QUICK UPDATE...

Hi Friends,

Sorry about my blogging absence. We enjoyed a nice visit from Bill's brother, Ken, and his family. So, I used all of my energy for visiting with the relatives. We spent the 4th of July with them at our house, and on the 5th we took them out to the land. On the 6th, we went to see Toy Story 3 with them, which was a real treat. And on the 7th, they stopped by in the morning to say good-bye. I spent a few days afterwards resting from all of that activity, but it was definitely worth it:-)

I've seen Dr. Cohen twice in the last 2 weeks. It's been 3 months since my last Rituxan (chemo) infusion, and the lupus symptoms are starting to come back. Last week I failed the neurological exam, which meant I lost my driving privileges yet again. My headache is back with a vengeance as well, but for now I am able to handle the pain by taking large doses of Percocet. You know it's bad when your doctor says he's never prescribed that much percocet to anyone else before, but "I'm just glad we found something to help you." At least it's not morphine or dilaudid right now:-) I have an appointment to see Dr Karpouzas at UCLA in the beginning of August -- so we'll see what he thinks. Dr. Cohen and I would like to hold off on the next chemo until it's been at least 6 months if at all possible. I'm thankful that the Rituxan helps with the lupus -- but it's never pleasant to kill your entire immune system. I'm in no hurry to start catching infections, pneumonia, etc. until the chemo is absolutely necessary.

My kids and husband continue to be supportive and loving. I feel very content and loved. And the lazy days of summer are the perfect time for being ill.

Much Love,
Michele