| [Friday, Aug 31, 2007] Hi Everyone, About 9:00 p.m. last night, just 5 1/2 hours after Shel's surgery, she was sitting up in bed eating peaches, talking, making jokes, and trying to smile a little. It was hard for her to open her eyes, but she did a few times and her voice was a little raspy due to the ventilator during surgery. She was in a lot of pain, and if Shel admits she's in pain, she's REALLY in pain. I won't go into the details of the surgery, but suffice it to say, it was extensive, and she now has titanium hardware in her head. Only two of us were allowed in her room at a time, but she told each of us the same thing; "Now I don't have to feel guilty for all the attention I've been getting." After questioning her about what exactly that meant, she told us that her cancer just hasn't been that big of deal to her to warrant so much attention. Although she has loved and appreciated all the prayers and support, she just couldn't quite understand such an out-pouring of love for her since she wasn't bed-ridden, wasn't in extreme pain, and didn't feel particularly sick. That's all changed. She understands now and FINALLY feels worthy of the attention. At first this made us a little sad to think she didn't feel worthy before with all she had gone through, but like Kira said, we should be overjoyed that she wasn't faking it, she really did feel okay, and wasn't simply in denial. As we were telling her about all the well wishes sent her way she got a little emotional and said that NOW she REALLY appreciates the love and support like never before. Today she will be moved out of ICU back to the oncology floor most likely. Eric spent the night with her and said she got some sleep but not a lot. They did an MRI this morning and it shows they got ALL of the mass - nothing left behind. Her face is pretty swollen and bruised, but that will all resolve. I will be heading that way soon and will keep you posted on any new developments. Thank you all so much AGAIN for your amazing, faith, love, light and support. Sheri |