Relay For Life

Erika's family and friends joined Erika this past weekend during the Relay for Life.  The American Cancer Society Relay for Life unites communities across the country each year to celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease.   It looks as though it was an amazing day.  Erika looks fantastic.... I'm sorry to have missed it.

But if you haven't signed up for the Livestrong event on July 12th in San Jose, sign up!  Or donate whatever you can:  http://sanjose09.livestrong.org/kirahallemeier

:)

Kira

Slight Correction

Hi Everyone!

I was just informed this morning that Erika's brain procedure that I wrote about a couple weeks ago was not a brain surgery (sorry... not familiar with the nuances of certain terms) - and I apologize if I alarmed anyone.  The procedure was a stereotactic radiation.  It is a very precise and accurate beam to the brain which destroys the lesion but there is no incision.  It was 20 minutes and performed in the radiation department.   I will try and relay the information as accurately as possible as some things get lost in translation over the phone.  My apologies...  

:)

Kira

Livestrong Challenge 2009

I've just sent out an email to some of you Bay Area friends (Erika's Bay Area Village) to join me on July 12th for the Livestrong 5K in San Jose.  You can also sign up for the bike ride (25K, 50K, or 100K).  If you would like to attend, join Team Erika!  Follow the link on my Livestrong webpage: http://sanjose09.livestrong.org/kirahallemeier

Or please donate money to this worthy cause and show your support for Erika!

Let me know if you have any questions....

~Kira

Don't Mess With E!

The Keese and Anhood family would like to spread some really great news.

Erika's x-rays have shown new bone growth in her tail bone and hip!!!!  And... the tumor in her spine has ceased to grow.  Greg called it new bone formation in her sacral spine.

Our girl is responsive to chemo, and that is just the BEST news!

Keep sending your good vibes, b/c it's working... that and her tough attitude. 

~Kira

Brain Surgery

I don't have all the details, but I heard today that her brain surgery (to remove the tiny cancer spot) went well, and she is recovering. I hope to speak with her tomorrow and send hugs through the phone... Yeah!

UPDATE!!! - I was just informed that this procedure wasn't a surgery afterall (sorry... not familiar with the nuances of certain terms)... this was a stereotactic radiation.  It is a very precise and accurate beam to the brain which destroys the lesion but there is no incision.  It was 20 minutes and performed in the radiation department.