OASIS - PART DEUX - DAY 4

A welcome back hug from Dr. Contreras

Today was similar to yesterday - class with Dr. Barroso (this is the correct spelling) and IVs all day.  The classes are extremely informative.  Valerie's mother will be pleased to know that we've learned that Valerie is a virgin.... to chemo that is. :)  The statistics for people that get treatment here before getting any treatment in the states (chemo, radiation or surgery) are SO much better than those who have tried conventional medicine first.  I've mentioned it before, but it's worth another mention.  I think the states 5 year survival rate for stage IV breast cancer is about 18% and here - for people that come here within 6 months of diagnosis (which we did) and who have not had conventional treatment (which she has not) - the 5 year survival rate is 75%.  You can't really argue with those numbers.

El Jefe

Dr. Contreras came by today to check in and see how Valerie is doing.  He was very pleased to see how well she is looking and feeling.  He is always very encouraging and supportive..... and rather handsome too.

One of Valerie's new nurses - Pedro

We received a very generous and surprising gift today.  A friend of mine turns 41 tomorrow and unbeknownst to me, she had sent an email to her friends and family stating how lucky and fortunate she is and that she wants for nothing on this birthday - so she asked her friends and family to donate to Valerie's care in lieu of buying her a gift, a drink, dinner, etc.  It was a very moving, and generous letter.  Thank you Shelan - so much.

I am frequently overcome by other's generosity.  I know people have posted requests, asked other people, advocated for us - - done so many things on our behalf.  I wish I could adequately express our deep thanks and gratitude.  Please know that we are constantly in awe of your gifts, thoughts, prayers, emails, jokes, and love.  We are very lucky indeed.