[Believe51]

Markers are used to gauge what maybe going on in one's body and do not work for all individuals depending on the type of cancer. Take a blood sample for an example and give it to Joe Schmoe to read your markers. He comes up with 250 and then give him the same blood sample on the same day to re-read....it is 232! The same man, the same sample. Yes, your markers are rising and I do know that feeling of despair for we have lived this for many months!! Many things can alter that number also, like infections, dead cancer cells are in that reading, sometimes those markers go up before getting better, even caffeine can play a role.

So My Pessimistic Friend, please know that I am not saying you should not worry, I am saying that many things alter this number, some of those being good things. I am telling you that my husband has been in some terrible spots too since last March and his numbers have been rising since then. Not until recently has that changed. I know your fear, I understand the need to ask for support during this needful time.

Please give these drugs the time they need to potentially help you, for all you know, the numbers rising may be sending a good message. Try to remain positive because that has helped my husband and now my mother during their bc journies. This is not easy. It is fine to be down, to be scared, but try to change that since it can only help your journey for the good.

I pray that your rise in numbers is a sign of better things to come. I pray that you can muster the strength to try to stay calm and positive. You will be in my thoughts, all positive of course. And Havah, I want you to know that I have sounded like you do and that is normal. Please do not despair, hang tough. Now go get 'em the best you can and call us if you need us. I really know how you must be feeling, you do not have to have cancer to know that. We too have had a tough road and it is hard to stay focused and positive. Sometimes I make myself want to puke!! LOL!! Sending Love>>Believe51