Rosie,
Don't beat yourself up too much on the constipation thing. The books hardly address it, no one likes to talk about it, yet I used to run into people in the hospital who told me it was one of the most difficult things to manage. I too am having problems with it, still, even though I am over three weeks past treatment. It has caused me to lose even more weight and I am sure is impeding my healing process. I actually did pretty well while I was actually being treated. This thing seems to cycle weekly now and I end up vomiting and not being able to eat or drink (or keep medication down) for several days at a time - not to mention dehydration. Not a pretty picture. I have done much experimenting with the laxatives and have not found a way to reach equilibrium. Once my diet has expanded to include fruits and vegetables (they're way to acidic and burn too much right now)I am sure that things will improve, not to mention getting off of the pain meds which play a big role in this. Those in OCF who haven't had problems with it are very fortunate indeed. I have followed your and Heathers plight closely and you will both be in my prayers every day.

Rosie:

We have no magic to send your way but most certainly wish we had a special wand to take away the pain you and Heather and your family are feeling.

We can say that despite your inability to post frequently because you will be where you are most needed, your friends here at OCF will hold you close in our hearts and share this excrutiating time with you in spirit.

You have been an example to all of us with the depth of your love as a mother and your willingness to advocate for the comfort and dignity of your daughter.Know that your aren't walking alone...

Sending a hug,

Kim & Dave

Dear Rosie,
I hope you can feel how sorry I am that you are going through this. To imagine seeing one of my babies endure this monster is more than I can do. My husband is fighting it, but he has also had a full life. Not to say that one life is more important than another, but at least he has experienced a lot more of this world. I'm sorry....I'm not getting my thoughts across too clearly. Just please know that there are people here who love you. Are proud of you. And only hope that they can be as strong as you, if need be.
God Bless You,
Mandi

Rosie, The American Cancer Socitiey has a great Kids Konnected program. I was diagnosed when our son, Sam, was only 13. So yes, I was concerned about his ability to process all that had happened to our family after my big surgery, treatment and then long recovery. I didn't want to make a big deal of the situation by immediately putting him in counseling for fear he would think he did something wrong. KIds Konnect gave him a voice, helped him journal his most private thoughts and most importantly hooked him up with other kids going through the same thing. He wasn't happy going to the first meeting, but I gotta say, after that first meeting Sam was hooked and looked forward to those Tuesday and Thursday night meetings. The American Cancer Society has many good programs available so make sure you check them out.

Both you and Heather will continue to be in my thoughts ......

Sincerely,
Donna