CAT Scan Results

Just received great news regarding Teresa's CAT Scan on her chest, abdomen, and pelvic areas that was done yesterday. The report said that the lesions on the liver continue to shrink and nothing new showed up. This is in relation to her last scan in August. Dr. Gupta thought this is what the scan would show since the tumor markers had been decreasing but we wanted to know for sure. It will help us sleep better at night.

In regards to Bob, Teresa's dad. He got his Bone Scan results back today. A light spot showed up on his chest bone. He will now get an MRI in order to show exactly what is going on in that area. They are still planning to remove prostate in late January.

Thank you all for your thoughtful prayers. Please continue to keep us in your prayers as we battle the obstacles that have been placed in front of us. We hope that everyone has a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Make sure to time to enjoy your friends and family.

Dad's report

I know a lot of you that follow my blog know my parents, so I thought I'd post an update about his recent diagnosis of prostate cancer. My dad went to the doctor today to go over the biopsy report and next steps. He will get a bone scan by the end of the week. He will get surgery to remove his prostate at the end of January. They have confidence in his doctor and surgeon, so that is comforting. I think we are all just relieved to have a basic game plan. Hopefully, the bone scan will turn out okay and they can move ahead with the plan as scheduled. They will meet with his doctor next week to go over the results from the scan. I will keep everyone updated on his condition. Please continue to pray for our family as we deal with his cancer.

Another Bump in the Road

I wanted to let everyone know that my dad, Bob Denhart, was diagnosed with prostate cancer yesterday. He will meet with his doctor on Tuesday to get more details, treatment options, etc. Please pray for my family as we deal with this new bump in the road.

Nothing Serious

I just got back from my doctor's appointment in Lafayette. After a thorough examination, she determined I have pelvic support problems. She recommended physical therapy to strengthen the muscles that support that area. She seemed confident that the therapy would help relieve some of my discomfort. We are awaiting some test results, but feel that they will be okay. So in the mean time.... I should just grin and bear it! It is a good thing I'm tough :) Please continue to pray for us.

Always something.....

As some of you already know, my appointment with Dr. Gupta went well on Wednesday. My tumor marker went down to 185, which is 10 lower than 6 weeks ago. Of course we were thrilled with the news and want to thank you for lifting me up in prayer. However, a new issue has developed that we decided to share with everyone. I started having some female problems this week. I will go to my ob/gyn on Monday at 11:00. Hopefully, it is just tied to the removal of the ovaries and lack of estrogen which is causing the problem. Anyway, the nurse told me to just lay down or sit with my feet propped so I can get some relief. It seems like there is always something. I guess we are not supposed to get too relaxed around here. Please keep praying.

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. We felt very fortunate to spend time with our loved ones.

Being Thankful

I realized that we hadn't posted anything for awhile, so I thought I better give a quick update. I can't believe we are almost half way through November already. It seems like these weeks are flying by so quickly.

I am still feeling good and keeping busy with the girls. I was so grateful to be able to go trick or treating with them on Halloween. Kendal was a fairy princess and Rachel dressed up like a nerd. They looked so cute. We had a lot of fun!

Now we are starting to do our Christmas shopping. Neither one of my girls really had any wants this year, until I forced them to make a list. We also need to shop for Rachel's upcoming birthday. I can't believe she will be 12 in December!

I will get my tumor marker test at the end of next week. I will see Dr. Gupta on Wednesday, November 25 (Rob's b-day) to go over the results and next steps. The anxiety is already starting to set in. I just try to keep my mind busy, so I won't think about it too much. As always, we are hoping for good results but trying to prepare our minds & hearts if it is bad news. That is easier said than done.

I have been very emotional lately. I have good days and bad days. I have just been doing a lot of thinking about the future instead of just focusing on the present. I think all of the Christmas and Hallmark commercials have contributed to my mindset greatly:) ! I am still staying positive and so grateful for each and every day that I feel good. I will not let this get me down.

Please continue to pray for my family and me. Our strong belief in Christ and the power of prayer has gotten us through thus far. I feel his presence daily.

Great news!

We just returned from my appointment with Dr. Gupta. My tumor markers were 195. Yippee!!! That is such a vast improvement from March when my markers were 1,624. I have another 6 weeks off from chemo. I bet we all sleep well tonight! Thank you so much for your prayers and support. Please keep praying for us. It really does work!!

Still Waiting

I know a lot of you have been praying and waiting to hear about my test results. We have not heard anything yet. I guess we will have to wait until my appointment tomorrow afternoon. We will post the results as soon as we know. Thank you for your continued prayers.

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

Family and friends participated in the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk in Crawfordsville on Saturday. Team T raised alot of money for the American Cancer Society and for some local efforts to support women battling cancer. I was really proud of my team and appreciated everyone's support.

I have been feeling really good. I still get pretty tired as the day progresses, but other than that feel pretty normal. I thank God for each and every day that I can do my regular mom type of things. You don't know how special it feels to just do everyday things like running errands, cooking, taking care of the girls, etc. It makes you see things in a whole different light and so much more appreciative of life.

Next week, I get another blood test to check my tumor marker levels. My appointment with my oncologist, Dr. Gupta, is on Wednesday, October 14th. We will discuss the results and next steps at that point. Please pray for good results and strength to deal with whatever news we receive.

Thank you so much for your constant prayers. We feel very blessed to have such wonderful friends and family.

Cloud Nine

We are still on cloud nine that I don't have to get chemo for another few weeks. What a relief! It is great to have such a long break from receiving treatment.

My hair, eyelashes, and eyebrows are growing at a pretty fast pace. I laugh at myself when I look in the mirror, because the eyebrows look like a really bad make-up job. Anyway, I decided to quit wearing scarves on my head this week. I still do not have much hair, but have enough to cover my bald head. I don't look like Uncle Fester from the Addams Family anymore!

We had a wonderful Labor Day weekend. We were able to go to some cookouts and truly enjoyed our time with family and friends. We all had a great time!

Rachel's soccer season at Tuttle Middle School officially started on Wednesday. She is playing Sweeper (the person right in front of the goalie) and is really doing a great job. They are 1 - 1. She loves it!

Kendal's first soccer practice will be Monday. She is so excited to play. We are looking forward to seeing her in action!

Thank you so much for all of the prayers for me and my family. Please continue to keep us in your prayers as we wait for the next blood test in October.

Love,
Teresa

Making Strides Breast Cancer Walk

Visit our page to join our team or to contribute:

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Good News-Details from Rob

After being on pins and needles the last few days, today's appointment could not have come any sooner. I know how I get and I cannot even begin to understand Teresa's emotions. However, it was a huge relief when he told us that the CA 27-29 marker had decreased. It went from 320 in July to 215 today. Her calcium is also staying within acceptable range. It was 9.1 today along with normal liver functions, etc. As a result of the positive test results, there will be no need for any kind of chemo for another six weeks. She will continue to take the Femara daily. Dr. Gupta told us that his goal is for the marker to remain in check for several months. This is great news and we are thankful for all the prayers. There is no doubt that they have been answered up to this point. Please continue to keep all of us in your prayers. It is our hope that the cancer can be kept at bay and that Teresa can be the mom that she wants to be to the girls. Thank you again for all of your love, support and prayers. We are blessed to have you all in our lives.

GOOD NEWS!

I just got off the phone with Teresa. She got wonderful news. Her numbers had dropped (even without having done chemo in the last 6 weeks). She has no new tumors. She gets another 6 weeks (at least off) and then they will check her again. God is good. He told her to keep doing whatever she is doing. It is your prayers! Keep praying! Rob will send more info later...I just wanted to get this out ASAP! Yay!

CA 27-29 Blood Test for Tumor Marker Levels Tomorrow

I just wanted to let you all know that I am getting the CA 27 - 29 blood test done on Tuesday, September 1st. This test checks my tumor marker levels. We are praying that the results will show that there has been no major change since the last test I had done at the end of July. That would mean that the tumors are still contained in the liver and have not gotten any bigger. I meet with my oncologist, Dr. Gupta, on Wednesday, September 2nd at 3:20 to discuss the results and next steps. Please continue to pray for us, especially as we await the results of this important test.

I also wanted to ask for prayers for J.D. Taylor and his family. J.D. is an 8th grader at Northridge Middle School that is battling cancer. He was most recently diagnosed with inoperable tumors on his spine. Please keep this family in your prayers as they go through this tough time.

Sincerely,
Teresa

Back to School for the Ramey Family

A lot has been happening at the Ramey household the last few weeks. We went to King's Island for one last hurrah before school started. We had a great time and felt very fortunate to be able to go. Thank goodness for scooter rentals for me..... they help me get around on big outings, so I don't tire as easily. I've been feeling really good and always thank God for every day that I feel normal. I do get pretty tired and my legs feel like they weigh about 20 pounds each, but I'll take that with a smile. I'm so happy to be able to do my regular mom type of things. That's what I missed the most when I was feeling sick.

Rachel started 6th grade at Tuttle Middle School last week. She absolutely loves it and really likes all of her teachers. She is riding the bus this year to and from school, so she has to be ready to go at 7:10 a.m. That seems pretty early for us, but everyone is adjusting fine. Kendal has been getting up at 5:30 a.m. so she doesn't miss seeing Rachel in the morning. I told her she could sleep in a little later and still see her, but she doesn't buy it!!

Kendal has her preschool open house this week. She starts school next Monday. She will go three mornings a week. She is so excited about going to her school again. She loved it last year and learned so much.

Rachel starts soccer practice this week and Kendal should start her soccer practice soon. I am looking forward to watching them play. It will be interesting to see Rachel competing with seventh and eighth graders. It is a combined team of 6th - 8th girls. She is really excited about the upcoming season. This will be Kendal's first venture into competitive sports....... it should be a real hoot!!!

Please continue to pray for me and my family. Pray that my tumors do not grow and that the cancer stays contained in my liver. Pray that I continue to feel good, so that I can enjoy my family.

Thank you so much for all of the prayers and good wishes. I am very positive that is the reason I have been feeling so well. With God all things are possible. We are still praying for a miracle.

Love,
Teresa

Happy Anniversary Rob and T!

Happy Anniversary Rob and Teresa!

Six Weeks off and Praying for More!

Teresa had her appointment with Dr. Gupta on Wednesday. He said that the tumors in the liver had shrunk in size fairly significantly since she started the T.A.C. in March. As a result, he feels that it is best to give her body a rest. He has put her on hormone therapy (Femara). The drug is suppose to suppress the remaining 2% of estrogen that her body produces through fatty tissue. He will do a CA 27-29 tumor marker test the first week of September. We will meet with him on September 9th to see how effective the drug has been at keeping the cancer at bay. The goal is to keep the tumor marker reading in the 300 range. Otherwise, she will have to resume some sort of chemotherapy. Please continue to keep her in your prayers. We really feel that they are being answered and continue to hope that a miracle will occur.

Prayers Answered

Teresa just got off the phone with Dr. Gupta. Her CA 27-29 marker was slightly lower at 320. However, her tumors had reduced in size even further and nothing new had popped up. This is great news!! We will meet with Dr. Gupta on Wednesday, July 29 to get a plan of action in place for the next 6 weeks. In the meantime, we are going to enjoy the weekend with family and friends. Thank you all for your continued prayers. They are working!

Marker Test Results and CAT Scan

The trip to Orlando was very enjoyable. Not only did Kendal get to go to the Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom and Blizzard Beach for the first time, but Rachel played in the 10U AAU National Tournament at Disney's Wide World of Sports. Kendal enjoyed her time and Rachel's team played very well against teams from all over the United States. They ended up finishing 6th out of 24 in the classic bracket of division II. Overall, the girls went 3-4 for the 5 days. What makes this special is the fact that they only played with 6 girls. By the last game, they were exhausted!

We also got to spend a lot of quality time with Scott, Michele, Aubrey and Sasha. It was great being able to see them each of the 8 days that we spent in Florida. They went to the theme parks with us and to all of Rachel's games. Teresa got along well and really enjoyed her time. We rented a scooter and it was well worth the money. The long walk to the sports complex and the walk around the theme parks would have been too much for her. Not once, did she ever get too tired or have any cold sweats at night while sleeping!

Please keep Teresa in your thoughts and prayers over the next 24 hours. Today, she went and got the blood test done for the CA 27-29 marker. Tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. she gets the CAT Scan done. Hopefully, we will get good news that the tumors have shrunk. She does not say much, but I know that she is starting to get a little anxious. It is our hope that she will get the results before tomorrow evening. That way, we do not have to sit on pins and needles the whole weekend.

The Ramey's Go to Disney World

Post Chemo Update

Please keep Teresa in your thoughts and prayers. She is going through her worst period of time after the chemo on Monday. She is experiencing the drastic changes in her body that make her break out into a cold sweat. In addition, she is very restless and has no appetite or will power to drink anything. Hopefully, she will start to rebound by mid-day on Thursday. It is tough watching her go through this but we can only hope and pray that the chemo is continuing to do its job. I know that she wants an extended break from any chemo. She told me on Monday when we were leaving the cancer center that she hopes the next time she is sitting in the chair that there is snow on the ground. So, pray that she gets good results back from the CAT scan at her visit on July 29. Good news will give her at least 6 weeks without treatment. We continue to be grateful for all the love and support that we have received.

Today is Chemo Day

Please remember to keep Teresa in your prayers today and this week. She goes in for chemo today at 10 and then will be recovering from it this week. Pray that the chemo goes in and attacks the cancer and that she recovers quickly and that she's not nauseated. I'll keep you posted as I get updates.

Summer Update

Everything at the Ramey house has been going well. Rachel recently spent 4 days at a team camp with the varsity, junior varisty, freshmen and middle school teams from C-Ville. She played approximately 15 games in the 4 days and came home very tired. It was a great experience and she really enjoyed herself. Kendal is the same ornery Kendal. She continues to keep things exciting around the house. She participated in gymnastics during the month of June. However, she says that she does not want to do it anymore. So, we will take July off and maybe give it another shot in August.

Teresa has been doing great. The mouthwash for her sores worked wonders. In addition, we are going to get the prescription filled for Emend. This is the anti-nausea medicine that she started with the last treatment. It seemed to help in her recovery. She has been enjoying the girls and the weather. Please keep her in your prayers as she prepares for her last round of treatment for this cycle. Hopefully, we will get good results on Wednesday, July 29!

We hope that you all enjoy your 4th of July weekend!

Doctor's Visit

Doctors visit went well today. She has developed sores in her mouth. So, Dr. Gupta gave her a prescription for that problem. Hopefully, it will help ease the pain. We were also able to get her CA 27-29 marker test and CAT Scan scheduled. She will get the blood work done on Thursday, July 23 and the scan done on Friday, July 24. She will have an appointment with Dr. Gupta on July 29 at 1:40 to discuss the results and plan of action. If the tumors have continued to shrink, he will put her on an anti-estrogen hormonal therapy. He explained that even with her ovaries out, her body still produces a small percentage of estrogen from the adrenal glands and fatty tissue. If this is the route she is able to take, she will be tested every 6 weeks to check on the tumor marker. So, we are hoping and praying for good results on July 29. That would mean no chemo in the immediate future and her body would get much needed recuperation. She was very appreciative of all the birthday cards, wishes, etc. that she received last week. They were a definite boost to her spirits. Please continue to keep her in your prayers. They are working!!

Friday Night Excitement

As you all know, T. had chemo last week and usually doesn't feel well until later in the week or even into the weekend but Friday night, she literally ran two doors down to our house (just in case we needed to head to the basement) because we were under a tornado warning. Poor thing, it took all the energy she had to hustle down here as rain was coming down, trees were blowing and the thunder was rumbling but she made it and just laughed as she walked into the house. We had a nice little unplanned visit, the kids had a little playtime and then they headed back home. She was feeling much better as of Friday night and even better, altough not great on Saturday. Keep praying for her and her family!

Happy Birthday, Teresa!

Join with me in wishing Teresa a Happy Birthday!

If you have pictures of Teresa, please email them to me and I'll add them. bcsaunders@accelplus.net

Doing well

I just talked to Teresa and she said she slept well last night and is feeling okay this morning. She's resting and her girls are in Cincinnati until tomorrow evening. The anti nausea meds seem to be working. Tomorrow is typically her "bad" day so pray that she doesn't have one this time. Please keep praying for healing and recovery!

All Went Well

Teresa called a little after 5 to report that all went well today with the chemo. She has a different anti nausea pill this time that is supposed to work really well so hopefully it does and she can bounce back quicker than she did last time. Keep praying for the Ramey family!

Send Teresa Happy Birthday wishes

Although Teresa likely won't feel much like celebrating her birthday next week, I would like to encourage you to email her, mail her, leave a comment on this blog or write on the facebook wall to wish her a Happy Birthday and a speedy recovery from chemo. Her birthday is Wednesday, June 17th.

Chemo on Monday

Please be praying for Teresa as she prepares to have chemo this Monday. Pray that the effects are minimal as she has been hit harder each time. Pray that the chemo continues to work against this cancer!

The Latest on T. (from Rob)

I know that a lot of people are concerned about Teresa and it has been awhile since anything has been posted. Anyway, Teresa is doing much better since the end of last week. We met with Dr. Gupta on June 3 and he is going to give her a new anti-nausea medicine for the next round of treatment that takes place on June 15. He also feels that her recovery time will take longer with each additional round of chemo. Last weekend we got the chance to attend Teresa's 20th class reunion in Covington. This was such a great boost to her attitude. She loved being able to see and talk with a lot of old childhood friends. Things will be "normal" this week. Hopefully, I will be able to take her out for a nice dinner this week in order to celebrate her 38th birthday. Her actual birthday is on June 17. However, she will be down and out from the chemo.Please continue to keep her in your thoughts and prayers. If you did not know that she was battling stage 4 cancer, you would not know it by looking at her. She is a fighter and is keeping a very positive attitude.

Pray for Recovery

Teresa is still recovering from last Tuesday's round of chemo. She is still not feeling great. Normally she has bounced back by now but this time it hit her particularly hard. Please lift her up in prayer today that God gives her strength, rest and recovery.

Chemo Today

Please be in prayer for Teresa as she has chemo this afternoon at 2pm. Pray that the chemo continues to attack the cancer, that she can rest this week and not be sick. Pray, pray, pray!

Update on Marker Numbers (from Rob)

We met with Dr. Gupta this afternoon and have received more good news. The CA 27-29 tumor marker came back at 376. This is down from 1624 prior to the start of T.A.C. He also said that all of her tumors have shrunk by approximately 40%. So, this is great news!! We had several other questions for him. First, was how many more treatments with T.A.C.? He told us that she would get 3 more. He really feels that we will continue to see the tumors be reduced. He made it clear that there will be other options once the T.A.C. is over. In addition, he said that he will be able to use T.A.C. again in the future. Furthermore, he said that even without complete elimination of the cancer that drugs could be used to keep the cancer from growing back at a rapid rate. One thing is for sure, we will rest a little better with this news. Teresa said that she just felt that she could breathe better as we walked out of the cancer center. I am sure it felt like the world had been lifted off her shoulders. It is hard not to get too excited because we know things can change at the blink of an eye. However, we know that all the prayers are being answered. Please keep praying for things to go in a positive direction and that the next 3 treatments will be as effective as the first 3. There is no doubt that our prayers are being answered and thank you all again for your prayers, thoughtfulness, etc. We are thankful that each of you are a part of our lives!

Marker Test

Please be praying for Teresa as she waits for her marker test results to come back. They are anticipating the numbers will go down since the tumor(s) have shrunk. Please pray for this to be the case. She thinks she will get the results on Wednesday when she meets with Dr. Gupta.

Some details on Teresa's good news

Dr. Gupta left a message for Teresa last night with some details on her tumors. The smaller tumors are still there and the larger tumor had shrunk significantly from 14.8 cm to 8.5 cm. Great news! Keep praying for them to shrink to nothing!

GOOD NEWS!!!!! (from Rob)

Finally, we have received good news. Teresa talked to Dr. Gupta and her CAT scan looked good. The chemo is getting rid of her cancer. The report stated, "definite decrease in size of metastatic regions." So, you could not ask for a happier group of people than the Ramey household. We know that we still have a huge battle to fight, but for right now we are going to enjoy the good news. Thank you all for your prayers! It is obvious that they are working. Please continue to keep Teresa in your thoughts and prayers. She will get the blood test on Monday that shows the CA 27-29 marker. Hopefully, it will show the same thing that the CAT scan showed. She will meet with Dr. Gupta on Wednesday, May 20 @ 3:40 p.m. to see how many more treatments, etc. I wlll let everyone know as soon as we find out.

Thanks again for all of your prayers!! Also, please keep Whoo Hoo (Grandma Betty) in your prayers. The doctors are trying to get her high heart rate under control.

CAT scan Tomorrow

Monday morning, T. is scheduled to have a CAT scan to see how the chemo is doing in treating the cancer. Remember to pray for her around 10...that the cancer is GONE!

Also, pray for Rob's Grandma Betty (Woo Hoo) as she is having some issues with her heart and is in the hospital now. Pray for peace and comfort as the family deals with her not feeling well and pray that she gets better soon.

Keep praying!

Pray for Rest-Update from Rob

Just wanted to let everyone know how Teresa is doing. The treatment went fine and she did not get tired on Monday until it was time to put the girls to bed. So, it was nice that she spent the evening doing the normal routine. She slept pretty good on Tuesday night. However, since she had dry heaves with the last treatment the nurse told her to take a different anti-nausea medicine. As a result, the new medicine has not allowed her to rest as comfortably as she needs to. She was up a lot more yesterday afternoon and did not sleep well last night. The good thing is that she is not getting sick but she needs the rest and is not getting it.

Please pray that her body adjusts to the new medicine and that she gets the needed rest. Without rest, she will not be able to do what she wants to do in terms of keeping up with the girls the next few weeks. Also, please pray that the chemo is doing its job. She will have a CAT Scan on Monday to see how the cancer is reacting to the chemo. We are preparing for the worst but hoping for the best.

Thank you all for prayers and concerns! I have said it before but we are blessed to have such wonderful friends and family members.

Good Weekend, Gearing up for Chemo tomorrow

Teresa had a good weekend as she traveled to Columbus, IN to watch Rachel play in the AAU State Tournament. They also celebrated Kendal's 4th birthday. She is tired this morning but enjoyed her weekend so it was worth it.

She is slated to have round #3 of this chemo tomorrow at 2pm. Remember her in prayer as she prepares for chemo, as she has the chemo and then for the rest of the week as she feels the effects of the anti-nausea meds. Pray that this chemo is working to kill the cancer. Pray for the family as they go about their activities yet continue to care for T.

Other than losing her hair, Teresa's physical condition has not visibly deteriorated. Most times you would not even know that she is in this battle because she seems so well. I thank God for those good days and pray that they continue for a long time.

Weekend Recap from Teresa

I asked T. to recap her weekend as she went to Rachel's basketball tourney. Following is by T.:

We had a great weekend. Rachel's b-ball team finished 4th in the AAU Regionals and gets to go to the state tournament in Columbus on May 2nd & 3rd. I really enjoyed watching her play. She was a little tired and banged up, but other than that came away injury free. She never sits out....... it makes me tired just watching her!!

I felt fine all weekend and feel blessed that I was able to make the trip. Kendal stayed in Covington with my parents on Saturday and then went with us to the games on Sunday. She thinks she is such big stuff hanging out with the girls from the team! None of the other girls have younger siblings, so they give her all kinds of attention. We feel lucky that Rachel has such nice girls from great families on her team. It makes the games so much more enjoyable.

Update from today's appointment

Here is the info from today's doctor's appointment: Dr. Gupta thought that Teresa's body is responding well to the treatment. He is basing this on the fact that she has had no adverse effects from the T.A.C. So, it was decided to administer one more round of chemo. He said he felt it would be a better indicator of how the cancer is responding to the treatment. He felt that she could handle waiting because her condition has not visibly declined. In addition, her calcium is staying in check and she is still pain free for the most part. So, she will have chemo on May 4th as scheduled. A CAT scan is scheduled for May 11th and the blood test for the CA 27-29 marker will be the following week. We (me in particular) want results a little faster just because it is hard not knowing. However, we have faith in Dr. Gupta and know that he is the expert.

We continue to be amazed at the number of people who are praying for us and doing whatever they can to help. Please continue to keep all of us in your prayers but most importantly shoot some extra prayers up for Teresa. Pray that the treatments will slow down the cancer and keep it at bay. I have said it before but Teresa continues to amaze all of us with her strength and courage. She is remaining positive and continuing to be a great mom to the girls. We are all blessed to have her in our lives and we are going to keep doing whatever it takes to keep her around.

Sunday Update

Good Sunday afternoon all,

Just wanted to send out a quick update on T. She started feeling better on Friday. She was no longer feeling nauseous or drowsy and could stop taking her meds for that. She sat outside in the beautiful sunshine and watched Kendie play. She stayed home Saturday from Rachel's tourney so she wouldn't overdo it. She had a relaxing, restful day at home alone. Today she is feeling good, slept well last night and is going to Rachel's tourney this afternoon.

Keep praying...specifically that the chemo is attacking her cancer!

Keep Praying for T.

Hi guys...just want to give an update of what I know. I haven't really talked to T. much this week but have talked to those taking care of her. She's really tired and feeling a little more nauseous this time than last. Please pray that this subsides SOON. Last round she started feeling better Thursday p.m. or Friday a.m. so pray that this is the case this time; that she starts to feel better TODAY!

Heading to Chemo

Just wanted to send out a reminder to be praying for Teresa as she is getting ready to have chemo around 2pm today. Pray that this chemo works! Pray for minimal (no) side effects and pray for strength and patience in facing the weeks ahead.

"Holy Similar...

I didn't want all that hair on my bench." Those are the words that came out of Kendie's mouth as Teresa blew dry her hair the other night and it was falling out in clumps.

Teresa called Rachel in to play beautician. She handed her the scissors and Rachel cut Teresa's hair into a short do. Teresa and Rachel got a good laugh as Rachel gave her sideburns. Teresa was fully prepared to lose her hair and okay with it. No tears, just laughs and fully understanding that this is part of it.

Another light moment was yesterday. Teresa was wearing her wig and Becky, Woo-Hoo, Shelby and Riley (Rob's mom, grandma, sister and her daughter) came to visit. Kendie pulled off Teresa's wig and told all to look at her mom's hair. They all got a laugh out of that.

T. said Rob shaped it up last night with the clippers. Kendie came home this morning from Covington and couldn't stop laughing at her mom's hair. She kept telling her she looked funny. Nothing but laughter when Kendie is around.

So as of April 9, 2009 T. has officially lost her hair. Her wig is so cute and without a wig, she looks cute. It is the least of her concerns though.

The Ramey's have had a rough week. They have had to attend two funerals of two young family members. One of Rob's cousins and one of Teresa's cousins. Please keep those families in your prayers. Other than that, T. is feeling good.

She is one of the best if not the best mom's I know when it comes to making holidays fun. She is good at decorating and makes even dying eggs special for her girls. She was off to Walmart to do some Easter shopping when I talked to her today.

I have to remind myself that she is still very sick because she seems so good. She looks great, she acts fine. She never complains. The only thing I ever hear her say is that she's a little tired. What mom doesn't feel tired at the end of the day? Especially a mom of an active 3 year old (almost 4:)

On Monday at 2pm, she will have her second round of this new chemo. Please continue to pray for her and the rest of the family as they gear up for another round. We need to pray that the chemo is working. It will be a couple of weeks after this chemo that the doctor will do the marker test to see if it is working. Pray, pray, pray!

Have a blessed Easter!

T. had a good weekend

I got this email from Teresa tonight:

Weekend went well! I just got tired in the evening. I especially enjoyed watching Rachel play 3 games of basketball and both girls in the swimming pool on Saturday. I got an opportunity to rest up today because Kendal took a 2 hour nap. I feel pretty good given the circumstances. Just please continue to pray for the chemo to work! I will have a blood test for the CA 27-29 in approximately three weeks. Dr. Gupta wants my body to react to the next treatment before he does the test.

In addition, please pray for the families of our two cousins that we lost this last weekend. Nathan Allen, age 21, was found dead on Thursday in his apartment. Chad Simmons, age 26, was killed in a car wreck on Saturday in Parke County. These two were way too young to die.

Going to Louisville

Please keep Teresa and family in your prayers this weekend.  Teresa was feeling pretty good yesterday and this morning and looking GREAT!  She got new glasses yesterday and they are soooooo CUTE!  Pray that she stays healthy this weekend, that the chemo continues to attack the cancer and that they all stay safe and enjoy themselves.  Rachel is playing in a basketball tourney down there.  Just keep praying!

Reminder

Prayer Meeting today...see info in sidebar.

Teresa better; Calcium okay

Teresa was feeling better this morning. She wasn't as tired as she was yesterday and her cold symptoms seemed to be getting better. She had her calcium checked as a precaution and it was 9.9 which is good. Keep praying.

Keep Praying for T.

T. doesn't have chemo this week but I want to remind you to keep her in your prayers. She is feeling pretty good but she does feel like she is coming down with a cold. Pray for this to go away. Rob is on Spring Break this week and they are planning to go to Rachel's tournament next weekend. Please pray that Teresa is strong enough and healthy enough to go too. Keep praying!

Team T. T-shirts

If anyone is interested in purchasing a Team T. shirt, let me know. There were a few left over from Friday night. The cost is $8 (unless we have to mail it to you). bcsaunders@accelplus.net

Team T. 2009

Relay for Life 2009

Teresa Gets the Mail

For those of you who check often...Teresa just walked to her mailbox to get her mail. She looks great! Love seeing that!

Feeling Better

I was excited to hear Teresa's voice this morning. She sounded normal. She said she stopped taking the anti-nausea meds which make her so drowsy yesterday and feels good. She was getting her appetite back too. She's hoping to be on the upswing now and hoping to stop by the Relay for Life tonight where we are walking in her honor. Pray for continued strength and healing.

Teresa Update

Teresa is doing okay from Monday's chemo. She has been sleeping almost around the clock the past few days. She is staying awake longer today and gaining some strength and energy to sit up for awhile. Pray that the drowsiness subsides and that she does not get sick and that the chemo is working. I just really want to keep her fresh on your minds and give you an update even though it's not much info. Thanks again for all of your prayers and please continue to pray.

No Nausea; Just Tired

Yesterday, Teresa slept most of the day as they told her she probably would due to the medicine to prevent nausea. She did not feel sick though so that is good. Her side effects should be subsiding tomorrow and hopefully she will feel well enough to enjoy the weekend. I think Rob is on Spring Break next week. Pray for her side effects to subside quickly and that she has good days while she is off from chemo. Pray that this chemo is working!

Teresa's Chemo today

Teresa sounded normal tonight although she said she was getting tired. The way this chemo is different is that she has to take more anti nausea medicine which causes her to be drowsy. Her doctor told her that she would probably feel tired and nauseous for about four days. She is being well taken care of this week by sister in law, Sharon.

Pray:

1. for this chemo to get this cancer.
2. that she doesn't have the side effects (or at least as badly as predicted)
3. for this chemo to get this cancer!
4. repeat 1,2 and 3.

Pray that this chemo works!

Good morning all,

I asked T. this morning if she had any special prayer request for today and she responded, "just that this chemo works". She said that she can deal with the fatigue, nausea and other side effects of the chemo, but she really wants it to work. Please pray for her as she has this chemo at 2 pm today. Pray that the chemo works!

Get ready for Monday

Teresa is feeling well today. Perhaps coming down with a cold but other than that, feeling good. She had a blood test today to check her calcium and it came back that it was at 9.5 which is the lowest that it has been since she found out about the cancer.

Okay, I can't tell you how much your prayers for T. have uplifted T. and family. You have all been wonderful in showing your support over the past few weeks. Starting this Monday, Teresa will be having the chemo that her doctor is calling the "big guns". In other words, this is the last resort as far as chemo goes. SO NOW MORE THAN EVER, SHE NEEDS YOUR PRAYERS! Pray that this chemo is effective in treating this cancer; Pray for a miracle in healing. Pray that the side effects are minimal. Teresa is feeling good. Her doctor is amazed at how well she is doing. She says it has to be your prayers. Please, please, please pray for her!

Yesterday's Appointment with Dr. Gupta from Rob

We left the doctor's office with mixed emotions on Wednesday afternoon. The good news was that Dr. Gupta is optimistic in regards to how Teresa's body will respond to the "big guns". He told me not to get too wrapped up in the CA 27-29 tumor marker. The goal is to get it to go down and remain stable. He mentioned that he has a patient whose marker is in the 200 range and has remained stable. So, I felt better after hearing this news. I was thinking that it had to get in the normal range of 35 or less. The next blood test to check the marker will be in 6 weeks. This will be after two rounds of treatment. He also believes that the removal of the ovaries will be beneficial in the fight. The depressing news is that this chemo is the last defense in fighting the cancer. In other words, the chemo will not be as effective with future recurrence if we are able to get through the 1st battle. We can only hope and pray that the chemo does it's job and the cancer does not flare back up in the liver or other area of her body. The goal is to buy her time. Please continue to keep all of us in your thoughts and prayers. Especially, keep Teresa in your prayers as she begins the new chemo on Monday afternoon. I have heard the following words used to describe the way in which she is battling this ugly disease: grace, courage, and strength. Her attitude and disposition are amazing. Thank you to all of you! Your cards, gifts, prayers, etc. have been a big reason for her attitude. It is not fair and it is not right. However, we are not going to dwell on the negative! Rob

Prayer Meeting Today

Reminder:  Weekly Prayer Meeting today at the Women's Ministry Center at 10 am.

Chemo on Monday

Teresa was feeling much better today. She was able to get outside to watch the kids play on this warm and sunny St. Patrick's Day. Although she wasn't wearing green so we pinched her:) She's still a little sore but she was in pain from laughing so that was nice to hear.

She will meet with Dr. Gupta tomorrow afternoon and discuss her future treatments and questions that she and Rob have come up with.

Also, she got her chemo schedule. She will begin the "big guns" on Monday at 2pm. She will have this for about 2 1/2 hours and it will only be once a week every three weeks. Strong stuff that is likely to knock her on her behind and this type will cause her to lose her hair. She's anxious to get started though especially now with the ovaries out. Dr. Gupta is hopeful that her body will respond well to this chemo. Let's pray it does!

All in all, she's having a good week. Sister in law Michele arrived and brought Florida weather with her:) Happy Birthday today to Michele. She is providing excellent care for the family.

Relay for Life

This year we will have a Team T. in Montgomery County's Relay for Life. We will be walking in honor of Teresa and raising money for the American Cancer Society. Please consider joining us as we walk or giving to the team in honor of T.

Click here for the Team T. Page

Monday Morning Report

Typically at this time on Monday morning, we are praying for T. as she is having chemo but she is taking this Monday off because of her surgery last Friday.

She is recovering slowly but surely. Her pain is subsiding and she is getting up by herself now. She is really just resting and healing. She said she is having mild effects of menopause but nothing major. She said it is tolerable so hopefully that's all it will be; a few mild hot flashes.

Her mom is with her now and her sister in law, Michelle is coming in today to spend the week with her.

She meets with Dr. Gupta on Wednesday around 2 to discuss the next plan of action which is the more intense chemo.

Please continue to pray for her healing from the surgery, pray for a miracle in that the cancer is cured and for rest and peace in this situation.

T. Post Surgery Report

Teresa made it home yesterday afternoon. All went well with the surgery. She did not sleep well in the hospital and yesterday she didn't feel well at all. She was tired and in a lot of pain. Her pain meds were taking the edge off of the pain but causing her to be wired and not able to rest well. Pray for her pain to subside and for her to rest comfortably.

One more update today

maybe more if needed...all went well. She is awake and groggy. Little bit of a sore throat. They are going to keep her over night just because it is late in the day. They did a calcium check and it was normal. Yay!!! So now we need to keep praying for her healing. This surgery will send her into menopause. So as if she didn't already have enough going on, now she has to deal with that. But she is not complaining. She is willing to do whatever it takes to beat this. She's a fighter and she has a lot to fight for. She has strong faith. She has people from all over the world praying for her. She's ready to face the next step in treatment and healing head on. So keep praying!

Surgery is over

All went well. She'll be in recovery for a couple of hours. No word on whether or not she'll get to come home tonight.

In Surgery Now

Teresa went into surgery at 1:15. Pray that this removal of the ovaries will help in stopping the cancer.

Surgery today

Today T. will have the surgery to have her ovaries removed. It was originally scheduled for 4ish this afternoon at St. Vincent's in Indy but they called and moved it up to whenever she got there. She left around 10. Pray for all to go well.

Don't be Discouraged

As we were given discouraging news yesterday, it is important for us to keep the faith and to not be discouraged. Teresa and family needs us now more than ever so I am asking that you continue to pray for a miracle in healing for Teresa.

Today she is not only trying to cope with yesterday's report, she is preparing for her surgery tomorrow. As of 7 am this morning, she cannot eat (other than clear liquids). Her surgery is not until tomorrow afternoon. The hours ahead are going to be long and painful as anyone who has prepped for a surgery knows; the process is not a fun one. I ask that you especially lift Teresa up today and tomorrow as she endures the pain of this process.

Please pray that she stays positive and encouraged. Pray that her strength is not knocked down by this surgery. Pray that she remains healthy otherwise. Pray that her calcium does not go dangerously high. Pray for Rob and the girls. Pray for the friends and family who love her so dearly.

I would like to encourage all of you to send her a note of encouragement. Leave a comment, write on the facebook wall, send her an email, send her a card. Let her know that you are thinking of her and praying for her.

This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

Latest News Regarding Tumor Markers

Teresa just got off the phone with Dr. Gupta. The conversation was not what we were hoping for. Her CA 27-29 report came back and her marker had increased from 1300 to 1600. He basically said that the Taxol was not doing its job and he was going to pull the big guns out with a strong regiment. So, beginning 7-10 days after surgery on Friday, she will begin with a combination of drugs that he called T.A.C. The T.A.C. will be given once every 3 weeks. Obviously, we are all upset about this news. She has been feeling good and we were hoping for a better report. Please keep her in your prayers. Tomorrow at 7:00 a.m she will start prepping for ovaries being removed on Friday. At this point, we can only hope and pray that the new drugs will work more effectively than the Taxol and that her body can withstand the treatments. Rob

Part 2 of Prayer Devotion

Here is the second part of the prayer devotion. Click here.

No Wednesday Prayer Meeting This Week

Devotion on Prayer

I felt led to share my devotion for today. It was on prayer. Click here to read.

Calcium is Creeping back up

I just got a report from Teresa. She is still feeling good. She just finished her treatment this morning however, her calcium has crept up from 9.6 to 10.6. It has been about every two weeks that it gets near that critical 14-15 level and the end of this week will be the end of the two weeks. She is scheduled to have her surgery to remove her ovaries this Friday so we need to be praying that the calcium level does not go up.

In other news, she will not have the results of the tumor marker blood work until the end of Wednesday.

Pray for her to rest well today and for that calcium to go down and stay down!

Teresa is doing well

I thought I would let you know that Teresa has had some great days. On Thursday, she picked up Kendie at school. Then on Friday, she took Rachel to and from school. She sat outside while the kids played. She was up and about and feeling really good. Rachel had a basketball tourney in Salem yesterday. She was not sure she was going to go but decided that if on Saturday morning she felt as well as she did Friday then she would go. She did go to the tourney. As of last report Saturday afternoon, she held up well during the day and was glad she went.

Remember to pray:

• for her calcium to stay down
• for the blood test tomorrow to show that the chemo has been effective
• for her to continue to feel good
• for good rest and sleep
• for her to stay healthy

Latest News from Rob

We have had a busy two days with the visits to the doctors. However, we are pleased with where we are at. First, Dr. Gupta listened to our questions and gave us some answers.

1. Calcium was at 9.8. He is a perplexed by what is causing it to rise. Feels that it should go down with treatment. Will run additional tests if it rises in the future.

2. Duration of the treatments will be for as long as they are working and as long as her body can tolerate them.

3. Her white blood count is responding well to treatment. Dr. Gupta told her to get out and about. She does not have to worry about wearing a mask or anything.

4. He is helping with her sleep by adjusting her medicines. Especially, the steroids that she takes before chemo. He feels that they are causing her the problems on Monday nights.

5. We asked about the frequency of treatment and the perception that he is treating aggressively. He explained that with just Taxol and Avastin this is considered less aggressive. He said that aggressive would be two or three more types of chemo. With the additional chemo, she would have more severe side effects and the final outcome would not change.

6. Teresa asked about experimental treatment with crystals. He told us that is not out of the question, but that will be after the chemo stops having any influence.

7. On Monday, she will get a blood test that is used in checking the tumor markers. Hopefully, it will be below the baseline figure of 1300. If it is lower, that means the Taxol and Avastin are doing the job.

8. He explained that on weeks that she only receives Avastin she will feel better. The Taxol is the chemo that causes the fatigue, etc.

Doctor visit #2 = Thursday with Dr. Sutton, gynocological oncologist. He scheduled her to have her ovaries removed on Friday, March 13. This will have a positive affect because it will stop her from producing the estrogen which the cancer is feeding off. It will also send her immediately into menopause. The procedure will be done laparscopically. She has to go through the whole cleansing of the digestive tract beginning on Thursday morning. So, Teresa is not looking forward to the discomfort that will cause. In addition, she will spend the night in the hospital and be out of commission for approximately 2 weeks. She understands it is a necessary procedure. However, she is not looking forward to it at all. Dr. Sutton explained that she will not be able to take Avastin for a least one and probably two rounds. It has something to do with how Avastin chokes the blood supply to the damaged area and they want to make sure her incisions heal. The positive is that some doctors only remove the ovaries and do not give Avastin. So, it will not cause a major setback in the long run.

I know that I have said it before but we want to thank everyone for their continued prayers. It is our hope that we can get the cancer to stop growing and begin to shrink. It is our understanding that it will never totally disappear and the chances of spreading are high. We just want to get it under control so that she can get back to as "normal" as life as possible. The girls are tough kids but they miss their mom being her normal self. The love and affection that has been shown is overwhelming to us. If it has taught me anything, it will make me more of a giving person from now on. Like Joyce C. said this week, "God never gives us anything that he does not think we can handle."

Rob

Yesterday's Appointment

I talked to Teresa last night and here is what she gave me as far as info.

• Calcium was down in the 9 range which is good.
• Next week she will only have the Avastin so she should feel good next week.
• Her WBC is not a concern and he told her that if she felt like it, to do whatever. Obviously avoid being around sick people but not to worry about going to the store or ball games.
• Today she picked up Kendie at school for the first time in weeks.
• Today she is meeting with Dr. Sutton in Indy to discuss the surgery to have her ovaries removed.
• Next week, Dr. Gupta will do a test that will see how the cancer is responding to the chemo. That will be our big prayer for Monday!
• He's pleased with her response to the chemo, physically. She has not been sick.

I will hopefully get more of an update from Rob later today when they get back from their appointment with Dr. Sutton.

Calcium is down; more info. tomorrow

Heading to an appointment with Dr. Gupta

Please be in prayer for Rob and Teresa this afternoon around 2:30 as they have an appointment with Dr. Gupta. They have a list of questions that they hope to get answers for regarding Teresa's diagnosis/prognosis. Also, please continue to pray that her calcium levels drop. She was pretty upbeat today and felt pretty good when I talked to her earlier.

No Fever Through the Night

I talked to Teresa's mom this morning. Teresa did not have a fever through the night. Thank you for your prayers. She did not sleep great but is resting now and will hopefully sleep today.

Today's Chemo-Calcium Update from Rob

I know a lot of people have read the blog today (thank you, Carrie S.), but I thought I would give an update. The morning started out with some great news. Her white blood count was above the cut off. However, her calcium was very high again. Terri, the nurse, talked with Dr. Gupta and he ordered Zometa. So, Teresa was able to get the chemo and the Zometa. We were lucky that Terri could dispense Zometa. Otherwise, we would have ended up at the hospital. We know if we went to the hospital that they would have admitted because of the critically high levels. Anyway, Teresa is at home and resting comfortably. We will have to keep a careful eye on her health. Last time she got the Zometa, she got a high fever. Terri told us that even knowing that she had that reaction last time, we still had to call if she gets a fever of 100.5 or higher. We also have to make sure that her heart does not start racing or if she starts to get any other symptons from the high calcium. That is what is so weird. She did not have the symptoms of high calcium and Dr. Gupta told us the chemo should kick in and help with the problem at her last appointment. Just thankful that we requested the calcium be checked. We are quickly learning that you have to be an advocate for yourself. We meet with Dr. Gupta on Wednesday at 2:30 p.m. We will probably get her blood checked prior to the appointment to make sure the calcium is lower. On Thursday, we meet with Dr. Sutton at 2:00 p.m. He is a gynocological oncologist and will talk to us about getting her ovaries removed. By the removing her ovaries, all estrogen production will cease. This will help in the fight because estrogen is feeding the cancer.We know that you have to prepare for the unexpected and for every two steps forward, you take one step backward. We lucked out that she got to have chemo today. Please pray that the chemo starts to have the positive effect on the calcium and the cancer. We truly believe that all the prayers are working. We are blessed to have wonderful family and friends in our corner.Thank you!Rob

Getting Chemo

Teresa is getting chemo and the doctors are trying to figure out how to get the calcium level down. The medicine that she gets each time this happens is supposed to last a month and so they can't give it to her again. They'll have to get it down another way. Pray it down!

White Blood Cell Count is okay, but...

her calcium is high again. At 14.3. They are starting the pre-meds to do chemo but are waiting to hear from the doctor to make sure. The nurse thinks they will go ahead with chemo. Will update as I know more. Pray for that calcium to go down!

Teresa's E-mail Address

Many of you have left comments for Teresa on the blog or on Facebook but some have asked about sending her a private note. With her permission, I am putting her email address on this blog and on facebook. She does read her emails, the blog and the facebook pages so I encourage you to send her notes of love and encouragement in whatever way but please know that she may not respond until she is feeling better. Thanks for your love and support of this wonderful family. Her email address is teresa.ramey@sbcglobal.net

Teresa

Prayer for T.

Dear Heavenly Father,

This morning as I woke up, as usual, one of the first people on my mind was Teresa. Lord, I thank You for keeping her fresh on my mind and here and now, I want to lift her up to You. First Lord, I thank You for being who You are. You are the God who created us, You know every thought, You hear every word; nothing is hidden from You. You know our pains, You know our sorrows. Most of all You love us, You forgive us. I come to You Lord with Teresa heavy on my mind and heart. I pray that You heal her. I pray that You make her strong in body and in spirit. I pray for her white blood cell count is at the perfect level for her to be able to get chemo in the morning. Let us not be discouraged if it is not. We know that You know what is best for her.

I pray for Rob, that You give him strength. Encourage him, Lord. Lift him up. Give him peace, patience, and calm through this situation.

I pray for Rachel. This is such a tough thing for a girl her age to go through. Keep her mind set on Your good and perfect works. Let her see Your love by the people loving and praying for her mom.

I pray for Kendie. Please continue to give her that spark that makes us all laugh and smile. Help her to sleep at night, help her to be good.

Be with T.'s mom and dad. Give them hope, encourage them, give them strength. This has to be so hard for them to see their daughter go through; wrap Your loving arms around them and lift them up.

Lord, I lift up the rest of the family; especially Teresa's grandmother, brother, Rob's parents, Rob's grandma and Rob's brothers and families; lift them up, encourage them, give them strength, rest so that they can effectively minister to Teresa.

Lord, we know that You are good and that You are good all of the time. We don't understand why this has happened to one that we love so much but we put our faith in You to take care of her. We ask for a miracle in healing. We thank You for giving her the peace that only You can give. We are thankful for her relationship with you Lord because without that, we would have no hope. Thank You for hope and thank You for the gift of eternal life through your son, Jesus.

In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen.

Prayer for the weekend

As you head into your weekend, please remember to pray for Teresa and her white blood cell count. It needs to be above 1.6 for her to be able to have chemo on Monday morning. She will have a blood test Sunday night to determine the count. Keep praying as she is feeling your prayers!

As you pray

As people have prayer meetings and prayer lists, I thought it would be good to brainstorm all of the specific prayer needs for this situation and that way people would know exactly who and what to pray for. And as the needs change, I will update the list. I am risking forgetting something or someone in doing this so I am asking you to call me or email me with additions, changes or updates. The list in the sidebar is what I can think of off the top of my head. I will keep it in the sidebar and update it as needed.

Teresa plays a not so funny joke...

This will make you smile. The Ramey's and the Saunders' have a love-hate relationship with IU and Purdue. We love IU, they love Purdue. We are constantly playing jokes on each other and making comments about one another's team. This morning, Teresa called down in a disguised voice and said she was Sandy from Tom Crean's office in Bloomngton. She asked if we knew of anyone who could suit up for the Hoosiers. Sandy said they had invited the managers to play but they weren't sure if that would be enough. In case you don't know the story, Tom Crean is suiting up one of his team managers for the Hoosiers' final game. HA, HA, HA!

Recap of the Prayer Meeting

As I said in the earlier post, there was a prayer meeting led by Debbie Froedge (which is meeting every Wednesday and anyone can attend) for Teresa and family. Here is a summary of what they prayed for:

• Rob, this hardship and for his spiritual life.
• The girls
• T's parents
• Her church family
• T's mother-in-law and how hard this must be for her watching her son go thru this with his wife
• that we would all be used
• any of T’s friends who are around her and are not saved; that T would be bold and witness to them

T is at peace with this and it was just comfort for me to find this out. She is not afraid to die. We thanked God for the earlier breast cancer which I believe now, prepared her for this time.

Debbie

The Father's View

Yesterday, Debbie Froedge led a group of women in prayer for Teresa. They used this devotion as their basis:

In the message "Cut The Lifeboats" we were encouraged to cut away those areas of our life which still cling to the world's answers for fulfillment and security - those areas which keep our hearts from being fully devoted to God. But at the same time, we acknowledged this can be a difficult process. One reason for this difficulty is our extremely limited view of our life and the world around us.

Our flawed perception is not unlike a tiny ant. These small creatures seem to never stop working as they scurry about frantically moving little grains of sand from here to there in the hope of building a secure home. If we could ask an ant to describe his world, he might tell us about his hole in the ground, about the few thousand members of his family, and maybe something about the few surrounding meters where he gathers food. Obviously, the ant has a very limited view of the real world.

But as our Heavenly Father watches us build our homes of security - watches us frantically moving from here to there, trying to climb to the top of the hill - He also sees a creation with a VERY limited view of the real world; "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts" (Isaiah 55:9).

As seen from God's perspective, we have almost no understanding of how the little corner of our life fits into His plan or how our current problems are leading us closer to Him. From God's perspective our view is as limited as the ant. But, though we may not fully see or understand, He is calling us to trust.

Proverbs 3:5-6
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."

Many of us are facing difficult circumstances. We want to walk along God's path and live a life pleasing to Him, but we're not sure which direction to turn. Our indecision is often because we only trust in what we clearly understand - and we've begun to realize our understanding is not very clear. But God's promise is that as we love and trust Him with all our heart, the path directly in front of us will become straight - as we trust, the decisions will become clear and we will KNOW our next step!

We must truly believe that our Heavenly Father sees and hears ALL, and that He's infinitely complete in understanding. Where we are fortunate to see a few short steps down the path, He sees the entire journey - the journey leading us "to be conformed to the likeness of His Son" (Romans 8:29), and the destination of spending all eternity praising His name. We must keep stepping out in faith, but we must do so by leaning on Him, continually seeking His direction, and trusting the Father's view.

Finally got some sleep...

Just wanted to post a quick note updating you on T. She finally got some sleep yesterday and slept last night. She sounded perky this morning and said she felt pretty good. Please continue to pray for her to get stronger, for her white blood cell count to stay up and for her to heal and get rest.

More Details from Rob

We were at the center for approximately 5 hours. The filter on the Taxol was a little stubborn and made things go a little slower. However, everything went very smoothly. The Benadryl caused her to be overly excited. So, she has not really slept during the day. We asked about her not getting the Benadryl but it is neccessary with the Taxol. The big thing is for her white blood count to not fall below 1.6. Today, it was at 2.3. It will no doubt go down with today's dose of chemo. We just hope that it does not fall below that magical number. If it does, she won't get chemo on Monday. In addition, she also becomes very vulnerable to any type of illness as the count drops because her immune system is basically wiped out. We will go out to the hospital on Sunday to get her blood test. The nurse will get the report first thing on Monday and let us know if it is too low to come in. She explained that they are treating the cancer very aggressively and it is not uncommon for the white blood count to drop on day 15.

Teresa continues to amaze me with her strength and courage. She has kept a positive attitude throughout the last 4 weeks. She understands that we cannot change what has happened and is not dwelling on the negative. Please continue to keep her in your prayers.

Rob

Pray for the White Blood Cell Count to stay up

Teresa did well with the chemo today. She will have a blood test done Sunday evening which will indicate her white blood cell count. We need to pray that this stays up so that she can have chemo again on Monday.

So...Pray that:

• her white cell count stays up
• that she does not get sick from the chemo today
• that she gets her strength and energy back quickly
• that she stays healthy (no cold, flu, etc.)
• that she rests comfortably at night and during the day

Hopefully Rob will email me more details later so I can be a little more detailed. Keep praying!

Prayer Meeting Info from Debbie Froedge

We will begin the prayer meetings for T this Wednesday at 10 am at Fab All. We will meet weekly. You are welcome to bring scriptures, but you don’t have to. If you cannot attend in person, please pray with us each week during that time. We will plan on beginning our prayer time by 10:15 to wrap up around 10:45 or as God’s leads. Then be all wrapped up by 11. If you need to leave earlier that is fine, just stop by for a bit. If this time doesn’t work, we are flexible and can change it until we get a time that works for the most people.

Fab all is located on old oak hill road – across from the church on the left – I forget the name? sorry. Go past froedges, turn left and you will see the building on your right. Go in the door on the south side –

Call my cell if you have questions or reply to logcab@in-motion.net

Debbie Froedge

Gearing up for Chemo Monday

Teresa had a nice weekend with her family. Rob's dad turned 60 and she attended a dinner for him over in Indianapolis. She said she felt good and that it was nice to get to spend time with everyone.

Tomorrow is the big, "Double Down" day for T. She will get her second round of Taxol in addition to getting her first dose of Avastin. She is scheduled to start at 9:20 a.m. The treatment should last about 4 hours. Pray for this medicine to be effective in treating this. Pray for strength for Rob and Teresa along with the rest of the family. Pray that everyone stays healthy and that all of the medicines don't make her sick. Pray that she bounces back quickly after getting the treatment. Pray, pray, pray!

If you are on facebook, make sure you sign up for the Chemo Monday event which is just committing to praying for Teresa tomorrow especially.

Good Friday to you!

Teresa is feeling much better today. Seems to feel better as each day passes as far as feeling the effects of the medicines. She'll be resting up this weekend to go at it again with the chemo on Monday morning. Pray that she has a nice, uneventful (no hospital visits), weekend with her family and that she is strong and ready to battle on Monday. I'm going to do another chemo Monday prayer event on Facebook so if you are on Facebook, be sure to "attend" and if you are not on Facebook, remember to pray for her before, during and after chemo on Monday!

Nothing much to report

I'm sure many of you check in to see if there is any news for the day. I'll try to post something even if it it just says, T is tired or T feels good today just so you can follow along in this journey. I talked to her on the phone and she did not sleep well last night but felt that it was because of some of the medicine. She is planning to rest today with nothing on the agenda. She has family coming in for the weekend and staying through next week to help. She did go to the doctor yesterday and was told that she will have chemo again on Monday. This time she will get both chemos (click here to learn more). I think her appointment is at 9:20 on Monday morning. She was also told that she will not get much of a break from chemo; that they will likely give it to her weekly. Pray for strength for Teresa and pray that the chemo is effective quickly. Keep praying!

The day after chemo

I just wanted to give you a quick update on Teresa. I just talked to her on the phone and I saw her earlier today. She had a little trouble sleeping last night as she felt a little jittery from all of the medicine. She did sleep most of the day today and is feeling pretty good. She has not felt nauseous at all and has her appetite. She also said that Rob said her color looked good.

In other news, the insurance approved the Avastin which is the strong chemo. She can start that next week. She does not know yet which day she will get it next week.

She meets with Dr. Gupta tomorrow at 3. Be in prayer for them at this time. She also has blood work drawn tomorrow to check her calcium levels. Please pray that these are in the normal range.

As you may or may not know, her immune system will be affected by the chemo so it is crucial that she not be exposed to colds, flu, etc. Please keep this in mind if you are planning to visit her. Thanks!

Chemo is over for today

Teresa did okay with the chemo today. She just feels very tired from all of the medication. Please continue to pray for healing as her body reacts to the medicines. Please keep the entire Ramey/Denhart family in your prayers.

Some answers

I talked to Rob around 11:30 a.m.. Teresa had just gotten started with chemo around 11 and was doing okay; a little drowsy but not sick. And they had gotten some answers regarding the insurance so thankfully the weight of that had been taken off of their shoulders. Keep praying!

Heading to chemo then home

Teresa's fever went down and she will start chemo as scheduled. She will then be released to go home. I'll update as I get info. In the meantime, thanks for your prayers and please keep praying!

Fever is down

Prayer by Rob and Teresa's Pastor (Dr. John Van Nuys)

Dear Lord, look with favor upon Teresa and Rob. Shelter them through this terrible passage unto a brighter, better day. Grant Dr. Gupta and all of those who attend Teresa 110% success. Banish completely and forever all that afflicts Teresa physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Grant Rob your deep peace and strength beyond strength. Shelter young Rachel and Kendal with your steadfast care. Surround this family with every grace and answer speedily, completely, abundantly every prayer and need they have this day and always. Trusting in your mercy, power, and love, I ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.

Prayer Meeting

Anyone interested in meeting once a week to pray for Teresa, contact Debbie Froedge at logcab@in-motion.net. I would like to figure out the time that works best for the most people. Of course everyone would be praying on their own throughout the days and weeks, months to come, but I feel it would be beneficial to pray together in person. I think it would also help each of us to come together in person to support one another as we seek how to best serve Rob and Teresa during this time of trial.

Pray Teresa's Fever Down

Teresa had a fever of 102.5 when we were visiting her at about 7:30 tonight. We need for this to go down so that she can get her chemo in the morning. Please, please, please pray her fever goes down.

Thank you!

Levels are Dropping

Quick update from the Ramey's:
Teresa's calcium levels dropped from 14.7 to 11.7. 10 is the high end of normal. The doctor was amazed that it had dropped that much. Teresa attributed it to your prayers:) They were able to treat her much quicker this time as Teresa, aka Dr. Ramey, knew exactly what she needed. They are going to keep her all day and night and make sure that she's good and hydrated for her chemo tomorrow morning. Please continue to pray for them as they endure this unexpected visit to the hospital.

URGENT PRAYER REQUEST FOR T.

I just got off the phone with Rob at 8:20pm. They are at the St. Clare ER. Teresa's calcium level is at 14.7 (very high) and they are admitting her to flush her with IV fluids. Please pray for the levels to drop!

Let's Pray T. Up for Monday

Monday is the big day. Teresa will start chemo around 9 am and go for 1 1/2-3 hours (depending on the medicine). I would like for us to lift her up for the whole day. From 6 am to 6 pm (before and after too), please pray specifically for the following:

• for Teresa and Rob to be calm.
• for the medicine to work effectively.
• for the paperwork/insurance/biopsy to be done/settled so that other chemo can be administered.
• for good health
• for Rachel and Kendal to be calm, patient and understanding
• for Teresa to have no ill effects to the medicines.
• for family and friends waiting.
• for God to work a miracle in healing.
• for the peace that passes all understanding!

**You don't have to sign up for a specific time; just pray for them throughout the day**

Please keep Teresa fresh on your mind especially Sunday and Monday but also through the week as her body reacts to the chemo. If anyone has any other items to add to the list above, please email me at bcsaunders@accelplus.net

Thank you so much for taking time to pray for this family!

Chemo on Monday!

Teresa will start chemo at 9am on Monday. She will only get the Taxol because until the pathology report is in, the insurance will not allow them to use the Avastin. Pray that the insurance company receives the pathology report soon so she can start both medicines. Also, pray that she has a restful weekend prior to starting and that her anxiousness about starting chemo is minimal.

Details from Today's Appointment

This is a message from Rob that explains today's appointment with more detail:

Teresa is ER/PR +. This means that he will not have to treat as aggressively. Still waiting for pathology report from last week in regards to whether she is HER 2 +/-. This will determine how he utimately treats her. If HER 2+(which he believes it will be), he will treat with Taxol and Avastin. She will get Taxol one time a week and Avastin one time every two weeks. He said that the first time will take approximately 4 hours. After that, a single dose will take 1 1/2 hours or both at 3 hours. Dr. Gupta also said that she should not lose all of her hair.

There are a couple of philosophies for treating. He can go at it very aggressively or more gently. Either way, the results are the same over the period of time. As a result, he wants to keep her quality of life at a decent level and will treat more gently. He feels that she will be able to enjoy and spend time with the girls and not be down and out with this approach.

When asked about long-term prognosis, Dr. Gupta did not give us any indication. He said that every patient is different. He did say that, "We are not backed against the wall." She will have her ovaries removed once she gets into the treatment. This will help reduce the estrogen which the cancer feeds off of.

Please continue to keep all of us in your prayers. We know that they are being answered. We need to remember that there will be set backs along the way. However, we feel blessed for every piece of good news that we receive. Keep praying that she responds well to treatment and can beat the odds!

Update from Today's Appointment

No new news as far as the prognosis. Still zeroing in on the liver only which is good and chemo will begin this week or next. They ran into an insurance snag so that is the hold up. Pray that the paperwork moves through quickly so that she can get going!

Appointment Today

Please keep Rob and Teresa in your prayers this afteroon as they meet with Dr. Gupta.

Scans

Teresa received good news this afternoon in that the MUGA scan and PET scans both came back normal indicating that only the liver is affected. They are still waiting for the pathology report to come back from last week's liver biopsy. Once they receive that, they will proceed with a treatment plan. Keep praying!

Thank you from the Ramey's

Rob asked me to pass this along to all of you:

We want to thank everyone for their prayers and support over the last two weeks. We are very fortunate to have such wonderful family and friends. In addition, it has been very moving to know that complete strangers are praying for her recovery. Teresa is in for a huge battle against a terrible disease. However, she can beat it! Her faith is strong and she knows that she has everyone in her corner.

Please continue to pray for us as we go down this difficult road.

Rob

Recap of Friday

Teresa's scans went well and she got her port in. She is very sore so please pray for her pain to subside so she can rest comfortably this weekend.

Link to Devotion

Here is a link to a Max Lucado devotion that was sent to me today. Click here.

What is in store for today?

Today Teresa will be having a MUGA Scan and a PET Scan. She will also be having her port put in for her chemo.

Prayer Chain Schedule

Thank you for taking the time to pray for Teresa and her family. Below is the schedule. If your name is not on it and you contacted me, please contact me by email so I can add your name. I was pulling info from different places so I may have lost some in the shuffle. As you can see, the response was great so please keep them in your prayers especially during this 24-hour period. Here are some things/people that you can pray for:

• Teresa for healing, strength, peace, rest
• Rob for strength, understanding, peace, rest
• Rachel (11)and Kendal (3) for patience, understanding, strength
• Teresa's mom and dad-Mary Elaine and Bob Denhart
• Rob's mom, Becky
• Rob's dad, Mark and Step-mother, Deb
• Grandmothers of Rob and Teresa
• Brothers and Sisters, in-laws of Rob and Teresa
• Dr. Gupta
• Members and Friends of Rob and Teresa from Wabash Avenue Presbyterian Church
• Pastor John Van Nuys
• Friends and family of Rob and Teresa and girls
• Western Boone staff

Here are some verses to pray:

Strength:

• 1 Chronicles 16:11-Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always.
• Psalm 28:7-The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to him in song.
• Isaiah 41:10-So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
  

Healing:

• Isaiah 58:8-Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard.

Comfort:

• Psalm 119:50-My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.
• Isaiah 49:13-Shout for joy, O heavens; rejoice, O earth; burst into song, O mountains! For the LORD comforts his people and will have compassion on his afflicted ones.
• 2 Corinth. 1:3-Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort

Psalm 139-click here to read

Friday

12 PM Steve Kinkaid, Niki Hutson, Janis Knecht

12:30 PM Kelly Stanley, Jim Heinzman

1 PM Amy Huff

1:30 PM Pat Hearson, Kerry Dunham

2 PM Heidi Myers, Helen Gers

2:30 PM Kristen Carpenter

3 PM Melissa Bishop Wise

3:30 PM Marabeth Gonzcarow

4 PM Kathy Case, Jennifer Whitely Kirts

4:30 PM Gail Merriman, Phyllis Boswell

5 PM Cindy Stevens, Brian Saunders, Jan Middleton

5:30 PM Kim Warren

6 PM Jason Wheeler

6:30 PM Jen Brunty

7 PM Annette Nydegger

7:30 PM Becky Howerton

8 PM Carrie Saunders, Corrin Fitzwater

8:30 PM Beth Waddell, Stacey Brock

9 PM Bonnie Hopkins, Karen Cushman, Debbie Froedge

9:30 PM Michele Ramey

10 PM Jene Anne Pendleton, Stefanie O'Donnell and family, Cathy Crosby

10:30 PM Dana Dyson, Nancy Irvin, Julie Hobson

11 PM Wendy Wagner, Jill Capper

11:30 PM Sondi Eden

Saturday

12 AM Jordan Roseboom

12:30 AM Betty Munro, John Downey

1 AM Heather Chaney

1:30 AM Marlene Saunders

2 AM Joani Stetler

2:30 AM Alyssa Powell

3 AM Jeannie Stevens

3:30 AM Janet Heinold

4 AM Susie Ehrlich

4:30 AM O'Nealya Gronstal

5 AM Debbie Byrer

5:30 AM Kristi Ross

6 AM Kathryn Schueren, Joanie Menard

6:30 AM Jacque Hudson

7 AM Nicki Reimondo, Kasey Hoffman

7:30 AM Erica Minnette

8 AM Mary Whidden, Carrie Saunders

8:30 AM Julie Baird

9 AM Rob Hunt

9:30 AM John Van Nuys

10 AM Sharra Badgley

10:30 AM Becky Ramey, Molly Whitecotten

11 AM Nancy Cox

11:30 AM Thoma Downey, Cathy Norman, Cammie French

1 PM Carla McMurry Claycomb

How did we get here?

At the risk of messing something up, I'm just going to be brief in telling how this came about. I don't know specific dates or specific procedures but here is what I know as the timeline:

• January 2007 diagnosed with breast cancer
• April 2007 surgery to remove breast
• November 2008 checkup was ALL CLEAR; numbers, results fell into the low end of normal
• January 18-19, 2009 went tubing at Paoli Peaks, stayed at French Lick, felt fine, had a great time
• January 26, 2009 (noonish)went to the doctor because of strange taste in mouth, felt tired but felt like maybe had a flu bug.
• January 26, 2009 had blood tests done, hospital called and required admittance because of high calcium levels in blood. Needed to be hooked up to IV to flush that out.
• January 27, 2009 focus became liver which appeared to be enlarged.
• January 28, 2009 released from hospital; just had to keep drinking water to keep calcium levels down.
• January 29, 2009 Dr. Williams called and requested they come out to his office to discuss results of liver biopsy.
• January 29, 2009 it was confirmed cancer in the liver.
• January 30, 2009 diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer in the liver.
• February 2, 2009 got a second opinion from Dr. Gupta. Decided to go with him.
• February 3, 2009 had MRI and liver biopsy
• February 4, 2009 brain scan (MRI) showed all clear