Why the Redwood Forest slideshow?

Judy had always loved trees, and in 2008 we spent some time among the California Redwoods. Some of the ingredients in Judy's chemo cocktail were derived from trees (not Redwoods but Yews). We always knew that Judy loved the trees, and the trees got their chance to repay her affection.



Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Another Triathlon Behind Us--And A Transfusion Ahead


Last weekend, Judy and I were in the Seattle, WA, area for yet another half-Ironman triathlon. As you can tell from the picture, it was a beautiful day for racing, even if it started out a little foggy and cool. Lake Stevens is set among forested hills about an hour north of Seattle, in a beautiful part of the US. We are truly thankful to race organizer Bill Burke to have brought us out here--he's been a great supporter and friend. Even though there is always a lot of work to be done, every race brings with it great moments that show us how lucky we are.

When we got back to Lubbock yesterday, Judy had more lab work done. Now we know why she had been bruising up so easily: Her platelet count was down to a paltry 7. In a way that is good because it appears that the chemo cocktail is doing the trick, but it also means that Judy is pretty vulnerable. So, tomorrow morning (Thursday) it's off to the hospital for a few bags of fresh blood--sounds like Dracula, doesn't it? This should also help her perk up a little, because she has been quite tired, even though one wouldn't know it from seeing her go after things at work or at the races.

Right now it is doubtful that she is going to receive another round of chemo next week, as initially planned. Well, we'll take it the way it comes.

Jürgen


Here's the full crew:

6 comments:

aka Kathy said...

It will be good to see you at Camp Beagle in a couple of weeks.

HUGS!

MichelleL said...

Glad to see you looking so well Judy despite the dismally low platelet count! You seem to be rolling with the new chemo regimen and continuing to have some wonderful trips at the same time. Seattle looks refreshingly cool compared to Texas! Don't know if you will be at the HHH next week but I am sitting this year out due to Cal starting Kindergarten next week. My brother will look for you there though. I am going to come to Lubbock in the fall to see you. Lots of love and hugs to both of you! Michelle

Cindi said...

Hi Judy!

Checking in from Vermont. Time for me to shake off the "mtn bike" mindset and get focused on the upcoming Green Mtn Stage Race. Am up to my eyeballs in working out schedules and such.

This morning got to play in the garden-hard to believe that our growing season is just about over (considering that it never really got started this year).

You're in my thoughts and prayers!

Hugs!!
Cindi :)

Anonymous said...

Hey Judy,
In reading Jurgen's posts it sounds like you are up for a rough week. I sure miss seeing you at St. Paul's..although john and I have been in South Dakota some this summer, so you may have been there when I wasn't. You are always in my prayers.
Love you,
Becky Orem

waynelorane said...

Glad to hear you had a good time in WA. Now suck down/in? that blood and let it replinish you.

We're on "Baby boy Wester Watch." could happen any minute now. We'll keep you posted.

Take care, dont' wear your little self out!
Love,love,love, WayneLorane

Unknown said...

I just wanted to say hello from Austin. I remember the good times I had riding with you and Jurgein. I am sorry to hear of your diagnosis and I am sending well wishes your way. Next time you guys come to Austin let's go ride.