It drives me crazy when the kids ask me how long items take in the microwave. It isn't an exact science, it is more of of method. Ya know, heat till desired temp! Yes, there is a 'popcorn' and 'hot water' button (along with a lot of other ones I don't use), but if there isn't a button with a picture of leftover spaghett, so they are lost! I am trying to teach at least the big kids anyway, put it in, choose a small amount of time, if it is still cold, cook it longer and if it is too hot, wait a little before you eat it. It takes working with food and that specific mircowave to get the timing perfect.
Mom's pain meds seem to be the same way. Dad said she slept well last night and did amazing this morning! She picked her own clothes, dressed herself, put on makeup and fixed her hair - ALL ON HER OWN! Yes, that was the part that made me sad to know she couldn't do. Dad fixed her breakfast, and she ate it all. During breakfast, she said she needed some of the immediate pain relief medication. Dad gave it to her and then she kinda went back into that slow and confussed state. The next time she needs the imediate relief, he is going to give her I think the Tylenol 3, what she had at the very beginnig to see if that takes the edge off enough, but not to dope her up. This is also part of the game, finding the perfect amount of pain meds - enough to control the pain, but not too much to make her loopy.
Also, prunes are helping her and their "go power" is doing it's job. Hopefully that will help her to not have too much pressure in her tummy and not have to get up so many times at night.
I guess posting a comment continues to be challanging AND Grandma Brinkman was Betty Stewart's grandmother. Betty would like the recipe for her grandma's buns. She didn't get it before she passed away. I'll try to remember that when I am there this weekend. I'll be sure to make the special side note of 'add flour till you sneeze.'
I am looking forward to going to Indiana tomorrow and Saturday.
Good night.
Thursday, January 31, 2013
comment
Can a few people please try to comment on a post? I went into "settings" and changed something. Maybe it will be easier to post a comment now. If not, I will check a few boxes that I don't know what they mean to see if that makes a difference too. :-) Thanks!
A Bun in the Oven
Those of that know my mom well know that she is an amazing baker! I know this sounds silly, but growing up, it was a treat for us to have "bought" bread. Well, that was before my mom started working, anyway. She would bake bread, pies, cookies, but the closest to her know it was her "Mema Buns" that she was famous for. It doesn't get much better than f fresh Mema Bun right out of the oven! She has recipes from close friends and she doesn't stray. I think her cinnamon roll recipe was from Alberta Wood, and her bun recipe was from Mrs. Brinkman? I am not sure who that is, I know that my Aunt Marilyn had friends, the Brinkmans, in Illinois, but I want to say for some reason, this famous Mema Bun recipe was from maybe the Stewart's in McDonald? Hmm...I'll have to do further research. She has been perfecting cookie recipes for weddings for years and makes notes on them so she remembers exactly what made them just a bit better. Her cinnamon rolls melt in your mouth. I remember her making them ahead and freezing them too. When we were little and would have a big snow fall, the Lazor Brothers would sometimes plow out our driveway too. Gary liked being paid with Gingie's Cinnamon Rolls. Becky has been making them! Amazing! I have never tried them. Jeannie has made the buns successfully. Mom came over one day to show me how to make the Mema buns. She doesn't have an "exact" recipe, I believe it says something like, "add flour unit it looks right." Really? What does THAT mean? So, she started ...1/2 cup by 1/2 cup adding the flour. Then she sneezed. I remember her saying, "oh - that's how I know I have enough flour. I always sneeze at this point." Great! So, my recipe reads, "add flour until mom sneezes?" I think I did try to make them once on my own, but they turned out like hockey pucks! When I questioned her on it, and review what I did, she said, "well, sometimes the humidity can affect them too." I was done at that point. Measurements done by allergy levels and proper yeast activity by the outside temperature are things I just can't count on. I buy my bread at the store.
One of my dad's favorite expressions is "She has a bun in the oven." Jimmy's wife Becca currently is sporting this expresstion! They are due in September with #2. We are excited to have a new cousin and Penny will be a big sister! Mom is looking forward to the new baby. :-)
One of my dad's favorite expressions is "She has a bun in the oven." Jimmy's wife Becca currently is sporting this expresstion! They are due in September with #2. We are excited to have a new cousin and Penny will be a big sister! Mom is looking forward to the new baby. :-)
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
The Forgotten Song
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQX8YFceYhU
This is the song that I was referring to in the last post. I forgot to attach it!
Some good news is that some of the "body functioning" prayer request have been answered. :-) I am trying to avoid any kind of puns or jokes about it and trying to be respectful.
Please continue to pray for Dad as he needs rest. I am planning on going to Indiana Friday and staying over through Saturday. Maybe I could do the night shift for him.
Also, because of the blood clot, Dad will need to give mom a shot of Heparin 2x/day. Again, sometimes we get to do things that we didn't sign up for.
Thank you so much for the meals and cards. We love you.
This is the song that I was referring to in the last post. I forgot to attach it!
Some good news is that some of the "body functioning" prayer request have been answered. :-) I am trying to avoid any kind of puns or jokes about it and trying to be respectful.
Please continue to pray for Dad as he needs rest. I am planning on going to Indiana Friday and staying over through Saturday. Maybe I could do the night shift for him.
Also, because of the blood clot, Dad will need to give mom a shot of Heparin 2x/day. Again, sometimes we get to do things that we didn't sign up for.
Thank you so much for the meals and cards. We love you.
Nothing is Beyond You
It is crazy how little things can change your plans. There is a whole book, a black 3-ringed binder that sits on my parent's dining room table that has everything you would like to know and I assume everything you don't want to know, about her cancer treatments. A black binder is also carried to each appointment as it is the medication log and the daily journal. Again, everything that you would like to know and don't want to know are in that book.
Last night dad noticed swelling in mom's hands and feet. That was another thing that they were to call the doctor on ASAP if it happened. They called and he saw her first thing this morning before her radiation appt. They did do an ultrasound and found that there is a blood clot in her left arm - where the pic line is. This of course is very serious. The pick line will need to come out and dad is picking up a medication (we assume a blood thinner.) She does receive her chemo through the pic line, and she will not get chemo again for 6 more weeks. However, they do other necessary draws and injections through there, ie: blood work and she received the unit of blood that way yesterday. I am not sure of the status of a future line, or maybe they will just use her veins.
The doctor is also concerned about her "confusion." Although yesterday was a very "sleepy" day, Jeannie said that she was more alert and "in the know" then she had been for the past week. She was wanting to fall asleep while she was eating and Jeannie had to remind her to chew. She replied back, "oh thanks for telling me, I am just so tired." She hasn't responded appropriately like that since treatment started. He, Dr. Raminini, wants them to try and cut back the morphine. He doesn't want her in any pain, but he doesn't like how drugged she seems now either. He wants dad to try to NOT give the fast release pain med and to just stick with the extended release and see how that works for her.
Another thing that needs prayer for is that her body processes her food and waste properly. This has been a bit of an issue and really needs to function correctly.
Last night she was up 6 times through out the night. Dad has to get up with her too. So, he is VERY tired today. Please pray for rest for both of them.
Everyday I listen to a national christian radio station, KLOVE. It comes in out of Pittsburgh, but days like today, when it is rainy, it doesn't come in too well. I turned on WISH 99.7, "easy listening hits of yesterday and today." Well, after listening to Positive and Encouraging KLOVE all the time, WISH 99.7 seemed too hard for me! (I wasn't in the mood to hear, "Walking on Sunshine." I must be getting old.) I decided to just listen to some cd's so I opened up the player. Christmas music was still in there! UGH!! I turned it all off and went back the hall to finish getting ready. Quiet and alone thoughts started to fill my head, thoughts of fear and worry. "Ok - go back and put some music on to get your head where it should be!" I took out all the Christmas cd's and surprisingly enough, I found all the right jackets to match! I put some Christian music in, things I hadn't listened to in a while, and turned it up. Growing up, I loved Amy Grant. This is one of my favorite songs that today, again reminded me that "Nothing is Beyond You." I am so glad that my Abby Father, seeks me out! There is a picture in this video of an outstretched palm. Amazing. Again, giving me hope and security.
Last night dad noticed swelling in mom's hands and feet. That was another thing that they were to call the doctor on ASAP if it happened. They called and he saw her first thing this morning before her radiation appt. They did do an ultrasound and found that there is a blood clot in her left arm - where the pic line is. This of course is very serious. The pick line will need to come out and dad is picking up a medication (we assume a blood thinner.) She does receive her chemo through the pic line, and she will not get chemo again for 6 more weeks. However, they do other necessary draws and injections through there, ie: blood work and she received the unit of blood that way yesterday. I am not sure of the status of a future line, or maybe they will just use her veins.
The doctor is also concerned about her "confusion." Although yesterday was a very "sleepy" day, Jeannie said that she was more alert and "in the know" then she had been for the past week. She was wanting to fall asleep while she was eating and Jeannie had to remind her to chew. She replied back, "oh thanks for telling me, I am just so tired." She hasn't responded appropriately like that since treatment started. He, Dr. Raminini, wants them to try and cut back the morphine. He doesn't want her in any pain, but he doesn't like how drugged she seems now either. He wants dad to try to NOT give the fast release pain med and to just stick with the extended release and see how that works for her.
Another thing that needs prayer for is that her body processes her food and waste properly. This has been a bit of an issue and really needs to function correctly.
Last night she was up 6 times through out the night. Dad has to get up with her too. So, he is VERY tired today. Please pray for rest for both of them.
Everyday I listen to a national christian radio station, KLOVE. It comes in out of Pittsburgh, but days like today, when it is rainy, it doesn't come in too well. I turned on WISH 99.7, "easy listening hits of yesterday and today." Well, after listening to Positive and Encouraging KLOVE all the time, WISH 99.7 seemed too hard for me! (I wasn't in the mood to hear, "Walking on Sunshine." I must be getting old.) I decided to just listen to some cd's so I opened up the player. Christmas music was still in there! UGH!! I turned it all off and went back the hall to finish getting ready. Quiet and alone thoughts started to fill my head, thoughts of fear and worry. "Ok - go back and put some music on to get your head where it should be!" I took out all the Christmas cd's and surprisingly enough, I found all the right jackets to match! I put some Christian music in, things I hadn't listened to in a while, and turned it up. Growing up, I loved Amy Grant. This is one of my favorite songs that today, again reminded me that "Nothing is Beyond You." I am so glad that my Abby Father, seeks me out! There is a picture in this video of an outstretched palm. Amazing. Again, giving me hope and security.
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
Hairy Situation
Tuesday evening check in...
I talked to Dad tonight. Mom did receive the unit of blood today. Unfortunately, it didn't give her any more "pep" and actually she was more sleepy than usual. They had trouble getting food and drink into her. Please pray that she is alert enough that she can get the nourishment that her body needs to make everything function properly.
They did receive some good news, her blood cultures came back and it was indeed a false negative from the labs that were drawn the other day. She has NO blood infection or any other kind of infection. The doctor said they can stop the antibiotic.
My twins ask me daily how Mema is feeling and if she is getting any better. Today, I told David that she probably is going to be sick for several months before we notice she is getting better. He thought about that. When praying over dinner, Devon asked Jesus to please heal his Mema. I hear my cousins in Illinois' children now refer to them as "Aunt Mema and Uncle Papa." (Pretty sweet.)
They are still asking about her hair. David is especially sensitive and asks the most questions. I told them both that she may loose her hair. I was worried about his response, maybe some sadness and if he would lay awake at night like he sometimes does wondering about that. I should have known better...typical 8 yr old boy...((giggles in an evil kind of laugh)) "hee hee hee...Mema BALD! Hee Hee Hee..." Then Devon said, "maybe we could get her a can of that stuff we saw on the TV commercial. You just spray it on your bald head and your hair grows!"
And with that thought, I will tell you good night. We love you and are thankful for your prayers.
I talked to Dad tonight. Mom did receive the unit of blood today. Unfortunately, it didn't give her any more "pep" and actually she was more sleepy than usual. They had trouble getting food and drink into her. Please pray that she is alert enough that she can get the nourishment that her body needs to make everything function properly.
They did receive some good news, her blood cultures came back and it was indeed a false negative from the labs that were drawn the other day. She has NO blood infection or any other kind of infection. The doctor said they can stop the antibiotic.
My twins ask me daily how Mema is feeling and if she is getting any better. Today, I told David that she probably is going to be sick for several months before we notice she is getting better. He thought about that. When praying over dinner, Devon asked Jesus to please heal his Mema. I hear my cousins in Illinois' children now refer to them as "Aunt Mema and Uncle Papa." (Pretty sweet.)
They are still asking about her hair. David is especially sensitive and asks the most questions. I told them both that she may loose her hair. I was worried about his response, maybe some sadness and if he would lay awake at night like he sometimes does wondering about that. I should have known better...typical 8 yr old boy...((giggles in an evil kind of laugh)) "hee hee hee...Mema BALD! Hee Hee Hee..." Then Devon said, "maybe we could get her a can of that stuff we saw on the TV commercial. You just spray it on your bald head and your hair grows!"
And with that thought, I will tell you good night. We love you and are thankful for your prayers.
Eat More Kale
Our church retreat weekend went great. This is a quote from a family that attended the retreat, yes, I asked permission if I could copy it from her Facebook page...
"I just have to say, we had the most awesome time at our church family retreat this weekend! It was truly a life-changing event and I really believe that God has talked to us through our hearts and is telling us what he is using us for and what he has in store for our family in the very near future. We had fun as a family, with friends, making new friends, and of course all of the FOOD!"
It is nice to see comments like this because when someone asks me how the retreat went, I tend to look at the technical side of things, "Yes, everyone got there safely" and, "No, I didn't loose any kids in the Laurel Mountains." It's all good! It is fun to see how the hard work pays off and how God takes over the weekend and works in people's lives and speaks to their hearts.
I went back home to Indiana yesterday to see mom and learn some of what it take to make "Warren Road life" happen on a day to day basis. Honestly, I was kind of nervous to go after I had heard some of the side effects she was having and wondering if I could jump right in.
They were not home when I got there.
Things looked ok there, but you could definite tell there was a "system" in place. Mom has her little station by the couch with lots of pillows, blankets, Kleenex, cards, drinking glasses and heating pad. I walked out to the kitchen and her meds were all ready to go in the containers and ready for the week. I walked back the hall and thought I could do some laundry. Laundry hampers were labeled, "mom" and "dad." Mom's had notes attached - "Wear rubber gloves and wash all laundry 2 times." On the washing machine there was a card, "Wash #1" and on the other side, "Wash #2." Oh! Well, I guess I can start here...I put the gloves on, and put a load in the washer. For 2 wks after she has her chemo, her clothes need to be laundered separately and the bathroom needs to be wiped down after each time it is used. Lots of instructions, but I understood this one.
My Uncle Jim Lukehart stopped by as I was there. He is my mom's step-brother and he gives the BEST hugs! It was really good to see him and so cool that when times are hard, the family gets tighter. I love that. We were able to chat for just a bit then mom, dad and Jeannie returned home. Mom said that a grilled cheese sounded good, so I got her lunch ready while she and Uncle Jim talked. She has been eating, but only very small amounts. I think she ate a bit more than she usually does because she was enjoying the company and wasn't paying attention to the food quite as much.
She looked pretty good. Her color isn't too good, to say she is pale is an understatement. She did have blood work done that morning and her blood count was down a bit, so today, she was scheduled to receive some blood after her radiation. She has radiation Mon - Friday at 9:15. She had chemo all last week through her pic line. She will not get chemo again until the last week of her scheduled radiation (at the end of 7 wks). We have one week down.
She does get pretty confused. If you choose to call or talk to her directly, please know that the info that she gives may not be accurate.
I was able to go to the family doctor appointment too that day. So, yes, there were 4 of us in the room, Mom, Dad, Jeannie and me. Luckily, there was lots of room, so it worked out. He was a very nice doctor and we all liked him. Dr. Nettleton (part of Dr. Heasley's group.) He was kind, direct, and a little chatty so he was easy to feel comfortable with. He does get all the reports sent to his office, but it was good for everyone to be on the same page and for him to be "caught-up" with everything.
We are still waiting for blood cultures to come back. She had gone to the ER last week and the blood came back positive (for an infection) but it could have been a false positive too. The second blood was taken Saturday night.
Jeannie's family came over for dinner and we enjoyed some vegetable soup that a dear friend had brought. Thanks Debbie - it was very yummy! She ate her soup, some bread and by the time the meal was over, she was barely able to get down the 2nd bowl of ice cream! :-) Mint chocolate chip - she had requested it. Ice cream has always been a favorite of hers.
I noticed a bowl of something green, dark and frilly on the counter. It was covered with a baggie. I asked what it was, and Jeannie informed me it was Roasted Kale. Hmmm...???? I had seen a large bag of Kale in the fridge, but I didn't ask what it was for. I have never bought it, maybe eaten a bit in a salad that was served, but never was intentional. So, Jeannie read that the kale, along with broccoli, cauliflower and brussel sprouts are foods that cancer cells don't like. So, eating more of these types of food would be very beneficial! She said to try the roasted kale. It was cooked with olive oil, salt & pepper. It was crunchy and quite tasty! It tasted kind of broccoi-ish. So, maybe I'll pick up a bag too. I will get the recipe for it and share it. Jeannie said she sprinkled it on her salad. Yummy! (It does look a little weird, kinda like parsley, but try it anyway!)
I was able to help mom with her bath and got her dressed and into bed. I thought I would be sad having to do some of these basic things with her, but I guess my "mommy skills" kicked in and it was a pleasure to be able to do it. It was good to be able to be strong and to lift her out of the tub. She tends to be kind of weak. Jeannie showed me how to wrap her arm in "Cinch Wrap" so that the pic line doesn't get any water on it.
Jeannie has been there during the day and it is good that Dad also understands her medication schedule so he is also able to be on the ball with instructions and administering. I am planning on going this Friday and staying over through Saturday. It is hard being away, so I am happy to be able to do it.
Mom opened her box from her friend and classmate, Nancy yesterday. Nancy had made little blue flower pins with the letter "G" on it. Mom has a group of 6 friends that they all went to school together. Over the past few years, they have been intentional about getting together and even going away for a weekend. They love being together and it is cute how they have little sayings and nick-names for their gang. They all went to Hawaii this past September to celebrate their 65th bdays. What a crew and a sweet group of gals!
Thank you again for all the love, support, prayers and food! This certainly is a tough road to walk down, but doing it together is a bit easier. We are certain that God is working though this situation and have not wavered from that fact.
Thursday, January 24, 2013
Overwhelmed
That is the most perfect word to explain how I feel. Overwhelmed! Good and bad. One of the reasons that I haven't been posing much on here is that I am getting ready for a big church retreat. I am the Children's Ministry Director at our church and this weekend is our annual Family Retreat. This year we have 58 families attending, 50 kids (birth - 5th grade) 16 Middle School and 27 Sr. High. I am in charge of the kids and the Sr High half the time. I also organize the folders for the weekend, plan family crafts and generally make sure everything is running smoothly. I love it, but it is a very busy weekend.
My office is packed up and full of bins ready to be loaded, my living room has suitcases, Thirty-one bags, pillows, sleeping bags and stuffed animals lined up. My kitchen is...well, a mess. Yes, it is 11:30pm and it is going to wait until the morning. I promise it will. In 30 short minutes is my husband, Dennis' 40th bday. So, I am making him his favorite cake, German Chocolate with pecan coconut icing. We'll take that along to share for snack time tomorrow. I used my double cake pan so there would be lots, but not taking into consideration traveling an hour and a half in the van w/ it packed solid to the ceiling. Hmm...maybe one of the the kids can hold it...yeah...maybe not. Of course it doesnt' have a lid - I didn't think about that part. Maybe I can stop at the bakery at Giant Eagle tomorrow and just buy a box from them. Hopefully then it won't get accidental sneezed or stepped on or a video game dropped into it.
The title of our retreat weekend is, "Building the Family that God Uses." It is about living outside the box of your church and/or your home. I have the younger kids class. I will water that down for them more and talk about "God's Army" and the Armour of God - being ready for the fight - the battle! I made t-shirts for all the kids and helpers with the words God's Army on it - then I blotted camo print around the words. They turned out really cute. I hope they like them. It was one of those moments in the middle when I thought, "what were you thinking when you thought it would be a good idea to make 45 tshirts the day before you leave...?" Well, that's how it works sometimes.
I also match the younger kids up with a Sr. High helper. They LOVE this - both age groups. The big kids are excited to see who they got for the weekend and the little ones just look up to those big high school students. The big kids help the little ones get their food at the dining hall and they help them during class/craft time. It is neat to watch them bond and enjoy each other.
I feel bad not being able to make a nice birthday for my husband. It is his 40th - that is to be a BIG one. However, I can't do too many old man jokes on him b/c mine will follow a few wks later! I still have to wrap his few gifts and remember to pack them!! The candles are already in my purse (and matches.) Hopefully next week I can make him a nice dinner.
It is killing me not being able to be in Indiana to help out with mom. Hopefully after this weekend I will be able to go maybe once/wk to be able to spend some time there. Tonight was kind of a scare. We have this plan, 7 wks of this treatment and it is curable! When these little times come up that weren't planned for, my heart begins to race! What does this mean now? I know they said this was going to be hard, it just really stinks. I wish she didn't have to go through all this. I wish I were just a little closer.
It is all ok. I know everything is part of God's plan not just for her life, but for mine too. I have to figure out how to make everything happen that I need to. I have seen God take my life when I thought it had no hope - give me a plan and a future! He is Good and He is Faithful and He will continue the good work that He has started in my mom. I believe that and I get to be stronger because of it all.
Tonight, when I was scared I sent a note out on the blog and added it to my facebook. When I went back to update, only 2 short hours later, my Facebook page was FILLED with prayer and words of love, comfort and support. I stared to cry. What an amazing and OVERWHELMING God we have. It is just incredible to know that we are not in this alone.
So, once again, I have a peace that my mom is ok and I can carry on with my weekend. I probably won't post for a few more days as I will be busy and they will be filled with much love, laughter, crafts, families, foam shapes, glue, kids, music, glitter, food, snow and lots and lots of Jesus. Just what I needed.
My office is packed up and full of bins ready to be loaded, my living room has suitcases, Thirty-one bags, pillows, sleeping bags and stuffed animals lined up. My kitchen is...well, a mess. Yes, it is 11:30pm and it is going to wait until the morning. I promise it will. In 30 short minutes is my husband, Dennis' 40th bday. So, I am making him his favorite cake, German Chocolate with pecan coconut icing. We'll take that along to share for snack time tomorrow. I used my double cake pan so there would be lots, but not taking into consideration traveling an hour and a half in the van w/ it packed solid to the ceiling. Hmm...maybe one of the the kids can hold it...yeah...maybe not. Of course it doesnt' have a lid - I didn't think about that part. Maybe I can stop at the bakery at Giant Eagle tomorrow and just buy a box from them. Hopefully then it won't get accidental sneezed or stepped on or a video game dropped into it.
The title of our retreat weekend is, "Building the Family that God Uses." It is about living outside the box of your church and/or your home. I have the younger kids class. I will water that down for them more and talk about "God's Army" and the Armour of God - being ready for the fight - the battle! I made t-shirts for all the kids and helpers with the words God's Army on it - then I blotted camo print around the words. They turned out really cute. I hope they like them. It was one of those moments in the middle when I thought, "what were you thinking when you thought it would be a good idea to make 45 tshirts the day before you leave...?" Well, that's how it works sometimes.
I also match the younger kids up with a Sr. High helper. They LOVE this - both age groups. The big kids are excited to see who they got for the weekend and the little ones just look up to those big high school students. The big kids help the little ones get their food at the dining hall and they help them during class/craft time. It is neat to watch them bond and enjoy each other.
I feel bad not being able to make a nice birthday for my husband. It is his 40th - that is to be a BIG one. However, I can't do too many old man jokes on him b/c mine will follow a few wks later! I still have to wrap his few gifts and remember to pack them!! The candles are already in my purse (and matches.) Hopefully next week I can make him a nice dinner.
It is killing me not being able to be in Indiana to help out with mom. Hopefully after this weekend I will be able to go maybe once/wk to be able to spend some time there. Tonight was kind of a scare. We have this plan, 7 wks of this treatment and it is curable! When these little times come up that weren't planned for, my heart begins to race! What does this mean now? I know they said this was going to be hard, it just really stinks. I wish she didn't have to go through all this. I wish I were just a little closer.
It is all ok. I know everything is part of God's plan not just for her life, but for mine too. I have to figure out how to make everything happen that I need to. I have seen God take my life when I thought it had no hope - give me a plan and a future! He is Good and He is Faithful and He will continue the good work that He has started in my mom. I believe that and I get to be stronger because of it all.
Tonight, when I was scared I sent a note out on the blog and added it to my facebook. When I went back to update, only 2 short hours later, my Facebook page was FILLED with prayer and words of love, comfort and support. I stared to cry. What an amazing and OVERWHELMING God we have. It is just incredible to know that we are not in this alone.
So, once again, I have a peace that my mom is ok and I can carry on with my weekend. I probably won't post for a few more days as I will be busy and they will be filled with much love, laughter, crafts, families, foam shapes, glue, kids, music, glitter, food, snow and lots and lots of Jesus. Just what I needed.
Home no infection
Mom is back home. Her red blood cells were a little high and white blood cells were a little low, but nothing to treat. She had no UTI. They also took xrays - all normal. Her temp was normal when they took it at the ER. So, they sent her home. Yes, it is normal to have an elevated temp after receiving chemo, but I guess only for 24 hrs after. The doctor had said to call him if it was any different, so they did.
We are glad that things are all ok. Thanks for your concern, still resting in His peace. Love you all.
We are glad that things are all ok. Thanks for your concern, still resting in His peace. Love you all.
Thursday night prayer request
Jeannie just called me. Mom has a fever and the doctor wanted her to go to the ER. Please pray for healing and wisdom for all.
This has been a hard week for her. She has been having a lot of side effects and has been really restless. She was told this was going to be a hard battle. Here we go!
Aunt Marilyn is scheduled to return to IL tomorrow. Please pray that we have wisdom as to handle her nursing care best for her and our family.
Thank you again for the love, prayers and support.
This has been a hard week for her. She has been having a lot of side effects and has been really restless. She was told this was going to be a hard battle. Here we go!
Aunt Marilyn is scheduled to return to IL tomorrow. Please pray that we have wisdom as to handle her nursing care best for her and our family.
Thank you again for the love, prayers and support.
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
Today mom did start her treatments. She received both chemo and radiation. The chemo is hooked into her pic line which is in her arm. She has a little "pack" of that distributes the chemo until Friday. Although I have not seen it, I imagine it to be similar to the "pain pump" that I had from prior surgeries, however it distributes on it's own, I believe. She gets radiaton Monday - Friday at 9:15am. That is her standard time. It is to last for 7 wks. I talked to her today and she said that she felt no pain with it. The doctors did tell her that it would take a few days until she would start feeling the side effects of the chemo and radiation.
Aunt Marilyn is here until Friday. We have been so thankful that she has been here helping and overseeing all the meds and getting mom's pain under control. We will all miss her and it is again one of those times that we wish the miles weren't so far apart.
I am sorry that I haven't posted for several days. I had Jeannie's kids over the long weekend so that the cousins could play together. I am also getting ready for a big retreat our church goes on. It is called, The Family Retreat and I do a lot of the organizing. It is a lot of work, but always worth it. We all look forward to it each year.
I know a lot of people are having trouble posting a comment. If someone knows how, would you please comment on "how to post a comment?" I have had several questions on it, and honestly, I do not know how to do it myself!
As always, thank you for all your thoughts, prayers, love and support. We feel them all. The next few months are going to be pretty tough. I hate the thought of mom having to go through it all. Daily, it forces us to look beyond what we know and go straight to the feet of Jesus. In HIM alone, I find my peace and hope.
If you would like to contact me, feel free: raraigh@zoominternet.net or Molly Allshouse Raraigh on Facebook
Aunt Marilyn is here until Friday. We have been so thankful that she has been here helping and overseeing all the meds and getting mom's pain under control. We will all miss her and it is again one of those times that we wish the miles weren't so far apart.
I am sorry that I haven't posted for several days. I had Jeannie's kids over the long weekend so that the cousins could play together. I am also getting ready for a big retreat our church goes on. It is called, The Family Retreat and I do a lot of the organizing. It is a lot of work, but always worth it. We all look forward to it each year.
I know a lot of people are having trouble posting a comment. If someone knows how, would you please comment on "how to post a comment?" I have had several questions on it, and honestly, I do not know how to do it myself!
As always, thank you for all your thoughts, prayers, love and support. We feel them all. The next few months are going to be pretty tough. I hate the thought of mom having to go through it all. Daily, it forces us to look beyond what we know and go straight to the feet of Jesus. In HIM alone, I find my peace and hope.
If you would like to contact me, feel free: raraigh@zoominternet.net or Molly Allshouse Raraigh on Facebook
Friday, January 18, 2013
A Clear Plan
We had another family phone call tonight.
Everyone seemed very pleased with Dr. Ruben. They said he was nice and compassionate. He told them that this is "highly curable but a very long process. The lymph nodes are involved, but to the extent doesn't really matter as the chemo and radiation will destroy anything going on with them. They may just be inflamed because everything is in that area right now.
Dr. Ruben also agreed with what Dr. Raminini (the Indiana oncologist) had discussed for a treatment plan. He also felt that Indiana was certainly a fine place for her to receive her treatments. He said he knows Dr. Raminini and felt very confident in his skills and as a person.
The bottom line is that both chemo and radiation will start next week in Indiana. Radiation will be 5 days/wk for 7 wks. Chemo will be the first week and the last week of the 7 wk treatment. Radiation will start on Tuesday and chemo probably on Wednesday. When we asked mom how she felt about this whole thing she said, "I am a little scared, but glad that is is none of you kids or my grand kids."
Her pain is much better controlled now and we are so thankful.
Please forgive this short post, I guess I tend to be more creative earlier in the morning than at 11pm. It has been a long 2 weeks and although it will be really hard, we are ready for the next phase.
Thank you again for all your support, love, encouragement and most of all your prayers. We certainly see how God is working in all of us as this continues to unfold. We love you.
Everyone seemed very pleased with Dr. Ruben. They said he was nice and compassionate. He told them that this is "highly curable but a very long process. The lymph nodes are involved, but to the extent doesn't really matter as the chemo and radiation will destroy anything going on with them. They may just be inflamed because everything is in that area right now.
Dr. Ruben also agreed with what Dr. Raminini (the Indiana oncologist) had discussed for a treatment plan. He also felt that Indiana was certainly a fine place for her to receive her treatments. He said he knows Dr. Raminini and felt very confident in his skills and as a person.
The bottom line is that both chemo and radiation will start next week in Indiana. Radiation will be 5 days/wk for 7 wks. Chemo will be the first week and the last week of the 7 wk treatment. Radiation will start on Tuesday and chemo probably on Wednesday. When we asked mom how she felt about this whole thing she said, "I am a little scared, but glad that is is none of you kids or my grand kids."
Her pain is much better controlled now and we are so thankful.
Please forgive this short post, I guess I tend to be more creative earlier in the morning than at 11pm. It has been a long 2 weeks and although it will be really hard, we are ready for the next phase.
Thank you again for all your support, love, encouragement and most of all your prayers. We certainly see how God is working in all of us as this continues to unfold. We love you.
Busy Day
Mom will have a very busy day today. Today will start with a 8am CAT scan w/ the radiation specialist so he can plot the exact spot that needs to be "zapped." 11:30 she then has an appointment with Dr. Ruben at Pgh Hillman Center for the overall prognosis which will also include the results of the ultrasound of lymph nodes yesterday. This appointment will take 1+ hours and they said the doctor WILL spend that amount of time with them. 3pm, or as soon as they can get there, they will return to Indiana to see the oncologist there to infom him of the Hillman news. Busy day for sure!
My dad, my sister Jeannie and my Aunt Marilyn will all go to the Pgh and Indiana appointments. We are SO glad and thankful that Aunt Marilyn will be there! She is a hospice nurse AND she currently take "cancer classes" just to stay current (I belive, well, I guess I don't really know why she takes those classes...).
Please pray for wisdom and strengh for all today, along with a busy day, it will certainly be an emotional one for sure. I will do my best to post tonight, after our big "Family Call."
My dad, my sister Jeannie and my Aunt Marilyn will all go to the Pgh and Indiana appointments. We are SO glad and thankful that Aunt Marilyn will be there! She is a hospice nurse AND she currently take "cancer classes" just to stay current (I belive, well, I guess I don't really know why she takes those classes...).
Please pray for wisdom and strengh for all today, along with a busy day, it will certainly be an emotional one for sure. I will do my best to post tonight, after our big "Family Call."
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Misunderstanding
I am sorry, I gave you incorrect information. Mom did NOT start her radiation yet. She just had her consultation yesterday with the radiation specialist in Indiana.
Today she did go to Hillman Cancer Center for the ultrasound. He did not give us the results, again as I had thought. He sent the results to both the Indiana and Hillman oncologists that they will see tomorrow, Friday.
We will know lots tomorrow...again, waiting for tomorrow.
Today she did go to Hillman Cancer Center for the ultrasound. He did not give us the results, again as I had thought. He sent the results to both the Indiana and Hillman oncologists that they will see tomorrow, Friday.
We will know lots tomorrow...again, waiting for tomorrow.
Angels Armies by My Side
Yesterday, Wednesday, mom had her 1st radiation treatment. Yes, I know, I was surprised too, I though we were waiting until next week and until she saw the Pgh doc on Friday, but I guess they decided to get this going. Funny how things are, well, really, another God thing, the head of the department, the doc that will administers the radiation, used to be a rectal-colon surgeon. So, he just happens to be an expert in the "area!" He told her that she will receive this daily for 7 weeks. He said that while she was smiling at this appointment, she will not always have a happy look on her face when she sees him. He said that this will be a VERY painful experience and will "burn" very badly both internally and externally and will take about 3 months before she notices an improvement in her pain.
My dad and Jeannie took my mom for the treatment yesterday. I guess they thought Dad was mom's brother! hee hee...well, Jeannie did wonder what that said about her, but never the less, they did all get a chuckle out of it.!
Today and tomorrow are both days we have been waiting for. Today she will go to the Hillman Cancer Center in Pgh to have the ultrasound done. This study will look closer at the enlarged lymph nodes to see what is causing that. Sometimes other tests don't pick up the cancer cells in these nodes and this will also verify the "stage" of cancer that she is in. We will get the result of that test before she leaves that building!
Tomorrow she will see Dr. Ruben, our dear friend, Dave Drummond's doctor. He will give us his overall report and his recommendations from there. We are hoping that we can do most work out of Indiana area, but are certainly willing to do what is needed where ever. He too, will say tomorrow the steps that we go forward with - no waiting. Then, Dr. Raminini (the Indiana oncologist) wants them to go directly to HIS office after the Pgh appointment. He wants to know exactly what Dr. Ruben said and to move forward together so that chemo can start the first of next week. Amazing! How cool that they are waiting for each other so everyone can be on the same page.
Monday she is already scheduled to have a small procedure done at the hospital to receive a pic line. I am not sure of the placement - I would assume her arm?
There is another song's lyrics that have been echoing in my head lately about mom's journey that I wanted to share with you:
We grew up in a strong Christian family. Prayer was something that happened not just at meals, but all the time and church was a "way of life" not part of a Sunday morning schedule. I remember whenever we went on a long trip, maybe to see our family in Illinois, my dad would always pray before we started. He would pray that God would put angels around our car and around others that we would not be harmed. That was a very graphic description to me as a child growing up.
This song is called, "Whom Shall I Fear," by Chris Tomlin. It says, "The God of angel armies is always by my side." This reminded me of Gingie's Journey. "I know who goes before me, I know who stands behind, the God of angel armies is always by my side." I know that there are angels around us everywhere. I believe that. I like to think that when my mom goes and travels this journey, an angel holds the door for her as she walks into her appointment. Maybe one hands the doctor her chart and says, "she is a friend of mine," and of course the one "that stands behind." He guards the door - and doesn't let any more harm her while she is there. Can you imagine? The God of ANGELS ARMIES by HER side, by MY side. Wow! That kinda gives me chills! You can't get much more protection that that!
Prayer requests:
1. Mom's pain continues to be eased especially with the new treatments
2. Dad's bullet business continues to be blessed, but to be manageable for all
3. Jeff's (Jeannie's husband) business to be blessed while Jeannie spends her time helping my parents
4. Wisdom for Jeannie, myself, Becky and Jim as we divide our time between our own families and our parents
5. Rest and peace for all while it happens.
P.S. Before you think that I am so effecient and blogging before my children awake, or that I am not sleeping and blogging in the middle of the night, I have noticed that the time is off on this blog. I do not know how to change it. Not really that big of a deal - just wanted you to know. I think it is like 2 hours behind my actual time.
I hope this song speaks to you like it has spoken to me in the past few weeks. Thank you again for all your love, support and your prayers.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOkImV2cJDg
My dad and Jeannie took my mom for the treatment yesterday. I guess they thought Dad was mom's brother! hee hee...well, Jeannie did wonder what that said about her, but never the less, they did all get a chuckle out of it.!
Today and tomorrow are both days we have been waiting for. Today she will go to the Hillman Cancer Center in Pgh to have the ultrasound done. This study will look closer at the enlarged lymph nodes to see what is causing that. Sometimes other tests don't pick up the cancer cells in these nodes and this will also verify the "stage" of cancer that she is in. We will get the result of that test before she leaves that building!
Tomorrow she will see Dr. Ruben, our dear friend, Dave Drummond's doctor. He will give us his overall report and his recommendations from there. We are hoping that we can do most work out of Indiana area, but are certainly willing to do what is needed where ever. He too, will say tomorrow the steps that we go forward with - no waiting. Then, Dr. Raminini (the Indiana oncologist) wants them to go directly to HIS office after the Pgh appointment. He wants to know exactly what Dr. Ruben said and to move forward together so that chemo can start the first of next week. Amazing! How cool that they are waiting for each other so everyone can be on the same page.
Monday she is already scheduled to have a small procedure done at the hospital to receive a pic line. I am not sure of the placement - I would assume her arm?
There is another song's lyrics that have been echoing in my head lately about mom's journey that I wanted to share with you:
We grew up in a strong Christian family. Prayer was something that happened not just at meals, but all the time and church was a "way of life" not part of a Sunday morning schedule. I remember whenever we went on a long trip, maybe to see our family in Illinois, my dad would always pray before we started. He would pray that God would put angels around our car and around others that we would not be harmed. That was a very graphic description to me as a child growing up.
This song is called, "Whom Shall I Fear," by Chris Tomlin. It says, "The God of angel armies is always by my side." This reminded me of Gingie's Journey. "I know who goes before me, I know who stands behind, the God of angel armies is always by my side." I know that there are angels around us everywhere. I believe that. I like to think that when my mom goes and travels this journey, an angel holds the door for her as she walks into her appointment. Maybe one hands the doctor her chart and says, "she is a friend of mine," and of course the one "that stands behind." He guards the door - and doesn't let any more harm her while she is there. Can you imagine? The God of ANGELS ARMIES by HER side, by MY side. Wow! That kinda gives me chills! You can't get much more protection that that!
Prayer requests:
1. Mom's pain continues to be eased especially with the new treatments
2. Dad's bullet business continues to be blessed, but to be manageable for all
3. Jeff's (Jeannie's husband) business to be blessed while Jeannie spends her time helping my parents
4. Wisdom for Jeannie, myself, Becky and Jim as we divide our time between our own families and our parents
5. Rest and peace for all while it happens.
P.S. Before you think that I am so effecient and blogging before my children awake, or that I am not sleeping and blogging in the middle of the night, I have noticed that the time is off on this blog. I do not know how to change it. Not really that big of a deal - just wanted you to know. I think it is like 2 hours behind my actual time.
I hope this song speaks to you like it has spoken to me in the past few weeks. Thank you again for all your love, support and your prayers.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOkImV2cJDg
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
A Nurse from Mid-West
Today I get to pick up my Aunt Marilyn (mom's sister), at the airport! She is flying in from Illinois to stay with my parents until the 25th. It is always so much fun being with the Irmegers, however many that may be! Their maiden name is Koontz, so several years ago, once us 1st cousins started getting married and having kids, we intentionally would get together at a common meeting place, maybe in Ohio, and would call it, Koontz Girls Reunion! My Aunt also had 4 kids, now 12 grandchildren. Allshouse count is 4 kids, 10 grandchildren! I am not exactly sure that there is an official "race" going on and as to who will finish w/ more grand kids, all I know is I did my part at 4, and I AM OUT! (I always say that, "once they start coming two at a time, it is time to stop!" Actually, twins do run in my family, my mom's side. The year my twins were born, we had a family reunion from my mom's mom's side - the George's. From 98 in attendance, there were 5 sets of faternal twins! My husband looked at me and said, "you should have told me this about a year ago!" :-)
My Aunt Marilyn is also a nurse. I say also, because my mom is a nurse along with my cousin, Margie (in Illinois). Sometimes having a lot of nurses can be like having too many chefs in the kitchen. However in this situation, we are welcoming all advice.
Mom's pain is still a concern and needs to be lifted in prayer. They did add morphine to her meds, and it helped a little, but not as much as they had hoped. Morphine was what the insurance did pay, not what I had mentioned the other day. I know the times I had extreme pain from my foot reconstruction and my ACL surgery, each day maybe was a wee bit better. It makes me really sad knowing right now, each day is a bit worse for her.
Yesterday my sister Jeannie spent a good bit of time on the phone with Hillman Center getting the genetic info started. Since both my mom's parent's died of cancer, different forms, they wanted to know the entire family history. I am so glad that she is there to do that! (When I was at the hospital w/ my mom, and had to do some patient info, I got both the Family Doctor AND the pharmacy that she uses WRONG! Opps!) They also do a genetic study to find out exactly what type of cells and cancer will respond to what types of treatments. A kind friend from church sat down with me on Sunday and shared his wife's and brother's cancer journey with me. He told me the info on the genetic study and why that helps and is necessary. Thanks, Gary! She will have blood work today, I believe, to get that going.
The blood work will also look into other things as her thyroid. She has had significant memory loss, especially over the past few weeks. This information really intrigued the doctor. We are so happy that everyone really seems to be looking at her big picture with everything. How grateful we truly are.
We are still waiting a day and time this week for the ultrasound that will further look at the tumor and will tell us more of the enlarged lymph nodes. This Friday at 11 is the appointment, 2nd opinion with Dr. Joshua Ruben at the Hillman Center. Yes, he is a surgeon, and this is NOT to be a surgical issue, but we want HIS opinion on that. He will also give a FULL oncology report of findings, head to toe as to the best overall treatment. This family consultation will take an hour. I would like to go, but I probably won't. If Jeannie can't, I will let Aunt Marilyn go in her place - not that I have the say as to who should be there, but we ALL want to be there and I want to respect the doctor, his time, and the size of the room (even though I don't mind standing...). My Aunt Marilyn is only here for 10 days, I want to give her all the time with her sister that she can have.
My mind is is everywhere with all the thoughts of the past, present and the future and my dreams are taking the hit! My dream last night was I was fired from my job, I needed to find a new one, friends were coming in from out of town and I had to help mom get ready. She had my babies at her house. I needed to find a job, AND my clothes because the bus was coming! I didn't want to work at Eat N Park again, like in college, but I was pretty sure I could get a job there. UGH...time to wake up!!!!!
If you are communicating with my mom personally, please reassure her that I am trying to do my best with keeping this blog discrete with personal information. When I talk to her, she now starts each conversation with, "now don't go putting this into the blog...". I do tell her everyone that has made a comment on her, emailed me or a note on Facebook. Please feel free to contact me at any time. raraigh@zoominternet.net or Molly Allshouse Raraigh at Facebook.
We all appreciate your love, support and your prayers - from the bottom of our hearts.
My Aunt Marilyn is also a nurse. I say also, because my mom is a nurse along with my cousin, Margie (in Illinois). Sometimes having a lot of nurses can be like having too many chefs in the kitchen. However in this situation, we are welcoming all advice.
Mom's pain is still a concern and needs to be lifted in prayer. They did add morphine to her meds, and it helped a little, but not as much as they had hoped. Morphine was what the insurance did pay, not what I had mentioned the other day. I know the times I had extreme pain from my foot reconstruction and my ACL surgery, each day maybe was a wee bit better. It makes me really sad knowing right now, each day is a bit worse for her.
Yesterday my sister Jeannie spent a good bit of time on the phone with Hillman Center getting the genetic info started. Since both my mom's parent's died of cancer, different forms, they wanted to know the entire family history. I am so glad that she is there to do that! (When I was at the hospital w/ my mom, and had to do some patient info, I got both the Family Doctor AND the pharmacy that she uses WRONG! Opps!) They also do a genetic study to find out exactly what type of cells and cancer will respond to what types of treatments. A kind friend from church sat down with me on Sunday and shared his wife's and brother's cancer journey with me. He told me the info on the genetic study and why that helps and is necessary. Thanks, Gary! She will have blood work today, I believe, to get that going.
The blood work will also look into other things as her thyroid. She has had significant memory loss, especially over the past few weeks. This information really intrigued the doctor. We are so happy that everyone really seems to be looking at her big picture with everything. How grateful we truly are.
We are still waiting a day and time this week for the ultrasound that will further look at the tumor and will tell us more of the enlarged lymph nodes. This Friday at 11 is the appointment, 2nd opinion with Dr. Joshua Ruben at the Hillman Center. Yes, he is a surgeon, and this is NOT to be a surgical issue, but we want HIS opinion on that. He will also give a FULL oncology report of findings, head to toe as to the best overall treatment. This family consultation will take an hour. I would like to go, but I probably won't. If Jeannie can't, I will let Aunt Marilyn go in her place - not that I have the say as to who should be there, but we ALL want to be there and I want to respect the doctor, his time, and the size of the room (even though I don't mind standing...). My Aunt Marilyn is only here for 10 days, I want to give her all the time with her sister that she can have.
My mind is is everywhere with all the thoughts of the past, present and the future and my dreams are taking the hit! My dream last night was I was fired from my job, I needed to find a new one, friends were coming in from out of town and I had to help mom get ready. She had my babies at her house. I needed to find a job, AND my clothes because the bus was coming! I didn't want to work at Eat N Park again, like in college, but I was pretty sure I could get a job there. UGH...time to wake up!!!!!
If you are communicating with my mom personally, please reassure her that I am trying to do my best with keeping this blog discrete with personal information. When I talk to her, she now starts each conversation with, "now don't go putting this into the blog...". I do tell her everyone that has made a comment on her, emailed me or a note on Facebook. Please feel free to contact me at any time. raraigh@zoominternet.net or Molly Allshouse Raraigh at Facebook.
We all appreciate your love, support and your prayers - from the bottom of our hearts.
Sunday, January 13, 2013
Sabbath - the day of rest
Exodus 20:8
“Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.
Today, mom did go to church. Still, she is in a good bit of pain, and it hard just to get out the door. She said she was really happy that she went and it revived her soul. Mom even got to hold a new born baby for a while during church. That is pretty good medicine too.
We need to pray that the insurance company approves a higher strength pain medication for her. Right now, that is questionable, and we need to get her more comfortable. Right now I do not know what the problem is with that, but we need to pray that all walls are removed and the medication can go through.
Thank you again for all your love and support.
I understand that it is quite difficult to post comments on here - that a lot of steps need to happen to make it possible. If you would like to contact me, I am happy to tell my parents any messages. I am on Facebook, Molly Allshouse Raraigh and my home email is raraigh@zoominternet.net.
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Stages
Something I forgot to post last night was the "stage" she is in. It is stage 2-3 because we do not know the involvement of the lymph nodes at this point. Once that is confirmed via ultrasound, next week, the stage will be more clear.
Friday, January 11, 2013
Good News
Yes! We have good news! The PET scan showed that no other spots on her body were positive for cancer cells! Praise God! It did show that she has some enlarged lymph nodes that need to be further looked at. It also showed that her kidneys are being affected by this tumor. Yes, there is a tumor, but the dr. says it is curable! He would like to start chemo and radiation as early as Jan 21st. We are going to get the 2nd opinion in Pgh at the Hillman Center and that is where the Indiana doc is sending her for the further study on those lymph nodes. Since this is such a rare form, the Cancer Center in Phili is not the place that would be recommended. Lots of phone calls will take place next week to try to get everyone on the same page for the appt on Friday. As of now, she is NOT a surgical candidate as he thinks the tumor is shrinkable. Such amazing news.
We did a family call tonight, Mom, Dad, Jeannie, Joel, Jim, Becca and Penny were all on phones on Warren Road and I was in a parking lot on my cell and Becky was at home on the bottom of the globe. We did a huge 3 way calling and were able to all talk about it together. It was a great way to communicate and an awesome feeling of being together. We serve a might God, no matter what the diagnosis, His plan is STILL good, and HIS time is perfect. I am thankful for it all. Much love to you all and thank you for all your love, support and prayers. Goodnight.
P.S. I just found the "spell check" button - sorry I didn't notice it before - probably lots of mistakes! :-)
We did a family call tonight, Mom, Dad, Jeannie, Joel, Jim, Becca and Penny were all on phones on Warren Road and I was in a parking lot on my cell and Becky was at home on the bottom of the globe. We did a huge 3 way calling and were able to all talk about it together. It was a great way to communicate and an awesome feeling of being together. We serve a might God, no matter what the diagnosis, His plan is STILL good, and HIS time is perfect. I am thankful for it all. Much love to you all and thank you for all your love, support and prayers. Goodnight.
P.S. I just found the "spell check" button - sorry I didn't notice it before - probably lots of mistakes! :-)
Bullets and Blossoms
I don't know how many of you have stopped by or have called my parent's house lately, but it is CRAZY there! Dad's bullet business is BOOMING (no pun intended - well, maybe a little...)! The phone does not stop ringing with orders! If you call, probably both dad and my mom will pick up. (It reminds me of my house, each kid answering each phone!) I talked to my sister, Jeannie this morning. She said while she was there, writing in mom's special notebook (where they are putting all important medical info) she even answered the phone and took 2 gun orders. She kindly told the man that no, she didn't know the differenct between a 9mm and a 223 brass, but things have been very busy and she would certainly give my father the message.
Mom loves flowers and bouquets. Her friends and family have been showering her with their love in the form of flowers. That is awesome and it makes her so happy. When you walk in though, there are flowers on each table and stand. However it doesn't have that funny funeral home smell yet, you know which one I am talking about, the funny smell of carnations, eucalyptus and cheap perfume. (Note to self, when bringing her a boquet, stay clear of certain strong scents).
We are being blessed with bullets and blossoms - showers of "hope and a future" from God in different forms. {Jer. 29:11}
If you are interested in what my dad's business is about, you can see his website posted below. I am not too good at explaining it:
http://frangiblebullets.com/
Today is the day of the offical news. I am ready for it. Her appointment is 2:40. When researching a bit on my own, I read that this type of cancer once found is usually in the last stages. We found out that there are only 74 cases known. My husband, Dennis, also read that all the cases found after 2005 are still living now! Phew. What we don't know is if has spread to other parts. That is my fear. I do have a peace. Either way, it is going to be good and THAT we are promised of. I will continue to put my fear into the arms of my Jesus, the Prince of Peace, my Abba Father, Emmanuel. I know HE will be faithful to continue the good work He has started in her and in me - and THERE I find my rest.
Tonight is my daughter, Alaina's Snowball Dance with her boyfriend, Brett. They both go to Lenape Vo-Tech. She did ask me to help her get ready and to do her hair. So, I probably won't post any new until much later tonight. We will wait and pray.
P.S. I did figure out how to change the color and fonts on the blog page. There were several thing that they automatically did in "orange" and that is not only "NOT" one of my mom's colors, she just can't even stand the sight of orange. So, even though she hasn't seen this blog, it had to be changed. Blue. :-)
Mom loves flowers and bouquets. Her friends and family have been showering her with their love in the form of flowers. That is awesome and it makes her so happy. When you walk in though, there are flowers on each table and stand. However it doesn't have that funny funeral home smell yet, you know which one I am talking about, the funny smell of carnations, eucalyptus and cheap perfume. (Note to self, when bringing her a boquet, stay clear of certain strong scents).
We are being blessed with bullets and blossoms - showers of "hope and a future" from God in different forms. {Jer. 29:11}
If you are interested in what my dad's business is about, you can see his website posted below. I am not too good at explaining it:
http://frangiblebullets.com/
Today is the day of the offical news. I am ready for it. Her appointment is 2:40. When researching a bit on my own, I read that this type of cancer once found is usually in the last stages. We found out that there are only 74 cases known. My husband, Dennis, also read that all the cases found after 2005 are still living now! Phew. What we don't know is if has spread to other parts. That is my fear. I do have a peace. Either way, it is going to be good and THAT we are promised of. I will continue to put my fear into the arms of my Jesus, the Prince of Peace, my Abba Father, Emmanuel. I know HE will be faithful to continue the good work He has started in her and in me - and THERE I find my rest.
Tonight is my daughter, Alaina's Snowball Dance with her boyfriend, Brett. They both go to Lenape Vo-Tech. She did ask me to help her get ready and to do her hair. So, I probably won't post any new until much later tonight. We will wait and pray.
P.S. I did figure out how to change the color and fonts on the blog page. There were several thing that they automatically did in "orange" and that is not only "NOT" one of my mom's colors, she just can't even stand the sight of orange. So, even though she hasn't seen this blog, it had to be changed. Blue. :-)
Thursday, January 10, 2013
While I'm Waiting
Creating a Blog...
When we first found out about my mom's new journey, I had called my Aunt Marilyn for a silly question, but I guess really just to hear her loving, reassuring voice. She had suggested that it would be nice if someone created a blog to that family and friends could keep in touch better. My sister Becky, right now is 3 hrs ahead of us and our family in Illinois is 1 hr behind, so sometimes calling can be a bit challanging. I thought It was a really good idea, but had never chatted on or had even created a blog. I asked for some help on Facebook. Someone whom I never expected asked me to "pm" them (personal message). I told them what I wanted to do and how I needed help. They kindly walked me through and told me what to do. For that I was incredibly grateful. Thanks Matt.
After spending all morning creating a blog (actually several wrong ones...) I was now onto the task of "decorating" it. You can pick the way you want it to be laid out (which I didn't do anything with) and you could pick the background. There were different topics, basic, watercolor, simple, etc. I went first for mom's favorite color, blue. It was a pretty blue, a perfect baby blue, one I know she would have picked for a nursery. After I looked at it for a while, I thought it was too cheery. Not that I wanted black, the color of death, but not this sky-everythings-perfect-in-the-world blue. Ok- onto the next color - tan. I thought good. Neutral. Perfect. Well, it had some ducks or some kind of birds in the corner flying into the sunset. Maybe good for a the outdoors man or duck lover, but not my mom. There was a chocolate brown. "Brown? Hmmm...crazy how that color has become quite popular in the last few years. Brown. Hey, mom has a LL Bean fleece vest (and shirt to match, of course) that is this EXACT color. She loves that color now," I thought to myself. She has become quite the LL Bean lover these days. "Their clothes just hold up so well in the wash and their colors don't fade." She says.
Mom has always been serious about colors. In fact, I'm not sure if she still does, but she used to carry around in her purse color swatches for each "season." So depending on your skin tone, eye & hair color decides what "season" you are in: Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall. She is a winter. She would carry these swatches around with her - a rainbow of colors, so when she was shopping for herself or others, she knew if that was a color that they would wear and that would look right on them. Now that she is a blond, she can now wear browns and olive shades, something she was not able to wear before. :-)
Chocolate Brown. This IS indeed one of her colors. After I clicked on the "brown" page, I saw that it had a map/globe print at the top. "Oh rats! I thought this one was perfect, guess I'll keep looking," I thought to myself. It reminded me of a den's wallpaper. BOOORRRRING!!! I just stared at that page for what seemed like a long time. "Actually, it is perfect. THIS is the reason we are doing this blog. She not only has people that love her literally all over this world, we are ALL trying to stay connected. AND it fit with what I had wanted to call the blog, Gingie's Journey. Her journey ... from this world to the next...whenever that may be. Yes, this is it."
A map. Funny. I started thinking about that. Maps. You know, I used to tease my sister, Becky when she was growing up that she was such a nerd. She had maps all over her walls in her room! Even in high school - how dorky and weird!!!! Now she works in US Embassys all over the world. I have a picture from Christmas a few years ago. Becky and her family had just moved to Uruguay a few months prior and a few of us were sitting at mom's diningroom table looking at an atlas and a globe. That was our time with Becky.
I used to tease Jeannie about carrying a calculator with her in her purse. "I need it for my classes!" Yeah, whatever, you are such a nerd! She is now a doctor of chiropractic and God uses her to touch and heal people's bodies.
I don't remember what Jimmy had on his bedroom walls or what he carried around with him. He was 10 yrs younger than me and really, I appreciated him because my parent's always thought I was the rebel of the family, then they had Jim. He made me look not so bad!!
My walls? Well, I had Ralph Macchio and Kirk Cameron posters on my walls. Come on, they were pretty cute. How has that affected me today? Well, I can say that I did watch Ralph on Dancing with the Stars a couple of years ago and Kirk Cameron was on the movie Fireproof that I happend to watch again over Christmas break. Yes, they deeply affected my life...ha ha.
Today, is the tumor meeting with the doctors. We don't know what time it is. I don't think there is actually a tumor. They are cells that are on the ulcers at the bottom of her colon - that is just what this first meeting is called. Mom's appointment with the Indiana oncologist is tomorrow, Friday at 2:45. We do not know if they will call her today after this tumor meeting or if they will wait until tomorrow. This waiting really is hard. I can handle any kind of news, I just like to know so I can plan. Waiting...
I am a music person. Music and lyrics speak to me and often help me. Below is the link and to the video and lyrics to the song, "While I'm Waiting." This song is from the movie, Fireproof, with Kirk Cameron. (guess he did have a bigger impact on my life) - the video will come on after the commercial. Click on the link below:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3b2jw1rjBc&noredirect=1
While I'm Waiting
I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am hopeful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it is painful
But patiently, I will wait
I will move ahead, bold and confident
Takeing every step in obedience
While I'm waiting
I will serve You
While I'm waiting
I will worship
While I'm waiting
I will not faint
I'll be running the race
Even while I wait
I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am peaceful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it's not easy
But faithfully, I will wait
Yes, I will wait
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve you while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting on You, Lord
When we first found out about my mom's new journey, I had called my Aunt Marilyn for a silly question, but I guess really just to hear her loving, reassuring voice. She had suggested that it would be nice if someone created a blog to that family and friends could keep in touch better. My sister Becky, right now is 3 hrs ahead of us and our family in Illinois is 1 hr behind, so sometimes calling can be a bit challanging. I thought It was a really good idea, but had never chatted on or had even created a blog. I asked for some help on Facebook. Someone whom I never expected asked me to "pm" them (personal message). I told them what I wanted to do and how I needed help. They kindly walked me through and told me what to do. For that I was incredibly grateful. Thanks Matt.
After spending all morning creating a blog (actually several wrong ones...) I was now onto the task of "decorating" it. You can pick the way you want it to be laid out (which I didn't do anything with) and you could pick the background. There were different topics, basic, watercolor, simple, etc. I went first for mom's favorite color, blue. It was a pretty blue, a perfect baby blue, one I know she would have picked for a nursery. After I looked at it for a while, I thought it was too cheery. Not that I wanted black, the color of death, but not this sky-everythings-perfect-in-the-world blue. Ok- onto the next color - tan. I thought good. Neutral. Perfect. Well, it had some ducks or some kind of birds in the corner flying into the sunset. Maybe good for a the outdoors man or duck lover, but not my mom. There was a chocolate brown. "Brown? Hmmm...crazy how that color has become quite popular in the last few years. Brown. Hey, mom has a LL Bean fleece vest (and shirt to match, of course) that is this EXACT color. She loves that color now," I thought to myself. She has become quite the LL Bean lover these days. "Their clothes just hold up so well in the wash and their colors don't fade." She says.
Mom has always been serious about colors. In fact, I'm not sure if she still does, but she used to carry around in her purse color swatches for each "season." So depending on your skin tone, eye & hair color decides what "season" you are in: Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall. She is a winter. She would carry these swatches around with her - a rainbow of colors, so when she was shopping for herself or others, she knew if that was a color that they would wear and that would look right on them. Now that she is a blond, she can now wear browns and olive shades, something she was not able to wear before. :-)
Chocolate Brown. This IS indeed one of her colors. After I clicked on the "brown" page, I saw that it had a map/globe print at the top. "Oh rats! I thought this one was perfect, guess I'll keep looking," I thought to myself. It reminded me of a den's wallpaper. BOOORRRRING!!! I just stared at that page for what seemed like a long time. "Actually, it is perfect. THIS is the reason we are doing this blog. She not only has people that love her literally all over this world, we are ALL trying to stay connected. AND it fit with what I had wanted to call the blog, Gingie's Journey. Her journey ... from this world to the next...whenever that may be. Yes, this is it."
A map. Funny. I started thinking about that. Maps. You know, I used to tease my sister, Becky when she was growing up that she was such a nerd. She had maps all over her walls in her room! Even in high school - how dorky and weird!!!! Now she works in US Embassys all over the world. I have a picture from Christmas a few years ago. Becky and her family had just moved to Uruguay a few months prior and a few of us were sitting at mom's diningroom table looking at an atlas and a globe. That was our time with Becky.
I used to tease Jeannie about carrying a calculator with her in her purse. "I need it for my classes!" Yeah, whatever, you are such a nerd! She is now a doctor of chiropractic and God uses her to touch and heal people's bodies.
I don't remember what Jimmy had on his bedroom walls or what he carried around with him. He was 10 yrs younger than me and really, I appreciated him because my parent's always thought I was the rebel of the family, then they had Jim. He made me look not so bad!!
My walls? Well, I had Ralph Macchio and Kirk Cameron posters on my walls. Come on, they were pretty cute. How has that affected me today? Well, I can say that I did watch Ralph on Dancing with the Stars a couple of years ago and Kirk Cameron was on the movie Fireproof that I happend to watch again over Christmas break. Yes, they deeply affected my life...ha ha.
Today, is the tumor meeting with the doctors. We don't know what time it is. I don't think there is actually a tumor. They are cells that are on the ulcers at the bottom of her colon - that is just what this first meeting is called. Mom's appointment with the Indiana oncologist is tomorrow, Friday at 2:45. We do not know if they will call her today after this tumor meeting or if they will wait until tomorrow. This waiting really is hard. I can handle any kind of news, I just like to know so I can plan. Waiting...
I am a music person. Music and lyrics speak to me and often help me. Below is the link and to the video and lyrics to the song, "While I'm Waiting." This song is from the movie, Fireproof, with Kirk Cameron. (guess he did have a bigger impact on my life) - the video will come on after the commercial. Click on the link below:
| While I'm Waiting" Lyrics | [edit] |
| by John Waller | from the album The Blessing | |
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3b2jw1rjBc&noredirect=1
While I'm Waiting
I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am hopeful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it is painful
But patiently, I will wait
I will move ahead, bold and confident
Takeing every step in obedience
While I'm waiting
I will serve You
While I'm waiting
I will worship
While I'm waiting
I will not faint
I'll be running the race
Even while I wait
I'm waiting
I'm waiting on You, Lord
And I am peaceful
I'm waiting on You, Lord
Though it's not easy
But faithfully, I will wait
Yes, I will wait
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve You while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting
I will serve you while I'm waiting
I will worship while I'm waiting on You, Lord
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
I talked to mom this morning shortly after she had gotten up. She didn't sound too good. She said that she has medication that helps her to sleep all night, but then she didn't get her pain pill in the middle of the night. So, when she got up, she had a good bit of pain. The doctor is going to give her another pain pill at night that will last for 12 hrs so that doesn't happen again. It is so hard to play "catch-up" when you are taking medication for pain. I hope this helps that situation.
Today, they were able to make several appointments. She is to see her local oncologist this Friday and the Pgh dr. next Friday. I know she is also to make an appt w/ her family doctor. She will be changing to Dr. Heasley's group. Her prior family dr. doesn't make rounds in the hospital, so she needed to change. I met Dr. Heasely. He was the type of doctor that you could see the kindness in his eyes. I like that and we are happy with the new group.
I got a text from a friend that had dropped something by their house for me today. She said that my mom was nice and upbeat. That sure was good to hear as that would not have been the words I would have used to describe her this morning.
My sister Jeannie, recently had a change in her schedule. As always, God is perfect with His timing and we are glad she will be there to help mom and dad. My other sister Becky, who lives in Uruguay will be coming home in June with her family and again, in God's perfect timing, she and her kids will be staying and living in Indiana for a whole year. I know having all 4 of her children in the same state will be the best medicine of all for her. I used to be the closest one living in Sarver, PA (about 50 min from Indiana) come July, I will be the farthest!
Jeannie also had paperwork and release forms to have mom's case be revied in Phili, I belive it is the Cancer Treatment Center of America, but I am not 100% sure of the name right now. I have heard wonderful things about that place and was excited to see that someone else had also recommended it to her. I will let you know for sure of the name later.
I am also praying about what to share with this blog. Thank you for your love, prayers and support.
Today, they were able to make several appointments. She is to see her local oncologist this Friday and the Pgh dr. next Friday. I know she is also to make an appt w/ her family doctor. She will be changing to Dr. Heasley's group. Her prior family dr. doesn't make rounds in the hospital, so she needed to change. I met Dr. Heasely. He was the type of doctor that you could see the kindness in his eyes. I like that and we are happy with the new group.
I got a text from a friend that had dropped something by their house for me today. She said that my mom was nice and upbeat. That sure was good to hear as that would not have been the words I would have used to describe her this morning.
My sister Jeannie, recently had a change in her schedule. As always, God is perfect with His timing and we are glad she will be there to help mom and dad. My other sister Becky, who lives in Uruguay will be coming home in June with her family and again, in God's perfect timing, she and her kids will be staying and living in Indiana for a whole year. I know having all 4 of her children in the same state will be the best medicine of all for her. I used to be the closest one living in Sarver, PA (about 50 min from Indiana) come July, I will be the farthest!
Jeannie also had paperwork and release forms to have mom's case be revied in Phili, I belive it is the Cancer Treatment Center of America, but I am not 100% sure of the name right now. I have heard wonderful things about that place and was excited to see that someone else had also recommended it to her. I will let you know for sure of the name later.
I am also praying about what to share with this blog. Thank you for your love, prayers and support.
Monday, January 7, 2013
Today mom had a PET scan. She got an IV that pumped fluid through her body. Then she was to go to to the bathroom. Now she was ready for the actual scan. She had to lay flat as they scanned her whole body which took about 1/2 hr. Other than not eating carbs yesterday, it was a painless procedure. It will take about 4 days to get the results.
Her oncologist from Indiana is Dr. Reminini. She also got a name from our close friend Sue Drummond - Dr. Joshua Ruben from the Hillman Cancer Center in Pgh:
http://www.upmccancercenter.com/network/upmchillman.cfm
"UPMC CancerCenter, partner with University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute (UPCI), has partnered with community-based hospitals throughout the region to develop one of the largest integrated community networks of cancer physicians and health care specialists in the country.
UPMC CancerCenter at Hillman Cancer Center, part of UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside, allows patients to receive the highest level of cancer care without having to leave their communities.
Hillman Cancer Center, part of UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside, is the flagship treatment and research facility of the UPMC CancerCenter network. Home to the state-of-the-art clinical services of UPMC CancerCenter and the nationally and internationally recognized research of the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Hillman Cancer Center provides specialized diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and care for patients and their families."
The hopes are that Dr. Reminini and Dr. Ruben will then be able to collaborate and come up with the best treatment for her. Thurday will be a "tumor meeting" where the docs will give the treatment plan. I am not sure if both docs will be able to come together at that time.
Yesterday, she was able to go to church. Her pain is controlled w/ medication, however sitting is quite uncomfortable and she has to "shift" quite frequently. She was overwhlemed by the love and support she felt by her church family.
God is good and we are trusting Him along this journey. Love to all! Molly :-)
"For I know the plans I have for you," declairs the Lord. "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future!" Jeremiah 29:11
Her oncologist from Indiana is Dr. Reminini. She also got a name from our close friend Sue Drummond - Dr. Joshua Ruben from the Hillman Cancer Center in Pgh:
http://www.upmccancercenter.com/network/upmchillman.cfm
"UPMC CancerCenter, partner with University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute (UPCI), has partnered with community-based hospitals throughout the region to develop one of the largest integrated community networks of cancer physicians and health care specialists in the country.
UPMC CancerCenter at Hillman Cancer Center, part of UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside, allows patients to receive the highest level of cancer care without having to leave their communities.
Hillman Cancer Center, part of UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside, is the flagship treatment and research facility of the UPMC CancerCenter network. Home to the state-of-the-art clinical services of UPMC CancerCenter and the nationally and internationally recognized research of the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Hillman Cancer Center provides specialized diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and care for patients and their families."
The hopes are that Dr. Reminini and Dr. Ruben will then be able to collaborate and come up with the best treatment for her. Thurday will be a "tumor meeting" where the docs will give the treatment plan. I am not sure if both docs will be able to come together at that time.
Yesterday, she was able to go to church. Her pain is controlled w/ medication, however sitting is quite uncomfortable and she has to "shift" quite frequently. She was overwhlemed by the love and support she felt by her church family.
God is good and we are trusting Him along this journey. Love to all! Molly :-)
"For I know the plans I have for you," declairs the Lord. "Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future!" Jeremiah 29:11
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