I don't know where you are while reading this... but our weather is FABULOUS! It's one of those perfect days that you just want to spend every minute outside. I love it!

We saw Dr. Barlogie today. We want to share all we know with you, but just a warning ~ this will be a long entry.

When we were here last, the disease had shown up in 35 new lesions. One of our prayers is that things wouldn't progress in the 2 weeks we were gone. We were happy to fnd out that the PET showed only 34 lesions. I guess he left one in Europe! However, the ones in the spine and pelvis did grow in size. Some of the other markers have increased, but nothing alarming, and not unexpected.

Dr. Barlogie wants to give Frank a 9 drug regimine. For the ones that love detail....
The treatment is BEAM + VTD + Rapamycin + Cisplatin. What is all that, you ask?
It's BCNU, Etopiside, Ara-C, Melphalan, Velcade, Thalidimide, Decadron, Rapamycin, and Cisplatin. All these drugs work a little differently to act on a different stage of cell reproduction. Giving all these will enable the cancer cells to die at each stage of their growth. Sounds good to us!

His heart functions came back with no change from 2006. That was good news. That means his heart has handled all these treatments really well. Of course, we can all look at him and know that! We don't need fancy tests to tell us Frank is strong.

Our hope was that he get started today. But of course, we have to wait on insurance approval. The manager over insurance came to talk to us. I guess you say she was good at her job because she talked to us for a while and she was very kind and friendly. But after she left the room, we realized she wasn't giving us great news, but we didn't realize it until after she left.

She said we were really lucky to have gotten the coverage we've had so far. Many other companies don't cover 5 stem cell transplants. This will be his 6th. She said it would have to be called a transplant (even though sometimes calling it a boost is a more favorable way of getting approval) and we just have to wait and see what they said. It could take 3 days or so. If we didn't want to wait, we could sign this little piece of paper that says we will pay for all of this if without insurance approval. She was so nice and friendly.......

So.... we are waiting. And are resting in the knowledge that we are where we need to be. And God will take care of us. Just as He always has, and we trust Him to always do. Please join us in this prayer.

The kids are with us. That has given me a great deal of peace in the decision we made about school. I was having my doubts a few weeks ago. The change isn't easy, but that doesn't mean it wasn't best. But now that we are all here together, all the planning has come together. We are glad that part has worked out like it has. Chandler is training for a half marathon. Zach has been enjoying the free time, although he misses his soccer team. Chase is going with the flow. We told him he's really in night school, because I work with him after I get back from the hospital with Frank. He's got the mornings off.

Psalm 33: 20-22 Our soul waits for the Lord, He is our help and our shield.
For our heart shall rejoice in Him, because we have trusted in His holy name.
Let Your mercy, O Lord, be upon us, just a we hope in You.

Frank has the only cell phone with coverage. Me and the kids have no bars at all in the apt. The local number is 501-225-6971.

We'll let you know something as soon as we do...... here's Frank......

My Little Rock days have been a whorl-wind experiance for sure. I arrived in Little Rock Monday around 1:30 and walked right in to the test lab. Blood work, EKG, PET scan, ECHO, MRI, Bone Marrow biopsy, and to wrap it all up I entered an apple bobbing contest. I would of won to but Zach pushed me in the tub.

Day one and two were just stacked with appointments but all very well managed. Hats off to the staff of UAMS, a tightly run ship for sure.

There was one incident of sorts. On Tuesday, I engaged the driving services of Zach Carlton to deliver me to the bone marrow biopsy room. He was happy to drive and eager to watch the proceedure, being that he aspires to be a surgeon one day.

Well all went pretty much as planned. Dad arrived on time, got assigned a room, went in and dropped his pants, got draped and then hopped up on the table. Ryan, the tech, inserted the needles and started screwing the corkscrew device into my hips. Like I said everything was going along pretty well....they started chipping away some bone fragments, and then it was bone marrow pull time. Once they started puling the marrow, ol Frank tensed up for the pain and Ryan the tech started drawnig it out. No sooner than the first RED tube was pulled Ryan's assistant yelled out, "hey we have a problem".

Yep, Dr Zach had started sweating, turned a cold shade of gray, and was sliding right out of his chair onto the floor!

They had to stop messing with me to get some assistants in the room and put Zach on a bed in the next room. Ryan and I were laughing so hard that we had trouble finishing our pulls.

Zach came out of it after some crackers and juice, but we were worried about him for awhile.
He came away from the experiance with a new appreciation of "procedures" from a patient perspective. Seeing his dad in pain didn't sit well with him.

I love you too, son!

Switching gears....

We're home! Amazing.... exciting....fabulous.... we could go on and on about the trip.

Frank will post his favorite pictures and we will share more later, but for now, we are trying to shift gears quickly and ignore the jet lag. We were welcomed at the airport around 10:30 with mom and all 6 kids. It was wonderful to just hear their voices and be able to hug everyone. We got to bed around 1am after trying to stay awake all night on the plane. (some of us did better than others).

Frank has to be in Little Rock by noon today. We already have a new apt waiting on us. MRI, PET, MUGA, ECHO, Pulmonary function, labs.... we will hit the ground running.

We are ready to fight hard and kill some Myeloma this month! Love to all... peg

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ZACH!! WE LOVE YOU!!

Bon voyage!

Well, as I type, we are sitting the lounge of the Delta Crown room with Lisa and Jim. We have a layover in Atlanta before we board for Barcelona. Even if the trip were over now, we've had a good time! I am easy to please, huh?

We are very excited about the next 10 days. It'll be an experience of a lifetime. Frank is feeling pretty good. Everyone reading this knows Frank won't complain. I see him wince from time to time and I know he's a little uncomfortable. Please pray for relief from his pain and that the meds he is on will work to be killing the myeloma every minute of the day! He's on some high dose Thalidomide and Dex while we are gone. I am praying for minimal side effects from these as well.

We get home Sept 28th, and have to be in Little Rock by 1 pm on Monday the 29th. He has tests already lined up: PET, MRI, EKG, Echo, labs, etc. After all the preliminary testing, we'll see Dr. Barlogie on Tuesday and hopefully start chemo that afternoon or Wed morning.

We've got the apt booked and the kids are looking forward to having one extra room this time. Nobody on the floor! It will be good to be together for this next round of treatment. This is the reason we chose to home school this year, and now that "the time has come", I am more peaceful about the decision than ever before. It's has it's drawbacks, and we'd rather them be in school under any other circumstance, but this is best for now. ECS has homecoming tomorrow, and they are looking forward to the game.

Jer 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans for a hope and a future.

We covet your prayers as the Lord leads you for the trip, the treatment and the trust!!

We love you.... peg and family

Hello Family.......I guess I'll just get straight to the point; today's update is a confirmation of the fact that my cancer has returned.

This development is something that we (the Memphis Crew) really kinda knew was coming. We had been hopeful, and praying, that there could be some other reason for all the discomfort and downright pain that I have been experiencing, but it has now been confirmed.

When I left Little Rock 5 weeks ago, I had gone from 10 lesions down to 4, and those 4 had all reduced in size. Everything was looking good. Since then I have been taking some "light" chemo in Memphis and doing all the regular stuff; work, family, church, and some occasional skydiving. (Well, OK I've just been dreaming about the skydiving)

About two weeks ago I started having occasional pains in my ribs. These occasional pains slowly migrated to other areas of my body, mainly in my chest and along my spine. They also became sharp stabbing pains and at times I have had to leave work and take medication to cope. As I said, I knew something wasn't right.

After returning to UAMS for MRI's, PET scan, and other tests on Wednesday, Peggy and I returned to see Dr Barlogie today for the results. I now have 35 active lesions.

We have a game plan and will be returning to UAMS to start treatment on Sept 29th. Lisa and Jim had been planning on taking us with them on a cruise to Europe, and have been worried we wouldn't be able to go. One of the bright spots in the day was that Dr. B encouraged us to go. He wanted to be in Little Rock to oversee my next treatment and he was going to be in Russia next week. So, he was happy for us both to enjoy our trips and get busy fighting at the end of Sept. He is putting me on oral Thalidimide ~ 400mg ~ and Dex during the trip to begin the fight and try to help me with pain.

While this is certainly disappointing news, we have learned that everything can be turned into a blessing. So, that's part of the new plan, to start looking for ways to be a blessing even in the midst of tough times.

"My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." James 1: 2-4

We will start posting more often, especially in a couple weeks when treatments begin. Until then know that we appreciate all the prayers and hugs that have come our way.

May God continue to bless,

Frank

'Having cancer is a lot like a plane flying through a storm.
Once you're aboard, tightening the seat belt and praying is all you can do!'

HAPPY BIRTHDAY FRANK!!

Today is special day indeed! Frank is 44 today!! We ate out for dinner and had a nice time and surprised Frank with some new kitchen gadgets.

Yesterday, Chandler, Frank and I went to Little Rock for a full day. We left Memphis around 7 and got there in time for Frank to have a business meeting. Chandler did her school work while we waited. I got my hair done while Frank and Chandler ran some errands. Then Frank had his PET scan, and then his MRI before we got on the road. We made it back home around 11. Having Chandler with us was a nice treat and we had fun together. We laughed about the news all day and talked politics. You know..... lipstick on a pig.... Biden's asking a wheelchair bound man to stand up..... oh... good day for talk radio.... we had a ball!!

But underneath it all we are anxiously waiting the news tomorrow from Dr. Barlogie. Are we scared? With the pain he's been having, the only truthful answer is that we're very nervous about his results. The nurse called today and said his CRP is up and he needs to start his antibiotic. (The CRP measures inflammation and usually accompanies infection. It's an indicator they watch closely. )

Our hearts are burdened tonight for our other patient friends. He's been on the same round of PAC MED as Frank. We talked to his wife today and he's been admitted into the hospital with some serious complications. He is a year or 2 younger than Frank and his kids are only 4 and 6 years old. Our hearts are heavy for the burden they are carrying. As hard as we try to be upbeat and positive, Frank and I both admitted to each other that it was hard not to compare our situations. But we are doing our best to stay positive and trust God with each day He has blessed us with. We are going to visit with them tomorrow. Please pray for them and for us: that God would enable us to minister to them in some way tomorrow.

"Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand."

Isaiah 41:10


Oh my goodness... we are counting on that promise and asking our precious Lord to increase our faith!


We are a month into home schooling. It is going great in most areas, challenging in others. But overall we are adjusting pretty good. Each of us are different, so what we gain, what we like and dislike are all different. Nothing replaces the wonderful school where they were, and all of us are looking forward to being back next year. Chandler and Zach try to have lunch there every few weeks. We've also enjoyed all the home games and visiting with friends.


The perks of not being in school are also being enjoyed. They don't have to be up at 6 anymore!! Chandler's best friend is also home schooled and she comes over to work with us once a week. We love her and the addition is fun. My niece tutors and grades their spanish. It's so much fun to listen to them talk in spanish for a few hours. I would miss all that if they if were away at school. They are custom fitting their work to their own schedules, but I must say... I'm pretty strict. I knew I would be, so I have to really myself relax. I am mainly referring to when they do certain lessons: Getting everything done in one day vs saving something for evening, rolling over a lesson into the next day, etc. But overall they are proving themselves very responsible and eager to learn. I still see them trying hard to do a good job and that makes me so happy.


We will update tomorrow when we get home. Much love, peg

Well it has been a few weeks since we dropped everyone a line so here's a Sunday afternoon update.

The past 4 weeks have been, different, that's a good word to use. Nothing earthshattering to report, it's just that our lives just seem to be "bouncing" around down life's highway.

Kind of like being on a trampoline. At times, bouncing can be a lot of fun. But sometimes, when you get to close to the edge, it gets unnerving.

I am happy to report that so far none of us have fallen off !

This week Peggy and I return to Little Rock to go through a new round of testing. As always I appreciate your prayers and we will let everyone know how it goes as soon as we know too.

I do have a specific prayer request. I have been having some pain in my chest for the past week or so. I pray that this is a "healing" pain and not a new something that has to be dealt with.

May God bless you this day!

Frank

“Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.”

http://www.cyberhymnal.org/htm/a/w/awakemys.htm


I guess the words (and the musical score) to this most renown Christian
doxology were imbedded in my subconsiousness many many years ago
when I was a child sitting in the pews of the First Baptist Church - Greenville.

Whenever I hear really good news, this is usually the first thing that starts
running through my mind.

On Friday afternoon the choir struck up the tune; we had gotten a really good report.

I will be coming back to Memphis for follow up chemo treatments and we are
in awe of how God works in our lives.

Just over a month ago I thought I was walking my last steps.

Now I can see that there are a few more steps to take than I thought,
‘Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost!’

Frank

Hello everyone,

The Carlton's are patiently waiting to meet with Dr Barlogie on Friday to see what is in store
for us next.

While in Little Rock I bumped into some dear friends and fellow patient (Margaret) & Sam Martin.

After we had spent some time catching up on things she reminded me of something I had said to her a long time ago. It had really resonated with her, and in a strange way, it once again resonated with me too.

Since we were both waiting to speak with the Dr. to find out if we were 'alright!', Margaret recalled a conversation that we had. At some point in this walk I told her that often we ask God to give us clear answers or clear understanding about what we can expect next. Sometimes we are left wanting because we don't get those answers. It occurred to me that the reason we might not get those assurances is because God wants us to rely on Him daily.

I know in my own walk I am guilty of thinking that since all the BIG STUFF is taken care of I can revert back to auto pilot where I am in control. I'll call on God when I get back in a jam. It's not a conscious process, it just happens. I have to confess that I wind up in this mind set way to often and I have to ask for forgiveness for wanting those reigns.

Thank you Margaret for reminding me that each day, I need to reach upand grab hold of my heavenly Father's mighty hand.

We have so many friends going through some rough times. We are praying for YOU, but today I have a real burden for a family that is in the midst of "the battle". John & Candy are fighting hard today. Instead of praying for me, please, lift them up in the following ways:

John has asked for some very specific things, so please pray that God will show His mighty power leaving no doubt in the minds of those in attendance that they have witnessed a miracle.
Pray that it won't be necessary to remove as much of the bone as they have predicted.
Pray that John will make a miraculous recovery not suffering as they have told him he will.
Pray for strength and encouragement for Candy as she waits alone during the lengthy surgery.
Pray for their children as they wait for news.
Pray for wisdom and skill of the surgeons.
Pray they get every bit of the cancer so that John won't have to go through this again.
Pray that God calm their fears tonight.

More from the Carlton Gang later.........................Frank

Florida update!

Oh..... we did not mean to be bad bunnies....

(we hope you remember Dr. Seuss's book.... "PJ Funnybunny did not mean to bad... but sometimes he could not help it.... ")

We have gotten several emails wondering why we haven't posted in a while. We feel so bad. We are pleased to tell you that no news is good news.

Frank and I enjoyed Christmas in July a few weeks ago and then he had labs the following Monday. Things were steady... everything creeped up a little bit and he enjoyed a good week at work and resumed most of his normal activities. Actually, we all did. Once things get back to normal with our schedules, things aren't so "in your face" concerning his treatments and such. We read this blog and wonder whose family that is on the screen... it not ours!!

Some dear friends of ours have been gracious enough to open up their home and we are now updating the site from Panama City Beach, FL. It's been a long time since just the 5 of us have been away and we are having so much fun. The beach is wonderful. (Esp when you loose your head!!)

I took my i-pod and walked the shoreline and had such a peaceful morning. I walked past condo after condo, family after family. It's amazing how we flock to the majesty of God's creation, just to be near it! And then I felt a pain.... I have that same majesty at home right outside my kitchen window. How often do I take for granted my own sunsets?

Since we've been here Frank has been totally into cooking, which he enjoys so much. I feel guilty, but since I have clean up duty, it all evens out, right? The kids and I are all into the Twilight series of books. There are 4 of them and and we are each working on one, reading all the time. Zach reads so fast that he started them in the car, finished the 2nd and is now passing me up on the 3rd book. Every time I turn around he's stealing my book and then we play tug of war with it! Being here is very relaxing and we are grateful. Chase has beaten Frank at gin 6 times in a row, and is enjoying his bragging rights! Chandler is on the 4th Twighlight book that was released at Midnight Friday. Since we were on the road, we stopprd at Barnes and Noble in Birmingham and joined about 100 others that had waited in line all day for the release. We took pictures as we left there at 1:30 am, and then go back on the road!

We will leave here and drive to Huntsville, AL for Zach's soccer tournament and be home Sunday.

I know we have asked for prayer concerning the kids school for next year. After much prayer, we have decided to home school this next term. Our plan is for them to return to school the following year. This will allow them to come with us to Little Rock from now on and not leave them anymore. Frank always says that he can handle the treatments, but having our family split apart makes things harder. We both felt strongly about the time we spend together and felt like this was the best decision. God has confirmed this decision for us over and over. Although it's going to be very different and we are nervous, sad and excited all at the same time... we know we are where we are suppose to be in this regard. Thank you for your prayers about it.

Frank will go to Little Rock on Wed, Aug 13th for his testing. Radiology and labs only... no bone marrow biopsy this time! Then, on Friday, Aug. 15th, we'll both go and meet with Dr. Barlogie about what to do next. After keeping up with our other patient friends that are on this same MED PAC regimen, we are expecting another 2-3 week stay in Little Rock very soon, but that may not be the case at all. We'll have to wait and see what test results show.

Oh... we love you guys so much for being to faithful to come to this site to check on us and pray for us. We are praising God for each of you today!

Christmas was a blast.... :) Doesn't that mean New Year is around the corner?

Regardless of how messed up our holidays are, we are celebrating. Frank's labs remained very stable over the weekend. Everything is about the same, and his platelets are still increasing. He also said his pain is getting a little better each day.

Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.
Psalm 90:14

Frank is working everyday, which is so good for him. Chase is at Urban Plunge this week. The youth are running VBS for the inner city kids. They sleep downtown all week and minister to the kids, play with them and get to know them. We are taking dinner to them tonight, so I'll get to hug his neck. Zach and Chandler are catching up with friends ~ and boyfriend ~ before going back down to Greenville for some one on one grandparent time.

Our thoughts are heavy for our friends going through similar journeys: Nanneys, Thorns, Bartons, Carmons, Wherry's and our other patient friends in Little Rock. We pray for you guys, and hope you are feeling the loving arms of our Saviour today.

Hey guys,

Frank's labs yesterday were a down just a bit. All except for his platelets, which is good news. He usually struggles with making platelets after a treatment. They were 60, up from 37.

WBC 1.7
Hct 26
Hgb 9.1

We are leaving for Greenville in the morning for the annual Christmas in July party. We're looking forward to seeing family! We're also excited to be getting Zach back from his church trip tonight. We already know he had a good time, because even with a cell phone, we only got one text message all week.

Chandler started running fever last night. She hasn't felt good for a few days but no other complaint except for fatigue.

Prayer request:
* protection for Frank's body while being around people this weekend. that he would stay free from infection. that his counts would continue to rise.
* for chandler to have healing. and for her fever to go away

We've been home a week now. We are so amazed at God's goodness. He has brought us so far and we have blessing to be thankful for every step of the way. We have been ministered to and Frank and I are both thankful for the peace we've begun to feel in certain areas.

My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness, and my mouth shall praise You with joyful lips. Psalm 63:5

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

You didn't click on anything different... I'm just playing around with the templates. I was going to say I'm bored, but I have so much I should be doing... it's really more like procrastination from my "to do" list.

Frank rested most of the weekend. He still very tired and uncomfortable in his ribs and back, but so glad to be sleeping in his own bed!

He had labs today at West Clinic. There were some changes in his numbers, but the good news is he didn't need any transfusions. Yeah! His white count dropped to 2.2, which is slightly above being neutrapenic. His platelets held their own at 37. We were excited about that! His Hct and Hgb both fell to 27 and 9, which explains his being winded easily. His body is strong and he'll continue to recover over these next few weeks. He won't get labs drawn again until Thursday.

He is going to Elliott for a few hours. Even if he had strict orders to stay home, he would go in. So I just encouraged him to wear a mask anyway and be really careful. He's blessed to have a job he loves and I know he has missed everyone in the office.

Please for:
protection over him these next 4 weeks,
for him to move forward in recovery with no setbacks,
wisdom with decision making,
and for sweet family time together.

Love to you....

Now that's what we're talking about....

Hi everyone....

As you read this, Frank is downstairs watching TV from home in Germantown. WE ARE HOME!

We saw Dr. Barlogie this morning. He was talkative about everything except Frank's treatment. He was pleased with how well he tolerated everything.... which he did!! Answered prayer!! "Come back in 4 weeks. Labs bi-weekly at home" was all we got out of him.

Frank's platelets were 21 today. They have to be 50 to pull the central line, so they transfused him, only to have them increase to 33. So they gave him another bag, which got them up to 44. They bent the rules a bit and pulled the line anyway. He was so so glad to have that out of his chest. But he's under some pretty strict orders to not lift anything, or use his right arm or move it around a lot.

I was never so glad to have the kids around! They pitched in and help us pack up the apt. Chandler and I's cars were so loaded down! We worried it wouldn't all fit, but it did. We got a celebration milk shake and hit the road in 5 o'clock traffic. All we could see was the Memphis-Ark bridge at that point!

The nurse said Frank would probably be neutrapenic again by Monday. He stopped getting the growth factor shots, so we should expect to see a drop. He will still be recovering even though we are home. He's suppose to lay low and stay away from crowded places.

It was so good to be home. My mom and dad met us here with our cat and dog ~ who, by the way, don't love us anymore. Casey followed my dad out the door as if to say "wait for me". They helped me unload the car knowing Frank couldn't and we had a quick dinner together. We hadn't seen them since we left, so that was a sweet treat.

Even though we are glad to be home, we made friends with new patients this time. Precious couples from Houston, Miami, Kentucky, Detroit and Nashville. One lady is 36 yrs old and has an 18 month old baby. I am finding that my thoughts are still in Little Rock this evening as we've left our friends there. I pray for God's healing mercy on each one of them.

Thank you for your prayers, your emails, and messages, texts and treats that encouraged us each day!! We love you so much!!

Psalm 33:20-22 We wait in hope for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. In Him our hearts rejoice for we trust in his holy name. May your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord even as we put our hope in You.

Hello everybody.

Today's been good. Frank's white count is coming up. It's 0.57 today. His platelets were 10, so he got an infusion today. The CRP came down too. His recovery is going well and talk of going home is at least being discussed. Yippee!

We see Dr. Barlogie Friday. We're hoping to be home by early next week if not before. Let's pray for that!

Our better news came from the MRI report. Frank has been hurting in his back and ribs. He was so worried that these treatments weren't working. But we got good news today that that is NOT case. Praise the Lord! The MRI showed no new lesions.

We are so relieved, of course, but I am careful never to forget that even though we are "all in this together", it is Frank that carries this disease in his body. The burden of uncertainty and fear that he's had these past few days has been so heavy. I truly believe some of the sweetest moments spouses can share are together in prayer. We've cried out to God that these treatments are working, and we praised Him together for His mercy on Frank. His mood and disposition has already changed this afternoon.

My sister Lisa came to see us with her kids. Julie and Frank read books together while our kids and Jimmy and Alexis swam most of the day. They had a good time hanging out, even finding time to excercise, and paint pottery! The change of pace was nice and we loved their visit.

Psalm 116:1-5 I love the Lord, because He has heard My voice and my supplications. Because He has inclined His ear to me, therefore I will call upon Him as long as I live. The pains of death surround me, and the pangs of Sheol laid hold of me; I found trouble and sorrow. Then I called upon the name of the Lord; "O Lord, I implore You, deliver my soul!" Gracious is the Lord, and righteous; Yes, our God is merciful.

LATE NIGHT UPDATE FROM FRANK- As I lay in the bed tonight (1:15am), punching the remote, I came across a really neat TV channel ( The Worship Network ) and heard "It is well with my soul". Not only did the hymn comfort me, but much to my surprize many of the musicians were from my home church. The program was a recording of many great hymns of the faith and filmed at Hope Presbyterian Church. It makes me so proud to be a part of Hope. That was sooooooo cool!

Sorry we're so late posting. (earlier in the evening)

Frank and I got to the hospital for labs and then darted over to Dr. Barlogie's office to see him at 11. We got to talk to the sweetest family here from West Palm Beach. We both love moments like that.

Dr. Barlogie wanted to do another MRI. He said since Frank's counts are low right now, there is less hyperactivity going on in the marrow, and that would be a good time to get a look at the lesions and what they are doing now. Frank shared with him that he's still experiencing pain his back and rib area. We also asked about what his plans are for future treatment plans, etc. He said he didn't know yet. Frank went for an MRI tonight at 8:45 pm.

After seeing Dr. B. we went back over to 7c to see his labs and finish up there. We were so pleased that he didn't need platelets for the 2nd day in a row! They were 28 yesterday, 22 today. His white count also moved up today!! It's 0.04. That is all great news.

He was still running a little low grade fever today, and his CRP level jumped from 1.7 to 7, so they ran blood cultures on all his ports. He also got another bag of IV antibiotics. But he's not running fever tonight, so that's great too!

The highlight of our day was stopping by to see Deena, our sweet APN that usually follows us. She's been out of town, and is assigned to the bottom floor chemo room, so we don't have her this time. But she talked to us and was really encouraging. We both felt uplifted after being with her.

Thank you so much for your prayers for Frank and our family.

We are so very blessed. Peg

Happy Sunday to everyone!

I hope each and everyone woke up with a sense of enthusiasm this day. I sure did.

For me I woke up thinking that I might have a shot at getting out of receiving more platelets today. God blessed me with that little treat.

While my counts are all still pretty crummy, Plts 28; WBC .01; Hct 30.3… I won’t have to get platelets this time. That puts a smile on my face.

My APN (Cindy) did ask me a bunch of questions about a low grade fever that came up last night. 99.5 is not a lot, but for safety sake, she decided to infuse me with some heavier antibiotics. I’ll take the infusers anytime over an infection.

They also ran an EKG on me because my sitting heart rate was about 140. Once Peggy left the room my heart rate went back down so I think everything is working like it is supposed to on that regard.

We are excited to have the kids coming back to Little Rock today. They have been “vacationing” at home in Memphis since Thursday. Peace and quite are nice but we miss them and are ready for them to be back here with us.

If I haven’t said it lately, I must say it again thank you, thank you, thank you for all your prayers and may God richly bless you this day.

Frank

I love the sound of the rain ~ when I am inside. It is raining here really hard and the thunder is so loud. We beat it by 10 minutes or so making it back to the apt before the downfall.

Frank got another bag of platelets today, and an IV infuser of Magnesium and Potassium to come home with him. The CRP (which we affectionately call 'the crap' ~ hope that doesn't offend) came down a little. That's good, since it's a good indicator of infection. Hence it's nick name.

WBC 0.02
RBC 3.24
Hgb 10.5
Hct 30.8
Platelets 12

We shared a room with another PAC MED patient ~ a sweet couple from Nashville. Yet another testimony of this place. They live 4 miles from Vanderbilt and their doctor told them to come here.

That makes the 5th patient getting the same combo as Frank. The dark humor in me sees everyone pulling a number to wait your turn like Baskin Robbins. "Whose next for PAC MED? NEXT!!" Seriously, it's good to meet others walking the same road as you are. There is a strong sense of family among patients. But if 5 (that we know of) of the dozen or so all got the chemo about the same time, then only a handful have gone before us. That can make your mind wander in the quiet moments of the day. But it does settle its thoughts on HOPE! Hope that this is helping patients respond, and that even with some tweaking along the way, that this is the combo that will kill those ugly cancer cells.

It's been quiet with the kids in Memphis. We've enjoyed reading the blog comments, and emails that you send. It may be just the 2 of us here, but we know we aren't alone.

Psalm 63:2-5

"I have seen You in the sanctuary

and beheld Your power and Your glory.

Because Your love is better than life,

my lips will glorify You.

I will praise You as long as I live,

And in Your name I will lift up my hands.

My soul will be satisfied as with the richest of foods;

With singing lips my mouth will praise You."

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY

We hope everyone is having a wonderful day. A day of fun. A day off work!! Frank and I had a quick stay at the hospital this morning.

His platelets were 10 today, so he got a bag. White count 0.02. His CRP marker which measures inflammation was up a tad, so they did blood cultures to be safe. Just pray Frank stays free from infection. Several people are getting admitted into the hospital from our unit. Our nurse said, "it's those PAC MED patients". Oops.... She probably didn't mean to say that. We're one of those 4 patients that got those drugs. We are praying that Frank stays healthy through this recovery.

He feels good today with energy enough to cook our "beenie weenies" and pork chops. I love seeing him do what he enjoys. We have a small watermelon too, but with his platelets so low, I won't let him cut it up. No knives. :)

It's raining here. That makes me sad for people watching fireworks. The kids are glad to be home for the weekend, hanging out with friends and family.

Love to all.... peg and frank

In Honor of this 4th of July Holiday - Galations 5:1 "It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery."



Hello everyone, sorry we did not post on Tuesday. Several people have already chided me
about the slip up so stay calm. Since we we are living in the battle-zone I think its easy to
forget that everyone wants a field report, no matter how routine I think it might be.

For the record today I registered a WBC of 0.08 and my Platlets were 16, down from 31 on Tuesday. Today was the first day for me to receive platlets.

Funny thing about platlets, I have been taking so many blood products over the years that I have to get loaded up on Benadryl and Hydrocortzone before I get them. That combination of pre-meds just wipes me out. I've been groggy since about noon.

Peggy said now that I'm awake I can type so get busy......the kids packed up and took off back
to Memphis around noon today. They are enjoying hanging out in LR with us, but they do want to be with thier friends. So off they went. The evidence of how bad they wanted to go home is that the boys left thier Wii and Playstation hardware here. They'll start missing it Saturday if it rains like its supposed to.

We are also bumping into more patents that have been given the PACMED chemo regimne. Today I spoke to my friend Francisco from Miami, who makes the 3rd person we've met doing what I'm doing. From his comments to me he is not progressing like everyone would like, but he is definately a fighter. Lift ol Franciso up in prayer if you don't mind, he needs good news.

Being here on a holiday, just me and Peggy, kinda makes us feel like empty-nesters. We plan on going all out by eating home made beenie-weenies, eating watermelon, and driving somewhere to watch fire works from the car.

We hope everyone has a fun holiday !

With love, Frank

5th bag of Stem Cells

We are so happy it's Tuesday. Yesterday was a yuk day for us... just one of those days you're glad is over.

I debated with myself on whether or not I should write that. But from the beginning, we've taken the position that we would be open about what we're going through. And how honest would we be if we ignored the hard days??

Psalm 5: 1-3 Give ear to my words, O Lord, consider my meditaion. Give heed to the voice of my cry, my King and my God. For to You I will pray. My voice You shall hear in the morning, O Lord. In the morning I will direct it to You, and I will look up.

Frank got his stem cells. Yeah. The kids came to share the 5 minute infusion with us, and then headed out for some fun. They went to the water park here in Little Rock with one of Zach's friends and his mom. They had a great day and were completely wiped out when they got home.

Frank had more energy last night. He slept less and ate more. Or was that me? He got a good laugh at me because I told him to fix his own dinner! He looked at me with his sad eyes but I told him it was because I wanted to take good care of him. He has barely gotten out of the chair for the last few days so while he was up and walking around, I wanted to take advantage of it and get him to do something. It's good for him to be active and makes him feel better in the end. He watched a movie and snuggled with the kids a little before going to bed.

We're at the hospital now. His labs are starting to drop, but not too much.

WBC 1.07 (neutrapenic)

Platelets 39

We're ready to leave for the day! Wow, we got in and out of here fast today...... love to all... Peg

Happy Sunday!

Frank is doing great. He's definitely feeling the effects of the chemo now. He's sleeping most of the day and doesn't really want to eat anything. I'm talking him into eggs and pasta. Ramen noodles are his favorite.

Frank's family left this morning. We had a sweet visit with them. Chandler and Zach got back yesterday afternoon from Memphis. They left a little later waiting on the rain to clear up, but then they got stuck in a bad interstate wreck that delayed them an hour of so. We were happy to see Chase Friday night. The bus was passing through Little Rock and stopped here for dinner, so we just met them at the McDonalds and snatched him!! He had a great time in Colorado.

Frank's blood work is starting its usual, and expected decline. His platelets were 52 today, and he's going home with a potassium infuser again today. Everything else is stable.
Tomorrow's the big day. He'll receive his 5th bag of stem cells in the morning. He had 2 in 2003, 1 in 2006, and 2 for 2008.

We knew we were blessed and grateful for him to have had a good collection 5 years ago. But the big picture really comes into focus now that we're several years out. He'll have 2 bags left after this, and we are so thankful to still have those precious cells.

Have a wonderful Sunday. We'll see you again tomorrow!

Psalm 146: 1,2 "PRAISE THE LORD! Praise the Lord, O my soul! While I live I will praise the Lord; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being."

Frank, his brother Scott, and I got here at 6am for his PET scan. Then we rushed over to the chemo room for his bags to be changed, and then over to Dr. Barlogie to await the news. It didn't take long..... He didn't even take a seat.... He just smiled and said:

"We went from 7 to 4 and the lights are out!"

Yeah! Praise the Lord!! Now.... slow down and say that again.

"7 of the lesions have been reduced to 4. The other places that previously 'lit' up, are now very dim."

Praises! So, now we're back over in the chemo room and getting the rest of the treatments. We are overjoyed... and hungry! Frank and Frances are coming up with lunch soon and Neely should be here soon.

The rest of the news is standard. His magnesium and potassium are low, platelets 79, but he'll take that orally. Everything is else is good!

Chandler and Zach are already in Memphis. Driving home alone was a big deal ~ for Frank and I ~ and I think for them too. But she did great driving and Zach did great keeping me updated every 30 minutes or so. I am proud of them. I also can't believe we are at this stage in parenting!!

Thank you for you FAITHFUL prayers for Frank and our family! I know you will be rejoicing with us today! Have a wonderful Friday!

Under His magnificent grace, Peggy and Frank

Today is the start of a long, long day, the first of two days of concentrated chemotherapy that will hopefully put the myeloma on the run.

I am now hooked up to infusers that will pump 8 hours of continuous drugs into me and I will leave here with a “tote” bag that pumps in more drugs during the night.

We will be returning to UAMS at 6:00am tomorrow to have a PET scan, then I will get back on the infusers. There may be some tweaking of the medicines based on the PET test results, but otherwise we will be here for another full day on Friday.

I am just happy to be on “offense” for a change. Once we knew that the disease had returned, it felt like I was just sitting around letting the disease tear me up inside. Now we are fighting back. Being here makes me feel better already.

Speaking of making me feel better, all the thoughtful notes and e-mails are so, so special. All of you have made such an impact on me and my entire family. We love you too !

Frank

Good morning,

Frank and I were both updating the website at the same time!

We finally able to get into the apt yesterday afternoon. We anxiously drove over and got the key out of the box.... only to find out we were given a handicap unit. No counters or drawers in either bathroom. Altered tubs. No under cabinets in the kitchen. Only the exposed pipes and garbage disposal! No storage! I needed pills ~ or something~ at that point. We've had a lot of problems with the apt rental this time and it's been frustrating. But God was good. We called and they were able to switch us to another unit in the same complex within the hour. Oh... finally!!!

Several of you have asked for the address.
Carlton
1526 Parham Point Drive
Apt 12M
Little Rock, AR 72204

More importantly, the local phone number is

501-614-3854

Frank is the only one that doesn't use roaming minutes, so we are very conservative with talking on the phone. But we can talk all we want from the apt.... so feel free to call there anytime day or night! If we're in the bed, apparently Zach can answer. Frank noticed he was still up at 3am!! :)

Please pray today that
1. this chemo will be effective and that it will be evident on tomorrow's PET scan.
2. for frank to be comfortable. he's sore from the central line placement.
3. protection over him in every way... physically, and emotionally.

Isaiah 26:3
You will keep in perfect peace, him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in You.

Well, it was an early start to the day. Frank and I arrived at 8 to meet with the nurse and the insurance lady about how the events of the next few days will unfold.

We are sitting the waiting room waiting (a room by any other name....) for Frank to be worked in for his central line placement. Getting worked is another word for "plan to sit here all day long". But we're not complaining. They said they didn't have an appointment for this until Friday. We were even going to try and get this done in Memphis. But they said they could work him in today. So, we're happy to... sit here all day long. :)

We have the list of meds now, for our medical friends and patients, or just for those of who like detail. MED PAC: M: mesna. This isn't chemo. It's given to prevent bleeding from the bladder when the cytoxan. E: etoposide. D: dexamethasone P: platinum (cisplatinum) A: ara-c This is the new one. This is a leukemia drug. C: cytoxan.

The nurse we met with today said basically the same thing we learned yesterday. She said they have been using this for about 2 months on less than a dozen people. No written data yet, but it's well tolerated. Frank will do great!

He'll get chemo Thursday morning. Then Friday at 6am, he'll have a PET scan. Dr. B will read it stat, and then he'll adjust chemo if needed and he'll get chemo right after that. He'll get disconnected Sat with labs over the weekend and stem cells on Monday.

You know everything we know!!

Frank's family is coming in for the weekend. We're looking forward to spending time with them. And I can't wait to see Chase and hear all about his trip. He's been in Colorado since last Sat. He has waited ~ not so patiently~ to finally be old enough for the church trips. We talked to him once and he was having a blast.

First thing we did this morning was read your encouraging comments. They mean so much to us! Thanks.

Love, Peggy

Psalm 118:14 "The Lord is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation."

Hello! You guys are so sweet! Frank and I have loved reading the comments you leave. It makes him feel so loved and cared for. It also puts you on our minds too and we have your face in our mind when thanking the Lord for you ~ the faithful ones praying for us. We are so very blessed with such sweet friends and family. We love you so much.

Frank got up early and went to his MRI of the his head. (We don't have results back yet) He thought it would be a fast scan. They can do his hips in less than 5 minutes! 2 and 1/2 hours later, I'm getting worried. He said it was a bigger deal than he expected. They took lots of pictures and then added contrast dye. Not to worry, they said that was normal procedure because the head has so many little bones.

We saw Dr. Barlogie this afternoon. Chandler and Zach went with us. Everyone loved seeing them and made over them. I'm sure being 16 and 14 years old, they just loved that!

Dr. Barlogie came in the room deep in thought and concentration. There were long periods of silence while we just watched him sit there and think and write. He obviously has a plan.

It's another transplant but not with Melphalan, the traditional drug used to treat Myeloma for transplant. It's 6 different drugs. Some of which he's had. 2 are new. This is a new cocktail they've made up for patients that aren't responding to other treatments. Frank will be about the 16th person to receive this combination. The data isn't in yet about how well it's working. It hasn't been enough time, but the initial respones have been positive!! Yeah!! Our nurse said that it's tolerated well. Meaning... it shouldn't cause a lot uncomfortable side effects, which is good. And Frank has veins of steel anyway.... he has always taken his chemo well. He makes other patients jealous when he skips into the clinic while they shuffle in from weakness. God has been good and we feel blessed that Frank is very strong in that regard.

The treatment is called MED PAC. You know how it works by now... each letter is a drug. The M and the A are the new ones. I think it's called Mesna and the other one is a leukemia drug. Frank's single port line won't work this time because the drugs aren't compatible with each other, so he'll have to have a central line put in tomorrow. The last time he needed one of those was April 2003 for his collection.

He'll get stem cell support on Monday. That will leave him 2 bags left. Dr. B is talking about trying to collect again after this treatment. The central line will already be in and it'll be a good time to try. That makes us feel really good.

God timing is always so good. Chase is on a church trip, and Chandler and Zach are here with us. The time here with them had been good. We've laughed so hard our sides hurt, but 10 minutes later one of us is teary eyed. We've had some really honest conversations too. They don't last too long. It's been emotionally hard, but it's been good for us. We've had conversations I don't think the kids would have had in front of their little brother. I miss him, but I can tell that they are glad to be here with some more "grown up" time with us.

Chandler is enjoying having some freedom ~ and her car. She is reading in Barnes and Noble by herself tonight. In the car earlier she said, "i know what I'll do... I'll just go up there and read so I don't have to buy the book"... She was proud of herself for thinking of a new concept! Don't tell her...... but didn't someone already invent the library??

We'll update often so you know how to be praying. Right now, our prayer request are:

1. no insurance issues

2. central line placement tomorrow (they are working him in a full schedule)

3. tolerance with the chemo

4. Healing!!! For the meds to kill each and every ugly cell now and forever

5. save travel for Chase as he comes home Friday, and for Chandler and Zach as they go home.

Psalm 36:5 Your mercy, O Lord, is in the heavens; Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.

Joshua 1:9 “I have commanded you, be strong and of good courage for the Lord God is with you wherever you go, right there with you; watch and listen for Him!”


Being diagnosed with a terminal illness is a very difficult situation, perhaps one of the most difficult that anyone ever faces.

As I sit in this chair, typing these words I am very cognizant of the disease that is eating away at me from the inside. My hips are sore, I have pains in my back, and my jaw is numb for some reason.

Over these past days I have had occasions where tears well up in the corners of my eyes as I watch my wife and my children interact. Thoughts of not being with them to laugh or play or to just simply sit and watch them weighs heavily on me.

Yet, in the midst of this kind of turmoil my God has commanded me to be strong and of good courage!

Well, to everyone that reads this page I want to reiterate that I intend to do exactly as I have been instructed……I lay claim to His provision, with His help I will be as strong and as courageous as I possibly can, and most importantly, I will watch and listen for Him.

We will visit with Dr. Barlogie on Tuesday afternoon to find out what the treatment plan will be. Once we start down that road, it will be several weeks before we know if “it’s working”.

I think we (people in general) tend to not think about how God works in our lives and it takes difficulties to make us refocus and declare, at least to ourselves, how we will respond.

I truly believe that God is totally in charge and I am so grateful that He is on my side.

As always all of your prayers, comments, and offers of help are greatly appreciated.

Frank

Good morning,

Frank and I are both ready to see Dr. Barlogie today and "get the news over with" one way or the other. Waiting isn't a stress release. Frank is not as anxious today as he says he was yesterday. In his words over breakfast he says he's expecting the worst, so anything else will be good news to him. I don't feel the same way. I am not convinced. I'm holding out that things haven't progressed and he'll move forward with the next Mel-VTD-PACE chemo he was originally scheduled for. I like it when we're NOT on the same wave link. It allows one to be strong for the other ~ whoever needs it at the time. And with Frank's competitive nature, it's something for us to bet on. Whose right, and what is the prize? :)

I do feel better after having breakfast. It was a "living devotion" for me. As we walk into the lobby to eat, the first thing I noticed is how crowded it was, unlike yesterday. Crowded with families and small children. Then, I started noticing that several had special needs children. One in a wheelchair, one with Downs. Then I saw a Granddaddy with a Special Olympics t-shirt on. Common sense has kicked in at this point, only because I had already had coffee in the room.

As we sat at our table discussing our own trials, all I could think of was how awesome our heavenly Father is. We are so frail in our humanity. So needy. So broken. How can any of us make it through without His grace and strength?? Each table represented to me how each of us have our own trials and burdens we carry. I saw the family with the Downs toddler fold their hands as the little boy said the prayer. You couldn't understand him... but God could. Are we not the same way? Sometimes I just mumble my scared and anxious heart to the Lord. I can't always make sense of it all..... but God can.

I realize as we wait to see the doctor, that we have close friends also battling cancer. Their child is fighting cancer, or Lyme disease. But even if we don't have a disease we can name, we have insecurities, broken relationships.. all sorts of things that bring us to our knees with our Savior, our Healer... our Comforter. And His grace is sufficient for ALL our needs. That's what we're holding onto as we wait to see Dr Barlogie................

Heb. 4: 14-16 Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.

4:15 pm

We just saw Dr. Barlogie. Frank was right. Numb is the only word that comes to mind right now. Frank is quiet. He said he's played this moment over many times in the past week. Dr. Barlogie wants to run more tests on Monday morning. Frank will have another scan of the head to find out more to explain the numbness in the face. There are many new lesions in the hip, spine and ribs. He wants a bone marrow too. He doesn't know what to do yet, but said to come back prepared for 3 weeks at least.

So, we are on our way to Memphis.

Much love for each one of you. peg

The Journey Begins Again.....................

Hello from Peggy, Frank, Chandler, Zach, & Chase....it' been a whole month since we posted so we thought would get back in the habit of updating the site.

The Carlton's have been on a vacation of sorts these past weeks. When we left Little Rock in May, we were told to go home and recouperate then come back in a month. Since then we have gone to a fish fry, painted Chandler's room, spent time doodleing in the yard, gone and seen old friends, and in general just done normal summer time stuff.

I will be returning to Little Rock on Wednesday to begin the next round of tests and then treatments. We haven't decided if everyone is leaving on Wednesday or not, but one way or another we will all be in LR by weeks end to see if we can make this Myeloma stay away.

We certainly hope this trip will be uneventful...........so stay tuned we'll let you know as the journey progresses..............

Frank


“In the world you will have trouble but take courage for I have conquered the world.” - Jesus

Little Rock's visit was pretty uneventful. We left here around 11, saw the doctor, left there at 5 and made it back to see American Idol in our jammies. Not too bad!

We didn't feel rushed with Dr. Barlogie and got our questions answered. At least the ones that he could answer. Our unanswered questions are reserved for the Lord. I know His ways are best. If we could see the future and get all our "what ifs" out of the way we wouldn't trust Him, we would run ahead in pride, or we wouldn't get out of the bed! So... we trust Him for each step of the way.
Phil 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Frank's PET scan, bone marrow and blood work and kidneys showed no signs of active myeloma. The MRI of the spine showed lesions that appeared new to the doctor reading it, but he was comparing it to an October 2007 MRI. We read the chart before the doctor comes in, so this had us very scared.

But Dr. Barlogie read it over carefully, called the MRI doctor reading the scan, and called in another doctor to our room and we talked it over with all of them. Dr. B is dismissing the thought that these lesions are new as of May.

Frank's spine hadn't been scanned since Oct. During the relapse after the first of the year, only his shoulders and hips had an MRI. Those lesions could have been there since the relapse and just not seen until now. He says there is not way to measure it with nothing more current. So, in light of the other tests, he's saying things are fine.

Frank's blood work was still on the sluggish side. He was officially neutrapenic with his white count 1.5. Hematocrit was 25 and platelets 49. So, instead of starting the second "heavy" treatment, he wants Frank to take "light" chemo here for a month. The Velcade, Thalidomide, Dex combo. Then return on June 23rd for testing and plans to start the Mel, VTD-PACE treatment.

Sorry for all the details if they overwhelm you. I include them for many reasons. We have fellow Myeloma patients that read this. Sharing the specifics of treatment plans are important in the myeloma family. I also want those that like the detail, my nurse friends and esp our out of town family to be able to have the specifics. It also serves as a journal for us. We've gone back and read archives and remembered parts of his treatments we'd forgotten about. It's amazing that his 5 1/2 year journey is all right here. Anyway...

We have a plan. His big picture is still the same. He wants to do another transplant after the next round of chemo. He said he could try and collect stem cells after the next transplant.

I know this is a universal feeling but.... we are SO ready for school to be out!!! We need some down time! The kids have been more stressed than I've ever seen them this semester. It breaks my heart to see them so bogged down. Please pray for them. Pray this summer will be a time of renewal in their sweet spirits and they'll truly find rest in the Lord.

Love to each of you. We are so grateful.

Peggy

Happy Monday to everyone. If you're a mom, than I hope you had a good Mother's Day. Frank went to a lot of effort to make sure I "had the day off". I felt very loved and appreciated!

This is our week to be in Little Rock for testing. Frank has test lined up for today and Tuesday. Then we meet with Dr. Barlogie on Wednesday.

Exam review is this week. Exams start Friday. So.... we decided I should stay here for Monday and Tuesday and try to keep the kids focused so they can finish the year strong. I will join Frank on Wed to meet with the doctor and discuss things.

It's hard to be away from him. I feel like a loser wife when I'm not with him. :/ But I know he's fine. The kids and I had a sweet morning together and I'm looking forward to tonight.

Please pray for the appointment on Wednesday. We are asking for wisdom as Dr. Barlogie looks at how Frank handled this last round and decided about the next one.
We are praising God for how well the chemo is working so far. And for how strong Frank's body is. I was about to type.. "I don't know how he does it?" But I do!! It's nothing but God and the power of prayer! God has shown over and over that He is in the middle of all of this. It strengthens me to see it over and over again. I know it does you, too. Because if you're reading this right now... you've probably been reading our journal for a number of years now!

The Streams in the Desert devotion I read from is so good for today. It's on faith, and how God perfects us and we get stronger through the process of believing God. It says being trained for a life of faith requires many areas of learning, including:
the trail of faith,
the discipline of faith,
the patience of faith,
and the courage of faith.
We pass through many of these stages so we can realize the Victory of faith!

I am thanking God this morning for the stages we've experienced, and praying we are faithful and please Him in our road for victory! peg

Dear Family and Friends:

Well today is a bright a sunny day in Memphis; sunnier than most for me anyway.

I am so happy to report that my labs came back normal (normal for me anyway) on Monday and I did not have to take anymore blood products!

This means God is answering everyone's prayers that my body will start making blood on its on.

I plan on doing regular things today like going to work, eating lunch in a crowed room, and shaking peoples hands without worrying if they are sick. I'll still wash my hands and all, but the fear factor is a bit less.

Thank you for all the kind words, deeds, and prayers.

May God Bring Blessing to You today,

Frank

Happy Friday loved ones.

Frank got his lab work this morning and we are headed to Baptist for some blood this morning.

WBC 3.5
Hgb 8
Hct 26
Platelets 10

Our prayer is that he would recover from the treatment and make blood on his own. If he keeps needing blood, they're going to give him a bag of stem cells to help him. We want to keep those bags for transplants, so we would prefer to not have to use the stem cells.

We are so thankful he hasn't had any infections and that we are in Memphis for all of this.

peg

Can't believe Sat was the last post... the days are just flying by.

We decided he could hold out on Sunday and have labs drawn on Monday. Everything was okay except platelets. They were 7. The other values were low, just not low enough to need blood products.

As the white and red cells recover, the platelets are usually last to follow, so there's no shock there.

We went back over to Baptist ~we have our own parking space now :) ~ and got some platelets.

Frank didn't go get labs drawn Tues. This morning the platelets were 8. So... if you need us we're at Bapt. They have been so sweet and we've been happy with them. Frank says emotionally it's a huge difference to be home and managing this. We are very thankful!

Please pray his platelets recover quickly. Zach and I are congested and sneezing... allergy stuff. Please pray it doesn't move into a sinus infection so we can all stay healthy for daddy.

"Elijah was man just like us. He prayed earnestly." James 5:17

Thank you for your prayers. We've seen some answered prayers about school and we are experiencing some peace about decisions that need to be made. God is moving in many many ways. We're keeping our eyes open... we don't want to miss a thing.

Because of His grace,

Peggy

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOMMA!

FINALLY!! PRAISE THE LORD!!

Frank and I got up and left at 6 am for Little Rock. When we got there, they had 2 units of blood ordered for him, but when they ran the labs.... he didn't need it!

His red counts were good. White count was up from 0.5 to 0.85. Still neutrapenic but it was great to see a movement in the right direction. Platelets were 27. Down from 50 but not below twenty, so no transfusion needed.

He's decided to take tomorrow off and just lay low and be careful. We're not going back to Little Rock for labs.

We are encouraged that his recovery from this last treatment is... well... almost over! :)

You guys are awesome!! Thank you so very much for all your love and support.

voting is for the 4-24 entry

Oh... I hate to post after yesterday's entry! I feel like I'm breaking up a party. But you can still vote. (frank thinks that's cool)

We had fun with it last night. Frank was laughing at himself. He got so tickled! The kids kept saying, "you sound just like grandaddy when you laugh hard like that."

We've been at the hospital almost every day for blood for 2 weeks. Here's what we know....

The platelet count keeps dropping after the transfusions. That seemed weird. His platelets were 17, he got a bag, but they dropped to 13. So he got another bag and today they were 9. They said he's building up a resistance to the platelets. (He also was making antibodies to the whole blood too) So from now on he'll need to get a "single donor bag". I thought that meant the same person had to donate every time he needs platelets, but I was wrong. They said some bags of platelets are full of cells from several different donors. He needs a bag that only has one persons cells in it. That made sense. He got his single donor bag today.

His platelets were 9 this morning, but 50 an hour after the transfusion. Yeah!!

We're praying they are just that high or higher tomorrow, but if he rejects this bag, they could be below 20 tomorrow. So we need to get some lab drawn over the weekend. There is no place to do that in Memphis. We are getting up and driving to Little Rock to have his labs drawn, and get some blood if he needs it. Then we're coming home hopefully in time to celebrate Nana and Jim's birthdays.

If we need to, we'll do the same thing Sunday. But we're hoping he's on his way up, up, up! His white count went from 0.1 to 0.3 to 0.5 so things look like they're headed in that direction.

The most wonderful news of all is that all the cancer markers and lab values are low and look really good! This is working! Praise the Lord!!

Please pray he remains free from infection while his white count is under 2.0. We are so thankful that with all the blood products he's needed that him being sick hasn't been an issue.

Thanks too for keeping us with us and for praying so faithfully for our family. If you're website shy, you can send him an email. He loves hearing from people and it really does make him feel better.

Psalm 18:2 The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge. He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

WOW...it's been since Monday that we posted an update on how things are going. I guess we have been caught up in such a cycle of "same-ol, same ol thing" that I took it for granite that everyone doesn't know the path we've walked this week.

For starters, my Tuesday labs came back worse than they've ever been. WBC was .001, Platelets fell too under 10, and my electriclights were way low. I haven't scene people running around and getting busy like that since Chase caught himself on fire striking matches over at the Cocci's house. That burnt carpet smell lasted forever.

Anyway, once they got me stablized I rode in an ambulance over to Baptist East and halfway their a car ran the red light and smashed into our vehicle. It turned out to be some young kid listening to rap music that was turned up to loud. He was already late for school at Christian Brothers, but now he was even later. He was going so fast that he was thown through the window and it cut his ears off. I guess he will have to turn the music up even louder from now on.

Once we got that mess untangled, and I got his dad's insurance card, we made it to the Outpatient Services are for some blood.

Once I had been photographed, fingerprinted, and forced to sign one of those living will thingy's I recieved 3 units of blood; 2- whole and 1 platlets.

As I mentioned before, all week has been a repeat of the same cycle of events, minus the car wreck of course. I think this week should be named SHAMPOO. Like it says on the bottle, "rinse hair, lather up with Herbal Invasion, then REPEAT".

Of course if you are still reading this POST, you must know by now that most of this tail is made up and the misspelled words are there to drive all of you "English Teacher" types crazy.

I hope this made up story put a smile on your face and perhaps got you to chuckle. That's what I'm doing in spite of the wierd things that have been going on with my health.

The truth is I have been going in for labs every day and I really have been having a hard time making blood. My White Count is still extremly low, but making a move in the right direction. I have recieved blood products (whole & platlets) every day except Tuesday, and my body is just plain beat up. I do feel good, which is a good thing but on the inside things just aren't right.

As you pray, just lift me up so that I can avoid infection and that my body will repair itself soon. I miss being able to high five my friends and tell stories to complete strangers. Hopefully that will come soon.

May God Bless You!

Frank

Well, we're so glad the fever has gone away. But his labs today weren't as good as we were hoping for.

White count still 0.1 and platelets were 15. Yikes. They sent him right over to Baptist and got a bag in him pretty quick. I managed to beat him 3 out of 5 hands of gin in the process. Oops. I'm not suppose to let him win am I?

With his white count so low, he came home after we left the hospital and worked from home. We're having fun teasing one another, cause .. umm...he likes to work from the office upstairs.... which is where I like to be too...ummm... you know... when he's usually not home... (wink wink)
SOOOO, I brought in another chair today to try and share a little, but that didn't last too long. It's all in good fun. I know he needs to work and I'd rather him be here when his counts are so low. I know he's anxious to get back to work.

They gave him a shot for his white count today, so we should see some good results tomorrow. He was still very anemic as well. Hct 29, and Hgb 9.

Praises that he is not sick! Please continue to pray to Frank that his counts will recover. And pray for us too as we continue to make plans for the next school year and adjust to our new kinda normal.

The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.
Deuteronomy 31:8

"Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised" Ps 48:1

I can't believe it's Sunday already. Sorry we haven't updated since Wednesday.

Frank did get to go to work Wednesday, (yippee) but that was the only day this week. Thursday his white count was 0.6 and his platelets were 21, so we went over to Baptist Outpatient Center. Too bad this can't be like a fast food drive through.... "yeah, I'll have a bag of platelets and a diet coke please".

Friday's labs were about the same, but he needed whole blood instead. So, we went back over to Baptist. Same song, second verse. He got 2 units of whole blood, with growth factor shots on the side. White count was 0.1 Friday.

Saturday was such a gorgeous day. Frank couldn't help himself and he and Chase cut the grass. He had to rest a lot during the process, but I know it felt good to be doing something he enjoys on such a pretty day.

We went to the final production of "7 brides for 7 sons" at school. Chase had fun and everyone did a great job. (the picture is Chase taking his final bow) Frank wore his mask the whole time and we stayed away from the crowds.

This morning, his fever is 100.1. He said he knew when he woke up something wasn't right. I'm home with him, Chandler and Chase went on to church. (Zach's out of town at a soccer tournament).

Let's pray his fever doesn't get any higher and that it goes away! We are praying for protection over his body in every way. Tomorrow will also be tricky... When Little Rock gets his labs and knows he's running fever, you'll be able to hear Dr. Barlogie all the way from there screaming "get him here stat!" But he never wants us to leave, so we have to weigh out those decisions carefully. We want to stay home until May 12th if at all possible.

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in time of trouble.

Therefore we will not fear...." Psalm 46: 1-2a

Frank is getting daily labs at West Clinic. He's feeling good and went in to work today.

His platelets dropped quite a bit this time. They went from 60 to 33. I'm glad it's only Wednesday, because West isn't open on the weekends. His white count is 2.5 which is good for him. He had a growth factor shot before we left Little Rock so that has helped his white count a lot.

Please pray that his platelets will start to go up from here. If they do drop more, let's pray that we would know before the weekend so he can get an infusion on Friday and not go the weekend either in need, or in wonder.

Chase is the school play that opens tomorrow night. It's the musical "7 brides for 7 sons". We're excited to see him and his hard work pay off. Zach's out of town again this weekend for a soccer tournament ~ Go Lobos! Chandler is playing the piano Saturday for judges in her yearly festival. She's always gotten a superior rating and we are proud of her 8 years behind the keys!

Psalm 20: 4-5 "May He grant you according to your heart's desire, and fulfill all Your purpose. We will rejoice in Your salvation, and in the name of our God we will set up our banners! May the Lord fulfill all your petetions."

2 Chronicles 20:15 "Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God's."

We're home! Yeah! As I got into bed last night, I just sighed at how good it felt to be in my own bed.

We didn't see Dr. Barlogie yesterday. We saw Dr. Kiwan. He's a hoot. It's funny, cause we've been going to UAMS since Jan 2003. In all that time, this is only the 2nd or 3rd time to see a different doctor.

He set us up for return on May 12th for PET scan, MRI, bone marrow biopsy and labs. The plan is for Frank to start the next treatment (like he just finished) that week, but he's not going to do it then. Frank wants to wait until after the kids get out of school. They can come with us then and it'll be a holiday weekend so he'll miss less work.

He is neutrapenic now. And his platelets are getting low. He's at West Clinic this morning getting labs drawn.

He's going to come home and rest today and stay away from people. (SuperMan learned a lesson from last time I think!) So, he's pushing me out the door to work instead. :)

Thank you so much for praying for him and our family. We are so encouraged and know that Frank is just a miracle because of it! Peg

Well here we sit, in our Little Rock home away from home.

We arrived last Monday, got "hooked up" on Tues and have been doing our best not to go stir crazy ever since. Finally, Saturday at 5:00, I got turned lose from my chemo bag and my spirits were immediately lifted. Carrying those pumps around just mentally makes you "feel" sick.

Now we have a few more labs to run and hopefully we can go home. Dr. Barlogie will let us know tomorrow. Our hope is to come home while I recover from this treatment.

I miss my family, I miss my friends, and I miss just hanging around all the people that make our lives special.

That sounds like such a downer, but it's the truth. Proverbs 12:22 says "The Lord detest lying lips, but he delights in men who are truthful."

Honestly, I must tell you that being away from our kids, from work, and home is so hard!

Peggy and I are headed over to the hospital........so know that we miss you all and hope to be home soon.

Frank

2:00 pm Got labs today. Not too bad
WBC 3.33
Hgb 9.2
Platelets dropped a lot to 74
Potassium was low but I took it orally
CRP is good ~ no inflammation

Thanks for praying for me.

Happy 16th Birthday Chandler!

Oh, what was I doing 16 years ago today? I was laying in a hospital bed, tired but excited, wearing the most awful looking pink gown (that I'm sure I thought was pretty), watching the clock so I could hold Chandler again. Our life had changed forever. We were parents!


Never in our wildest dreams did we think we wouldn't be with our daughter on her 16th birthday. Life is full of unexpected turns... yet, no matter what challenges we face.. we are truly blessed. This may be weird, but the past few days, I keep hearing Chandler's voice on the video clip they did at church at Frank's 2005 relapse. She said she wanted to be able to share turning 16 and driving with both her parents. I am so very thankful to the Lord that she was able to that. Oh, please let it be so for both the boys as well. Oh Lord, hear our cry!

We did have fun with her on Saturday.... just look at that smile!

We had a busy day today. We didn't like the place we were. Frank thinks like a man... it had a bed and a toilet so what's the problem?? I admit I am a hotel snob. The carpet was pieced together where they had cut big patches out. Dirty, and old. So.... I win! (Actually, he wouldn't admit it but he was with me on this one.)

We checked out and packed the car in the rain, with tornado sirens going off. So, as we pull out of the parking lot ~ now homeless ~ yelling over the sirens.... We realize we have no place to go for shelter. Oh... we didn't think about that.

We ended up my hair dresser/friend's shop. So while we waited out the storm, I got a hair cut! Not too bad!

The hospital wasn't too bad today. We got in and out pretty fast. I'm so glad we had an afternoon time slot. Our nurse said they had all the patients in the hallway this morning for the tornado warning. I bet that was crazy! His labs are good. Just goes in for the bag change, shot and chemo and we're on our way... uneventful. Unless you get hit by a tornado.


We're in our new digs now. Much better!! Kroger had Healthy Choice on sale at Kroger for a buck fifty... guess what we had for dinner??


His spirits are good. He's starting to get tired. Mine are ok too. I'm missing home, missing the kids. Missing work. Our being seperated is magnified when we're gone for special days like a birthday. But we've all celebrated a birthday apart because of treatment. Chandler had her 2003 birthday with us here too. But she got a great present... Frank collected over 40 million stem cells on her birthday. We read it in the archives. That was fun to remember.


It's hard to believe we've been in this battle again since the end of November. Where have 4 months gone? We are so thankful for those of you walking this journey with us. It is an amazing feeling to know we are not alone. What incredibly patient people you are!

Prayer requests:
Strong recovery next week from this treatment.
Success from this treatment ~ visible on the MRI.
No sickness, no infection ~ from him or any of us.
Wisdom as we make decisions about school for kids next year.
God's sweet mercy on our children, every single day.
Energy for Nana.

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." Romans 12:12

We are in Little Rock. I’m in the process of getting worse before I can get better…that is the way I see it anyway.

To update everyone… We had previously asked that everyone pray for the latest round of tests to show improvement in my bone lesions and that my blood counts would improve without the help of booster drugs.

The bone lesions did not shrink, but they did not get bigger. There were also no new bone lesions found in the hips and shoulders, so things are the same as they were last time. Dr. Barlogie said that it is not unusual for the lesions to remain stable, it is always better for them to shrink, but nothing to be alarmed about. So everyone lift up Praise!

Secondly, my white counts, platelets, etc DID improve from previous testing and I am “strong” enough to start treatments. We were concerned that since my episode with the flu, my counts might need a growth factor shot to stimulate them. It is always better for the body to recoup on is own. Again, everyone offer praise to God for touching my body once again.

So, here we are trying to be productive, going to the clinic every day and doing as we’re told. We miss the apt – the kitchen mostly because now we’re looking for ways to eat cheap while we live in a hotel room for 7 days. Lean Cuisines are looking good… let me tell you.

More later…..Frank

"Your comforts delight my soul"

What an exciting weekend we've had! We've been keeping a big secret at our house....

Saturday Chandler had a surprise party for her 16th birthday! She was totally shocked. I'll post a picture soon. It's priceless! (It's the 10th, but we'll be in Little Rock)

This weekend was one of the reasons we asked Dr. Barlogie for the April 7th return date. When we originally made plans, we would have been home for 3 days before the party, and Frank would've been feeling bad from the treatment. Then he got the flu. The delay in treatment would have had us in Little Rock during the party, so we asked for a few more days.

From conception to clean up, God blessed us with the gift of love. When we started planning this, our friends and family knew we were going have trouble getting this done. They tied my hands behind my back, and did this whole party for Chandler. We are so grateful and overwhelmed by all they did. It was a blast.

I didn't realize until the party started and I saw how happy we all were, how our moods have been down lately. It was the first time in a while we were celebrating something. I'm still riding that feeling this morning.

But it couldn't stay Saturday night forever. April 7th is here whether we like it or not.
Frank got up this morning and drove the Little Rock alone for his testing. They don't do bone marrow biopsies anymore so there is nothing invasive. He'll come home tonight and then we'll leave together in the morning.

I stayed behind to take Chase to the doctor for a checkup. And, of course, we'll all watch the Tigers play tonight at 8!

We are nervous about the MRI. They didn't do one the last time we were there. Frank said he was glad, because he wouldn't have come back any sooner no matter what it showed. So why sit on bad news if we didn't get the results we wanted? I agree, but I have to admit, I've been anxious about it. We are praying that it will show improvement on the lesions from the last treatment. That would be a wonderful and hopeful way to begin this next week of chemo.

"In the multitude of my anxieties within me, your comforts delight my soul" Psalm 94:19