I am attempting to do a synopsis of Karri's progress since she returned to us from a rather
hellacious 2 weeks experience at the hospital in June. Her response to the Chemo, Hmmm? It is rather on the low end of "text book" as far as we can tell. She did very well the first 2 days and we were elated. We thought we had it made! Then she went through the days of achy bones and flu like symptoms. She was also nauseated a lot of the time. At the time it was painful to be around her and watch her suffer. However in her usual way, Karri met it head on and is fighting it all of the way.
A couple of positive things have happened. She is really not in pain anymore and is totally off her pain medications. And because her nausea was so great and so constant, the doctor prescribed a new drug for her, Marinol, which has pretty much taken care of her nausea and given her some appetite. However she is having difficulty keeping food down.We are going on a family vacation at the end of July and she is determined to go without the 2 machines she is connected to. Like I said, Karri is a fighter.
She is still retaining a lot of fluid in her abdomen and has to go get it drained a couple of times a week but further chemo should alleviate that problem. Today, on July 8, she is feeling good and smiling and joking and acting like a mom to the kids, that is to say, chattiing and giving advice.
Next Tuesday is her 2nd chemo treatment. I am very ambivalent about it. I am dreading it and looking forward to it. Hopefully it will help with her symptoms. When I look at how much progress she has made in the last 3 weeks I am thrilled. We will see what the next 3 weeks brings.. Love, Myrth
Happy Birthday Karri!! Final Chemo is 10/15 - hooray!!
The actual date of Karri's birthday is October 8th but we've been joyfully celebrating all week long. She's been able to go out to eat, see movies, watch Allie play volleyball, and attend church. We love watching her enjoy her favorite foods again. We are so grateful for all your support; it has been critical to help her to celebrate this birthday with gratitude for her return to good health. She continues to improve steadily each week. Pictured here: Allie (14), Brandon (24), Karri and Jerry, and Abby (6). Matthew and Jordan are away at school. Love from all of us to all of you.
Sept 13th: Happy Birthday Jerry!
The Robisons (sans Jordan away at school) celebrate. Karri has had a good weekend too! She is eating a healthy normal diet without nausea, and with the benefit of an epidural shot, she is beginning to regain some mobility. While her back pain is not entirely diminished, she has begun to get around with a cane instead of a walker - yay!
June 22: Welcome Home from the hospital Karri! Good Luck w/Chemo
The Robisons with Mother's Day gifts and the "Wrap Yourself in Our Love" quilt made by friends from church. L to R: Matthew, Brandon, Karri, Jerry, Jordan and Allie
May 31st - Jordan's Senior Prom photo op
Despite looking great, Karri is fighting post surgery complications including serious infection and debilitating, persistent nausea.
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Karri, I know how hard it is to go through so much medical trauma. I mainly understand from the caretakers side which your wonderful parents are undertaking. If they ever need a break. I know all about your IV pump and stuff from running Andrews. I would be happy to help in any way I can. If they need a break or just have a question. It is hard to see someone you care about suffer. You and your family are in our prayers. Love, Jill Harmon and Family
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