After a long wait, we finally were able to see Mike's doctor and get the lab and CT scan report. Long story, short-everything is doing well. The tumor has remained the same size as it was in April, and there have been no other suspicious areas developing. The scan did show that Mike had some pleural effusion pockets in both lungs but this wasn't any surprise. His lungs sounded clear today. The CT also showed quite a bit of ascites in Mike's abdomen, but again, not any surprise. To help with the leakage problem we've had recently, we are going to start drawing off 2 liters of fluid each evening, instead of 1. This should relieve the pressure and allieviate the leakage.
Mike's lab results were mostly good. His ammonia level is a little elevated, as was his alkaline phosphates, but his other liver enzyme levels were good.
While discussing "tubes", we were asking if it was necessary for Mike to have his bililary drains replaced if there isn't any problem? There has been no leakage, no redness, nothing! We were told that Mike's bilirubin count was at .5 which was very good, so his body was eliminating the bile somehow. So the topic came up about possibly doing a study and having the tubes taken out. I could read Mike's face, and know more than anything, he would love to feel normal again...but...we've decided to just leave things as they are and to continue to let Mike's body heal following the last round of treatments he had. If we were to have any outpatient procedures done, it would require Mike to fast again....and we certainly can't afford him losing anymore weight. Perhaps when his body has strengthened and healed, it might be an option down the road.
There was indication on the scan that there could be a slight bacterial infection someway involving the stents in Mike's biliary ducts, but it was suggested that if Mike is doing well right now...just to leave good enough alone. There was also some thickening in the ureter duct, suggesting that a stent might be helpful inserted there, but again, the doctor felt we should leave things alone...if they aren't an issue...which they don't seem to be.
Mike weighed 130 pounds according to their scale, so that has been an increase. The bedsores are gone so his body is repairing itself and shows recovery.
All in all, it was a positive visit. Thank you very much for all of your prayers and support. This week we have had good news regarding both of our health, and we're so grateful for having such an army of family and friends praying for us.
We would appreciate your continued prayers for Mike's cancer to either completely disappear, or stay stable. We would ask that you pray that Mike's body would continue to repair itself and the ascites situation would become less and less of an issue. We would like to have his biliary tubes removed someday, if possible, so we pray that his body would continue to do this job on its own. We certainly need Mike stronger. We need his muscles to rebuild. We need his swallowing to improve. Being that our insurance company refuses to help us in this area, we need for God to open a door for us, so that we can get Mike the care and help he needs.
Thank you for praying BIG. For asking God with us, for the impossible. I'm reminded at this moment of a song I use to sing with my children when they were little....."My God is so BIG, so STRONG, and so MIGHTY, there's nothing my GOD cannot do!"
10.28.2009
10.27.2009
Road Block
Mike and I went to speech therapy this morning. I had just about enough time to fill out the five pages of paperwork, when we learned our insurance...yes, that expensive Blue Cross/Blue Shield CHIP plan I'm back at work trying to pay for....won't pay for the services Mike needs. The only way they informed everyone they would pay anything towards this, would be if Mike was an inpatient. I hardly think it's necessary for Mike to be admitted to the hospital, but just how crucial do they feel swallowing is to someone who has dropped 50 pounds of weight, is down to 124 pounds, and can't swallow food well?! The stupidity of it all is so sickening some times!
Christy, who happens to be the speech therapist, was so kind. Despite the ruling, she invited Mike and I back to her office briefly to explain Mike's situation to us, and to give us some helpful exercises he can do in the meantime. Ideally, she would like to see Mike 3-4 times a week for six weeks, to make any substantial progress. She said, we could get by on half of the time if need be. Mike and I asked how much a visit would cost, but we weren't given that information today. All we were given was a name of someone at the hospital who might be willing to give us financial counseling to set up some kind of payment plan to pay for this. (this clinic is partnered with the hospital) We tried to find this person at the hospital, immediately after the appointment, but she was out of her office today. So...................we'll wait and see how God will answer this problem.
Nervous energy is already mounting for tomorrows appointment with the oncologist. I pray God will calm the raging storm within our hearts and carry us through that day, through those moments.
Christy, who happens to be the speech therapist, was so kind. Despite the ruling, she invited Mike and I back to her office briefly to explain Mike's situation to us, and to give us some helpful exercises he can do in the meantime. Ideally, she would like to see Mike 3-4 times a week for six weeks, to make any substantial progress. She said, we could get by on half of the time if need be. Mike and I asked how much a visit would cost, but we weren't given that information today. All we were given was a name of someone at the hospital who might be willing to give us financial counseling to set up some kind of payment plan to pay for this. (this clinic is partnered with the hospital) We tried to find this person at the hospital, immediately after the appointment, but she was out of her office today. So...................we'll wait and see how God will answer this problem.
Nervous energy is already mounting for tomorrows appointment with the oncologist. I pray God will calm the raging storm within our hearts and carry us through that day, through those moments.
10.26.2009
All Is Clear
First, I'd like to briefly update everyone regarding me. What was being further looked into, at my doctor appointment, ended up being benign. So we can lay all of that to rest. :)
I had another wonderful friend who offered to take me back to LR, and turned a frustrating situation for me, into a few hours of escape and fun. Kay, you are such a sweetheart, and I'll never forget the memory we made today! For those who know me well.........I don't eat anything that swims in water. At least, not before today. My chicken flauta's were tasting a little "fishy," and after being puzzled and eating most of it, I finally found the tail hanging out of one end of it, to prove my suspicions. I was eating shrimp flauta's! Kay and I had a good laugh out of that! As we say in our family "we made a memory!" Thank you so much, Kay, for driving in the bad weather, and having to wait so long in the waiting room for me.
Mike stayed tucked away and warm today at home. Our son, Matt, and grandson, Drew, spent a little time with him which brightened up Mike's day. Mike got a big ol' bear hug from his little buddy.
So tomorrow morning we have physical therapy and we might need to have a couple of minor issues looked at regarding Mike. I've noticed that Mike's eyes seem to be very bloodshot and have a little discharge accumulating in both eyes. It could be conjunctivitis...but I'm not a doctor. I just really hate taking Mike anywhere near a medical facility or crowd, to find out, but it's not improving any and we may have no choice. The abdominal tube is hanging in there, so we may try and aim for Wednesday, when we see the oncologist to try and set that up. I keep forgetting that Mike needs to be off the Coumadin for anything to be done. Mike also is thinking one of his lungs may be filling up with fluid...so he might need a chest xray. The poor guy is falling apart on me.
So, I would appreciate your continued prayers....most especially for Mike's protection and comfort. I feel like the dam is leaking, and I'm sticking my fingers into so many holes, only to end up having holes bursting forth everywhere, and not enough fingers!
Father, thank you for your peace and protection today. Thank you for wonderful friends and laughter. Thank you for moments to let my mind and heart rest. Thank you for allowing me to have friends whom I can share my heart to and some times let the tears flow. Thank you for the comfort of prayers, the smiles of encouragement, and the love so many have shown us. In the midst of the fire, you haven't forgotten us. You have given so many dear family and friends to stand alongside us. We are incredibly blessed!
I had another wonderful friend who offered to take me back to LR, and turned a frustrating situation for me, into a few hours of escape and fun. Kay, you are such a sweetheart, and I'll never forget the memory we made today! For those who know me well.........I don't eat anything that swims in water. At least, not before today. My chicken flauta's were tasting a little "fishy," and after being puzzled and eating most of it, I finally found the tail hanging out of one end of it, to prove my suspicions. I was eating shrimp flauta's! Kay and I had a good laugh out of that! As we say in our family "we made a memory!" Thank you so much, Kay, for driving in the bad weather, and having to wait so long in the waiting room for me.
Mike stayed tucked away and warm today at home. Our son, Matt, and grandson, Drew, spent a little time with him which brightened up Mike's day. Mike got a big ol' bear hug from his little buddy.
So tomorrow morning we have physical therapy and we might need to have a couple of minor issues looked at regarding Mike. I've noticed that Mike's eyes seem to be very bloodshot and have a little discharge accumulating in both eyes. It could be conjunctivitis...but I'm not a doctor. I just really hate taking Mike anywhere near a medical facility or crowd, to find out, but it's not improving any and we may have no choice. The abdominal tube is hanging in there, so we may try and aim for Wednesday, when we see the oncologist to try and set that up. I keep forgetting that Mike needs to be off the Coumadin for anything to be done. Mike also is thinking one of his lungs may be filling up with fluid...so he might need a chest xray. The poor guy is falling apart on me.
So, I would appreciate your continued prayers....most especially for Mike's protection and comfort. I feel like the dam is leaking, and I'm sticking my fingers into so many holes, only to end up having holes bursting forth everywhere, and not enough fingers!
Father, thank you for your peace and protection today. Thank you for wonderful friends and laughter. Thank you for moments to let my mind and heart rest. Thank you for allowing me to have friends whom I can share my heart to and some times let the tears flow. Thank you for the comfort of prayers, the smiles of encouragement, and the love so many have shown us. In the midst of the fire, you haven't forgotten us. You have given so many dear family and friends to stand alongside us. We are incredibly blessed!
10.25.2009
Mike's abdominal drain is hanging on by a stitch. This explains the problem with the leakage. We think, by the way we can tape the dressing, we can hold off having anything done for this until Tuesday or Wednesday, allowing me to keep my appointment tomorrow in LR. Mike will remain home.
Tuesday morning is Mike's speech therapy and Wednesday afternoon is the appointment with the oncologist. Waiting for those CT results is a little frightening.
Thank you for praying for us.
Tuesday morning is Mike's speech therapy and Wednesday afternoon is the appointment with the oncologist. Waiting for those CT results is a little frightening.
Thank you for praying for us.
10.24.2009
UPDATE:
We're having a minor problem this evening with one of Mike's 3 external drains. It may have come out of place because his clothes were very damp when we accessed the drain this evening. We're hoping replacing, or repairing this, can hold off until Tuesday afternoon. I need to go back to LR myself on Monday for further testing, so it would be better if it could hold off until Tuesday following therapy. I would like to be there for the procedure. Please pray we will not have any further problems with this, or it will not worsen over the next couple of days. Thank you.
We learned yesterday that Mike will begin his speech therapy Tuesday morning. My hopes are high that he will regain some of his ability to swallow food more easily. His weight is at 124, down 2 1/2 pounds. I'm a little nervous taking him to any public place due to how weak and frail he is. I don't think he would be able to fight off any viruses, much less H1N1, or bacterial pnuemonia.
We still haven't learned the final call on Zac's flu, whether it was officially H1N1, or regular flu. Amber told me Zac's fever broke yesterday and he was eating a little better. She said the main thing Zac was now dealing with was a nasty cough. Amber has come down with symptoms that Ethan had, more of a head type cold. I think Ethan was doing a little better and eating better. They are having to miss a family wedding that is taking place this afternoon in LR.
On schedule this week...Tuesday is speech therapy and Wednesday is the day we receive the CT results. Your prayers would mean everything to us. We would appreciate your prayers for courage, strength, and protection.
We're having a minor problem this evening with one of Mike's 3 external drains. It may have come out of place because his clothes were very damp when we accessed the drain this evening. We're hoping replacing, or repairing this, can hold off until Tuesday afternoon. I need to go back to LR myself on Monday for further testing, so it would be better if it could hold off until Tuesday following therapy. I would like to be there for the procedure. Please pray we will not have any further problems with this, or it will not worsen over the next couple of days. Thank you.
We learned yesterday that Mike will begin his speech therapy Tuesday morning. My hopes are high that he will regain some of his ability to swallow food more easily. His weight is at 124, down 2 1/2 pounds. I'm a little nervous taking him to any public place due to how weak and frail he is. I don't think he would be able to fight off any viruses, much less H1N1, or bacterial pnuemonia.
We still haven't learned the final call on Zac's flu, whether it was officially H1N1, or regular flu. Amber told me Zac's fever broke yesterday and he was eating a little better. She said the main thing Zac was now dealing with was a nasty cough. Amber has come down with symptoms that Ethan had, more of a head type cold. I think Ethan was doing a little better and eating better. They are having to miss a family wedding that is taking place this afternoon in LR.
On schedule this week...Tuesday is speech therapy and Wednesday is the day we receive the CT results. Your prayers would mean everything to us. We would appreciate your prayers for courage, strength, and protection.
10.22.2009
What's new today?
Zac and Ethan went for the doctor appointments this morning. It appears like Zac has the Flu, possibly the H1N1 version. He is on bedrest and isolation, trying to protect Ethan and Amber, but according to the peditrician, it's likely the entire household will come down with something. Ethan appears to have a viral infection. Amber told me this evening that he was fussy, but he had more energy than yesterday. Amber, on the other hand, has much less energy today. ;) Keeping up with Ethan and a sick husband hasn't been a picnic. We're hoping both Amber and Ethan can avoid coming down with whatever Zac has. They did some blookwork on Zac and we should know more after that is evaluated.
Mike's day began SLOW. He was still in bed when I called him at 11:30. That's more boredom than anything else. He was blessed today to have a friend stop by and visit with him a little while.
I'm doing much better, but it's like problems line up infront of us daily and wear me out fast. Today we were called by our medical insurance company, threatening to end our insurance because they never received a fax I sent the end of July from the UPS store with some important residency information. I'm just thankful, someone bothered to call us to let us know what was going on. How can we fix anything without knowing?
I wonder if insurance companies understand the amount of pressure and energy it takes someone living with a chronic and serious illness. Mike and I have enough brain fog between the two of us, it's a miracle we can even function at times. You would think insurance companies would show a little compassion and grace. There is just so much on your mind...spending extra time to double and triple check things, is sheerly exhausting. We could use as much prayer as possible to stay protected.
Thank you for thinking about us enough to read our blog. I know a lot of the information may end up sounding like a broken record, but I'm confident, your faithful prayers are helping us fight this battle each moment of the day.
I came across a hymn today at work, written by Charles Wesly. The words just jumped off the page and spoke to my heart. I thought I would share it.
Jesus, lover of my soul,
Let me to Thy bosom fly,
While the nearer waters roll,
While the tempest still is high.
Hide me, O my Savior, hide,
Till the storm of life is past;
Safe into the haven guide;
Oh, receive my soul at last.
Other refuge have I none,
Hangs my helpless soul on Thee;
Leave, ah! leave me not alone,
Still support and comfort me.
All my trust on Thee is stayed,
All my help from Thee I bring;
Cover my defenseless head
With the shadow of Thy wing.
Wilt Thou not regard my call?
Wilt Thou not accept my prayer?
Lo! I sink, I faint, I fall—
Lo! on Thee I cast my care.
Reach me out Thy gracious hand!
While I of Thy strength receive,
Hoping against hope I stand,
Dying, and behold, I live.
Thou, O Christ, art all I want,
More than all in Thee I find;
Raise the fallen, cheer the faint,
Heal the sick, and lead the blind.
Just and holy is Thy Name,
Source of all true righteousness;
Thou art evermore the same,
Thou art full of truth and grace.
Plenteous grace with Thee is found,
Grace to cover all my sin;
Let the healing streams abound;
Make and keep me pure within.
Thou of life the fountain art,
Freely let me take of Thee;
Spring Thou up within my heart;
Rise to all eternity.
Zac and Ethan went for the doctor appointments this morning. It appears like Zac has the Flu, possibly the H1N1 version. He is on bedrest and isolation, trying to protect Ethan and Amber, but according to the peditrician, it's likely the entire household will come down with something. Ethan appears to have a viral infection. Amber told me this evening that he was fussy, but he had more energy than yesterday. Amber, on the other hand, has much less energy today. ;) Keeping up with Ethan and a sick husband hasn't been a picnic. We're hoping both Amber and Ethan can avoid coming down with whatever Zac has. They did some blookwork on Zac and we should know more after that is evaluated.
Mike's day began SLOW. He was still in bed when I called him at 11:30. That's more boredom than anything else. He was blessed today to have a friend stop by and visit with him a little while.
I'm doing much better, but it's like problems line up infront of us daily and wear me out fast. Today we were called by our medical insurance company, threatening to end our insurance because they never received a fax I sent the end of July from the UPS store with some important residency information. I'm just thankful, someone bothered to call us to let us know what was going on. How can we fix anything without knowing?
I wonder if insurance companies understand the amount of pressure and energy it takes someone living with a chronic and serious illness. Mike and I have enough brain fog between the two of us, it's a miracle we can even function at times. You would think insurance companies would show a little compassion and grace. There is just so much on your mind...spending extra time to double and triple check things, is sheerly exhausting. We could use as much prayer as possible to stay protected.
Thank you for thinking about us enough to read our blog. I know a lot of the information may end up sounding like a broken record, but I'm confident, your faithful prayers are helping us fight this battle each moment of the day.
I came across a hymn today at work, written by Charles Wesly. The words just jumped off the page and spoke to my heart. I thought I would share it.
Jesus, lover of my soul,
Let me to Thy bosom fly,
While the nearer waters roll,
While the tempest still is high.
Hide me, O my Savior, hide,
Till the storm of life is past;
Safe into the haven guide;
Oh, receive my soul at last.
Other refuge have I none,
Hangs my helpless soul on Thee;
Leave, ah! leave me not alone,
Still support and comfort me.
All my trust on Thee is stayed,
All my help from Thee I bring;
Cover my defenseless head
With the shadow of Thy wing.
Wilt Thou not regard my call?
Wilt Thou not accept my prayer?
Lo! I sink, I faint, I fall—
Lo! on Thee I cast my care.
Reach me out Thy gracious hand!
While I of Thy strength receive,
Hoping against hope I stand,
Dying, and behold, I live.
Thou, O Christ, art all I want,
More than all in Thee I find;
Raise the fallen, cheer the faint,
Heal the sick, and lead the blind.
Just and holy is Thy Name,
Source of all true righteousness;
Thou art evermore the same,
Thou art full of truth and grace.
Plenteous grace with Thee is found,
Grace to cover all my sin;
Let the healing streams abound;
Make and keep me pure within.
Thou of life the fountain art,
Freely let me take of Thee;
Spring Thou up within my heart;
Rise to all eternity.
10.21.2009
Tonight we need prayer for our grandson, Ethan (23 months), and for his daddy, Zac. Both had a fever today around 103. Both have doctor appointments in the morning. Please pray God's protection over them, that this isn't the Flu, and that they would heal quickly. As everyone knows, we're needing to be so careful around Mike.
Speaking of Mike, he's dropped a little weight in the past couple of days and has felt weak. We're still having trouble getting him to eat when he constantly feels full. It's difficult for me not to panic and try to push food at Mike. I'm desperate to help him and I'm terrified with how frail he is. I need to remember to take a breath and lay all of this at God's feet.
Mike gets visited by Dr. H on Wednesdays, and today he especially enjoyed watching him plane some wood in his shop at his home. Mike enjoys having the company of friends. He especially gets lonely on days when I'm at work. (Wednesdays-Fridays)
His sister and brother-in-law moved out of our guest house this past weekend. They bought a home in the area and are not too far from where I work. We're hoping a day may come where Mike will feel well enough to ride to work with me, so Mike could drop by there and spend some time with them. I think a change of scenery helps on days when he feels well.
He isn't able to drive for the time being. He drove himself to physical therapy in the Miata last Thursday, and accidentally bumped into their building wall, damaging the front fender. His reaction time just isn't there these days. We'll wait until he gets a little stronger before attempting that again.
Thank you for checking to see how we're doing and for lifting our needs before God. Even though it has been hard at times to understand the purpose behind all of this, we continue to trust God is using it to bring Him glory and to strengthen our walk with Him.
Speaking of Mike, he's dropped a little weight in the past couple of days and has felt weak. We're still having trouble getting him to eat when he constantly feels full. It's difficult for me not to panic and try to push food at Mike. I'm desperate to help him and I'm terrified with how frail he is. I need to remember to take a breath and lay all of this at God's feet.
Mike gets visited by Dr. H on Wednesdays, and today he especially enjoyed watching him plane some wood in his shop at his home. Mike enjoys having the company of friends. He especially gets lonely on days when I'm at work. (Wednesdays-Fridays)
His sister and brother-in-law moved out of our guest house this past weekend. They bought a home in the area and are not too far from where I work. We're hoping a day may come where Mike will feel well enough to ride to work with me, so Mike could drop by there and spend some time with them. I think a change of scenery helps on days when he feels well.
He isn't able to drive for the time being. He drove himself to physical therapy in the Miata last Thursday, and accidentally bumped into their building wall, damaging the front fender. His reaction time just isn't there these days. We'll wait until he gets a little stronger before attempting that again.
Thank you for checking to see how we're doing and for lifting our needs before God. Even though it has been hard at times to understand the purpose behind all of this, we continue to trust God is using it to bring Him glory and to strengthen our walk with Him.
10.20.2009
Significant Issues
Mike's result from his swallowing test today revealed "significant issues." They believe speech therapy will help, but they told Mike they may never get him back to where he was before. They have given him a few exercises to do while further therapy is being set up. We do not know what that will entail. I suspect if we haven't heard anything by next Wednesday, Mike's oncologist will give us more details, when we recieve the CT scan results. We would appreciate your continued prayers.
10.19.2009
Doctor Appointments
God provided an angel for Mike and I today to drive us to LR for our doctor appointments. It was such a comfort to us and so helpful. I haven't been feeling well, and not having to deal with the stress of driving, concentrating on where I was and where I needed to be, allowed me to rest and not push myself so hard.
After arriving at the oncology building in LR, I went to check Mike in. We arrived a little early hoping it would help us meet my appointment nearby, scheduled less than an hour later. After a few minutes we realized a big mistake had been made when the appointment was scheduled. The scheduling nurse in RSVL set the scan up for our hometown hospital, not LR. As both offices were trying to figure out what to do, I was just thanking God, we had a "chauffeur".
We ended up having Mike stay at the oncology office with our friend, while I took our friends car to where my first appointment was. Then I returned to the oncology office, and they were finally able to work Mike's CT in around 12:30. We then drove to my other appointment and they took me in early, freeing us up to grab some lunch around 2 p.m. God worked it all out! Thank you so much, Russ!
So, we know the routine by now. There is no sense trying to get the results any sooner than our scheduled doctor visit next week. It is going to be a tough week waiting for the report.
Tomorrow we have the new swallowing test, at the hospital in town, which is suppose to determine what type of speech therapy Mike needs, and he will also have some lab work done. Another busy day, but local, and with rest times in between.
Thank you for continuing to pray for our needs, and for coming to our sides when we need you most. It has been such a blessing watching God work through all of you on our behalf.
After arriving at the oncology building in LR, I went to check Mike in. We arrived a little early hoping it would help us meet my appointment nearby, scheduled less than an hour later. After a few minutes we realized a big mistake had been made when the appointment was scheduled. The scheduling nurse in RSVL set the scan up for our hometown hospital, not LR. As both offices were trying to figure out what to do, I was just thanking God, we had a "chauffeur".
We ended up having Mike stay at the oncology office with our friend, while I took our friends car to where my first appointment was. Then I returned to the oncology office, and they were finally able to work Mike's CT in around 12:30. We then drove to my other appointment and they took me in early, freeing us up to grab some lunch around 2 p.m. God worked it all out! Thank you so much, Russ!
So, we know the routine by now. There is no sense trying to get the results any sooner than our scheduled doctor visit next week. It is going to be a tough week waiting for the report.
Tomorrow we have the new swallowing test, at the hospital in town, which is suppose to determine what type of speech therapy Mike needs, and he will also have some lab work done. Another busy day, but local, and with rest times in between.
Thank you for continuing to pray for our needs, and for coming to our sides when we need you most. It has been such a blessing watching God work through all of you on our behalf.
10.18.2009
Tomorrow
Tomorrow will require a lot of strength and courage for Mike and I. It will be a day full of doctor appointments in LR. Mike has very little energy, and we have very little time anymore to do the routine, so we're needing to use one day to accomplish a lot. I'm flaring again, so simply moving about is pretty painful and tiring.
Tomorrow morning Mike will have a full torso CT scan in LR. at 9:30 a.m. Then we'll need to make two other appointments for myself, keeping us in LR for about five hours. So the day will be lengthy and a challenge.
We would appreciate your prayers for a good report and for everything we'll need to get through the day. You are such a blessing to us and we are so grateful for your love, encouragement and support.
Tomorrow morning Mike will have a full torso CT scan in LR. at 9:30 a.m. Then we'll need to make two other appointments for myself, keeping us in LR for about five hours. So the day will be lengthy and a challenge.
We would appreciate your prayers for a good report and for everything we'll need to get through the day. You are such a blessing to us and we are so grateful for your love, encouragement and support.
10.17.2009
Pumpkin Party
Looking forward to a day of fun with our family for our annual Pumpkin party. The boys are old enough now to join us in carving/decorating pumpkins, roasting hot dogs over a bonfire, eating chili, and playing a few games. We were at MD Anderson at this time last year, so Mike and I are really looking forward to soaking up some family time today. It will be scaled back to what Mike is able to do now, but I'm sure it will put a smile on both of our faces and lift our hearts.
Please pray for protection over Mike.
Please pray for protection over Mike.
10.16.2009
The last few days have been a little harder on me than usual. I don't think I'm able to put into words exactly what I'm dealing with, but I particularly, need extra prayer for energy, less confusion, and emotional stability. I have a tendency to try and come across as handling things well, but to be perfectly honest, I'm struggling. My Rheumatologist changed some of my medications around last week and I'm not sleeping very well. Your prayers and understanding mean so much to me.
Mike is doing well. We have an appointment next Tuesday at the hospital for further testing on Mike's swallowing issue and we have made contact with the speech therapist. Mike will be seeing her following the results of next weeks appointment.
Thank you for caring about us and praying us through all of this.
Mike is doing well. We have an appointment next Tuesday at the hospital for further testing on Mike's swallowing issue and we have made contact with the speech therapist. Mike will be seeing her following the results of next weeks appointment.
Thank you for caring about us and praying us through all of this.
10.14.2009
Laughter is the Best Medicine
At times, when everything seems to be coming unglued around you and the weight is so heavy on your shoulders....the laughter of children can lift the spirit, and do a heart good. The above photo is of Drew and Ethan recently, captured on camera by Drew's mommy, on the cousins playdate.
10.13.2009
We learned today after dad's tests that there is nothing obstructing his throat, which is a good thing. According to the doctor his throat muscles have atrophied which is causing his difficulty swallowing. He recommended speech therapy to help regain full function of those muscles which hopefully will help him swallow easier. Just what we need, a prescription for dad to talk more... :) Also, the doctor noticed that dad is not digesting his food very quickly and said that his pain medication could be the cause for this. There was some talk about whether a feeding tube was necessary to help him get enough nutrition since his body isn't processing it very quickly, but they've decided to wait and monitor him for right now since dad is doing better about eating these past few weeks.
I think that's the majority of what I was told this morning. We're very pleased that nothing too serious is wrong and hope that with some help he can be able to swallow more freely in the future and continue to gain some weight.
I think that's the majority of what I was told this morning. We're very pleased that nothing too serious is wrong and hope that with some help he can be able to swallow more freely in the future and continue to gain some weight.
I hesitate blogging this late at night, because I always get more sentimental late at night. But I'm just feeling so grateful following a visit with one of Mike's friends from Missouri this evening. Mike worked with Kent years ago in Missouri, and he and his wife Terri have stayed in touch with us and been such a blessing. Ken is a truck driver and had a load needing to be delievered to this area, and spent the evening with us, laughing and talking.
Family and friends make all the difference in situations like Mike's and mine. That human contact...not really needing to say very much, but just giving those loving smiles and big hugs, minister to us deeply. For those who live miles away, or those we are blessed to have near by; knowing your prayers and thoughts are with us, are like a huge patchwork quilt wrapped tightly around us in one big hug. Thank you so much for caring so deeply about us. We do not overlook the special things you do to show your feelings. The blessings replay over and over in our hearts and mind, and God's goodness and mercy pours over us like a healing balm.
We will be leaving early in the morning for LR, for Mike's procedure at 8:30 a.m. Mike's fear is that they won't find anything...causing the swallowing problem. My fear is that they will find something. So I don't know how to request prayer. I just know we'll continue to trust God to walk through this journey with us and help us to live each day as it comes.
Love,
Beverly
Family and friends make all the difference in situations like Mike's and mine. That human contact...not really needing to say very much, but just giving those loving smiles and big hugs, minister to us deeply. For those who live miles away, or those we are blessed to have near by; knowing your prayers and thoughts are with us, are like a huge patchwork quilt wrapped tightly around us in one big hug. Thank you so much for caring so deeply about us. We do not overlook the special things you do to show your feelings. The blessings replay over and over in our hearts and mind, and God's goodness and mercy pours over us like a healing balm.
We will be leaving early in the morning for LR, for Mike's procedure at 8:30 a.m. Mike's fear is that they won't find anything...causing the swallowing problem. My fear is that they will find something. So I don't know how to request prayer. I just know we'll continue to trust God to walk through this journey with us and help us to live each day as it comes.
Love,
Beverly
10.08.2009
Update
Dad has an appointment early Tuesday morning in LR to get his throat checked out and possibly have anything "fixed" that isn't working correctly. I believe that means he might have another dilation of his esophagus, but we'll know more late Tuesday. They're having him get off his blood thinner and fast the night before, so that usually means they're going to be ready to do a procedure if necessary.
My dad called earlier this evening to let me know that he had received the results of his tests, finally. Oddly, everything came back fine, which would ordinarily seem like great news, except it doesn't explain why he's having a hard time swallowing. He can hardly swallow a normal sized bite. So, they plan on contacting one of their doctors in LR to see what else can be done to eliminate this problem. I believe this is also the doctor who ordered the test in the first place. Hopefully they can get some more help from him.
I did get to see my dad today and I feel he has definitely gained some weight. Where his cheeks once appeared quite sunken in, today they seemed to be a bit fuller. It may have just been hopeful thinking, but I'll take it. I was also so pleased to see him eat most of the fast food we had for lunch.
So please continue to keep both of my parents in your prayers. Please pray that the doctors will be able to figure out what they can do for dad to help with his swallowing difficulty and to help him gain more weight and strength. Please pray for my mom as she is dealing with the stresses of doing it all at home and working outside the home as well. It's alot for anyone to deal with, let alone someone with their own health issues as well.
Thank you so much for your continued care and concern for my family.
My dad called earlier this evening to let me know that he had received the results of his tests, finally. Oddly, everything came back fine, which would ordinarily seem like great news, except it doesn't explain why he's having a hard time swallowing. He can hardly swallow a normal sized bite. So, they plan on contacting one of their doctors in LR to see what else can be done to eliminate this problem. I believe this is also the doctor who ordered the test in the first place. Hopefully they can get some more help from him.
I did get to see my dad today and I feel he has definitely gained some weight. Where his cheeks once appeared quite sunken in, today they seemed to be a bit fuller. It may have just been hopeful thinking, but I'll take it. I was also so pleased to see him eat most of the fast food we had for lunch.
So please continue to keep both of my parents in your prayers. Please pray that the doctors will be able to figure out what they can do for dad to help with his swallowing difficulty and to help him gain more weight and strength. Please pray for my mom as she is dealing with the stresses of doing it all at home and working outside the home as well. It's alot for anyone to deal with, let alone someone with their own health issues as well.
Thank you so much for your continued care and concern for my family.
10.07.2009
No Word Still...............
Dear Family and Friends,
Mike and I haven't heard very much about the results from last Friday's test on Mike. We were told today, there has been no report put in Mike's file, in the oncology office. Mike called and left a message for the oncologist to contact us, but we never were called back this evening. So unfortunately, this leaves us waiting some more. When we hear anything, we will update you.
Other than this, Mike is doing well. I made his favorite meal this evening.....roast beef, mashed potatoes, and gravy, but...he couldn't enjoy it. Every bite kept getting caught in his throat. The only thing that helped, was drinking milk with the meal, and that quickly filled him up. It has been a little frustrating. But on the positive side of things.....Mike has been snacking often, and I'm hoping that will add some pounds to him. It sure works well for me! ;)
Thank you for your continued love and support,
Beverly
Mike and I haven't heard very much about the results from last Friday's test on Mike. We were told today, there has been no report put in Mike's file, in the oncology office. Mike called and left a message for the oncologist to contact us, but we never were called back this evening. So unfortunately, this leaves us waiting some more. When we hear anything, we will update you.
Other than this, Mike is doing well. I made his favorite meal this evening.....roast beef, mashed potatoes, and gravy, but...he couldn't enjoy it. Every bite kept getting caught in his throat. The only thing that helped, was drinking milk with the meal, and that quickly filled him up. It has been a little frustrating. But on the positive side of things.....Mike has been snacking often, and I'm hoping that will add some pounds to him. It sure works well for me! ;)
Thank you for your continued love and support,
Beverly
10.06.2009
I have not received any updated news about dad's procedure last Friday. But he did have a good weekend. He felt well enough to go to Sunday School for the first time in a while and he also went to physical therapy again yesterday afternoon. According to my mom he's been feeling much better this weekend.
Please keep my mom in prayer today as she goes to her doctor's appointment in Fayetteville. It's a long way to travel in this weather and I'm assuming she'll be going by herself. Please pray for her safety and that she'll be able to get the answer and assistance from her doctor that she needs.
As soon as I hear anything concerning my dad's tests, I will update you.
Please keep my mom in prayer today as she goes to her doctor's appointment in Fayetteville. It's a long way to travel in this weather and I'm assuming she'll be going by herself. Please pray for her safety and that she'll be able to get the answer and assistance from her doctor that she needs.
As soon as I hear anything concerning my dad's tests, I will update you.
10.02.2009
Dad's procedure early this morning had to do with a barium drink and pill....at least I believe that's what it's all about. It did show that stuff is getting stuck around his pharynx. They should have final results on Monday and will determine what to do at that point. In the past dad has had to have his esophagus dilated. He tried explaining that to me earlier and it involved something about these "rings" getting constricted due to acid reflux. It's all greek to me, so I'm not sure I'm explaining it right at all. I believe this to be fairly minor, but please keep him in your prayers so that he is able to continue to eat comfortably and put on some more weight.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)