by leenova54 28 Dec 2011

Today I went in to discuss what they said at the Cleveland Clinic and Dr. Trehan agreed with the chemo combo that Dr. Pannell suggested. It is 3 days in a row of chemo for a max of 6 treatments but usually only 4. Then she asked if I might want to go ahead and just start treatment today so I said we may as well get going on it, otherwise we would have to wait another week and I detest waiting. She sent us off to have lunch and to come back at 1 p.m. so we did and then I got the first treatment. It’s almost midnight now and I feel fine, hopefully it won’t make me nauseous. I go back tomorrow and Friday at 3:30 and then I will see the doctor again on Jan. 3rd. Wednesday Jan 18th I will begin my 2nd set of chemo a little earlier in the day. Hopefully by then the pain in my right ribs that is almost unbearable will be gone and the nagging pain in my left hip that is making me limp will ease up. I am on Percocet for the pain and so far it isn’t doing a very good job but I am getting by and only John has actually seen how bad it hurts. Poor guy feels so bad that he can’t take my pain away. He said all he wanted for Christmas was for me to be out of pain. He doesn’t like when I talk about things he needs to know when the reality of it all sets in but some things have to be talked about.


This is a rare cancer, there is no cure, no clinical studies and no experimental treatments. Hopefully the chemo will bring on remission. That is the best we can hope for. It is actually still the same lung cancer, it has just metastasized into the bones. All prayers are still welcome!

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by lbrow 01 Jan 2012

Debra you continue to be in my prayers. As a nurse I have seen many miracles that even atheists could not explain away. I know personally God answers prayers and that he has a reason for everything. I pray for healing and less pain for you, most specially for Gods will and continued fortitude and strength for you. Have faith, I have confidence he will see you through it all and His grace will give you peace./Lillian

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 01 Jan 2012

Thank you Lillian, I believe also and He does answer prayers but His answer is not always what we want it to be so I keep that reality in the back part of my mind and I know that whatever is suppose to happen will. After the lung cancer and chemo He gave me almost 2 more years so I am hoping for at least that this time.

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by sewbadly 30 Dec 2011

Glad you have started your treatment.
Best wishes for a Happy New Year.

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 30 Dec 2011

Day 3 done, next chemo is Jan 18th-20th. Hope to be feeling better soon!

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by theduchess 30 Dec 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with you,Debra and John.
Hugs, Stella

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 30 Dec 2011

Thank you!

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by jussyc 30 Dec 2011

Keep them Boxing gloves on Debra, then rest as much as you can. Huemungous Cyber Hugs to you.

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 30 Dec 2011

Oh yes, I fight when I need to and rest when I want. The good thing about retirement is I can do what I want when I want, well, more like when hubby wants since they won't allow me to drive!

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by airyfairy 29 Dec 2011

My dear Debra, I have not been on Cute much as we are away at the moment. My thoughts, love and wishes for your pain to go away are coming to you across the miles. Just hang in there. All love Sarah.

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 30 Dec 2011

Thank you Sarah, I have love flowing from all over the world, it boggles my mind! My Mom loved each and every angel on my tree, Dad was mostly interested in what I got from Germany cause he was there when he was in the army during non war time.

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by drro 29 Dec 2011

Dear Debra, You are in my constant thoughts throughout each day! I lift you up to Jesus in prayer every time I think of you and your family and I pray for you and your family's strength & healing, healing & strength! God bless you, keep you pain & nausea free, and may He charge your spirits and send them high and heavenly! God Bless you! Hugs across the wires! ro

2 comments
leenova54 by leenova54 30 Dec 2011

Thank you, felt a little nausea last night but fell asleep in my chair before I could even take a pill for it and now it's morning after chemo day 2 and feeling OK. Chemo again today then not till the 18th so YEA, doing good!

drro by drro 30 Dec 2011

Yes! Prayer does work!! Praise God!! Thanks for letting us know!

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by greysewist Moderator 29 Dec 2011

Well, you're taking some action. That sure has to beat sitting around thinking about it and what they might do. Good on you, especially for your 'tough as old boots' attitude. That will be your best ally, I'm sure. Thoughts and positive encouragement are heading to you from all points of the globe. Just keep on swimming!
Marianne

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 30 Dec 2011

Thank you, I am not the type of person to give up on anything so you can bet I will be here next Christmas too!

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by bowlds 29 Dec 2011

I'm hoping your treatments will be tolerable. Stay positive and remember all of us care about you.
Cathy

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

So far so good. Had chemo yesterday and today, again tomorrow then off till the 18th. I'll stay positive!
Hugs, Debra

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by ramona 29 Dec 2011

Debra,
I think of you often and what you must be going through. I now it has to be so very hard on John to not be able to help like he wants. I pray that God will take away your pain and put this terrible disease in remission. Keep up the fight!

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you. Yes, it is hurting John to see me in pain, if my ribs would stop hurting I'd be doing great. We did an x-ray yesterday to see if it is broken ribs or the cancer. Day 2 of chemo done today. Feeling OK so far.
Hugs, Debra

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by grandmamek 29 Dec 2011

I just read this. I keep praying for you every day. I hope this chemo will result in remission for you. Hugs, Mary

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you Mary, I am hoping this chemo is the right thing so get to remission. Day 2 of chemo was today, go again tomorrow and then not till the 18th, so far so good!
Hugs, Debra

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by asterixsew Moderator 29 Dec 2011

Debra, I am thinking positive thoughts for you and your husband.

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you, always positive thoughts, prayers, blessings, hugs, everything helps make my day better!
Hugs, Debra

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by pennifold 29 Dec 2011

Dear Debbie,

I was at Meganne's yesterday and we were talking about how wonderfully brave you've been. I just wante to know that you are an inspiration to me and I am sure to everyone else on this forum. I pray that you don't get too sick with this treatment, be assured of my thoughts, love and prayers as you face this trial. Love and blessings Chris

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you Chris. I maintain my strength from all the love that is sent my way though people like you and Meganne and everyone on this site. Shirlene said she thinks God sent me to this site and I have to agree with her.
Hugs, Debra

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by nonna57 29 Dec 2011

Debra and John, thoughts and prayers sent your way. Pauline :)

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thanks so much Pauline, I accept all forms of blessings!
Hugs, Debra

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by almag 29 Dec 2011

Hi Debra - thinking of you constantly and sending thoughts of comfort and success with your treatment.
Hang in there!!!
AlmaG.

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you, day 2 with chemo down, one to go then off till the 18th. Feeling good so far!
Hugs, Debra

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by mary51 29 Dec 2011

Debra, I am sending you trillions of hugs, pray for you every day God bless you, may year 2012 brings you and your family all God's strength and blessings.

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you Mary, hugs are a big help! I get my strength from those around me including all the ones who live in this little box on my desk!
hugs, Debra

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by devon 29 Dec 2011

Sending you big hugs and prayers your way!!!! DeVon

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

And that's not all, LOL! I'll send you a private but, I cried, hubby almost cried, all happy tears!

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by marthie 29 Dec 2011

You are in our thoughts and prayers.Hang in there girl. Hope and trust.

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you, I can't but help hang in there, I am a tough old bird.
Hugs, Debra

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by sewdeb 29 Dec 2011

Debra I will continue to pray for your remission and for strength for your love ones, too. I know how hard it is on the family - I lost both my parents to cancer. Your attitude is amazing and that is half the battle! Don't quit fighting this. Hugs, Deb

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you, so sorry about your parents, that is hard and you have to keep up on your health too since you are at risk! I will never stop fighting and with all the cuties, I can't help but be positive!
hugs, Debra

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by katydid 29 Dec 2011

We all pray for your remission. Hope the chemo treatments go well. Keep us posted. love, Kay

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Me too Kay, 2nd treatment done, another tomorrow then done till the 18th. So far good.
Hugs, Debra

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by gerryvb 29 Dec 2011

Debra, I wished there was something we could do, but all we can do is pray and think of you. Hope the treatment will make the pain less for you.so here my hugs and prayers.

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Gerry, you have all already done so much for my attitude, I smile when I read these posts and my minds leaves the pain behind. Thank you so much for caring!
Hugs, Debra

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by jerrib 29 Dec 2011

Dearest Debra: My prayers are with you. I pray that the treatments ease your pain and it goes into remission.
Warm Hugs
Jerri

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you Jerri, I am sure I am going to be feeling better by Summer! Just want to sit on my patio in the sun and watch the world go by because of all the love sent to me!
Hugs, Deb

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by obaachan 29 Dec 2011

Deb, Keeping you and John in my daily thoughts.

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you, we are going to do great with everyone thinking of us and praying and my angel tree!

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by anangel 29 Dec 2011

Debra,
I am still praying continuously for remission for you, for an end to the pain, and strength for you to
withstand these further treatments without bad side effects. My greatest prayer for you is that the Lord will heal your body completely, and you can feel normal once again!
Hugs,
Angel

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you so much Angel. So far, after the first treatment I am feeling pretty good! I have to go eat a bowl of cereal before my parents come to see my angel tree! I have a peaceful feeling after reading and responding to all the posts I found when I got up this morning! So many people from around the world who care about me! I am truly blessed!
Hugs, Deb

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by sigrun 29 Dec 2011

Good thoughts and wishes to you Debra.
Hugs, Sigrún

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you Sigrun, I am fighting and that is what matters, I refuse to give up!
Hugs, Deb

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by michemb 29 Dec 2011

Dear Debra and John,
So sad to hear about all this, I say a special prayer for you every night. Continue to be positive and believe that this chemo will work. I will continue to pray for you all,
Hugs and warm embrace,
Michelle

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Oh Michelle, this is good news, they think chemo can maybe put me in remission and with all the prayers and angels, how can it not. God wouldn't want this many cuties upset with Him, lol!
Hugs, Deb

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by keeponsewing 29 Dec 2011

Deb, you were in my thoughts and prayers yesterday. I hope you will stay positive over this, but keep focused on the One who is truly in charge. Many of us here understand a little of what you are facing. But you have lots of friends lifting you in prayer and thinking positive thoughts for you too. Hugs, Terre

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you Terre, I am always positive and I know that with all the prayers He is being bombarded with I have to get better, He needs a break, lol! No rest for the weary or God!
Hugs, Deb

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by judybell 29 Dec 2011

Debra, my heart hurts for you and John. As I read your update tears are flowing for you, but most of all prayers are going up at the same time. Hugs, Judy

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Oh, no tears Judy, only happiness allowed in my room now, lol! I am feeling good about this!
Hugs, Deb

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by meganne 29 Dec 2011

It is good that they are going to give you chemo, it means they haven't given up on you, neither will we dear friend and I know YOU won't. I know how difficult it is living with constant pain, that in itself is debilitating enough without the added threat.
You just remember, when you're sitting in the chair, having the life-saving chemo pumped into your veins, that every Cutie who knows you is right there with you.

Miracles CAN happen, miracles DO happen and when you have all these Cuties praying for you, you HAVE to believe!

Hugs and love, Meg

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thanks Meganne, it is hard to imagine all the cuties in the chemo room, hubby had to SQUEEZE into the little chair in the corner, lol. Little cubicle with some glass block windows.
Hugs, Deb

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by ansalu 29 Dec 2011

My dear one hope that this new chemo-block helps and that the hips doesn't hurt anylonger. It must be very hard for your hubby to see you in such a pain and cannot help you...
Big hugs my sweetie
Bettina

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you Bettina, yes, it is very hard on him, I saw him cry 3 times this month and he is not a man who shows his emotions. I'm gonna do great!
Hugs, Deb

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by beatie58 29 Dec 2011

Debra & John hoping you are feeling ok after your first chemo. Love and blessings Huge cyber hugs Sally

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you, so far so good, going to go have a bowl of cereal in a minute before my parents get here to see my Angel tree!
hugs, Deb

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by starlizard 29 Dec 2011

Love and hugs, good thoughts and prayers, Debra... going up and out for you.

Liz

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you, they are all appreciated and helping I am sure!
Hugs, Deb

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by cfidl 29 Dec 2011

Good thoughts and prayers to you Debra. christine

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you, all are welcome and I am sure they will help!
Hugs, Deb

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by lidiad 29 Dec 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with you and and John. A huge hug and love, Lidia

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you so much, all prayers and good thoughts and wishes and hugs appreciated!
Hugs, Deb

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by bumblebee 29 Dec 2011

My heart goes out to you and your family.
Warm Hugs and prayers.

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you, will keep everyone updated and feeling good about this!
Hugs, Deb

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by fannyfurkin 29 Dec 2011

You can count on my prayers. Thinking of you and John.
Alice.

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you Alice dear. We are going to hang in there and make it, I am sure!
Hugs, Deb

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by moyed 29 Dec 2011

So sad for you debra, my prayers and blessings. hugs Helen

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Oh Helen, don't be sad, I am going to do great, I just know it! Prayers, blessings, happy thoughts all welcome!
Hugs, Deb

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by shirlener88 29 Dec 2011

Debra, my prayers are with you and hubby. You know how I feel about this and know that with all my heart - that I could be there to give you a hug - so the next best thing - is: (((((((((((Debra))))))))))))
a cyber hug.

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Aww, thanks Shirlene. This is a tough time but so far so good. Haven't had breakfast yet but am heading there are soon as I do these responds. Stomach is OK, chemo #2 will start this afternoon!
Hugs back, Deb

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by manami 29 Dec 2011

Dear Debra, I think of you so often. My prayers are with you. Hopefully the treatment will be successful. Love and hugs, Yoriko

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you Yoriko, I feel it is going to do a lot of good and give me much more time! Thanks for your prayers.
Hugs, Deb

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by twee 29 Dec 2011

thanks for the update, hugs and prayers
T

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you so much, I will keep everyone updated on this! Scary!

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by crafter2243 Moderator 29 Dec 2011

Thank you for the update. My prayers are with you. I pray that you will continue not to be nauseous and the pain in your bones will be lessened. Try to explain to your husband that it would ease your mind if he was aware of the things you want him to know. My heart goes out to him as well. It is difficult to watch a loved one suffer. Hugs for you.

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you, yes, he is hurting, he just turned 65 and has always had worse medical problems than me, he has type 2 insulin dependent diabetes, very high blood pressure, high cholesterol and is way overweight and all I got asthma when I was 26, that scared us a lot but compared to this, no problem!
hugs back at ya, Deb

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by capoodle 29 Dec 2011

Thinking of you often and continued prayers. Anita

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thanks, I will hang in there and keep you all updated!

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by babie 29 Dec 2011

My thoughts and prayers are with you and and John.

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you, yes, I am not the only one needing prayers, this has been very hard on him, he does not show emotion very often but I have seen him cry 3 times this month!
Hugs, Deb

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by lindaavolio 29 Dec 2011

My prayers are with you tonight and everynight til you send a note saying ... Yea ! I'm in remission.
BIG HUGS ! ! !
Linda

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thank you Linda, How can I not win with so many cuties across the world pulling for me! I will send that message!!
Hugs, Deb

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by mranderson 29 Dec 2011

Debra, you have been in my thoughts a lot lately. Put all your faith in the Doctors and keep that fighting spirit. Words cannot express my feeling for you at this time, all I can say is 'fight like hell to beat this disease'. Hugs Marg

1 comment
leenova54 by leenova54 29 Dec 2011

Thanks so much Marg, I am planning on kicking ass! I have so many people in my corner that I can't lose! No parent should have to bury their child so I don't want my parents to have to. Dad is 76, the youngest of 4, his one sister died at 81 but he has a brother 84 and a sister 79 so I think he will be here a while!

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