Well, I have to admit that I thought about skipping the post this month. then I saw that people were checking my blog so I may be doing 2 in a very short period of time. So what has kept me away? Life is twirling fast in the Andrews home and time goes by a blink of the eye. Cody has been busy with his wrestling but the matches haven't begun yet....next week. Katie has had 3 swim meets and she has placed 3rd in overall heats for the Freestyle. She has skimmed seconds off her time and from what I hear that is her goal each heat. So good job Katie :)
This month I went with my sister-in-law and daughter to Chicago. Thank you Diva for showing us Andrews a great time! Katie and I both so enjoyed our trip but we both admitted the big cities are fun to visit. We hit the American Girl Cafe' for lunch and shopped until our legs wore out. Our Diva showed us the popular places to dine and we all laughed so hard during the Blue Man Group performance. The Andrews family also had our Thanksgiving Day tradition. We went to Grandma & Grandpa's house for turkey time and attempted to play a game of scrabble. We ran out of time & that was OK as most of us ended up with the dreaded letters. Vicky and Cody had about 4 I's at one time; that should count for some letter redraw! The next day we headed to our friends home in Ohio. I believe there were about 30 people roaming the "Hursh Hotel" as we call it for a couple of day. With Debbie's fabulous hospitality we left a few pounds heavy and our hearts lighter for having been able to connect with family & friends.
Tom and I also made a trip to Ann Arbor a few days before Thanksgiving. Tom had CT scan of the neck and chest and a MRI. As the MRI was a later addition and the test did not happen until 5:00 pm and we were not able to get the results the next morning. However the CT scan came back stable. I am a little confused as to what "stable" means after this visit. Though the result was stable there is a new spot found on Tom's lower right lung. The spot is so small that it can't be measured. Tom and Dr. Worden also visited the reflex issue Tom experiences at night. They gave Tom another couple of prescriptions to attempt to control this from happening. It was also mentioned that Tom should make an appointment with his ENT in GR so that they can take a look at his Esophagus and determine if they can stretch it or do anything that will help. It is assumed that with all the scar tissue that Tom incurred during his surgery, it is effecting the acid and possibly squeezing tightly his throat. However, I noticed that when they started talking about Traching, the discussion was steered from Tom into other possibilities....can't say that I blame him for that one :)
Tom's case is to go before the Cancer Tumor board. We thought it would initially happen last Tuesday, so I held off posting. However we were called and told that it will be reviewed on the 4th of December.
I received news from my mother that her needle biopsy of the thyroid did not show any cancer or anything suspicious. That is good news indeed. However I received an e-mail from a friend stating that her husband has been diagnosed with cancer & that he had surgery and will begin chemotherapy/radiation very soon. My heart breaks for her as her husband has an aggressive and fast growing cancer. She was there for me in all Tom's stages and I feel so helpless in words/actions of how to be there for her. All I can do is be strong & pray for her and her family. I try to be encouraging as others have done for us during these difficult days.
1 Thessalonians 4:10 "For night and day we pray for on and on for you, asking God to let us see you again, to fill up any little cracks there may yet be in your faith."
Friday, November 30, 2012
Friday, October 26, 2012
Hanging On
Football season has ended. Katie cheered on the 7th and 8th graders, whichever team was playing at home. She enjoyed it very much and considered trying out for the Competitive Cheer. It interferes with swimming, so I think she will have to wait until next year to cheer. Cody survived his first varsity football season. He enjoyed getting out on the field and had some playing time. We heard his name on the speakers and cheered every time. Kyle took a lot a great senior pictures and it has been hard to pick, but I think we have them narrowed down to our few favorites. Kyle and Tom went to play air-soft for a cancer fundraising event and Tom became instantly addicted. We'll have to wait and see if the old man can keep up with his sons :) Cody was not able to join in the air-softing fun as it was the same night as Homecoming, smart boy! He and his girlfriend had a great time and I finally got a picture of Cody smiling.
Tom received his first dose of the injection to strengthen his spine. The first day he said he felt a little sore. Within 24 hours it hit him like a train wreck. He had bone and muscle pain, high fever, etc. I was so glad that most of his side effects lessened within the day. Next month Tom will be taking a dose of Tylenol before getting the infusion so that it will hopefully keep some of the effects at bay.
A couple of weeks ago Tom saw the Radiology Oncologist here in GR. There was some concern about Tom getting radiated again because the area was already been treated back in 2007. Tom's case was brought to the Tumor Board so that his treatment could be discussed. Today we had a follow up appointment to find out the treatment plan for Tom's tumor in his C6-C7 vertebrae. Dr. Buth stated that there has been no significant change in the September scans and no evidence of weakness. The board recommends that they keep watching it. He explained that the spinal cord has resistance to radiation but pushing it too far causes damages similar to a serious injury including the chance of paralysis.
He recommends that Tom have another MRI added to his scan at the U of M so that the tumor can be evaluated for change when he goes in November. If treatment is need he is recommending the type of radiation to use is SBRT (Stereotatic Body Radio Therapy) which wraps around the bone. As Dr. Buth has only done this a few time and does not have the expertise, he would like Tom to be referred to the Henry Ford Hospital where their team would have the experience.
I left feeling frustrated at the bouncing to all the different hospitals and that the treatment is not plowing ahead. Tom reminded me that his cancer is rare and very complicated. He is not a typical case & they are sending him out to "the best" to care for him. I have since e-mail the nurse at the U of M and request the MRI to be scheduled when we are there, and Dr. Buth's recommendation. She is ordering the Spinal MRI and talked this over with Dr. Worden. Tom is again being brought to the Board at U of M once the next scans are complete and read.
This is our life. We have lived a roller coaster for over 5 years. I have to give Tom credit for always staying positive and keeping up the fight. I have said before that if I were in his shoes I'm not so sure I would handle it the same way. Thanks again to my prayer warriors and those who "follow" Tom's progress. We all keep each other going with words of encouragement. To my new UK friends...thanks for your monthly comments, hang in there and never give up hope, it our best line of defense.
Psalms 94:19 "Lord, when doubts fill my mind, when my heart is in turmoil, quiet me and give me renewed hope and cheer."
Tom received his first dose of the injection to strengthen his spine. The first day he said he felt a little sore. Within 24 hours it hit him like a train wreck. He had bone and muscle pain, high fever, etc. I was so glad that most of his side effects lessened within the day. Next month Tom will be taking a dose of Tylenol before getting the infusion so that it will hopefully keep some of the effects at bay.
A couple of weeks ago Tom saw the Radiology Oncologist here in GR. There was some concern about Tom getting radiated again because the area was already been treated back in 2007. Tom's case was brought to the Tumor Board so that his treatment could be discussed. Today we had a follow up appointment to find out the treatment plan for Tom's tumor in his C6-C7 vertebrae. Dr. Buth stated that there has been no significant change in the September scans and no evidence of weakness. The board recommends that they keep watching it. He explained that the spinal cord has resistance to radiation but pushing it too far causes damages similar to a serious injury including the chance of paralysis.
He recommends that Tom have another MRI added to his scan at the U of M so that the tumor can be evaluated for change when he goes in November. If treatment is need he is recommending the type of radiation to use is SBRT (Stereotatic Body Radio Therapy) which wraps around the bone. As Dr. Buth has only done this a few time and does not have the expertise, he would like Tom to be referred to the Henry Ford Hospital where their team would have the experience.
I left feeling frustrated at the bouncing to all the different hospitals and that the treatment is not plowing ahead. Tom reminded me that his cancer is rare and very complicated. He is not a typical case & they are sending him out to "the best" to care for him. I have since e-mail the nurse at the U of M and request the MRI to be scheduled when we are there, and Dr. Buth's recommendation. She is ordering the Spinal MRI and talked this over with Dr. Worden. Tom is again being brought to the Board at U of M once the next scans are complete and read.
This is our life. We have lived a roller coaster for over 5 years. I have to give Tom credit for always staying positive and keeping up the fight. I have said before that if I were in his shoes I'm not so sure I would handle it the same way. Thanks again to my prayer warriors and those who "follow" Tom's progress. We all keep each other going with words of encouragement. To my new UK friends...thanks for your monthly comments, hang in there and never give up hope, it our best line of defense.
Psalms 94:19 "Lord, when doubts fill my mind, when my heart is in turmoil, quiet me and give me renewed hope and cheer."
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Tumor Board Treatment Plan
Today is a beautiful sunny fall day! I see the fall colors starting to blend and it makes me appreciate this time of year. Today Kyle is getting his Senior Pictures taken and I can hardly believe that our little family is at this stepping stone already. Tom is going to attempt to play air soft next month with Kyle at a cancer fundraiser in Kalamazoo. They are both getting pumped up about it. Cody has been busy with the varsity football team. They printed his name as Cole so Tom and I are having a little fun with that. Katie has been enjoying her sideline cheerleading on Wednesday night as she looks so grown up out in the stadium.
Tom received a call from Dr. Worden's office with their decision of treatment from the Tumor Board this week. He will receive Radiation on the C-6, C-7 area of his neck. Tom has chosen to have his radiation here in GR and has a consultation with Dr. Buth on October 11. Tom will also start infusions once a month with a bone strengthening drug called Zometa which has many of the same side effects that he experienced with chemo. He is not looking forward to this as he has enjoyed tasting food once again. Tom and I will head back to U of M on November 21 & 22 for Tom's scans/blood work and results.
Tom has also asked to have an Oncologist here in GR that could follow Dr. Worden's direction for treatment while staying closer to home. Tom is discussing all these steps with his Case Manager at our insurance company to make sure we do not have any surprises.
Going back a couple of weeks ago when Tom received the CT scan results from his PCP that stated the cancer continues to have "interval growth" I asked him how he felt about getting the call. I said I know that this is not surprising news, but how do you feel about it? He replied that he has confidence in the Tumor Board and Dr. Worden's team. He stays very positive. I hope that is not all for the families sake. I truly believe that one's outlook helps to determine the outcome. I know that these last 5 years have changed us in more ways than can be relayed in these monthly updates.
Thanks to my prayer warriors who continue to check in with us and keep the us on their daily lists. Tom and I could not make it through all of this and continue to press on without all the support we've received. I have also learned to be a better prayer warrior myself for others who share life's trials with me. 1 Peter 3:8 "You should be like on e big happy family, full of sympathy toward each other, loving one another with tender hearts and humble minds."
Tom received a call from Dr. Worden's office with their decision of treatment from the Tumor Board this week. He will receive Radiation on the C-6, C-7 area of his neck. Tom has chosen to have his radiation here in GR and has a consultation with Dr. Buth on October 11. Tom will also start infusions once a month with a bone strengthening drug called Zometa which has many of the same side effects that he experienced with chemo. He is not looking forward to this as he has enjoyed tasting food once again. Tom and I will head back to U of M on November 21 & 22 for Tom's scans/blood work and results.
Tom has also asked to have an Oncologist here in GR that could follow Dr. Worden's direction for treatment while staying closer to home. Tom is discussing all these steps with his Case Manager at our insurance company to make sure we do not have any surprises.
Going back a couple of weeks ago when Tom received the CT scan results from his PCP that stated the cancer continues to have "interval growth" I asked him how he felt about getting the call. I said I know that this is not surprising news, but how do you feel about it? He replied that he has confidence in the Tumor Board and Dr. Worden's team. He stays very positive. I hope that is not all for the families sake. I truly believe that one's outlook helps to determine the outcome. I know that these last 5 years have changed us in more ways than can be relayed in these monthly updates.
Thanks to my prayer warriors who continue to check in with us and keep the us on their daily lists. Tom and I could not make it through all of this and continue to press on without all the support we've received. I have also learned to be a better prayer warrior myself for others who share life's trials with me. 1 Peter 3:8 "You should be like on e big happy family, full of sympathy toward each other, loving one another with tender hearts and humble minds."
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Good to be back to Blue!
I need to start this post with something that I feel is extremely important. This year we had 24 Team members join our Relay for Life of Barry County. What an important event in the fight against cancer. I can't exaggerate how important this organization is and what it does for research, treatment and overall funding. We had 2 team members walk the 24 hour Endurance walk...walking over 28 miles. Our daughter Katie and her friend walked 22 miles. Our son Cody came out for the first time and he said that he would like to do it again next year. We had friends and family stop in from as far north a Mt. Pleasant and south as Kalamazoo. I have to say the Silent lap was the most emotional for me as we walked a silent lap in memory of those who lost the fight. Immediately afterward the Luminary bags were light around the track in memory and honor of all cancer patients (even some K-9 bags were made). It is quite humbling to see to say the least.
OK, so now onto what everyone has been looking for: Tom and I headed to Detroit early Tuesday morning. We knew this would be an interesting visit as Tom's doctor and the Clinical Manager were both out of the office. Tom checked in, had his vitals and labs done then the doctor came into the room stating that Tom was to have a biopsy done as there was no conclusion in regards to whether the scan showed evidence of cancer. Tom and I gave each other the deer in the headlight look. Apparently his oncologist did not complete the report prior to his departure. He had called Tom the day after his scan to let us know that Tom was out of the Clinical Trial and that he would like to start Tom on the FDA approved drug. Tom informed him that he would be going back to his oncologist at the U of M to discuss options. We were supposed to be there to exit out of the program. There seemed to be a lot of confusion at this visit as the doctor was unaware of what was going on after the last MRI. We received paperwork that requested an additional follow up with Dr. Ali. When Tom and I asked what for, there was no answer. Tom will be calling the hospital next week but be assured that was our last visit. I know that Tom was there for the benefit of the drug. I am not saying that we had terrible care, but Tom kept stating that he was just a rat. As we exited the doors for the last time I think we both took in a breath of fresh air.
We spent the night at Tom's cousins home. Thanks again Dawn and Tom for opening up your home to us. We went to Side Track Bar and Grill and enjoyed dinner on the patio and good conversation. It was a working weekday for them so hopefully we didn't bother their schedules too much. It was such a pleasant evening :)
Wednesday we went to the U of M for a consultation. It is scary to be put in the same room you've had twice before and not had the best of news. I laughed and said "Three time's the charm" :) After a mound of paperwork and answering lots of questions, we have started a plan. The CD with all Tom's scans were given to their Radiologist to review. Tom will have a new CT of the chest scanned here in GR and it will be sent to the U of M Radiation department. Once all this has been reviewed Tom's case will go before the Tumor board it will be determined if Tom will be watched for tumor growth, have radiation of the C6-C7 vertebrae, or if he will be put on Vandetanib. At this point Dr. Worden stated that Tom has been through a lot these last two years on the XL-184 and would like to give him a break. Dr. Worden stated that the soft tissue has been stable and the cancer may have found another genetic path through the bone. If so, he believed treating it locally to be the best way to go. The side effects for this new drug is very similar to the XL-184 and he didn't want to put Tom's body through this unless there were definite signs of metastatic growth. He is concerned about quantity as well as quality of life.
Though Tom is a little concerned that taking nothing may mean that the cancer will spread, he was relieved that he can feel normal again for a while at least. Tom has been eating very well this last month, he is looking healthier (goodbye pasty white skin) and has gained energy. Tom's mind seems to be clearer and I notice his attitude about life has improved in the last month. I am happy to have my hubby back!
As I walked the silent lap last Friday I couldn't help but think someday this could be me walking in memory of my husband. I really had to fight back the tears and my heart went out to those who were walking in memory of someone close to them.
Psalms 42:5 "Why be downcast? Why be discouraged and sad? Hope in God! I shall yet praise him again. Yes, I shall again praise him for his help."
OK, so now onto what everyone has been looking for: Tom and I headed to Detroit early Tuesday morning. We knew this would be an interesting visit as Tom's doctor and the Clinical Manager were both out of the office. Tom checked in, had his vitals and labs done then the doctor came into the room stating that Tom was to have a biopsy done as there was no conclusion in regards to whether the scan showed evidence of cancer. Tom and I gave each other the deer in the headlight look. Apparently his oncologist did not complete the report prior to his departure. He had called Tom the day after his scan to let us know that Tom was out of the Clinical Trial and that he would like to start Tom on the FDA approved drug. Tom informed him that he would be going back to his oncologist at the U of M to discuss options. We were supposed to be there to exit out of the program. There seemed to be a lot of confusion at this visit as the doctor was unaware of what was going on after the last MRI. We received paperwork that requested an additional follow up with Dr. Ali. When Tom and I asked what for, there was no answer. Tom will be calling the hospital next week but be assured that was our last visit. I know that Tom was there for the benefit of the drug. I am not saying that we had terrible care, but Tom kept stating that he was just a rat. As we exited the doors for the last time I think we both took in a breath of fresh air.
We spent the night at Tom's cousins home. Thanks again Dawn and Tom for opening up your home to us. We went to Side Track Bar and Grill and enjoyed dinner on the patio and good conversation. It was a working weekday for them so hopefully we didn't bother their schedules too much. It was such a pleasant evening :)
Wednesday we went to the U of M for a consultation. It is scary to be put in the same room you've had twice before and not had the best of news. I laughed and said "Three time's the charm" :) After a mound of paperwork and answering lots of questions, we have started a plan. The CD with all Tom's scans were given to their Radiologist to review. Tom will have a new CT of the chest scanned here in GR and it will be sent to the U of M Radiation department. Once all this has been reviewed Tom's case will go before the Tumor board it will be determined if Tom will be watched for tumor growth, have radiation of the C6-C7 vertebrae, or if he will be put on Vandetanib. At this point Dr. Worden stated that Tom has been through a lot these last two years on the XL-184 and would like to give him a break. Dr. Worden stated that the soft tissue has been stable and the cancer may have found another genetic path through the bone. If so, he believed treating it locally to be the best way to go. The side effects for this new drug is very similar to the XL-184 and he didn't want to put Tom's body through this unless there were definite signs of metastatic growth. He is concerned about quantity as well as quality of life.
Though Tom is a little concerned that taking nothing may mean that the cancer will spread, he was relieved that he can feel normal again for a while at least. Tom has been eating very well this last month, he is looking healthier (goodbye pasty white skin) and has gained energy. Tom's mind seems to be clearer and I notice his attitude about life has improved in the last month. I am happy to have my hubby back!
As I walked the silent lap last Friday I couldn't help but think someday this could be me walking in memory of my husband. I really had to fight back the tears and my heart went out to those who were walking in memory of someone close to them.
Psalms 42:5 "Why be downcast? Why be discouraged and sad? Hope in God! I shall yet praise him again. Yes, I shall again praise him for his help."
Monday, July 30, 2012
Plan B/The end of XL-184
On Sunday Tom and I headed back to West Bloomfield for his intensive MRI scan. It was another pretty drive and the traffic was not too heavy for a Sunday. The MRI took about an hour. During the last scan Tom could not hold in his cough and they had to repeat the 5 minute scan. I feel so bad with Tom's neck surgery, he has a hard time with speaking, swallowing, no coughing ordeals.
Today Tom received a phone call from Dr. Ali stating that the MRI scans showed the cancer has metastasized to the C6-C7 vertebrae. Tom is off the drug and will need to go back in August to exit the study. Dr. Ali did say that he would like to go before the board and to confirm that he will be removed from the trial. He did talk about putting Tom on the Vandetanib or another drug that can be prescribed to MTC patients.
Tom is probably going to take another approach; he is planning to call his primary doctor and get a referral back to Dr. Worden at the U of M. After a couple visits to Ann Arbor he can possibly move his care to one of Dr. Worden's colleagues in Grand Rapids. We have talked about this option since our January visit with Dr. Worden; a Plan B of sorts.
While the XL-184 was not perfect, it did give us two more years together. I am asking my prayer warriors to please keep us in mind. Tom does very well in these circumstances, and I just tend to fret and become the grumpy caretaker (as he calls me). We need a clear plan as to Tom' treatment and hope that he will have a better quality of life.
1 Peter 4:12 "Dear friends, don't be bewildered or surprised when you go through the fiery trials ahead, for this is not strange, unusual thing that is going to happen to you."
Today Tom received a phone call from Dr. Ali stating that the MRI scans showed the cancer has metastasized to the C6-C7 vertebrae. Tom is off the drug and will need to go back in August to exit the study. Dr. Ali did say that he would like to go before the board and to confirm that he will be removed from the trial. He did talk about putting Tom on the Vandetanib or another drug that can be prescribed to MTC patients.
Tom is probably going to take another approach; he is planning to call his primary doctor and get a referral back to Dr. Worden at the U of M. After a couple visits to Ann Arbor he can possibly move his care to one of Dr. Worden's colleagues in Grand Rapids. We have talked about this option since our January visit with Dr. Worden; a Plan B of sorts.
While the XL-184 was not perfect, it did give us two more years together. I am asking my prayer warriors to please keep us in mind. Tom does very well in these circumstances, and I just tend to fret and become the grumpy caretaker (as he calls me). We need a clear plan as to Tom' treatment and hope that he will have a better quality of life.
1 Peter 4:12 "Dear friends, don't be bewildered or surprised when you go through the fiery trials ahead, for this is not strange, unusual thing that is going to happen to you."
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Scan, Scans, Scans & More Scans
Tom, Katie, and I headed back to Detroit this month for Tom's scans & results. This has been a very trying month for Tom physically. He has been trying to eat better than before and attempting to be up & moving with 3 active kids, getting his backyard around, and keep pushing himself everyday to be moving. The record heat has really pushed Tom's limits also. He is fatigued and....grumpy! We had many discussions about Tom needing a break from the drug. I of course kept telling him he needed to stay on the drug and poo poohing his need to take a breather. To tell the truth I'm afraid that if he goes off and feels better, he'll chose not to go back on.
Sunday Tom had his first scan and off to the Tigers we went. What a game! It was a great game and we enjoyed watching them win. It was hard on Tom to sit in the sun and heat but he didn't want to miss a minute. Monday was his other scans and he was in good spirits when we got back to the Guest house. He seems to react better to some contrasts than others.
Tuesday we headed to our meeting with Dr. Ali to get the results. His Clinical Manager talked with Tom about the possibility of reducing his dosage as he is having a hard time this past month. She said he is currently the only one on the study taking such a high dose of drug. Dr. Ali said that Tom's Bone scan came in stable. He stated that the CT scan is showing that the lesions in his liver & pancreas are stable. He was concerned with the change in the vertebrae (c6 & c7). This could be progression of the disease, but it could also be other causes. There needs to be another scan to take a closer look at this area. At this point he took Tom off the drug for 30 days. However, we know that if there is evidence of the cancer metastasizing again, Tom will be removed from the trial and we will be looking for other options.
When we got home tonight we received the call from the hospital for his MRI scan. On Sunday we will be heading back to Detroit for the day. Tom remains in good spirits joking about getting to enjoy a burrito and a cold beer this month. He was actually happy to hear the news of the break & smiled when the doctor first told us. I on the other hand sink into a quiet and gloomy state (being a good caretaker I am not). These realities hit harder than I am able to admit. I talk about having Tom here years longer than I believed was possible and that I understand how precious life is. It's another to remember that the odds are against him & to live with the fact that I selfishly want and expect many more. On the drive home I kept telling myself to lighten up, I know who is in control and what good does worrying do; so instead I prayed for the results and that we are prepared for the next steps in His plan. Lord help us through the next 30 days.
Proverbs 20:24 "Since the Lord is directing out steps, why try to understand everything that happens along the way?"
Sunday Tom had his first scan and off to the Tigers we went. What a game! It was a great game and we enjoyed watching them win. It was hard on Tom to sit in the sun and heat but he didn't want to miss a minute. Monday was his other scans and he was in good spirits when we got back to the Guest house. He seems to react better to some contrasts than others.
Tuesday we headed to our meeting with Dr. Ali to get the results. His Clinical Manager talked with Tom about the possibility of reducing his dosage as he is having a hard time this past month. She said he is currently the only one on the study taking such a high dose of drug. Dr. Ali said that Tom's Bone scan came in stable. He stated that the CT scan is showing that the lesions in his liver & pancreas are stable. He was concerned with the change in the vertebrae (c6 & c7). This could be progression of the disease, but it could also be other causes. There needs to be another scan to take a closer look at this area. At this point he took Tom off the drug for 30 days. However, we know that if there is evidence of the cancer metastasizing again, Tom will be removed from the trial and we will be looking for other options.
When we got home tonight we received the call from the hospital for his MRI scan. On Sunday we will be heading back to Detroit for the day. Tom remains in good spirits joking about getting to enjoy a burrito and a cold beer this month. He was actually happy to hear the news of the break & smiled when the doctor first told us. I on the other hand sink into a quiet and gloomy state (being a good caretaker I am not). These realities hit harder than I am able to admit. I talk about having Tom here years longer than I believed was possible and that I understand how precious life is. It's another to remember that the odds are against him & to live with the fact that I selfishly want and expect many more. On the drive home I kept telling myself to lighten up, I know who is in control and what good does worrying do; so instead I prayed for the results and that we are prepared for the next steps in His plan. Lord help us through the next 30 days.
Proverbs 20:24 "Since the Lord is directing out steps, why try to understand everything that happens along the way?"
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Today is a Present
It's funny how during the month I think...that was cool, I'll post that on my next blog. Then I sit down to share and I think, what should be the focus of my topic this time and what did I try to remember to share? I'll start with the kids: Kyle is still working during this summer, airsofting, and just enjoying the summer before his senior year. Cody is in Football camp this week, U of M football camp, and I hope he's enjoying it while learning from some pretty impressive coaches. He comes home tomorrow so we'll see how awesome it was! :) Katie is in basketball camp, AquatiCats swimming program and has her first meet tomorrow (thanks Grandpa and Grandma for getting her there). They are all enjoying some hazy lazy days of summer. Our family has been working very hard on the yard and getting the pool in. Tom is not up to vacationing and I love to soak up the sun. The kids love to float and swim so Merry Christmas Andrews family our vacation in our own backyard!
Tom is slowly going downhill. He is still struggling to take his Potassium. We've tried the liquid, the powder, and the pill forms. He sometimes can get the pill down, but the other two he can't swallow down due to the nasty taste. Some days he has an appetite, but many days he lives on soups, cereal, or just a few bites of his dinner. He mentioned that he needs more protein drinks for those nauseated days. When Tom was in Detroit last they mentioned that the trial will most likely be extended for another year. He was disappointed as he still would like to move his care back here to our side of the state. I try not to let him get too down. As he told his friend from Ohio, "I start to become a grumpy cancer patient until Val gives me a kick and tells me to straighten up" I just mention to him that life could be much different and that we make of it what we want.
A couple of weeks ago I was talking with a coworker who was having a bad day. Her husband has health issues and her mother is elderly and also needs care. She was feeling the weight of the world on her shoulders. I remember tell her that I didn't have great words of wisdom but could only say....You can't be everything to everyone or even someone. I can only hope that when I look back at my life I can say that I did the best that I could. That I have no guilt for what I did and did not do. She said Valerie, that's the best advice and I needed to hear that today.
We need to hold each other up and be understanding with one another during our struggles in life. We all live in precious moments and we don't always "get" what others are going through. I am still so very grateful for so many people that have walked with us these years. I can't thank my prayer warriors enough for what they helped me through. Our road has not always been easy and I'm not sure it will get any easier with this disease and its painful side effects of the drug. But I do know that when I wake up in the morning I am so glad that I have this day (this present) and am determined to make the most of it.
James 3:16-18 "For wherever there is jealousy or selfish ambition, there will be disorder and every other kind of evil. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure and full of quiet gentleness. Then it is peace-loving and courteous. It allows discussion and is willing to yield to others; it is full of mercy and good deeds. It is wholehearted and straightforward and sincere. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of goodness."
Tom is slowly going downhill. He is still struggling to take his Potassium. We've tried the liquid, the powder, and the pill forms. He sometimes can get the pill down, but the other two he can't swallow down due to the nasty taste. Some days he has an appetite, but many days he lives on soups, cereal, or just a few bites of his dinner. He mentioned that he needs more protein drinks for those nauseated days. When Tom was in Detroit last they mentioned that the trial will most likely be extended for another year. He was disappointed as he still would like to move his care back here to our side of the state. I try not to let him get too down. As he told his friend from Ohio, "I start to become a grumpy cancer patient until Val gives me a kick and tells me to straighten up" I just mention to him that life could be much different and that we make of it what we want.
A couple of weeks ago I was talking with a coworker who was having a bad day. Her husband has health issues and her mother is elderly and also needs care. She was feeling the weight of the world on her shoulders. I remember tell her that I didn't have great words of wisdom but could only say....You can't be everything to everyone or even someone. I can only hope that when I look back at my life I can say that I did the best that I could. That I have no guilt for what I did and did not do. She said Valerie, that's the best advice and I needed to hear that today.
We need to hold each other up and be understanding with one another during our struggles in life. We all live in precious moments and we don't always "get" what others are going through. I am still so very grateful for so many people that have walked with us these years. I can't thank my prayer warriors enough for what they helped me through. Our road has not always been easy and I'm not sure it will get any easier with this disease and its painful side effects of the drug. But I do know that when I wake up in the morning I am so glad that I have this day (this present) and am determined to make the most of it.
James 3:16-18 "For wherever there is jealousy or selfish ambition, there will be disorder and every other kind of evil. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure and full of quiet gentleness. Then it is peace-loving and courteous. It allows discussion and is willing to yield to others; it is full of mercy and good deeds. It is wholehearted and straightforward and sincere. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of goodness."
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