Well, I've waited quite a while to post because I thought I'd wait for some results to share. We still don't have results, but I'll give you an update anyway. The week or so after my last post was a little emotional and difficult for Tida and I. The unexpected and unknown news just seemed to hit us harder than in the past. I've recovered from that and I think Tida has, a little anyway. I've got the gloves back on and ready to go a few more rounds.

I've got some appointments this week. Lab work; fitting for a back brace to support the T-12 area (courtesy of the neurosurgeon-we'll see what it's like, I may be kind of stubborn about it); an appointment with the hematology oncologist; and a PET scan on Friday. It'll be a little busy, but I'll still be able to work at least some every day except one.

Then next week, we have an appointment at the Siteman Cancer Center in St. Louis for a second opinion. We'll start early Tuesday morning with lab work, then meet with the doctor. After that, it's up to him whether we have more tests run or not. We anticipate being there just one day, but they've told us we may need to come back Wednesday. We're just looking forward to trying to get a consensus on what's going on, then starting whatever treatment is required.

My hematology oncologist is weaning me off the steroids getting ready for any tests at Siteman. Normally I'd be okay with that, I just hope the leg pain doesn't come back in the meantime. I've had a little lower back pain that a few months ago I would've just accepted as my normal back issues, but now, we have to wonder if it's associated with the T-12 or lumbar areas. It seems to loosen up as the day goes on, so I think it's just a muscle issue, but it's frustrating that we even need to question it. Guess it's just the new reality.

I'll try to be a little more active in updating. I know there's a lot of interest, and so many of you are supporting us in all kinds of ways. Our neighbors continue to be incredible, and continue to do unexpected things for us. Again, all the support is overwhelming and there's no words to express our gratitude.