Quick Upate - Monday February 19, 2007

Good Evening Friends and Family:

Just want to update you on how Muggs is doing since the last chemotherapy treatment. We are now on day 5 (post-treatment) and although she is experiencing some significant fatigue, she has tolerated this round much better than the last two. It seems as if the administration of fluids is key to a better experience. She is continuing to try to do her part to keep her fluid intake constant. She still has difficulty with the taste of water, but is getting creative about the way she gets fluids. Although water is best, she is also eating Popsicles and ice cream bars as well. She does continue to have some nausea, but it is more manageable this time around. Her appetite is some better this round too.

As for the Avastin, the new medication that she received - we think that she tolerated this well, although we don't have a baseline to evaluate any side effects. We understand that side effects with this new drug are not as pronounced, so perhaps she really isn't having any additive side effects.

We continue to experience God's care as expressed through our friends and family, and are so grateful for you. Thanks for continuing to pray for us as we walk this road. Since many have expressed appreciation for specific prayer requests, I thought I would share a few with you tonight:

• Please continue to pray for Muggs' complete healing. Specifically, that the chemo would continue to attack the cancer, and that the new drug would also have its intended effect of preventing blood vessel growth to the primary tumor.
• Muggs is keeping a quiet heart and mind as she walks through this. I know that none of you are surprised by this. God has given her much grace as she has faced this battle. Please pray that she would continue to receive the grace that God is providing.
• We are dealing with some additional illness in the house, as two of our children were recently diagnosed with strep throat. Please pray for God's protection for Muggs - that she doesn't contract this infection.
• I would appreciate your prayers as well - that i would continue to seek God and what He is speaking to me during this time. He has been so kind to meet me during this time, and provide fresh grace for each new day.
• Finally, please pray for the children, that they would have hearts that are attuned to God, and that their hearts would remain pliable and receptive to His truth. And, that they would look for new ways to serve Muggs and be sensitive to her needs each day.

I continue to be amazed that so many of you visit this site and are eager to care for us, and lift us before the Father. I hope that you sense our sincere gratitude and love for you.

For the family,

Andy