Hi everyone,
I just wanted to update you on Mom's first day of radiation.
She was there about 1 1/2 hours.
She said most of that time was spent trying to position her perfectly and get her lined up for all future treatments. She said they were all very careful and conscience with their measuring. The treatment did not last that long and was pain free.
They told her it should be that way for 2-3 weeks before she feels any discomfort.
That is great as she has had enough of the pain stuff.
Will update you as she progresses.
Thank you for all the encouragement and prayers. It makes a difference day in and day out.
Lovingly,
Kimberly and family
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Sunday, August 24, 2008
What's new
Hi everyone,
Just an update about Mom.
She is doing well. Still intermittent nerve pain in her leg, but she takes meds for the pain when necessary.
She is starting to drive again a little and is so thankful to be able to get around now that she is feeling better and not on heavy doses of pain medication.
Yesterday we had a work party at Carmen's to help her paint her house. Mom and Paris went to Troy and Maria's to take care of Sadie and Nate while we all scraped and painted. Mom said she had a wonderful afternoon with the kids. Paris loves Nate and Sadie so much and they love to play with her. Mom said they all laid in the hammock and Paris was able to do the chasing and in and out breaks with the kids. She is really great with the kids and they played well all day. Brian,Paris and I had picked blackberries Friday night and when we left to go home, we discovered Grandma, Paris and the kids had made a cobbler with them. (I knew we had left the with the right person!) The house was looking great and Grandma said she wasn't tired at all. They headed to Carmen's to see the progress. The kids played in the yard and Mom was able to be with them and sit in a nice lawn chair with her leg up and a blanket over her. She seemed content and happy despite the fact that it drives her crazy to not be able to help paint. We just love being in her presence, so it was fun to have her there. She is usually working like crazy at all our family work parties. She has been such an example of servitude to us all for so long. It's hard to keep a good woman down though, so it's good that Dad was there to help rein her in and keep an eye on her. :)
Mom was "adopted" by Ray and Ida Altringer over 25 years ago as her surrogate parents. Ida passed away on Friday. Her funeral is Tuesday. Mom will miss her very much. They first met when she was working at the Toledo Senior Center. Yesterday Ray and his daughter Lynn brought Mom some flowers to arrange for the funeral. Mom was happy to be asked to put something together for her funeral. Tuesday will be a sad day. She loves them both so much and Lynn has always loved Mom and included her as a sister.
Radiation starts Wednesday so I probably won't update again until after that, unless something else comes up in the meantime.
I appreciate having this blog and getting to give you a glimpse into how things are going for her. She remains grateful for all you who have loved her so well.
With gratitude,
Kimberly
Just an update about Mom.
She is doing well. Still intermittent nerve pain in her leg, but she takes meds for the pain when necessary.
She is starting to drive again a little and is so thankful to be able to get around now that she is feeling better and not on heavy doses of pain medication.
Yesterday we had a work party at Carmen's to help her paint her house. Mom and Paris went to Troy and Maria's to take care of Sadie and Nate while we all scraped and painted. Mom said she had a wonderful afternoon with the kids. Paris loves Nate and Sadie so much and they love to play with her. Mom said they all laid in the hammock and Paris was able to do the chasing and in and out breaks with the kids. She is really great with the kids and they played well all day. Brian,Paris and I had picked blackberries Friday night and when we left to go home, we discovered Grandma, Paris and the kids had made a cobbler with them. (I knew we had left the with the right person!) The house was looking great and Grandma said she wasn't tired at all. They headed to Carmen's to see the progress. The kids played in the yard and Mom was able to be with them and sit in a nice lawn chair with her leg up and a blanket over her. She seemed content and happy despite the fact that it drives her crazy to not be able to help paint. We just love being in her presence, so it was fun to have her there. She is usually working like crazy at all our family work parties. She has been such an example of servitude to us all for so long. It's hard to keep a good woman down though, so it's good that Dad was there to help rein her in and keep an eye on her. :)
Mom was "adopted" by Ray and Ida Altringer over 25 years ago as her surrogate parents. Ida passed away on Friday. Her funeral is Tuesday. Mom will miss her very much. They first met when she was working at the Toledo Senior Center. Yesterday Ray and his daughter Lynn brought Mom some flowers to arrange for the funeral. Mom was happy to be asked to put something together for her funeral. Tuesday will be a sad day. She loves them both so much and Lynn has always loved Mom and included her as a sister.
Radiation starts Wednesday so I probably won't update again until after that, unless something else comes up in the meantime.
I appreciate having this blog and getting to give you a glimpse into how things are going for her. She remains grateful for all you who have loved her so well.
With gratitude,
Kimberly
Friday, August 22, 2008
Thank you!
Great news!
The insurance concern has gone away.
Carmen took care of everything and got it straightened out yesterday.
I just wanted those of you who were praying about it to know, and to thank you for your prayers. Mom and Dad have been dealing with so much and I have appreciated your requests for specific items to pray over. Thank you! You all have been such a blessing to our family.
Kimberly and family
The insurance concern has gone away.
Carmen took care of everything and got it straightened out yesterday.
I just wanted those of you who were praying about it to know, and to thank you for your prayers. Mom and Dad have been dealing with so much and I have appreciated your requests for specific items to pray over. Thank you! You all have been such a blessing to our family.
Kimberly and family
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Tattooing complete.
Yesterday Mom got her tattoo's on her leg to help direct the radiation better.
She is set for her first round of radiation next Wednesday. She will go daily for 5 weeks except weekends and holidays.
Mom is having some more discomfort in her leg again. Not like before, but enough that I wanted to ask you to pray about that specifically.
I'll keep it short, but there is a possible challenge with insurance. This has a potential to cause some stress for them both. I am hoping it is a mistake, but I would ask you to partner with us in praying about it as well if you would.
God has all the details worked out with everything already but when you can't see the whole picture it can feel scary.
I know that nothing can occur that doesn't pass through the Lord's hands first. He already knows the outcome that we are not privy to. Thank you for praying through the details.
Mom is feeling pretty good otherwise and getting around the house and doing a few things here and there. She's not one to sit around much so I know she loves feeling well enough to be a bit more active.
We are forever grateful for your love, support, encouragement and prayers for Mom and Dad.
Love,
Kimberly and family
She is set for her first round of radiation next Wednesday. She will go daily for 5 weeks except weekends and holidays.
Mom is having some more discomfort in her leg again. Not like before, but enough that I wanted to ask you to pray about that specifically.
I'll keep it short, but there is a possible challenge with insurance. This has a potential to cause some stress for them both. I am hoping it is a mistake, but I would ask you to partner with us in praying about it as well if you would.
God has all the details worked out with everything already but when you can't see the whole picture it can feel scary.
I know that nothing can occur that doesn't pass through the Lord's hands first. He already knows the outcome that we are not privy to. Thank you for praying through the details.
Mom is feeling pretty good otherwise and getting around the house and doing a few things here and there. She's not one to sit around much so I know she loves feeling well enough to be a bit more active.
We are forever grateful for your love, support, encouragement and prayers for Mom and Dad.
Love,
Kimberly and family
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Radiation update
We have more news on Mom's treatment.
Last week she was told she couldn't get in to start her radiation for several weeks due to their schedule and the Dr. was out. We were worried that the Dr.'s in Seattle would not want her to wait too long, so she called Seattle Cancer Care Alliance and they called yesterday to say that they had spoken with the Dr. and that she was back, and would be fitting her into the schedule today.
She has an 11:30 appointment for the preliminary consultation. She will go back at the end of the week for the tattooing she will get on her leg. They do this to line up her leg accurately at each visit to receive each radiation treatment.
Mom is starting to feel a little better and is able to get around and do some things here and there as long as she stops and rests in between.
Brittain is staying with them for a few days to help Grandma with a few jobs around the house and yard. She called this morning to tell me they are having a good time. They have been watching the Olympics at night and working during the day on little projects with "rest breaks" sprinkled in between.
I'll let you know if there is anything else to report after her visit today.
As of now it looks like she will start radiation next week.
Thank you for all the prayers and encouragement.
With love,
Kimberly and family
Last week she was told she couldn't get in to start her radiation for several weeks due to their schedule and the Dr. was out. We were worried that the Dr.'s in Seattle would not want her to wait too long, so she called Seattle Cancer Care Alliance and they called yesterday to say that they had spoken with the Dr. and that she was back, and would be fitting her into the schedule today.
She has an 11:30 appointment for the preliminary consultation. She will go back at the end of the week for the tattooing she will get on her leg. They do this to line up her leg accurately at each visit to receive each radiation treatment.
Mom is starting to feel a little better and is able to get around and do some things here and there as long as she stops and rests in between.
Brittain is staying with them for a few days to help Grandma with a few jobs around the house and yard. She called this morning to tell me they are having a good time. They have been watching the Olympics at night and working during the day on little projects with "rest breaks" sprinkled in between.
I'll let you know if there is anything else to report after her visit today.
As of now it looks like she will start radiation next week.
Thank you for all the prayers and encouragement.
With love,
Kimberly and family
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Short and Sweet
I don't have much to report, so I'll keep it short and sweet just like my little Mama. She is feeling pretty good and is gaining her strength daily. She has been enjoying special time visiting with family and friends, cheering on the USA Olympic teams and treasuring her time back at home.
Thank you for everyone's prayers and encouragement. You have been a blessing to all of us.
With love,
Carmen
Thank you for everyone's prayers and encouragement. You have been a blessing to all of us.
With love,
Carmen
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Good News!
This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24
We received lots of great news today! Today was Mama's appointment at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. The Doctors key word repeatedly spoken today was "Amazing!"
Answer to prayer and blessing #1: The doctors were amazed at the change in the size of Mama's tumor. The MRI showed the tumor has shrunk at least 1/2 the size from what it used to be. The difference really is a amazing!
#2: We didn't get the reading of the PET Scan, but the Doctors were able to look at the imaging and said the red "hot spots" which represent the living cancer cells were now black. Meaning the cancer cells are dead or sick. Thank you Jesus!
#3: Surgery is cancelled for tomorrow. The Doctors were pleased with the progress and felt the next step will be Radiation for 5 weeks. They were very cautious about transferring the Radiation treatment outside of Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, but to save Mama the long drive to Seattle 5 days a week, the head Radiation doctor checked and found a doctor in Lacey, WA that she had worked with before, felt comfortable and confident referring her to. The doctor had even graduated through their program. They will be setting up her care with them to begin later this week or next week. This is a huge blessing to only have to travel a half hour each way rather than the 1.75 to 2 hour each way to Seattle.
#4: After 5 weeks of Radiation, Mama will be given 4 weeks to rest and heal. The radiation typically causes the skin to feel sunburned. They expect with her skin being so sensitive, she may have some skin discomfort. After 4 weeks of healing, they will be scheduling surgery to remove that nasty old tumor.
No plan has been made so far post surgery. However, a couple rounds of chemo as an insurance may follow. Thank you to everyone for your continual prayers. We are seeing the rewards of answered prayers.
With love,
Carmen
Thank you Lord for your strength in the storm. When we have felt weary, You have held us up. Thank you for giving wisdom to the many doctors and caregivers. Thank you for orchestrating every detail of Mama's care. Thank you for the healing you have provided and continue to pour out. Today our hearts are full of joy and thankfulness. We love you Lord. All praise and glory to you. Amen
We received lots of great news today! Today was Mama's appointment at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. The Doctors key word repeatedly spoken today was "Amazing!"
Answer to prayer and blessing #1: The doctors were amazed at the change in the size of Mama's tumor. The MRI showed the tumor has shrunk at least 1/2 the size from what it used to be. The difference really is a amazing!
#2: We didn't get the reading of the PET Scan, but the Doctors were able to look at the imaging and said the red "hot spots" which represent the living cancer cells were now black. Meaning the cancer cells are dead or sick. Thank you Jesus!
#3: Surgery is cancelled for tomorrow. The Doctors were pleased with the progress and felt the next step will be Radiation for 5 weeks. They were very cautious about transferring the Radiation treatment outside of Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, but to save Mama the long drive to Seattle 5 days a week, the head Radiation doctor checked and found a doctor in Lacey, WA that she had worked with before, felt comfortable and confident referring her to. The doctor had even graduated through their program. They will be setting up her care with them to begin later this week or next week. This is a huge blessing to only have to travel a half hour each way rather than the 1.75 to 2 hour each way to Seattle.
#4: After 5 weeks of Radiation, Mama will be given 4 weeks to rest and heal. The radiation typically causes the skin to feel sunburned. They expect with her skin being so sensitive, she may have some skin discomfort. After 4 weeks of healing, they will be scheduling surgery to remove that nasty old tumor.
No plan has been made so far post surgery. However, a couple rounds of chemo as an insurance may follow. Thank you to everyone for your continual prayers. We are seeing the rewards of answered prayers.
With love,
Carmen
Thank you Lord for your strength in the storm. When we have felt weary, You have held us up. Thank you for giving wisdom to the many doctors and caregivers. Thank you for orchestrating every detail of Mama's care. Thank you for the healing you have provided and continue to pour out. Today our hearts are full of joy and thankfulness. We love you Lord. All praise and glory to you. Amen
Thank you! Thank you!
The Benefit Committee's plea for help purchasing a much needed software for the Auction has been answered!
We would like to send a big "Thank you!" to Dr. Ford and Debbie Eldridge for their generous donation from Pacific Cataract & Laser Institute. PCLI has offered to cover the full cost for the software. For those of you who may not be aware, Mom retired from PCLI last year. Mama loved working for PCLI and as you can see, they loved her too.
We have also received several more offers to donate money. The Benefit Committee gratefully welcomes any further donations. However, any future donations would be used to purchase a long list of needs such as ingredients for punch, cups, paper plates, forks, napkins, paper, printing, etc.
Please keep Mama, Daddy and our family in your prayers today. (Tuesday) We will be meeting with the Dr. to hear the results of her PET Scan and MRI. The decisions will also be made as to what is the next course of action will be. At this point, surgery to remove the tumor is scheduled for Wednesday should that be the Doctor's decision. Otherwise, I believe they will cancel surgery. Please pray for wisdom for the Doctors and all that are involved in this process. We have mixed feelings of what is best and what "good news" is to sound like. Our trust is in God, the great Physician. God's will be done.
With love and thanks,
Carmen
We would like to send a big "Thank you!" to Dr. Ford and Debbie Eldridge for their generous donation from Pacific Cataract & Laser Institute. PCLI has offered to cover the full cost for the software. For those of you who may not be aware, Mom retired from PCLI last year. Mama loved working for PCLI and as you can see, they loved her too.
We have also received several more offers to donate money. The Benefit Committee gratefully welcomes any further donations. However, any future donations would be used to purchase a long list of needs such as ingredients for punch, cups, paper plates, forks, napkins, paper, printing, etc.
Please keep Mama, Daddy and our family in your prayers today. (Tuesday) We will be meeting with the Dr. to hear the results of her PET Scan and MRI. The decisions will also be made as to what is the next course of action will be. At this point, surgery to remove the tumor is scheduled for Wednesday should that be the Doctor's decision. Otherwise, I believe they will cancel surgery. Please pray for wisdom for the Doctors and all that are involved in this process. We have mixed feelings of what is best and what "good news" is to sound like. Our trust is in God, the great Physician. God's will be done.
With love and thanks,
Carmen
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Note from the Benefit Auction Co-Chairs
35 days countdown to Ladeva's Auction.
Just a short note to all those who are interested in contributing to Ladeva's Auction. We are humbly asking for auction items. Anything appealing, unique, edible, and attractive can be auctioned off for Ladeva's Benefit. Our Auction Recorder, Patsy Poynes is requesting that all auction items be turned in for registry by August 15th!! That's this Friday. Last minute items will still be accepted.
There is an urgent need for an Auction program. This software will cost $270 and is needed immediately. This ultra important software will help register and record auction items, make certificates, and most importantly will expedite check-out. It basically organizes every item auctioned off. Please consider donating any amount towards the purchase of this item. This is the one and only monetary plea the Auction Committee has asked for. We have tried unsuccessfully to borrow this software to keep costs to a minimum, but at this point in time we absolutely need this software.
To contribute, click the link to the right, "Email Carmen about the Benefit". Be sure to have your subject line say "Ladeva's Benefit".
Thank you for your consideration.
Stephanie Floth and Debbie Grose
Benefit Auction C0-Chairs
Just a short note to all those who are interested in contributing to Ladeva's Auction. We are humbly asking for auction items. Anything appealing, unique, edible, and attractive can be auctioned off for Ladeva's Benefit. Our Auction Recorder, Patsy Poynes is requesting that all auction items be turned in for registry by August 15th!! That's this Friday. Last minute items will still be accepted.
There is an urgent need for an Auction program. This software will cost $270 and is needed immediately. This ultra important software will help register and record auction items, make certificates, and most importantly will expedite check-out. It basically organizes every item auctioned off. Please consider donating any amount towards the purchase of this item. This is the one and only monetary plea the Auction Committee has asked for. We have tried unsuccessfully to borrow this software to keep costs to a minimum, but at this point in time we absolutely need this software.
To contribute, click the link to the right, "Email Carmen about the Benefit". Be sure to have your subject line say "Ladeva's Benefit".
Thank you for your consideration.
Stephanie Floth and Debbie Grose
Benefit Auction C0-Chairs
Saturday, August 9, 2008
On the mend
Mama seems to be on the mend. Her mouth and throat sores are slowly beginning to heal. She is able to eat better. Of course, soft foods go down the easiest. Her last blood tests showed her counts are now coming back up. After so many set backs and complications, we are so thankful for her now being on the "Up Swing".
Mama has been able to get out of the house several times and experience some low keyed fun. Thursday, Daddy took her for a drive and went out to visit Grandma (Daddy's mom) in Onalaska. They had a good visit. On Friday, Mama's niece Dayla came and took care of her. Dayla made Mama's day by taking her down to watch little Sadie's swimming lessons. Sadie was thrilled to have them there. Today, Daddy and Mama got out and did a little shopping. She came back home real tired and took a nap to recharge her batteries. This evening, Troy, Maria, Sadie & Nate, my son Carson and myself were up at Mama & Daddy's visiting and looking at old family photos. As always, Sadie and Nate kept us entertained with all their cute little things they say and do. We had a nice time together. It's been so difficult watching Mama suffer day after day, so seeing her so happy today was a salve to my heart. Thank you Lord.
Tomorrow (Sunday) will be her last day of freedom, before her appointments in Seattle begin on Monday. Monday, Mama will have a PET scan. Tuesday, she will have a MRI and then we will meet with the doctor to hear the results of the scans and find out what's next. (Surgery or Radiation?) Please pray for wisdom for the doctors and for good test results. We covet your prayers.
With love,
Carmen
Mama has been able to get out of the house several times and experience some low keyed fun. Thursday, Daddy took her for a drive and went out to visit Grandma (Daddy's mom) in Onalaska. They had a good visit. On Friday, Mama's niece Dayla came and took care of her. Dayla made Mama's day by taking her down to watch little Sadie's swimming lessons. Sadie was thrilled to have them there. Today, Daddy and Mama got out and did a little shopping. She came back home real tired and took a nap to recharge her batteries. This evening, Troy, Maria, Sadie & Nate, my son Carson and myself were up at Mama & Daddy's visiting and looking at old family photos. As always, Sadie and Nate kept us entertained with all their cute little things they say and do. We had a nice time together. It's been so difficult watching Mama suffer day after day, so seeing her so happy today was a salve to my heart. Thank you Lord.
Tomorrow (Sunday) will be her last day of freedom, before her appointments in Seattle begin on Monday. Monday, Mama will have a PET scan. Tuesday, she will have a MRI and then we will meet with the doctor to hear the results of the scans and find out what's next. (Surgery or Radiation?) Please pray for wisdom for the doctors and for good test results. We covet your prayers.
With love,
Carmen
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Home at last.
Mom received her last infusion of platelets this morning.
They did another blood test and her platelet count had come up enough for her to be released.
They left the hospital a little before noon.
When they got home they got a call from Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.
They wanted to remind her that she had an appointment on Monday and Tuesday in Seattle. Then they told her that she was scheduled for surgery on Wednesday.
Huh?
Mom told them that we had been told that Tuesday was the day we were finding out what Dr. Conrad wanted to do next. She told the nurse that she had just been dismissed and that she was really hoping to get her strength back before going into surgery. She was told that they would keep the surgery schedule "as is", and let Dr. Conrad decide if Mom was strong enough for surgery on Wednesday.
So, we are not sure, but Mom may have surgery next Wednesday and be back in the hospital for a while. This is a "good news, bad news" situation.
On one hand, she wants the tumor out. On another, it was just a bit shocking to learn about it that way and not from the Dr. as well as so soon after getting out. But, we will just view this as God's plan and that he will work out all the details as they should be.
We are grateful Mom is home and will be seeing an Oncologist in Centralia in the afternoon tomorrow. She needs to see them and establish care with them for the future radiation treatment she will get in Lacey.
She is tired, but happy to be home.
She is thankful to you all for your faithful prayer and support.
I will update you tomorrow, but tonight I am just glad she gets to sleep in her own bed.
Thank you all,
Kimberly
They did another blood test and her platelet count had come up enough for her to be released.
They left the hospital a little before noon.
When they got home they got a call from Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.
They wanted to remind her that she had an appointment on Monday and Tuesday in Seattle. Then they told her that she was scheduled for surgery on Wednesday.
Huh?
Mom told them that we had been told that Tuesday was the day we were finding out what Dr. Conrad wanted to do next. She told the nurse that she had just been dismissed and that she was really hoping to get her strength back before going into surgery. She was told that they would keep the surgery schedule "as is", and let Dr. Conrad decide if Mom was strong enough for surgery on Wednesday.
So, we are not sure, but Mom may have surgery next Wednesday and be back in the hospital for a while. This is a "good news, bad news" situation.
On one hand, she wants the tumor out. On another, it was just a bit shocking to learn about it that way and not from the Dr. as well as so soon after getting out. But, we will just view this as God's plan and that he will work out all the details as they should be.
We are grateful Mom is home and will be seeing an Oncologist in Centralia in the afternoon tomorrow. She needs to see them and establish care with them for the future radiation treatment she will get in Lacey.
She is tired, but happy to be home.
She is thankful to you all for your faithful prayer and support.
I will update you tomorrow, but tonight I am just glad she gets to sleep in her own bed.
Thank you all,
Kimberly
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Answered prayer.
Thank you to everyone who prayed for Mom.
Dad called about 1:45 to tell me that they had come in to try one more time to get a blood sample from Mom's port. They had put in something called TPA that is supposed to dissolve any blood clots in the one side that had not been working since last Friday and.............. it worked!!!` Next, just for grins they decided to try the second side of the port and IT WORKED ALSO!!! They had done nothing to the other side at all and yet it gave blood just as smoothly as the other side with the meds.
Thank you everyone for the words of encouragement and the prayers today.
Prayer can change things!!!
God is so good!!!
Mom is doing better tonight and has finished her potassium and all other infusions.
Her mouth is still sore but tonight she is talking better,and that means that the sores are starting to get better! She thinks she may even be released tomorrow.
Woo Hoo
Thank you again for all your prayer and love of Mom and Dad.
Your prayers on their behalf have been a blessing and has proved to change her circumstance.
With gratitude,
Kimberly and family
Dad called about 1:45 to tell me that they had come in to try one more time to get a blood sample from Mom's port. They had put in something called TPA that is supposed to dissolve any blood clots in the one side that had not been working since last Friday and.............. it worked!!!` Next, just for grins they decided to try the second side of the port and IT WORKED ALSO!!! They had done nothing to the other side at all and yet it gave blood just as smoothly as the other side with the meds.
Thank you everyone for the words of encouragement and the prayers today.
Prayer can change things!!!
God is so good!!!
Mom is doing better tonight and has finished her potassium and all other infusions.
Her mouth is still sore but tonight she is talking better,and that means that the sores are starting to get better! She thinks she may even be released tomorrow.
Woo Hoo
Thank you again for all your prayer and love of Mom and Dad.
Your prayers on their behalf have been a blessing and has proved to change her circumstance.
With gratitude,
Kimberly and family
AAARRRRGGGGHHH!
This is a frusterating email to write.
I want to share a new need, but have been struggling, with my family, to not drop into a full press depression.
Mom got to UW about 3:30. I didn't get there until after 7:00 last night.
When I arrived she was still not hooked up to anything,and the nurse was comng in about 8:00 to take blood from her port. Enter the problem. They were unable to get blood from the port. Now she had to either have a blood draw from a vein, or wait to have the charge nurse come in and de-access the one side, and then re-access both sides again and try to get one of them to work. Since she is such a tough poke, they opted for the latter. The one clogged port was able to receive i.v. meds, but not give any blood. Her nurse had not accessed a double port before and wanted the charge nurse to do it. The charge nurse had a meeting to go to so she ddn't get back to access until after 10:00PM. Mom had requested some lydocaine creme to numb the skin first. Her skin was bright red and raw. The hospital nurses at both Providence and UW had removed and replaced the coverings and tape over the port multiple times and her skin was tender, bright red and swollen. The creme burned and when they cleansed it to start the procedure, it burned like straight alchohol.
Now, usually I stay wth Mom and hand hold during these procedures, and I did. But last night she felt pain when each side was accessed. A lot of pain. I was not much support. I cried my head off watching her go through this one more time. It was finally done about 10:35 and they were able to draw blood through one side to start the blood type and cross. She was exhausted as was Daddy.They had been up since 2:30 AM on Monday morning and she just wanted to sleep for a little bit. She had taken some oxycodone about 9:45 so it may have helped her sleep for a bit.I left them about 11:00 after we got Dad's bed made, so unfortunately they got to bed really late.
I talked with Dad about 9:00 this morning. Neither port site will give blood this morning. Hence the AAARRRRGGGGHHH! Now what? the Dr.'s are in the hall talking and will discuss the options to address this.
She got one unit of blood through the night. She will get another today, platelets, and potassium. She is very weak and in constant discomfort. PLEASE pray for a repreive for her. God is still in control. He is still watching over her. I remind myself of that day and night, but honestly that doesn't mean we don't get discouraged.
I know the Dr.'s will do what they can to resolve this situation with the port, but I felt so discouraged this morning. Then I was reading in Psalms and I read:
Psalm 118:8 "It is better to trust in the Lord, than to put confidence in man."
This morning I was asking what were the Dr.'s planning? What did they think will resolve this? What are they going to do? Relying on other people and the Dr.'s is part of living, and being in the hospital. That's why we go, but my ultimate trust must remain in His hands. I have to keep my eyes lifted up. God is sovereign. He will decide what is best and when.
I will ask you though, to keep us in your prayers as well.
It's easy to let things discourage. I am praying that today will be a new day of positve results and a clear direction.
We as a family thank you for all your prayers and encouragement.
This blog is a special blessing to us.
With love,
Kimberly and family
I want to share a new need, but have been struggling, with my family, to not drop into a full press depression.
Mom got to UW about 3:30. I didn't get there until after 7:00 last night.
When I arrived she was still not hooked up to anything,and the nurse was comng in about 8:00 to take blood from her port. Enter the problem. They were unable to get blood from the port. Now she had to either have a blood draw from a vein, or wait to have the charge nurse come in and de-access the one side, and then re-access both sides again and try to get one of them to work. Since she is such a tough poke, they opted for the latter. The one clogged port was able to receive i.v. meds, but not give any blood. Her nurse had not accessed a double port before and wanted the charge nurse to do it. The charge nurse had a meeting to go to so she ddn't get back to access until after 10:00PM. Mom had requested some lydocaine creme to numb the skin first. Her skin was bright red and raw. The hospital nurses at both Providence and UW had removed and replaced the coverings and tape over the port multiple times and her skin was tender, bright red and swollen. The creme burned and when they cleansed it to start the procedure, it burned like straight alchohol.
Now, usually I stay wth Mom and hand hold during these procedures, and I did. But last night she felt pain when each side was accessed. A lot of pain. I was not much support. I cried my head off watching her go through this one more time. It was finally done about 10:35 and they were able to draw blood through one side to start the blood type and cross. She was exhausted as was Daddy.They had been up since 2:30 AM on Monday morning and she just wanted to sleep for a little bit. She had taken some oxycodone about 9:45 so it may have helped her sleep for a bit.I left them about 11:00 after we got Dad's bed made, so unfortunately they got to bed really late.
I talked with Dad about 9:00 this morning. Neither port site will give blood this morning. Hence the AAARRRRGGGGHHH! Now what? the Dr.'s are in the hall talking and will discuss the options to address this.
She got one unit of blood through the night. She will get another today, platelets, and potassium. She is very weak and in constant discomfort. PLEASE pray for a repreive for her. God is still in control. He is still watching over her. I remind myself of that day and night, but honestly that doesn't mean we don't get discouraged.
I know the Dr.'s will do what they can to resolve this situation with the port, but I felt so discouraged this morning. Then I was reading in Psalms and I read:
Psalm 118:8 "It is better to trust in the Lord, than to put confidence in man."
This morning I was asking what were the Dr.'s planning? What did they think will resolve this? What are they going to do? Relying on other people and the Dr.'s is part of living, and being in the hospital. That's why we go, but my ultimate trust must remain in His hands. I have to keep my eyes lifted up. God is sovereign. He will decide what is best and when.
I will ask you though, to keep us in your prayers as well.
It's easy to let things discourage. I am praying that today will be a new day of positve results and a clear direction.
We as a family thank you for all your prayers and encouragement.
This blog is a special blessing to us.
With love,
Kimberly and family
Monday, August 4, 2008
Back to UWMC
Dad called this morning to tell me they were at the ER in Centralia Providence hospital. Dad had taken Mom in the middle of the night. At that point they were giving her hydration and had taken a blood sample.
Dad called back around 11:00 AM to tell me that Mom's red, white and platelet counts were dangerously low and that they were discharging her from Centralia, so Dad could take her to be admitted at UWMC. She will need at least two additional blood transfusions and platelets.
Dad ran home to pack them a bag and then they will head up North.
They are very concerned with her counts so low and she is at huge risk of infection etc. right now.
Please pray for her protection from sickness, and that the new blood and platelets will turn things around quickly for her. They dread going up there again, but are doing what they have to, and most importantly, what is in the best interest of Mom right now. This is not great, but it is one more step she is taking with one more day and another giant down. She can beat this one too. She is brave and strong.
Please keep praying diligently.
We are grateful to each one of you.
With love and gratitude,
Kimberly and family
Dad called back around 11:00 AM to tell me that Mom's red, white and platelet counts were dangerously low and that they were discharging her from Centralia, so Dad could take her to be admitted at UWMC. She will need at least two additional blood transfusions and platelets.
Dad ran home to pack them a bag and then they will head up North.
They are very concerned with her counts so low and she is at huge risk of infection etc. right now.
Please pray for her protection from sickness, and that the new blood and platelets will turn things around quickly for her. They dread going up there again, but are doing what they have to, and most importantly, what is in the best interest of Mom right now. This is not great, but it is one more step she is taking with one more day and another giant down. She can beat this one too. She is brave and strong.
Please keep praying diligently.
We are grateful to each one of you.
With love and gratitude,
Kimberly and family
Sunday, August 3, 2008
The struggle goes on...
Hi everyone.
Mom is still really struggling with these horrible mouth and throat sores.
It is even too painful to speak as her teeth scape her mouth and cause more pain.
This is emotionally taxing when it drags on day after day.
Her specific request for prayer at this point is that she turn the corner with these symptoms and not have to return to the hospital and be admitted as she has in the past. Her last visit for the mucusitis bought her a week at UWMC. She desperately wants to remain at home.
Please pray for her specifically in this area.
We are all so grateful to have this way to request prayer for Mom and Dad.
Thank you for your continuous and tireless prayer.
Kimberly and family
Mom is still really struggling with these horrible mouth and throat sores.
It is even too painful to speak as her teeth scape her mouth and cause more pain.
This is emotionally taxing when it drags on day after day.
Her specific request for prayer at this point is that she turn the corner with these symptoms and not have to return to the hospital and be admitted as she has in the past. Her last visit for the mucusitis bought her a week at UWMC. She desperately wants to remain at home.
Please pray for her specifically in this area.
We are all so grateful to have this way to request prayer for Mom and Dad.
Thank you for your continuous and tireless prayer.
Kimberly and family
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Home again home again jiggity jig.
OK, so Mom got home this afternoon after getting i.v. hydration and pain killers. Dad had stopped and gotten her some egg flower soup to see if she could eat any of it. She was able to get some down as well as a little propel flavored water. She's keeping her chin up and they are happy to have one more day of treatment and symptoms behind her. She is not pain free by any means, and even swallowing pain killers is a challenge when you can't swallow your own spit.(sorry Mom if that is too crude)
I hope she is able to sleep tonight and that they can both get some rest.
Thank you for praying for her.
I will update tomorrow after I have another report.
Blessings,
Kimberly
I hope she is able to sleep tonight and that they can both get some rest.
Thank you for praying for her.
I will update tomorrow after I have another report.
Blessings,
Kimberly
A bump in the road
Hi everyone,
I just wanted to update you on Mom for the last two days.
Yesterday they headed up to Seattle for her blood transfusions.
They got caught in some horrible 1-5 traffic and were late in getting to their appointment. This pushed everything back. They accessed the port to do the preliminary blood check and discovered that one side of the port is blocked with what they believe is a blood clot. The good news is that they can still access the other port side for now. They were still able to give the blood through the one port side. They got started at 3:00 instead of 1:00 so it was sometime after 9:00PM when they returned home. They had an exhausting day yesterday.
This morning I heard from Dad and they are back in the ER at Providence hospital in Centralia. Mom can not swallow again as the mouth sores from the chemo have really flared up. Dad called up to Seattle and they told him to take her to Providence.
She is waiting now to see a Dr. so I don't have anything else to tell you until that is done. Hopefully she will get some earlier help and the sores will resolve themselves faster with good hydration and medical care.
We would ask you to pray for her in this latest bump in the road. Please pray for rest for them both and a quick healing.
The port issue will remain unaddressed until we know for sure if she will continue to need it.
We thank you for your prayer and support of Mom and Dad.
Love,
Kimberly
I just wanted to update you on Mom for the last two days.
Yesterday they headed up to Seattle for her blood transfusions.
They got caught in some horrible 1-5 traffic and were late in getting to their appointment. This pushed everything back. They accessed the port to do the preliminary blood check and discovered that one side of the port is blocked with what they believe is a blood clot. The good news is that they can still access the other port side for now. They were still able to give the blood through the one port side. They got started at 3:00 instead of 1:00 so it was sometime after 9:00PM when they returned home. They had an exhausting day yesterday.
This morning I heard from Dad and they are back in the ER at Providence hospital in Centralia. Mom can not swallow again as the mouth sores from the chemo have really flared up. Dad called up to Seattle and they told him to take her to Providence.
She is waiting now to see a Dr. so I don't have anything else to tell you until that is done. Hopefully she will get some earlier help and the sores will resolve themselves faster with good hydration and medical care.
We would ask you to pray for her in this latest bump in the road. Please pray for rest for them both and a quick healing.
The port issue will remain unaddressed until we know for sure if she will continue to need it.
We thank you for your prayer and support of Mom and Dad.
Love,
Kimberly
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