Nathan Robert Hill and Koren and Xeloda

Wow I can't believe it has been so long since I've posted an update I should have my journalist card taken away, it's not like we haven't had any news. I guess I can blame it on summer, a new baby, too much work but I really don't have a good excuse not to keep the updates coming. My new month's resolution is to do a better job on this blog. Our warrior has had quite the last few months, the peaks and valleys continue, our family was blessed on June 3rd with a beautiful 9lb 6oz baby boy, Nathan Robert Hill was born to Kristen and Josh and just to keep things interesting he didn't make it easy on mom and dad. Kris endured 16 hours of being induced only to have a c-section delivery. The long delivery, plus position of baby and size was rough on Kris who started to hemorrhage hours after the delivery, a scary time for all. Today baby and mom are doing great. I can't begin to explain how this has changed our lives, boy Reenie needed some good things to happen. Reenie was a huge help during the labor and now as her grandmothers duties have kicked in. It is quite amazing to see how Nathan has boosted Reenies spirits. Ryan's new girlfriend Krystal has a beautiful daughter Koren who we have been blessed to spend a lot of time with this summer. Koren and Reenie absolutely love each others company so much you would think they have known each other forever, this also has brightened our warriors days and has helped in the healing process, as our friends and family continue their unending support there really is nothing like a child's smile, hugs or kisses that help melt away your problems.

    This August marks the 22nd month that Reenie has been in treatment for the recurrence of the beast that is breast cancer. The strength one must have to endure almost 2 years of infusion chemotherapy (poison) is mind boggling, that strength comes from family, her friends and now more magical powers from the new little people in her life. Last week Reenie started a new chemo drug because the last one she was on for exactly one year became resistant to the cancer. Progression was found in 2 spots so the fear we live with everyday was realized and we needed to start a new treatment. Our couragous fighter started Xeloda last Monday which is an oral drug that is taken for 14 straight days, with 7 days off this is considered a cycle. During this time she will also recieve a dose of Avastin that is an infusion drug given every other week, this is a targeted drug to deplete the cancer cells of blood.  Xeloda's purpose is to shrink and eliminate the tumors.

   We are blessed in so many ways, even with all that Reenie is going through we do find many positives each day, thank you for all your prayers and thoughts..another blessing that has come out of our situation is Reen has reconnected with another group of high school friends that have made sure that Reenie has kept up her strength for this ongoing battle with lunches and meals, Debbie,Rhonda, Michele and Laura thank you so much your help this summer can not be measured.

Love to all......and believe!!!!