Up Coming B3 Fight Events

There are a lot of fun and exciting fundraisers going on right now for The B3 Fight. Currently:

• In Nashville, TN the 5k on the Run is teaming up this weekend, May 1st to join forces to benefit The B3 Fight and young women in need! Hosted by Bill and Ilonka Deaton. http://www.illonkamusic.com/
• Relay for Life in McKinney, Texas  April 30th - Community Boot Camps - Relaying for Brenda.
• B3 Fight Garage Sale, teaming up with all the local "junk" in McKinney, Texas on May 22nd. All sales and proceeds go to The B3 Fight Trust.
• T-shirt Sales, Bracelets and Pins!! On Going....
• Church Car wash in Layton, UT (already took place April 17th ) Bake Sale and Car Wash to Benefit other members of the church battling cancer as well as The B3 Fight!
• Still Moments Photography - % of all picture orders go to The B3 Fight. On going...till Remission....

Bucket for the Cure

http://www.bucketforthecure.com

Brenda at C3 Staff Meeting

“C3 Staff honored Brenda at their weekly meeting on April 21st by presenting her a gift to commemorate her completion of the Red Devil chemo treatments and then laying hands on her as Pastor Mike Smith prayed for her and Nick. She was blessed and touched by Pastor Scott Roley’s words and the encouragement received from the staff. The toughest part of this event was to get her to sit in the middle of the room as Scott presented her with the picture. Our Community Life Director, Cindy Blom eased Brenda’s spirit by placing 3 chairs in the middle for her and Nick to join Brenda. The C3 Staff continue to bless Brenda and Nick through loving them well. For you other B3 Fighters, please accept our invitation, when you’re in Franklin to drop by C3 and meet these wonderful people God’s placed in our lives.”

Adios Diablo Rojo

"On April 6th the Staff of Christ Community Church was invited by Brenda and Nick to celebrate Bren's final Red Devil treatment; hence Adios Diablo Rojo. Thirty people raised their glass to Brenda for her courage to fight through the harsh effects the red devil had on her body. Bren and I raised our glass to the staff of C3 to thank them for their unceasing love and support through prayer, meals, and their presence. The celebration was held at La Hacienda, a Mexican restaurant close to C3. Bren and I were honored by the many that attended the celebration. Bren, for the first time, met several staff members and their family.
In hind sight, we can also celebrate God's loving-kindness and mercy in using the red devil to shrink her tumor down to almost nothing. Brenda told me the other day that "she knows she had to face the red devil to recieve God's power to heal through it." ~Nick

Chemo number 5

My visit today to the oncology ward brought some anxiousness as I began my next 4 treatments of a different kind of chemo (Taxotere). My appointment was early so I was up with Nick and anticipated just getting there, seeing Dr. Murphy and then settled into my easy chair to await the new drugs. Seeing Dr. Murphy went well. I have lost a few more pounds and my counts were good.

It wasn't too long when the ward really began to pick up the pace. No one was with me and I was managing all of it until the sudden rush of the business of the ward caught me totally off guard. My first vein that they tried failed. When they have to go into the vein at the bend of the arm, it always is a bit more stressfull. Between that and the sudden bustle, I could feel my emotions rising to the top and they began to spill over. Before I knew it, I was in tears. (I even tried to turn up my ipod with my piano music nice and loud to manage to noise, but that didn't work)

They had to give me benedryl for this first treatment to be sure I had no allergic reaction and it made me a bit drowsy. I put Nick on standby for coming and driving me home. I soon found that the tears were not gonna stop so I called him back and asked him to come sooner.

When he finally arrived, he could tell I was visably upset, but I soon drifted off into a more relaxed state and before I knew it, the treatment was done and we were ready to go home.
I was able to rest and nap for several hours when I got home and it felt good. I will return for my next treatment on May 6th and that will be number 6 (of 8). No more shots on the Friday after chemo anymore either. That part of the treatment is done - Yeah! Another one under my belt - it's a good thing.

Sonogram Update

We were VERY encouraged at the appointment today with Dr. Whitworth (the breast dr.) I had my first sonogram since my diagnosis and the tumor has shrunk within the margins. In fact we saw the Physician Assistant and she wanted us to wait for Dr. Whitworth to come out of a procedure so he could see how GOOD the progress of the tumor shrinking looked. Dr. Whitworth had a big smile on his face when he looked at his "tumor marker" and said, it is responding better than expected and we can proceed forward on schedule. We did ask the question if surgery might NOT have to happen, but he said that although the tumor has shrunk, they still have to go in and get the cancer cells within the margins to be sure I am free and clear after my last 4 chemo treatments. We were both very encouraged with the news and it looks like Thursday is a go for chemo number 5. I will need to have an MRI prior to surgery and then I will be ready for surgery the end of June. Overall it was a very positive appointment. P.S. As a surprise, my honey got me a new durag for riding the cycle today!

Chucked Full

I wanted to update the blog before we venture into this upcoming week. It is one that is going to be "chucked full" of doctor appointments and treatment and there is no telling if there will be time to check in with all of the B3 supporters once the alarm goes off tomorrow morning.


I have several dr. appointments this week and Nick has a "big" appointment on Wednesday for his "over 50" check up. Tuesday will be the day of my first sonogram since my diagnosis and after I have had 4 rounds of chemo. It will be interesting to see how the "red devil" has succeeded in shrinking this tumor. We are anxious to find out the results of that. Thursday will begin the next of the series of chemo treatments called Taxotere (4) and these will come every 3 weeks instead of two. I read over the paper this last week on the additional possible side effects and am getting geared up for this "new" adventure.
Our specific prayer needs this week will be for rest amongst all of this busy time. I am feeling good physically at this point in time and my prayer is it will continue. One side effect of this new chemo is bone pain, so prayer for the management of that will be helpful. Four more treatments of chemo and then we can move onto surgery.

Thank you to everyone for your prayers thus far and continual support. We are grateful for all of you. Brenda

Ham and Pegs

A few weeks ago it would have been hard for me to imagine that I would be on the back of the motorcycle enjoying a fantastic day of riding. When I was so sick I could barely pick my head up off the pillow and to now be out in the fresh air enjoying a beautiful spring day in Middle Tennessee is amazing to me.



We knew that the weather was going to be in the 80’s and although the Easter ham had 4 hours to cook, we planned it so we could pop it in the oven and hop on the bike to head to the Natchez Trace. As we drove along, I was awed and amazed at the strategic planting of the beautiful pink blossoming trees. The last time we were on the Natchez Trace, it was at the end of fall, all the leaves were gone and it was not pretty at all. We passed many a biker and others enjoying the absolutely gorgeous day. Along the way there are homes tucked in and out of the area. I kept thinking, boy these people have it made. Living back here in the beauty and splendor and then my mind got to thinking EXCEPT when that snow and ice hits and the need for medical care and groceries comes along. I am sure that beyond the birds eye view from the cycle there was a Walmart lurking out there somewhere, I just couldn’t see it.



We took a detour to get gas and ate at this little country store and I am talking country! We both had a roast beef sandwich and it tasted every bit of good to me and Nick was very much amazed that I ate the entire sandwich. A sure sign that my appetite is back at least for the moment. Perhaps it will add to the necessary padding I was missing when riding seeing I have lost over 15 lbs and that makes for a boney butt and not much comfort when riding on the cycle. Time for extra padding for the seat!



What was even more pleasurable was the fact that everyone was enjoying their Easter Sunday with their family and the traffic was minimal. That put my mind a little more at ease and I was able to relax a bit more than I normally do. All in all it was a good day and we made it back home just in time for ham and sweet potato dinner.



As I continue to build strength this week in anticipation of my sonogram and chemo treatment next week, continue to pray for sickness protection B3 supporters. This week is the time when my counts are prone to drop and my defenses go down. So far so good, and I hoping for a good outcome as we forge ahead.

This week....

This week has been pretty uneventful which has been a blessing in disguise. Sometimes with chemo, you get by from day to day and wonder when the other shoe will drop. So far this week has been a week of resting and enjoying some sunny weather here in Middle Tennessee.

I did find out today however that now my chemo treatments will be every three weeks for the next four treatments. I have to have a sonogram prior to beginning the next of the series so my Dr. can see the progress on how the "red devil" treatments worked in shrinking the tumor. I must admit this was a bit of discouraging news because I thought I would be ready to have my surgery by early June. Spreading them out every three weeks will delay the surgery and the radiation - can you tell I am anxious for this to be over. I am ready for my hair to start growing back and my strength to come back.

I am getting used to being bald though as I ran to answer the door the other day for the UPS man, I forgot to put my turban on. I am sure he had a story to tell that night at the supper table, I just chuckled to myself after it was over.

As I plod along these next few weeks I will have to ask my B3 supporters to pray for patience for me, as you know the saying, never pray for patience for yourself. And let me know if your gonna show up at the door - so you won't get a bold awakening like UPS! `Brenda

Round 4 Chemo

"As I type this update, I am enjoying a cup of applesauce. I am home now and settling in from having round four of chemo and the last of the "red devil" treatments. This is a huge landmark for me. With having gotten very ill after round 3, I was not so sure I wanted to go to round 4. Nick met me at the Oncology Lab just prior to them starting the infusion. I was watching the clock and sitting there seeing the "red devil" hanging outside the room where they mix the drugs. I kept thinking, you can do this Brenda, this is the last one of this kind.

I know that there are alot of people praying. The strength was there to push through one more and now I am praying that I will not become ill again from this treatment. My blood count was good, temp was good, but my white count was up which could be just part of having had the last infection. The Dr. said we need to move forward and keep pluggin along. I amazed myself that I shook my head in agreement.

Nick took this picture of Apple Annie (better known as Apple Ugly) and I at chemo. She is a family joke/tradition that was started this past Thanksgiving and my niece Rachel sent her to me just in time to come along for the "red devil" ride! She gets past from family to family every year and that family can take her anywhere they want. I knew she was gonna enjoy the oncology ward sporting her new red sweater!

For now, I am taking it hour by hour with this treatment. Keep on prayin and I will keep on fighting - with Apple Annie by my side. :-)" ~Brenda

What Cancer Can't Do

It cannot cripple love.
It cannot shatter hope.
It cannot corrode faith.
It cannot eat away peace.
It cannot destroy confidence.
It cannot kill friendship.
It cannot shut out memories.
It cannot silence courage.
It cannot invade the soul.
It cannot reduce eternal life.
It cannot quench the spirit.
It cannot lessen the power of God.

Relay for Life coming soon

To: Sarah Kelly
Date: Tue, Mar 23, 2010 at 12:27 AM
Subject: Relay for Life coming soon

"Hi Ladies

I am putting together a team of women to participate in the Relay for Life at the end of April. It's a benefit for the American Cancer Society, and from what I've heard, it's an amazing experience to be a part of. As women, I am sure we all know someone that has it, or has had it at one point in their lives. We have a boot camp girl in the 6am class whose mom was just recently diagnosed, so we will be thinking of her as we walk. If you have women in your life that are also fighting this battle, I would love to know about her so we as a group can offer support, prayers, etc.
I received an email from the coordinators and they need the names of the participants that are on my team (McKinney Boot Camps) along with what your shirt size would be, by Thursday.
If you want more info - you can google relay for life mckinney and it will pop up.
If you then decide you want to be on the team - please reply to this with your name and shirt size. So far here's the group:

Melody
Toni
Kike
Dee
Sarah
Jacque

Our limit is 15 for the group.
Please let me know if you have any add'l questions.
Thanks so much!
Melody Chandler"

Cancer can't erase DNA.... or sisters being sisters!!

Just a note to Brenda

I am Katelynn's mom who is Amanda's friend and meet you a couple of times. Just wanted to let you know that you are in my prayers and I hope you stay strong and fight this cancer. I know you have a wonderful sister and a great support system with your family, children and friends. Just wanted you to know we are thinking of you and pray for a quick recovery,

The Taylor Family,
Katelynn, Dennis, Dale

How you handle waiting in the ER while feeling nauseated

"It has now been three days and I am still shaking my head as to what the chemo has attacked this time. My sinus cavities! What I thought was just a runny nose, landed me in the ER. Enduring yet another IV and some fluids, antibiotics and drugs for pain. We did not expect this one as I thought I was doing ok after my treatment on Thursday. My sister came to help and spent 3 days. She cooked up some meals to go in the freezer and we did some crafting, but by Monday night I knew I was in trouble. Any temperature over 100.5 I have to call the unit. I could no longer hold any food down and we dressed and went on in.

I don't do well with pain and the sinus' are inflammed to say the least. I am now managing jello, applesauce and gingerale. As long as the meds stay down and the temp I will make it through this. Prayer, it's a good thing, need lots of it right now." Brenda

ER visit

Last night Nick took Brenda to the ER after her fever went up over 100.5. While under going chemo, patients should have to watch for any fever that hits 100.5 or higher. It is a danger zone. After many long hours in ER and being treated for infection, Brenda was released this morning just after 4 am! Please her in your prayers as you all have. Thank you for your love and support.

Third Round of Chemo Today

It is almost better to have my treatment early in the day. The oncology ward was quiet when I arrived there today at 9. They were down one nurse, but by 11, they were slammed. Amazing to see all the patients and their partners or friends there with them. It filled up pretty fast.

My vein held up pretty good this time and they were able to stay with the same one. As soon as the "red devil" was in, the nausea began to set in. The chicken strips that Nick picked me up from Zaxby's didn't look quite as appetizing as when I had ordered them this morning before he left for work. I ate them anyway just for protein sake.

When I saw Dr. Murphy today, he asked how I was doing and asked about any unusual changes, aches, pains. I explained the infection I had gotten and was on meds for and my severe shoulder pain and the fact that my eye sockets are dry all the time now to the point of altering my vision. He assured me that was all part of the chemo. When he came back in, to do the exam, I said oh, I forgot, one thing, the fact that I am now totally bald, he laughed, and said yep, that is all part of it too! I forgot that last time I was there, I had a full head of hair.

I have to say I am a bit nervous as to what this chemo treatment is going to hit in my body. Time will tell. My hair's gone, I am thinkin, what's left that it can bombard - that's scary for me. For today, I will keep pluggin on, wait and tackle whatever that may be. Might just need to put on some boxin gloves for this round.
P.S. The tumor has begun to shrink! That's a good thing - the "red devil" is doing what it's suppose to do! `Brenda

Going (almost) bald for Granny

This handsome little man needed a haircut as he was looking like an exploded q-tip when I got back from visiting with my mom. I usually give him a a short frat-boy haircut in the comfort of my kitchen but today when I said "Tyler-J, you wanna be bald like Granny"? He didn't hesitate to shrill with joy "Looka' like Granny"!! Now, for the sake of him having the attention span of a gnats behind (as appropriate for a 2.5 year old) and not wanting to cause blunt force trauma to his head with a pair sheers, Ty has gone "almost" bald for Granny.

I am thinkin' he's lookin' pretty honkin' G.I.Ty!

-Sarah

Hillside Sun

The sun is shining today here in Franklin and it is in the 70's. I began my day with doing some filing and paperwork and turned on the weather station, heard what the temp was outside and decided to take a blanket, go out to the hill near the apartment. I took a book, a sandwich, my phone, my ipod and yes my turban and planted myself on the side of the hill.

I have had a very keen sense of smell since getting chemo. I laid there with my eyes closed and breeze blowing, took my turban off and just smelled the air. I was reminded of the smell of tiny strawberry plants growing wildly in the field when I was growing up.

Sun always makes me feel better. I love that the Lord gave me a good day today and the energy to enjoy it. It will rain tomorrow, but that's ok, today was grand!

-Brenda

Unlike no other....

When you watch this video think as though Brenda is singing this song to her hair! ; )

What's cancer without a little sense of humor!!

Divine timing

My mom went for her second round of Chemotherapy on Thursday, February 25th. Up until that point she had not really lost a lot of hair, basically just some larger clumps, but if you know my mom and her hair, you'd know it would take about 100 fist fulls of hair to even create a small indentation. She has been blessed with lioness locks for sure. I arrived in Nashville on Saturday the 27th to find both of my parents looking very happy. Though my mom looked tired, she was still as beautiful as ever. She had "all" of her hair, or so it seemed, though she did experience some big chunking in the shower that morning. Sunday morning came and her head was very tender, though that is probably understating it. The hair follicles were VERY sore and it was causing her great discomfort. She managed to make it to church and used a pretty head wrap to help control the strays that were falling out uncontrollably. By the afternoon she was in tears from the pain and wasn't aware that her follicles would be so tender. I told her to come sit by me and I would run my fingers through her hair to help sooth the pain. Surprisingly it was helping a lot. So she put her head in my lap and just let me play with it for a couple hours. The act of running my fingers through it allowed the roots to release themselves and within a three hour period, she had lost about 95% of her hair....all the while her bangs holding out for dear life!!

Seeing my mom on Saturday wasn't much different than any other time I would see her after a long period of time. She always looks happy to see me and she looked "normal". It wasn't until last night when she put her head in my lap, watching her hair come out in my hands that it hit me... "my mom has cancer"... the more I saw her bald head come through, the more it sank in, "she's really sick". I wasn't suppose to come to Nashville till the the week of March 11th. My dad said it was Divine timing that I was here to do this for my mom because it left him feeling nauseated and sad. It was hard to watch him tear up as each stroke of her hair made the pile next to me bigger and bigger. I am not really sure how I even got through it, but as I tucked her into bed last night and I touched her head to say goodnight, I too knew in that moment, it was truly Divine timing and an honor to be able to help my mom let go of her hair.

She is beautiful bald, okay, well almost bald!! She is currently napping and I am waiting for her to wake up so that we can go ahead and shave the rest of it off. Her bangs are very tender and when I spoke with the oncologist nurse today, she said getting rid of the weight will probably help. I am glad this part is almost done for her. Losing your hair (for a woman at least) is like losing apart of what defines you. Losing her femininity. I hope when she sees her reflection, she will be able to see her pretty "small and bald" as a sign that she is fighting....

`Sarah Langdon-Kelly