The Taber Family Blog

Well, I think I’m way overdue to say thanks to all the wonderful friends and family I have. The flood of prayers, happy thoughts, cards, ecards and homemade dinners for my family have been truly amazing. It seems that every day I get wonderful uplifting comments, cards and even 1, 2 and 3 course homemade dinners from friends that really make things easier on us here at home and certainly for Denise too. Even though I’m not in a condition at present to say thanks face to face, I want you all to know that all of this is GREATLY appreciated and has really made an impression on my kids. Thanks so much! We have been blessed with a wonderful family and equally wonderful friends.

This weekend was pretty much a stay home weekend with the near non-stop rain and this rash on my face. It’s very uncomfortable and itchy and I’ve asked my chemo Dr. about anything further I can take or use topically to reduce the rash or even the tightness and dull pain. The Mary Kay skin treatment regimes from Denise have been helpful in keeping my skin from drying out too much, but I’ve got to learn to stay away from mirrors. They make me feel like I’m looking at someone else who I hardly recognize.

I had two radiation zaps on Friday and another this morning. At this point my mouth is starting to get a little dry and eating things like bread can sometimes be a challenge. I’ve been using the Biotine mouthwash and dry mouth toothpaste with flouride several times a day and that seems to help.  But you know what? Other than this rash, I still feel great! I have lots of energy, much like a dog who needs to get out and run around after being inside too much. I play my new guitar many times each day as a creative release and have been working on some new original songs and chord arrangements. And during the week, I’m able to work here at home and be quite productive.  My radiation appointments have been changed to 8:30am each day, so I’m able to get that 20 min treatment out of the way early and get back to a full day’s work.

And finally, (and probably most importantly) I have noticed the tumor is indeed getting smaller. I have no problems breathing anymore and sometimes even forget there is a tumor in my mouth. Definitely good news.