Bill and I are back from a long day at the hospital. It appears that my lung situation is stable. In fact, the doctor even said that it looked good!! I am planning to start the standard chemotherapy on Monday 6/16. It will be a 5-1/2 hour experience every 3 weeks. I will follow a pretty well proven regime of chemotherapy- Taxol and Carboplatin. Until I start, if I will have side effects and which ones will affect me when.She said to expect the second week to be the tired one. Otherwise, I should feel pretty good (as I do now). I am disinclined to participate in a clinical trial forAvastin and Erlotinib (two molecular agents which inhibit the growth of blood vessels). I guess my true nature of going with the proven agents is coming through. I intend to pursue complementary therapies of an Eastern sort, including acupuncture for nausea, yoga and Reiki for relaxation and strength. I want to maintain a positive outlook throughout since my healing has gone well to date. I think we are both feeling fairly optimistic at this point. Enjoy the weekend and take me off your worry list. It may not be the best summer but I will be fine!

Staples Out and A Walk

This weekend was really big for me. I had my staples out, which was a great relief and had a walk to a friend's garden. Of course, I hope everyone has been enjoying this perfect weather. Everyone says that I should be resting up to heal faster!! Is it possible to fast track this process? I really am better every day.

On Wed., a group of doctors will consider my case. Since there are multiple things going on, it might work better to group think this one. The tradeoff is to start the chemotherapy ASAP to attack remaining cancer cells, particularly those in my lung sac (which are inoperable); vs. letting the body finish its healing from the surgery. It is a decision best made by the medical minds involved. On Friday, Bill and I go in for a chemotherapy meeting and follow up X Ray to see what is brewing in my chest. Again, we will know more afterward.

I have my own complicated schedule in June...all my favorite things converging into weddings, graduations and parties to celebrate the year! As long as I am feeling ok, I can go to these events and enjoy them. However, some will have to go by the board....and I won't know until I am there. A very difficult thing for me..

Lots of uncertainty but I am optimistic. I have a wonderful family, friends, and team of doctors. I couldn't be luckier!! Lots of love to all of you and many thanks for your help.

What a difference a week makes!!

So much better today. The surgeon came to the house to remove staples today!! Is this an unheard of service??? I am laying low this week. A new nanny is starting for the children. She will come every weekday from 1-7. Keep your fingers crossed. She is my savior. Friday I have an appointment with the chemotherapy doctor. I will have a chest x-ray which will determine how long we can wait until we start the chemo. If the fluid around my lung and heart is starting to build, then I will forego some recovery for an all-out attack on the cancer. This is a real trade off, one I would prefer not to face, but I will get good advice on this. Enjoy this glorious weekend!! Nathaniel and Bill say that it is crystal clear and beautiful on the Island in Maine. I can life vicariously through all of you enjoying this start to the summer season!!

Lots of love to all,
Maura

Home!!!

I am home and feeling much better after 9 days in the hospital!! I am eating solid food, like english muffins and applesauce and feel I will be adding to that soon! Thank you for all your prayers, wishes and cards. They mean so much!

I am optimistic about my recovery. I need to get strong for chemotherapy starting in June. It will continue for 18 weeks, once I start. Unfortunately, I may lose my hair, but hoping to have some wigs or scarfs to go out!!

Best wishes. Maura

Welcome to MAURA MATTERS! We have created this blog to keep you up to date on Maura Perkins' recovery from cancer surgery. So many people care about Maura. We know she matters to you. Our goal is to keep you up to date on her recovery. As many of you know the problem was first discovered on an ultrasound she had on May 9th. She had a CAT scan on May 11th and was admitted to Beth Israel Hospital that evening. The surgery was performed on May 15th. She will be released from the hospital on May 20th. Thank you for all the help and support we have received to date.