Happy Holidays

The Krause family has survived another holiday season! Christmas was wonderful with family and friends all around. My sister Genie is still in town and will be leaving tomorrow. She took me to chemo today, which began my 5th round.

It was nice having the week off during Christmas, but I am hopeful for this next round. I will meet with Dr. Richards on Thursday about my next steps. If the protein spike has decreased enough, I will go to Duke for the stem-cell harvesting. This process will only take 3-4 days. Then there will be a month back home before I have to return for the actual transplant. Dr. Long at Duke will decide whether or not I need chemo during that span.

The treatments have zapped my energy, but they are doing their job! I have had some swelling in my legs but that is manageable. I started seeing a physical therapist in Botetourt and that has helped my hip tremendously…this is a huge blessing! However, my hands are still hurting. Pray for them.

We feel like we are entering the second phase of this process and are hopeful for the future! God has remained faithful and we are thankful!