June 30, 2008
Today Mom and Dad were at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance (SCCA,henceforth)
early. They arrived a little after 7:00 and Mom went right in and got a blood draw and and i.v. in her hand. Something that usually is an ordeal was obtained in the first try. Praise #1.
I arrived at 8:30 with our son Brittain in tow.
As I mentioned in a previous posting, Mom was scheduled to have Dr. Hickman perform the port surgery, the same Dr. Brittain had 13 years ago as baby. He had been so gentle and humble and gracious back then. One of the radioogists that spoke with Mom last week and learned of this fact, asked her to bring in a picture of Brittain as he said it would mean a lot to Dr. Hickman. (If you don't know what I am talking about,please look to the right of your screen and read the blog entry titled "Topsy Turvy Tuesday" it will explain everything in enough detail for this to make sense)
I told Brittain I was going to take a picture of him and the first thing he said was
"Can I go meet him?" So, there we were. Mom was in the back gowned up to meet Dr. Hickman before the procedure and Dad, Brittain and I sat next to her. Brittain and I were both a little nervous. He was nervous because as much as he knew it would be neat, he wasn't sure what he would say. I was nervous because I didn't want to cry.
He came in and was exactly as I remembered him 13 years earlier. He shook Dad's hand and inroduced himself as "Hello, I'm Bob Hickman". It was odd that he didn't introduce himself as "Dr.", but I immediately recognized his humble, gentle approachable manner that had struck me so long ago. I shook his hand and introduced Brittain and explained that this was my son. I told him that Britt was one of his first patients to receive the prototype Hickman catheter, and that he had done the surgery 13 years earlier. I somehow squeaked out what a blessing it had been and that I wanted to thank him again and Brittain had wanted to come and meet him. He put his clasped hands up to his mouth and smiled so big, then started to cry. He was not able to speak for a minute and just looked at Brittain and shook his head. Mom told him during this time that we were told on three seperate occasions Brittain would most likely die that day. She also told him, we considered him no small part of his treatment and recovery and were forever grateful for his care and the pain the catheter kept him from experencing over those long months. He took a short walk away from the bed and looked away to compose himself. He came back over and smiled at Brittain again and told him he was a "handsome and fine looking young man and it was great to meet him". We were all cryng by then.(even Britt a little, though he said later that he wasn't sure why.)
I asked him if I could get a picture of him with Brittain. He agreed and so I took two pictures. One of the two of them and one with Britt, Dr. Hickmand and Papa and Grandma. Praise #2.
We got to see Mom after the procedure as Dr. Hickman came out and took us back to see Mom and get xrays of her new port. He showed all of the xrays to us and explained where it was placed, how he done the procedure and answered all the questions we had, never once making us feel rushed. They used Mom's jugular vein and placed it just slightly higher than her last port. After recovery we decided on a "last meal" before admitting Mom to the hosptal. We have really come to loath the food at the hospital and sometimes feel eating there may very well be our "last meal".
We went to lunch and ate outside by the water. Mom had again had to fast this morning and was ready to eat something. It was a warm and beautiful day and we felt blessed to get to spend a bit more time together before heading to the "ward". Praise #3.
Mom was admitted to the 6th floor. It was the first floor she was on and had been there for her first round. While the people we had there were wonderful, her memories of 6th were horrible and she had said many times that she hoped to not go back there. She was put in the last room at the end of the hallway and has a pretty view of park area below. She handled it well.Her spirits were good. Praise #4.
We thought she woould need 12 hours of hydration prior to chemo starting. The orders read 2 instead. That just means she will be 10 hours closer to going home than before. Praise #5.
I left to get Brittain home about 5:30. they had still not started her fluids.
(again, hospital time) Mom was still very tender and sore at the port site but came out accessed and ready for an i.v., so yet another praise!
I spoke with Mom later this evening. She had taken a little nap and had some dinner with Dad that I had packed and taken along to try to prolong the agony of the cafetera food. They had been able to pack a suitcase and food and all the items they needed for the first time. Each of the other 4 times in the hospital had been unexpected visits that had not given them time to pack hardly anything at all. They came prepared with food and beverages, fruit, veggies and microwave meals. Trust me, this is the way to eat up there. You may think microwave meals sounds bad, but it really is all relatve.It was a huge blessing to be ready and get to pack themselves. Praise #6.
I will be going up tomorrow, Carmen will go on Wednesday.
We continue to covet and appreciate your prayers, emails,blog posts and contact with Mom and Dad. You all would be what Mom would call her Praise #7!
Thank you.
Kimberly and family
P.S. I will post the pictures from today when I figure out how. John, Nichole and Lily are on a much deserved vacation.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Sunday, June 29, 2008
A message from Ladeva
Sunday june 29, 2008
Hi to all my family and friends who follow the blog,
I was hoping the Dr. would say: "You're not going to have more chemo", but I appreciated how straight forward he was, in telling me that it was a life and death choice. The cancer that I have, can travel and come back and he said the tumor shows some areas that are dead, but he felt it would be unsafe not to go through at least two more regimens of chemotherapy and possibly follow up with six weeks of radiation.
I'm still asking God for a miracle, but I believe that when you pray He always answers, either yes, no, or wait a while. I pray that in God's timing my health will be restored. I have more to learn and one thing I am experiencing, is how much love has been shown to us through this time. I have never before experienced the depth of love shown to me from family and friends. How blessed I am to have been shown this, and know that He is loving me through them.
Thank you for helping me get through this difficult time through prayers to our loving heavenly Father. It means so much as I start with surgery to replace the port at 9:00 a.m. on Monday morning, and then later that day, chemotherapy. Thank you each one who has taken the time to write on the blog, sent cards, called, or came by, brought food, and babysat with me so Warren felt he could go back to work. I wish I could return to you each blessing you have given to me. I pray that our Lord will bless you for your kindness.
Love, Ladeva
Hi to all my family and friends who follow the blog,
I was hoping the Dr. would say: "You're not going to have more chemo", but I appreciated how straight forward he was, in telling me that it was a life and death choice. The cancer that I have, can travel and come back and he said the tumor shows some areas that are dead, but he felt it would be unsafe not to go through at least two more regimens of chemotherapy and possibly follow up with six weeks of radiation.
I'm still asking God for a miracle, but I believe that when you pray He always answers, either yes, no, or wait a while. I pray that in God's timing my health will be restored. I have more to learn and one thing I am experiencing, is how much love has been shown to us through this time. I have never before experienced the depth of love shown to me from family and friends. How blessed I am to have been shown this, and know that He is loving me through them.
Thank you for helping me get through this difficult time through prayers to our loving heavenly Father. It means so much as I start with surgery to replace the port at 9:00 a.m. on Monday morning, and then later that day, chemotherapy. Thank you each one who has taken the time to write on the blog, sent cards, called, or came by, brought food, and babysat with me so Warren felt he could go back to work. I wish I could return to you each blessing you have given to me. I pray that our Lord will bless you for your kindness.
Love, Ladeva
Saturday, June 28, 2008
"Escape from Alcatraz"
Saturday June 28th
Has anyone seen Warren and Ladeva?
It appears they have flown the coop.
Mom and Dad were talking in the car (after finding out that Mom would start chemo again on Monday),that they might run away for the weekend since Mom was feeling so well. They wanted to try to get away before Mom had to go back into the hospital. They spoke of several places they might like to run away to. Many included meeting friends or going to see friends.
Carmen asked Dad on Friday, where he was wisking her off to, and in his typical ornery state; refused to tell her. I mean REPEATEDLY refused to tell her! Unfortunately, we didn't get in contact with Mom before they left, so he really did make a clean break of it with Mom.
Wherever they are, I hope they are having a blessed time, full of fun, precious memories, sunshine, good food, long naps and lots of cuddling.
So, if you try to call them, don't be worried if they don't answer. They aren't back in the hospital. Mom is still doing great and Dad is still.................Dad. :) Ha!
Love ya!
Kimberly and family
Has anyone seen Warren and Ladeva?
It appears they have flown the coop.
Mom and Dad were talking in the car (after finding out that Mom would start chemo again on Monday),that they might run away for the weekend since Mom was feeling so well. They wanted to try to get away before Mom had to go back into the hospital. They spoke of several places they might like to run away to. Many included meeting friends or going to see friends.
Carmen asked Dad on Friday, where he was wisking her off to, and in his typical ornery state; refused to tell her. I mean REPEATEDLY refused to tell her! Unfortunately, we didn't get in contact with Mom before they left, so he really did make a clean break of it with Mom.
Wherever they are, I hope they are having a blessed time, full of fun, precious memories, sunshine, good food, long naps and lots of cuddling.
So, if you try to call them, don't be worried if they don't answer. They aren't back in the hospital. Mom is still doing great and Dad is still.................Dad. :) Ha!
Love ya!
Kimberly and family
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Thursday June 26, 2008
Hi everyone,
Just a reminder that tomorrow night is the next benefit meeting in Centralia at 7:00 PM.
We need SO much help to pull this off. If you are able to help in any capacity at all we would greatly appreciate your presence at these meetings.
If you are able to attend, the meeting is being held at:
The Edison Place
201 N. Rock Street
Centralia, WA 98531
Due to a reception being held in the building tomorrow night, please enter off Pine street into the meeting room reserved for us.
There is so much to be done, from set up, to clean up, to cutting dessert, to making signs, procuring much needed items, and much much more.
Now that Mom is feeling better, the hardest task we will have is keeping her little servant's heart from working at the benefit herself.
Please consider coming if you are at all able. We need as many hands as are able to help.
Mom had a good day yesterday. She had a chiropractic appointment and feels so much better. Too many days in bed has made her have an achey breaky back. She and Judy Panco did some WalMart shopping, Dad took her to dinner and they took a little drive in the sun. She had such a great day she said and is feeling grateful for every day.
We appreciate you posts on the blog. She enjoys reading them and is grateful to you for taking the time to write to her and send all the encouraging messages. You are each a sweet gift.
Love,
Kimberly
Just a reminder that tomorrow night is the next benefit meeting in Centralia at 7:00 PM.
We need SO much help to pull this off. If you are able to help in any capacity at all we would greatly appreciate your presence at these meetings.
If you are able to attend, the meeting is being held at:
The Edison Place
201 N. Rock Street
Centralia, WA 98531
Due to a reception being held in the building tomorrow night, please enter off Pine street into the meeting room reserved for us.
There is so much to be done, from set up, to clean up, to cutting dessert, to making signs, procuring much needed items, and much much more.
Now that Mom is feeling better, the hardest task we will have is keeping her little servant's heart from working at the benefit herself.
Please consider coming if you are at all able. We need as many hands as are able to help.
Mom had a good day yesterday. She had a chiropractic appointment and feels so much better. Too many days in bed has made her have an achey breaky back. She and Judy Panco did some WalMart shopping, Dad took her to dinner and they took a little drive in the sun. She had such a great day she said and is feeling grateful for every day.
We appreciate you posts on the blog. She enjoys reading them and is grateful to you for taking the time to write to her and send all the encouraging messages. You are each a sweet gift.
Love,
Kimberly
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Topsy Turvy Tuesday
Today is the day we have been waiting for. The news as to Mom’s next step in her treatment.
Yesterday was the PET scan with the radioactive dye. It scans the whole body and gives information as to if the cancer has spread. Mom had to fast again and it was after 2:00 before the three of us (Mom, Dad and Kimberly) ate. She was famished. That can’t be good for a sick person can it??
We left hopeful for a good report today.
Last night we all went to Mom and Dad’s to celebrate Sadie’s 4th Birthday which is Wednesday, but we wanted to get in her birthday party in case we got a call changing Mom’s plans. Sadie is Troy and Maria’s oldest, and she is pure delight. She and Nate (2) entertained us all. The kids always lift Mom’s spirits, but as she has been feeling so good, she really had a great time.
So, this morning Dad, Mom, and I picked up Carmen and headed north. She first met with the Oncology Nurse Practitioner, and went over her meds, pain levels etc. The biggest praise there, is that there IS no pain. Mom is only taking her blood pressure pills and potassium. That is the first time since October that she has been pain free, and completely narcotic free. What a huge praise that is in and of itself.
Next she saw one of the Orthopedic Dr.’s. She went over a few more things and just briefly hit on the MRI findings.
Here is what we found out:
1) The tumor has had no significant shrinkage. The MRI that was done was over a week old however, and Mom feels her leg has gone down even more just since then. It is possible that it has shrunk since the MRI, but the from what they saw, it measured less than a centimeter smaller. This was tough news for Mom. She was really convinced the chemo had shrunk it enough to show some real progress in minimizing the size. But again, it may have gone down since the test, there’s no way to know.
2) Mom will definitely be receiving 2 more rounds of chemotherapy.
3) The port is not correctly placed. (She had to have an x-ray and consult with the radiologists as well) It has to be redone before chemo starts.
4) Mom will most likely receive 6 weeks of radiation AFTER the chemo regimen is complete. This will require daily radiation for a full 6 weeks. There is a possibility that she can get it in Centralia however and not have to go to Seattle daily. (Another praise.)
It was difficult news for her to hear. They wanted her in on Thursday to start chemo and she was just having a hard time with the news that she would need it at all. Dr. Conrad (her Orthopedic surgeon that will be removing the tumor) said that he could remove the tumor now, but that the reason the two additional rounds of chemo is necessary, is to prevent the spread of this aggressive form of cancer to other parts of her body. Two rounds would not save her life.
Some frustrating news was that we could not get the results of the PET scan she did yesterday. Mom is in a Sarcoma study. The terms of the funding (dumb as they are) state that the surgeons and Dr.’s cannot see the results of the 2nd PET scan until after the 4th round and 3rd PET scan. They do not want it to influence how they would treat Mom’s cancer (or anyone else in the study). It would seem to us and them, that it is helpful and vital info, but Mom had to agree before she started treatment that she would participate and that she understood this step. Ok, 2 ½ months later we forgot that part. They did say that if Dr. Conrad felt strongly that he needed the PET scan results in order to possibly change her treatment that he could look at them and simply remove her from the study. He did not feel at this time that he needed the scan to decide what was in Mom’s best interest, so she stays in the study and we won’t know that outcome until after round 4 and the 3rd PET scan.
So, here now is some good news. Since the last two rounds have absolutely kicked Mom on her toosh, they have decided to reduce her chemo dosage by 20%. They are hoping it will help reduce her staggering side effects, and eliminate the toxic brain reaction she has had. The first round was horrific, the second was awful as well. You may recall during round 2, she couldn’t talk for about a day and a half, but could hear and understand perfectly. It was so frightening for her.
Some more good news is that they agreed after the x-ray of the port, that it was not placed correctly. It will have to be redone and they cannot do it until Monday. The significance of that is that she won’t go in on Thursday for the chemo. She earned a “stay out of jail” card and gets to have the rest of the week and the weekend off before going back in. They will redo the port Monday morning at SCCA, then send her over to the hospital to start the 12 hour flush before chemo starts with a new port. Yeah! No more pain with the access. I know this email is full of information and lengthy, but I would ask you to indulge me for a bit more to share something else.
About 13 years ago, our son Brittain was 10 weeks old when he got a strange disease known as Kawasaki Syndrome. Britt spent about 5 months in the infant ICU unit at Children’s hospital in Seattle. We were told on 3 separate occasions that they did not expect him to live through the day. Every day they came and poked him and poked him throughout the day to draw his blood for this test then that test, as they futilely looked for what was wrong. After about four weeks, he had been poked over 65 times. It never got easier to watch. His veins failed time and again. They decided after they diagnosed him that he would need some kind of a more permanent access line that would enable them to draw blood without the constant pokes. Also he needed an iv that would not fail every few days. Brian and I had gotten good at questioning every blood draw by asking if others could be combined that were to be taken later and if it was absolutely necessary. We became bulldogs at only allowing specific people from the iv team that we knew tended to get the blood the “first time” . They came to us and told us there was a new line similar to a pic line. It was called a Hickman catheter. It went in near the neck and had two lumens (ports) that were placed at the top of the heart and allowed iv meds into booth ports. However, if blood needed to be drawn, they could stop one port and draw blood from it. He would need surgery to place it. We agreed, but I told them I wanted to meet the surgeon that would be placing it and ask him or her questions. We were told it was fairly new. As I recall it was somewhat of a prototype and there were only a few between Children’s, Harborview, and Swedish.
I came in and saw this older gentleman in his late 60’s. He had a sweet gentle spirit and kind tender eyes. I asked him all the questions we had and asked him if he had a lot of experience. I told him that we had watched our son through so much pain and that I wanted the best there was to place this new Hickman catheter. He took both my hands in his and looked me straight in the eyes and said “If you would allow me, I would be honored to place it for you. I have the most experience there is in placing the Hickman lines”. I said “Thank you so much. We would really appreciate it. We have watched him suffer through a lot in his short life. But, I don’t know your name.” He smiled a very sweet humble smile and said “I am Dr. Hickman.”
To this day, when I talk about that I cry. Today, we found out that Dr. Hickman will be replacing Mom’s line on Monday. I cried again. God is so good and faithful. He is in his early 80’s but still climbs mountains and is as steady and skilled as ever. I am taking a current picture of Brittain for Mom to show him. The Dr. in radiology today told Mom it would make Dr. Hickman misty eyed to see a picture of him. That will be two of us.
Thank you all for your prayers for Mom. We left and got lunch around 3:00. We were famished. We ate outside at one of the waterfront restaurants. It was beautiful and sunny. I felt like the sun was a warm blanket God wrapped around our shoulders at the end of a long, long day. He is awesome.
We thank you for your love, concern, prayer and support. You are each a blessing to our family and we love you.
Trusting in Him,
Kimberly and family
Yesterday was the PET scan with the radioactive dye. It scans the whole body and gives information as to if the cancer has spread. Mom had to fast again and it was after 2:00 before the three of us (Mom, Dad and Kimberly) ate. She was famished. That can’t be good for a sick person can it??
We left hopeful for a good report today.
Last night we all went to Mom and Dad’s to celebrate Sadie’s 4th Birthday which is Wednesday, but we wanted to get in her birthday party in case we got a call changing Mom’s plans. Sadie is Troy and Maria’s oldest, and she is pure delight. She and Nate (2) entertained us all. The kids always lift Mom’s spirits, but as she has been feeling so good, she really had a great time.
So, this morning Dad, Mom, and I picked up Carmen and headed north. She first met with the Oncology Nurse Practitioner, and went over her meds, pain levels etc. The biggest praise there, is that there IS no pain. Mom is only taking her blood pressure pills and potassium. That is the first time since October that she has been pain free, and completely narcotic free. What a huge praise that is in and of itself.
Next she saw one of the Orthopedic Dr.’s. She went over a few more things and just briefly hit on the MRI findings.
Here is what we found out:
1) The tumor has had no significant shrinkage. The MRI that was done was over a week old however, and Mom feels her leg has gone down even more just since then. It is possible that it has shrunk since the MRI, but the from what they saw, it measured less than a centimeter smaller. This was tough news for Mom. She was really convinced the chemo had shrunk it enough to show some real progress in minimizing the size. But again, it may have gone down since the test, there’s no way to know.
2) Mom will definitely be receiving 2 more rounds of chemotherapy.
3) The port is not correctly placed. (She had to have an x-ray and consult with the radiologists as well) It has to be redone before chemo starts.
4) Mom will most likely receive 6 weeks of radiation AFTER the chemo regimen is complete. This will require daily radiation for a full 6 weeks. There is a possibility that she can get it in Centralia however and not have to go to Seattle daily. (Another praise.)
It was difficult news for her to hear. They wanted her in on Thursday to start chemo and she was just having a hard time with the news that she would need it at all. Dr. Conrad (her Orthopedic surgeon that will be removing the tumor) said that he could remove the tumor now, but that the reason the two additional rounds of chemo is necessary, is to prevent the spread of this aggressive form of cancer to other parts of her body. Two rounds would not save her life.
Some frustrating news was that we could not get the results of the PET scan she did yesterday. Mom is in a Sarcoma study. The terms of the funding (dumb as they are) state that the surgeons and Dr.’s cannot see the results of the 2nd PET scan until after the 4th round and 3rd PET scan. They do not want it to influence how they would treat Mom’s cancer (or anyone else in the study). It would seem to us and them, that it is helpful and vital info, but Mom had to agree before she started treatment that she would participate and that she understood this step. Ok, 2 ½ months later we forgot that part. They did say that if Dr. Conrad felt strongly that he needed the PET scan results in order to possibly change her treatment that he could look at them and simply remove her from the study. He did not feel at this time that he needed the scan to decide what was in Mom’s best interest, so she stays in the study and we won’t know that outcome until after round 4 and the 3rd PET scan.
So, here now is some good news. Since the last two rounds have absolutely kicked Mom on her toosh, they have decided to reduce her chemo dosage by 20%. They are hoping it will help reduce her staggering side effects, and eliminate the toxic brain reaction she has had. The first round was horrific, the second was awful as well. You may recall during round 2, she couldn’t talk for about a day and a half, but could hear and understand perfectly. It was so frightening for her.
Some more good news is that they agreed after the x-ray of the port, that it was not placed correctly. It will have to be redone and they cannot do it until Monday. The significance of that is that she won’t go in on Thursday for the chemo. She earned a “stay out of jail” card and gets to have the rest of the week and the weekend off before going back in. They will redo the port Monday morning at SCCA, then send her over to the hospital to start the 12 hour flush before chemo starts with a new port. Yeah! No more pain with the access. I know this email is full of information and lengthy, but I would ask you to indulge me for a bit more to share something else.
About 13 years ago, our son Brittain was 10 weeks old when he got a strange disease known as Kawasaki Syndrome. Britt spent about 5 months in the infant ICU unit at Children’s hospital in Seattle. We were told on 3 separate occasions that they did not expect him to live through the day. Every day they came and poked him and poked him throughout the day to draw his blood for this test then that test, as they futilely looked for what was wrong. After about four weeks, he had been poked over 65 times. It never got easier to watch. His veins failed time and again. They decided after they diagnosed him that he would need some kind of a more permanent access line that would enable them to draw blood without the constant pokes. Also he needed an iv that would not fail every few days. Brian and I had gotten good at questioning every blood draw by asking if others could be combined that were to be taken later and if it was absolutely necessary. We became bulldogs at only allowing specific people from the iv team that we knew tended to get the blood the “first time” . They came to us and told us there was a new line similar to a pic line. It was called a Hickman catheter. It went in near the neck and had two lumens (ports) that were placed at the top of the heart and allowed iv meds into booth ports. However, if blood needed to be drawn, they could stop one port and draw blood from it. He would need surgery to place it. We agreed, but I told them I wanted to meet the surgeon that would be placing it and ask him or her questions. We were told it was fairly new. As I recall it was somewhat of a prototype and there were only a few between Children’s, Harborview, and Swedish.
I came in and saw this older gentleman in his late 60’s. He had a sweet gentle spirit and kind tender eyes. I asked him all the questions we had and asked him if he had a lot of experience. I told him that we had watched our son through so much pain and that I wanted the best there was to place this new Hickman catheter. He took both my hands in his and looked me straight in the eyes and said “If you would allow me, I would be honored to place it for you. I have the most experience there is in placing the Hickman lines”. I said “Thank you so much. We would really appreciate it. We have watched him suffer through a lot in his short life. But, I don’t know your name.” He smiled a very sweet humble smile and said “I am Dr. Hickman.”
To this day, when I talk about that I cry. Today, we found out that Dr. Hickman will be replacing Mom’s line on Monday. I cried again. God is so good and faithful. He is in his early 80’s but still climbs mountains and is as steady and skilled as ever. I am taking a current picture of Brittain for Mom to show him. The Dr. in radiology today told Mom it would make Dr. Hickman misty eyed to see a picture of him. That will be two of us.
Thank you all for your prayers for Mom. We left and got lunch around 3:00. We were famished. We ate outside at one of the waterfront restaurants. It was beautiful and sunny. I felt like the sun was a warm blanket God wrapped around our shoulders at the end of a long, long day. He is awesome.
We thank you for your love, concern, prayer and support. You are each a blessing to our family and we love you.
Trusting in Him,
Kimberly and family
Friday, June 20, 2008
Great week
It was a great week. Mama has felt good all week long. She has been able to eat, enjoy company and is gaining strength. I went over to Mama and Daddy's this evening and we had a good time together. Mama was looking extra cute and was wearing my favorite of her hats. I took a picture of her and thought I would share it with you.
Monday, Mama goes up to Seattle for her PET Scan and then to Seattle again on Tuesday to meet with Dr. Conrad. Tuesday is the day we will hear the results from all the testing. We are praying the tumor is gone or is small enough to have it removed without another round of chemo. Fun fact.......Mama's leg keeps getting smaller and smaller. We are hoping!
Also the date of the Benefit Auction for Mama has changed.
SAVE THE DATE: SAT., SEPTEMBER 13, 2008
1:00pm Dessert Social, Live Music and Silent Auction
2:30pm Silent Auction Ends
3:00pm Live Auction Begins
I have been receiving phone calls from people asking where donations can be sent.
A savings account in the name of 'Ladeva Dahlin Donation' has been set up at Venture Bank in Centralia, WA.
Or donations can be sent to our work address which has a secure mailbox and we can deposit them in the savings:
Ladeva Dahlin
c/o Rockcrest Construction Co.
1310 NW State Ave. PMB 118
Chehalis, WA 98532
We are looking forward to a nice weekend before the Seattle trips begin on Monday. Please keep up the prayers. (Especially the ones for a miracle!)
Oh...that would be so good!
With love, Carmen
Monday, Mama goes up to Seattle for her PET Scan and then to Seattle again on Tuesday to meet with Dr. Conrad. Tuesday is the day we will hear the results from all the testing. We are praying the tumor is gone or is small enough to have it removed without another round of chemo. Fun fact.......Mama's leg keeps getting smaller and smaller. We are hoping!
Also the date of the Benefit Auction for Mama has changed.
SAVE THE DATE: SAT., SEPTEMBER 13, 2008
1:00pm Dessert Social, Live Music and Silent Auction
2:30pm Silent Auction Ends
3:00pm Live Auction Begins
I have been receiving phone calls from people asking where donations can be sent.
A savings account in the name of 'Ladeva Dahlin Donation' has been set up at Venture Bank in Centralia, WA.
Or donations can be sent to our work address which has a secure mailbox and we can deposit them in the savings:
Ladeva Dahlin
c/o Rockcrest Construction Co.
1310 NW State Ave. PMB 118
Chehalis, WA 98532
We are looking forward to a nice weekend before the Seattle trips begin on Monday. Please keep up the prayers. (Especially the ones for a miracle!)
Oh...that would be so good!
With love, Carmen
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Benefit Meeting
Hello all!
I have confirmed that our next Benefit meeting planned for Friday June 27th will be held once again at Edison Place at 7pm. There is also a reception planned for that weekend, so the Edison Room that we had the meeting in last time will be occupied. However, we have graciously been offered the Board Room for our meeting. In order to not disturb the other party, we all need to use the side entrance to the building on Pine Street. Once you enter, the Board Room is located the third door to the left. Please encourage others wanting to help with the Benefit to attend this meeting.
We have crossed another huge planning hurdle for Mama's auction. Jonathan contacted Wade Samuelson, who is an attorney and also a licensed auctioneer. Wade has offered to donate his services as Auctioneer for the live auction. That is such a blessing. (This will also be fun for me to watch. When I was a kid, our family and the Samuelson family went to church together. There's lots of fun memories!)
Any items or services that are collected for the silent or live auction, please be sure to get the name and address of the person or business donating them. Please bring the contact information to the meeting so we can send thank you notes.
Thank you to everyone working to make this Benefit a success. It is a gift and a blessing to our family. We love and appreciate you all.
Carmen
I have confirmed that our next Benefit meeting planned for Friday June 27th will be held once again at Edison Place at 7pm. There is also a reception planned for that weekend, so the Edison Room that we had the meeting in last time will be occupied. However, we have graciously been offered the Board Room for our meeting. In order to not disturb the other party, we all need to use the side entrance to the building on Pine Street. Once you enter, the Board Room is located the third door to the left. Please encourage others wanting to help with the Benefit to attend this meeting.
We have crossed another huge planning hurdle for Mama's auction. Jonathan contacted Wade Samuelson, who is an attorney and also a licensed auctioneer. Wade has offered to donate his services as Auctioneer for the live auction. That is such a blessing. (This will also be fun for me to watch. When I was a kid, our family and the Samuelson family went to church together. There's lots of fun memories!)
Any items or services that are collected for the silent or live auction, please be sure to get the name and address of the person or business donating them. Please bring the contact information to the meeting so we can send thank you notes.
Thank you to everyone working to make this Benefit a success. It is a gift and a blessing to our family. We love and appreciate you all.
Carmen
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Upcoming tests
Hi everyone,
Mom is going back on the 24th at 8:00 am for her PET scan and then over to Seattle Cancer Care Alliance for an appointment with her Oncologist. We should have the MRI and CAT scan results back by then.
Please pray that the tumor is just plain GONE! It would be great for her to not have to go through a 3rd round of chemo.
She continues to have good days and we are blessed to see her smile again. Thank you for your cards, calls and prayer. The 24th will be a HUGE day as it will tell us where to go from here.
Thank you for praying with us.
Love,
Kimberly and family
Mom is going back on the 24th at 8:00 am for her PET scan and then over to Seattle Cancer Care Alliance for an appointment with her Oncologist. We should have the MRI and CAT scan results back by then.
Please pray that the tumor is just plain GONE! It would be great for her to not have to go through a 3rd round of chemo.
She continues to have good days and we are blessed to see her smile again. Thank you for your cards, calls and prayer. The 24th will be a HUGE day as it will tell us where to go from here.
Thank you for praying with us.
Love,
Kimberly and family
Monday, June 16, 2008
New week
Hi everyone,
I apologize for being silent for several days. John Gruber posts all our updates for us (as I am “blog administratively challenged”) He and Nichole have a beautiful 15 month old daughter Lily, and she has been sick since last Wednesday. They made two trips to urgent care on Friday and a trip to the ER at Mary Bridge Children’s hospital Saturday. Lily was released, but is back at the hospital as of today and spending the night. She has an intestinal virus and has been running a fever and not interested in food or drink for several days. This has been a worrisome and stressful time for them.
Mom has been doing so well that I really didn’t want to burden John with having to post daily. Please pray for Lily, Nichole and John. They are precious to us and have no family here in WA state, (outside of our church family, which loves them to pieces!)
Ok,
About Mom and Dad:
Mom had a good weekend and enjoyed the nice weather. Yesterday (Father’s day) Carmen, Troy, Maria, Sadie, Nate and Sandy Macomber were all there in afternoon for lunch and to spend time with Mom and Dad. Brian and I and the kids were with Brian’s parents in Lacey. Brian’s Mom, Jane had rotator cuff surgery and is slowly recovering. Dad, Troy, Brittain, Glynn (Brian’s Dad) and Brian went to a golf course and hit balls while Paris and I stayed with Jane. Carmen, Sandy, Maria and kids stayed with Mom. There was a whole lot of “Grandma sitting” going on this weekend. After that, Brian and the kids and I went down to Mom and Dad’s to spend some time with everyone.
Mom had a good weekend and is still feeling pretty good. We are still waiting for confirmation on when she will return to UWMC for her next tests and chemo. Thank you for your faithful following on the blog. I really do need to learn how to post these so I can cut John loose.
I would like to ask you to pray for Lily and her Mom and Dad. It’s hard to watch our babies hurt. We are hopeful she will be released tomorrow. I will update you if that changes.
(I am hoping John will post a picture of little Lily so you can see her sweet face in your mind when you pray for her. If you want to see more, click here: The Grubers or if you want the pic to bigger, click on it)
I will be posting some information about the benefit meeting last Friday in the weeks to come. Thank you to those of you who could attend. I am personally a bit overwhelmed by all that is needed to pull this off. I want to thank Stephanie and Nate Floth from our family for heading this up. Your preparation before the meeting was huge. The rest is even bigger. I cannot begin to tell you how much we appreciate your gift of time and skills.
If anyone can come to the next meeting I am quickly learning we need tons of help to pull this off and precious little time to pull it off in. The next meeting is Friday June 27th at 7:00 PM. We could use many hands during the planning stage. Stephanie is well organized and has the experience none of the rest of us has.
Hope you all had a blessed weekend as well.
With love,
Kimberly and family
I apologize for being silent for several days. John Gruber posts all our updates for us (as I am “blog administratively challenged”) He and Nichole have a beautiful 15 month old daughter Lily, and she has been sick since last Wednesday. They made two trips to urgent care on Friday and a trip to the ER at Mary Bridge Children’s hospital Saturday. Lily was released, but is back at the hospital as of today and spending the night. She has an intestinal virus and has been running a fever and not interested in food or drink for several days. This has been a worrisome and stressful time for them.
Mom has been doing so well that I really didn’t want to burden John with having to post daily. Please pray for Lily, Nichole and John. They are precious to us and have no family here in WA state, (outside of our church family, which loves them to pieces!)
Ok,
About Mom and Dad:
Mom had a good weekend and enjoyed the nice weather. Yesterday (Father’s day) Carmen, Troy, Maria, Sadie, Nate and Sandy Macomber were all there in afternoon for lunch and to spend time with Mom and Dad. Brian and I and the kids were with Brian’s parents in Lacey. Brian’s Mom, Jane had rotator cuff surgery and is slowly recovering. Dad, Troy, Brittain, Glynn (Brian’s Dad) and Brian went to a golf course and hit balls while Paris and I stayed with Jane. Carmen, Sandy, Maria and kids stayed with Mom. There was a whole lot of “Grandma sitting” going on this weekend. After that, Brian and the kids and I went down to Mom and Dad’s to spend some time with everyone.
Mom had a good weekend and is still feeling pretty good. We are still waiting for confirmation on when she will return to UWMC for her next tests and chemo. Thank you for your faithful following on the blog. I really do need to learn how to post these so I can cut John loose.
I would like to ask you to pray for Lily and her Mom and Dad. It’s hard to watch our babies hurt. We are hopeful she will be released tomorrow. I will update you if that changes.
(I am hoping John will post a picture of little Lily so you can see her sweet face in your mind when you pray for her. If you want to see more, click here: The Grubers or if you want the pic to bigger, click on it)
I will be posting some information about the benefit meeting last Friday in the weeks to come. Thank you to those of you who could attend. I am personally a bit overwhelmed by all that is needed to pull this off. I want to thank Stephanie and Nate Floth from our family for heading this up. Your preparation before the meeting was huge. The rest is even bigger. I cannot begin to tell you how much we appreciate your gift of time and skills.
If anyone can come to the next meeting I am quickly learning we need tons of help to pull this off and precious little time to pull it off in. The next meeting is Friday June 27th at 7:00 PM. We could use many hands during the planning stage. Stephanie is well organized and has the experience none of the rest of us has.
Hope you all had a blessed weekend as well.
With love,
Kimberly and family
Friday, June 13, 2008
Benefit Reminder
Hi everyone,
I just wanted to send out a reminder to anyone that was wanting to attend the planning meeting for the benefit planned in September.
The initial meeting to plan the event has been set for (tonight) Friday, June 13th, 7:00 pm at Edison Place (formerly the Presbyterian Church), located on the corner of Rock and Pine St. in Centralia. Please pass this information on to anyone that you think might be interested in helping.
If you would like to be involved, but are unable to attend this meeting, please call Stephanie Floth at 360-273-8062
Again, thank you to those of you who initiated and are organizing this planning meeting and event. I have been told that it normally takes 9-12 months to plan and procure items and services for such an event. I know that those of you volunteering are biting off a lot. We want you to know we are humbled and abundantly grateful. This is a huge gift of love that we cannot fully express in words. Thank you to all currently involved and those who continue to express a desire to be involved.
How do you even begin to write thank you cards for that?
With love and gratitude,
Kimberly and family
I just wanted to send out a reminder to anyone that was wanting to attend the planning meeting for the benefit planned in September.
The initial meeting to plan the event has been set for (tonight) Friday, June 13th, 7:00 pm at Edison Place (formerly the Presbyterian Church), located on the corner of Rock and Pine St. in Centralia. Please pass this information on to anyone that you think might be interested in helping.
If you would like to be involved, but are unable to attend this meeting, please call Stephanie Floth at 360-273-8062
Again, thank you to those of you who initiated and are organizing this planning meeting and event. I have been told that it normally takes 9-12 months to plan and procure items and services for such an event. I know that those of you volunteering are biting off a lot. We want you to know we are humbled and abundantly grateful. This is a huge gift of love that we cannot fully express in words. Thank you to all currently involved and those who continue to express a desire to be involved.
How do you even begin to write thank you cards for that?
With love and gratitude,
Kimberly and family
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Another good day
Mom had another great day at home. Mom slept well again last night and had a good day today. She thoroughly enjoyed seeing her grandbabies Sadie and Nate, Maria and Carmen. Sandy is still “mom sitting” and cooking up a storm. It was beautiful out and she was able to visit and really enjoy her company.
Mom has an MRI scheduled in the morning on her leg to see if the tumor has shrunk any from the chemo treatments. She also has a chest CAT scan scheduled in the afternoon. Her Dr. wants the CAT scan to make sure that the cancer has not spread to her lungs which is always a concern with this type of cancer. We are thankful that both of these could be done in Lewis County and that they don’t have to make the drive to Seattle.
We would ask that you pray:
1) That the tumor is gone. (or in the least, shrunk)
2) That the cancer has not spread to any other organ or part of her body.
Thank you for praying!
Kimberly and family
Mom has an MRI scheduled in the morning on her leg to see if the tumor has shrunk any from the chemo treatments. She also has a chest CAT scan scheduled in the afternoon. Her Dr. wants the CAT scan to make sure that the cancer has not spread to her lungs which is always a concern with this type of cancer. We are thankful that both of these could be done in Lewis County and that they don’t have to make the drive to Seattle.
We would ask that you pray:
1) That the tumor is gone. (or in the least, shrunk)
2) That the cancer has not spread to any other organ or part of her body.
Thank you for praying!
Kimberly and family
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Two good days in a row!
This morning I called to check in on Mom and she had that sweet sing song voice that I have missed hearing for so long. It brought tears to my eyes to hear her speak without pain. God is so faithful, kind and gracious. He has been ever present during the worst of times. You have all prayed so faithfully for her to be healed and delivered form pain. Please join us in thanking Him for His mercy in giving her pain free days at home.
Mom and Dad both got a good night’s rest. Sleep deprivation is ugly, and they both needed it desperately. Not that THEY are ugly, the condition of sleep deprivation is what I meant!
Judy Panco stayed with mom this morning. Thank you Judy. You are a special blessing. Sandy Macomber, (Mom’s friend since they were 4 or 5??) came from Port Angeles and stayed with Mom throughout the rest of the day. She made a wonderful dinner for Mom and Dad and is staying for several days. Thank you Sandy, and Doug, for doing without your sweet wife for a few days. The girl can cook. I have been blessed enough to stay with them in Port Angeles for a class I had to take and I can testify!
We are still working out details on when Mom has to return for the PET scan, MRI and third round of chemotherapy. Will update you as we get that all scheduled.
I apologize for the late post. Now that Mom is home, Carm and I are playing it by ear as to who updates. Bear with us as we work it all out. I know so many of you check the blog throughout the day, and I (we) appreciate you even more than you know for that.
We are blessed beyond measure at the level of love and prayer Mom and Dad have received. When we have been hurting, you have lifted us up with your prayers to the Lord. We are thanking Him, and will praise Him in the good days now as well.
With love,
Kimberly and family
Mom and Dad both got a good night’s rest. Sleep deprivation is ugly, and they both needed it desperately. Not that THEY are ugly, the condition of sleep deprivation is what I meant!
Judy Panco stayed with mom this morning. Thank you Judy. You are a special blessing. Sandy Macomber, (Mom’s friend since they were 4 or 5??) came from Port Angeles and stayed with Mom throughout the rest of the day. She made a wonderful dinner for Mom and Dad and is staying for several days. Thank you Sandy, and Doug, for doing without your sweet wife for a few days. The girl can cook. I have been blessed enough to stay with them in Port Angeles for a class I had to take and I can testify!
We are still working out details on when Mom has to return for the PET scan, MRI and third round of chemotherapy. Will update you as we get that all scheduled.
I apologize for the late post. Now that Mom is home, Carm and I are playing it by ear as to who updates. Bear with us as we work it all out. I know so many of you check the blog throughout the day, and I (we) appreciate you even more than you know for that.
We are blessed beyond measure at the level of love and prayer Mom and Dad have received. When we have been hurting, you have lifted us up with your prayers to the Lord. We are thanking Him, and will praise Him in the good days now as well.
With love,
Kimberly and family
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Mama had a pretty good day today. Aunt Edna and Aunt Soli came and spent the day with her. They took Mama for a blood draw at a local lab. The results were sent to Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. Mama was relieved and happy to get a call from Seattle, confirming that she didn't have to go back for any platelets. It was a fairly quiet day. I was able to pick up some lunch and take it up to have lunch with Mama and my Aunties. Mama was able to eat without any discomfort. That is a HUGE praise. Thank you Jesus! This is the best that Mama has felt in a very long time. Mama and Daddy have been having a nice relaxing evening. They are snuggled up on the sofa as I type. It makes me so happy to see them both feeling good and relaxing. Prayers are being answered. Blessings to all of you.
With love,
Carmen
With love,
Carmen
Monday, June 9, 2008
Sweet Monday
They are finally home! They got the good word this morning, but as always we sat in the room until 2:30 before we got all the discharge papers, and wheeled her out the door. They got home just before 5:00 and their sweet lifelong friend Judy Panco, brought them dinner.
(Thank you Judy. It was just what they needed.)
Carmen went straight from work over there to Mom & Dad sit.
They each got a much anticipated HOT shower and Mom is in her jammies relaxing on the couch. I am sure she is snuggled under her healing quilt…..uh, healing. Dad has spent much time charting out the new regimen of meds and at what intervals. It is really a huge undertaking and he is really good at keeping it all straight.
Thank you everyone for your faithful prayers and love.
There really is no place like home.
With much love,
Kimberly and family
(Thank you Judy. It was just what they needed.)
Carmen went straight from work over there to Mom & Dad sit.
They each got a much anticipated HOT shower and Mom is in her jammies relaxing on the couch. I am sure she is snuggled under her healing quilt…..uh, healing. Dad has spent much time charting out the new regimen of meds and at what intervals. It is really a huge undertaking and he is really good at keeping it all straight.
Thank you everyone for your faithful prayers and love.
There really is no place like home.
With much love,
Kimberly and family
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Mama had a very long night last night. There were too many interruptions for her to get much sleep. She had a fever which was a reaction to receiving the platelets. So she alternated between being chilled and then hot. Then Mama received two units of red blood cells, which comes with multiple regular vitals checks. She has been absolutely exhausted today. Mama's mouth and throat are a little better. Her lower GI Tract is still trying to recover from the chemo, so its still creating difficulties. Finding something she is able to eat has been a challenge. Kimmy came up this evening with some Egg Flower soup. It was fortunately a hit. If Mama can eat and drink enough to sustain her at home and her blood counts stabilizes, she will be able to go home. So she is doing everything she can to get to go home tomorrow.
Mama, Daddy, Kimmy & I had a good time of prayer together this evening. We were all able talk to the Lord about our discouragement and frustrations, but most importantly we were able to thank God and praise Him for who He is, all that He has done for us and all that He will be doing for Mama in the future. It was a good time with the Lord, so we are feeling refreshed and encouraged once again. We want you all to know that we are so thankful for your continued prayers. When we reach the valleys and it is so hard to find the words to pray, we know you are holding us up in prayer and interceding for us. Thank you!
With love,
Carmen
Mama, Daddy, Kimmy & I had a good time of prayer together this evening. We were all able talk to the Lord about our discouragement and frustrations, but most importantly we were able to thank God and praise Him for who He is, all that He has done for us and all that He will be doing for Mama in the future. It was a good time with the Lord, so we are feeling refreshed and encouraged once again. We want you all to know that we are so thankful for your continued prayers. When we reach the valleys and it is so hard to find the words to pray, we know you are holding us up in prayer and interceding for us. Thank you!
With love,
Carmen
Saturday evening
Carmen has been with Mom and Dad all day and has decided to spend the night. Dad is completely wiped out and is going down to the 6th floor waiting room to find a couch. (Yeah. The 8” wide couches I mentioned in an earlier post) He won’t go home for a good night’s rest so we have to settle for this for now. Hopefully he will be able to get some rest there. Carmen will stay in the room with Mom to help out throughout the night. Please pray for him. He is at the end of himself and physically shot.
Mom is struggling with back and neck pain as well now. She is hurting and has heat on her neck. At the same time, she is also chilled and can’t get warm. This is apparently a side effect of receiving the platelets. She is getting two additional blood transfusions tonight.
Her mouth is slightly better and she ate a bit of smooth soft food today. Not much, but more than she has been able to eat in about 5 days. Please continue to pray that she can have a complete recovery of her white blood cells and her mouth will heal up enough for her to eat, drink and return home.
With love and gratitude to each of you,
Kimberly and family
Mom is struggling with back and neck pain as well now. She is hurting and has heat on her neck. At the same time, she is also chilled and can’t get warm. This is apparently a side effect of receiving the platelets. She is getting two additional blood transfusions tonight.
Her mouth is slightly better and she ate a bit of smooth soft food today. Not much, but more than she has been able to eat in about 5 days. Please continue to pray that she can have a complete recovery of her white blood cells and her mouth will heal up enough for her to eat, drink and return home.
With love and gratitude to each of you,
Kimberly and family
Friday, June 6, 2008
Make sure you read both of these new posts as the one below this one has info. about a benefit being organized for Ladeva.
Another day in the hospital. Mom is still struggling with mouth and throat sores. Maria spent the day ministering to Mom and Dad both. (Thanks sis. We love you)
The Dr. on the surgical team did not make an appearance to address the port issue. We are constantly reminding ourselves that while we sit hour by excruciating hour waiting for one person to come in, we are on hospital time. They come when they can and if they can. So we will wait for a time they are available. The port is working as long as they keep the fluid flow at a minimum.
Mom’s only request for prayer tonight was that we ask the Lord for healing, or enough improvement for her to spend her time in between chemo at home and not at the hospital.
We continue to read the blog postings and emails to her daily. Keep them coming if you have the time. They are a huge blessing and they keep her from feeling cut off from those she loves and misses.
Love to you all.
Kimberly and family
Another day in the hospital. Mom is still struggling with mouth and throat sores. Maria spent the day ministering to Mom and Dad both. (Thanks sis. We love you)
The Dr. on the surgical team did not make an appearance to address the port issue. We are constantly reminding ourselves that while we sit hour by excruciating hour waiting for one person to come in, we are on hospital time. They come when they can and if they can. So we will wait for a time they are available. The port is working as long as they keep the fluid flow at a minimum.
Mom’s only request for prayer tonight was that we ask the Lord for healing, or enough improvement for her to spend her time in between chemo at home and not at the hospital.
We continue to read the blog postings and emails to her daily. Keep them coming if you have the time. They are a huge blessing and they keep her from feeling cut off from those she loves and misses.
Love to you all.
Kimberly and family
Benefit for Ladeva
I have been asked to send out an announcement:
Friends and Family are coming together to plan a benefit to help offset the expenses incurred from Mom's Cancer treatment. The benefit will be held on Sept. 20, 2008. It will be a dessert social with live music and both a silent and live auction.
The initial meeting to plan the event has been set for Fri., June 13th, 7:00 pm at Edison Place (formerly the Presbyterian Church), located on the corner of Rock and Pine St. in Centralia. Please pass this information on to anyone that you think might be interested in helping.
If you would like to be involved, but are unable to attend this meeting, please call Stephanie Floth at 360-273-8062 or email me via the link in the sidebar. Your name and contact information will be passed on to the appropriate committee member. More contact numbers will be posted after the initial meeting.
It has touched our hearts that so many have come forward with this offer of love and support. We have felt God's love through the prayers and actions of others. We are truly blessed.
With love,
Carmen
Friends and Family are coming together to plan a benefit to help offset the expenses incurred from Mom's Cancer treatment. The benefit will be held on Sept. 20, 2008. It will be a dessert social with live music and both a silent and live auction.
The initial meeting to plan the event has been set for Fri., June 13th, 7:00 pm at Edison Place (formerly the Presbyterian Church), located on the corner of Rock and Pine St. in Centralia. Please pass this information on to anyone that you think might be interested in helping.
If you would like to be involved, but are unable to attend this meeting, please call Stephanie Floth at 360-273-8062 or email me via the link in the sidebar. Your name and contact information will be passed on to the appropriate committee member. More contact numbers will be posted after the initial meeting.
It has touched our hearts that so many have come forward with this offer of love and support. We have felt God's love through the prayers and actions of others. We are truly blessed.
With love,
Carmen
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Today has been another hard day for Mom. Only one side of her port was accessed at Cancer Care yesterday and they had so many meds to give her that they wanted to access the second port site right next to it. We asked for the nurse with the most experience at placing port needles. The nurse that came in was very confident that she could get it done.
I stay with Mom as Dad steps out when any procedure having to do with needles comes up. This way the nurses don't have to catch him on the way down. The nurse gave Mom several local anesthetic shots to numb the site. She tried about 6-7 times with no luck. By the time she finished she was rattled, Mom was a wreck and I was beside myself.
If you haven't seen a port or how they are accessed I am not sure I could do it justice in describing it. I can tell you that after Troy and Maria's house flood I was helping Carmen hang some wainscoting in the dining room with a nail gun using finishing nails. That is what the needles look like to me, but with a sharper end. They have a small bend at the tip and they puncture the skin first but then proceed to rotate them slightly. With Mom they seem to have to use a lot of pressure to insert it deeper. Now, normally this would not be the case. (when the port site that receives the needles are in straight) the needles slide right in. We have been told time and time again that a port site is a huge blessing as you don't have to keep being poked. (Unless it is in at an angle.) I don't know who's hand was hurting worse, mine or Mom's. We were squeezing each other so hard. What we know for sure is that it is not in as it should be. There should not be this trauma to her every time they try to access it. Ok, so then they called the nurse that got it in for her last week when it had to be changed. She came in confident she could access it as well, but it took another 7 tries. It is so hard to watch her go through this and it was so painful even with the lydoacine injection. After it was in they gave her morphine to essentially knock her out as her nerves were a jangled mess. I couldn't get them to give me any however. I could have used a sedative. :)
So after that, we called the Dr. and just let them know that she could not go through this another time. Something has to be done to fix it. She may have to undergo another surgical procedure to fix it, but in the big scheme of things it will have to be done. She just can't have this happen every time. The surgical team will be coming in and discussing this with Mom and Dad most likely tomorrow.
She will have to come back here around the 20th of this month and have another PET scan. This scan will tell them a few things.
1) If the tumor is shrinking from the chemo.
2) How to adjust the chemo dosage for her third round.
We are asking them to replace her port placement just before starting her 3rd round.
Mom took the news that she would be staying a while longer with a few tears. There are just not enough good days at home for her before having to come back for the next treatment, especially when she feels crummy. We all want to be at our own homes when we are sick. Please pray that:
1) Her white blood cell count will come back up soon so her mouth, throat, GI tract and body will start to heal quickly.
2) That she can eat and drink as this will determine how soon she can return home.
3) That the port issue will be resolved once and for all.
4) That the tumor will have shrunk enough to have the surgery and be removed, or for God's total healing and that it will be gone completely.
I know that the Lord is hearing our cries and cares so much about every bit of pain Mom is feeling. Thank you for caring as well.
Maria will be coming up tomorrow to stay with Mom and Dad. Let's all pray that Saturday is a "go home" day.
Love you much,
Kimberly and family
I stay with Mom as Dad steps out when any procedure having to do with needles comes up. This way the nurses don't have to catch him on the way down. The nurse gave Mom several local anesthetic shots to numb the site. She tried about 6-7 times with no luck. By the time she finished she was rattled, Mom was a wreck and I was beside myself.
If you haven't seen a port or how they are accessed I am not sure I could do it justice in describing it. I can tell you that after Troy and Maria's house flood I was helping Carmen hang some wainscoting in the dining room with a nail gun using finishing nails. That is what the needles look like to me, but with a sharper end. They have a small bend at the tip and they puncture the skin first but then proceed to rotate them slightly. With Mom they seem to have to use a lot of pressure to insert it deeper. Now, normally this would not be the case. (when the port site that receives the needles are in straight) the needles slide right in. We have been told time and time again that a port site is a huge blessing as you don't have to keep being poked. (Unless it is in at an angle.) I don't know who's hand was hurting worse, mine or Mom's. We were squeezing each other so hard. What we know for sure is that it is not in as it should be. There should not be this trauma to her every time they try to access it. Ok, so then they called the nurse that got it in for her last week when it had to be changed. She came in confident she could access it as well, but it took another 7 tries. It is so hard to watch her go through this and it was so painful even with the lydoacine injection. After it was in they gave her morphine to essentially knock her out as her nerves were a jangled mess. I couldn't get them to give me any however. I could have used a sedative. :)
So after that, we called the Dr. and just let them know that she could not go through this another time. Something has to be done to fix it. She may have to undergo another surgical procedure to fix it, but in the big scheme of things it will have to be done. She just can't have this happen every time. The surgical team will be coming in and discussing this with Mom and Dad most likely tomorrow.
She will have to come back here around the 20th of this month and have another PET scan. This scan will tell them a few things.
1) If the tumor is shrinking from the chemo.
2) How to adjust the chemo dosage for her third round.
We are asking them to replace her port placement just before starting her 3rd round.
Mom took the news that she would be staying a while longer with a few tears. There are just not enough good days at home for her before having to come back for the next treatment, especially when she feels crummy. We all want to be at our own homes when we are sick. Please pray that:
1) Her white blood cell count will come back up soon so her mouth, throat, GI tract and body will start to heal quickly.
2) That she can eat and drink as this will determine how soon she can return home.
3) That the port issue will be resolved once and for all.
4) That the tumor will have shrunk enough to have the surgery and be removed, or for God's total healing and that it will be gone completely.
I know that the Lord is hearing our cries and cares so much about every bit of pain Mom is feeling. Thank you for caring as well.
Maria will be coming up tomorrow to stay with Mom and Dad. Let's all pray that Saturday is a "go home" day.
Love you much,
Kimberly and family
Back to Seattle
Wednesday Evening
Carmen called about 5:00 to tell me that the Dr. had decided to admit Mom back into the hospital today. She was at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance today getting an infusion of hydration.
They also had to place new needles in her port. The first one did not work well, so they had to remove it and redo it. Apparently she bled more than usual. Her blood test shows her platelet count is very low so she is not clotting like they want her to. They wanted her to return tomorrow for a blood transfusion.
The Dr. looked at her mouth and throat and it is typical of the chemo side effects. This is just much worse than last time. They asked Mom to rate her pain on a scale of 1-10 (10 being the worst) Mom stated it was a 10. With that, they decided they needed to do what they could to get her comfortable now and not send her home in that much pain. They have settled in at the UW hospital and she is getting morphine through her port, and will receiver her transfusion as well. Her blood has to go through extra special “washes” so it is never blood just lying around so to speak of.
Troy drove up with Carmen’s son Cameron tonight to pick her up and bring her home. She rode up to help Mom and Dad and has been there with them until late this evening.
Thank you Carmen for staying with them, and thank you Troy and Cameron for going and getting the girl. The waiting room couches are about 8”wide so not the best place to lay your head. I am so blessed to have you guys. Thank you for being there when I can’t. “Good teamwork”, as Mom would say. (if she could talk)
I can’t even guess how long this stay may be. Sometimes things change by the minute so there is no point in speculating. I am praying for a spontaneous healing and that they can return home by late morning.
I will be heading up after I drop our kids off at school, but do not know if I will be able to update the blog until late evening, so I may ask Carm to do it from work if things change during the day.
Please continue to lift Mom and Dad up. Mom has been asked many times throughout this process where her pain level is. She has had a lot of pain throughout this ordeal, but I have not heard her answer to a 10 until today. She is one tough cookie, so I know that today was hard on her.
We are all so thankful to each of you. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you for praying for her faithfully.
Kimberly and family
Carmen called about 5:00 to tell me that the Dr. had decided to admit Mom back into the hospital today. She was at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance today getting an infusion of hydration.
They also had to place new needles in her port. The first one did not work well, so they had to remove it and redo it. Apparently she bled more than usual. Her blood test shows her platelet count is very low so she is not clotting like they want her to. They wanted her to return tomorrow for a blood transfusion.
The Dr. looked at her mouth and throat and it is typical of the chemo side effects. This is just much worse than last time. They asked Mom to rate her pain on a scale of 1-10 (10 being the worst) Mom stated it was a 10. With that, they decided they needed to do what they could to get her comfortable now and not send her home in that much pain. They have settled in at the UW hospital and she is getting morphine through her port, and will receiver her transfusion as well. Her blood has to go through extra special “washes” so it is never blood just lying around so to speak of.
Troy drove up with Carmen’s son Cameron tonight to pick her up and bring her home. She rode up to help Mom and Dad and has been there with them until late this evening.
Thank you Carmen for staying with them, and thank you Troy and Cameron for going and getting the girl. The waiting room couches are about 8”wide so not the best place to lay your head. I am so blessed to have you guys. Thank you for being there when I can’t. “Good teamwork”, as Mom would say. (if she could talk)
I can’t even guess how long this stay may be. Sometimes things change by the minute so there is no point in speculating. I am praying for a spontaneous healing and that they can return home by late morning.
I will be heading up after I drop our kids off at school, but do not know if I will be able to update the blog until late evening, so I may ask Carm to do it from work if things change during the day.
Please continue to lift Mom and Dad up. Mom has been asked many times throughout this process where her pain level is. She has had a lot of pain throughout this ordeal, but I have not heard her answer to a 10 until today. She is one tough cookie, so I know that today was hard on her.
We are all so thankful to each of you. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you for praying for her faithfully.
Kimberly and family
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Dad and Carmen are taking Mom up to Seattle Cancer Care Alliance today. She is pretty miserable. She hasn’t been able to swallow due to the sores in her mouth and down her throat, so they need to get her in for hydration.
She has other symptoms making her miserable as well. Please pray for a reprieve and healing of these other things she must battle through.
I hope to update you this evening.
Thank you,
Kimberly
She has other symptoms making her miserable as well. Please pray for a reprieve and healing of these other things she must battle through.
I hope to update you this evening.
Thank you,
Kimberly
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Prayer
Mom slept half the night.
Please pray for her as she continues to battle this excruciating pain in her throat and mouth.
I know it WILL get better in time.
I appreciate your intercessory prayer whenever we can get it.
Thank you,
Kimberly
Please pray for her as she continues to battle this excruciating pain in her throat and mouth.
I know it WILL get better in time.
I appreciate your intercessory prayer whenever we can get it.
Thank you,
Kimberly
Monday, June 2, 2008
Mom saw her Dr. in Chehalis this morning.
The Dr. felt that because she did not have a temperature, she probably did not have strep. She gave Mom meds for thrush thinking it may help. Hmm. Maybe if she could swallow, the meds would help. The problem however, is swallowing
This has been a hard day. She didnt sleep at all last night. It hurts to swallow her own saliva, so then to take fists full of meds throughout the day is beyond challenging. Please pray that she can sleep tonight and that the sores will be better soon. I know she feels awful and its such a helpless feeling not being able to make her comfortable.
I hope I can give a better report tomorrow.
Thank you for your prayers.
Kimberly and clan
The Dr. felt that because she did not have a temperature, she probably did not have strep. She gave Mom meds for thrush thinking it may help. Hmm. Maybe if she could swallow, the meds would help. The problem however, is swallowing
This has been a hard day. She didnt sleep at all last night. It hurts to swallow her own saliva, so then to take fists full of meds throughout the day is beyond challenging. Please pray that she can sleep tonight and that the sores will be better soon. I know she feels awful and its such a helpless feeling not being able to make her comfortable.
I hope I can give a better report tomorrow.
Thank you for your prayers.
Kimberly and clan
Sore throat
Hi everyone,
Mom’s throat is super painful and so she is heading to see the Dr. this morning to make sure it is not strep on top of the chemo sores. Due to the fact that she is still taking antibiotics, I am hoping it is not strep and that she is adequately protected from that possibility. But with white blood cell counts low, who knows?
I will update more later and let you know the outcome. She didn’t feel like talking today, so I am not sure how the night went.
Thank you for your prayers on Mom’s behalf.
Love,
Kimberly and family
Mom’s throat is super painful and so she is heading to see the Dr. this morning to make sure it is not strep on top of the chemo sores. Due to the fact that she is still taking antibiotics, I am hoping it is not strep and that she is adequately protected from that possibility. But with white blood cell counts low, who knows?
I will update more later and let you know the outcome. She didn’t feel like talking today, so I am not sure how the night went.
Thank you for your prayers on Mom’s behalf.
Love,
Kimberly and family
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Another good day
Today was a good day. Mom was able to sleep through the night again with the help of her Lorazipam. It’s an anti nausea and sedating medication. She is having some uncomfortable symptoms but is trying to manage them as much as possible. The sores in her mouth and throat are bothering her but she is trying to continue with the mouth wash and homemade rinse Dad concocted for her.
She was able to eat today. Dad has been keeping her on schedule with all her meds. I cannot even explain to you how many she is taking in a day. She takes literally handfuls all day long and Dad has the schedule down pat. They are all scheduled and written down on tablets. There is no way one person could keep track of this especially when they don’t feel good. We are so grateful for Dad’s watchful eye and impeccable care.
Troy and Maria came over for about an hour today and Mom got to see the Sadie and Nate for the first time I believe since April 25th. They are the best medicine. They make her smile and boost her spirits. Hey, who am I kidding, they boost all of our spirits.
Carmen came to stay with Mom so Dad could run some errands. She made dinner and is there still tonight.
Right now I would say all in all it was a pretty good day minus some side effects she may be fighting for a while.
1) For the sores in both her mouth and her throat. It makes it hard to swallow and can be painful.
2) For the side effects of her meds as some of them she can’t get rid of, just attempt to manage.
3) For continued sleep and rest for both her and Dad.
4) For her to be able to eat and drink regularly as this is so important to her well being. It is also hard to do when you feel crummy.
Thank you again. It seems redundant, but I can’t explain how thankful we are to each and every one of you. Thank you also for the postings. She reads them, or they are read to her every day.
Love,
Kimberly and family
She was able to eat today. Dad has been keeping her on schedule with all her meds. I cannot even explain to you how many she is taking in a day. She takes literally handfuls all day long and Dad has the schedule down pat. They are all scheduled and written down on tablets. There is no way one person could keep track of this especially when they don’t feel good. We are so grateful for Dad’s watchful eye and impeccable care.
Troy and Maria came over for about an hour today and Mom got to see the Sadie and Nate for the first time I believe since April 25th. They are the best medicine. They make her smile and boost her spirits. Hey, who am I kidding, they boost all of our spirits.
Carmen came to stay with Mom so Dad could run some errands. She made dinner and is there still tonight.
Right now I would say all in all it was a pretty good day minus some side effects she may be fighting for a while.
1) For the sores in both her mouth and her throat. It makes it hard to swallow and can be painful.
2) For the side effects of her meds as some of them she can’t get rid of, just attempt to manage.
3) For continued sleep and rest for both her and Dad.
4) For her to be able to eat and drink regularly as this is so important to her well being. It is also hard to do when you feel crummy.
Thank you again. It seems redundant, but I can’t explain how thankful we are to each and every one of you. Thank you also for the postings. She reads them, or they are read to her every day.
Love,
Kimberly and family
Great Saturday
Saturday May 31, 2008
I’m sorry this is getting typed on Sunday morning. (about midnight)
I wanted to have it done earlier in the day but have had so much trouble getting our internet to cooperate all day.
I spoke with Mom around noon (Saturday). She was perky and happily reported that she has slept ELEVEN hours!!
I’m pretty sure Mom hasn’t slept eleven hours in a couple of decades, but not more than 4 in a row in over 9 months.
This was a huge blessing. She said she only woke up long enough to take the meds Dad brought her and was able to fall right back asleep again. Mom has had difficulty sleeping through the night for years. It was so frustrating when she was still working for PCLI and could not fall back asleep again after 3:00AM etc.
She had some nausea in the morning and yet was able to drink the Carnation instant breakfast shake Dad made her and some eggs. I spoke with her again late afternoon and she was sitting on her deck with Dad and my Aunt Edna (Mom’s sis) having some soup. She said she felt like she had more energy today than Friday and didn’t really have much nausea either. Her mouth is starting to hurt like it did with her last round, so I would ask you to keep that in your prayers please.
I will get an update again in the morning and hopefully get it up before midnight.
We felt so encouraged that Mom was having a good day. It has been too long since she has had one of those.
Thank you for your prayers for her. I am relieved to have such a positive day to report.
God bless,
Kimberly
I’m sorry this is getting typed on Sunday morning. (about midnight)
I wanted to have it done earlier in the day but have had so much trouble getting our internet to cooperate all day.
I spoke with Mom around noon (Saturday). She was perky and happily reported that she has slept ELEVEN hours!!
I’m pretty sure Mom hasn’t slept eleven hours in a couple of decades, but not more than 4 in a row in over 9 months.
This was a huge blessing. She said she only woke up long enough to take the meds Dad brought her and was able to fall right back asleep again. Mom has had difficulty sleeping through the night for years. It was so frustrating when she was still working for PCLI and could not fall back asleep again after 3:00AM etc.
She had some nausea in the morning and yet was able to drink the Carnation instant breakfast shake Dad made her and some eggs. I spoke with her again late afternoon and she was sitting on her deck with Dad and my Aunt Edna (Mom’s sis) having some soup. She said she felt like she had more energy today than Friday and didn’t really have much nausea either. Her mouth is starting to hurt like it did with her last round, so I would ask you to keep that in your prayers please.
I will get an update again in the morning and hopefully get it up before midnight.
We felt so encouraged that Mom was having a good day. It has been too long since she has had one of those.
Thank you for your prayers for her. I am relieved to have such a positive day to report.
God bless,
Kimberly
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