Sorry about being late on week 4′s update. The week was a pretty good week for Sam. Energy was still good, spirits still high. But toward the end of the week he started to lose a little hair each day, and voice stayed hoarse longer than the couple of hours after treatments–lasting into the next day on Saturday. His chest and back look like a bad sunburn, but he has a cream to rub on every day after radiation. Swallowing is getting a little more difficult. We did get some bad news last week. He had a bump removed from the back of his neck, just in the hair line, and it is malignant. The dermatologist, radiation oncologist and Dr. Just (chemo) are going to confer about the proper treatment. On Monday (16th) his weight was down to 155 (had been 162), so he got an extra “bag” for nutrition and suggestions for 2000 calories per day. Weight lose is expected during chemo, as are all the other things that are happening to him. He will be getting a CT scan on Thursday to see the progress of treatment and if more is needed.

I’m doing fine. Went to doctor Thursday and had dressing changed. After 5 days I can use band aids if I want instead of a bandage. And no full weight until I go back in two weeks. I have a walking boot but my ankle is still swollen and it puts pressure right on both incisions, so I just hop around using my walker instead of the boot.

Our wonderful friends (neighbors) have been keeping us supplied with meals and offers to help in any way. We are really fortunate to live in such a caring community. Thanks again for all the many cards we both have received and the many prayers that are being sent our way.