Update on Jason Anderson

Jason continues to handle his every-other-week chemo/immunotherapy treatment remarkably well! His side effects have all been very manageable. His single cancer symptom (getting full more quickly than usual) has improved a whole lot, so we think the medications are likely working!

Last weekend, we went to Susanville, California for his 35th high-school reunion. It wasn't the greatest timing, at the end of chemo week. But he had a wonderful time and had good energy until our trip home Monday, when the fatigue caught up to him. Overall, it was a successful weekend away, and I'm looking forward to taking other short trips when we can!

This picture is from this morning, when Jason was mowing the lawn. Now, before several of you comment, "Please let me mow it for you!", two things:

1. You're awesome, thank you!

2. He's had several people offer, and we did have others take over briefly after his port placement/laparoscopy.

The thing is, Jason really takes pride in mowing our lawn. His dad had a side business as a landscaper, and Jason "inherited the lawn gene." He's got his scheduled arranged where he's mowing on the weekend prior to chemo, when his energy is great.

He's also still working out when he feels up to it, mostly on his chemo "off weeks." He'll go to spin class, swim 1600 meters, or use the rowing machine. We're both so, so grateful that he was exercising consistently prior to his diagnosis. I think it's a big reason he's handling the chemo so well, and his continued workouts are helping him stay strong.

Our neighbor saw Jason mowing today. He called me to tell me, "Your husband is a badass." I fully agree!

So, what's next?

Jason has chemo/immunotherapy Tuesday. The following week, he and I will head to Houston on the 9th & 10th. He'll have a PET scan at MD Anderson (where they have really high-quality scanning equipment), and we'll meet with a doctor to discuss results and what comes next.

We don't know if he'll stay on the same treatment plan/schedule or move on to something else (like radiation or surgery). If you're the praying sort, please pray for great results of the scan and that the doctors will guide him in the best direction.

What can you do to help?

Right now, we're in good shape. We've adjusted pretty well to the chemo routine. Emotionally and physically, we both have a lot more good days than bad! We always appreciate your encouragement, prayers, and positive thoughts.

I want to personally thank you for the meals y'all have been providing. Yes, the whole family has benefited, but honestly, I've benefited the most. I do more meal planning in this house than others do, and it really has been wonderful to have one less thing to think about during a time that is, by default, stressful.

Our meal calendar ends in a few weeks, which should work great—we don't need any more signups on the calendar for now. My parents will be here for a week and a half in August, and my mom, who's a great cook, is determined to stock our freezer with food!

We're full of gratitude for all your support. Cancer is hard, but y'all bring beauty to the process.

–Jason and Beth

You're always welcome to look at past emails here. Just be aware this site includes my weekly author newsletter as well as my emails about Jason; I can't split them up!