Doctor Paul, MD

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Chemo – first treatment

January 26, 2016 by Paul Williams 45 Comments

Once again I am humbled and thank you all for your prayers, cards, and help during these difficult days. God is good all the time.

Last Thursday Theresa received her first dose of chemo, a combination of herceptin – and antibody, and taxotere a true chemo agent. Because of Theresa’s weakness and nutritional status, her Oncologist decided to give her only 1/2 the dose this time. Once again we had some difficulty. Theresa knew that benadryl effected her differently than most, instead of sedating her it causes severe agitation and restless legs. She got a high dose IV and was miserable the four hours she was there. She was also given IV steroids to limit the chance of allergic response. Well, we found out that she responds poorly to steroids as well. It caused severe panic attacks and insomnia. She had to take another dose of steroids the next day, so it was three days before her panic and anxiety calmed down enough to relax, her insomnia took longer to improve. It wasn’t until Sunday evening that she felt somewhat better again. For her next dose This coming Thursday, will use a lower dose of steroids the day before, during and the day after and try a different antihistamine she has used before. If she has the same response, then will have to switch out the taxotere to a newer agent that doesn’t need the premedication. Today is a good day, spirits are good, though she is very tired and just walking in the house tires her.

We had a second opinion today from another Oncologist. He is in agreement with the care we are currently getting, no new thoughts. He reiterated (from a human wisdom perspective – which is very limited) that Theresa’s cancer such as it is (aggressive, essentially no receptors to attach to), if treatment is successful, will give her about 2 years, without it or if not successful, maybe 2-4 months. The two years is optimal, if she can maintain her strength and nutritional status. The chemo has made her nauseated, caused her abdomen to hurt, giving her flu-like symptoms, achy bones and muscles and intermittent stabbing pain. She also now has blurred distance vision as well. Because of her history of headaches, we will be getting an MRI tomorrow.

Last night I couldn’t sleep, my emotions getting the best of me. I was pretty tearful during my devotions this morning. It is interesting that some days go well with emotions under control and other days, the emotions won’t stay under the surface and instead come out with ease. We are taking one day at a time, looking too far down the road causes too much pain. I too pray for a miracle, but as Christ prayed, not my will but Yours be done. We are surrendered. Obedience is required, but it doesn’t take away the pain or anguish. This hurts. I love my wife dearly. God has been here before with His son. He knows what it is like. He promised to walk with us, comfort us, help us. This obstacle is the way we must go. Down this path we must go and through it we will enter a deeper understanding of our maker.

Note from Theresa: Paul and I are deeply grateful for all of you who have been lifting us up in prayer. We want to thank everybody. I have been too weak and exhausted to write thank-you letters, but please know how much your words of encouragement have meant to both of us. We are blessed to have such amazing brothers and sisters in Christ. God is so good. With love, Theresa.

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Filed Under: Breast Cancer - our new normal

Comments

  1. Rose Weed says

    January 26, 2016 at 4:37 am

    You all continue to be in my Prayers, keep positive the body listens to the mind.

    Reply
  2. Mara says

    January 26, 2016 at 4:39 am

    We cry with you. Theresa, please do not worry about thank you notes! Let us love you the way your family has loved us and others in so many ways. You are such a beautiful and amazing woman! You will always be my hero. A hero of such an amazing faith. Our focus has turned toward God! We love you and your family always! Love, Mara~Leo-Dominic

    Reply
  3. Doris and Bill Brumsickle says

    January 26, 2016 at 5:04 am

    Our continued heart-felt wishes for all of you.

    Reply
  4. Annette Eaton says

    January 26, 2016 at 5:06 am

    My heart goes out to your whole family. I am praying for you all.
    Theresa, you are so brave and I pray the chemo will work for you.
    Thanks so much for sharing your story. God Bless you all.

    Reply
  5. Sandy McAllister says

    January 26, 2016 at 5:12 am

    Praying for you Theresa, as well as for Paul and your beautiful children. I pray that God holds your family in the palm of His hand. Just as His word says.

    Reply
  6. Kathy westmiller says

    January 26, 2016 at 5:34 am

    Words fail me. Know you are loved and in my prayers.

    Reply
  7. Edna says

    January 26, 2016 at 5:38 am

    Ed and I continue to pray for both of you and your children.

    Reply
  8. Talk and Lori Neumann says

    January 26, 2016 at 5:39 am

    After going through a very similar cancer we are praying for complete healing and a comfort that only God can give you. We will be adding you to our church prayer chain and our men Saturday prayer meeting.

    Reply
    • Talk and Lori Neumann says

      January 26, 2016 at 5:39 am

      Tal not Talk

      Reply
  9. Carolynn & Phil Gregory says

    January 26, 2016 at 6:49 am

    You and Theresa are so amazing. Our prayers are with you both and your family.

    Reply
  10. Jon and Nicole Wiley says

    January 26, 2016 at 7:02 am

    We are continuing to pray for supernatural intervention and comfort.

    Reply
  11. Priscilla Christenson says

    January 26, 2016 at 7:27 am

    Will pray for an easier time with the medications and that they work. Praying also that you can both get some good rest! Chris was suggesting you read Isaiah 41:10, if you haven’t already. Sending our love!

    Reply
  12. Holly Orr says

    January 26, 2016 at 8:59 am

    Dr. Paul and Teresa, we pray for you and your family every day. Please know you’re in our hearts and thoughts. I hope Teresa can find a treatment that agrees with her soon. Hugs to you and yours.

    Reply
  13. Michelle says

    January 26, 2016 at 11:20 am

    Hang in there Paul and Theresa. Cancer is no respect or of age or financial status or any other factor you want to plug into the equation. My husband and I have been dealing with a combination of ovarian and uterine cancer . I to had adverse reactions to my chemo cocktail and felt sort of angry that I was sick and this cure or treatment was making me sick too
    I suffered extreme exhaustion , there were evenings when my husband would build a fire in the fire pit and we would sit out on a summer evening and he would chat about his day and I could hardly keep my eyes open it too much strength. I held responsive conversations in my mind as my husband talked away and I would sworn I was talking to him out loud , I soon discovered that if I was tired well it was real and I curled up on the bed with extra blankets and my faithful dog and listened to marathons of my favorite tv show. The fatigue passed and got better 3just about the time I was scheduled for another round of chemo. I too had severe bone pain. I still on occasion feel that same ache. This journey has deepened my prayer life and walk with the Lord. I remind myself daily His grace is sufficient I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me and so many other promises in the bible. You and Paul are on my prayer list and I consider it an honor to pray for you Sister. Hang in there. God is great and you are not alone

    Reply
  14. Jill Trentlage Potter says

    January 26, 2016 at 2:20 pm

    You two are in my prayers and I pray that you have peace and strength through this difficult time and that you can always feel surrounded by, and supported by God’s love.

    Reply
  15. Kerri Fosnacht says

    January 26, 2016 at 3:25 pm

    You are all in my thoughts. Praying for your family.

    Reply
  16. Chuck Curtis says

    January 26, 2016 at 5:34 pm

    We are praying for you all.May our Lord Jesus make His presence and grace be felt in a powerful way. He is faithful. Ps.34:19. love,Chuck&Maureen

    Reply
  17. Ashley Johnson says

    January 26, 2016 at 5:38 pm

    I have been and will continue to be praying for healing as well as peace for your entire family!

    Reply
  18. Debbie Fine says

    January 26, 2016 at 5:52 pm

    My Dear Williams Family,
    Without going into too much detail, thank you for the opportunity to spend the day with Theresa yesterday. My favorite part was witnessing the love Theresa has in her heart for God, and each member of her family. Even in your deepest grief, it was a beautiful day that I will always remember. I witnessed the children’s love of their Mom. I wiped tears but also heard forgiveness, and love that touched my heart forever. Theresa’s real pain is for her family, she is constantly aware of her Husbands care and concern, as well as that of our God, for he will be with each of you surrounded by his Angels. Thank you so much for the blessing each of you are in my life

    Reply
  19. Sheilah Galpin says

    January 26, 2016 at 6:01 pm

    Please know that You all are on many prayer list that span the globe. Everyone has and will continue to lift you up in prayer! GOD IS VERY GOOD!!

    Reply
  20. Linda Amondson-Muller says

    January 26, 2016 at 6:04 pm

    One day at a time !! Prayers… Dr. Paul… Sorry caregiving is so close to home, all of us have a need to be emotional at these times !! Look for the blessing each day ! It is there, look for it no matter how small or big it is !! Prayers for all !

    Reply
  21. Barb Freeman says

    January 26, 2016 at 7:05 pm

    “Lord, cover the whole Williams family with your deep love. Whisper your calm into their ears day and night. Please help the Docs with the meds, grant them discernment and empathy, help them to find just the right match for Theresa to help with all the nasty symptoms. You are our “Mighty Fortress” Lord . . .hide this dear family in You.” Thanks Lord. Dr. Paul and Theresa you are never far from our thoughts!

    Reply
  22. Kimberly says

    January 26, 2016 at 7:33 pm

    Theresa & Dr.Paul -You are in

    Reply
  23. lida gray says

    January 26, 2016 at 7:57 pm

    Dr. Paul, it has been several years since Terry and I lived in Centralia, but your family has stayed in our hearts and we speak of you and your parents often. I’m so sorry to hear of what you are all going through at this time, but we will definitely add you to our prayer list. God is an all knowing Father and He will be with you at all times during this journey. Continue to stay in His word for strength and lean on your loved ones on days that you feel weak. God sends friends and family to be there when you need them.
    In Christ,
    Lida Gray

    Reply
  24. linda elder says

    January 26, 2016 at 8:40 pm

    Think of your family every day! Pray for all of you. Paul, take care of yourself. Your family needs you.

    Reply
  25. Paul Mills says

    January 26, 2016 at 8:59 pm

    Dear Paul and Theresa and family,

    I am so sorry to learn, just today, of this illness. I will also pray fervently for a swift healing and comfort while waiting.

    Paul Mills

    Reply
  26. Mitch & DeLynne Dietz says

    January 26, 2016 at 10:59 pm

    Paul and Theresa thank you for sharing your journey with us. We feel deeply privileged to be trusted with your intimate thoughts as you face this trial. Along with our prayer for healing we will press into prayer all that is involved with the treatment. We hope and pray that Theresa will be able to go through the treatment without feeling so sick. We love you guys. As Warner Keller used to say “Better Days Ahead”

    Reply
  27. Janet Andersen says

    January 26, 2016 at 11:33 pm

    Thank you so much for this update. Both Jeff and I are keeping you and your beautiful bride and precious family in our prayers. I know that you are all being lifted up in prayers and that God is with each of you. Praying for peace and comfort for all of you during this time and that you may all get some much needed physical rest. Sleep well precious ones! God had got you all in his hands!

    Reply
  28. Melissa Werner says

    January 27, 2016 at 12:57 am

    Stay strong my friend, praying for you and your family.

    Reply
  29. Jennie Brandt says

    January 27, 2016 at 2:41 am

    I pray the good Lord will ease your problems with all the medication. Stay strong, Stay positive.
    Always remember the “footprints”

    Our prayers are with you.

    Reply
  30. Dolores Lee says

    January 27, 2016 at 3:04 am

    Dr.Paul and Theresa, as your faith in God’s love and your determination to follow God’s will He will be with both of you and your family. Blessings to all. My prayers for your family continues.

    Reply
  31. Alene Tauscher says

    January 27, 2016 at 4:23 am

    I know that Jodi has you and Thersa in her heart and prayers. Please know that John and I do too. Praying for a speedy recovery and His healing hands on you both.

    Reply
  32. Carol & Marcus Johns says

    January 27, 2016 at 4:44 pm

    We are still with you in our daily thoughts and prayers.

    Reply
  33. Jackie Etter says

    January 27, 2016 at 5:16 pm

    My heart and prayers are with you and your family. This is a real hard time that God will see you though.

    Reply
  34. Jerry & Del Sexton says

    January 27, 2016 at 5:58 pm

    I have no words of wisdom except God is with you and we continue to pray for Theresa and all of you

    Reply
  35. Jim and Deanna says

    January 27, 2016 at 10:29 pm

    Our family is praying for a miracle for your family and for peace from above through all of the challenges and heartache. Just know that we are here if there are any needs which we could in any way help with.

    Reply
  36. Kelly Noltensmeier says

    January 28, 2016 at 2:18 am

    If there is anything I can do, no matter how small. I’m there for you.

    Reply
  37. Dacia says

    January 28, 2016 at 4:58 am

    Thinking of you and praying for you all continually.

    Reply
  38. Virginia says

    January 28, 2016 at 5:39 pm

    I thank you for the updates. It helps to know what direction my prayers for you all should go in. Our God listens to our prayers so faithfully. I will continue to lift your family up to him day and night. We do not know why these things happen but can find comfort in knowing He does. Sending love and hugs to you all.

    Reply
  39. Denise Anderson says

    January 28, 2016 at 6:41 pm

    You and your family are literally constantly in our thoughts and prayers. We love you guys!

    Reply
  40. Kim & Danny says

    January 28, 2016 at 10:54 pm

    Your faith is inspiring, and the love and devotion for your wife is beautiful. Our hearts are with you both.

    Reply
  41. Harry Lutz says

    January 29, 2016 at 1:44 am

    Doctor Paul,
    Our prayers are flowing daily for you and your wife and your entire family. Stay strong, all of you, in the knowledge that blessings will follow your heartache and sorrow.

    Reply
  42. Tim Aldrich says

    January 30, 2016 at 1:36 am

    Stay strong, my brother. I praise God that your family has you for its comfort, strength and leadership needs. Just reading your thoughts and emotions make me realize how important of a role model you are, not only to those who need you during this time, but also to your church, your friends, and your community.

    God Bless You

    Reply
  43. Denny and Connie Taylor says

    January 30, 2016 at 10:45 pm

    Williams Family…I (Denny) was really touched in our 7th/8th grade prayer circle last Monday when several of the students prayed sincerely for God to bless and help you through this hard time.
    And it amazed me just now when I read what you two are writing in your blog how encouraging and uplifting your words are to ME…and YOU are the ones on this tough journey! I believe it’s because of Psalm 112:7 which you are living every day – your hearts are fixed, trusting in the Lord. Here are two stanzas from an old Canadian hymn which we have loved for years. I trust it will bless your hearts:

    How good is the God we adore,
    Our faithful, unchangeable Friend;
    Whose love is as great as His power,
    And knows neither measure nor end.

    ‘Tis Jesus the First and the Last,
    Whose Spirit shall guide us safe home;
    We’ll thank Him for all that is past,
    And trust Him for all that’s to come!

    Many blessings to you in His grace,
    Denny and Connie Taylor

    Reply
  44. alex zago says

    January 31, 2016 at 12:05 am

    You all in our daily prayers, our only hope is in the Lord Jesus.

    Reply

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Categories

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About Doctor Paul

Dr. Paul Williams, MD is a small-town family practice doctor working in Centralia, Washington. He works from the same office where his primary care practice was established by his father over 38 years ago. He believes strongly that the art of the old-fashioned primary care doctor is an important feature of our medical system that should be preserved and protected from excess interference from insurance companies and government regulation alike.

Due to changes in the health care industry and regulations affecting it, and in an effort to preserve the art of old-fashioned primary care, Dr. Paul has shifted his practice to a Direct Care model, meaning that patients pay an affordable monthly fee to purchase primary care health care services directly, rather than having their services billed through an insurance company.

This blog is intended to help Dr. Paul's patients (and anyone else!) understand the changes the medical industry is going through, and to provide information about the Direct Care model of primary care.

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