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
Saturday, December 26, 2009
Monday, December 21, 2009
December 21, 2009
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
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
Monday, December 14, 2009
A Message from Mom 12/14/09
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
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
Monday, November 23, 2009
Dr, appointment results
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
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
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Update on Mom Sunday November 22, 2009
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
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, November 17, 2009
Tuesday 11/17/09
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
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
Sunday November 15 2009
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
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
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Recovering at Home
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
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, November 11, 2009
Wednesday Nov. 11, 2009 update
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
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!
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
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, November 10, 2009
Tuesday trials
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
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, November 9, 2009
Monday evening update
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
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
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
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
Saturday, November 7, 2009
One day post op 11/07/09
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
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
Friday, November 6, 2009
Out of surgery 11-6-09
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
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
Monday, November 2, 2009
Lung surgery scheduled for Friday
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
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
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
October 27, 2009 Update
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
"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
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
6 month check
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
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
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Happy 4th of July!
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
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
Sunday, May 31, 2009
An update from Mom 5/31/09
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
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
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Thank you for praying for Aunt Edna
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
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
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
A prayer request from Mom
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
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
Monday, April 13, 2009
An update from Mom
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
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
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Test reports back
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
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
Monday, February 2, 2009
February 2, 2009
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
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
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Praise God from Whom all blessings flow!
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
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, January 24, 2009
Saturday - Last night of chemo
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
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
Thursday, January 22, 2009
A new hairdo.
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
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
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Abundant Blessings
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
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.
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
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
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Sat., January 17th
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
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
Friday, January 2, 2009
Headlights heading south!
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
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.........
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
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
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