Hey all,

Just wanted to report that Cilla had her weekly chemo treatment today. It was uneventful and she is feeling good today. Next week treatment day changes to Wednesday and our doctor returns from vacationing in India.

Best,

Steve

P.S. Attached is a picture of "Nana" Cilla with Casey Rex taken last Saturday.

Hey all,

Thanks to all of you who have posted comments on the blog. Cilla and I really appreciate your kind and positive thoughts. Nothing major to report medically--regular chemo treatment is tomorrow.
Yesterday we were visited by all the "kids" and our grandchildren and had a fun time at Barnes & Noble and the kiddie rides at the Walpole Mall. I know it doesn't sound like much but we are really learning to treasure small events like this. Cilla had a good day today so we went to the movies and saw "The Kids Are All Right". We both thought it was great.
So keep those comments coming and I will update you on any new medical events that come up.
Best to all,
Steve

Cilla's birthday

My Mom continues to go through her chemotherapy treatments and is taking it "one day at a time" (hence the blog title) but tends to have some days better than others based on how many days after she has her chemo injections. As of now, she gets them on Tuesdays so tends to have low energy during mid week and she improves by the end of the weekend in terms of symptoms and energy- Sunday and Monday are her best days. That said, BU Medical is changing her scheduled day of injection to Wednesday (starting in 2 weeks) so then her good days will be Monday and Tuesday.

On the good days, she's more interested in visitors and overall just feels better. Her appetite is up and she has even done some fun things like go to the beach and last weekend to Jane & Paul's farm with the Cunningham fam.

Another such good day was two Sundays ago when we celebrated her birthday in the Quincy Marina (pic above). Dad treated to a wonderful luncheon and we all had just the best time laughing and enjoying memories.

That day reminded us all about how fragile these moments are; that something we used to all take for granted such as going out to lunch together is now a rare happening. That is probably one of the most difficult things for my Mom as she is so social and has such a zest for living life to the fullest. As she is, for this small window of time, a bit on the sidelines, I know she absolutely loves socializing with all the people in her life anyway she can- whether by a quick visit, a card, email, or Facebook. We even hope this blog will be a great place for her to feel the energy and love of those who know her. And, of course, she feels your positive thoughts and prayers.

Well, it is Sunday so here's to a great day for Cilla!

Welcome to Cilla: Winning the Day!

In April 2010, Cilla was diagnosed with a rare disease called Amyloidosis or “Amyloid.” It was devastating news to learn that Cilla, our active, fun-loving, hard-working mother, wife, nana, sister, friend, colleague, aunt & cousin with a zest for life like no other would be “sidetracked” with such a serious disease.


Cilla was immediately referred to the Boston University Medical Center specialized treatment center for Amyloidosis, one of only 2 such treatment and research programs in the U.S. and the treatment journey began. For more information on the BU Amyloid treatment center, please see the link below.

Currently, Cilla is undergoing weekly chemotherapy treatments at BU Medical Center. She received an encouraging report last week that the chemotherapy is in fact working and that she will continue this weekly treatment throughout the fall. However, side effects such as nausea and constant “tingling” in the hands and feet must be endured.

Because Cilla is so very special and loved by an incredible network of friends and family, we wanted to create a site where everyone could “check-in” for treatment updates and also reach out to Cilla with words or stories of encouragement.

Thank you for visiting!