Ladeva Dahlin

An unexpected report.....

2011-11-30T14:09:00.000-08:00

John 14:27 "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."

Mom and Dad had felt confident about receiveing a good report yesterday from the cancer doctor. Mom is feeling good, and had no reason to think that there was anything amiss.

The Doctor's report showed that both lungs had tumors on them, 20 in all. There were two treatment options. 1) Medications could be administered that had the potential of extending her life, but the side-effects would be significant sickness. 2) No medication. This would allow Mom to feel good for a while without the side-effects of the medication. The Doctor stated that in their medical opinion, Mom was told that she could expect about a year to live.

After the initial shock of this news, Mom and Dad have made some decisions about how they will move forward from this moment.

1) God is still on the throne. Only God knows how many days each of us has left. He is in control and His will is perfect.

2) No matter how many days remain, live each one as the precious gift that it is! Love intensely, laugh often, Live for the Glory of God.

3) Give thanks for the blessings of family and friends. Spend quality time with them and make memories.

4) Enjoy all that life has to offer without dwelling on the struggles that come their way.

5) Speak boldly of the Eternal Life offered through Jesus Christ to those whom do not know Him as Savior.

To each of you who have been reading the blog over the past few years, we thank you for your outpouring of love and support. The Bible says that "You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ". Mom and Dad will endure and will continue to fight the fight, not with a spirit of fear, but of strength and power, and sound mind. Your continued support will be cherished and a source of strength.

This story is not over. All of these things have happened so that the Glory of God may be revealed.

All our love,

Troy & Family

A post from Mom 11/22/11

2011-11-22T05:57:00.000-08:00

I've been wanting to write something and let you know that all is going
well with me. I have been feeling good and enjoying doing normal things again.
I have been on several mini trips in the last couple months. I got to go to
Donna's with Edna and her daughter,my neice, Dayla. It was good to see Donna up and doing things, and see her hair coming in again!

Warren and I have made it to
Ocean Shores, and just recently went to Depoe Bay for a couple days. Our class
is planning a 50th reunion this summer. Karen Johnson and Nancy Suyat, Shirley
Beaber, Liz Powell, and Sandy Macomber came and we had our first planning
meeting here. It was fun to get together with them.In 2013, Warren and
I will celebrate our 50th anniversary! We are looking ahead, and planning a
trip to go to Hawaii to celebrate. Fifty years has sure gone by fast! It makes
you realize how short our lives really are, and how important it is to live it
well. It makes me think of one of my favorite Bible verses which says: " The
only thing that matters is expressing your faith through love." Gal.
5:6

I go back to Seattle on Monday, the 28th, for more testing, and we
will stay in Seattle as I have to see the Oncologist first thing on Tuesday.
I'm hoping and praying for a good report. I feel like it will be a positive
check up. I am so glad that I have a personal relationship with my God. I
don't know how anyone faces what I have been through without him. That is the
difference between religion, which is something you do over and over like taking
a shower, brushing your teeth religiously. Christianity is a personal relationship with Jesus through His spirit living inside of you, comforting, strengthening, and teaching you. I am not looking forward to this check up, but I'm not afraid to go.We will have some of our kids for Thanksgiving. Our children and grands come every other year for Thanksgiving to keep it even with the other side of their family. Brian's mom and Dad will be gone this year, so we get to have Kim and Brian, Brittain and Paris. Also Warren's mom, brother, Gary sister, Sherry, and her special guy Tom will be here. We always look forward to our family days. I
want to wish you all a most wonderful Thanksgiving. We are thankful that you
are a part of our lives. Love Ladeva

"Finding Victory ...."

2011-10-14T18:06:00.000-07:00

Friday October 14, 2011

Today is day 4 of mom being off all her anti nausea/ pain meds!! She is finding victory and we are so happy to update the blog with some great news thanks to your faithful prayers for Mom's healing.

A week ago today Mom, Maria and I headed south to the Rose Garden in Portland to attend "Women of Faith" It was attended by 7,000 women and was a tremendous weekend.

"Women of Faith" is a weekend of motivational Christian speakers, music, and fun.

We borrowed a wheelchair so that mom would not have to expend any more energy than to just soak in the message for that weekend.

Mom had a great evening on Friday and slept well. We were blessed to be in a place where we could give her meds with the hot food she had come to rely on. We got to the Rose Garden and our concerns about hot food disappeared with the realization that the Garden was "Open for business" :) Every food vendor was in full swing and we did not have to leave to get warm drinks and food for her meds.

Late morning when one of the sessions started a worship team came on stage to lead some singing. There is a cd I got mom about a year ago by musician Kari Jobe. I bought the cd for a song called "Healer". It talks about how God knows our every moment and sees every hurt, pain and trial. It talks about how God walks with you through every struggle and that He is the one who heals. As Mom was sitting in her chair listening to the words she was feeling moved by the words and was taking them in as if they were her prayer to Him. The words say that "Nothing is impossible for You, You hold my world in your hands". She really felt God's presence and we decided that we were just going to claim those words as her own.

She continued to feel good all weekend and never once got sick, nauseated or exhausted.

The next few days she stayed on her routine with meds but by Tuesday she realized she had been feeling so great since Saturday that she questioned if she really even needed the medication at all.

She took her meds for the last time Tuesday night before bed and for the first time in months slept through the night without waking up and taking medication!

She woke Wednesday so thankful and grateful. She has not taken another pill since that night. God has certainly healed her from nausea and pain. She has had a great week. She has painted a bit, taken her sister in law to Yelm to see her brother and sister in law and is feeling great. She continues to get stronger daily. Today we went to lunch with Judy Panco and have had such a sweet day. I came to help out with some little projects but spent most of the time fussing at her to sit down and rest.

She looks so good. Her eyes are sparkling again and she is smiling. Thank you for your persistent prayers. Prayer does change circumstances, God still heals and we are thankful to you all for your faithfulness in praying for her all these months.

Will try to update you perhaps after her oncology visit in another 3-6 weeks. Feel free to call her.

We appreciate you all so very much. The prayer, calls, cards and encouragement have been a sweet gift.

With a joyful and thankful heart,

Kimberly and family

A good report. Friday Sept 23, 2011

2011-09-23T17:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday mom saw her renal surgeon at UWMC.

He was really pleased with her progress and is happy with how her wound is healing.

He has released her completely from his care and says that the numbers show her other kidney is functioning very well.

She will see her oncologist in 4-6 weeks so no other Dr.'s appointments in the near future.

She is feeling a little better and afternoons are still her best time of day.

She is so thankful she is not battling constant nausea and is grateful for all your prayers and love. She has received so many cards, letters and calls and she and dad appreciate each and every one of you.

We will try to update you every few days to keep you posted on mom's progress.

Much love from Kimberly and family.

A Lovely Day!

2011-09-21T22:23:00.000-07:00

I finally have some good news to report. :)

The last two days have been some of the best mom has had and I am really happy to get to share with you her progress.

Monday morning I got a call from Assured Home Health Care. They were sending out a nurse to evaluate mom and try to assist with the constant nausea.

Mom's friend Cindy Cummings was here when Rhonda the nurse arrived. We are so grateful that mom had Cindy there also as she is an RN as well and the two ladies were able to talk about mom's case and really discuss things in depth.

Rhonda suggested that mom change up her meds again. As you may remember, she has been pretty reliant on Zofran,( an anti nausea med) as she has so many allergies to any other anti nausea med. She had tried Fenergan ( sp?) but felt it was too strong even at half a dose and that some of the side effects were making things worse for her. She also was noticing a pattern that whenever she took the zofran she was feeling worse. We weren't sure what was going on with the meds but she would swallow the pills and minutes later was either sick or heaving.

Rhonda recommended mom not take half the dose, but a full dose, even though she was having some disconcerting side effects and try it with some warm food and not swallowing liquid. Mom was exhausted on Monday as she had been up all night long and we could not get her comfortable or able to sleep for more than a few minutes at a time. Mom took the new med as she advised with hot pudding and Monday night she slept longer than she has in weeks and weeks.

The best news though is that she did NOT wake up with nausea!!! That is an amazing thing as she has been nauseous for so long it didn't seem possible.

She didn't sleep as well on Tuesday night, but not too badly and woke again this morning with NO nausea!!!

Her sister Edna came and stayed with her for a while and then Dad asked her if she wanted to go for a drive. She hasn't left the house except to go to UWMC hospital. They drove to Skipper's, got some fish and clam chowder, drove to a park and had some lunch. They took a short stroll and then went home for mom to take a good nap. She was tired, but had done something "normal" that we all take for granted and it was so good for mom and dad both. While she didn't eat much and brought her chowder home for dinner, she did go on a date with her boyfriend. ( yes, I mean my dad!!!) They had a lovely day.

Tonight I have been praying for another good night's sleep. I am praying that she wakes up refreshed, nausea free and that she has turned the bend and is heading for healing. :)

Thank you to all of you who are so faithful to lift her and dad up in prayer.

Look at what God has done.

From a weekend of great discouragement to some days of tender mercies.

I have been thanking Him over and over for the change in the last 48 hours.

Thank you too for all your prayers.

It is true prayer can certainly change things.

Thank you for being faithful in all your prayers for mom.

She goes back to Seattle tomorrow for another post op appt. Please pray for her stamina and anxiety tomorrow. She really gets anxious having to make that long, uncomfortable trip.

We will continue to pray that the nausea has been eliminated for good and thank you for your part in that with your faithful prayer.

With a happy heart,

Kimberly and family

Sunday Sept 18,2011

2011-09-18T15:44:00.000-07:00

There are times in all of our lives when we grow weary.

We get discouraged, feel defeated, and just plain feel sad and tired.

This has been a long road for mom and dad. The journey has been painful and seemingly at times unrelenting. It wears on the soul and causes discouragement that at times can seem overwhelming.

Saturday and Sunday morning have been like that. On Saturday mom woke looking forward to an afternoon at the Toledo park with family. She felt so sick she didn't know if she could even get in the car. By noon she was starting to feel some better and forced herself to go. She was able to stay for 3 hours and enjoyed being with family. She came home exhausted and spent. She didn't sleep well and today started the same way, sick, discouraged and so very sick of being sick. Dad has his own struggle. He wants to make her comfortable yet there is nothing he can do to alleviate her pain, nausea and exhaustion. He works tirelessly at keeping the meds straight, on schedule and food and fluids coming. They are both working so hard at every possible combination of food, meds, rest, fluids etc trying to find the winning combination. So far, they haven't found it. Mornings are always hard, and IF it's a good day, she won't start to feel better until afternoon.

It's a struggle every day. Some days they are fighting and winning. Some days they are fighting and feel like they are loosing ground. People ask me every single day " What can I do?" I ask this questions myself knowing full well that there is truly only one answer that could change their circumstance.

Prayer.

We ask that you continue to intercede on Mom's behalf in prayer.

Prayer can change circumstances.

I have to admit that we get discouraged, but then I remember who is in control of our lives. It is not us, the Dr.'s, or random happenstance. He will not leave us to walk through life's troubles alone. I am so grateful He is our strength and comfort.

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10

With much love and a grateful heart for all of you,

Kimberly and family

Saturday Sept 17, 2011

2011-09-17T11:19:00.000-07:00

We don't have much to add but I know that many of you are faithful to check the blog daily and get updates.

Thursday mom went to her primary care provider for a follow up appt.

Her regular Dr. is out on maternity leave so she saw a new Dr. It's always a little daunting when the Dr. does not know your medical history, but mom and dad felt like he spent a lot of time with them and really cared about her condition and meds. They were hoping to see if he could suggest any additional anti nausea meds or write a script for Requip. ( a Restless Leg Syndrome med she tried once in the hospital)

The verdict was that there is no other meds for nausea that she can take so he suggested ativan and zofran together again. He also felt like given the huge surgeries she has had and the meds she is on that Requip could potentially cause more harm than good so it's a no go.

She continues to battle constant nausea and dry heaves. It's exhausting and discouraging. the mornings are always the worst. If it's a good day she starts to feel better in the afternoon. This isn't everyday so please continue to pray for God's healing in this area especially.

Mom and dad are going to Toledo park today for mom's family get together. She won't be able to stay long but I pray she can see some family and hug some necks for a bit. It will be exhausting so I am sure she will be napping this afternoon.

She got to see her sister Donna yesterday who is also battling cancer. Donna has been through so much treatment including chemotherapy, and is going in soon for a mastectomy. She will continue chemo after for the bone cancer so we continue to lift her up in prayer as well and would ask you to do the same.

We are thankful to each and everyone of you.

Blessings on your day.

Kimberly and family

Monday 9/12/11 Weekend Update

2011-09-12T08:18:00.001-07:00

It was a rough weekend with meds, nausea and dry heaves.

It's not clear to us if the new med is working or not.

Mom had a really rough Saturday full of discouragement and sickness.

It was an excruciatingly long day.

Sunday started out rough but did get a little better as the day wore on. It was a monumental struggle getting in the 1000 calories. Brian and the kids came down to see her and got caught up with Papa and grandma. We all went down to the swing and sat outside for about an hour taking in the fresh air and their gorgeous view.

Later Ken and Linda Riveness came by as did Steve and Carmen.

Steve and Carmen brought some rocky road ice crream and mom was able to get a bit down adding to her calorie count.

Ken left his recipe for Sweedish pancakes as they are high in calories and this morning mom ate 2 small ones. Woot woot!!!

She had dry heaves again and is very sore and exhausted afetrwards. We are praying for a better day. She gets tired easily and needs to nap throughout the day. I know this is what will help those 1000 calories be redirected into healing her body. It's not great for her to go long periods without "taking 5" as she calls it. I am trying not to be a "food pusher" and a "nap pusher" but it's hard to not get overly protective while she is recuperating.

We love and appreciate you all so much for your constant vigil over mom and dad. Your prayers and words of encouragement give them strength for each day.

Please pray for dad as well. His love of mom is unending and tireless. He loves on her so well.

Troy, Maria and kids came Saturday night and Troy took him to Home Depot and coffee while Maria and the kids sat and cared for mom.

Thank you Troy for getting him out for a bit. It helps to recharge his batteries and get a change of scenery, talk and share. You are awesome and I love you so.

Please keep the prayer coming. We know it is what is sustaining her and fights off the discouragement. You are all such an important part of her healing and recovery and we love you for it.

With much love and appreciation,

Kimberly and family.

Friday, Sept.9th

2011-09-09T20:27:00.000-07:00

This week, the struggle to eat and hold food down has continued to be Mama’s biggest battle. She works daily at her goal of getting 1,000 calories down. Daddy has been trying all different combinations of soft high calorie foods and shakes to help her reach her goal. The dry heaves continue each day which keeps Mama’s abdomen really sore.

On a positive note, Mama is getting stronger. She no longer is using a walker. Her fluid retention in her legs has gone down now that she no longer is on IV fluids. Therefore her legs are no longer so tender and miserable. The majority of her food is staying down. She is enjoying being in the comfort of her own home and is getting some good rest and sleep at night.

We went to her follow appointment with Dr. Pillarisetty today at Seattle Cancer Care. He was encouraged by her progress. Of course, the problem of nausea was the main topic discussed to find some kind of solution. He gave some additional suggestions for her to try. He also agreed that the anti-nausea medication Mama has been taking for the last couple of months is no longer proving to be effective. Mama has decided to go back and try another anti-nausea medication that caused some unpleasant side effects during her chemo treatments. Maybe this time around it may not have the same effects or at the very least, the side effects may be worth not being so sick and getting to eat and drink easier.

Thank you for continuing to keep Mama in your prayers. Please continue to lift Daddy up in prayer also. Taking care of Mama and watching her be sick day in and day out and being so helpless at times is so difficult. He has been a rock for her to lean on. Pray that he will have strength and peace for each new day so that he will remain that strong rock and will not grow weary.

Thank you also for your encouragement in so many ways. We appreciate you so much.

With love,

Carmen & family

Saturday, Sept. 3rd

2011-09-03T15:44:00.000-07:00

Thursday was a rougher day for Mama holding food down and feeling sick. She was really concerned that Friday's appointment back with Dr. Gore could possibly put her back into the hospital. Fortunately, that was not the case. At her appointment, they removed her PIC line and staples. Her infection is looking better. There is still a little redness, but it is improving. The trip to Seattle was tasking on her physically and emotionally. Her next appointment is next Friday the 9th.

She continues to struggle with an upset stomach and nausea, but she is determined to keep slowly chipping away at eating at least 1000 calories a day and drinking fluids. A 1000 calories just doesn't sound like a major task, but in her case, it is all she can do to get it down and hold it there.

Mama and Daddy are enjoying being back in the comfort of their home and they are both getting much more rest now. The weather has been so beautiful and the soft warm breeze coming through the windows is a nice blessing.

We are praying that the eating and drinking gets easier and easier and the nausea goes away soon. If you think about it on Thursday and Friday, please keep Mama in prayer regarding her follow up visit with Dr. Pillarisetty. We just don't want her to have any anxiety preparing to go to Seattle again as well as the day of the appointment. Sometimes just walking into those buildings brings a rush of memories that can be overwhelming for her at times.

We appreciate your continued prayers and encouragement more than you know.

With love,

Carmen & family

Wed., August 31st - Finally Home

2011-08-31T15:29:00.000-07:00

Yesterday's discharge got delayed to the evening. Mama didn't get her discharge until just before 8pm. The final decision to come home without the TPN was made by Mama and Daddy. It wasn't an easy decision to make. While the IV nutrition was helping to give her the needed nutrition, it also was creating other difficulties. The TPN kept her getting up throughout the night because of all the added fluids, which robbed her of sleep and she was exhausted. It also suppressed her diet because she was feeling full so she didn't feel she had much room to eat. The hospital foods were less than desirable so that also became a challenge. Mama felt if she could get home without the TPN, she would be able to get rest and eat better. At home she would be able to sleep all night without the interruptions of getting up all night long as well as hospital staff waking her up to do vitals. As far as eating goes, she was looking forward to eating things she enjoys and more of a variety.

We got her home by about 9:30pm last night. By the time we got her clothes changed and settled into bed, she was "all in but her shoestrings". :) She was so relieved to get into her own bed where she is finally comfortable.

This morning and afternoon, she is doing pretty well eating and drinking. The 1,000 calorie goal is still an effort, but she is really working at getting it in by the end of the day. She is on track and should make it. So far, she is doing well at keeping everything down and not throwing up. This whole food and fluids things is a real big hurdle to get over so she doesn't have to be readmitting into the hospital, so we would appreciate your prayers regarding this especially.

Our friend Cindi (who is a nurse) came over and helped Dad sort through the medications and get them on a schedule. That was a task and somewhat overwhelming. Thank you so much Cindi. You are a blessing.

Mama has had several visitors today. She enjoyed getting to visit and was feeling so blessed. She had been up since this morning and it doesn't take much to wipe her out these days, so she is back in bed to get some more sleep and recharge her batteries. Daddy is taking this quiet time to also sneak in a nap himself.

It is so good to be home again. Thank you for your encouragement and prayers. The Bible says we are to bear one another's burdens and then in Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 says, "Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up." Thank you for coming up beside Mama and our family. For bearing our burdens and lifting us up when we most need it. Your words of encouragement and your answered prayers have picked us up over and over. Thank you.

With love,

Carmen & family

Tuesday, August 30th - Going home

2011-08-30T15:08:00.000-07:00

Things change so quickly here. Sometime today Mama is supposed to be discharged. There has been much controversy with how Mama is to go home. (With TPN or without) There are so many factors involved that I am not even going to try to list them. Ultimately, Mama has to make the final decision. It is not an easy decision. There are many pros and cons. We have been praying for wisdom and would appreciate your prayers as well to make the right decision. We will try to do another post later this evening. Thank you in advance.

With love,

Carmen & family

Monday, August 29th

2011-08-29T23:25:00.000-07:00

I apologize for a brief update, but I have a bad headache and am finding it hard to even look at the computer. Last night and this morning was difficult. Mama was feeling sick and throwing up. This afternoon was much better. She still doesn't feel much like eating and her stomach has had waves of nausea off and on. This morning, Mama's newest incision site was starting to show redness and they were concerned about infection so she began taking antibiotics. There was quite a bit of discouragement when I got here this morning, but God has showered us with His love throughout the day and spirits are lifted. Here are several of the blessings He gave: One of the nurses assistants came and looked in the room earlier this morning and asked Mama how she was doing. Long story short, she was literally an answer to prayer. She is a really sweet Christian lady and she came in and helped Mama and put her arms around her and prayed over her and for Daddy. This afternoon, Mama & Daddy's pastor and his family stopped by to bring her flowers, encouragement and prayed with us. This evening, Uncle Dean and Aunt Elaine came to visit, encourage and pray. Then add in several phone calls of love, encouragement and prayers. God sent just what was needed. Thank you Lord.

With love,

Carmen and family

August 28th, 2011

2011-08-28T19:53:00.000-07:00

As with many things in life, the anticipation of an event is often greater than the event itself. For Mom, knowing that today the epidural would be capped off and then removed was providing some significant anxiety. Having conditioned her response to this anxiety to be prayer, Mom quietly prayed for the Holy Spirit to manifest Himself to her in a way to make the fear subside. The answer to this request was delivered subtlety, but was heard loud and clear. Mom’s nurse for the day came in to introduce herself, check Mom’s vitals and other routine duties. Mom felt better seeing the name CHRISTine on the white board. Next came in Mom’s PCT for the day, which is a very large but gentle man named EMMANUEL (meaning “God with us”). God is forever faithful to His people to quite their fears when they call upon His name.
Mom was out of bed for 2 ½ hours this morning, went for a little walk, sat in a chair, and ate some breakfast. It seems odd to mention such things as these as accomplishments, but when you have not been able to do any of these things for 26 days, it is cause for celebration. Dad received further treatment on administering the TPN if it is needed when they finally get home. Dad was patient, steady, thorough, and ready for action if required. We hope that with the food intake that Mom is currently on, that the TPN will not be required at home. Either way, home is the immediate goal, with TPN being a much smaller variable.
The days seem a bit of a roller coaster at times, as one minute or hour Mom feels a little better, and the next worse, but for the moment (3:00 pm) she is semi-comfortable and trying to eat some more.
At present, we are sitting here listing out our favorite scriptures and promises found in God’s Word. Mom and Dad have shared numerous scriptures that renew their strength and hope daily. It has been fun, especially once you get past the commonly used scriptures for circumstances like this. If I could request one thing more from all of you who are reading this blog, please post your favorite scripture or promise from the Bible for Mom and Dad to look up together and meditate upon. With Mom feeling a bit better, the hours tend to drag even more so and this would provide them with an activity as well as it will bless them with your favorite scriptures.
Thank you for your continued prayer, postings, cards, and labors of love,
Troy & Family

A turn for the better....

2011-08-27T14:39:00.001-07:00

I just had to write earlier in the day so that you can all get an encouraging blog post for a change.

Thank you SO much for your constant prayer. God is continuing to answer our prayers, for He is and always has been so faithful.

This morning mom ate half a muffin and some cream cheese, apple juice and some hot tea. For lunch she ate half a turkey, swiss cheese, tomato and lettuce sandwich and tomato juice. She walked 300 feet with the aid of a physical therapist and walker. She is doing so well today. He pain is manageable and she is looking so much better. They are talking about removing the epidural tomorrow and beginning to discuss sending her home the first part of next week! Whew! What a day already. We are so very encouraged.

A nurse came in and trained dad on how to set and run iv nutrition for mom at home. He had about an hour training and did awesome. He is so diligent about doing everything right and being careful in each step.

We are so grateful for your love and support. The comments on the blog mean more than you know as well as all the cards and calls. We read the blog comments to her daily ( sometimes multiple times and she smiles in affirmation of all the words of encouragement.)

You are each and everyone a treasure to us all.

We are blessed beyond measure to have so many interceding on her behalf.

We thank you for all your love shown to us throughout these last 25 days days in the hospital.

With a grateful heart,

Kimberly and family.

Friday, August 26th - Evening update

2011-08-26T20:00:00.000-07:00

As Kimmy posted earlier, Mama has had a tough day of pain. The transition from IV pain meds to the oral meds didn't go smoothly. She has been very flush, hot and for part of the day has had just a slight fever. Nothing seriously high though. It took quite some time to get her pain under control. In order to get it controlled, she was given a few rounds of larger doses of meds. Unfortunately it made her so rummy that she could barely stay awake to even think what number (0 to 10) her pain was at and then tell us. Not good......but better than a pain level of 9. This evening she is doing much better. She is sleeping most of the time, but for now thats ok. The advantage to the oral meds is that they last longer and if she falls asleep with a pain pump and doesn't keep pumping it, she risks getting behind in her pain. Hopefully from here on out they can keep her pain management better controlled. Thank you for your continued prayers.

With love,

Carmen & family

Painful day.

2011-08-26T15:26:00.000-07:00

I just got off the phone with Carmen. It has been a painful day.

They transitioned mom to oral pain meds and took away the pain pump.

She is still on the epidural.

Mom has been in significant pain and having a tough day. They are going to try to give her some more pain meds but if it doesn't ease soon, Carmen will be asking for them to bring the pump back asap. Her pain level has hit 9 to 9 1/2 a few times. This makes it hard for her to get back on top of the pain.

Please pray for her pain to be relieved, comfort for her, Dad and Carmen.

Thank you,
Kimberly

One day post op

2011-08-25T19:52:00.000-07:00

It's nearly 9:00 PM.

Mom is out of ICU and on the 7th floor. She was moved about 6:00 PM.

She has a beautiful view of Mt. Rainier, the water and trees from her room.

It has been quite a day.This morning she had good pain management with her epidural. She was pretty stable but markedly tired.

They removed her arterial line from her left wrist and then the 3 lumen iv from her jugular on the right side of her neck. (seriously, it looked more like a garden hose coming out of her neck) As you can imagine, this was really nerve wracking and mom, dad and I had anxiety about it being removed with her so conscious and aware. She was nervous, jittery and shaking for a while after it came out. ( As were we) But there were no complications with either removal.

By afternoon the goal was to get her up out of bed and sitting in a chair.

The physical therapist came in to help with that. He did a strength assessment first and said she was really strong. ( Uhhhhhhhh yeah! Could have told you that!)

When they got her up to sit in the chair it was pretty painful. Her blood pressure dropped to a dangerous 58/24 for a while. The nurse was pretty busy calling Dr.'s and trying to get orders to best help her. They decided to shut off her epidural and give her some more fluids to try to boost the BP. She had been in the chair for 45 minutes.They had to get her back in bed and she was just so depleted at that point. We got her in bed and she started to rest. Her pain level started to escalate. They had turned off the epidural to assist in raising her blood pressure but now the pain was getting way ahead of her. They ask her to rate her pain on a scale of 1-10 with 10 being the worst she can handle. She was feeling worse and worse and her nurse had stepped off the floor. The other nurses weren't sure what to do about the epidural and were hesitant to intervene yet as her nurse had been paged and was on his way back up. She was quickly at a 9.5 and what they call in "pain crisis" They paged the nurse again and he gave verbal orders to restart her epidural. It took a good 30 minutes for her to get it under control and relax a little . It was a super stressful hour but she has done well since then. He BP has been stable the rest of the day.

While we had been told we were going to be able to go back to 6SE, plans changed and no bed was available. It's hard to be disappointed for long though knowing that God is in control and has a plan. He is probably placing mom there as a blessing to someone new who needs her. That would only be the 1 millionth time that has happened. We ran into one of the ladies from 6SE and she was disappointed mom was not coming back and said she would "let everyone know". I expect mom will have some 6th floor visitors tomorrow.

So, specific prayer requests:

1) Pray for her tomorrow as she will be expected to sit up again. It makes us a bit nervous and mom is concerned as well. It's very important after surgery, but it is painful none the less and the BP is always a concern.

2) That she could start eating so the iv nutrition can go away. For now, she is mercifully nausea free, just on clear liquids for another 24 hours.

3) That her healing would come quickly and she will be home sooner than anyone expects.

4) For the nausea to stay away. ( As I write this she is eating chicken broth and she says it actually tastes good. Food has not been very appealing so we are thankful for this.)

Thank you again for all your prayers, love and support.

We appreciate you each and every one.

Kimberly and family.

Out of surgery!

2011-08-24T19:13:00.000-07:00

About 7:00 pm, Dr. Gore came into the waiting room to give us a post operation update. He was very pleased with the surgery stating that it was a close to perfect as it could have been. Very little blood was lost, the cavity of the previous surgery was left undisturbed, and the biggest presumed post op obstacle is pain. In an effort to keep Mom comfortable, the plan is to leave the epidural in place for the next 3 days leaving the pain abated. This will facilitate her continuing progress on returning to a "normal" diet (new normal that is).

The two surgeons have been incredible. Mentally, when I picture a surgeon that handles these types of procedures, I picture an older gentleman that has had their sense of humor removed. Much to my surprise, both have been young, upbeat, and very compassionate men that speak with confidence and humility. Though this long visit has had many valleys along the way, the care from the Doctors and Nurses has been a gift from God's hand.

Mom will be in ICU tonight, and Dad is trying to use his "Frequent Visitor" card to get Mom moved back to the 6th floor after recovery where she is doted on. We hope to be able to go in and say hello tonight, kiss her cheeks, and leave a few tears of joy on her pillow. All in all, it was the best outcome possible given the scenario.

Thank you to all of you who are watching, praying, and expecting the victory along with us. We pray God's blessing back upon you, for blessing us with yours.

Stay tuned.

Troy and family

Tuesday, August 24th - Change of plans

2011-08-24T10:29:00.000-07:00

Things have changed very quickly. Dr. Gore (Kidney surgeon) and Dr. Pillarisetty came in and let us know the CT scan showed a lot of growth in the tumor in her kidney that the ultrasound had not shown last week. The tumor has grown from the size of a golf ball to the size of a plum. Unfortunately, the tumor has grown into the main vein going from the legs up to the heart, creating a tumor clot. Surgery is required quickly, so Mama will not be going home today. Instead, she will be having surgery today about noon. This is a major surgery. It is called a Right Radical Nephrectomy, Inferior Venacava Thrombectomy. One of the greatest risks is blood loss. She will be sent to ICU after surgery for close observation and they expect her to be in the hospital at least another week. A lot is going on right now so I am not able to give much more of a report. I just wanted to get this onto the blog so the prayers can start bombarding heaven. Thank you in advance.

With love,

Carmen & Family

Tuesday, August 23rd

2011-08-23T22:20:00.000-07:00

Mama had a better day today. She made a little progress in eating. Not quite enough for them to remove the IV nutrition, but she made great strides. Her doctor, Dr. Pillarisetty, has a social worker organizing all the details for her to go home with home healthcare services for her IV. They expect to discharge her sometime tomorrow. She is so looking forward to being in her home, sleeping in her own bed and trying to eat foods she enjoys.

We had an amazing answer to prayer today. I just need to share how good our God is! The nurse told us a CT scan was ordered for Mama today and confirmed that her PIC line could be used for the contrast. This was the first time we heard about it. It had not been discussed in the early morning rounds. Shortly after finding this out, there was a nursing change. The new nurse came in with a quart of contrast for Mama to drink before the scan. To the nurse’s surprise, she found much resistance with Daddy and I. We explained that she can’t drink that much in a day, let alone in an hour. We asked her why the other nurse said it was to be done through her PIC line and now it is in a drink form. She was trying to follow orders and was trying to find a way of making it happen. She went to get a onetime extra dose of anti-nausea medication to see if it would help Mama get most of it down. Her plan was to give her an IV dose, wait 10 minutes and then have Mama start drinking. We were sick thinking about what it was going to do to her. It would be guaranteed violent vomiting. So we started praying over Mama. We asked the Lord to protect her. We asked Him to pour out wisdom and understanding on the doctors and nurses and to give them direction. If this contrast was not needed, we asked that He would keep her nurse from trying to force this contrast on her. And if it was truly needed, we asked that He would make a way for her to drink it without sickness. As soon as we got done praying, the nurse came in and was getting the IV meds ready. And in walked our answer to prayer! Dr. Pillarisetty came in for his rounds early today. We brought the contrast issue to his attention and He called off the liquid contrast. Somehow there was a mix up on the orders or how they were read. It was to be contrast through her PIC Line after all. The Lord sent him into Mama’s room just in the knick of time. We were so grateful for God’s protection and for sending the doctor on his rounds early today. All glory goes to our heavenly father.

Mama went for her CT scan this evening with no problems. The doctor had ordered the scan in preparation for her kidney procedure this next week. It is nice to have it all taken care of so she doesn’t have to make a special trip for it next week.

Thank you once again for keeping Mama in prayer. Prayers are being answered.

With love,

Carmen & family

Monday, August 22nd - Evening update

2011-08-22T22:11:00.000-07:00

Well, Radiology came up and met with Mama & I. It sounds like they will not be doing anything with Mama's kidney until next week. They said they had been contacted to see if they could do the cryo treatment. I asked about the tumor being 3.2 cm in size and whether they could treat it. They didn't see a problem with the size and confirmed it could be done. Urology still needs to come meet with Mama, but it sounds like she either has the option of surgery to remove part or all of the right kidney or they can freeze the tumor with the cryo treatment. Either way she will go under with general anesthesia. The cryo treatment would by far be a less invasive surgery though. Mama has had so many complications with her last surgery, that she is opting for the cryo treatment if it is her choice.
Dr. Pillarisetty came in this evening also. He thinks Mama could possibly go home tomorrow or Wednesday. Especially since we are able to do everything for her at home that they are doing for her here. However, because she has not been able to eat at least 1000 calories a day yet, she would have to go home with IV nutrition until she is able to daily get her calories and fluid intake up. They will be setting up a home health care service to help with that whole thing.
Daddy went home this afternoon to take care of a few things and hopefully get a good night's sleep tonight. We are so glad he finally took a little break to recharge his batteries. He will be back tomorrow.
The cards and blog notes keep coming in. I cannot tell you how much they all mean to Mama. Thank you for taking the time to let her know how much she is loved. You brought happy tears to her eyes. Thank for your continued prayers.

With love,
Carmen & family

Monday August 22, 2011

2011-08-22T06:52:00.000-07:00

Sunday was in some ways another good day. As always the nausea is persistent and ever present. Mom had not slept well if at all Saturday night due to some restless leg issues and was pretty tired on Sunday.

Some positives:

She held her food down and did not throw up.

She got a new bed which seems to help with her aching back.

She was able to sit up in a chair for quite a while.

Things to pray about:

1) Nausea

2) The kidney cannot be addressed by cryo treatment now as it is only done up to 3cm and the mass has grown to 3.2cm. The kidney surgeon (we hope) will be by today to discuss options. Please pray for this procedure whatever it will be.

Thank you for reading the blog and praying for mom and dad.

We appreciate you all.

With much love.

Kimberly and family

Sunday August 21,2011

2011-08-21T08:12:00.000-07:00

I am sorry I couldn't get an update posted last night like I wanted to but here is the latest.

Saturday was relatively speaking a better day. Mom did have dry heaves 3 different times which is always painful, but she was able to eat a bit more and drink more than she has.

As always, her biggest nemesis is still the nausea. It is unrelenting but then again, so are our prayers. So it doesn't really have a chance in the long run.

Saturday morning Dr. Pillarisetty came in and talked with mom about her drinking. ( Not her "drinking", but fluid intake. :)

Water has been tasting like metal since the surgery and she was just hating to drink it but being as determined as she is she was puching through it even being so nauseous. He suggested she try warm water in stead of the ice water the nurses bring in. So, starting yesterday dad would get water from the instant hot and add some cool water from the dispenser and viola! It was easier for her to drink and didn't taste as bad. She had some food throughout the day so it was all in all an improvement.

She went outside again and sat looking at flowers and people watching. Dad is ever vigilant and often anticipates her needs before she does.

Please keep the prayers coming. She doesn't feel good by a long shot. The nausea is exhausting and while on the iv nutrition it gets her up about every 1 to 1 1/2 hours so sleeping is always interupted.

We are so grateful to you all for your prayers and posts that encourage mom and dad so much. We read them to her multiple times a day sometimes and she nods and smiles at each comment in appreciation. They mean a lot to her and dad.

I wish I could adequately express her tremendous strength and determination.

What she is going through would have made me a blubbering mess. She is the strongest woman I have ever met. I marvel at her strength and dignity during this horrible post operative phase. She is such an amazing example of what it means to endure with a good heart and spirit.

Dad, thank you for being there with mom. She draws such strength from you and your steady strength, love, compassion and support. You are such a strong man. I adore you dad. You are my hero.

With a grateful heart.

Kimberly and family

Friday August 19, 2011 Part II

2011-08-19T22:52:00.000-07:00

Dr. Pillarisetty was in tonight to see mom and dad. He informed us that nothing new was seen on the xray and that they did not need to perform the procedure they had discussed this morning.

Her stomach is still asleep and causing food to sit and not get digested normally. This is causing the nausea and then the air in her stomach causes dry heaves.

He said the ultrasound revealed that the small growth in the tumor located in the right kidney had grown from it's previous measurement and they had discussed doing the procedure next week to inject the tumor.

This tells me they will most likely be here at least into mid week.

Mom kept a small amount of noodles down tonight and then went for a long walk with me around 6th floor. She had a lot of nausea but no vomiting as of yet. Woo Hoo!

Dr Pillarisetty STRONGLY encouraged dad to go home for at least one night and sleep in his own bed. He suggested he get outside and walk downtown. He said "Man, what do I have to do, buy you a bus ticket to get you out of here?" Dad laughed. I wanted him to hand over $5.00 for that ticket!

He suggested dad go home and pick some vegetables from the garden and bring them back for mom to try. He asked dad if he could remember what stewardess's tell you on a plane. "Put your own oxygen mask on first so that you can assist the person who needs help putting their mask on". In other words, take care of yourself so you are better able to care for mom long term. He pointed out the fact that he had help from the family and suggested that dad really consider it. I believe he will and if mom is doing well by Monday, he may go for at least one night.

Ok, specific prayer requests for the weekend:

1) Pray that her stomach wakes up and starts to work. ( This is monumental to the vomiting ceasing)

2) Pray that she keeps food down.

3) Pray that she is pain free.

4) Pray that Dad gets rest.

We love and appreciate you all.

Kimberly and family

P.S. For those of you asking, you could send cards to their house. We are getting their mail for them and bringing it up.

Friday, August 19th

2011-08-19T19:36:00.000-07:00

Mama had a rough morning and afternoon of being sick and not feeling well. It continues to be the same issues. Doctors ordered an x-ray to see if there is air/gas trapped inside. They said IF there is air trapped, then they could either put a tube down her nose or in her side to decompress the trapped air. IF a tube was to be put in, they thought it wouldn’t be until Monday. Of course, neither of those choices sounds like any fun. So far, we haven’t heard anything regarding the results of the x-ray.

She doesn’t have much of an appetite and not much success of keeping anything down, so we are disappointed her progress in eating made yesterday didn’t continue today. Later in the afternoon, Mama did feel good enough to go for a wheelchair ride outside to get some fresh air. This evening, she is doing a little better. Hopefully she is now turning a corner.

Through phone calls and prayer we have received encouragement today. We are watching for waiting for God’s hand of mercy on her body and know He is faithful. We know heaven has been bombarded by prayers on Mama’s behalf. Thank you so much for your continued prayers. We appreciate each and every one.

With love,

Carmen & family

Friday August 19,2011

2011-08-19T06:56:00.000-07:00

I have been in communication with Carmen this morning.

Please pray for them this morning and throughout the day.

More tests and possible procedures coming up. Mom is having a hard morning

I really don't have any words right now. Just crying out for some intercession on their behalf.

Thank you,

Kimberly

Thursday, August 18th

2011-08-18T23:33:00.000-07:00

This morning started out well. We met with her surgeon. Even though Mama had passed out last night, he wasn’t worried about it. He agreed with the doctors last night and felt that her already fragile and weak body just got too overheated in the warm and steamy bathroom and the blood wasn’t circulating properly. He was encouraged to hear the Mama drank an 8oz Chai Tea this morning and had kept it down. In fact, over the last couple days the food has been able to be kept down. He encouraged her to try to eat at least 1,000 calories. If he is able to do it consistently, he would feel comfortable removing the TPA (IV nutrition). That became Mama’s goal today. She did so well. I am not sure if she reached the 1,000 calories, but if not, she would have been really close.

Late afternoon and this evening, Mama has been feeling pretty bad and in quite a bit of discomfort. We have a real sweet little nurse who has taken extra measures to make her more comfortable. She added an egg-crate pad to her bed as well as ordered pain patches for her aching back and sides. Mama is exhausted and has had a lot of interruptions to her rest from vitals being taken, meds given, etc. We have asked our nurse if there’s anyway her vitals and interruptions to her sleep could be minimized so that she can get some uninterrupted sleep. She will be working with the team of doctors to see what they can do. Daddy’s nerves are shot. After all, he is her protector and there is much he can do to make her more comfortable. Please pray for Daddy. This has been so hard on him.

Mama’s nutrition will only be going in for 12 hours now. It will be wonderful to get a break for the IV pole tomorrow. She is trying to take in more fluids so that the transition to home is an easier one. We are hopeful for a better day tomorrow. However, we are thankful for the progress in Mama’s eating today. It is one step closer to feeling better.

With love and appreciation,

Carmen & family

Wednesday August 17, 2011 ( PART II )

2011-08-17T23:08:00.000-07:00

Whoa. Don't even know how to start this entry. This is Kimberly and I am going to update this just to keep you all in the loop. First let me say that as I type this, mom is fine. She is resting in bed, and dad is sitting on the holding her hand whispering sweet nothings in her ear.

Troy and I came up tonight together. When we arrived mom , dad and Carmen were outside sitting where mom could see the flowers and get fresh air.

She had to be back up to her room about 9:00 to get unhooked so she could take a shower before starting her next infusion.

Troy, dad and Carmen were visiting in the room and I took mom into the shower to help her shower. She was tired and I wanted to get in and out. The bathrooms do not have a fan and they get warm fast. As we were toweling her off her breathing was becoming labored. I started to get concerned and asked her if I should get Carmen in to help as well. She insisted she was fine and I tried to hurry. I was down on my knees putting her legs in the pant legs and asked her to hold on tight to the towel bar and not let go. I sensed that she was not doing well more than really noticed anything and started yelling for dad and Troy. I did not think I could hold her if she passed out. I stood up and held her around the waist until dad got to her. Troy came in behind her and dad. Just as dad wrapped her in his big embrace she went out cold. Even though she was out and went limp in dad's arms, she would not let go of the bar. ( Good girl, listened well. Too well) Dad kept asking her to let go but she couldn't or wouldn't. Troy had to pry her finger off the bars. Dad was scooped down low and was trying to get her to walk. She was out and her legs wouldn't move. He had some crazy adrenaline and stood straight up with her and carried her across the room to the bed. She scared us pretty good. She was out for about 2 minutes , totally unresponsive, eyes open and super pale. Carm had hit the emergency button during the chaos and about 9 nurses and staff rushed the room.

Within minutes they were taking her blood pressure which was 80/50. She started having dry heaves within seconds of coming to. Next came the blood work, ekg, oxygen and visit from a surgeon to evaluate her for stoke.

They determined that she was most likely dehydrated and the warmth from the shower coupled with being weak caused her to pass out. We have had a lot of attention in the last 3 hours and mom is doing a better and ready to sleep.

They are keeping a very close eye on her and will continue to do so throughout the night. I feel confidant she is stable now. She is hooked up to more fluid, nutrition and on her way to better hydration.

Please pray for them to have a very uneventful day tomorrow. This was not a fun way for her to end her day. She needs some encouragement and an end to the nausea so she can keep her food down and natural hydration.

I apologize if this is confusing. It's late. :)

Love and appreciate you all so much for your love and support.

Kimberly and family

Wed., August 17th

2011-08-17T16:09:00.000-07:00

I sit here really not knowing what or how to write. I really don't have much change to report. Part of me wants to gripe and vent. Yet on the other hand, we have had some sweet blessings today.
It is so difficult watching Mama be so miserable and sick. She had made some small bits of progress yesterday and we were feeling hopeful. However, last night she had a nurse that did not embrace some of the changes being tried by the shift prior and argued with us about almost everything. Regardless, Mama's nausea got worse under his watch and she is still trying to recover from the set backs. As you can imagine, her stomach, sides and back are very sore from day after day of this. Fortunately, the doctors listened to our concerns and complaints. They agreed and adjusted her orders to reflect the previous plan as well as changed her to oral meds that are easy to take and she can eventually be sent home with. Please continue to pray that the Lord will give the doctors and nurses wisdom regarding her nausea.
Radiology came and did the ultrasound of Mama's right kidney about 4pm today. We are still waiting to hear the results.
The highlight of our day came with an unexpected visit. The nurse's assistant today is one of our friends made several years ago during Mama first bout with cancer. We also have a friend from housekeeping. This morning our nursing assistant friend was in Mama's room, when our friend from housekeeping came with the pastor of her church. She had called him and asked him to come pray for Mama. We had the sweetest time of prayer together. (Mama, Daddy, myself, our two friends and her pastor.) We felt so blessed. It brought tears to Mama to think how much God loves us, that He would bring them to her today.
We do not have a discharge date yet, but we are hoping and praying for this to get resolved so she can go home soon. Thank you for your love and concern for Mama, Daddy and our family. We are truly thankful for each of you.
With love,
Carmen & family

Tuesday, August 16th

2011-08-16T23:11:00.000-07:00

Fourteen days into Mama’s hospital stay, she is still battling nausea. Each day, they try new combinations with her medications to get it under control so she can go home. I am seeing a slight bit of progress, but it’s not quite where it needs to be. I do believe she has been keeping more down then what is coming up. This evening, Mama’s stomach is doing better, so hopefully things are turning around. They keep speculating when she might get to go home (as soon as tomorrow), but everything hinges on this problem getting under control first.

Today the doctor ordered an ultrasound of her right kidney. It is to be done sometime this evening, but so far nothing. Dr. Gore, the kidney surgeon, wants to see what is going on with the mass in her kidney to see if there is any change.

Another bit of progress… Mama’s staples came out this evening. Her incision is healing well and no sign of infection.

Daddy took Mama for a little trip outside this afternoon. She is still pretty weak, so he rounded up a wheelchair and wheeled her and IV pole out for a little stroll and fresh air. That’s always good medicine. :)

Your prayers are so appreciated. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

With love,

Carmen & family

Monday, August 15th

2011-08-15T12:35:00.000-07:00

We have had a busy day. We woke up to doctors rounds at 6am. Doctors have felt that Mama's system just needed to wake up, but now getting concerned as to why the nausea has continued and she has so little tolerance to foods and drink. They ordered an upper GI scan to make sure that there is no blockage or wound leaks. Also, a PICC line was ordered to help with all the blood draws and IV nutrition.
Mama was really sick this morning. After we spent some time in prayer and thanking God for his blessings amidst the storm and thanking Him for all of His promises, we got to see many more blessings and answers to prayer.
Just before getting her PICC line in, Mama threw up and then began feeling better. It's crazy how that all works.... Her stomach has been good the rest of the day. :)
We had one of their best PICC nurses in to do Mama's line. In conversation, we found that she worked closely with Dr. Hickman before he retired. Dr. Hickman is the inventor of the Hickman catheter and has an amazing reputation. Great person to learn from. Thankfully, she was able to put it in with little discomfort and it works!
Mama then had her scan. She had to drink two bottles of contrast and praise the Lord...she was able to hold it down! The scans showed no blockage or leaks. Thank you Jesus! It did show that the muscles are just working very slow. They will hopefully get stronger and stronger each day. This is a big relief. They will be starting the IV nutrition tonight and will most likely send her home on with it. The doctor suggested that she lay on her right side about a half hour after she eats to help the stomach empty out into her intestines.
This afternoon and evening, Mama's nausea has been better. Tonight she had a few bites of soup for dinner and so far....so good.
We have been reading the blog comments and she has opened up all her mail. Thank you so much for keeping the encouraging words coming. This has been so wonderful. We especially appreciate all your prayers. We are seeing prayers answered, God's protection and feeling so loved. Thank you.
With love,
Carmen & family

Saturday August 13, 2011 Part II

2011-08-13T20:57:00.000-07:00

This has been an awful day for mom .

Her white blood cells are elevated and they are running some tests to see if she has an infection or if her pancreas or colon are leaking, or if there is inflammation present in the abdomen.
Her vomiting is violent and her stomach is so very sore and painful that she is just miserable. She has had all the anti nausea medicine she can take and continues to throw up.

They want to place a pik line which will give access to her veins for iv meds and to also draw blood, She is low on potassium but the iv potassium burns so much she can't tolerate it. They can't do the line until Monday so she has to take it orally in the meantime. With the pik line it won't hurt going in. She started getting a lot more nauseous after taking it by mouth and they say it has to be ingested or administered one way or another as it puts her heart at risk to be so low.

She is exhausted, sad, and discouraged. She has been asking the Lord fervently to help relieve her of the pain. Please pray for her. It is so awful to watch her hurt and seemingly get little relief, though it is nothing compared to what she is going through. Please pray for Dad. He is constantly by her side and loving on her, but it is so hard for him as well.

Please pray that she will not have an infection and that her white blood cell count will go down.

Please pray that she is able to sleep tonight. ( they still have a few more things to do tonight and I

want her to get some sleep soon.)

Thank you for following her blog and your words of encouragement. She / we appreciate it so very much.

With love,

Kimberly and family

Saturday August 13, 2011

2011-08-13T14:22:00.000-07:00

I think the title for today should be "Just a spoonful of sugar makes the medicine go down".

Morning= UGLY
Lots of vomiting, nausea, confusion, etc.
Mom's blood sugar was 30 at 11 o'clock and since the glucose went up to 80 then settled at 70 for now. They will check her every hour for a while and then every 3 hours after that.

Leah (RN) said that the last time she saw someone with blood sugar that low, they were no longer responding. Mom was somewhere between conscious and passed out for a couple hours, which has to be a miserable place to be.

Since the glucose, mom has started to come around some. The nausea has subsided, color has returned, and her alertness is returning.

Pastor Bob from Riddle, OR stopped by and gave us all a real life James 5:16a "The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much". Shortly after praying, Leah spotted the problem with the blood sugar. It was pretty awesome. He visited for about and hour and gave us some updates and encouragements on Aunt Donna, spent time with Dad and then headed for Riddle. It was a real blessing to Mom and Dad for sure.

Pastor Mark ( from mom and Dad and Troy and Maria's Church) will be stopping by this afternoon to visit and pray with Mom and Dad, so that will be great too.

Troy has been with them through this whole chapter and I am heading up there now. Carmen will be returning tomorrow to stay with them until they are released.

Please continue to pray for mom and dad to not be discouraged and frustrated with this glucose issue. I will update as I am able but not sure what the computer access will be like.

Troy, Kimberly and family

Friday August 12, 2011

2011-08-12T17:41:00.000-07:00

A message from Mom:

Mom is dictating some of this for me as she felt like she could add some input into her blog today. ( some of the time she is napping so I will ad lib..... :)

Mom and dad were happy to see Kale come (Carmen's son and their grandson) this morning to pick up Carmen and take her home for a few days. They got to visit for a bit before he had to leave to take sis home and work this afternoon.

I got here (Kimberly) late morning and when I walked in mom was very discouraged. She has had a rough couple of days and you could see it in her countenance.

She was nauseous, sick and hurting. She was thinking the only anti nausea medicine she isn't allergic to was making her jittery and she was frustrated with her information about her diet intake in the last several days. Their morning nurse sought out some information about post op diets after abdominal surgery which was really informative. After reading through it mom felt like she had been doing everything "wrong" in relation to her diet and that it had been a set back that had caused so much more stress and pain than necessary.

She hadn't been started on iv fluids and her iv that had been so carefully placed had been taken out Wednesday and for some reason had never been ordered.

When we spent the majority of mom's stay here in '08 / '09 we were mainly on the 6th floor. Mom and dad had taken a walk yesterday and they ran into a staff member form 6th floor. Before long the news had spread that she was back and she was getting visits from previous nurses and housekeepers.

Then this afternoon her nurse came in and said that we were being moved due to construction. We landed on the 6th floor. That was happy! Today she had a visit from one of her previous nurses that had the day off and came by just to see mom. Wow, she is loved.

Next the nutritionist came by and gave us some good information. More encouragement. Shortly after, Dr. Park showed up. He reassured mom that he is not worried about her. He knows that she feels horrible, but when you break down all the things he has to follow, he has no real concerns. He says this is a common recovery for such a tough, very invasive abdominal surgery and she should try not to be discouraged. There is no rule book for recovery and she did not do anything "wrong" but that she will progress as her body dictates. He was surprised that she 1.) did not have an iv and 2.) was not getting the hydration he had ordered yesterday. We again stressed what a terribly hard poke she is and that she gets concerned with who is going to place it. With that, he walked out of the room, got supplies, took off his jacket and said he would just do it himself. He joked with mom and asked her why she forgot to bring her veins with her when she came in, but in the end, he poked her one time and it was in. Another blessing....... Within 30 minutes she had iv hydration on board. She got an anti nausea patch, pain meds and withing an hour was feeling better.

As I type this, Troy is on his way up. I know mom and dad both are looking forward to seeing him. He has a way of making us all laugh and smile. He is good medicine to the soul as they say. ( "they" say that, not me, just for the record Troy :)

Dad has perked up a bit since mom has perked up. He has on these shoes that squeak really loudly on the floor in her room. I started razzin him about them and told him he should wear his slippers. To this he promptly decided he had to walk all over the room. He had quite a swagger too as he twisted and turned as he walked. He made mom laugh and of course the little bit of encouragement just fueled the fire for him to be even more obnoxious. Ya, I know, BIG surprise. :)

Tonight mom is looking better and I believe is more hopeful and positive about the next several days. Dr. Park does not feel they will need to spend a week at Cancer Care housing, but that by the time she is finally discharged she will be going straight home.

Carmen has read all the comments posted on the blog to mom and dad daily. They love hearing them and feel like they are little short visits from you all. Please keep them coming. They put a smile on their faces.

With much love and gratitude,

Kimberly and family

Thursday August 11th 2011

2011-08-11T23:21:00.000-07:00

I am writing this blog for Carmen as mom's computer seems to have decided it is done.

I want to just take a quick minute to thank Carmen for all she has done. Carmen went up on Tuesday August 4th with Mom and Dad for Mom's pre op. She has stayed around the clock with mom and dad since then, either sleeping on a cot next to mom or in the waiting room with dad one night. She has been home only one night when I was able to be there and off work.I just want to publicly thank her for her constant love and care of mom and dad during this time. Troy and I (and family) love and appreciate you and your time spent there loving them. We are in a different season than we were when mom went through treatment the first time.

Anyway, I just want to thank you sis. We love you. You are doing a wonderful job.

Ok, on to Mom. While she was doing better last night, today prompted new issues. First she ended up with a firestorm of consequences when it was noticed that she had blood in her urine. This triggered a bunch of tests and procedures that mom was miserable through. They never really figured it out but since it was only one time they decided to just watch her for now and stop further procedures and tests.

She gets really sick to her stomach with either something to drink or food in any small degree. She has been getting some conflicting advice about her diet but has decided to follow Dr.Park's advice to go slow and not push it and she will know best what she can tolerate. This seems to indicate that nothing is digesting. Tonight she threw up everything she had taken in for the entire day. It is such a disappointment to her as this could potentially keep her at UWMC and not allow her to transition to Seattle Cancer Care Alliance housing.

They have talked about restarting hydration for her. She gets pain with even a sip of a beverage or a bite to eat. There is speculation that her abdomen has not woken up yet and struggling to function properly after such an extensive surgery.

We covet prayer for her and ask that you pray for her to be pain free, for her abdomen to wake up and for her to be able to eat or drink without pain or repercussions.

Thank you for your love of mom.

It encourages us so much.

With much love,

Kimberly and family

Wed., Aug. 10th - Evening update

2011-08-10T21:49:00.000-07:00

It was a long day, but it is ending well. We have had multiple doctors visiting Mama throughout the day, with multiple opinions of what was wrong and what to do. She has had a lot of cramping and pain with some nausea most of the day. Her surgeon is on vacation now, so his associate Dr. Park has been making the final calls on her care. I have to say....we love Dr. Park! He has been wonderful. He finally got all the problems turned around and Mama is finally feeling better.
Mama is getting stronger every day. She has a long road of recovery ahead, but she is making progress each day. I read her blog comments to her, as we do each day, and she open up cards she has received in the mail. Mama said it was a big shot in the arm. She was moved by all the thoughtful words of kindness and encouragement and feels loved. When you show love to my Mama, you show love to our family. Thank you.
We have gotten two different opinions from doctors as to when she will be discharged from the hospital. Either Thursday or Friday....we will have to see how tomorrow goes. From here we will be going to Seattle Cancer Care Housing for about another 5 days. We are really looking forward to getting there. You never get much rest in the hospital, so we are looking forward to sleeping in real beds and catching up on sleep and rest.
Thank you for your continued prayers. They are being answered one by one. :)
With love,
Carmen & family

Wed., August 10th - Morning update

2011-08-10T07:05:00.000-07:00

Well the doctors came in this morning and now we are getting another story. There is no blockage, no kinks in anything from surgery..........no real answers. They did blood work this morning, so maybe it will show something. Meanwhile we wait for the Resident to talk with the surgeon to make some decisions. Mama continues to be on no food or drink. Please pray that she doesn't get dehydrated and her pain and nausea don't get out of control. I will give another update later this evening when hopefully....we will have some resolution and relief.
Thank you for keeping Mama lifted up in prayer.
With love and appreciation,
Carmen & family

Tuesday, Aug. 9th

2011-08-09T20:35:00.000-07:00

Doctors made the decision to remove Mama's epidural and IV pain pump today and switched her to oral meds. Unfortunately, the transition has not gone well and pain has been a big part of her day. She wasn't able to keep down any food or drinks. Each time she would eat or drink, she would got sick to her stomach and had a lot of pain in just minutes.
She has continued to get up and go for walks and sit up in a chair trying to get better and stronger. Her determination is amazing.
We are blessed to have Ernie for her evening nurse again. He really went to bat for her to expedite getting to the bottom of the problem. Mama went for X-rays this evening so the doctor could see what is going on. They found a blockage that will be dealt with in the morning. This is better than some of their other thoughts of what it could be. For now she has been told no food or drink by mouth. We appreciate your prayers regarding this problem causing her so much discomfort and pain.
A day full of pain and tears has really worn on Mama's nerves. She told me this evening, that she keeps thinking of scripture that says His mercies are new every morning. So she is looking forward to tomorrow and planning to have a better day.
At this moment, her pain and nausea are under control. She didn't get any rest today, so we are praying that her pain and nausea remain under control and she gets the sleep she so desperately needs tonight.
Thank you for your continued prayers and words of encouragement. We are so blessed.
With love,
Carmen & family

Monday 8/8/11 A rougher afternoon.....

2011-08-08T21:07:00.000-07:00

Today started out good. Mom ate some breakfast and was feeling pretty well. Her goal was to get up and sit in a chair at least 4 times and to walk at least 4 times. Being the determined, very tough woman she is, she knocked out 6.
By late morning she had been told no shower again today, so she bent over the sink so I could wash her hair. Next I gave her a "bird bath" as she always called it when we were growing up.
She said she felt like a new woman. She had some soup for lunch and a few bites of salad but by this afternoon was starting to experience pain. We asked a Dr. to come in and exam her. She was worried that she had pulled a staple, or hurt something internally. They felt very confidant that she had not. Painkillers may be good for pain, but they also keep organs "asleep" and some of them are still dormant. This can cause the pain and discomfort. She had pain on the 1-10 scale that was at a pretty healthy 7. She got up and walked some more trying to get some distraction and help.
She is now in bed and on her left side for the first time since having surgery. She is amazing, She brings me to tears seeing how determined she is as she pushes through the pain. She is anxious about a few things and I thought I would list them here and solicit some specific prayer for her.
1) The Dr.'s plan on turning the epidural off at 6:00AM. She is struggling on the epidural and very scared that she will have pain that will only be addressed with the slower pills and possibly get behind on the pain management. Please pray for a smooth transition. This is obviously necessary for her to get out of the hospital faster.
2) Pray that all her organs will be able to "wake up" and she will be less dependant on the meds and more comfortable overall.
3) Please pray for her as she must get a new iv tonight. If you have followed mom's blog in the past, you know what a difficult, "stick" she can be. She is on day 5 of the same iv and they usually change them after 3 days. She is really dreading this as she waits for it to get changed out tonight. Please pray for this specifically.
On a happy note, her nurse tonight is Ernie. ( Hey Uncle Frog. She shared with the nurse about her sweet brother Ernie that we all call Frog. She smiled when she spoke of her sweet brother. XOXO) Ernie is actually a nurse practitioner and they say he is the best on the floor for getting iv's in. Apparently, he is often called down to ER and OR for tough "sticks". He is the one doing it tonight so we feel grateful that God orchestrated it that way for her.
I would like to ask you to please continue to pray for her specifically tomorrow. She is very worried about it and dreading what may come. I happen to know that prayer can change things, so I am sending out a plea for prayer for her over these specific things.
I can't tell you enough how much I love this lady. I am so humbled by her strength and dignity.
I am grateful for dad's love and constant care for mom as well. The pain Dr. was amazed that dad has not left the hospital since mom's surgery. He shook his head on his way out today and said "Wow. Now that is dedication."My answer to him was simply "No. That is love."

With a grateful heart for all your love and prayers,
Kimberly and family

Sunday, Aug. 7th

2011-08-07T17:15:00.000-07:00

You've heard the saying, "Two steps forward. One step back." Well that was our day. But praise the Lord, in the end we have moved forward!
Mama's nausea would not go away, so the pain control has been changed. Her epidural was a mix of two different medications. One is like a Novocain which numbs the abdomen and was paired with another pain medication. The doctors decided to remove the pain med from the epidural and give her another form of medication by an IV pump. It worked! The nausea is gone. Thank you Lord! She has been so sick. I believe we found another allergy. It is so good to see her feeling better. Today is her first day eating more than a couple spoons of jello or broth. Tonight she actually ate a bowl of soup and drank some juice for dinner. This is huge!! She was so glad to eat and enjoy it.
With this change of medication, she no longer has an automatic pump for her pain medication. She now pumps it manually. The main side effects are quite a bit of drowsiness and the continued problem with her "busy dreams" which are frustrating to her. She was feeling so good that she felt she didn't need to pump her IV pump for a while. She didn't want to be sleepy or make the busy dreams any worse. At one point earlier this evening, she got behind in her pain control and it took a while to get everything back under control. So our job is to convince her to pump it when she starts to feel discomfort. Key word....."convince".
No longer fighting nausea has made walking and getting up to sit in a chair so much easier. Mama eating and drinking again makes everyone happy. It's just really important that she's able to keep her pain under control so they can eventually transition her to controlling it by oral medications and going home soon.
Mama is resting so much better tonight. Overall, we are feeling really encouraged. We are praying that her healing stomach does well with the introduction of food and there are no complications. Thank you for keeping her in your prayers as well. God bless you.
With love,
Carmen & family

Aug.6th - Better Day

2011-08-06T16:16:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to report that Mama is having a better day today. She was able to get some sleep last night. The doctors are very pleased with her progress. The surgeon told her to expect good and bad days even when she goes home. We are thankful that today is a good one.
The surgeon have asked her to go very slow with the clear liquid diet to prevent other problems or setbacks. The epidural is doing a good job with her pain control for her surgery site. She got a little behind in her pain for a while, but is doing better now. She has had some back and shoulder discomfort and of course abdominal discomfort when she moves or gets out of bed. However, this little lady is so determined to get better. If they ask her to walk a certain distance, she walks farther. She is bound and determined to get stronger and better soon. She continues to struggle with some nausea. Because of her allergies to so many medications, they really don't have much more options to try other than the meds currently being used to give her relief. The medication in her epidural makes her restless. It has been frustrating for her because she dreams odd (usual task oriented) dreams and wakes up with her hands fussing with the blankets, searching under the blankets or making motions with her hands that correlate with the dreams. Unfortunately, these hand movements end up waking her up over and over.
Mama's is real tired, but her smile is coming back. That is good medicine for all of us. :) Prayers are being answered. Thank you so much for keeping her covered in prayer. It's the best medicine of all!

With love,
Carmen and family

Friday, Aug.5th - Rough day

2011-08-05T14:45:00.000-07:00

Last night and today had many turn of events. The feeding tube turned out to be a real problem. It continued to make Mama sick all night and all morning. The object of the feeding tube was obviously to give her nutrition, but because it was causing so much nausea, it proved to be more of a problem than it was doing her good.
The doctors made the decision to remove the feeding tube this morning. Three different people tried to remove it and failed. (I will save everyone the unpleasant details.) Other measures were taken and the fourth time worked. It was a long 5 1/2 hours, but it is over and behind her now. She is slowly being introduced to a clear liquid diet now.
Since the feeding tube was removed, she is more comfortable and nausea seems to be better controlled. Her oxygen was put back on last night, but they are considering taking her off of it again later this evening or tomorrow. They discontinued her Insulin drip and have pushed out the blood sugar tests to about every 4 hours. Her catheter was also removed and she went for her first short walk down the hall this evening. So there have been some noticeable improvements in recovery today.
It has been a very hard and long day. Mama is exhausted. I believe the worst of today is behind her and hopefully she can get a little rest now.
All of today's challenges were very hard on Daddy. After all, he is her protector and there is little he can do in these circumstances to shield her from the pain.
God has carried us through yet another rough day. We feel your prayers and are very grateful for each and everyone of you. God bless you.

With love,
Carmen & family

Evening Update - August 4th

2011-08-04T21:22:00.000-07:00

I cannot express how grateful we are for all the prayers for Mama and our family. We are seeing many answers to prayer.

Doctors feel the surgery went well and Mama's progressing well.

Mama's pain is moderate and under control.

Her nausea is much better controlled as well.

Her blood sugar is stabilizing, so her pokes for blood sugar testing have been extended to every 2 hours. (It was every 15 minutes for several hours today, which was exhausting with everything else going on as well. Not to mention her poor little fingers are getting sore.)

She is getting a little bit of sleep now. With everyone coming into her room all night and day, she didn't sleep much. They expect to not have to come in and disturb her but every 1 to 2 hours. It's so good to see her resting.

Mama has had excellent nurses and care. The staff has been wonderful. Everyone is so kind and compassionate to her as well as the family.

We are experiencing God's peace in the midst of our storm.

Even though we didn't get much sleep, God has given us strength.

Tonight's challenge is her feeding tube. The nutrition pump was added late this evening. The nutrition is fed at a very slow rate, but it was still causing her to gag and feel sick. Elevating the head of her bed up to a sitting position seems to be helping and she is resting now. They are not sure how her body will ultimately respond to the feeding tube, but it is very important that she get the nutrition since they are resting the stomach and there is no food by mouth for now.

She also has a really sore throat. It could be partly from the breathing tube during surgery, but they think it most likely is from the oxygen drying out her throat. They unhooked her oxygen tonight and her levels look good. So hopefully they will stay up and her throat can recover quickly.

We appreciate your continued prayers.

With love,
Carmen and family

Aug. 4th - Day after surgery

2011-08-04T12:38:00.000-07:00

Mama finally got out of recovery about 9:45pm last night and was moved to her room. Low blood pressure and nausea were the main culprits of keeping her in recovery so long. They are keeping a real close watch on her, so she didn't get much sleep last night. Between blood draws, taking her normal vitals and hourly blood sugar tests, the interruptions were about every 15 minutes to a half hour.

The consent interruptions have continued today, so she still is not getting much sleep. Mama is extremely weak and talks with a whisper. The doctors felt everything went well in the surgery. They are adjusting her pain and nausea medication and treatment to try to get her more comfortable. Due to her allergies to so many of their most commonly use medications for nausea, they are also trying an acupressure treatment along with her current meds. Moving induces nausea, so their request for her to get up and at least sit on the side of the bed or a chair is yet a challenge. She sat on the side of the bed once this morning. I read her the comments posted on her blog while she was sitting to help distract and encourage. She gave little smiles and soft words of appreciation. Thank you for your notes of love and encouragement. They mean so much.

Even in the midst of the storm, we know and trust God is in control. We appreciate your continued prayers, notes of encouragement and gifts of love.

With love and appreciation,
Carmen and family

August 3rd, 2011 Surgery

2011-08-03T17:40:00.001-07:00

"I will not despair, for God is always good" Psalm 27:10

Today has been a long day for mom in surgery.
She was really sick all day yesterday and nauseous throughout the night.
We had to be here by 6:30 AM,she was taken back at 7:00.

They got the iv in on the first try. (a major victory as this is a multiple try ordeal every time) Dad stayed with her during her consultation with the anesthesiologist and surgeons.

They told mom and dad that there was a possibility they would not even address the right kidney today if the surgery was too long and would cause too much stress for her. The kidney surgeon said that they could address the kidney at a later time either laproscopicly, or with a cryo treatment or inject chemo. In any event it is less worrisome than the large mass so they needed to make sure we understood that they would address it later if today's surgery was too extensive and they needed to spend the majority of the time on the pancreas / stomach area.

We got calls every two hours to update us from the OR. The end result is this:
They took the lower half of the pancreas,they took the spleen,there was stomach involvement so they took a section of the stomach as well. The thing we were not expecting was that they also had to take part of her colon. The mass was really invasive and they had to take particular care in dissecting around blood vessels to not interrupt circulation. This was tedious and took the most time. Since it was all on the left side and it took so long in that area they elected to not cause trauma to the opposite side as well.

She has a tube in her side draining fluids. The surgeon says this is his main concern. Tissue has to be sewn together and may leak. There was so much done that now it can be leakage from the pancreas, stomach or colon. Please pray for healing of the areas. Please pray that all cancer on a cellular level will disappear.

She has a tune down her nose that bypasses her stomach and goes into her intestine. She will be given some nutrition through it later if she is doing well.

She has an epidural to help manage her post operative pain. Please pray that she has relief from pain and is able to rest comfortably. She has degenerative discs in her neck and laying in bed can be miserable. This is an area that would be merciful for her to have relief so I am going to ask specificly for prayer over her in this as well.

She had an excellent surgical team, she did not need any transfusions and her vital signs were good throughout surgery.

Our prayer now is for her blood pressure. She is in recovery but her BP has tanked and they are working on getting it back up to an acceptable level. This is normal for mom as she has done this after every other surgery she has had, but it still needs to get turned around soon.

Please feel free to leave comments for her here. When she is awake and out of pain we will be reading them to her.

We have truly felt your love and prayers during this incredibly long day. We have had peace even in the midst of anxiety. For that we are grateful.

We appreciate and love you.
With a grateful heart,

Kimberly and family

July 30, 2011 Update

2011-07-30T14:31:00.000-07:00

Here is the latest update from Mom's visit at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.

She met with Dr.Pillarisetty (abdominal surgeon,specializing in pancreatic surgery) and he stated that they will do pre op on Tuesday and then she will be the first surgery of the day on Wednesday. They will start with scoping mom first to see what all is involved. They will be looking to make sure they have not missed anything in the scans. Normally with a pancreatic surgery they access from the left side, but since the right kidney is involved as well they will go through the center. They will either take a part of the right kidney, or will remove it entirely. From a week ago the mass in the pancreas has grown 1cm by 2cm in the last week. They do not believe it is a psuedo cyst, but a tumor. Either way, they say it has to be removed. He feels he will most likely take the lower half of the pancreas. He says that it is hard to see what all is involved. If he feels the spleen is involved, or at a great future risk, he will remove it as well. He does not think there will be a problem with the stomach, but again if the stomach has any involvement, he may have to remove a small section of the stomach as well. The abdominal surgeon will be doing the scoping, pancreas, spleen and stomache part and the kidney specialist/surgeon will be operating on her right kidney. The surgeon is estimating about 6 hours for surgery and then a few hours in recovery. She will get a drain tube from her side to drain any fluids after surgery. It comes out when it stops "draining". No estimated time frame for that, she may even go home with it if needed.

They expect her to stay at UWMC hospital for at least 5 days, and after that they want her to stay at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance housing for another 5 days so they are close to UWMC in case she needs some additional after care.

We are definately asking for prayer for protection, healing, comfort, skill for the suegeons and peace for all of us as we restart this journey with Mom. Please pray for dad. This has been tough for him. He is so strong and a wonderful encourager to mom. We kids are so incredibly blessed to have them as our parents and we thank God for allowing us to be able to walk with them through the storm.

Thank you ahead of time for your words of love and encouragement. They have always meant so much.

Kimberly and family

July 20, 2011 Update

2011-07-20T17:25:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I have posted anything. I am not even sure anyone checks here at all but have been asked to post an update. I have been of the mindset that no news is good news in regards to this blog. Needless to say, I would have preferred to have retired the site altogether than to have to reactivate it.

Where do I start? Well, as many of you know, mom has been doing well with each follow up at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. She goes several times a year and the last visit was great. Shortly after that she started having intermittent discomfort in her side. She did not think much of it as it was the same side the half lung and rib was removed. She has been tender there since the surgery. The pain started to become more frequent, then more intense. After a while she felt she should have it checked out and went to her primary care Dr. Last Thursay, her Dr. ordered an ultra sound of her side. She was to have a follow up visit to review the findings a week later. Thursday night they called and told her they had found a mass on her pancreas and would need a CAT scan the next morning. Friday she had the CAT scan and had to wait until Tuesday (yesterday, to meet with her primary care provider(PCP) for the results.) She found out that she has a 8cm x 9cm mass on the tip of her pancreas that appears suspicious. There is a possibility it could be a cyst, but they are unsure. In addition, they found another mass on her right kidney that they say is very suspicious for cancer. This was not the news we were hoping for. Mom and Dad have contacted Seattle Cancer Care and have an appt next Tuesday 7/26/11 with her Oncologist.

We are asking for prayer that in that time we will have answers, have a plan for treatment and a wonderful prognosis. This is a hard set back to hear at this time so we are still processing and trusting the Lord for His hand of protection and healing to stay on mom's life.

If you would also remember mom's 2 siblings in your prayer as well, we would be grateful. Her sister Donna is battling cancer and has it in her bones and breast. It was in her liver and lungs but as of yesterday that is gone. She has damage to her liver from the cancer / treatment so it is a huge concern as is the fact that she needs a masectomy in the next few months. The bone cancer is serioius, so we need God's intervention on her behalf. God can and has removed the cancer form the liver and lungs. Please pray for the continuation of her whole body healing.

And unbelievably, a second sibling, her brother Dean has bladder cancer. He is having a high risk surgery Thursday morning 7/22/11 at 6:30 AM. Please pray for success in the surgery and healing for him as well.

Cancer may have a grip on this family, but God holds us in His mighty hand.

A friend reminded me of His love and one of His promises in this verse this morning.

Isaiah 41:10 " Do not fear, for I am with you. I will strengthen you and help you."(This I know very well, yet some days I need the reminder. Thank you sweet Carrie)

With love,
Kimberly and family

A message from Mom! :) 5/ 30/10

2010-05-30T17:32:00.000-07:00

I haven't written for some time and wanted to touch base with you all,and let you know how things are going for Warren and I.

On April 27, we got another good report from the Dr's. in Seattle.Everyday is a celebration now!

Warren is working, and glad to have a job, when there are so many out of work.He drives a very long distance to and from work, so he has long days.
I am so enjoying being able to do the things that I couldn't do last year at this time. Today, the weather was so nice, we planted some flowers and did some weeding. It felt good to be out pulling weeds again. I never enjoyed it so much before!
I am volunteering at the Gospel Lighthouse Mission on Mondays. We serve Coffee and rolls to people in the morning, and a light lunch at noon and throughout the day. They always have soup and hot dogs unless the volunteers make something and bring in. There are people living on the street or in cars. I have met women from battered women shelters, some from the drug rehab, and people just out of work having trouble making it. They offer clothing, shoes, coats etc. and they also give bags of food to families who are in need.We want to share God's love not just in words, but also in personal care. It is something I have thought about doing for sometime and I am glad for the opportunity.
Tuesdays, I have been going to a ladies Bible study with a friend in Onalaska.I have met 8 new friends, and have really enjoyed learning more. Afterwards, I go to see Warren's mom, Evelyn and spend several hours with her.I have looked forward to spending more time with her.
Wednesdays are my day to get caught up with housework, washing, errands or whatever.
Thursdays are really fun. Two of my friends come to our house and we attempt to learn more about painting. We are all artist wannabees, but we have so much fun painting, visiting, and laughing.
Fridays are not planned so I can get extra things done, or just have time for unexpected blessings. Last Friday, my sister, Eddie came and spent the day with me.When I was sick, she came and stayed with me,now I can make her lunch when she comes to visit.
Weekends come and go quickly. We want to visit Evelyn, spend time with our children and grandchildren as often as we can,and go to Church.Our weekends fly by, and it feels like the months are also short.
I never appreciated life to it's fullest until now.I am thankful for everyday that God gives me, and I want to show Him that I appreciate it by loving every blessing that He gives me.
I go back to Seattle in July for my 3 month check up. I'm looking forward to more good news. I still know that you all have had a part in my healing by praying for me. Thank you with all my heart, for hanging in there with me. I have been so blessed!

Love and happiness for a wonderful summer. Ladeva

An update on Mom

2010-04-29T22:03:00.000-07:00

God is good.

As the 27th approached I have to admit I was feeling a bit of dread.
Mom's 3 month scan was clean last year. Her 6 month scan yielded another scary and painful chapter for her.

This year her 3 month was clear. Would her 6 month hold the promise of another chapter of treatment?

No, it did not. It held joy, relief, thankfulness, and praise to the one who loves her even more than we can fathom.

Thank you for your prayers.
Thank you for remembering to pray for her as this day approached.
Thank you for checking her progress through this blog.

Mom will return to Seattle Cancer Care in another 3 months for another day of testing and scans. Thank you in advance for keeping Mom and Dad on your heart.

With love,
Kimberly and family

April 27 is just around the corner

2010-04-22T22:59:00.001-07:00

Well, April 27th is the day Mom and Dad go back to Seattle for Mom's next round of scans.

I would like to ask you to please pray for her. It is a stressful time as it approaches and I know the anxiety is a little high for Mom as well.

Please remember her in your prayers as it approaches.

Thank you,
Kimberly

Beautiful lady

2010-02-21T12:05:00.000-08:00

We thought you may like to see an updated picture of our beautiful Mother.
This is a picture Carson (Carmen's son)took of Mom at Christmas.

She is doing better with each week that goes by.
She is back in her painting class and watching some grandbabies here and there.

Feel free to drop her a note via email. They have a new email address, so make sure you have it before you send it.

Kimberly

"Superwoman!"

2010-01-26T17:57:00.000-08:00

Tuesday January 26, 2010

Today Mom and Dad went to Seattle Cancer Care Alliance for Mom's 3 month scan.
They did not find any cancer in her legs or her lungs!!!!!!!!

Her lung is healing well and she will go back in 3 months for her next scan.

They did find in the scan that she still has some residual staph infection in the leg which has been on and off since the original surgery.They put her back on antibiotics and Dr. Conrad called Mom "Superwoman"

(Took the boy long enough to figure out what we have known all along!)

Thank you everyone for praying for Mom as she has been waiting for this day and trusting the Lord for a good report.

We love you all for your support and prayers.

Kimberly and family

PS
Mom has a new computer and new email address. I don't want to post it here, so write, call or contact someone in the family for her new email address if you don't already have it.

Blessings,
Kimberly

Stolen computers..........

2009-12-26T22:46:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
I just wanted to update you and let you know that Mom will not be able to write you or check her emails and blog entries for a while. A week ago I had Mom's laptop here at our house so I could download some of her pictures onto cd's as well as have a friend of ours look at it. Her computer was having some major issues. Last Friday our house was broken into and we had three computers stolen as well as many other things. One of them was Mom and Dad's. No one was hurt and we are just dealing with the after math of it all.

It may be a week or two before we get the new computer and get it all hooked up and running.

Thank you for being patient. Please don't worry if you don't hear back from Mom via the blog or email for a while.

Thank you,
Kimberly

December 21, 2009

2009-12-21T21:27:00.000-08:00

Mom and Dad went to Seattle today for her follow up with the lung surgeon.

The news was very good.
Her oxygen saturation is good, she is healing well and her lung has even expanded a bit longer than before. The surgeon has released her from his care.
This was good news and a great day for them.

Mom will go back to see her Oncologist in February for another scan and will continue to see her every three months for the next two years. Please join us in praying specifically for healing for each scan as they approach.
We will keep you updated as each appointment approaches.

Thank you for checking the blog, praying for Mom and Dad and loving them through each step of this journey.

Kimberly and family

A Message from Mom 12/14/09

2009-12-14T18:46:00.000-08:00

Dear family and friends,

I've been thinking of how you have prayed for me and I want you to know I appreciate each of you with all my heart.

I hope you will continue, and feel encouraged.

This surgery has been a tough one, but I had a very good surgeon and wonderful care at home with Warren and friend Sandy taking care of me and keeping up at home.

This has been a test on my faith, not that Jesus didn't love or hear me, but that He may have another plan for me other than healing now.

I have thought a lot about my own Mom dying at age 47 and wrote out my plans for my funeral. I would get up at night so as not to discourage Warren.

I had two sick days that were very dark and just felt like crying all day. Warren was reading a book called "Faith Hunt". It was written by a hunter and told of his hunting stories and his own faith stand. Warren and I were alone one evening and he shared with me his own faith stand for my complete healing. He reminded me that our grandson had been near death as an infant for months in IICU at Children's hospital. We pleaded with God to heal our baby grandson even though the Dr.'s said it was completely impossible. Brittain got to come home, though he was not healed instantly.

He was on 18 oral meds a day and on i.v. meds for 23 hours a day. Kimberly and Brian took care of him around the clock. He was uncomfortable and yet God WAS healing him day by day. The Dr.'s today, find that his once damaged heart is fine, and Brittain is a strong,bright,wonderful young man. He is our own reminder that God hears and cares.

I realized the dark feelings and doubt that was creeping in were not coming from God, but had crept in while I was weak and vulnerable.

Talking with Warren bolstered my faith and I had a heart talk with Jesus.
I asked Him for complete healing. I told Him I would not doubt even though it may take a while before we hear this cancer is gone.

My health and attitude have turned a corner. I still have pain, but I am getting stronger. My outlook is good and I am so glad Warren is trusting with me.

Christmas is such a wonderful time when God came to earth and became flesh in the form of a small baby. He did this so that as a man He would give us the ultimate gift of forgiveness through His death and resurrection, restoring us to God the father.

We wish you all a most wonderful Christmas, and a Happy New Year to you and your families.

Luke 18:35-43
A blind man was brought to Jesus. Jesus asked him "What do you want me to do for you"?

"Lord, I want to see", he replied. Jesus said "Receive your sight,YOUR FAITH has healed you". Immediately he received his sight"!

Mathew 9:20
A woman who had been sick for 12 years touched the hem of Jesus' cloak believing that a mere touch of his robe would heal her. Jesus turned and saw her, saying
"Take heart daughter, your faith has healed you"!

Today, I am also taking heart,and trusting in the Lord for His healing touch.

We love you all,

Ladeva and Warren

Dr, appointment results

2009-11-23T21:07:00.000-08:00

Mom and Dad went to Seattle today for Mom's scan and follow up appointment.

She started feeling nauseous again last night and was back to throwing up as well. It was an uncomfortable trip up on the bumpy roads but they got up there and Mom had her scan first followed by seeing Dr. Mulligan.

He removed her sutures and put the little steri strips in their place.
She was really feeling sick and he got her a anti nausea med that dissolves under the tongue. He wrote her some new prescriptions for anti nausea patches and disolvable meds as well.

He told them that the scans did not show new growth and the lung margins appear clear. He did tell then that there could be microscopic cancer cells unseen to the naked eye, but today is not the day to worry about that. Today we celebrate that everything looked good and she is healing well. She will see Dr. Mulligan again in a month and her Oncologist Dr. Rodler in 2 months.

The ride home was tough again, but I am sure she went home and took a good long nap.

I am so glad the stitches are out now. Please continue to pray for the nausea to come under control and keep the pain down as well.

We love and appreciate your prayers. Please feel free to post, call or write. If Mom can't talk she will not answer the phone or Dad will just let you know that she is not able to at the time. She may talk for just a few minutes and then have to rest, but just know she appreciates you so very much.

Blessings,
Kimberly and family

Update on Mom Sunday November 22, 2009

2009-11-22T20:22:00.000-08:00

Thank you so much for the prayers for Mom.

She seems to be doing better as they are getting a good schedule with her meds and she is getting more relief from the pain.

She is sleeping fairly well and her pain in her back is not as bad as it was.

She told me this morning that she has been enjoying some of the new pajamas and robes she has received. (Thank you Linda Day and anyone else I may have over looked)
She has had ample opportunity to wear them. :) (She never let her kids stay in jammies all day!)

She and Dad drive to Seattle tomorrow for her follow up at UWMC. She has a scan then an appointment with Dr. Mulligan her lung surgeon. Not sure, but we are hoping the stitches come out then as well.

We still wait to find out when or even IF she needs to see Dr.Rodler, her oncologist. Please pray for her comfort tomorrow as the drive home from Seattle after surgery was super uncomfortable. Hopefully two weeks later and with the right combination of pain killers on board she won't feel every pothole in the road.

Thank you all for your words of love and encouragement here.
We appreciate you more than you know.

Blessings,
Kimberly & family

Tuesday 11/17/09

2009-11-17T21:02:00.000-08:00

Just a quick update on Mom.

Please continue to pray for Mom as the nausea continues,the pain meds and anti nausea meds sedate her and she continues the dance of trying to balance them all
without the side effects causing more problems.

Thank you to Wanda Barlow (PCLI) for running up to check Mom's oxygen saturation levels today on a moments notice. We appreciate that more than you know Wanda. We hesitate to take her to the Dr.'s office or hospital with so many germs out there.
It was a blessing to have the "house call". Her levels were between 96% - 98% so all was fine. We were concerned because she could not wake up 100% today and was overly groggy most of the day until late afternoon. We believe now it was the combination of anti nausea patch, anti nausea pills and pain medication. She hyper metabolises (is that a word???) medication so she is a hard one to regulate on anything.

It will still be a while before she can have guests. She just feels crummy and so very fatigued. Thank you for understanding.

I don't want to post her address on the Internet, but if you don't have it and would like to send her a card or note, please email me (here) or send them via my address:

Kimberly Gibson
P.O. Box 269
Kapowsin, WA 98344

Thank you again for faithfully praying for Mom.

Blessings,
Kimberly and family

Sunday November 15 2009

2009-11-15T22:21:00.000-08:00

Just a quick update asking you to pray for Mom.
The pain meds are causing a lot of nausea and Mom is throwing up a lot and has dry heaves as well. You can imagine this causes so much pain from the 8-9 " incision from her back to her side. Add to that a sore and tender lung and coughing that follows and it is really miserable. The Dr. ordered her another antinausea patch that can be worn for three days, but asked her to stop the oxycodone and the ibuprofen for now and only use tylenol. Please pray it is sufficient for the pain. She is already sore from the vomiting and now to go off the heavy pain meds makes me a bit concerned for her pain level. It is a frustrating dance. Please pray for Dad as well. He is doing an amazing job caring for Mom, but is worried for her as well. We all feel helpless to make it any better. Prayer changes things. Please pray for relief from pain, nausea, soreness and an incredibly sore back. Please pray for a decent night's sleep for them all.

We appreciate you all and rely on you to lift her up in prayer. We are so thankful for you.

With love and appreciation,
Kimberly and family

Recovering at Home

2009-11-12T20:03:00.000-08:00

It is so good to be home again. With no one coming into the room to take vitals, Mama was able to get some better sleep last night. Her pain is under control as well as the nausea. Her incision site on her back is very sore, so she is continually trying to get comfortable. Her medication makes her very sleepy, but we are so thankful for her relief from the pain. Mama is still very weak. It is going to take some time to regain her strength again. She also continues to do breathing exercises to strengthen her lungs.

Mama's longtime friend Sandy Macomber is staying with Mama and Daddy to help with Mama's home care and give Daddy rest. She was also a huge help during Mama's first bout with cancer. Sandy, thank you so much. We love you dearly.

Mama enjoyed reading her cards and looking at her beautiful flowers today. She is feeling very loved. I believe this is the most smiles I have seen from her since surgery.

Thank you for your continued prayers and words of encouragement. We will keep you updated.

With love,
Carmen and family

Wednesday Nov. 11, 2009 update

2009-11-11T21:38:00.000-08:00

They're home!!!

It was a very long day, but sweet in the end. Mom,Dad and Carmen are finally home.
Dad said it was a hard ride as Mom could feel every little bump because she is so sore. When they got home her pain was kicking up a notch but they were able to get some additional meds on board and get it under control. The anti nausea patch seems to be doing the trick for her so far and keeps the nausea at a minimum.

Please continue to pray that she will be able to rest,get comfortable and sleep at home.

She is so exhausted. All her energy is being spent to get her well and regain some strength after this major surgery. So, if you call, she will most likely not have it in her to visit much for a while. She gets tired very easily.

We are also concerned with flu season and the fact that Mom did not get a flu shot before all of this started. It might be a good idea to not try to come and visit for the first two weeks or so. This is not her talking, and she may even disagree, but the front line is worried about her so we are hoping you will join us in protecting her. It will be 6-8 weeks before she will be bouncing back a bit and hopefully she will be feeling better soon and able to let us know what she wants or needs. For now, we are trying to do the best we can to figure out how best to care for her.

Her incision is much bigger than we had thought it would be and getting up and down and walking is no day in the park, let alone the internal healing from removing the lower lobe of the lung. We will post often and keep you all updated as to her progress and will give you a green light when she is ready for visitors.

I'm sure it doesn't need to be said, but when it is time for visitors please make sure you are completely healthy and that no one in your family is sick or runnning a fever. This is a crazy flu season already. The worst scenerio that I see right now is flu that goes into pneumonia. That could be devastating to her now.

As always, I want to end by thanking you all for the cards, emails, blog entries, texts and prayer for Mom and Dad. They definately have the best friends and family in the world. You guys have no idea what the kindnes and love shown to them means. You encourage her to fight and to keep pushing. You reenergize her, delight her and bless her and Dad both. By that, we her children and grandchildren, are blessed as well.

May God return those blessings to you seven fold. (because 7 is Mom's favorite number ) :)

With love,
Kimberly and family

Going Home!

2009-11-11T07:31:00.000-08:00

Prayers have been answered!!! Thank you Lord Jesus!!! Pain is under control, nausea is at a minimum, oxygen counts are exceeding the number needed to get out of here. Mama is extremely tired but is doing so much better. Her walks have had to be considerably shortened over the last several days. The short walks feel good to be up and out of bed, but usually wipes her out and sends her right back to bed to regain her strength. They will be doing one last chest x-ray before sending her home just to confirm all is still well. The past x-rays have been fine so they do not anticipate any problems.

We are looking forward to getting her home. Hopefully there she will be able to get some better rest. Besides, there is nothing like going home. :) Thank you again for your prayers. Kim and I will do our best to keep you updated with her progress at home.

All Praise be to God. He is our Great Physician, protector and comforter.

With love,
Carmen and family

Tuesday trials

2009-11-10T19:24:00.000-08:00

Last night Mama was able to get a little more rest. It was so nice to see her get some sleep. However the early morning and rest of the day brought trials. Pain management and nausea has continued to be an issue.

During doctors rounds, the doctors decided she would be released from the hospital today. Due to the pain still not under control, nausea and a few other issues, we were not in agreement that discharging her would be in her best interest. We were able to meet with our nurse and one of the doctors again to express our concerns and frustrations. Fortunately this time we were heard and they agreed to keep her here until things are better under control.

Mama has been very sick today and struggled with nausea especially after taking her medication. We are having a hard time finding the combination of food and meds that will keep her nausea down. She is taking nausea medication, but it doesn't seem to be doing the trick. Her sweet nurse this evening has taken the extra time with her to better understand her needs and has placed a patch behind her ear to additionally help her with the nausea.

Not being heard and feeling blown off has been very frustrating. But the Lord is now bringing us the special people we need and that will listen and respond. They expect that tomorrow Mama should be ready to be discharged, however it will depend on her pain management, nausea and oxygen level.

We would appreciate your continued prayers regarding those three issues, as well as peace for the rattled nerves.

I am attaching a link that has spoke to our family's heart. I hope it blesses you as well. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RvIEJ_PmqJ8

With love,
Carmen and family

Monday evening update

2009-11-09T19:58:00.000-08:00

After this mornings post, things got a little rough. It has been Mama's worst day yet. The epidural was removed shortly after the chest tube. The transition from epidural to oral pain meds was not smooth. Mama was experiencing quite a lot of pain most of the day. This evening they finally got her pain under control. She has been so droopy that she could not stay awake during dinner. She doesn't like being so sleepy, but she is so thankful for the sleep and rest. She is resting well now. Hopefully tomorrow is a much better day.

Thank you to all that have held Mama and our family up in prayer. We can feel your prayers. We love and appreciate you all so much.

With love,
Carmen

Monday morning update

2009-11-09T10:13:00.000-08:00

The biggest blessing so far this morning is the chest tube has been removed. Mama was able to get a boost on her epidural before the doctor started. Her doctor was extremely kind and gentle. He took every measure to make it go as easy as possible for her. The Lord's peace was present the whole time. He is always faithful.

She is pretty wiped out and is in bed sleeping now. They will be taking her down for x-rays this afternoon to confirm that her lung is fully inflating. Her epidural will soon be turned off and they will see if she can control pain by oral medication. If she is able to control pain orally, they will then remove her epidural and everything else. Once she has everything removed, they will make plans for her to be able to go home.

Mama is a little tiger. She has been working extra hard to do everything they ask of her and MORE! If they ask for a set of 10 breathing exercises, she gives 15-20. If they want her to take a short walk, she walks a full loop. She is completely amazing and courageous. We are so proud of her. I have no doubt that she will be heading home soon.

Daddy is doing well. He is her rock and my hero. His love for her is so transparent.

I will do my best to get another update this evening. Thank you for your continued prayers. Your emails, texts, blog messages, cards and messages have been a huge blessing to Mama and all of us. May the Lord bless each of you also.

With love,
Carmen and family

One day post op 11/07/09

2009-11-07T17:19:00.000-08:00

Day one and Mom is really doing well. Last night and most of the night was rough. Trying to manage her pain and yet keep her awake was a problem. She was really heavily sedated and could hardly stay awake to even do her breathing excercises which are incredibly important right after surgery.

She has an epidural in that was placed prior to surgery yesterday. They try to keep her pain low so that she will take deep breaths. If she is in pain, she will take shallow breaths. They also had her hooked to a pain monitor that she can administer to herself every six minutes. This morning they took that away from her because she was too heavily sedated and couldn't wake up for more than a few seconds at a time.

By noon she was more awake and sitting up in a chair. This evening she took her first walk and is back in the chair waiting for dinner, but asleep. She is having terrible itching that they believe is a reaction to one of the pain meds so after we wake her and she eats, they will give her a half dose of benedryl.(Which will put her to sleep) :)

All in all she is doing better today. Super tired of course, but she is determined and courageous.

Thank you all for your prayers and calls. She is tired, but in between naps we tell of each of your calls or emails or blog posts. She smiles and goes back to sleep but remembers them when she wakes up. It is a blessing to her and to us.

May GOd bless you for remembering Mom and Dad in your prayers and thoughts.
We appreciate you.
Kimberly and family

Out of surgery 11-6-09

2009-11-06T15:13:00.000-08:00

Whew! What a day. We arrived here at UWMC at 6:30AM today for check in. Mom had been told that her surgery time could be delayed if Dr. Mulligan had any emergency surgeries. He had an emergency transplant this morning and ended up going back for surgery prep about 11:45 AM.

Dr. Mulligan just came out and met with Dad, Carmen, Troy and I and gave us the surgery update. Surgery went well. Even though he was trying to stay with a smaller incision, he was not able to. The good news is that he did not have to remove a rib.He did have to remove a bit of cartlidge and a segment of bone to remove the lower left lobe.He said that the tumor was large and pressing on vessels and some breathing mechanisms so it was harder to remove than he had hoped. The new "nodule" we had learned about was about the size of a racquetball. This was a shock as we all invisioned it to be the size of a grape.It had grown to that size in three months.

He stated that if it had been much longer before doing the surgery he would have had to remove the entire lung. He only had about 1 mm wiggle room for the removal.
He stated that the remaining tissue looks healthy and disease free.

We are so grateful for this surgeon. He is meticulous and so cautious and conservative in his approach. He told us that most surgeons spread the ribs to get to the tumor or lung and often break or crack the ribs, but that he chooses to work around all aspects to minimize her pain and recovery.

Mom will be here a minimum of four days.She will have a chest tube in for drainage. Her release from here will be dependant on that progress.Her recovery time will be approximately 6-8 weeks at home. she will be very fatigued as all her calories will go towards her healing.

Mom will be in recovery now for another 2-3 hours and then be moved to the 5th floor NE.

Thank you all for your prayers,texts and calls throughout the day today.

We felt so loved and blessed by you all.

I also want to thank Mom and Dad's friends (pastor/wife) Greg, Lucia and son Alex Anderson as well as friend Steve Grace for their presence. They came up last night and stayed in the same hotel as Mom, Dad and Carmen. They went to dinner together and had a wonderful time keeping everyone distracted from the stress of the day today. They stayed all day and are still here now. They gave up their time to be here and blessed Mom and Dad so very much. We thank you.

Thank you for your prayers and words of love and encouragement.

We will update tomorrow to let you know how Mom is doing after we get to be with her.

With gratitude and love,
Kimberly and family

Lung surgery scheduled for Friday

2009-11-02T20:20:00.000-08:00

Today was a long day. About 6 1/2 hours of appointments, waiting rooms and lab work. We met with the surgeon, Dr. Mulligan along with his PA, the surgery coordinator, surgery counselor, the anesthesiologist's nurse and blood draws. Due to the location of the nodules on the lung and the areas they are effecting, the decision was made to remove the lower half of Mama's left lung. Also by doing this, they will be able to remove what they call a marginal area around the cancer sites. This is done as a precaution in case there are any other cancer cells that can not be seen in the region where the other nodules have popped up.

Dr. Mulligan comes very highly recommended. He is also a lung transplant surgeon. We were told "He's the best in the West!". He is hopeful that he will be able to make 4 small incisions and do the surgery laparoscopically rather than the larger incision and the removal of a rib. To do the surgery with the scope would cut the recovery time in half, which means 3-4 days in the hospital and then 3-4 weeks at home. The more invasive surgery would be done only if Dr. Mulligan runs into difficulties during surgery.

On a positive note, we were told by one of the staff members that Dr. Mulligan is a man of faith and he prays before going into surgery. Mama had been praying for a Christian doctor, so this was an answer to prayer.

Mama will be going back up to UW Medical Center this Thursday for breathing tests and then return for surgery on Friday. We won't be given the time of surgery until Thursday afternoon, but they said our arrival time could be as early as 5:30am.

This news has been hard to hear, but God is forever faithful. In His Word, He promises never to leave us or forsake us. Therefore we are assured that He is always near, even in life's greatest storms. Please pray for peace for Mama, Daddy and our family as she is waiting for surgery. Of course surgery day we covet your prayers also.

Thank you for your continued love and prayers. We will keep you posted.

With love,
Carmen and family

October 27, 2009 Update

2009-10-27T20:18:00.000-07:00

Psalm 112: 7
"He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is secure, he will have no fear."

God is faithful.

Today we got bad news. It was rough, emotional, raw.
I got home and a friend shared this verse with me.
I had to share it with you because it is true.

Mom's heart and life is secure in Him.
NOTHING can happen that does not pass through His sovereign hand first.
While God does not create and afflict, we do live in this fallen, broken world and are not exempt from trials just because we love Him and follow Him.

The six month scans showed the nodule they first saw in June is still present and is now joined by another nodule a bit larger than the first one.

The next step is meeting with Dr. Mulligan, a lung surgeon. He will evaluate if he thinks he can surgically remove the nodules or not.

The Oncologist was out today, but will consult with the other Dr.'s
in determining if additional chemotherapy could be done or possibly radiation.

If it is chemo, it would be inpatient, as the sarcoma chemo Mom received the 6 previous times is not able to be administered to her again.

We really do not know anything beyond this. Once Mom sees Dr. Mulligan, we will have a better idea of her treatment plan. Until then, we wait, we pray, we encourage one another and we stay focused on the fact that God has secured Mom's heart. It is safe, and He is trustworthy.

Thank you for your prayers.

Kimberly and family

6 month check

2009-07-21T18:16:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone, Warren and I got back from Seattle today from having my 3 mo. checkup. I have been feeling so good, and my swelling has been down a lot more! We planned on having the CT scan and returning home after just a routine check. After 5 hours there, a scan, visits with 3 doctors and my surgeon, we found that a new nodule was found in my left lung. I have several others that showed up before, but they had not changed. I didn't have this one before. They plan to wait 3 months and recheck it for any changes. If it has then they think that they will need to do surgery. They said that sometimes they show up and then disappear, so we are hoping and praying for that. They seemed to think that the chemotherapy had arrested the other ones.
I have had one place that has still not entirely healed from the incision, and it is seeping. They put me on an antibiotic for two weeks again, and also took a culture.

I'm not worried, about the nodule or the infection, as God knows what he is doing. I know personally who is in control of everything! It did take me by surprise though, as I feel so good.
If you do think of me, would ask God to take away the infection, and the nodule? It's good to know that his mercy is new every morning!

I am so loving this beautiful weather! I love being able to take walks, plant flowers, eat outside, watch our grandkids play outside, and feel the wind blowing in my hair! (all 1 inch long)
I hope you have had a blessed summer, and loving everyday!

Love to you all, Ladeva

Happy 4th of July!

2009-07-09T18:43:00.001-07:00

Hi, I trust that you all had a good 4th of July! We had a wonderful day, with our friends, Sandy and Doug Macomber. Afterwards we came home and sat on our deck and watched the fireworks over Chehalis. We had 8 of our neighbors come over and watch with us, so it was fun and a warm night to be outside! We have to be very thankful that so far our country is free. We have only known freedom, and it is so easy to take it for granted. I couldn't help but think about our 4th last year! Warren and I watched from the hall of the U.W. hospital as the fire works were set off over Lake Union. It was a wonderful show, but I'm so glad to be home watching some home fireworks, and feeling free! It is so good to be home. I am still getting more stamina, and the swelling in my leg has not been as bad.

I will be going back to Seattle for my three month's check up on July 21st. They will take a CT scan on my chest, as that is where the sarcoma sometimes shows back up again. I do believe that I will have another good check up. I feel good, don't have any problem breathing and no coughing. I thank God every morning when I put my feet on the floor, that I can take care of myself now, and feel good.

Please continue to pray for my sister, Edna. She is still weak, and some days she is in a lot of pain. She also has a problem with her throat, so somethings are hard for her to eat. She still has staph infection in both elbows, so she cannot have a shot in her back to relieve her of pain, until that clears up. Thank you so much for praying for her. Our whole family appreciates it so much.
Brother, Dean is also having a lot of pain in his feet and knees, and would love to have you remember him in your prayers!

Now, a happy note before I end this. I have hair that is about a quarter of an inch!!! It is coming in curly, so I just wet it and go! That is a real blessing after losing my hair twice. I have put away my wigs, and only wear a hat on occasion. I'll bet I will never have a "bad hair day," from now on.

Please enjoy what's left of summer, they already have fall decorations in the stores! God bless you each one, My love, Ladeva

An update from Mom 5/31/09

2009-05-31T21:59:00.000-07:00

Hi, from Ladeva, Warren and family, I wanted to write a note, for you who still occasionally still check the blog. When we wrote last, my sister, Edna (Eddie) was going to rehab instead of going home. She is now at home, but is still having a struggle. They finally ruled out that the nasty infection she had was staph instead of MRSA but was still real serious in her weakened condition. She is at home now, having some good and bad days. She went back to her Dr. in Federal Way, and the infection is now in her other elbow. The autoimmune disease has somewhat constricted her esophagus, so she has to be very careful of what she eats, so she doesn't choke. Two of the visiting nurses have said that she is having irregular heart beats that needs to be checked out by a Cardiologist. She feels weak and shaky, but is so happy to be back home. Would you continue to pray for her, that she will get stronger, and that the Doctors will know how to treat her as she has so many things working against her. Right now, her breathing is better, and her mind is clear. There was 10 days in the hospital that she doesn't remember. Some days she has a lot of pain from the Rheumatoid Arthritis, and other days, she feels better. We are grateful for your prayers for her. I know that God is the only one who can help, whether it is through the Doctors finding the right medicine or procedures, but the bottom line is that God is in control. I pray that it would please him to heal and strengthen her.

Now, a praise to God, for a good report for me. I was checked over, and told to come back in 3 months. I got the port taken out, a week ago. The first time it was scheduled, I got a sore throat and had sinus problems, so it just postponed it a few weeks. It is now out and I am healing fine. I have been enjoying life so much, and especially during this wonderful weather we are having.
I am driving and enjoying that freedom! I travel every Tuesday, to Toledo to go to oil painting classes, which I enjoy very much.
We went to our granddaughter Paris's concert, grand daughter Sadie's preschool graduation. This week we will get to go to see Brittain at his concert. It is wonderful to have a part in supporting them in their activities.
I have really enjoyed spending time with family, and friends. I am helping some of my class mates from school, plan our class reunion in June. Getting to go back to Church on a regular basis, visiting my neighbors and planting a few flowers are just a few things that I celebrate getting to do again! I believe that all of the prayers on our behalf were heard by our Lord, and in His mercy He has given me a chance to really enjoy life again. I will never be able to say Thank you adequately, but I love you all.

I don't know how many of you still check in on the blog regularly, but I will try to write a note at least at the first of every month.
I want to wish you all a very happy, healthy, and "looking up" kind of summer! We send our love. God bless you each, Ladeva & Warren

Thank you for praying for Aunt Edna

2009-04-21T13:42:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to update you on Aunt Edna. (Mom's sister)

She is being discharged from Virginia Mason hospital today and taken to a rehabilitation center in Centralia where they will help her to strengthen her legs and be able to walk alone. After she is stronger she will be going back home.

Please pray that this will be a smooth and quick transitional move. She is anxious to be home and in her own bed and at her own home. We can all relate to that.

Thank you for praying for her. We appreciate you. (It seems weird to not be updating this blog daily anymore. )

Mom is having her PET scan at UWMC today. It is a 3 month check. They will see if they see any cancer cells anywhere else in her body. We are expecting a clean bill of health.

Mom is hoping to get scheduled for her port to be removed today. (Joining you in prayer over that Mom)

Will update you on the findings as we get them..

Thank you,
Kimberly

A prayer request from Mom

2009-04-15T10:56:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
We are hoping that someone may be watching the blog occasionally and offer up prayer for Mom's sister Edna.

Aunt Edna has been at Virginia Mason since last Thursday with the MRSA virus. This is considered a "super bug" and highly resistant to antibiotics.

She is very weak and is having breathing difficulty while also battling an auto immune diease and rhumatoid arthritis as well.

Please keep her in your prayers as well as her husband Dale and daughters Dayla, Darla and families.

We appreciate your prayer so much .

Thank you,
Kimberly

An update from Mom

2009-04-13T11:07:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since we updated the blog. Since finishing chemotherapy, I have been trying to build up my leg and my strength. I am so blessed to keep feeling better. I still have nerve pain in my leg and foot, but I have medicine that really helps with it. I have been having Bursitis in my shoulder and arm, but I know that it's not threatening and is getting better! Today, I had another answer to prayer! I went to a routine mammogram, and was called and told that something didn't look good and they wanted to redo it and also have an ultra sound. I had felt a sore spot, so I began to wonder what I would be facing. When Warren prayed for me before I went, he asked that the right person would be doing it for me. They came out and told me that they had decided to do the ultra sound first. The ultra sound showed my port that is still in place for giving the chemotherapy. Nothing else showed up, and was clear except for the port, so they didn't need to do another mammogram! The nurse encouraged me as I left, and I knew that the right person had done the testing. She reached in her pocket, and placed a coin in my hand. She asked," what is the smallest denomination of money? I said, that it was a penny. She then said, "what does it say on the coin?" I said, "In God We Trust!" She said, "keep this shiny penny in your pocket, as a reminder that your trust is in God! She had never seen me before, and I appreciated that she took the time to encourage me with that!

I am taking physical therapy in a pool in Centralia. The first time I went to physical therapy, I couldn't say any good word for it. It was like going to a torture chamber! I can't say enough good about this one! It is Providence Physical Therapy. The water is real warm, and I can exercise and stretch my leg without so much pain, and I am making progress. I love working with all the different ladies there. They are all very kind, and encouraging as well. I feel so blessed to have been directed there. It has really helped my arm as well.

I am so happy that I can again begin my oil painting. I have so much to learn, and I am learning a new technique right now. I have a friend who is driving down with me to Toledo each Tuesday for the classes. I so look forward to going.

I go back to Seattle for my three month check up on the 21st. I would like to ask for your prayers for a good report. I think it is going to be a good one, and I'm hoping that they tell me that my port can be taken out. I will let you know after the 21st.

I hope that you are looking forward to Easter as we are. Easter and Christmas are my favorite holidays. Christmas because God gave us the gift of his son. Easter because Jesus fulfilled what God wanted him to do on our behalf. God raised him to life again paving the way for us who believe in him to also pass from this life to life with him and to live forever with him! We who have that faith, live a rich life realizing how much he loves us. We don't have to fear death, as we have only his love to look forward to. So, I hope that you had a wonderful Easter. I will forever be grateful for you for your prayers, love and encouragement. Ladeva, Warren, and family

Test reports back

2009-02-12T11:23:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone,
Mom has asked me to update the blog with the latest information. The nurse from SCCA called yesterday afternoon to tell Mom that her red and white blood counts were in the normal and acceptable range. Also, at long last, her potassium is in the normal range. This is huge for her as it has been consistently very low for months now.

She is encouraged that she may well be on a slow rise up to getting her energy back. She is super exhausted all the time and is frustrated by her memory. She forgets things that she wants to do, or conversations she may have had. This is entirely normal we have been told, and could last up to a year. It is maddening to her, but we need to keep reminding her that is just what chemo does. Even though her hair will eventually start to grow back and her energy will eventually return, the neurological effects may take many months longer. So, in light of that, if she forgets to call you back, please understand the dynamic around it. :)

She is starting to feel like getting out of the house, but can really only do a few stops and then she needs to get home to rest. She can't walk all the way through the stores and needs to rest frequently, but with time that will turn around as well.

Mom asked me to thank you who stayed with her after her treatments, cleaned house, made meals, did their laundry and just kept her mind busy and her spirits up. Dad would not have been comfortable going to work without someone there everyday and you all blessed them beyond measure. Words cannot express their gratitude to you all, and Mom prays that one day she will be able to bless each of you in some way. She sends much love, appreciation and gratitude to the best friends and family in the world.

With a grateful heart,
Ladeva, Kimberly and family

February 2, 2009

2009-02-02T18:22:00.000-08:00

Mom has asked me to post this link on the blog.
She is strugging with some of the nastier side effects of the chemo and is very tired. Tired from chemo, and tired of feeling nasty. Today, this link was sent to her and it was so comforting and encouraging. If you need to be encouraged, loved, comforted or reminded of a constant love, please copy and paste the link into your browser and turn the volume on to listen. It has some beautiful music and is read aloud as well as the words being listed to read. Mom hopes it blesses you as you listen.

Kimberly

http://denimandlace.50megs.com/2006denimandlacesite/God%27s%20Love%20Letter/godloveletter.html

Praise God from Whom all blessings flow!

2009-01-25T11:56:00.000-08:00

It's done. Mom and Dad should be on their way home from Seattle as I am writing this.
The long and horrible road of chemotherapy is finally over and she has fought so hard during these last 6 treatments. But God is so good and so faithful to bring comfort, love, rest, peace and priceless friends and family to love on them.

Mom is completely wiped out. She is having a difficult time walking just a few feet before being completely replete of all energy. She is SO looking forward to her own shower and her own bed.
(As is Dad)

The next 10-14 days are long ones and full of feeling so weak that she can sometimes barely lift her arms to take a drink of tea. It will get better, it's just part of the aftermath of being, well, poisoned.

Please pray for them to be able to relax at home, sleep well, and recuperate with no nausea, mouth sores, or pain.

We again want to thank you for your love and support. It has made an unbearable journey full of blessings and unexpected treasures in you, their friends and family.

May God bless you for your kind words, cards of encouragement, calls, meals, Mommasitting, and your presence that brings joy and peace in times of trouble.

Over and over Mom has said she has the best friends in the world. She is right. You are all a blessing not just to Mom and Dad, but to us; her kids and grandkids as well.

We are forever grateful.

In His Love,
Kimberly and family

Saturday - Last night of chemo

2009-01-24T17:14:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Kim was up with Mama and Daddy. I so appreciate her. She takes such good care of both Mama and Daddy and is so patient with me calling in for updates. Our precious friends, Greg and Lucia, were also up to visit in the hospital yesterday. They brought a special blessing from our church family. It was a sweet surprise for my parents. Greg, Lucia and our whole church family have been so supportive. There are not enough words to express our gratitude. We love you guys!

Mama will be finishing her last round of chemo late tonight. Followed by an 8 hour IV flush. So this means she will be coming home tomorrow. Her headache is gone, but is having some bouts with nausea. They are trying to stay on top of the anti-nausea medications to keep it under control. Troy, Maria and the kids were up visiting today. Mama is really weak and tired, so she had to take a few naps while they were there. But she said the little ones were very well behaved while being couped up in her room for so long. Those babies are good medicine any ole day and they helped to lift to her spirits.

Monday, Daddy will take Mama to Lacey to get her Neulasta shot and then she will be able to rest at home and start her road to recovery. Her immune system has took quite the hit, so it will be a little while before she will start regaining her strength.

Thank you to everyone who has faithfully prayed for Mama during this last dreaded chemo. We appreciate each prayer. Thank you also for your calls, blog postings and cards of encouragement. We are so blessed to have you in our lives.

With love,
Carmen

A new hairdo.

2009-01-22T09:44:00.000-08:00

Well it's Thursday morning and I thought I would just update you on Mom's last few days.
She came up on Tuesday and was having some difficulty with her hair falling out from the last round of chemo. Her hair had grown out to about 1 1/2" all over and had come back in dark and wavy.

It was really frustrating for her though as it was starting to rapidly fall out and she was getting hair all over her clothes and hats. One of the things that happens is that as the hair comes out the scalp becomes very tender. When she would lay her head back on the pillow it would be very tender and uncomfortable from the hair that is still there and it feels like it's poking her tender scalp.

Yesterday Mom had a sweet nurse named Lea. She is a breast cancer survivor and has been through chemo and hair loss. She was really sweet and understanding and offered to shave Mom's hair for her. Even though it is sad to lose her hair, she felt so much better to lay her head back on her pillow and be able to relax without discomfort.

Last night was a complete joke as far as sleeping is concerned. From the pumps screaming all night, new meds coming at midnight, 1:00 am, 4:30 and numerous other interruptions she got sporadic, light sleep. I'm hoping she can catch some sleep today.

We are grateful however that she does not have any uncontrolled nausea and is just battling a persistent headache.

Will keep you updated as we continue the countdown to discharge.

Much love and gratitude,
Kimberly and family

Abundant Blessings

2009-01-20T16:50:00.000-08:00

Thank you for all your prayers. We are feeling them and seeing them answered before our eyes. Today has went remarkably well. I'd like to share our blessings big and small.

First of all, we had an easy drive all the way to Seattle. No hold ups, no problems...just smooth sailing.

Even though this next blessing may seem small, it was big to us. God gave us a parking place near the elevator at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance. With Daddy not being able to be with us, we couldn't be dropped off at the front and picked up again. (Forever the mom, she refused to let me park the car in the parking garage alone.) Mama's energy level is very low today, so this was a huge blessing.

Our last trip to SCCA, the person trying to access her port had ran into problems and had to ask for help from one of their several people which have lots of experience accessing the type of port Mama has. Unfortunately we didn't get her name to request her for today. As Mama & I were discussing how to request an "expert" without knowing a name, out walks the same gal that accessed her last time. Mama was able to talk with her and permission was given to be scheduled with her. Both sides of the port were accessed the FIRST time! That just doesn't happen for Mama! What a HUGE blessing and answer to prayer.

We normally have a long wait to see the doctors. However, this time, it was relatively short. They were pleased with the progress of her leg's healing.

SCCA worked Mama's CT Scan in to their schedule for an earlier time, so we were out of there about 2-3 hours earlier than expected. We didn't get the official reading of the scan, but they thought it looked good.

When we got her admitted to UW Medical Center, we found that one of our favorite nurses had signed up to have Mama. Jennifer, knowing Mama's schedule, had already anticipated her needs and had things ordered and ready.

Cots at UW are not always available, but this time we got one right away. It's so much better than the old chairs that make out into a bed. I use the word "bed" loosely. It will make the five night stay so much easier.

We are so thankful for this day of blessings. We got to UW Medical Center about 3pm and was settled in to by about 3:30pm. Mama didn't get any sleep last night so she was able to climb into bed and get several hours of sleep. Her energy level has come up with that little bit of sleep. Chemo will be started at 9:00 this evening. They expect her to be going home on Sunday and will be scheduling her Neulasta shot the following day closer to home again. Thank you Lord! To God be the glory.

With love,
Carmen and family

The sixth and final round.

2009-01-20T09:13:00.000-08:00

Today, inauguration day, is Mom's last day to be admitted for her 6th and final round of chemotherapy.

She starts at 9:00 am at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance to have her port accessed and blood drawn, then drives to UWMC to be admitted for the next 5-6 days.

We welcome your prayers and calls. It doesn't matter how many times she goes through this, it is still a scary thing to have poison pumped into your veins and know what will come next. She is however, brave and determined and loved by so many. She will be counting the days down and relying on the Lord as she has every other day of her life to get her through it.

We thank you for you love and support and count ourselves blessed to have you walk through this with Mom, Dad and our family.

With love,
Kimberly and family

Sat., January 17th

2009-01-17T23:33:00.000-08:00

Mama has been feeling pretty good, but gets tired very easily. Today was a fun day. We had a big family get-together with Mom's side of the family. We had a great time visiting with everyone. It was nice to see Mama enjoying herself visiting. However, I'm sure she is exhausted tonight.

Tuesday, we will be heading back to Seattle. Mama will be starting her final round of chemo. This time they plan to give her both kinds of chemos, so she will be in the hospital until Sunday or Monday. Hopefully the reduction in the dosage will make a difference in her not getting as sick and less mouth and throat sores. Since plans seem to be forever changing, I will give an update once we get settled in and know more.

We covet your prayers during this last round of chemo. I know she will be so thankful to get this behind her. Thank you for your continued love, support and prayers.

With love,
Carmen and family

Headlights heading south!

2009-01-02T21:56:00.000-08:00

It's 10PM on Friday and Mom, Dad and Carmen are about 30 minutes from home!!

They left UWMC about 8:30 After finishing up and getting her port de-accessed.

She gets her shot tomorrow in Lacey, NOT Seattle!!

We are so grateful that the man giving her the shot is coming in on his day off to administer it for her tomorrow at 11:00. Thank you all for praying for her in these last 4 days! You are each one a blessing to us.

Mom is exhausted. The chemo just zaps her energy so we expect she will take numerous naps in the next weeks to come.

So grateful for you prayer and support.
Kimberly and family

Some test results are in.........

2009-01-02T00:05:00.000-08:00

First of all I apologize for this taking so long to update.

Here's the latest on Mom.

As you know, there was a lot of concern over Mom's low potassium levels and concern that one of the chemo drugs was responsible for kidney damage. The nephrology team came to see Mom yesterday and run some tests, took a thorough history and a physical exam. She also had a full body bone scan for pain in her right shoulder. This round, she did not receive the chemo drug that would be the culprit. If all the tests come back showing no kidney damage, she will have both of the chemo drugs at her next infusion in 3 weeks.

Since sarcoma is typically found in the extremeties and trunk it was making Mom a little nervous that she had this persistent pain in her right shoulder. The bone scan was a blessing as it showed no tumor or cancer in her bones, but it did reveal two degenerative discs in Mom's lower back that were causing her some pain. She had thought that her back was out of place and that she just needed an adjustment. Now we know the rest of the story. The pain in her shoulder is assumed to be "over use" while she is using it to help her stand due to the "bum right leg". She still has a tender leg that doesn't want to bend too much so she pushes up with her right arm a lot. She will have physical therapy on it when she feels better.

The nephrology team will be doing an ultrasound to finally rule out kidney damage, but her potassium levels need to go up just a tad for them to do it tomorrow.

The last chemo bag was hung at around 9PM Thursday night and should be done around 9 PM Friday night. They will be discharged after that. An area we would like prayer for is in getting her immune boosting injection. They will not give it to her at the hospital and insurance says it has to be the next day after discharge. So, the best case scenario woud be that mom gets to go home and get the shot in Lewis County at the Cancer treatment center there. If she can't, she will have to arrive home after midnight and then return to Seattle the next day just for a quick injection.

The chemo is really kicking in so she is feeling super exhausted and food is tasting horrible again. Other than that, the nausea is not full force just yet and she is just really anxious to be home again.

Thank you for calling, emailing, posting corresponding and mostly, praying.

With love and appreciation,
Kimberly and family

Round 5 of chemo.

2008-12-30T14:06:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, December 30, 2:15 PM

I just spoke with Carmen who is with Mom and Dad at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.
Mom had an appointment there first to access her port, draw blood for lab tests prior to chemo, and to see her Oncologist.

The port access was not as swift as last time and there was some confusion over the length of needle being used, but in the end they were both accessed, though not pain free. :(

Up to the exam room they went and were met by the Dr. There they found out that Mom's potassium levels were too low again. This is a puzzling issue for them as Mom is not on any medication that would make her potassium low. They are concerned that there might be some kidney damage due to the strong chemo meds used. In addition, Mom's leg at the surgical site, is still a little warm so they have decided to continue her regimen of antibiotics while she is in the hospital.

The ray of sunshine she received is that since they are concerned about her kidneys, they have decided to not use one of the two chemo drugs on her this round until they are certain it is not causing irrepairable damage. This will reduce her stay from a 5day stay to a 3 day stay, so she may be home this weekend. They are reducing it again by just 5%, but we do hope it will be enough to eliminate the mucusitis- mouth and throat sores that have plagued her each time previously.

While she is in the hospital they will send in some renal specialists to better assess her kidneys for any permanent damage. This is an area we would appreciate your prayers.

I know it is always hard to go back to the hospital knowing what she is facing, but she, as usual, is keeping a stiff upper lip and a smile on her little sweet face.
(so Carmen tells me:)

They will ring in the new year at UWMC, but we are hopeful that 2009 will continue to be full of God's blessings, love and protection.

May God bless you all as well in 2009.

Thank you for reading this blog and praying for our Mom and Dad.
We appreciate you all.

Kimberly and family

Long overdue update

2008-12-21T11:41:00.000-08:00

I realize it has been quite some time since we have updated the blog. I know many of you check regularly to see how Mama is doing. I'm sorry it has been so long. Mama is doing pretty well. Her healing from the surgery is going a lot slower than she would like, but we were told it would be slower due to her chemo and radiation treatments. Leg swelling and stiffness is one of the main things she battles with. Physical therapy has been working with her to reduce the swelling and improve her circulation. We are hoping the stiffness will get better as the swelling gets better. She has some occasional nerve pain, but is trying to control it with medication.

Mama had an appointment on the 16th to have her port flushed and to have blood draws. Due to so many port problems and pain associated with accessing it, she was really dreading the appointment. Praise God! The appointment went well. There were no problems accessing the port this time and there was minimal pain. Her leg was starting to get infected at the incision site, so they started her back on antibiotics. Hopefully that will be cleared up before she has to return for chemo. She goes back on the 30th for her 5th round of chemo. We will first be taking her to Seattle Cancer Care to have her port accessed and to meet with doctors before being admitted into UW Medical Center. This time we will be requesting the same young gal to access her port that took care of her on the 16th.

We are very thankful that Mama is able to be home for Christmas and feeling relatively well. She is of course not looking forward to starting chemo on the 30th, being sick and losing her hair all over again, but she is thankful for the time she has been given. She is a women of great faith and love for the Lord. I've heard her tell the Lord she didn't want to go through this again, but if it was part of His will for her to do chemo again, she is willing to do it for Him. She has asked God to use it for His glory. I feel so blessed that she is my mom.

When I think about the fact that Sarcoma cancer does not always respond to chemo, I am reminded how blessed we are that Mama's treatment has been so successful. I don't seem to run out to tears of thankfulness to God. God's hand has truly been upon her. I realize that God's healing is not always on this earth, so I am forever grateful to God for her healing and continued presence in my life.

This year has been a rough year on so many levels. God promises to never leave us or forsake us. Even in the midst of the turmoil and pain, He has been and continues to be near. God has used many of you to show our family His love and comfort. Thank you.

Since this blog will probably not be updated until Mama goes back on the 30th, I would like to wish all our family and friends a Merry Christmas. We are so thankful for each of you and for the many prayers on our behalf. May God pour out His blessings upon you this Christmas and always.

With love,
Carmen and family

A plan of attack!

2008-12-03T16:32:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was the day we met with Mom's entourage of Dr.'s at Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.

The outcome was much as we expected with a few new items.

Her leg is healing where the tumor was removed, but her surgeon would like a little more time between the surgery and the next round of chemo. He also was a bit concerned that her knee was getting a little stiff from the swelling and constant elevation without much movement.
He has ordered a CPM machine which is what you use after a knee replacement is done. You set your leg in it and it slowly moves and bends the leg and knee for you continually. She will use this for the next two weeks and try to loosen the knee a bit.

She goes back in two weeks to see them again and have her port accessed and flushed.

She will then go back on December 30th after she has enjoyed Christmas to start round 5 of her chemotherapy treatment. She will be in for the 5-6 days as before and after she is released the first week of January, will be back on the 21 day cycle before returning for round 6.

The other good news is that they have decided to cut back on one of the chemo drugs a bit more this time in hopes of minimizing the mucusitis that she has had after each round previously. This is a big praise as the mucusitis always lands her in the hospital for an additional 3 - 6 days. She gets horrible sores in her mouth and down her throat and is unable to even swallow her own saliva.

All in all, it looks like she should be done by the first week of February.

Mom is really hoping to take a trip to see some of her faithful family fans in February, but it may need to be pushed back a bit so she feels well enough to travel.

That is the plan as of now. She is still experiencing some pain from the nerve that was severed during surgery and is trying to find the right combination of meds to help the pain.

For now, she is home and enjoying her Christmas tree, decorations, friends and family.

We thank you for your prayers and love of her and Dad. We probably won't have anything new to post until after her visit in two weeks.

With love,
Kimberly and family

Revelation day.

2008-11-18T15:44:00.001-08:00

Carmen just called from the road. She, Dad and Mom are just leaving Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.
Mom got the drainage tube taken out of her leg today and was administered an ultra sound test due to some recent swelling. They wanted to rule out a blood clot and fortunately, none was found.
The pathology report was the cleanest the Dr. has seen post chemo and radiation and he was very pleased, however he and the oncologist have decided that for the best possible long term outcome and for future insurance, that it is in Mom's best interest to undergo two additional rounds of chemotherapy. This was not what we were hoping would happen, but Mom is trying to think positive about it and just put one foot in front of the other.
She will return on December 2nd to meet with the oncologist and orthopedic surgeon's and find out what the schedule will consist of.
Dad's birthday is on the 10th of December, so if the Dr.'s will allow the delay,we are hoping for a December 11th start date. Whatever is in Mom's best interest however, will be the determing factor for choosing the start dates, and they will be of the Dr.'s choosing.
We thank you for praying for Mom. The Dr.'s felt that she had responded so well in the last two rounds that this is the route best for Mom. This will make for a tough Christmas season, so we would ask you to pray for an extra measure of God's grace at this time for her and Dad both.

Will keep you posted as we get additional information.,

With much love,
Kimberly and family

2 Chronicles 20 :21b

2008-11-12T10:52:00.000-08:00

"Praise the Lord, for His mercy endures forever." 2 Chronicles 20:21b

Do you ever have days like that when you just don't have words, but your heart is bubbling over in gratitude? I have. I am.

To say that the last year has been hard is an understatement. Watching someone you love so much, go through such pain is agonizing.

Watching them come through it and see such strength and dignity is inspiring.
Knowing that it is because of God's unending love for Mom is just too much to try to articulate.

His mercy does not always mean "rescue" in the sense we want it to. Sometimes it takes on other forms such as friends, medicine, love, sacrafice, a card, a call, an encouraging talk, a benefit, cleaning a house, bringing dinner, lunch, taking some one to the Dr., administering medication, sitting with someone while they sleep, posting a message on the blog, taking their spouse to coffee to talk,crying with them, holding them, praying for them and so much more in the midst of the trial ahead of them.

So many of you have been the merciful hands and feet of Christ right here in Chehalis WA.

We thank you and on this dreary day I want to add some sunshine and a ray of hope and a burst of praise to the one that made Mom.

Mom spoke with the radiologist and was told that no sarcoma cancer cells were found in the biopsied tumor removed from Mom's leg. No cancer cells. None.

While she still has to have the drain tube removed on Friday, and she meets the Orthopeidic surgeon on Tuesday, we feel encouraged that it just might be the end of chemotherapy and other treatment.

So today, after a few days of tears of joy and gratitude:
"Praise the Lord, for His mercy endures forever."

With a grateful heart to all of you who love Mom and Dad,
Kimberly and family

A good day!

2008-11-01T16:35:00.000-07:00

Well. I called Carmen and got a thorough update, but won't put every detail here, just as much as I can.

The staff was super, and got a cot and the pull out bed in Mom's room so Carmen did not have to sleep in the waiting room last night. She and Dad stayed righ there with her.
She did really well and slept in two hour blocks. They were keeping her iv drips going and so she was up throughout the night. Carmen said with each time out of bed, she could see Mom getting stronger. She got a blood transfusion yesterday, so I am sure that helped her as well.

Dr. Conrad was in this morning. He told her after the surgery on Thursday that the surgery was really a tough one and that "You owe me a coke!" He came in during rounds today and she handed him a coke. He thanked her and said he just may have it for breakfast. :)

She is doing really well and the iv pole is no longer connected to her. She is taking all meds by mouth now. Dr. Conrad wants to keep her until Wednesday or Thursday because there is such a big hole in her leg and it is still draining a lot. He wants to keep a close eye on her and monitor her for infection, so we would appreciate your prayers of protection in that area.

She is still having physical therapy a couple times a day in addition to getting up a lot, so she is moving around. This is night and day different from her biopsy, and eventual "wash out".
While she still has pain, burning behind her knee and nerve spasms that put her over the edge, she is balancing it with meds and ice. With the other two procedures, she was still in horrible pain just getting to the edge of the bed. We are so grateful to see this difference for her.

Troy, Maria, Sadie and Nate are up visiting today. I could hear the kiddos in the background and know that Mom is in her "happy place". There is nothing like her grandkids to give her joy.

Please continue to pray for her to feel well as she continues to meet people. She definately has a gift of encouragement to share and has been such an encouragement to people here in her love for the Lord.

(You are an encouragemnt to me as well Mom. What an example you are to your kids. We love you.)

So, 4 -5 more days, but she is doing well and gaining strength every day.

Love to you all and thank you again for your posts to her and calls. They make her day.

Love,
Kimberly and family

Out of recovery.

2008-10-30T19:42:00.000-07:00

Ok, so Mom is in her room and out of recovery.
She got into her room about 6:00 PM. She was hurting from being moved around from transfer table to bed. We are back on the 6th floor where they all love Mom.

They had originally put Mom in a room at the end of a hall. There is a nursing assistant that we have had almost every time we come in. Her name is Amminy. The first day we met her she told us she is East Indian and does NOT like her name. Mom asked her what name she would like instead and she answered "Shirley". So, we have called her Shirley since April. So, Shirley comes into Mom's room while she is still in recovery and says " I have a BETTER room for your Mom. She loves the view rooms and I have saved the best one for her". We packed her belongings down to the new room and got her stuff all put away. While she was helping us unload, she said " You know, every nurse on this floor wants to take care of your Mom. We all love her here. They have been calling down to recovery checking on her all afternoon."
Then, Carmen goes out to tell our nurse something and 2-3 nurses stopped her in the hall to tell Carmen how excited they were Mom was here. They were even doing the "happy dance"! How awesome is that?

You cannot imagine how wonderful it was in that moment to know that she has touched so many people over the last 6 months up here at the hospital. The nurses have stopped in to say hello and show pictures of their kids to her. They are posturing to get her as a patient. She touches people in a way that you can't imagine unless you witness it for yourself. They are letting us know what shift they are working on which day so they can have her. It is too cute!

So right now, 8:00 PM, she is dozing off and her pain level is at a 2 out of 10 (10 being the worst pain) It has been an excruciatingly long day and she only slept an hour last night so I am hoping she will be able to sleep here and there.

Thank you for your prayers of support and love.
We are so thankful to the Lord tonight. The outcome was as good as we could have hoped for and God really directed Dr. Conrad's hands as well as the physiology of her recovery.

We give Him all the praise for her outcome. God is good all the time.

With a happy heart,
Kimberly and family

That tumor is OUTTA THERE.........

2008-10-30T14:23:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
We are writing from the hospital this afternoon.
It's about 3:30 and Mom is still in recovery.

She arrived at 5:00 AM with Dad and Carmen. I didn't get here until a little after 6:00 and she was in pre op so I could not see her. Her scheduled surgery time was 7:20 AM. The surgery was supposed to be around 2 hours. At about 11:30 a Dr. that assisted in Mom's surgery came out to talk to us.

He said that the surgery had gone well and that they had gotten the tumor out entirely. They had been quite concerned about the artery that was attached and he said they were able to "peel it away from the artery". He said it was a complicated and long surgery, but that the artery was intact, there was not a lot of bleeding and no blood transfusion was needed. He also said that there was a nerve that ran down her leg to her foot that the tumor had grown around. The nerve was running through the center of the tumor. They did have to sever it during surgery, but feel that it will just cause loss of feeling, numbness, tingling etc and not hamper any of her mobility. This nerve has been the culprit of a lot of pain, and numbness throughout the last year, so having it severed may not cause much more irritation than it does now. We were told that she was in recovery so we decided to go get something to eat before she came up to the room.

We were just about to the cafeteria, when we ran right into Dr. Conrad, her surgeon. He stopped to tell us a few more details about the surgery. He said that it was really a difficult surgery. He also said that she did really well and was pleased with the outcome. He then went on to say that he did not believe he had had another patient who had been given as much chemotherapy as Mom had been given pre operatively, but that he believed it just may have "cured her"! (his words)

The pathology report won't be back for 7-10 days, so we won't know 100% until then if she will need additional chemotherapy or not. The way Dr. Conrad spoke though, gave us hope that she may be done with chemotherapy.

She was supposed to be up in the next hour or so and we came to her room. After waiting several more hours, we have been told that she is still in recovery because her respiratory rate is low. It is at an 8, and they look for 12-20 to be in the normal range. She usually does this after surgery, when she is on pain medication. They were going to monitor her until that gets leveled out. Dad is down in the waiting room on that floor now after a very brief visit with her.

The surgeon's will be in to see her Saturday morning so Mom should be feeling well enough to ask any questions she may have.

Until then, we thank you for your prayers and ask that you continue praying for her as they try to regulate her pain level. Dad says she is alert but in pain and pretty uncomfortable. They have backed her off of pain meds due to her slow respiratory rate. This is a hard dance to watch. Keep her breathing at a level rate, yet she is in pain, or keep her out of pain, but have her respiration drop.

Thank you in advance for your prayer and concern.

Kimberly and family

Details of tomorrow's surgery.

2008-10-29T15:55:00.000-07:00

Mom and Dad went to Seattle on Monday and Mom had all her scans done for pre-op. She then had appointments on Tuesday with her Orthopedic surgeon that will be removing the tumor and followed that up with blood work.

She has to be at the hospital at 6:00 AM tomorrow (Thursday)and is scheduled for a surgery time of 7:30. They have told her she will be there 5-7 days.

The Scans done Monday show that the tumor has separated from the bone, which is good news, but is still touching, connected, or intertwined with an artery. (I am unclear on the specific verbiage so I am trying to relate it as accurately as possible.)

This will make it a bit more complicated than we would have liked, but we have confidence that all will go well. They will also be removing skin on her leg that is dead from the radiation and will not recover, so we are not sure how that will end up, if it will add to discomfort, or not affect her in the least.

Mom had some concerns about infection post op, since she got infected after the biopsy. One of the Dr.'s explained that the tumor (pre chemo and radiation) was filled with old blood and fluid and that when the biopsy was done there was a lot of bleeding.(We had been told this right after the biopsy so it was no surprise)She went on to say that when this happens, the blood leaks into the surrounding tissue. While they do the best they can to remove it,anything left behind can cause infection. Since the tumor has shrunk and is now dark and dead looking, they do not feel that is going to be the same level of risk as before. There is the risk of the artery involvement,so we do want to ask you to pray for skill and precision in Dr. Conrad's hands. Please continue to pray for peace for Mom as she will have her port accessed again and is not scared, but apprehensive about another surgery. I would like to ask you to remember Dad as well. Hospitals still have an effect on him that is unnerving and he will be anxious during surgery. Please pray for his peace of mind and that Carmen and I will be able to be a comfort and calming to him.

This time Carmen will be taking the lion's share of staying up at UWMC, so I would ask for prayer for her that she might get rest in a chaotic environment. Only one person stays in the room and the other sleeps in the waiting room. A hospital never sleeps. :)

We appreciate your prayers so much and will update the blog after surgery to let you know how she does.

We love you.
Kimberly and family.

A new surgery date!

2008-10-23T18:15:00.001-07:00

Hi everyone,
Mom got a call today from the surgical staff and they are moving her surgery date up to next week the 30th of October. He surgeon is going to be out of town so they are rearranging his schedule.

Now, they want her up there on Monday for scans, and Tuesday to meet with Dr.Conrad, with surgery on Thursday. They have decided to just stay up there Monday night and not do the three trips up and back before the surgery. Hopefully this will make it a little easier on them both before the 5 day post op stay.

As always, we would covet your prayers as she goes into another unpleasant phase of this treatment. We should know after the surgery if she will be needing two additional rounds of chemotherapy.

Mom is doing well and getting along fairly well as her leg feels better and the skin is not so hyper sensitive anymore. She still needs to take it easy though and not be up walking around as it causes her leg to swell from upper thigh to ankle and foot.

This last couple weeks have been a treat not having to go to daily radiation, but the trick was in getting her in sooner than she was prepared for. Fortunately, she will have an extra week to heal before the holidays.

We continue to thank you and appreciate your love and support for Mom. She is truly an encouragement to me and so many others as she has such a positive attitude and heart of gratitude to the Lord and each of you.

With love,
Kimberly and family

A message from Mom

2008-10-17T16:13:00.000-07:00

For those of you faithfully checking the blog and praying for me, I thank you so much.

Today has been my best day for a long time. My leg is healing now from the radiation, and I was pretty comfortable today! After the chemo regiments, I looked forward to radiation, then when my leg got so sore from that, I began to think that it will sure be nice to get the surgery over and get the tumor out finally!

My young friend, Kara Brown came today and asked if I wanted to go to town. I needed to run some errands and get groceries. We went to Walmart so I could get some things from the pharmacy also and make one stop. Kara has been through some of the same treatments that I have had also for the past year or more, so she is very understanding and caring. Anyway, she was such a blessing to me. God knew that I could use some help today, and while I could have asked someone, she just came. She had also rented a movie for us to watch.

The movie was "End Of The Spear." It is an older movie, and it is also a true story. When my brother Dean and wife, Elaine went to Bolivia to be missionaries, it wasn't long after that the 5 missionaries were killed in Ecuador. It's sad, and yet, God used the bad for good. I do remembering being so worried that Dean and Elaine might get killed. I remember hearing it on TV, radio and in the news paper. Anyway, It has an amazing ending.

With my having cancer, even though there has been a lot of things that I would call bad, I can see so much good that is coming from this. I have gained some new friends and have had a closer relationship with my old friends and family. All of you who check my blog, are part of the blessings, because you care enough to want to know how I am! Thank you, and I thank God for you.
My Love,
Ladeva

Radiating rest.

2008-10-08T13:44:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
Well, the rumors are true.
Mom is done with radiation as of last Thursday

Mom,Dad,Carmen and I, all went to Seattle Cancer Care Alliance yesterday (Tuesday) to see Dr. Conrad (Mom's orthopedic surgeon that will be removing the tumor) and Dr.Kelly (her radiation Dr. at SCCA). Her leg is really angry and is looking like someone poured a kettle full of boiling water over and around the top and backside of her thigh. The pain has intensified and walking is not fun as it touches and rubs against clothing and is so very tender. Dr.Kelly felt like the treatment went well and was pleased with the progress, yet not so pleased with Mom. SOMEHOW,(and I'm not saying exactly how it got out)it was communicated that Mom was not simply lying around "eating chocolates and watching movies" as Dr. Kelly had ordered her to do. Mom feels that when she isn't absolutely miserable, that her days need to be filled with her being "productive". Those of you who know her well, can attest to this. Dad, sat grinning and thanking the Dr. for the scolding Mom so deservedly received.

So, this is the Dr.'s orders to anyone who may go see Mom, or hear from Mom.
(because let's face it, she won't tell you these things)Sorry Mom, but you know I'm telling the truth.

Her job is to rest and keep her leg up and unclothed. Her leg is to be getting air and resting. She wants her to be eating chocolate and watching movies, and napping. Period. (I REALLY LIKED THIS DR.)

She reminded Mom that she actually has cancer and has been through a huge ordeal just thus far. She reminded her that radiation, let alone chemo, will take it out of her completely. She reminded her that she only has a month before she has another surgery coming up and that she will need every ounce of energy she has to heal from that. She reminded Mom that there is also the possibility that she will need two more rounds of chemo after the surgery and she needs to let her body spend it's energy on rebuilding her stamina.

I know it's hard for Mom to do, but if we don't stay on top of her she will try to conquer the world. They stopped on the way home and got some good movies and they stopped and picked up some RX'd chocolates as well. :) You know, Dr.'s orders and all.

Her surgery is scheduled for Thursday November the 6th in Seattle at UWMC.
She will have her pre op visit on Tuesday the 4th for scans and blood work etc.

We thank you all for your love and prayers for her. The Dr. that administered the radiation said the pain would be the worst for the next 7 -10 days. She got some additional pain killers so hopefully she will be more comfortable shortly.

Thank you for checking the blog so faithfully.
There may not be a lot to update over the next month, but we will try our best to get you news when it occurs. Feel free to call her as she's just going to be sitting at home healing. Right Mom?!

God bless~
Kimberly and family

Last week to go!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-09-29T16:00:00.000-07:00

Mom has three more treatments left and will have a full month off before the surgery.
This will be the longest string of days without treatment she has had since April 15th! Yeah!! Her leg is hurting and she is most uncomfortable with jeans or pants on. She is keeping it bandaged and away from her clothing to make it so the burned area does not rub against anything and get irritated.

Mom has asked me to post a prayer request for her sister Edna. She has had decreased lung capacity, and her muscles are not responding so she is needing some help to move as she has lost the use of her arms and legs. Her enzyme level is way off and they are waiting for results from a muscle biopsy test to determine the cause.
She is on strong doses of prednisone and today seems encouraged that she was able to stand for a little while.
We would appreciate your prayers for her recovery,comfort, and wisdom for the Dr.'s as well.

We are grateful for the blog to communicate with you all.

With love,
Kimberly and family

Marathon Maria!

2008-09-26T18:04:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone,
I am proud to tell you that after two laps around the block I have decided that marathon's can't be THAT hard so I am going to join Maria when she runs her first marathon on October 5th in Portland Ore.

Ok, so , Brian just told me that a marathon is 26.2 miles, not laps, so she's on her own.

Maria, is Troy's beautiful wife and Ladeva's one and only daughter in law.
She is excited to be able to raise some money for Mom's benefit through her labor of love and we thank her.

Below is a message form Maria. You may need to copy and paste the website into your address bar to connect to the link as I am not having luck making it connect from the blog. If you would like to learn more about the event go to that website for additional information.

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend.
Kimberly and family

Hi Friends & Family,

I am running a marathon in hopes of raising money for this very important cause. I am asking you to help by making a contribution.

My deepest thanks to everyone that has already donated to Ladeva. If you were unable to donate and would like an opportunity to do so, please tell your friends and family that may want an opportunity to bless her!

Please use this link to access my donation website - http://www.active.com/donate/ladevadahlin

Your donation can be made online quickly & securely. You will receive email confirmation of your donation and I will be notified as soon as you make your donation.

I thank you in advance for your support, and really appreciate your generosity!!

-Maria & Troy Dahlin