Doctor Visit

I wanted to give you an update on my dad's appointment this afternoon with his oncologist. Overall, the visit went well and was more positive than last time. Dad appears to be gaining a tiny bit of weight, so that is great news. However, he is having some difficulty swallowing so they are running some tests on Friday to see if he needs to have his esophagus dilated. (He's had this done in the past before his cancer diagnosis.)

They also ran a culture of the fluid that they drain from his stomach every night. They're checking it due to the color and appearance of the fluid. We don't have those results yet.

His liver enzymes and alkaline phosphate numbers are also quite elevated. This could be a sign of tumor growth and or increased obstruction, but they don't know that for certain, so they are going to schedule a CT sometime soon in Little Rock. So please be praying that these higher numbers are nothing to be concerned about.

They are still holding off any additional treatment at this time in order to give dad's body a chance to heal and recover from the way it reacted to the past treatments. The oncologist did mention that there are some other options that they can try, but the primary concern right now is dad regaining his strength and weight.

My mom has had a rough few weeks due to the stress of dad's illness. They are both aware of how grave dad's situation had become and it has been a long battle for both of them. The stress of it all caused my mom's illness to flare up for the first time in a long while and the lack of sleep they've both been getting has taken it's toll on them both physically and emotionally.

BUT, they are also very aware that God is in complete control of this situation. In my Beth Moore study tonight on Esther Beth made a statement:

"Every man-scheduled date subjected upon one of His children is written, not just on a doctor's calendar, a hospital's calendar, or a trial judge's calendar. It is written on God's.....Trust that time is God's alone to give."

Our family continues to trust God with everything we are facing and dealing with. We will not allow fear or doubt or another's opinion cause us to doubt in the One who controls it all. He alone has the power. So we continue to press on believing in our Heavenly Father who can do ALL things.

My parents want you to know that your prayers mean the world to them. Your encouragement and love keep them going. Please continue to give them your hugs and your support. They really need that most of all.

Change of Pace

Please remember my parents in prayer tomorrow at around noon when they are at the oncology appointment. Please pray for some positive news!

My mom has asked me to step up and help with the blog for a while so she can take a bit of a break. I'll apologize upfront because my updates will most likely be less detailed and not nearly as well written as hers have been.

I did get to see my father briefly tonight and he seemed to be doing well. I interrupted their dinner, but I did get to make sure my dad was eating to my satisfaction. He was able to make it to physical therapy this morning and told me that he felt really good while he was there. I was pleased as well to see him up and moving around more than usual.

Please remember them in prayer as they go to dad's appointment this Wednesday with his oncologist. I know these appointments can cause some worry and stress for them, so please pray for peace for them and for a good visit overall.

I will try to update you as much as I can. Thank you so much for your prayers and support for our family.

Amber

Mike is doing well and things are under control at the moment.  He is weak and has difficulty now getting up and down since his muscles have atrophied.  The other night when his grandson wanted him to get on the floor to play blocks, Mike knew if he did, it would take two of us to get him back up.  His bedsores have improved tremendously, but one of them is still fairly painful.  He constantly moves from sitting to standing, to keep comfortable.  We see the oncologist Wednesday.

Thank you for continuing to pray for us.  You have been a blessing.

Whew!  This entire week has been challenging.  I have felt all week like I've been hiking up a steep mountain, with no end in sight.  No rest for the weary!  Perhaps this weekend, I will find some time to recharge.

Mike had a good day.  In fact, he called me while I was on my way home from work to make his lunch, letting me know he had walked to the top of our driveway and back to the house all by himself!  He hasn't really been going very far without the help of someone at his side, so this is a great accomplishment.

Mike was able to have 3 meals today and a good snack.  I told him we needed to stretch that tummy out and put more into each meal.  He's trying.  Tonight his sister made him some Beef Stew which was hearty and wonderful.  She gave him a good portion, which he finished.  PTL!

Well, forgive me for keeping this update short tonight, but I'm really tired.  Thank you for your love, concern and faithful prayers.  

This afternoon Mike had me take him to the oncologist's office to get an IV of fluids.  He felt fine, but a little dehydrated.  They asked him to get bloodwork drawn before the IV.  Mike's counts were "all over the place", but they decided he needed fluids.  We didn't finish up with that until 6 p.m.

My Mucinex idea was the answer for the coughing situation.  Great stuff!  Mike sounds so much better now...and we both slept soundly....once we finally got to sleep. 

We didn't end up getting asleep until around midnight, last night, because Mike got upset after he weighed himself.  He is now down to 120 pounds, which isn't good.  I feel as though I'm constantly running to God, and all of you with these special prayer requests.....trying to put out little fires all over the place.  I now ask you to concentrate praying about Mike's weight.  He's eating...but just not enough to put weight on, and barely enough to hang on to what he has.  I pray God will cover him with protection from any viruses and Mike would eat a little more, if possible.  Tonight, he almost lost all of his dinner because of feeling over stuffed.

Thank you for your prayers for Mike and I.  Our next oncology appointment is for next Wednesday.  Please pray God will fill that exam room with His peace, and whatever comes from that meeting, would not discourage us.  We are both very fragile emotionally right now.

Mike has felt pretty good today, considering his situation.  The depression that was a little heavy yesterday, has lifted today.  It just takes a little time reconciling ourselves to life now.  It's not always easy, but we do the best we can with what we're given, and try to be grateful for what we do have.

The coughing is still an issue, but I took it upon myself to find Mike a solution since we weren't getting anywhere the other route.  I bought some Musinex and hope it will help.  At least it lasts for 12 hours, compared to the Robitussin lasting only 4.  It has the same two ingredients, only more mg.  Mike and I are looking for a good nights sleep.  Heaven knows I really need one.

My flare seems to be winding down, Praise God!  I'm still having a little trouble with the pain and exhaustion, but I'm pushing through it a little more.  Thank you for praying for me.

Mike's drainage tube is working well.  Each night we've been able to drain about 1000 ml of fluid off his abdomen.  That is keeping him comfortable, and able to eat more, without feeling like he's going to burst. He's still at about 125 pounds though.  I've filled a jar with protein candy bars (our daughter and friend bought for Mike) and put it by his tableside, in hopes that it will be easy for him to just reach over and eat one.  He's turning his nose up to anything "healthy" for him lately, so I may need to put a few chocolate bars, Reese cups, and Snicker bars, in there to tempt him more.  We've got 50 pounds to put on him!!!  (And I need to stop trying to put it on for him! ;)

Amber helped us out today by shopping for some clothes for Mike.  It's a little difficult for Mike to wear his normal clothing...#1 because of all the drainage tubes.....#2 because the inseams rub against any boney areas and cause blisters or sores.  We had a couple of jogging suits, but I was constantly struggling keeping those clean every other day.  So Amber found three more jogging sets for us, that will be such a help, and she found them all on sale!  Yahoo! :)  They have drawstrings to help keep the clothes up, but give us the loose fitting that we need to be more discreet.

So all in all, it has been a blessed day!  God is meeting every need we have, and we're so grateful for such dear family and friends supporting us.

Mike and I are not resting well.  This cough and congestion he's had for about two weeks now, keeps us both awake quite a bit.  We've called the oncology office to see if there is anything additional we could do to improve this, but have only been recommended to try a different allergy medication.  Maybe when we go in to see them next week they will hear for themselves, what this cough sounds like, and possibly suggest something better to help.

Briefly this morning, Mike got a little down with his appearance.  With the four areas we're needing to keep dressing over now, it's understandable.  My heart aches as I see him trying to cope.  He's so optimistic most of the time, that when he has moments of struggle, I know the pain is really intense.  My heart feels like a dish rag been wrung out.  There aren't any words for moments like these.  I just hold him tight and tell him we'll get through this one day at a time.

We enjoyed dinner out this evening at Western Sizzling with Mike's sister and brother-in-law.  Mike put away a 9 oz steak and bake potato!  Now that's what I like seeing!!!

Thank you for praying for us. 

Mike's Paracentesis procedure went through as planned this afternoon, and now he's added a third drainage tube to his collection.  He is feeling so much better!  Isn't God wonderful?!  Mike is such a fighter and God is so good! Please pray with us that the tube will stay safely in place so Mike can continue to feel relief from this fluid build up, and that he will also stay infection free.

Mike's bedsores are on the mend.  They don't appear as painful as they have been and the air flotation cushion has been a miracle relief for him.  We are still trying to take small walks in our driveway outside to try and build up Mike's strength and to make him more mobile.

Biliary tubes are under control, no presence of infection there.  No jaundice.  PRAISE!!!!
No signs of ammonia build up.  PRAISE!!!!
Bedsores healing.  PRAISE!!!

Mike does have a nasty cough, that sounds worse than he says it feels, but as I have said before, the Home Health nurses keep reassuring us his lungs are clear. I'd really appreciate your prayers joining ours, that this is nothing serious, and that his weakened immune system is just fighting harder to get over something simple.

We're working on a better appetite.  Gaining weight and strength.  And getting Mike to where he can play with his grandbabies...which is his hearts greatest desire.  Those two little boys mean everything to Mike.

I'm still fighting a flare up with my health, but I'm so grateful this is the first (lengthy) setback I've had in two years.   I'm mobile, but I am in more pain than usual, and have some side effects that are troublesome.  I would appreciate your prayers covering me, so I can continue to care for Mike. 

Mike and I want all of you to know how deeply we appreciate your prayers and your thoughtfulness.  The kindnesses you are showing...we are just extremely blessed!  This has been the most painful thing we've ever had to go through...but it has also been the most amazing example of brotherly, unconditional love imaginable.  You are not just a sea of names, in Mike's and my mind, when we reflect on God's goodness through all of you.  Each one of you have left an imprint on our hearts by your gifts of love to us.

It has been a rough day or two.  I have been feeling pretty bad, and little that I'm doing to try and will myself to feeling better, is working.  My Undifferientated Connective Tissue Disease (UCTD) and Fibromyalgia is  flaring.  Most times my medications keep it under control and bearable, but I'm pretty miserable right now...and it's especially difficult dealing with it, in Mike's present condition.  I would appreciate your prayers for me to get over this quickly.

We have discovered a problem with Mike having the Paracentesis Monday, possibly.  He is suppose to be off Coumadin for 5 days before a procedure, and there may not be enough time by Monday, to proceed, being he took his last dose Friday evening.  We will be trying to get an INR reading early Monday morning to see if we can proceed.

Mike is very swollen and uncomfortable.  The fluid in his abdomen has built up quite a bit.  He didn't rest very well last night.  (Neither did I.)  This cough and congestion he has been experiencing the past couple of weeks is really troubling and especially problemsome while he's trying to sleep.  The congestion doesn't seem to be coming from his lungs, according to the Home Health nurses, so we're guessing it is upper respiratory.

Thank you for praying and taking these needs before God, and for loving and supporting us.  We will keep you updated.

The day began a little crummy for Mike with him getting sick to his stomach.  Then after that was over with, he had a pretty good day.  He spent some more time visiting with his sister and brother-in-law.  I know Mike is enjoying their company very much, especially while I'm away at work.

The Home Health nurse came by to check Mike and she indicated his lungs were clear.  It is so hard for me to understand that, with the way he sounds at night coughing.  But, I'll take any good news we can get.

Mike bedsores are slowly improving.  Both nurses thought they were on the mend, and Mike seems like he has been in less discomfort from them.  This floatation pillow idea has been a life saver with these bedsores.  Mike carries it from room to room.

Monday, Mike's paracentesis is scheduled.  I'm hoping it will bring him the relief he's wanting and needing.  It's amazing how much fluid they can draw off from it.  It's unfortunate that its necessary to repeat again, but with a wonderful radiologist doing the job, Mike hardly thinks twice about getting it done.  We doubt the tube will be left in this time, since we had trouble with it pulling partially out last time, and causing some uncomfortable swelling.

I feel a pinch under the weather this afternoon/evening.  Hopefully a good nights rest will do the trick.  I would appreciate your prayers that this might only be my disease flaring, and that Mike will remain protected from catching any viruses.

It has been a full day!  I feel like I accomplished a lot. 

I tried to think ahead a little to come up with better ways to care for Mike while I'm away at work.  Yesterday, he didn't eat breakfast or lunch, and barely ate dinner due to me not waking him up before I left for work, and because of his stomach being descended from the fluid build up.  On top of that, he didn't take his medications on time.  I decided today I needed to try something different, so I put Friday mornings pills in a container next to his bed.  I poured one of the liquid form into a special measure medicine spoon.   And I set out some food for breakfast next to the bed.  It worked!  He took his medications on time and ate a little of the breakfast.  I'm happy that we made some kind of progress!  For lunch he enjoyed Cindy's wonderful homemade chicken soup and dinner was also prepared by another angel, Suzanne.  People are coming alongside me, taking me by my elbows, and lifting burdens left and right.

It just amazes me the people God has put into Mike's and my life, because of our situation.  I could have never drawn a more beautiful picture of Christ's love and service, than what is taking place in Mike's and my life right now.  Mike and I, and the kids....often remark, "It's a God thing!" with each and every blessing.  Only He could lay on peoples hearts the burden to come to our side.  We're so caught up in all the confusion of the medical, insurance, emotional, part of all of this, we wouldn't even know what to ask help for.  There are such tender hearts out there, beaming brightly, and letting God's love flow through them.

My employer lost his wife of 30+ years to cancer.  His present wife, a beautiful compliment to Bob, lost both of her parents recently, and her heart is so tender.  She cries along with me as I try and sort out all that I'm feeling. And they both have done everything in their power to remind me my job is safe and that it's okay to be at Mike's side when I need, or want to.  Kay just covers my job while I'm away. 

The associate pastor and his wife have such servants hearts as well.  They are preparing to become missionaries overseas, yet they take time to open their hearts and constantly encourage us.

Our doctor friend who visits Mike weekly, knows what it feels like to have a medical condition sideline him from his career.  He understands that struggle and all that goes with it.  He and Mike are able to share those feelings, watch a movie together, take a drive, and enjoy chatting about a hobby they have in common.

I can't explain how important hugs are to me, and there are several friends who aren't afraid to hug me tight, and remind me I can still stand.  I can still walk forward. And the nervous energy I often feel overwhelm me, can settle down and leave.  My greatest fear through all of this is being alone, even if surrounded by many people.  I know the steepest mountain I MAY have to climb is ahead of me, and to be honest, I am so overwhelmed by that fear, that it can suck the breath right out of my lungs.  It's hard now, and it's going to be very hard later, but there are people I know who will remind me of God's love and care, and I'll be able to lean on these dear family and friends to help get me through this.

Who could have orchestrated this more beautifully?  Although I don't understand all the "Whys" of our situation, God has left a huge reminder for me, that He is very near, by bringing these people into our lives, and having them bless us, as they have.  It's more than friendship.  It's family.  An extension of God's arms and hands.  Mike, our family and I, are so deeply blessed and feel incredibly grateful for the compassion and mercy of others.

Tomorrow, Mike hopes to have a date for the Paracentesis.  Please cover him with prayer that this would go smoothly and safely.

Tonight, Mike walked to the top of our driveway twice while holding on to me.  We both wanted to do a happy dance! :)  Little Victories are Big Celebrations to us!

Not very much new to report on Mike today.  We had a rough nights sleep, last night, due to a coughing fit Mike got into.  That resulted in lights staying on in our bedroom all night long.  But his cough hasn't been too bad today.  I have a feeling this problem may be one that stays with us, never completely being resolved.

Mike was able to get out for a little drive today with Dr. H, and sat out on the deck with his brother-in-law and sister this evening.  I'm thankful he had a change in scenery and hours of conversation.  I know this does him a world of good and means a lot to him.

He didn't eat very much today.  It's likely because of fluid building back up in his belly.  He still hasn't scheduled a paracentesis yet, but I'm guessing he's going to need to do something to improve things, unless they improve on their own soon.

Thank you for your prayers for protection and strength over Mike and our family.  Life is certainly very precious and fragile in our household.

The cough revisited Mike and I at 4:30 this morning.  I got up to give Mike his medication for this, when he accidently dropped the clear gel capsule on the bedroom floor.  I could hear it rolling, but without my glasses on, I had no clue what direction it went.  And because our two Cocker Spaniels, are like two high tech Eureka vacuums, I knew putting off finding the pill to the morning, wouldn't do.  So there I was, at 4:30 a.m., on hands and knees with my flashlight on search for the invisible pill.  Let me tell you, it wasn't a pretty site and it made falling back to sleep, almost impossible!


Thankfully, Mike's cough settled down and he has felt pretty good today.  His home health nurse said Mike's sores are improving and suggested a different type of dressing to help dry them out.  Mike's blood pressure was a little bit better, but the oxygen in his blood was low, and she suggested Mike use his concentrator,especially at night.  I'm not sure if Mike will take her advice.


This evening I was able to walk Mike outside a little.  I thought maybe some fresh air, might interest him into getting up more often.  We didn't get far before he tired out, but later on this evening he wanted to ride up with me to Walgreen's to pick up some milk, in the Miata with the top down, and when I came out of the store, he was behind the drivers wheel.  He drove home, which was the first in several weeks.  He said it was really refreshing.  For me, it was an ahhahh moment.  Something normal for a change.

Mike called the oncologist's office to possibly schedule a paracentesis next Monday or Tuesday.  The fluid has built back up a little bit in his abdomen, and I think he is considering having it removed.  I'm praying God will remove the fluid with the medications Mike's prescribed to take.

God bless all of you for praying consistently for us.  Your thoughts and prayers are such a comfort to us.

Mike enjoyed a visit from Drew this evening....and his mommy and daddy. ;)  It's so sweet to see the two of them interact, especially the gentleness Drew exercises when he's around Mike.  Drew was telling Mike about his costume for "pumpkin day".  He's going as a doctor.  Isn't that precious?!


Mike has felt fairly well today; maybe a little more tired.  He laid down for a good while this afternoon.  His abdomen is a little swollen this evening, making him feel a little uncomfortable.  But his cough is under better control and the spitting up has stopped.  I'm so grateful he's been able to keep all of his meals down these past few days.  He doesn't eat a whole lot, but does eat a good bite of everything.


Thank you for keeping him in your prayers.  Please continue to pray God's hedge of protection around Mike.  He is so frail, he would have a hard time fighting off very much.

Praise God! Mike is feeling so much better today.  I need to confess, he has had his daughter and I, very worried the past couple of days.  There have been days when I've doubted there was any strength left in him.  He hasn't been able to do very much except sleep.  He wasn't very coherent.  His food was coming up more than it was staying down. We were dwindling down to only a few things he could do for himself.  It has had me questioning if I should continue leaving him home alone. But a day like today brings so much hope.  It washes over me and lifts my heart.  I'm so grateful for God allowing me some time to sigh deeply and rest from worrying.  I know I shouldn't worry, but how can I help not to?!

I praise God for this special bedsore pillow Tommie and Ken loaned Mike.  It has been such a blessing.  And I praise God for Dr. B's patches he rounded up for us.  And I praise God for Dr. H's visits to Mike, keeping his company and allowing Mike to feel like a human being, by talking about "guy" stuff.  And I praise God for my job, and the loving people of FBCR, who have been so loving, unconditional, and comforting.  And my family and friends who never stop giving....their time, their hugs, their prayers, their service, and their comfort.  Knowing we're not alone, has been key in surviving and persevering.

We would be lost without our children. (all four of them)  They have needed to fill some big shoes the past two years.  Their love and support has reassured us of their maturity and loving hearts.  They haven't ran away from the problems, but have ran towards us to help in any way they could. 

When I have pause from the stress and worry....all I want to do is praise God for all the blessings He sends our way.  The bad can be so extremely painful and bad some times.  It's hard some days just to raise our heads off our pillow.  But God's goodness, is good all the time, and washes over us in the midst of the storm. 

Thank you for continuing to read our blog and lifting our names before God. Note: "Reflection" below.

Mike didn't sleep very well last night.  When I woke up at 6 a.m., I found him in the office asleep in the recliner with the TV blaring.  He had slept there all evening. His bedsores have made him so miserable, he can't get comfortable enough to sleep.

So, before I left for work, I brought some breakfast up to Mike, and helped lay out his clothes for when he got dressed, and his medications.  He has been having trouble dressing himself, but I would have been late if I had stayed any longer to help him, so he told me to run along.  After he ate his breakfast and got dressed, he got into a coughing fit, and accidently vomited all over his clothes.  At lunch, I came home to hearing that, so he had changed, and I made him some lunch.  When I got home after work, I learned he had choked once again, and had to change his clothing.  I don't know if any of that food nourished him or not.  This evening, I got him to eat some dinner...and so far....he's kept it down.  He fell asleep on the couch around 8 p.m., and has been sleeping since.  I think, while he's comfortable, I'll just let him sleep there as long as he can.

During Bible study at the church where I work, they prayed for Mike.  Kay, the pastor's wife and leader, described how uncomfortable Mike has been from these bedsores.  One of the ladies in the group came back by the church in the afternoon and offered Mike and I a special pillow used for bedsores, they had been given for a family member, from the VA hospital.  It looks like an egg crate square pillow, that you can pump as much, or as little, air into.  Mike has been using it this evening and said he truly helps.  So maybe he will find some relief.

Mike is looking VERY thin.  I'm really concerned about him having enough strength to fight anything...let alone cancer.  He isn't drinking or eating enough to benefit him.  It's killing me inside, standing by, watching all of this, and being helpless to do anything.  I can't force him to eat.  I can't force him to drink fluids.  When I try to become a cheerleader, it only seems to frustrate Mike.

I know you will be in prayer for us over all of this.  Thank you for a warrior's heart!

It was another decent day for Mike.  The biggest source of pain for Mike right now, is his bedsores. He has 2-3 areas around his tailbone, that are extremely uncomfortable for him. The patches we have been trying, help, but haven't healed them, and Mike's attempts at eating better, haven't helped either.   This is an area where we could really use special prayer, since this prevents him to do physical therapy, sit comfortably at church, or even just to visit with friends and family.  He needs to get up often and shift his body around for it to even be bearable.

Other than this, the swelling he has had in his legs, stomach, or arm has decreased.  He is breathing much easier, even though he still has an annoying cough that some times keeps him awake.  But biliary tubes seem to be working fine and he's pretty much holding his own...except for these troublesome bedsores.

Thank you so much for caring about our family, checking in on us, and offering your prayers and help.  You have been such a support to us.

Today was a little better than yesterday.  Mike seemed more coherent,at least while I was around.  He slept quite a bit, according to him, when I was at work.  But he enjoyed a two hour visit with Dr. H today.  Everyday, Mike thanks God for Dr. H's friendship, and for God sending him to us when we needed him most.

Mike ended up coughing and throwing up his breakfast, but he quickly told me he drank a Boost shake to make up for whatever he lost.  This cough continues to linger, but it appears to only be upper chest congestion.  It can get real annoying at night when Mike's trying to lay down at night to sleep.  Then it keeps both of us awake.

I bought Mike a memory foam pillow yesterday to see if it would help with his bedsores.  I was hoping it would allieviate some of the pressure he is experiencing on those open wounds.  I'm not sure it is doing the trick of taking all the pain away, but I think it is helping.  The Home Health nurse told us yesterday that she has seen some patients with these sores so deep she could see bone.  That quickly creeped Mike and I out.  We hope we never experience this pain to that degree.  I guess that goes to show; things can always be worse.

I'm real tired this evening so I'm going to keep this short.  Thank you for continuing to remember us in your thoughts and prayers.

Mike is feeling better.  Thank you for remembering us in your prayers.  The cough is less frightening to listen to.  I believe between the Levaquin, the prescription cough gel tablet, and the Robitussin DM, things are improving. 

The Home Health nurse came out and said Mike's lungs sounded clear.  I told her my concern and she told me it doesn't sound like there is any fluid or pnuemonia sounds.  I'm also relieved because Mike is coughing up the phlegm, without throwing up and losing any foods or medications.  They did say Mike's blood pressure was very low.  They even tried taking it in a his ankle which gave out a low number.  She suggested Mike drink some coffee to help raise his blood pressure.

Following the visit, Mike and I went to Cracker Barrel to use a gift card we were given from my mom.  Mike made a good attempt at a roast beef plate.  Then later he came home and snacked.  He also drank a Boost shake which gave him 15 mg of protein, and Amber had ordered some special juice that helps give a high level of protein in one ounce.  So we're working on trying to rebuild Mike's appetite and get rid of these sores.  Please continue to pray that we make progress in this area.

We appreciate everyone's kindness and concern.

After a bad start to Labor Day, Labor Day Evening turned into a wonderful time of family being together.  Something about being all together makes everything okay.  You soak up unconditional love and acceptance, you laugh a lot, and you hug each other tight.  That is so much to be thankful for!

Mike has developed a very congested sound in his lungs.  He has been on Levaquin, an antibiotic, since Thursday, but last night he developed such a rattle when he coughed.  He hasn't been able to get very much phlegm up so we called the oncologist on call this afternoon, and he gave us permission to use Robitussin DM along with the other two medications prescribed for these symptoms.  I'm hoping this will begin working, and help.  Otherwise, I'm concerned pnuemonia might settle in.  He's not running a temperature at this point, so I'm hopeful we might be taking the extra percautions before this getting out of control.  At least his dizziness has stopped.

Mike slept until noon today.   He didn't have a very good nights rest last night.  He has been lethargic, even though he has eaten fairly well, and has been visiting with family later this afternoon.  Tonight, I found some high protein, chocolate, Boost shakes, we're going to give a try, to get Mike's protein level up.  That was what we were told needed to happen, to help repair the break down of skin on his backside.  He hasn't been very fond of the protein bars we stocked him up on, but I'm hoping we can find ways around all that.  I'm trying to get peanuts, peanut butter, meat, cheese, and other items into him.  He'll eat, but just small portions.

Tomorrow, Mike has a big day planned.  First, we are getting to have a small visit with a former coworker of Mike's, in the morning.  They lived in Houston and got us out and about when we were down there for 6 weeks at MD Anderson's.  They have since moved to Dallas and had a little boy in July.  So this will be our first visit with Samuel and we're anxious to meet him.  Then later on, if Mike is feeling well, we're planning on going to a little get together out at our sons home, with all the family.  It is Matt's only day off with the outage going on.  Thankfully, it landed on a holiday so Jill and Zac could be off too.  It should be fun watching Drew and Ethan interact with Mike's sister Lynne, and her husband, Charlie.  Ethan has become quite the talker and Drew has so many cute mannerisms too.  It's such great therapy for Mike to be around them...although I pray for protection over Mike and I, as Drew and Amber, have both been ill the past couple of days.

Please continue to keep Mike in your prayers as we try and clear up this congestion he's having.  We appreciate your love and concern so much.

Mike bound out of bed this morning, feeling very well. He ate a good breakfast and then enjoyed watching tennis, while I ran to Kroger's for food and medications. Around 2:30 he went outside and sat with his sister and brother-n-law on the porch, which gave me some time to clean house.

Not a whole lot has changed in the past couple of days. Mike is experiencing some low blood pressure readings and some dizziness when he walks, but he's suspecting it is his allergies. I hope whatever it is, it clears up soon. He was talking today about wanting to go to the pistol range to shoot some...if he feels up to it.

We're having a little trouble with his bedsore patches not sliding around. I'm not sure I'm applying them correctly so I will need to have the home health nurse check them out when she returns Monday or Tuesday.

Thank you for continuing to check in on us. We appreciate your prayers deeply.

Mike made it to physical therapy this morning and did fairly well, I'm told. He was tired afterwards, but that doesn't surprise me. He went for the physical activity. I wanted him to go for the friendship. For the familiar, in life, he has been missing. And I thank God for giving him strength...even if for only today.

The gel pads that were found to help Mike with his bed sores have really given him back many hours of being comfortable. He only took one pain pill today, where as, before, he was popping them every 4 hours to find any relief. I'm grateful that he isn't in pain today.

Mike visited with Dr. H today and that brought him tremendous joy and comfort. They share a passion for building things, and discussing various topics. I'm so grateful Mike can forget his pain and enjoy life, friendship, and deeper still...brotherhood.

Mike ate cereal for breakfast and a protein bar for lunch :( That came up again with the continuing cough. But he ate cheese ravioli tonight and snacked on half of piece of apple pie and vanilla ice cream. :) I praise God for Mike's effort.

Mike's sister and brother-n-law arrived this evening. After three years, they are finally here! I'm so grateful Lynne and Charlie now, can get "in person" updates. And I'm so thankful to have another set of hands.

I'm grateful for all the friends who love us and who spend their time thinking about us, listening to us, helping us, advising us, counseling us; who hold us tight, and together, when we feel like we're going to crumble into pieces. Mike and I have four children and 2 grandsons we simply adore, and who have emptied themselves out to help us. We're all struggling dealing with all of this in our own unique way, but God has given us each other to lean on, and we're so blessed.

I know I needn't ask for prayer, because you all are so giving and have already been on your knees for us. But, please pray for God's protection over Mike and our family, so we can all be healthy and be able to spend time together. Time is so important. We wouldn't want to lose a drop of it.

My heart is encouraged and lifted up this evening. Mike has decided to try and return to physical therapy tomorrow. He may not be able to do much more than find the energy to get in the car, and out at the office, but any step forward is positive.

Mike and I had a little talk when I got home from work today. I tried to explain he may never "feel" like eating, but he HAS to, in order to have any chance of staying in this fight..even if he throws it up because of getting choked. He can't give in to it. We talked about his dad's fight with cancer in 2001, and how quickly his dad's health plummeted when he decided to stop trying to eat when he didn't feel like it. I tried to explain to Mike it is only in desperation that I'm pleading with him to give it everything he's got....NOW!

Mike is extremely frail right now. He listened, and I'm grateful. Our former doctor must have had his ears burning, because Mike was just telling me he was going to ask Dr. H to take him to therapy tomorrow, when Dr. H called. Dr. H has been spending time with Mike the past few weeks, visiting with him at the house, and being such a comforter and friend. That has meant so much to Mike, and it has given me such a peace. I have so much respect for Dr. H, and I feel we're so blessed to have him in our life at this time, when we need him so much.

Anyway...send up a prayer tomorrow around 10 a.m., that Mike may feel well enough to tackle this challenge, and be encouraged to continue. If all we get are baby steps, I will be celebrating.

Mike has developed some chest congestion and is now on Levaquin. He has had a cough for a couple of weeks now, but we noticed the phlegm was not clear the past couple of days. Mike and I were up almost all evening last night with him coughing and choking. It is also the biggest reason why he's been throwing up. He gets choked and up comes everything. We need for him to get better in this area quickly, so please keep that in your prayers.

I have to praise God and thank all of you for praying! I have been noticing a few small things that gives me hope things may be doing a little better for Mike. I mentioned last night how the swelling is reducing in Mike's abdomen and how we haven't heard the crackling lately (although that sort of surprises me, seeing this phlegm). I've also noticed the biliary drain on the right side isn't leaking...which is not routine. I'll take any tiny blessing and ray of hope God offers. If it's less bandages...Yippee!!!

I'm confident God can heal Mike if it is within His will. I know He can improve things, and until HE tells me differently, I will cling to every ounce of hope I have to fight this with Mike. I have a lot of respect for doctors, and we have had many give us the death stare and even sock us in the gut with their words....but they are not the Ultimate Physician...and they don't have the last word. If God should take Mike home; of course I'll be devastated, and will be lost without him. But I will know deep in my heart, that an army of many, fought this battle with us, and we gave it everything we had.

Thank you for soldiering with us!

Home Health came out today to assess our situation and have us complete some paperwork. The nurse was a female match for Mike's wild sense of humor. She offered us some advice and told us a nurse will be coming out to visit about three times a week.

Our family doctor and his nurses were angels in tracking down free samples of a special patch Mike can try, to help with these bedsores he's developed. This has become the greatest need Mike has. He has been absolutely miserable with them, and can not get comfortable or find relief. There is a gel-like thickness to these patches, so perhaps Mike will feel a little more comfortable and possibly begin to heal. The bed sores are a breaking down of tissue caused by a lack of protein in Mike's diet, in addition to the pressure his bones are causing against fragile skin. I'm praying we can avoid any kind of bacterial/viral infections with the help of these patches covering the wounds, and I'm praying we can turn things around.

We didn't have a very good start today. I couldn't get Mike to eat any breakfast before I left for work. At lunch, he drank an Ensure shake along with some applesauce. But when I tried to encourage him to eat a protein bar while I was making him some dinner this evening, he began coughing and didn't keep anything down. I'm grateful he at least went on ahead and ate some dinner later. So far that has remained down.

The swelling Mike had been experiencing has reduced to almost nothing. For the first time, in several months, his stomach actually looks close to normal. Even though our oncologist didn't want to repeat the paracentesis, once it pulled out, Mike and I are confident it has improved his being more comfortable. Even his lungs feel better and we can't hear any crackling. (Ashley-you are such a blessing to us!) Mike's left arm continues to be swollen, but we're back on the Coumadin, and perhaps we can get that to come back down soon.

Emotionally....we're hangin' in there day by day. I'm trying hard not to get discouraged, but at times, our situation completely overwhelms me. Any time I'm away from Mike, is hard. I'm blessed with the kind of family and friends who know our needs, without my knowing our needs, or needing to ask. God's hand is simply moving us through each day with the help of so many of you. There is a supernatural power moving, it would be absolutely beautiful, if the situation weren't so painful. And even still....it is...and all glory goes to God! I could never thank you enough for being there when I didn't know I needed you. I'm only confident God will bless you for being His servant to me and our family.

Special prayer requests: 1. Mike has developed a cough that doesn't appear to be anything serious (the nurse said his chest sounded fine), but this creates gagging problems for him, which leads to vomiting. 2. Mike needs to eat...somehow...someway. 3. Please pray protection over Mike. He is so thin and fragile right now. The Home Health nurse told us, he cannot be exposed to any viruses what so ever, the shape he's in.

Oh....and one more piece of news, I almost left out............. Remember our dilemma of not finding any of Mike's old medical records? Well, a couple of weeks ago, I was preparing for a garage sale and had found an old Rolodex of Mike's in there from his work in the Dallas area. I flipped through it and recognized a doctor's name and called it. Sure enough, it was Mike's hematologist. I questioned the nurse on the other end about any records dating back about 20 years ago. It was a long shot for sure...and she struggled finding anything, but we got a call today. They have located some records on Mike and are sending them to us. PRAISE GOD! These may not help Mike, but it certainly is important for our children/grandchildren to have this information.

Thank you for your love and support.

It's a little hard posting this evening.

Simply, Mike and I received difficult news at the oncologists office this afternoon. We are stopping treatment for the time being. The chemotherapy seems to be doing Mike more harm than good, and the doctor didn't feel it was safe anymore to continue.

Mike is enduring some pretty severe pain right now. His body isn't healing wounds like it should because of the lack of nourishment he's taking in. He needs protein, and he's not getting enough. He's having difficulty eating. A feeding tube isn't a solution for us at this time, per what the doctor told us today, because of the fluid issue we continually have. The doctor isn't in any hurry to reinsert the abdominal tube to drain fluid, after the trouble we ran into last night with it coming dislodged from its intended location, and seeping into other tissue.

Removing the few options we had, is a sock in the gut for Mike, and it is hitting him hard tonight. I'm at a new low myself, but I'm trying to keep strong and positive for Mike's sake.

We need every prayer we can to help Mike rebuild his strength, his appetite, and his ability to mend. We need God's protection from the tumor enlarging these next four weeks, to keep Mike strong and virus free, and to keep in the right frame of mind. We will not see our oncologist for a month. They are sending Home Health out to us tomorrow, for wound care.

I have a heavy heart tonight, so I'll just leave things as that. Thank you for caring so deeply.

We ended up in the hospital emergency room again last night with some minor complications. A CT scan was done to determine the trouble. It resulted in the tube in Mike's abdomen be removed. The underlying problem is still a mystery. We would appreciate your prayers as the doctors try to figure out what happened and how to proceed.

We didn't get a whole lot of sleep last night. Mike vomited this morning but is sleeping now. I'm going to lay down and try to rest as well. We have a 4 p.m. appointment with the oncologist this afternoon to discuss things.