Play Time!

What a busy week and it's only Wednesday! After chemo, we went to a reception to honor my sister's women in leadership award, I went to the Wilson talent show - awesome!, and Chad's brother came into town from Colorado! We spent the weekend playing and visiting. Monday, Levi turned 2! He is such a big boy! He's talking like crazy, running around all over the place, and smart as can be! I think sissy's going to get a run for her money! Last night I got a night out with Stac and Heather for pedicures. A welcome respite to a very busy time! Today it's Monkey Joe's and birthday shopping! It's all a lot to do and I probably need to rest more, but I can't seem to help myself! Happy Spring Break! (even with the crummy weather!)

CT Scan

Good News yesterday!
My trunk tumors are responding well to the chemo treatments. There has been no new growth, there has been some shrinking of the existing tumors, and no growing of existing tumors. The plan is to continue to treat and scan until we find they are no longer responding. The brain lesions can be stable for an unknown period of time and the pain/ symptoms of the swelling can be controlled with the steroids.

We are very happy to receive good news from the doctors! We are still making play dates and loving on each other as much as possible. We appreciate all the prayers and support!

Speechless

Saturday's vendor fair was a HUGE success! We cannot even express to you all what your support means to us! There was such generosity and encouragement offered! It really does make all the difference in the world! Thank you so much to all who helped make the day possible!
If you were wondering, the fair was organized by my two best friends since kindergarten. They had a lot of help, but clearly they are awesome ladies!
I am feeling pretty good and continuing to make plans. We have a CT scan Monday at 9:45 and will find out more before chemo on Thursday. I am back on line again so I will keep you all posted.
Again, thank you so much for all your support!

MRI Results

We met with the radiologist today to find out the results of the MRI which would show the effectiveness of the radiation. The whole brain radiation was the most aggressive line of treatment and given at the maximum level.  The MRI yesterday showed no significant change in the brain. The lesions have not shrunk, reduced in number, or grown. They are "stable." There are no other options for treatment of the brain on this avenue. On any other avenue is not likely, but we will still consult the oncologist and the specialists in Chicago. I am back on a steroid 2x day to control swelling and make sure I don't get headaches. The goal is to be pain free as much as possible. There is no way to know what this all means as far as my prognosis except that it is grim news. We are now no longer able to count on medicine to help me, just prayer and the Lord. We will find out next week how the chemo is working and likely have some decisions to make. I spent time with my family today grieving, but now we will move on and continue to live each day to its fullest. It won't be easy. We appreciate all your strength and encouragement you send our way. We are planning some family outings and  hoping to make some great memories this spring. I am convinced that God is still in control and I am choosing to trust Him,

My Apologies for the blackout!

My computer crashed! Someone at Chad's work was able to fix it with no losses, but it took a while. I am committed to spend the next few days trying to catch up and reply to everyone. Thank you for your patience!

Front Page News!

The Pekin Times ran a very nice article about Lisa and promoting the fundraiser on March 19th!  Check it out!
http://www.pekintimes.com/news/x868517400/Fundraiser-being-held-to-help-Schmidgall-family

Lessons learned...even on a "non-school day"!

Again, don't get too excited....this is Katie (the hacker again), not Lisa.  I wanted to share some pictures from our President's Day Playdate!  (For those teachers who are reading this, you know that President's Day, Columbus Day, MLK Day, and Veteran's Day rank pretty high on our holiday lists!)  11 kids under the age of 8...three pregnant women...crafts...and lunch!?! 

Lisa, your ability to find strength and energy amaze me...I know that you have probably taught function charts, the themes of geography, and helped to build a plant cell at least 1,000 times each...I just wanted to thank you for continuing to teach us lessons each day.  I look at your positive attitude, deep love for all around you, your faith...and I feel that I have learned so much from just watching how you carry yourself and cherish each day! 

As you face the new challenges before you, know that you are deeply loved and looked up to by many!  Keep the lessons coming Mrs. S, and thanks for the fun playdate!

PS...I had to add this because it was too funny not too, also shows how much fun your house is!  (Don't worry the little one to fall was mine and he is fine!)