Hi Ho, It's Off To Work He Goes!

Chad returns to work tomorrow. It is a bitter sweet day. While of course we are thankful and so blessed that things turned out how they have thus far, there is some fear that his job (which is 100% manual labour, he is a painter) will be too much for his body.

He still suffers from pain, which we assume comes from scar tissue - so God willing, he adjusts alright. He has admitted some fear or nervousness and I wish I had magic words to make everything okay. All he can do is give it everything he has, as he always does but not over-do it!

If you're thinking of our family tomorrow - please send up some positive thoughts for Chad's return to work!

Here's To 'Normalcy'

What does it mean to be 'normal' ? I know our normal has been entirely redefined since Chad's diagnosis but I am happy to report, God Willing, we may return to some sort of normalcy soon! And we shall enjoy it to the fullest!

Chad had lab work done yesterday here at the clinic about 35 minutes away. Today we traveled to Marion, Illinois to the VA hospital. All the blood work came back normal, Dr. V reviewed the previous CT Scans and everything looks good there. He will be forwarding the results to our specialist. Dr. Sardi for review.  Dr V did prescribe yet more medication for Chad to address his burn pain that he has been having in his waist-line area but other than that, things look great!

Chad still has cramping and the occasional pain but he has been cleared to go back to work in about three weeks - so we are thrilled!

He also went to see the dermatologist to get some moles checked out. There is a history of Melanoma in his family so considering what he's been through over the past six months, he was vying on the side of cautious. The dermatologist said everything looked fine and he wasn't concerned about anything! 

The most beautiful thing is, aside from blood work in three months - we will not have to go back to the VA hospital until December! (Provided nothing catastrophic happens) So let's have a toast, a cheer and a prayer to and for NORMALCY!

So, at the end of the day - I would consider this one a success :)

Sorry - Not Sorry?

Chad Enjoying Time With His Family!

Sometimes I feel bad for not updating this blog as often as I used to for those who actually still follow along - then I consider the reason I am not updating and it's probably a blessing for everyone :)

Chad is doing pretty good. The previous pain he used to have in his upper left quadrant seems to be much less severe and his eating is getting moderately easier. But as in life, when one thing gets better - something else gets worse. He now has that horrible burning along his lower abdomen/waist area again and a stabbing pain that radiates from his scar outward. He may have pulled a muscle or detached some scar tissue or something as a result of lifting something or moving a certain way, so we'll give it a few more days to see how he does.

But with all things considered - I think things are moving along. His dermatologist appointment and follow-up with Dr. V (oncologist) is next week - so wish us well! Praying his moles are nothing to be concerned about and his oncologist is able to reccomend further treatment to address his pain.

Our other big prayer is that he is cleared for work. I have mixed emotions because financially - we NEED his income. We are running out of money fast and there is no one left to ask for help anymore. On the other side, the very last thing I want him to do is cause himself further pain by over-doing it. God willing, Chad will be able to walk the line and get back to work without risking injury.

If anyone in Murray has a job that pays well - that doesn't involve heavy lifting and bending - holla! lol