Judy
So glad things are going well. Try that macaroni salad recipe if you want to gain weight! Thanks for the update.
Kathy & Jack
Noel, you are a resilient lady.
Good news Noel! Did you tune in for the that looooong game in Australia? Now, maybe some ice-cream??? Janet
Just checking in and happy to read that you are moving along with the treatments and so far, so good. Thinking of you often. Carolyn
Noel,
You are an amazing woman. I know God is with you, walking by your side during this crazy journey! Know my prayers are with you!
Lori
Good to hear from you Noel – and to hear that so far you aren’t having bad effects from the chemo – you continue to be in all of our prayers for a healthy recovery!
Love Kathy and Larry
Noel,
Greetings from two old USFers – Kathi and Joel. Gosh! You look so great in your picture! Kathleen Berkemeyer informed us of your situation. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers! I loved your Thurman meditation. We wish you a full recovery. You can do it!
Love Kathi and Joel
I am sooo happy for you Noel that you have your appetite and some good energy. Yeah!!!!i think of you and Clark often. I wish you nothing but love and peace as you continue this chemo journey.
Thinking about you Mom, your strength and resolve is amazing. So happy to know that your appetite is coming back! Talk to you very soon.
This is wonderful news, Noel. Here’s hoping you keep on gaining!
Molly
Dear Noel!
I am so happy to hear the good news! Congratulations on putting on those 9 POUNDS!
There are only a few times in our lives when we are elated to gain weight: Babies 🙂 and Recoveries! Also :)Good for you!
Any food preferences? I know we have guidlines as to what to cook for you but if you have any cravings just post them! I will be happy to abide when my turn comes! LOVE, Laura
Noel! You are making excellent progress. I miss you! Jule and I want to come hang out with you when you feel up to it. All is well on my end and Eric is settling in at Salesian. Don’t you worry about a thing. Tilly says hello. Love you and I’ll talk to you soon!!
-Adoria
Ann –
Wonderful – wonderful! Your appetite has improved and your spirit seems even stronger – recovery greats! Glad to know that tennis can carry you away to a place you need to go. So important to have that place. You really are an inspiration in so many large ways and small. Your meditation was what I needed and I thank you for that. I can just say those words and they change my day. The best to you and your buddy, Clark. Love you both.
Rozann and Jim
Noel,
This is such good news! Keep eating. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Clark, and boys.
Hugs,
Jacky
Noel:
We’re thinking about you – Glad to hear you’re doing well with the treatment. Our prayers are flowing your way.
Love,
Bill and Karen
You sound so good!
Keep putting on the weight. I have a few pounds I would be happy to send your way.
Keep us up to date.
Carmelita and John
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Hello Noel!
We were so pleased to read your posting last week and know that things are going well! All the gorgeous sunshine of late is in your honor!!
Our love, Laurel and Robert
Hi Noel-
Your blog is a wonderful way to keep track of you.
(I love the picture & graphics).
You are so articulate, honest and upbeat…..
an example for us all!
All the very best!
Jamie
Hi Noel
so glad to hear you are tolerating your drugs now and even gaining back your weight. I think I am eating for you, too!!
Your upbeat voice says a lot about how you are able to face your disease and give it a good fight. Keep up your spirits-your strength and stamina will return, too.
Love
Wendy Barbier
Dear Noel,
Judy Henderson told me about what’s going on with you. I am so sorry that you have to go through this mess. Just know that I pray for you every day. So glad that your latest news is good news.
Fondly,
Maryjo Reding
Well, der Noel. How are things going?
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Heard that a tablespoon of lemon juice in water is good for fighting cancer. This may be bogus. Check with your doctor. At least it won’t hurt.