Don Wood

Joe, prayers comin' at ya. Don

Great picture, David. It is good to see what you look like, since the bike picture had you too far away. I like the rainbow effect. And I am impressed with all the money you have helped raise for such a good cause. You are a man of many delightful surprises, dude! Don

It is not unusual to be depressed after being diagnosed with cancer, even if the outcome is good. It is a jolt to be counted among the survivors because we would rather not have had to deal with cancer at all. It is like our bodies have betrayed us and our image of ourselves as perfectly healthy is destroyed. I was diagnosed 8 years ago with prostate cancer, and although the treatment left me clear, six months later I was depressed, and couldn't help anyone. With good friends and family, I was able to work out of the depression. I hope the same for your mother -- that she will be able to shake this depression -- many of us have, and more than once. Hang in there. Don

Annie, my prayers are with you and Tim. Don

Denise, my wife also had her head shaved when the hair started falling out in clumps. In the long run, it was easier on her. You have my prayers for you and your mom. Don

Thanks to all of you for your excitement for us and your good wishes. Things continue to move along smoothly. I will keep you posted. Your support helps very much. Don

Sam, my prayers are with you. Don

You need to keep perspective -- you have a job, a family, friends. You need to give those areas of your life attention, too, so that means less for your mom, whether she has cancer or not. I would encourage others to visit with your mom, whether she prefers you or not. Sometime, it is just getting used to someone else. If you try and do everythign, the stress will lower your own immune system, and you may get a serious illness, physical or mental. As a caregiver, you must take care of yourself first, or you will be no good to anyone. And I like the suggestion to scream -- I have done that -- unfortunately, at times I did it in earshot of my wife, and I should have done it where she couldn't hear me. We need to vent our emotions, and this is one good place to do that. I wish you courage and energy. You will need it. Don

Sounds like a good report to me. Hang in there. Don

Hang in there, Andrea. I hope you are carving out a bit of normal life in your weekly routine that does not include "cancer". Caregivers need to do this to keep going. The second thing is to have someone to lean on emotionally other than the patient. Best regards. Keep the hope. Don

Dawn, so sorry for the loss of your mother. Life is not fair -- that is the way it is, unfortunately. All we can do is respond the best way we can to what comes our way. I think your mom would want you to remember her and to get on with other things in your life, so something positive can come out of all this for you. Don

Very exciting news, Eileen! Congratulations, grandma! Don

Becky, I consider "no growth" and "no new tumors" a good thing. Don

Hope, sorry about your mom's cancer increase. Does sound like a plan is in place, and I hope that works for her. Take care. Don

Works for me, Dave!

I think you are probably referring to Dr. Bryzinski (not sure of the spelling either). His treatment is very controversial and expensive. I would not send my wife there and I live in the Houston area. I'm sorry your step mom has chosen that route over others,but it is her life. Don

Norme, I'm glad you come back again and again. I'm sorry the news on Buddy is on the down side, but I pray things will get better for you two. Hang in there. Don

Waiting is the hardest part. I wish you and your mom well. Don

Hi, PeeJ! Congrats on beating the lung cancer and catching it early. If your scenario is correct, it sounds like they were out to fire you. I think, too, you can appeal about the unemployment -- I think you can go to an arbitor or something. I would check into it. Don't just roll over and accept it. I hope you can find another job soon. Good luck. Don

Beautiful, Deb! So glad you all got to make the trip and be a family together. What a gift! Blessings. Don

I am saddened at the loss of your mom. Thanks for letting us know. I hope you will continue with us for support in the days ahead. May God bestow His grace, love and peace on you and your family. Don

Janet, things sounds pretty good to me. Seems like the treatment is working, your attitude is good and you have a terrific son and husband to support you. Sounds like the positive ledger far outweighs the negative one. Blessings. Don

I think I'm losing it! That almost makes sense! Ha! Ha!

Becky, very well said! I was thinking of what to say, and you said it. I have had two bouts with prostate cancer and won both battles. I went to a prostate info and support site right after the first bout and stayed several years. Then I dropped out to move on. Just before the second bout, I went back on to give hope to others, and then dropped away again during the second bout. I am presently back again, there to bring hope to new people. I agree, that whatever the reason, you all are most welcome here, and I hope you will remain as long as it is mutually beneficial in your hearts. Don

Marlon, have a great birthday celebration! Congratulations! Don