Mike woke up this morning deciding he needed oxygen after all. So it took most of the day to get it delivered, but Mike is breathing a lot easier. His procedure (thoracentesis) will be done Monday, at 12:45. It is unclear if they will attempt to do one lung, or both.

Mike is still struggling to eat. I came home at lunch to make him something to eat, and he only ate one bite. There is so much fluid built up in his abdomen and lungs that it probably is pressing against his stomach, giving him the sensation of feeling full. But he is so thin, and desperately needs to eat.

His fever broke this evening...so the antibiotic is helping. I have seen some improvement around his drain.

Please continue to keep Mike in your prayers. He is so fragile right now. Thank you so much.

Mike had a difficult night. He ended up sleeping, sitting up, because he was having trouble breathing laying down. When I tried to wake him for his breakfast and medications, I noticed he was running a temperature. I also noticed things were not looking the same around his tube, underneath the dressing. I asked him to call his oncologist, who happened to be in town today.

I couldn't get Mike to wake up enough to eat anything, or take his medications, before I left for work, so I made him promise me to do that. I called him at 10 a.m. and he was still asleep. I insisted again that he take his meds and call the doctor. He called me after speaking to the head oncology nurse. She asked Mike which hospital he wanted to go to, because that was where he needed to head. He was taken by surprise with that, and told her he needed to speak with me while she discussed things with the oncologist.

Mike ended up going to the hospital here in town to have a chest xray. He was suppose to have a thoracentesis on each lung, if necessary. Once there, they confirmed the pleural effusions had increased, but they realized they couldn't do anything because Mike was on Coumadin. (blood thinners) He needs to be off of those 3 days before they can do the procedure. So he'll have this procedure done sometime Monday.

So, we've stopped the Coumadin and Mike's on Levaquin (antibiotic). They tried to set up oxygen for him to use at home over the weekend, to help with his breathing, but Mike declined it.

This evening he's eaten very little, but he did have some hearty homemade chicken noodle soup, that one of our church family friends made for him. We were spoiled today having dinner prepared for us...and it couldn't have come on a better day.

Everyone has been so helpful and thoughtful. My boss even folded the bulletins I had printed this morning, while I ran home to take Mike to the hospital. I'm so blessed to be working for such a sweet church family.

Thank you for continuing to guard Mike with your thoughts and prayers. As of this evening, there is no temperature...but he keeps falling asleep sitting up...and refuses to go to bed early. I pray God will touch Mike's right side and heal whatever might be going on inside, and that He'll divinely touch Mike's lungs to remove all of this excess fluids.

Mike is not feeling well and is running a temperature. Please pray this stays under control. Thank you.

Today was a day of overwhelming blessings! Mike's and my heart is filled with so much gratefulness.

There have been days when it has felt like our family tripped and fell into a deep, dark cavern two years ago; out of earshot from God, with our cries for help. Tears have fallen to a point when there didn't feel like there was anymore left. But then there have been days when God's mercy and grace have not only filled our cup full, but has filled it to the brim, spilling over, down the side, with His faithfulness and provision. He has not only given us Himself...but has blessed us with all of you. What a gift! What a blessing! What a lesson learned! His tenderness to take care of His children overwhelms us.

Thank you for your thoughts and prayers today. Mike has felt okay most of the day. He ate well for breakfast and lunch, but when dinner rolled around, he was a little nauseated. So he took some Phengren, and around 7:30, asked me to scramble him three eggs and a piece of toast. I was thankful he got 3 meals down today.

He had hoped to resume physical therapy today, but didn't make it. I think just getting up and going is a big challenge for him. He is doing fairly well getting awake before I leave for work. This way I can change his dressings and get him his breakfast and medications before I leave, but I think his pain medicine takes the edge off of things enough to lull him back to sleep. Plus he has admitted that he gets a little depressed when I'm away at work, so sleep has a way of passing time for him.

My hope is that he'll gain some weight and some strength, so he can get back into his studio and shop. I'm also optimistic that when his sister and brother-n-law arrive in September, they will be able to keep him company at times.

We finally accepted an application for Mike to receive a disability parking pass. He is having such trouble walking right now, running out of breath, that it will be helpful. Mike just hates anything that makes him feel, or look, disabled. I'm praying God will open up a whole new life for Mike because of this disability, and will use him to bless others. In many ways, he already is doing this. So many share with me the blessing Mike is to them. It's beautiful how God turns bad into good.

Thank you so much for loving us, and giving so much of yourselves to us. We are truly blessed!

Thank you for all of your prayers! Mike and I felt them.

Our appointment with the oncologist this morning, went well. The scan results were good, in as much as nothing has changed, accept Pleural Infusion in Mike's lungs and significant Ascites in his abdomen. (fluid built up in Mike's lungs and abdomen) His ammonia level is up to 50, with 32 being normal, so the medication he is on should help with this. The other tumor/situations appear the same, and it was suggested to continue treatment.

So Mike had a treatment this morning of Gemzar and FU5. FU5 is an intravenous form of Xeloda, the oral chemo Mike had been taking that caused all the trouble. Obviously, our doctor feels that the suggestion from MD Anderson is the course to stay on. Perhaps this intravenous version will be easier on Mike. I pray so.

Mike will have another treatment next Tuesday and then will have a week off, before his next treatment. 2 On- 1 Off cycle...lasting about an hour long.

Please help me cover Mike with prayer while he is on these new treatments. His heart, his lungs, his liver...his appetite, and his skin are all subject to these harsh chemicals, and my prayer is that Mike will be safe and healthy, while on them. There is such a thin line, with the doctors trying to move fluids & bile quickly through Mike's body with diuretics, to rid it of the high ammonia counts and other toxins..............yet not wanting to go too far that direction, as to dehydrate Mike, especially since he's eating and drinking very little. It's such a delicate balance.

I'm so grateful for a Merciful Savior. I'm so grateful for a wonderful doctor. I'm so grateful for good news. And I'm so grateful for each and everyone of you.

We have been blessed to have Mike feeling good for three days in a row!

He woke up this morning wanting to go to Cracker Barrel for breakfast. He didn't eat everything, but made a good dent with what was on his plate. Afterwards, we went by to visit with his mom briefly, whom he hasn't seen since Mother's Day. I know that made her happy, but I could also see the pain on her face, noting the amount of weight Mike has lost since she last saw him.

After a nice long nap, Mike shared some time in the afternoon visiting with our former family doctor who is now retired. That time meant so much to Mike. He loved the fellowship, chatting about different topics, shared health challenges, their shared interest in woodworking. Mike hopes to share more time with him.

So tomorrow is only a few hours away and I'm already shaking inside. I guess with as many things that have gone wrong with Mike's health the last couple of months, I'm fearing "stop the heart" kind of bad news. I'm trying to exercise my faith and trust God to help us through all of this, but tonight feels a little scary...and calm seems almost impossible.

I don't know what to do with these feelings, other than turn them over to praising God. I'm so grateful for these wonderful three days God has blessed us with, in Mike feeling better. I will continue to Praise God for His mercifulness, grace and constant blessing in our life. And ALL of you have made such a difference in our life. Thank you with every breath that is in us!

Mike and I were expecting some sort of set back today, since lately he takes one step forward, and two back. But Mike had another good day today. We went to church, even though it was the second service, instead of our usual earlier one. Mike felt so grateful to be in God's house, and to listen to the sermon. The only problem he had was becoming extremely achy sitting in the pew, with nothing more than bone meeting wood. I've talked him into letting me bring a blanket or pillow for him next time. He hates to do anything that would draw any attention to himself, but I feel he needs to let that go and be comfortable.

Today, I've been overwhelmingly grateful, reflecting on all of our family and friends. In church, I would see one person after another who have gone way out of their way to say hello to us, who have sacrificed on our behalf, and who care so deeply. Mike and I wish we could just thank you over and over again, for going the extra mile for us. Your visits to the hospital, your prayers over Mike and our family, your cards or emails of encouragement, your responding to needs we didn't know how to solve, your simple reminders "I'm praying for you!", just replay over and over again in our hearts.

And our children and grandchildren..........there is nothing more perious than a night like last night with them. They have had a lot to weather with this situation, being young adults and new parents. They have had to fill in so many times when Mike and I haven't been able to do things. But they have also had to face the constant fear of losing their dad, and emotionally, their mom. That is a heavy load for them to carry.

Mike and I stand amazed when we go to a church service we usually don't attend at that hour, and people walk up to us and tell us they have been reading this blog and praying for us. You could never know how comforting and tender that is to us. To not be forgotten and to be blessed by someone reaching out to us and introducing themselves. At times like these, people can generally walk away from those struggling with heavy situations in their lives. They don't want to become involved for many reasons. Mike and I feel so blessed that you haven't walk away from us and you're ready and anxious to stand in the gap on our behalf. We are so blessed!!!

We wait apprehensively for Tuesday morning. I will be honest and admit Mike and I are filled with fear. It is going to be difficult getting up that morning, and sitting in the waiting room to be called back, and waiting to hear what we're going to be told. The appointment is around 8:30 a.m. We would appreciate your holding us up with your prayers for that doctor appointment.

After such an awful day for Mike Friday, Saturday turned out to be better. He asked me late this morning if it would be possible to have his grandbabies over, so he could see them and hold them. So I got a hold of the kids, who happened to be free this evening, and we had homemade pizza. It was a fun evening watching the grandsons playing and the children visiting together. Mike was able to eat a little bit of food, and even followed the children and grandchildren over to the studio, for them to play Mike's drums, Air Hockey, and Foosball. At one point, Mike even sat behind the drums and played a couple of songs, while the grandsons danced around. It was such a tender site and the smile on Mike's face was priceless.

The familiar, and a chance to just escape back into old times, was so precious. We have all been so homesick for our normal life. I know I wasn't the only one with tears welled up in my eyes as I was taking in the moment. I wish we could stay in that moment forever.

First thing Tuesday morning we will have the doctor appointment with the oncologist to receive the scan results. As you can imagine....each day closer sucks the breath out of us, as we fear hearing what the results are. I pray God will give Mike and I the strength to hear whatever we're told.

I also pray for many more days like today, with Mike and the children.

The picture above is a few years old, but it is one of Mike, with his sister Lynne, and her husband, Charlie. Charlie and Lynne are retired and presently live in New Hampshire, but they called today to let us know their home finally sold (after a couple of years being on the market), and they are headed this way. They should arrive September 10th. They will stay in our studio/guest house, until they find a home they want to buy. I can't begin to share how relieved I am. It is going to be a comfort having them near.

Mike didn't have a good night last night, or a good day today. In fact, he has been in bed ever since I left at lunch time. He's hardly eaten anything. He's nauseated and exhausted.

This morning after I went to work, he came downstairs to make himself some hot tea, and forgot to check to see if there was water in the teapot. He turned the stove on, and after several minutes, it blackened my pot and the house began to smell horrible. That was when he realized what was happening. I'm really getting nervous leaving him alone right now. He just hasn't been completely with it these last few days. I pray he improves soon.

Thank you for your thoughts, prayers, and encouragement.

Anyone who knows Mike well, knows he loves his "lap" dog, Chloe! She's 35 pounds of pure love, and Mike adores her. She is a Cocker Spaniel, although she's overdue for a haircut. I decided to post a picture of her this evening, because Mike had a confession for me when I got home from work today.

Everyday I work, I come home at lunch, to make sure Mike has something to eat. Today, as I was trying to leave to return to work, I let out Chloe, and her sister, Hailey. We have a fenced in area for the dogs to go outside alone, but as Chloe and Hailey age (they will be 8 this Halloween), they've either become hard of hearing...or have developed the talent of ignoring me when I try to call them back inside. So Mike knew I was trying to hang around long enough to let the doggies do their business, so I could bring them back inside, and Mike wouldn't have to mess with them until I got home from work. But Mike encouraged me to leave them out for a little while, and told me he would bring them back inside in just a few minutes.

Chloe and Hailey are not your typical dogs. They are inside dogs for sure, and the only reason they like to tarry outside, is to chase lizards. (they rarely are successful) Well, today they had the opportunity to chase lizards for 3 hours...without water....in the hot sun, with 88 degree temps. Mike forgot all about our conversation at lunch, and didn't remember them being outside until he wandered around the house looking for them. :(

I should have thought about that before I left to return to work. With this ammonia build up in Mike's blood, it causes him to become disoriented and confused. I was concerned about what happened to the dogs, but it caused me to become more concerned with leaving Mike home alone. I'm probably going to need to have a back up system in place until I'm sure he's getting better again.

Mike actually had a better day today. He wasn't up before I went to work, but I quickly changed his dressing and persuaded him to drink an Ensure, to give him his morning medications. I told him to stay in bed until I got home at lunch (because we have a 2-story home), but I came home and found Mike downstairs and he also had scrambled himself 3 eggs for lunch. I was pleased that he was hungry, but silently worried he came downstairs alone, and had operated the stove. I decided to just celebrate that he felt well enough to eat. This evening he ate a full dinner and snacked on chocolate chip cookies later. So that's a praise for an increased appetite! Yay!!! :)

Now to the not so good news........
At lunch, I learned that Mike's middle drain (or the left one that doesn't really do much), became unattached and pulled out about 2 inches. Mike told me he actually tried to push it back into him (yeah..I know...freaky!), but it only went in an inch..and then by the time I got home from work, it had slid back out. So...that means we'll be making another trip to Baptist probably Monday. Mike had been scratching at that site in his sleep the past week, so it didn't surprise me that this happened. I was hoping I was preventing that from occurring, but I guess not.

Anyway...I praise God and thank all of you, for your prayers, and our mini-victories.

Now about me............ :)
After several incomplete weeks of work for me (due to our little interruptions with Mike's health lately)....I'm celebrating that things are finally clicking with me in my new job, and in my using the new software. I felt like I crossed a big threshold today at work, and I'm praying I will continue to learn, and God will bless my service there. This church family has been so understanding and so loving. It is a precious gift having this job. Please continue to pray for me and Mike, especially the next couple of weeks, as the pastor of this church, and his wife, will be away for two weeks on vacation. My prayer is that Mike will continue to improve, and I will be able to fulfill my position at this job, while the pastor is away.

Thank you for being such a blessing to Mike, our family, and me.

Mike got his CT's done this morning, but not without trouble. In LR, their process for doing a CT at the oncologists office, is to fast after midnight the night before the test. Then the morning of the procedure, they have you drink two regular size bottles of water, instead of giving you any special contrast to drink. Mike was having trouble drinking his two bottles of water, but they let him drink as much of the two, that he possibly could, which ended up being most of them both. As they were running the CT's, Mike ended up vomiting the water up about a third of the way into the testing. They went on ahead with the scans, and hopefully they were able to get the pictures they needed, but it just goes to show the difficultly Mike is having, putting anything on his stomach.


I noticed on the way to Little Rock this morning, the symptoms of the ammonia build up in Mike has begun again. Mike was having hallucinations while sleeping in the car. He would all of a sudden, begin trying to grab at things out in front of him or off to the side. His body was also doing the more visible twitching, that had been gone for a couple of weeks. The symptoms even were pronounced to Mike, while I left him in the car alone. He woke himself up a couple of times trying to grab for things that weren't there.


It may sound funny, and we've certainly tried laughing it off a couple of times ourselves, but it is a very scary thing to see. These are the type of symptoms Mike has which can worsen into the Hepatic Enchephalapathy. Please pray that we're doing enough to prevent this from getting worse and out of control.


Also, please pray that the results from the CT scan's would be good and clear, and can give us a good idea of how to pursue treatment, without further harm to Mike.

We were called this evening by the oncologist. They gave him a preliminary report. Mike has another blood clot, this time in the area of were the drains are. At first, he was going to have to go back on injections in his stomach and increase the Coumadin (blood thinner) medication, but after a couple of confusing phone calls, the doctor called back and is keeping everything as it initially was this morning. BUT.........this may be the reason why Mike has been feeling so much pain in his right side, back, and being unable to eat or drink much. It's a little scary with two blood clots found. I just pray we can quickly resolve these issues and Mike will begin to feel better soon. He is so tired and weary. And so are the kids and I.

Thank you for continuing to pray for all of us.

P.S. I set up a way to reply to the comments some of you have left on our blog. Because I usually have the most current post only showing, I often don't get to respond quickly enough so you might see. So I have set up a guestbook to the side "Sign Our Guestbook", not only for you to leave messages there if you would like, but for me to also leave a comment to your comments, up and visible longer than just one day. ;) I hope that makes sense!

Mike saw his oncologist this morning. He would like to have a better idea of what is going on inside Mike. So, Mike will have a CT scan of his chest, abdomen and pelvis, tomorrow morning in LR. We will not receive any of those results until next week, when we return to his oncologists office.

A chest xray was done on Mike this morning and it showed there is fluid in Mike's lungs, but we're holding off doing anything until we get the scan results next week. The doctor would like to know "why" there is fluid there.

An ammonia test was ran on Mike's blood work today and it indicated ammonia levels are building back up again in Mike's abdomen. Mike will need to resume one of the drugs he had stopped taking that helps get rid of this. Ammonia building up quickly, can turn into the Hepatic Encephalopathy, which is definitely NOT what we want to happen. It not only landed Mike in the hospital the last time, but it also can cause permanent damage. Instead of Mike needing to take this medicine 3 times a day, like initially prescribed,....or once a day, as Mike and his oncologist had come to an agreement about....Mike will only need to take this twice a week. Mike was relieved to hear that. Mike doesn't like the taste of this medicine and had stopped taking it altogether. So, he'll be getting back on that.

The doctor is also very concerned about Mike's loss of weight. Mike knows what he needs to do, but his body isn't wanting to cooperate. He feels constantly full, when he's hardly eaten anything. If he forces food down, his body tries to vomit it back up. We're just in a more precarious position than we would like to be right now, with his weight. Mike needs strength to fight his cancer, and a strong body to hold up, when undergoing treatment. So somehow, someway, we need to pray for Mike's appetite to be stimulated and increased.

Mike had a very low moment today after the doctor visit. I think he misunderstood something the doctor said, and he battled with that conversation most of the afternoon. As hard as you try to shake it off... Some days can just be harder than other days, and things can quickly get upside down, without effort. We would appreciate your prayers as we continue to deal with all of this....the physical symptoms, the political nonsense with insurance companies, doctor bills, etc., and just the delicate walk of keeping the right attitude and perspective.

Mike can react to something the doctor says....I will react to whatever Mike is feeling, and the downward spiral can just get out of hand fast. We desperately need God's strength and peace, to weather everything we're going through. We're only human, and we're not going to stay on top of things all the time. There is so much pressure, it can get a little heavy at times, just trying to live life as "normal" as possible...when everything is far from normal. Everything can look a little different from our perspective. We need lots of grace, mercy, and patience.

So, that's where we're at, right now. We would appreciate your prayers so much. Thank you for your sweet cards, comforting words and encouragement. We need all of you so much, and want you to know how much your friendship and love mean to us.

Mike slept a lot today, but he woke up feeling better. The pain had subsided some. We went on ahead and called the oncologists office. We have an appointment tomorrow morning, after Mike goes to the hospital for labwork and a chest xray. We hope to find out if this pain has anything to do with Mike's lungs, is a muscle strain, or if it involves anything new.

Next week, Mike is scheduled for a CT scan. Our prayer is for the tumor to be smaller, or stable, so Mike can have a little more time to get better before starting treatments again.

We appreciate your prayers so much. I especially want many of you to know how much your comments have meant to me. Some days are hard to get through. It's nice to get a note, an email, or a comment, knowing you're on some one's mind, and they are thinking about you and praying. Thank you!

"Those who bring sunshine to the lives of others cannot keep it from themselves." James M. Barrie

Just a quick update............(new update- we have an appointment tomorrow at 8 a.m.)

Mike and I are both feeling better this morning. Phenegren, and good nights rest took care of my problem, and Mike's side has improved.

We called the doctors office this morning to see if Mike needed to be seen by his oncologist about his back pain, but we learned the oncologists schedule is packed, and because Mike isn't running a temperature, there is less concern to get him in right away. They are to call us back at some point....likely at the end of the day.

I appreciate your prayers and hope you will continue to pray for Mike. It's just been a wild and unpredictable ride.

"God does notice us, and He watches over us. But it is usually through another person that He meets our needs." Spencer W. Kimball

Tomorrow we hope to find out what may be causing Mike's pain in his back. It continues to be a problem for him.

Please pray for Mike to be protected from any illnesses. There seems to be a few things going around, and I feel as though I might be coming down with something. I worry at Mike's weight and condition, even something minor, may become a problem for him.

"The lives that have been the greatest blessing to you are the lives of those people who themselves were unaware of having been a blessing." Oswald Chambers

Mike continues to experience pain in the right side of his back. As long as he doesn't move, he's comfortable. Otherwise, it's painful for him to stand up, to sit down, or to walk. It also hurts when he coughs. I recommended Mike calling his doctor, or going to the emergency room, but he refuses. His plan is to call his doctor Monday morning.

So many bazaar things are happening with Mike lately, as if liver cancer wasn't enough. We're growing weary of the hospitals, emergency rooms, procedure centers, etc. Just since May, Mike has had an enlarging tumor, Bacterial Peritonitis, Hepatic Encephalopathy, DVT Blood Clot in his subclavian vein, and blocked biliary tubes. Pretty severe incidents. When is enough...ENOUGH?!

I suppose I need prayer myself, for perseverance. I'm running a little on empty lately.

And I would ask that you keep Mike in your prayers concerning this new pain he's having. For Mike to "want" to have a thoracentesis (procedure to remove fluid from his lungs), you can imagine he's pretty uncomfortable.

We just pray for deliverance soon.

Overnight, Mike developed a sharp pain on his right side wrapping around to his back. He asked me to pack an overnight bag this morning, certain we would need to stay overnight at Baptist. We called the oncologist, who was in LR today, and asked him if he felt anything more needed to be looked into.

All that was done today, was the biliary exchange. They told us the drain was completely blocked, and they felt this was the problem, with the pain in both the front and back. Everything went well with the procedure. Mike's blood pressure was low at first, but when checked again, came up enough to let them numb him for the procedure. It lasted about 1 1/2 hours. We were out of the center by 4 p.m., and out of LR before the traffic got too heavy.

I'm thankful everything went smoothly and I appreciate everyone praying for us. I'm a little concerned this evening, since Mike still has this pain in his back, when he tries to stand, or sit up. We'll just keep a sharp eye on it over the weekend. At least the oncologist is aware of it, if we need to call.

Here We Go Again!

Just wanted to ask for every one's prayers, as Mike and I go to Baptist tomorrow, for an earlier than planned biliary exchange. When I came home at lunch today, to check on Mike, it was clear that the right biliary drain stopped working. We tried a few things to see if we could delay things until Monday, but Mike soon called me back at work, letting me know it needed to be done tomorrow. It "should be" pretty routine, although Mike has been on blood thinners for a few weeks now. We are halting those this evening, hoping for it to allow things to go smoothly tomorrow.

Please pray for there to be minimal bleeding. Unfortunately, we're having some bleeding already this evening. It seems intermittent, so we're trusting it will be alright until morning.

Also, please pray for Mike's blood pressure. If it's low, they won't give him any pain reliever for the procedure, and it is a pretty uncomfortable exchange. Mike has also been dehydrated, so that also can result in a lower blood pressure.

Thank you so much for your prayers.

"Help me, Lord, not to be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present my requests to You. And Your peace, O God, which transcends all understanding, will guard my heart and my mind in Christ Jesus. " Phil. 4:6-7

Peace is not a smooth, untroubled river beneath a sunlit sky, serene and warm... The peaceful heart is like a trusting songbird who clings to hope and sings throughout the storm. -BJ Hoff

I have a dear friend whose life has been turned upside down recently, as much as mine has. Both of us, never thought we would be wrestling with the kind of pain we're dealing with today. Unimaginable pain! My heart breaks for her. I pray everyone who reads this blog would also lift a prayer for her and her family too, that she would experience the warmth and comfort of friendship, and be surrounded by peace, only God can give.

We met in the spring of our walk with the Lord. Shared the same first name, shared a deep friendship for a season, then parted ways, to follow and serve Him. I moved to Texas. She moved to Africa. After years of being out of contact, we've recently become reacquainted. Life is a little different now. We're both a little older...have witnessed many blessings, but recently have had the wind knocked out of us. We're both holding shattered dreams in our hands, wondering if we're going to survive. So many people are counting on us to survive. But the battle can get hard, and there are days when it would seem easier to just lay down and give up. There can be such deep loneliness when everything rests on your shoulders.

I'm grateful that God is bigger than anything that can happen to us. I'm relieved to know He'll never change. That He will never leave our side. That when we think we have reached the end of ourselves, He always sends someone to our side, to help carry us further.

I'm so grateful for all of you, whom God has sent to Mike's and my side. I praise Him for His comfort; His provision, His tender mercy. Please wrap your prayers around my dear friend, Bev. I would be deeply grateful.

Mike had a good day today. It was the first in several weeks that he got up, got dressed, and decided he wanted to eat breakfast at Cracker Barrel with his daughter and grandson. I celebrated and trembled all at the same time. Here someone was driving, whom I have been holding up lately, when he walks. I was glad to see the Miata parked safely in the garage when I came home at lunch to check on him.

The oncology lab called Mike today to let him know his Potassium level was elevated. They wanted to know what medications he might be taking that could possibly cause this. When Mike first relayed the message, he said his "protein" level was high, which had me concerned, because that was a term used often with the Ascites problem Mike experienced several weeks ago. But, we got the right word, and realized his Potassium level was probably high, because he had been prescribed Potassium to take. :) This was going to be an easy fix!!!

Mike had the best day that I've seen him experience in such a long time. It was such a blessing to see him doing well. Thank you so much for your prayers!

Today was one of those days when you expected more from an appointment than you got, and it wasn't because the doctor didn't spend enough time with you, because he did.

Mike had blood work done this morning, and he also saw his internist. Outside of updating the doctor, little was said or done. Maybe that is all there is...but I just came away feeling like we accomplished very little.

Regarding the fluid in Mike's lungs--it was confirmed "Yes, there is still fluid there." It wasn't suggested for Mike to have them drained though, because it generally returns. I guess the hope is, Mike's body will absorb some of this fluid eventually...for example, back into his blood vessels.

Regarding the loss of weight--According to their scales from last week, Mike has lost 8 pounds, which the doctor is attributing to access fluid lost. So his inability to eat more than what he does, didn't seem to be any alarm.

A lot of questions were raised as to how Mike got into this downward spiral. We mentioned the new form of chemotherapy he had started, and which seemed to get out of control. The doctor really just listened...but said very little.

Regarding Mike going to get an intravenous infusion---it was suggested that we shouldn't! That the sodium in the saline may be contributing to Mike's fluid retention. His advice was to let the body try and adjust back to normal.

We learned Mike's official diagnosis from this previous hospitalization (before the blood clot) was Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis, which then sent him into hepatic failure (Hepatic Encephalopathy). Thankfully, the intravenous antibiotics improved things, as well as some other intervention, to remove the ammonia out of Mike's system. We were cautioned to notify them as quickly as possible if any of these symptoms present themselves again, for example: fever, pain or increased swelling in the abdomen, mental confusion, low blood pressure, etc. Otherwise, they will see us after August 5th, when Mike will see his oncologist next.

We have a tentative appointment to have a biliary exchange next Monday in LR. We're hoping Mike being on Coumadin will not create any problems.

I'm learning quickly, forget specific prayer! ;) Mike just needs to be covered head to toe, in prayer. The simpliest of things seem to get way out of control, with him. My little heart can't handle many more of these kind of frights. Just lather him up with prayer and you'll keep a smile on my face! ;) Thank you for continuing to bless us!

"Because He bends down and listens, I will pray as long as I have breath!" Psalm 116:2

A dear friend shared this verse with me last week. It resonates what my heart continues to tell me. God loves us. He is always with us. Just as a loving father would kneel down to listen to his child, so does our Savior, listen to our trusting hearts. I pray it is within His will for Mike to be healed and restored to full health.

Mike has been able to stay up and awake over the weekend. He isn't doing much more than sitting, but he is staying awake. I think when I'm away, he tends to sleep the time away. When he's sleeping, he eats less. He didn't eat a lot yesterday, but he did get 2 meals down, and had another Ensure. Last night for dinner, all he wanted was soup. It was 250 calories, but Mike only ate half of that.

I could hear a rattle coming from Mike's lungs as he was breathing while he was sleeping this morning. He must have a lot of fluid building up. His blood pressure was also down this morning to 86/52, which leads me to think he's dehydrated. Mike has developed a rash on his back and is experiencing a lot of itching. It could be that his bilirubin count is escalated again, but generally when he experiences itching from that, it is all over his body. Mike doesn't want to do anything today, to have things checked out being, he has a doctor appointment for tomorrow morning with the internist.

I've been experiencing some flare symptoms myself, but I've given my body what it's needed the last few days.....some extra rest. There is always another day to "catch" up.

Mike and I continue to praise God, for everyone He has sent our way, who has come along side us, and lightened our burden. He has faithfully provided for each need we've had. We also praise Him for the family and friends who have encircled us, reminding us we're not alone in all of this. It can be a frightening journey at times. Some days, it takes all we have to just put one foot in front of the other.

Everyday is a surprise in what battle Mike has to fight. Today, Mike's eyes are very bloodshot and his veins in his chest and abdomen area are bright blue. I suppose this clot is still causing Mike's blood to find another route.

We made a tiny progress with food and fluids today. Mike ate 3 small meals today, and he had an Ensure shake. It was enough for me to do a little happy dance. :) He still seems dehydrated to me, but we'll leave that diagnosis for the doctor on Monday. The unbelievable, constant indigestion and hiccups still plague Mike. I hate seeing him suffer with this.

Mike asked me to take a short walk up our driveway this evening when it cooled off. I held on to him tightly because he was very wobbly and walked sideways at times. His balance has been off since he came out of the hospital. He couldn't go far because of shortness of breath.

All in all though, it was a good day and I enjoyed sharing time with Mike.

Zac and I got outside this morning and took care of the tree limbs that we needed to burn. It was quite a workout.....most especially for me......but we had it done pretty quickly. I would be lost without my kids help. I have had to lean so hard on them the past two years.

Monday marks the two year anniversary of this all starting. It has been such a hard two years, and it has stretched me to the point where I've doubted God had any idea, of how much I could take. It has been extremely difficult seeing Mike become so thin and frail. I don't want to lose Mike. I cling to every hope that God can turn this around for us. I would never be the same without him.

We are blessed to have your love, your prayers and your support.

Last night Amber and Zac invited Mike and I over for dinner, so Mike had a little "Ethan time" and I know that lifted Mike's spirits. Then this evening Matt and Drew stopped in, so Mike got a little bit of "Drew Time". After Jill got off work, she brought Quizno sandwiches for all of us for supper. We felt spoiled! That was a big help, after a full day of work. Initially, Mike was wanting nothing more than a Tuna Fish sandwich for dinner. I'm afraid I'm going to forget how to cook!

Mike attempted to eat part of his sandwich tonight, but actually only ended up eating just a few bites. It's troubling me how little he is eating. He tells me if he tries to eat more, he feels stuffed and miserable, so the only things that seem to appeal to him lately, and do best, are soup, scrambled eggs, mashed potatoes, small bites of chicken, and Italian food. I'm trying to push Ensure shakes at him, but when I'm home at lunch, he tells me he's too full to drink one. I understand that, so I suggest he drink a shake around 10 and 3, but most times he forgets.

I'm afraid he has become dehydrated again. I can tell by the sound of his voice. I'm going to lean on him over the weekend, to drink more but I have a feeling he will need to get Intravenous fluids at the beginning of next week regardless.

I actually worked a full work week for me, for the first time since I was hired (May). FBCR has been so understanding and patient with me, as I've dealt with the recent hospitalizations with Mike. My mind as been so divided learning this new job. I'm blessed to work with such wonderful, supportive, and understanding staff. This job came from God's hand, and I'm so grateful. I want nothing more than to be a blessing to them.

I'm excited though, to have a couple of days off, so I can catch up on house work, paper work, and maybe even a little lawn work, if the weather isn't too hot. And I'm hoping my high strung Cocker Spaniels will allow me to sleep beyond 5:45 a.m. for a change. I really could use a good nights rest to recharge!

It would be such a blessing if you could pray for Mike's hunger and thirst to increase, and that he would not suffer constant indigestion and hiccups after he eats (despite 2 Nexium). These hiccups have been keeping us both awake lately.

I'm so grateful to know so many of you continue to open your heart to me, being a shoulder I can lean on, and an ear to listen, as I voice my fears and struggles. I know so many of you want to help us, and would like for us to speak up, and let you know what our needs are. But, it's hard to know what to ask for, when my mind is just full of so many concerns. The little things do so much. Your sweet notes encourage our hearts. You already are a blessing, and I'm deeply grateful for every act of love.

Thank you so much for your prayers and words of encouragement. The days have been so busy for me lately. I'm trying to learn a new job, keep up with things at home, and deal with the recent set backs of Mike's health, in addition to my own health issues. I'm trying to adjust, and do well most days. I've just had a few moments when everything has felt like it's running over the top of me. Thank you for your understanding and patience.

Mike felt better today. To be honest, I'm guessing on what is working, and what isn't. When Mike complained of being short of breath yesterday, I figured returning to a compromise of the dosages of diuretics, would possibly help. Dr. Hill had Mike on three kinds of diuretics coming out of the hospital a couple of weeks back. Dr. Sneed reduced the amounts before he left for Turkey on his vacation, because Mike became too dehydrated. So, I tried to find the middle of those two dosages...and Mike seems to be improving. At least, it seems that way this evening.

I had a little bit of a scare this morning trying to get Mike to take his morning medications. He wasn't crazy about taking one of the diuretics, Lactulose....and accidentally spilled it all over the bed. As Mike was trying to step out of the way for me to clean that up, I noticed his stomach appeared a little enlarged. I was afraid the Ascites was returning. But when I came home at lunch to check on Mike, and get him some lunch, his stomach looked normal for him. So I don't think we have anything to worry about. Mike will be seen by Dr. Berner Tuesday, and I plan on discussing the changes in medications with him to see what he recommends Mike to do. It is probable that Mike will need to have fluid drained from one or both lungs, but we're hoping it can be done as an outpatient procedure.

Mike isn't eating well and he's decided not to push eating more than what he feels like...which isn't much. I don't feel there is anything I can do to persuade him differently. I feel I can only force him to do so much. He is very thin and very weak. He's unable to drive. He barely can walk up and down the stairs. He's unable to go to physical therapy. He sleeps most of the day. He even seems to be disengaging himself around family to a certain extent, which is troubling for me. I'm not seeing the fight in him as much. I know he's tired, and feels beaten down, by the events recently with his health. He gets upset when he sees me trying to do everything. Nothing I say seems to help comfort him. He will put more of an effort on around the kids and grandkids. I would just appreciate your continued prayers for him.

Ambermarie is doing better. Her hand ended up burned pretty good, but it could have been much worse. She is feeling better this evening.

As always, thank you for your thoughts, prayers, and interest in our situation. We are blessed to have so many dear friends and family.

"I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the Lord!" Psalm 27:13-14

It has been one of those days...when you wonder just how far life is going to push you! I've been hoping it isn't over the edge today. So many little challenges have been going on all day long, that I've stopped trying to make sense of it all, and just thank God for seeing me through one more day. I know there are lessons here, I'm sure. It's just a little hard figuring them out with so much going on.

Amber had to go to the emergency room this evening. First off....it wasn't serious. But the poor thing was trying to help Mike and I out, by making us dinner, and accidentally burned her hand pretty badly. I still don't have an update on how it's going down there. I stayed with her for a little while, until Zac came with Ethan. Then I volunteered to take Ethan home to see Papa McSheehy. Zac just picked him up and Amber was the next to be seen at the ER. The dinner was yummy, although I'm sure that doesn't make Amber's hand feel any better. ;)

Mike isn't feeling well. He is having trouble breathing today. We're concerned that the fluid building up in his lungs has increased. He didn't want to call the doctor today, so that may be what we're doing first thing tomorrow morning. It doesn't seem like we're getting many days in a row of Mike feeling good. That ominous cloud seems to be hovering over our shoulder. The weight of it all is just a little heavy tonight. I miss days of just planning a vacation, or even repainting a room just for the fun of it. Life hasn't been the same in two years, and the future can be too scary to imagine.

I would appreciate your continued prayers for Mike, for Amber, for me and my family. Thank you for never tiring of me asking you this.

"Though I am surrounded by troubles, You will bring me safely through them." Psalm 138:7

Mike had his blood work this morning and saw the Internist. They are increasing the Coumadin dosage slightly this week. We were not given the results of the other blood work but know we'll be contacted if there is anything significant.

The doctor listened to Mike's lungs and believes fluid is beginning to build up in them. Mike had gained a few pounds, and instead of it meaning this was true weight Mike has gained, the doctor feels it is fluid weight. Mike persuaded the doctor to let it ride for a week, and it must not be too concerning, or I would think he wouldn't have listened to Mike. He told Mike the increased fluid could be why he's feeling some discomfort under his arm, and on his right side where the biliary drain is. It also explains his shortness of breath.

The bruising effect across Mike's upper chest is blood rushed capillaries, because the blood is trying to find away around the blockage. The doctor didn't seem concerned, but he did check Mike over pretty well, and wants to see him again next Tuesday. Mike has also developed a rash across his back. Although the doctor seemed a little puzzled, he was not concerned.

So this turned out to be the only appointment Mike will have to have this week, because we were able to get the oncology blood work, and this other ProTime blood work, done at the same time, as well as seeing the Internist because of this discoloration across Mike's upper right chest.

Mike has had little energy today and hasn't eaten very well. He did come downstairs later in the afternoon when Amber and Ethan visited. I was thankful to see Mike up and moving around a little.

I made the decision to reattach Mike's drain this evening because of some changes I've been noticing when I'm changing out the dressing. I'm hoping we can correct things and avoid another biliary exchange so soon.

Thank you for your unfailing love, encouragement and prayers.

It's been a busy day for me. I decided to do some lawn work. One thing led to another, and before I knew it, I had been out there working for six hours. I wrestled with a couple of tree limbs we lost in the storm. I have a feeling I'm going to be a little sore tomorrow. They were heavier than they looked. I popped inside the house, from time to time, to check on Mike though.

Mike spent most of the day in bed. When he took his shower this afternoon, we noticed a large bruise across his upper left chest....measuring about 5 inches wide and about 1 inch deep. That is the same area where his port is, for treatments, but it is also the same side the blood clot was located. We called the doctor and they believe it is fine, but they want to check it out tomorrow when he goes in for his INR test, at the clinic. Mike's arm still looks swollen. Maybe a little more so. Part of that bruising goes across to his shoulder area and Mike is also experiencing a little discomfort under his arm on that same side.

Other than the above, Mike has been okay. He didn't eat very much today, and had to take some Phenegran and Hydrocodone today, for pain and nausea. He went over to the studio for a few minutes this evening, which is a positive sign.

We would appreciate your continued prayers for Mike. That this visible discoloration in his upper left chest area, isn't anything serious, and that Mike will continue to recuperate from so many days in the hospital recently. His immediate goal is to get back to physical therapy as soon as possible.

We are so blessed by your thoughts and prayers.

"Never tire of loyalty and kindness. Hold these virtues tightly. Write them deep within your heart. If you want favor with both God and man, and a reputation for good judgment and common sense, then trust the Lord completely; don't ever trust yourself. In everything you do, put God first and he will direct you and crown your efforts with success." Proverbs 3:3-6

Mike was able to get some real rest last night, even though he woke up in the middle of the night throwing up. We're not really sure what is causing this. It's happened a handful of times. What I have observed, is Mike sounds congested while he's sleeping, and tries to cough, which then leads to that outcome. Mike tells me he immediately awakens, feeling flushed or hot, and then instantly becomes sick to his stomach. Anyway, he woke up fine this morning and has been able to eat all three meals with no problem.

Later this afternoon, Mike asked for me to help him walk over to the studio. It has been a couple of months since Mike's been over there. I left him there and came back to cook some dinner for him. He was over there for about 30 minutes and told me he played his drums. I could tell it was more of an accomplishment for Mike, than playing his drums. It was like the first step back to recovery for him. I pray he will do well enough the next few weeks so he can heal, gain strength, and possibly return to physical therapy soon.

I'm so thankful for God bringing him home from the hospital and to see Mike feeling better. He's weak, but he looks the best I've seen him in weeks. I pray he gains some more strength and weight, so that when August rolls around; he might be able to take chemotherapy treatments to continue fighting this tumor. I pray God will completely cover Mike with protection for the cancer he's fighting, his heart complications with these blockages he's developed, and that his biliary drains will continue to function correctly. I pray that through all of this, God would be glorified, and be given all the praise and adoration He deserves, for bringing us through this as far as we've come. He has met every need we've had, and has blessed us with unconditional love and support from all of you. I pray Mike and I have been able to share how deeply important, each of you have been to us. Our hearts are so full of gratitude.

Coming up this week, Mike has a INR test Tuesday morning to check the Prothrombin Time, the ability of his blood clotting correctly. Then he is suppose to have additional labs done Wednesday for the oncologist. On Thursday, he will meet with the internist to see if there is anything more we need to be doing about this blood clot in Mike's subclavian vein, to prevent a Pulmonary Embolism from developing. Hopefully, the Coumadine level will be sufficient in preventing Mike's blood from forming any additional blood clots.

Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.

"Lord, in my heart I plan my course, but You determine my steps. (Proverbs 16:9) Life is not going as we planned. We are so grateful that You are not caught off guard. You know everything that would befall us. Please direct our steps as You determine. We need You, Lord. Carry us when we cannot walk."

Just wanted to let everyone know, I just brought Mike home from the hospital. (3 p.m.) His arm is still swollen and it may take some time for that to improve. He is giving himself shots twice a day in the stomach, to help thin his blood, and he will be taking Coumadin once a day. We were told his body will need to dissolve the clot on its own. He will have his labs done Tuesday morning to check his INR, and will be seen by the internist Thursday.

Mike's appetite seems better and he told me on the way home that he feels better...with the exception of just feeling tired. We have plans to spend this evening at Matt and Jill's with the grandbabies and other family....which will be more medicine for Mike. ;)

Thank you for thinking about us and continuing to pray. We would especially ask that you pray this clot will quickly dissolve without any incident for Mike.

Happy Fourth of July!

Dear Family and Friends,

Mike is resting easy in the hospital. They have him comfortable and they are working on resolving this issue with the blood clot in Mike's subclavian vein. I'm so grateful for your prayers, and God's hand, on the situation we found ourselves in last night.

Mike's left arm had begun to swell, hurt, and turn colors early Thursday morning. I didn't find out that was going on until 7 p.m. Thursday night, because Mike didn't want to worry anyone.

When I came home from work yesterday, I found Mike asleep back upstairs in bed. I was somewhat surprised because I had told him not to climb down, or up, the stairs without me to help him. He has a risk of falling. So when I found him upstairs, I knew right away, Mike wasn't feeling well. I let him sleep for 2 1/2 hours and finally woke him up around 7 p.m., to give him his evening medications and something to eat. In the process of getting together his medications, he called out to me in a familiar voice, which let me know right away something wasn't right.

When Mike showed me his arm, we both knew what those symptoms meant. The cardiologists in Houston, last October, told us to be on the look out for those particular symptoms. We knew Mike's subclavian artery was completely blocked, and we knew everyone was sitting on that discovery, because Mike hasn't been strong enough for general anesthesia. We knew these symptoms would result in us getting to the emergency room without question.

Mike's delay though, put us in a little bit of a bad situation. Because I wasn't aware of his symptoms, offices were now closed, we were facing a holiday the next day, and Mike's main doctor was on his way to Turkey. Also, while Mike was sleeping upstairs, I had made the decision to take my own evening medications, which includes three prescription pills, to help me sleep. So, trying to figure out which emergency room to head to...in the back of my mind, I was trying to determine if I could safely drive us to Little Rock.

God really had His hand on us, because St. Mary's was able to handle the situation here, Amber was available to help me, the blockage didn't end up being where we feared it was, so the treatment wasn't going to be anything to really fear. It was such an immediate answer to prayer! Thank you for covering us so completely, time and time again.

Mike is suppose to be released from the hospital tomorrow, if everything goes well. He will be on Coumadin for awhile and either he or I, will be giving him Lovenox injections into his stomach, twice each day. This is suppose to help thin out Mike's blood and dissolve this clot. It is uncertain how long he'll need the injections at this point...but maybe only for a week or two. His arm is even more swollen this afternoon, but we're sure everyone is keeping a close eye on Mike, and he should be fine.

Please continue to remember us in your prayers. As you already know, things change fast around here, and Mike's health is in such a constant, delicate position. We need your arrow prayers more now, than ever.

"May the Lord of peace Himself, give you peace at all times, in every way." 2 Thessalonians 3:15

Prayer Request

UPDATE: My dad has been admitted to St. Mary's due to a DVT (deep vein thrombosis) clot in his subclavian vein. This is still very serious, so they are giving him blood thinner injections and also something through his IV. I believe this is only for a short while and then they'll be given in pill form. The concern is the clot breaking loose and getting into his lung. Please pray for his protection and healing and that the blood thinners will do their job and he will be safe. Needless to say we're still very concerned, but thankful it was only a clot in his vein and not the more serious matter of the previously known blockage in his subclavian artery. Please also pray that he'll get a private room as requested to keep him safe from any infections due to the state he is in. (He was put into a semi-private room around 2:45 a.m. They plan to keep him as the only patient in that room. He is in 420.)


Please keep Mike in your prayers this evening. We are having problems that could be very serious, and we'll likely be going to the emergency room...where, I don't know. But I ask that you cover him in prayers until we find out more. I'll update you when I can.

Love,
Beverly

Mike was already feeling much better this morning. I'm sorry I haven't been able to update everyone sooner. I went back to work today, and then we had Mike's appointment this afternoon. It was early evening by the time we finished.

Before he saw the oncologist today, he had another bag of Intravenous Fluids which we're hoping will help him feel much better. His weight was 136 pounds; not as low as we feared. His blood pressure was already heading back up at 101/60. His heart rate though, was 124, first thing this morning....BEFORE getting out of bed. I hate that his heart is needing to work so hard right now.

The oncologist had only good things to tell us, so we let out a huge sigh, soon after we met with him. He believes Mike's Ascites was caused by the two infections Mike had in his belly; not by the liver failing....since Mike's abdomen has returned to it's normal, skinny self. We're hoping we will be one of the few who doesn't haven't to worry about that returning.

Mike's prescriptions that he was sent home from the hospital with, has been changed. He will be taking only 20 mg. of Lasix, instead of 80 mg. a day. He will take the Lactulose only once a day, instead of three times a day. He will stop taking the Spironolactone. And he will reduce the amount of Potassium he is taking by half.

The oncologist would like Mike to rest the next 4 weeks, only having labs. On July 29th, he will have another CT scan of his abdomen and pelvis, in LR. He will then see the oncologist on August 5th to decide how we want to proceed from here. His words were "Take care of yourself over the next four weeks, and rest. We've grown very attached to you!" :)

Mike probably would have been admitted to the hospital yesterday, had not his labs turned out so well. He was severely dehydrated. The oncologist recommended we come into his office for Intravenous Fluids, as soon as we recognize the symptoms returning. We're hoping with the reduction in diuretics, we won't be having this trouble.

Thank you very much for your prayers for us. God's mercy, and your loving and faithful prayers, keep us in this fight. You are so precious to us. Thank you.

"Of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace." John 1:16 "The Lord knows not only what we need, but also what we are able to handle."