Anne finished Round 3 of chemo late last week. Anne’s blood counts were really good this time around, and she had a good recovery weekend. We are hoping she doesn’t have a trip to the ER this week. Those of you who pray can pray that we skip the ER trip this time. So far she has had to go to the ER after each chemo treatment. So far so good!
Lillian and Cassie made it to see Anne on Sunday, which gave her some smiles. The nausea and fatigue were much better this weekend too. A friend brought us a meal on Friday night, and we had some wonderful gift cards that we were able to use on Saturday and Sunday to to make things easier. We are all getting accustomed to the rhythm of chemo, and Anne has been a tough fighter.
I want to send a special thank you to those of you who sent cards, care packages, and gift cards the past few weeks. We have been overwhelmed by your generosity. You have no idea what a blessing it is to be able to just order food or pick up something – especially on the days when we are all a little emotionally overwhelmed. However; the emotionally overwhelming days are becoming fewer.
Stephen and the kids seem to be doing well, and I’m getting there. Stephen’s work is going well and he is juggling the schedule with Anne’s appointments without too much difficulty. My work has been very flexible and understanding. I have received an outpouring of support from my coworkers both practically and emotionally. They have covered for me when I was at doctors appointments, brought me meals, sent me cards, asked about our family in conversation, sent care packages, given gift cards, and just generally shown compassion with action.
Clark has been in charge of fun and making Anne laugh. He is enjoying some of his classes in school, and doesn’t hate any of them. He is in the wrestling preseason and still loving it. Next semester’s schedule will be much tougher, but we are just thankful that this semester has had a lighter workload than normal.
Anne has officially deferred Clemson until the Fall of 2024. We believe her treatment will last into February/March and it just isn’t practical for her to try to start school in the spring. She is going to take some art classes and do some other online activities to keep her mind sharp. There are also some online teen/young adult cancer support groups that she can participate in. She seems most disappointed that she won’t get to room with the three roommates she put so much effort into getting to know this summer.
Thank you again for taking this journey with us and continuing to pray for Anne.
Anne's Blog and Art 
Anne,
Papa and Mimi love you as much as we love each other. I know the Lord has you in his hands and we pray for you constantly. There are many, many people at Hillcrest and a few other churches around here praying for you daily as well. I know that plan wise our plans were delayed a whole lot , but they will begin again soon.
I do not want you to feel lonely so call me on my cell any time you are in the dumps. I know we seem pretty far away, but if you need to see us Mimi and I will come up for a quick trip.
Weâve got a bunch of girls at the house now from Brazil. There are 4 of them plus two lady teachers. (Iâm totally outnumbered at present). They are going to be here for another week. We took them to Italian Eating last night and they are pretty stuffed still this morning.
Iâve still got a lot of weed work in the bottom part of the yard, but at least there are none left that are taller than me.
I have got to help[ with breakfast now.
Lots of hugs,
Papa Joe
Love these updates. Keeping y’all in my thoughts 🥰