Let's see... two posts in one day... what do you know? It is just one of those days!
In case you want to know...
Many of you are familiar with the fact that different colors of ribbon represent different kinds of cancer. Many people are familiar with the breast cancer awareness ribbon's color of pink. Perhaps you are familiar with other cancer's ribbons as well. Do you know what color lymphoma's ribbon is? Let me tell you, as most people probably wouldn't know. I believe it is lime green. If you want to get specific to what type of cancer Ron is a warrior/survivor of, then you would need to find violet ribbon to support the war against Hodgkin's lymphoma. His color is violet. I thought it would be cool someday to have a gathering for him and everyone wear a violet ribbon... guess I would have to get something going. If you have any ideas, for I would really like to have a "Celebrate Survivorship" party for him. Please, don't tell him. I am hoping that he does not read my blog... actually, I might erase this post soon to try to prevent it from being "caught" by him. I will try to let you all in on a date, if I decide to go through with this "party." I need to know if there is interest, so if you go to my church, see me then, or you may email me asking for my phone number... Ron shares my email address, so don't say why. Thanks. He has been a tough warrior, and he deserves a "party" surrounded by those he loves!
Monday, December 7, 2009
Joy bells ring, are you listening?!
Smiles broke out here, along with "praise the Lord's" and almost shock, when the answer came today! The phone conversation was between Ron and OSU's The James. He was wanting the answer today... what did that PET scan say? The answer was that nothing had changed and he was stable. SOOO, if nothing had changed, then, that means that there were no positive areas of soft tissue malignancies! That is very good news. The hope that he is cured for good has begun here. He still has to be on alot of medications for now for GVHD, and other conditions, but things are looking up. Hopefully, in a few months, he can be weaned from these medications and the Cook family can march on. We will know more perhaps tomorrow, and in the weeks to come. I like to see the written copy of the PET scan results from the radiologist, so I can know the facts and details... which I should see tomorrow. There is excitement in the air here!
We need FAITH, that God can be trusted, that He can do anything that is in His Holy will, that He is good, that He anwers prayers, that He keeps His Word, and that no matter what happens, He is not making a mistake.
We need CHARITY, for love is the only way our family can survive the battles that come our way.
We need HOPE, that all things are working together for our good, that our sins are washed away, and that we are winners in life or death.
Prayer requests for this week:
1. That Ron's appointment tomorrow will be even more confirming of this miracle. That the insurance would stop giving us a hassle about one of Ron's meds.
2. I meet with the doc to discuss my annoying nodule on my thyroid on Wednesday and maybe she can explain the weird hot flashes I have been getting... If I were 45, I would be able to figure it out myself, but I am only 28, so I will talk to her about them.
Thank you for rejoicing with us! There is hope!
We need FAITH, that God can be trusted, that He can do anything that is in His Holy will, that He is good, that He anwers prayers, that He keeps His Word, and that no matter what happens, He is not making a mistake.
We need CHARITY, for love is the only way our family can survive the battles that come our way.
We need HOPE, that all things are working together for our good, that our sins are washed away, and that we are winners in life or death.
Prayer requests for this week:
1. That Ron's appointment tomorrow will be even more confirming of this miracle. That the insurance would stop giving us a hassle about one of Ron's meds.
2. I meet with the doc to discuss my annoying nodule on my thyroid on Wednesday and maybe she can explain the weird hot flashes I have been getting... If I were 45, I would be able to figure it out myself, but I am only 28, so I will talk to her about them.
Thank you for rejoicing with us! There is hope!
Friday, December 4, 2009
Hope mania
Well, I am sorry that I did not get pictures of the child's antics the last few days to share with y'all, but she has been a case! She is way too busy! Leave her for a moment and she might be diving into a cake or whatever food she can get her hands into... I just had to laugh when she got busted, for she was a mess from the cake eating crime and it would have made a hilarious picture! Then, another time she found a little left over coffee of mine that had cocoa in it and there was no hiding the guilt... she was a mess again...I was afraid she might stay hyper for too long. She has been "busy" for a long time, and keeps me on my toes. It started off with as soon as she could, she would climb... perching herself on top of the kitchen table was one of her favorites. I have to keep the bathroom door shut for several reasons... water is way too facinating to her... and, she has a thing for toothpaste... how much toothpaste can a child eat without getting sick? Right now, the precious one is up sitting beside me scratching my head... don't know why... but, it actually feels good, so I am just letting her go for it... I hope she doesn't tangle my hair too badly... she just bit it a moment ago... I have trouble figuring her out. She calls for me like I am on the other side of a ballpark. "Mom! Mama!" Talk about blasting me away! She gave me a "spanking" today... don't know what I did, but she seemed to think I needed a few swats... they weren't light taps either! She is stubborn, loud, and messy, but she is also wonderful, funny, and cute. I love my little baby who is turning 2 in just a few days. I hope Hope :-) knows how much I love her... her precious life has helped numb the pain and distract the overwhelmingness of Ron's cancer the past two years. Thank You, God, for little Hope Christiana. Please, help her to grow up to tell others that their is Hope in Christ!
Now, for those of you wondering about Ron's test results... it looks like we'll have to wait until next week. Sorry.
My heart is sad today for my friend, Gloria Jean McGinnis, at the loss of her son, Scottie. Gloria has been such an inspiration to me! In Heaven now, her son can see again! He is with his daddy, Coy, and with the One...Jesus... with whom he said he wanted to go all the way. His testimonies made such an impression on me as a teenager. We shall miss him.
Now, for a quick note about my other two children, whom I love very much, too! Charity had never seemed to be a child who gets up and runs to my room due to a nightmare, but last night, she must have had a really bad one... she was really upset, crying, maybe even screaming, and too afraid to sleep in her own bed. The little tyke is so skinny and small, it was no problem sleeping with her in our bed. Poor girl was still afraid of the dream coming back tonight. Faith is doing just fine... had a battle about supper tonight (she wasn't pleased about the presence of onions on her plate of fish and veggies), but we made it.
Well, it is late, so I had better go. Nite.
Now, for those of you wondering about Ron's test results... it looks like we'll have to wait until next week. Sorry.
My heart is sad today for my friend, Gloria Jean McGinnis, at the loss of her son, Scottie. Gloria has been such an inspiration to me! In Heaven now, her son can see again! He is with his daddy, Coy, and with the One...Jesus... with whom he said he wanted to go all the way. His testimonies made such an impression on me as a teenager. We shall miss him.
Now, for a quick note about my other two children, whom I love very much, too! Charity had never seemed to be a child who gets up and runs to my room due to a nightmare, but last night, she must have had a really bad one... she was really upset, crying, maybe even screaming, and too afraid to sleep in her own bed. The little tyke is so skinny and small, it was no problem sleeping with her in our bed. Poor girl was still afraid of the dream coming back tonight. Faith is doing just fine... had a battle about supper tonight (she wasn't pleased about the presence of onions on her plate of fish and veggies), but we made it.
Well, it is late, so I had better go. Nite.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Nervous
Here I am up after 12am hanging out on the computer, doing some reading and daydreaming. It is because of that coffee I drank! I had gone without coffee for like 8 days because I think I am allergic to it... so, I have that nice rash on my face again... looks like I have Rosacea, or something. Anyway, I feel like a cool wife the last couple of days... I have gotten enormous amounts of work done while Ron was away hunting. I did lots of shopping, cleaning, and even did some work that required a drill! Are you impressed? You ought to be... if you could have seen the struggle I had doing all of this with 3 little children, you would have said, "Bless her heart, she's trying to prove something... I sure hope she makes it!" Well, Ron was impressed (I think). That was one of my goals. I like to impress him. Guess it is like getting an A on an exam. My man comes home, looks around, eats, and goes to bed... home sweet home! No deer yet, but maybe there is still that chance.
Tomorrow is his day of testing at The James, and I am so nervous! It is worse than the possibility of failing a class. It is like... hey, if this didn't cure him?! Well, then, uh, I, I just don't know what?! I don't know when they will review the results with him, but I hope they don't make us wait long... it is tough especially when you have to wait over a weekend... we've done that plenty of times, but I still am not patient. It is in God's hands, and I know He will do what is right... not necessarily what we think is right. He sees the big picture. I trust Him. I am not really afraid. I am nervous. It is weird saying this, but as much as it will hurt if he is not cured, I think I am accepting it. You know those steps of grieving, well, I have wallowed in about each step... but, they are not nice and clean cut steps. You might think you have passed over a step, only to go back to it again. So, I think I am in the acceptance stage, but that doesn't mean I won't go back to previous stages at any given time. Emotions are like that. You can't expect to schedule them. I am a person who likes things laid out... scheduled... well, most of the time, so that I can be prepared, but, life isn't like that. It can annoy me, mess with me, hurt me, but we just can't boast of tomorrow.
Well, for your info... tomorrow Faith has a piano lesson, we have church with the Dickinson family coming to speak, and Ron will be gone most of the day for his testing. It is such a busy week. Next week, I have an appointment with that doc to discuss that nodule removal (mine), I am actually excited about that! Weird, I know. The next week, on Tuesday, December 15th, Faith has her very first piano recital... Yeah, Faithy. She is currently the youngest piano student her teacher has. She tries to mimic Kim Collingsworth, and that cracks up her teacher... and, Ron and me! This little fan has alot of work to do if she is going to reach her goal! She is too cute tipping that little head back and exaggerating her hand movements while she plays her little piece!
Tomorrow is his day of testing at The James, and I am so nervous! It is worse than the possibility of failing a class. It is like... hey, if this didn't cure him?! Well, then, uh, I, I just don't know what?! I don't know when they will review the results with him, but I hope they don't make us wait long... it is tough especially when you have to wait over a weekend... we've done that plenty of times, but I still am not patient. It is in God's hands, and I know He will do what is right... not necessarily what we think is right. He sees the big picture. I trust Him. I am not really afraid. I am nervous. It is weird saying this, but as much as it will hurt if he is not cured, I think I am accepting it. You know those steps of grieving, well, I have wallowed in about each step... but, they are not nice and clean cut steps. You might think you have passed over a step, only to go back to it again. So, I think I am in the acceptance stage, but that doesn't mean I won't go back to previous stages at any given time. Emotions are like that. You can't expect to schedule them. I am a person who likes things laid out... scheduled... well, most of the time, so that I can be prepared, but, life isn't like that. It can annoy me, mess with me, hurt me, but we just can't boast of tomorrow.
Well, for your info... tomorrow Faith has a piano lesson, we have church with the Dickinson family coming to speak, and Ron will be gone most of the day for his testing. It is such a busy week. Next week, I have an appointment with that doc to discuss that nodule removal (mine), I am actually excited about that! Weird, I know. The next week, on Tuesday, December 15th, Faith has her very first piano recital... Yeah, Faithy. She is currently the youngest piano student her teacher has. She tries to mimic Kim Collingsworth, and that cracks up her teacher... and, Ron and me! This little fan has alot of work to do if she is going to reach her goal! She is too cute tipping that little head back and exaggerating her hand movements while she plays her little piece!
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Prayer requests for this week
Thought I would share with you how you may pray for us this week.
1. Wednesday, Ron is scheduled for several tests... blood tests and scans... the special test I am excited, but a little nervous, about is the PET scan. This will tell us if there are any visible areas of malignancies. The next PET is supposed to be 6 months later. Pray the Lord's will be done.
2. I am going to try to schedule surgery to remove my thyroid nodule. Last week, I drew the line, and said NO MORE! Pray that the surgery can be schedule soon, and that the specialist I see will hook me up with an excellent surgeon. It shouldn't be a big deal, and may be like a one night stay in the hospital.
3.Ron is going to be hunting some this week... with friends. He will pace himself, but he is hoping to get at least one deer. I hope he gets a big buck! His friends will help him with the dragging, etc., of the deer. I am happy for him, that he is getting to get out and do something he enjoys and that he has someone with him. He is doing so well lately. The complications he has had seem to be all under control. Yeah! I know it sounds funny, but you could pray he shoots a deer and that God will keep him safe.
It is an exciting week for us, and I am looking forward to sharing with you all answers to your prayers :-)
Happy to say that I see a light at the end of the tunnel... still not sure where it is leading, but I am learning not to be afraid, but pray... slowly, but surely!
1. Wednesday, Ron is scheduled for several tests... blood tests and scans... the special test I am excited, but a little nervous, about is the PET scan. This will tell us if there are any visible areas of malignancies. The next PET is supposed to be 6 months later. Pray the Lord's will be done.
2. I am going to try to schedule surgery to remove my thyroid nodule. Last week, I drew the line, and said NO MORE! Pray that the surgery can be schedule soon, and that the specialist I see will hook me up with an excellent surgeon. It shouldn't be a big deal, and may be like a one night stay in the hospital.
3.Ron is going to be hunting some this week... with friends. He will pace himself, but he is hoping to get at least one deer. I hope he gets a big buck! His friends will help him with the dragging, etc., of the deer. I am happy for him, that he is getting to get out and do something he enjoys and that he has someone with him. He is doing so well lately. The complications he has had seem to be all under control. Yeah! I know it sounds funny, but you could pray he shoots a deer and that God will keep him safe.
It is an exciting week for us, and I am looking forward to sharing with you all answers to your prayers :-)
Happy to say that I see a light at the end of the tunnel... still not sure where it is leading, but I am learning not to be afraid, but pray... slowly, but surely!
Saturday, November 28, 2009
We Made It!
Here is a glimpse of the last couple of days. I started decorating for Christmas.
Thanksgiving at my grandparents... it was so much fun. We had lots of "survivors" there... we nearly lost several members of my family this year, and it was wonderful to be able to sit together and fellowship and count our blessings that we had each other this year at Thanksgiving. It was a beautiful family reunion.
My beautiful Grandma... I just love her to pieces... one of my daughters has as a middle name my Grandma's first name... Ruth. I also love the wonderful Ruth from the Bible, so there were two reasons I named her Charity Ruth.
My beautiful sister and my Aunt Kathy with me sandwiched in the middle. Aunt Kathy, I was sooo glad to see you and that you are doing so much better. My sister, Rachel, and I were like best friends growing up... we are crazy when we get together.Monday, November 23, 2009
Give praise
Thanksgiving is only a few days away, and I have so much for which to be thankful.
1. God, the Father, who created all things... and, He did it well! All you scientists and researchers of our universe and its inhabitants, say a hardy "Amen"! It is awesome! And, for His amazing love shown through His Son.
2. God, the Son, Jesus Christ, for sacrificing His life to redeem the human race. It is the most amazing love story I have ever heard! If you do not know the story of what He has done for you, you need to read about it and experience it... you will not be disappointed... for this love story has the most awesome ending... actually, it has no ending!
3. God, the Holy Spirit, for showing to me the darkness of my heart and helping me to "clean the closet." For leading, guiding, and comforting me.
4. For my husband, who loves his family and is very responsible... who loves God, is giving, and perserveres.
5. For my three children that God has given us to raise, train, protect, nourish, and love.
6. For light... in my soul... showing me what needs to be done, and what is right.
7. For a warm, dry home, safe and comfortable.
8. For the body God gave me to use for His glory... may that sink into my mind!
9. For God's Word... the ability to read it.
10. For a mind to think.
11. For my church and the freedom to choose it.
12. For friends and family who love, respect, and support us.
13. For forgiveness.
14. For being able to pray straight to the Lord whereever I am, whenever I want to, and that He hears me.
15. For good books.
16. For clothes and food.
17. That God does not lie, and that He is goodness and holiness.
18. That nothing is impossible with God.
19. That I can trust Him completely... He isn't going to mess up.
20. That my hubby's blood counts are looking really good, and that, although he has some hurdles yet to jump, things are looking up. I think I might see a little bit of light shining at the end of this tunnel... not sure where it is leading to... but, I know there is an end somewhere... we just got to keep PRESSING ON! But, not in our own strength, or we will fail before we get there... I realize that... it is a daily, moment by moment choice to hold Jesus' hand or try to wonder in the darkness by ourselves. As for me, I know I must have Jesus!
Give praise! Let all who has breath praise the Lord! Thank You, Jesus! Please, hold my hand, cause I really need You right now!
1. God, the Father, who created all things... and, He did it well! All you scientists and researchers of our universe and its inhabitants, say a hardy "Amen"! It is awesome! And, for His amazing love shown through His Son.
2. God, the Son, Jesus Christ, for sacrificing His life to redeem the human race. It is the most amazing love story I have ever heard! If you do not know the story of what He has done for you, you need to read about it and experience it... you will not be disappointed... for this love story has the most awesome ending... actually, it has no ending!
3. God, the Holy Spirit, for showing to me the darkness of my heart and helping me to "clean the closet." For leading, guiding, and comforting me.
4. For my husband, who loves his family and is very responsible... who loves God, is giving, and perserveres.
5. For my three children that God has given us to raise, train, protect, nourish, and love.
6. For light... in my soul... showing me what needs to be done, and what is right.
7. For a warm, dry home, safe and comfortable.
8. For the body God gave me to use for His glory... may that sink into my mind!
9. For God's Word... the ability to read it.
10. For a mind to think.
11. For my church and the freedom to choose it.
12. For friends and family who love, respect, and support us.
13. For forgiveness.
14. For being able to pray straight to the Lord whereever I am, whenever I want to, and that He hears me.
15. For good books.
16. For clothes and food.
17. That God does not lie, and that He is goodness and holiness.
18. That nothing is impossible with God.
19. That I can trust Him completely... He isn't going to mess up.
20. That my hubby's blood counts are looking really good, and that, although he has some hurdles yet to jump, things are looking up. I think I might see a little bit of light shining at the end of this tunnel... not sure where it is leading to... but, I know there is an end somewhere... we just got to keep PRESSING ON! But, not in our own strength, or we will fail before we get there... I realize that... it is a daily, moment by moment choice to hold Jesus' hand or try to wonder in the darkness by ourselves. As for me, I know I must have Jesus!
Give praise! Let all who has breath praise the Lord! Thank You, Jesus! Please, hold my hand, cause I really need You right now!
Saturday, November 21, 2009
God is on the move...
in my heart. Oh, I am not saying that things were great today... but, I am submitting more. Submitting more to God, my husband, and listening and reading and learning more... because I am so ready to be done with fighting with God. He has me! I don't know what the future holds in our family, and I am tired of trying to be "God" and figure it all out. There is so much more peace when God is allowed to be God. Ron is His. If He wants to take him, then that is what is good... because God is good, and does not make mistakes. If God chooses to heal Ron, then that is good... and, I know He can, but I also know that God's ways are not our ways, and He sees the finished puzzle when we only see odds and end pieces. God allowed me to marry this fantastic man, though I don't know why... I haven't exactly been the best wife, but I am honored. He has been so very brave, and has done so very well through all of this. He just keeps marching on, sharing God's love and doing what work he is able to do. In fact, he is hoping to get back to work by the end of January, and knowing Ron, he just might do it... I might be surprised if he doesn't do it. He really is doing well, even with the numerous problems that arise... it is like he is just jumping hurdles, one comes, he jumps... another comes, and he jumps again, and he even laughs along the way. I am proud of him. Keep jumping, Ron! You're doing a good job! I love you!
Surrendering
I am changing my blog tone a bit, so I have erased some info that I had put on here. It is part of my surrender to Jesus right now. I have been ignoring Him, I guess you could say. I repented the other night here at my house. My attitudes, thoughts, and desires were not Christ-like and it had much to do with my lack in prayer and consistancy with studying the Scriptures. God is meeting my need as I surrender my desires and hopes to Him. It sure feels better than trying to figure it out myself. Praise God!
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Today...
Ron's doc added some heart med to his list of meds today. His counts are going up... hurrah!!! Platelets have really climbed! Very happy about that.
The girls and I had fun today at the park here... it was so refreshing to watch them playing outside and hearing the birds, etc.
The girls and I had fun today at the park here... it was so refreshing to watch them playing outside and hearing the birds, etc.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Heart problems?
Ron was discharged today, but he still needs tests and stuff. A doctor came and saw him today, and said he believes Ron has PSVT... paroxymal supraventricular tachycardia.
Pressing on!
Pressing on!
Saturday, November 14, 2009
911
I don't much feel like explaining all that has happened in the last 24 hours, but it was frightening. To make a long story short, Ron over-exerted himself scrubbing down and power-spraying our mobile home today (or should I say yesterday, since it is past mid-night), and quickly, it seems, something came over him, and his heart went racing. He came in the house, poured cold water over his head, had me get him water to drink, tried sitting down, laying down, whatever he could, and didn't want me to leave him... felt his heart racing and his chest was tight. Anyway, an ambulance was called and when they checked his heart rate, I believe it was over 230, and they couldn't even get a blood pressure!!! Off they went to a hospital I didn't even know how to get to, but it was the closest. They had to give him some medicine to slow it down at the hospital and it worked the first time. I think it was around 215 at the hospital. They got it calmed down, but later took him to The James Cancer Hospital, where he is right now... room 361. They've done some testing, and I guess some enzyme is up a bit, and they are going to test his heart some more tomorrow... if nothing too serious shows up, he might get to go home tomorrow.
Get this, the ambulance or whatever it was that transported him from Dayton to Columbus hit a deer on the way there, then the battery died on the machines that were monitoring him, and they had to have another vehicle meet them with a new battery, then I think they got a little turned around by the hospital or something. Ron thought is was hilarious! He joked about them giving him the deer meat, and he would buy them a burger... ha! Obviously, they couldn't do that... but, at least he could have a sense of humor.
That is the new news here.
Pressing on...
Get this, the ambulance or whatever it was that transported him from Dayton to Columbus hit a deer on the way there, then the battery died on the machines that were monitoring him, and they had to have another vehicle meet them with a new battery, then I think they got a little turned around by the hospital or something. Ron thought is was hilarious! He joked about them giving him the deer meat, and he would buy them a burger... ha! Obviously, they couldn't do that... but, at least he could have a sense of humor.
That is the new news here.
Pressing on...
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
It is normal
That is what Ron told me the doctor said today. He said he was only grade 1 in his Graft-versus-Host, and that the steriods ought to help that. Ron acted like it was no big deal to the doc right now.
The kids are fine. Faith is doing school late this evening. Charity got clobbered by a heavy praying hands decoration last night while playing "tent" in the living room (sounds funny, but you know how even tiny head injuries bleed). Hope got a mega-scratch on her back yesterday, but she is amazingly resilent. Then today she was sitting strapped in her booster-seat and pushed it backward by pushing the table with her feet and over went the chair, baby, and all. I sat her up chair and all, and she got over it quickly, but she could have really gotten hurt. I forsaw that coming because she has been tipping her chair lately... and, even though Mommy's warnings didn't seem to help, maybe the memory of that moment may help keep her from doing that... we'll see.
You would not believe how many words Hope has learned in the past few weeks... it is shocking! I am excited! Then, Charity is just getting to be so fun to have around... she is just so cute, except for that whiny scream she gets... especially when she is very tired. Faith is maturing so much, you can definitely tell she is past the pre-school mind, and can figure things out quite well. She loves to tell stories, make up songs, ask tough questions, be the boss, and we are having a new level of "issues," too (seems to be issues of the heart that need dealt with). She is sensitive, as well as one who has a strong personality... she likes to be the leader of a group. She once was bossing a group of kids at a playland and then told them her mommy would buy them prizes... WHAT!? Like I can buy a huge group of kids treats! She is a character! She was setting me up!
Well, that is all for now... our "normal" little life here... keeping busy, and trying to have fun along the way... and, apologizing when needed.
Pressing on.
The kids are fine. Faith is doing school late this evening. Charity got clobbered by a heavy praying hands decoration last night while playing "tent" in the living room (sounds funny, but you know how even tiny head injuries bleed). Hope got a mega-scratch on her back yesterday, but she is amazingly resilent. Then today she was sitting strapped in her booster-seat and pushed it backward by pushing the table with her feet and over went the chair, baby, and all. I sat her up chair and all, and she got over it quickly, but she could have really gotten hurt. I forsaw that coming because she has been tipping her chair lately... and, even though Mommy's warnings didn't seem to help, maybe the memory of that moment may help keep her from doing that... we'll see.
You would not believe how many words Hope has learned in the past few weeks... it is shocking! I am excited! Then, Charity is just getting to be so fun to have around... she is just so cute, except for that whiny scream she gets... especially when she is very tired. Faith is maturing so much, you can definitely tell she is past the pre-school mind, and can figure things out quite well. She loves to tell stories, make up songs, ask tough questions, be the boss, and we are having a new level of "issues," too (seems to be issues of the heart that need dealt with). She is sensitive, as well as one who has a strong personality... she likes to be the leader of a group. She once was bossing a group of kids at a playland and then told them her mommy would buy them prizes... WHAT!? Like I can buy a huge group of kids treats! She is a character! She was setting me up!
Well, that is all for now... our "normal" little life here... keeping busy, and trying to have fun along the way... and, apologizing when needed.
Pressing on.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Ron update
Well, after today's appointment, Ron came home with two more meds, one being the standard treatment of GVHD... prednisone.Where do you think Ron is right now? Hunting! Well, really, he is sitting in someone's little hunting building where he can turn on heat, and is near their home.
He called some of his bus route on the phone the other day to check on them, and let them know he still cared about them, even if he wasn't the one picking them up right now. He found a teenager that moved and picked him up Sunday night... that teen is a great kid to keep and so sweet, and he lives on the way to our church! We still have one girl teen we continue to pick up some, because she only lives 5 minutes from us, but small children are too risky for us to pick up because they are the "germy" ones... bless their hearts, it is a fact, I guess, since Ron has to avoid them... except ours, who are homeschooled and sheltered here in our home. Ron misses those precious little children he used to pick up. They were special to him... to all of us. Faith looks at some of them as her dear friends... I have to watch her though, she wants to share stuff with them, even their lipstick stuff... now that is a fast way to share germs both ways!
The other day, he and some guys went and washed and later waxed the church bus. Looks beautiful! A few days before that, he cleaned out our shed.
He is doing the things that are on his priority list. I am proud of him for his efforts and hard work even though his strength is small, and the future uncertain. He is a dedicated man and wonderful husband.
I am clueless about many diseases and treatments, but I have been learning much, because I like to study them on my own. These things mean much more to me now than when I was a very young gal in nursing school, studying it, thinking it was a cool thing to be a "nurse." Patients were an assignment to me, a job, something to talk about. I was sooo immature and petty. Those poor people needed deserved much better than my half-hearted efforts and my sleeping in class and clinicals. If I were to become a nurse now, well, I would show them respect and I would truly understand so much more how they must feel... they and their families. Life is not a joke... something to take lightly... Jesus proved that one day when He gave His all for us. He didn't look at us half-heartedly, like an assignment, a job to hurry up and get over with... and, I am forever grateful. I had that sin disease, and Jesus, the Great Physician, had the cure, but He gave everything He had to get it for me. Thank You, Jesus... for everything... help me not to forget or ignore what You have and are teaching me.
He called some of his bus route on the phone the other day to check on them, and let them know he still cared about them, even if he wasn't the one picking them up right now. He found a teenager that moved and picked him up Sunday night... that teen is a great kid to keep and so sweet, and he lives on the way to our church! We still have one girl teen we continue to pick up some, because she only lives 5 minutes from us, but small children are too risky for us to pick up because they are the "germy" ones... bless their hearts, it is a fact, I guess, since Ron has to avoid them... except ours, who are homeschooled and sheltered here in our home. Ron misses those precious little children he used to pick up. They were special to him... to all of us. Faith looks at some of them as her dear friends... I have to watch her though, she wants to share stuff with them, even their lipstick stuff... now that is a fast way to share germs both ways!
The other day, he and some guys went and washed and later waxed the church bus. Looks beautiful! A few days before that, he cleaned out our shed.
He is doing the things that are on his priority list. I am proud of him for his efforts and hard work even though his strength is small, and the future uncertain. He is a dedicated man and wonderful husband.
I am clueless about many diseases and treatments, but I have been learning much, because I like to study them on my own. These things mean much more to me now than when I was a very young gal in nursing school, studying it, thinking it was a cool thing to be a "nurse." Patients were an assignment to me, a job, something to talk about. I was sooo immature and petty. Those poor people needed deserved much better than my half-hearted efforts and my sleeping in class and clinicals. If I were to become a nurse now, well, I would show them respect and I would truly understand so much more how they must feel... they and their families. Life is not a joke... something to take lightly... Jesus proved that one day when He gave His all for us. He didn't look at us half-heartedly, like an assignment, a job to hurry up and get over with... and, I am forever grateful. I had that sin disease, and Jesus, the Great Physician, had the cure, but He gave everything He had to get it for me. Thank You, Jesus... for everything... help me not to forget or ignore what You have and are teaching me.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
No cell phones right now
If you want to reach us you will need to call our home number right now. We are not using our cell phones right now. If you want our number, email me. Thanks.
Friday, November 6, 2009
correction
Actually, it was the bloodwork that showed it was grafted in, the results of the bone marrow biopsy will not be back for probably a couple of days... but, it should confirm the findings in the bloodwork that the graft took 100%.
100% Grafted!!! WELCOME TO THE NEW MARROW!
GOOD NEWS FROM THE COOK HOUSE! THE DOUBLE UMBILICAL CORD CLINICAL TRIAL IS WORKING SO FAR! They did the bone marrow biopsy today, and Ron called to tell me that they said one of the umbilical cords is grafted in 100%!!! YES!!! Only one can completely graft, not both. It was enough cells! How cool is that! Thank you to the mother who gave her baby's umbilical cord instead of throwing it away! He had no adult matches, and your donation gave new hope in Ron's fight for a cure. Not sure what could have been done if it hadn't grafted in... not sure I want to think about it.
They are still waiting for the results of the skin biopsy to see if his new cells are trying to fight against Ron's body in GVHD. They are hoping to keep it under control. So far, he is doing pretty good, most obvious problem is that rash. Sometimes GVHD can do good things, you know, as it goes against other cells, it can attack any remaining cancer cells, too. So, you see, it is not all bad. Keep praying for us... the good news today gave a boost of hope here!
They are still waiting for the results of the skin biopsy to see if his new cells are trying to fight against Ron's body in GVHD. They are hoping to keep it under control. So far, he is doing pretty good, most obvious problem is that rash. Sometimes GVHD can do good things, you know, as it goes against other cells, it can attack any remaining cancer cells, too. So, you see, it is not all bad. Keep praying for us... the good news today gave a boost of hope here!
Thursday, November 5, 2009
What?! Chicken in crackers?!
We made a mistake. We bought these yummy ranch snack crackers and were enjoying them when Ron suddenly had a question... Is there chicken in this? Sure enough, those flavored crackers had chicken in them! Ron could feel the allergy starting. In went the anti-histamines and lots of fluids and food to try to dilute the chicken. He is now asleep. Why weren't the crackers called Ranch Chicken Crackers or something?! How would you have even known, unless you are into reading all labels of every food?
The man with the mask
Where is my rope to tie him down? He is out driving around, running errands, and doing his busy work. He got permission to drive, and he glad. So, if you see a man with a toboggan (sp?)hat and a duck billed mask at a gas station or something, that just might be my man.
Sometimes I wonder what people are thinking when they see him walking around our mobile home park or when he went to vote the other day with hardly anything on his face showing except his eyes. Who is this energetic guy with the mask? That is my husband who is itching to get busy.
Sometimes I wonder what people are thinking when they see him walking around our mobile home park or when he went to vote the other day with hardly anything on his face showing except his eyes. Who is this energetic guy with the mask? That is my husband who is itching to get busy.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Biopsy
They took a biopsy of Ron's skin to check for GVHD, as they do believe that is what it is. They raised one his immune suppressants again (they had lowered it... I call it the "skunk pill" as that it about what it smells like) and he has to put on a steriod cream. Hopefully, that will take care of the problem. We should know the results of the biopsy in a few days. He has a bone marrow biopsy on Friday scheduled... yuck! The bone marrow biopsy will tell if the graft took into the bone marrow as it should have.
Guess I want to have empathy, too, since I also have a rash... not sure what that is about... my guess is caffeine or allergy or Rosasea. Oh, well, that is nothing compared to Ron's situation. I just miss my clear complexion... I was spoiled with nice skin on my face until recently... now I am red and blotchy and have weird hot flashes... but, there sure are more important things in life than perfect skin... like my precious husband's life.
Please, keep praying for him. GVHD can be life-threatening, and I don't really know how to deal with this, but watch and pray and try to think right. We didn't go to church tonight for safety reasons, because of Ron's immune system and all the ill people in our congregation.
Excuse the laundry in the above pic... it is an endless job, ya know. :-)
He is going to the hospital
He should be there by now. His dad has been his transportation to and from the hospital. They wanted him to come in this morning to be checked for Graft-Verus-Host. The rash is worse this morning, so he has to be checked. If it is, they will likely add steriods to his medication list. I am pretty certain it is GVHD, but I am not a doctor, of course.
Will plan to let you know after I find out what the docs say.
Ron's wife and home nurse,
Sarah
Will plan to let you know after I find out what the docs say.
Ron's wife and home nurse,
Sarah
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
A Ron Update
Well, last week, he had 2 transfusions... one platelet and one red blood cells, and they gave him some Neupogen once for low white blood cells. A few days ago, he developed that platelet rash, petechiae, apparently... it was on his feet mostly. They didn't seem too concerned about it... guess it must be a common thing. Tonight he just developed a rash across his face, on his upper chest, and I think it on the top on his head, too... not sure if it is from this perfumy soap he grabbed off the sink to wash his face earlier or what. He thought it could have been from the fluids they gave him earlier today because of his increased creatin levels... but, after he called the nurse, we know it is not likely that... he took a Benadryl, and I will check him in the night for any spreading of the rash... the worst thing it might be is probably the dreaded Graft-Versus-Host disease (rash is one of the symptoms). I am paranoid about it, I guess. Acute GVHD can come on quickly and can range from a mild to a severe reaction. It may be different than some other transplants that have rejections in that it is the donor's cells rejecting YOU not necessarily yours rejecting the donors... so the symptoms may be different in that way. Let's hope my imagination is just getting the best of me, and that this is nothing serious. Ron is sensitive to alot of things, after all.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Cool, modern, and educated children
The computer activity Charity is enjoying was a gift from Mimi for Faith's birthday. It is really pretty cool... I have even used it for Children's Church purposes.Faith is, of course, doing her schoolwork in the above pic.
Hope was just very silly today.
Shhhh....
Can you keep a secret? I found one of my very desired Christmas presents for Faith today. I mean, what do you buy for children who have enough clothes to supply a female orphanage, and enough toys for a daycare? And, how do you buy gifts when neither you or your husband is working? Well, there is a way! You pray! I found a VERY NICE bicycle at a thrift store and it was 25% off day! So, for only about 17 dollars, my daughter now has an almost new looking bike with nice tires awaiting her in the shed... it is quite sharp! Another gift was purchased on-line for about 8 dollars for all of the children to share... it is a Your Story Hour album (history). The girls are going to LOVE IT! They love Your Story Hour... ten hours worth of stories! It was a very good sale! They are cassettes, so we'll have to watch out having them near Hope... she likes to pull them apart... the other kids did, too, at this age. Now, I will just have to find something special for the other two. They don't need much, and I don't have room for much, but I think I have some ideas of what would bless their little hearts! It is fun making those little girls happy.
Friday, October 30, 2009
I think I just need to go to bed earlier.
Well, that last post was quite a downer... I still don't feel great, but I think I have an idea what is wrong with me... I need to go to sleep before 1am or later, no caffeine after 5pm, get fresh air and exercise some... but, definitely sleep is good. I have got to get a good night's sleep!
It was such an encouragement when I went to my mailbox and found two sweet cards in there... the kind words and humor contained within them was worth more than the $1000 that Ron was joking about being in the mailbox. One card was from Ron's work place with many signatures and comments. Another was from someone who had met my children while Ron was in the hospital, and it was so sweet.
I hope Youth Challenge is going great... this is the third year we have not been able to go. I think there was a good sized group going from our church this year... I am glad.
I won't be able to teach Children's Church for a while to avoid germs... sounds silly unless you are living with a person who has a severally compromised immune system. I am not normally a germ freak, but this is an exceptional situation.
By the way, medical friends... is it metaport or mediport? I never said I was a fantastic speller. Well, I think I might steal a little nap here while two of my children are sleeping. Sweet dreams.
It was such an encouragement when I went to my mailbox and found two sweet cards in there... the kind words and humor contained within them was worth more than the $1000 that Ron was joking about being in the mailbox. One card was from Ron's work place with many signatures and comments. Another was from someone who had met my children while Ron was in the hospital, and it was so sweet.
I hope Youth Challenge is going great... this is the third year we have not been able to go. I think there was a good sized group going from our church this year... I am glad.
I won't be able to teach Children's Church for a while to avoid germs... sounds silly unless you are living with a person who has a severally compromised immune system. I am not normally a germ freak, but this is an exceptional situation.
By the way, medical friends... is it metaport or mediport? I never said I was a fantastic speller. Well, I think I might steal a little nap here while two of my children are sleeping. Sweet dreams.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
recovery
Well, it would be a lie to say that the last few days have been wonderful. It has been emotionally stressful here. I am trying so hard, but sometimes I feel like a failure to keep up and be nice at the same time. I wish I could say that our home has been inspirational, but it hasn't. Yes, I have worked hard on keeping the house kept up, the laundry clean and the dishes done, the doornobs and other often-handled areas disinfected, make meals, ask Ron if he is taking his meds, check his skin for signs of bleeding, and lecturing him on "don't do that... I will take care of that... don't touch that, it is germy... bla...bla...bla", and getting on my own nerves.
Our "new to us" vehicle kicked the bucket while we were at the bank the other day... someone has to be with Ron at all times, and he wants to ride along on errands anyway...but, he doesn't always where his mask like he should... but, I am tired of trying to act like a "mama" to him. We had to have the vehicle towed and someone at our church took our family home in their truck. How humbling is that!
Then, what would you know, but that the old "Betsy" van came up with a problem when we were going to get groceries from Aldi's today. Ron found the problem and repaired the vehicle himself as sick as his body is, and he is doing mechanical work!!! He said it actually gave him energy and a sense of getting a job done. Well, fortunately, that one was a non-expensive repair... a belt that was so worn that it had chunks missing out of it! Thank You, Jesus, for protecting us as it could have broken at any time. We were late to church... which we sit in the balcony anyway, because Ron cannot be around crowds, so we didn't barge into the sanctuary late, just went upstairs to the Cook family "isolation" seating. We are trying to keep our children from sicknesses as well, for obvious reasons. So, I hope noone is offended if we do not shake hands much... it is a life/death type of thing for us right now, as Ron's WBC is at a really low point... they stopped the Nupogen when he left the hospital, so down went the white blood cells. Then, his platelets were down to a dangerous 9 yesterday, so he got a platelet transfusion. His gums bled the other day from simply eating pretzels... gotta watch those crunchy foods from now on. His hemoglobin is almost to the point of a required transfusion of red blood cells. He is on so many meds and I just hope he can keep up with it all.
On top of homeschooling, caring for Ron, and the regular daily tasks of being a wife and mommy, Hope has decided to demand to be potty-trained NOW! She cries and begs and whines to use the "po-ee" (potty, without the t's). She has wet in the potty several times already. Whenever the other girls mention needing to go to the potty, she wails to go, too. Nice timing, my precious little one! She has suddenly started talking, too! In fact, it is hard to get her to stop! She knows several words now, and likes to say them over and over, and loudly... even in church! I was excited when she started talking a couple of weeks ago, but now, I find myself trying to hush her.
Faith is asking so many questions still, and has matured so much mentally, it is just amazing... and so has Charity. I think Faith has a tooth that has some give to it and I wouldn't be too surprised if she doesn't loose her first tooth in the next couple of months. How time flies!
If I seem a little stressed, it is because I am a little stressed... please, bear with me. I am also upset with myself for gaining back weight. It is such a struggle right now to even have a desire to try to loose weight. Sigh.
Well, I really ought to post pictures soon. Ron looks different without his hair again... Charity likes to point out that he has no hair now. He is still loosing stubs of hair all over the pillows cases... which I am trying to wash often.
His central line is doing well so far... no infections there... it is one of those things that make me cringe to think about the possibity that it could get yanked out by accident... have heard of that happening to people and it makes me want to shiver! He still has that metaport that he has had for maybe almost two years, I think, but it doesn't draw back... that fact disturbs the James staff. A metaport is under the skin and it accessed by a needle... looks like a circular lump on the chest... no dangly lines. But, a central line has a big line hanging out... just part of the furniture when one goes through what Ron has. He's had this before, but I think the last time it might have had only two thingys at the end, but this time it has three ("thingys" should really be added to the medical terminology, don't you think?).
Well, that is an aweful lot of personal info on here, which I hope does not embarrass Ron, but it might give you an idea of what life is post-transplant of the allogenous (sp?) stem-cell.... umbilical cord, that is.
Signing off...
Trying to press on...
Our "new to us" vehicle kicked the bucket while we were at the bank the other day... someone has to be with Ron at all times, and he wants to ride along on errands anyway...but, he doesn't always where his mask like he should... but, I am tired of trying to act like a "mama" to him. We had to have the vehicle towed and someone at our church took our family home in their truck. How humbling is that!
Then, what would you know, but that the old "Betsy" van came up with a problem when we were going to get groceries from Aldi's today. Ron found the problem and repaired the vehicle himself as sick as his body is, and he is doing mechanical work!!! He said it actually gave him energy and a sense of getting a job done. Well, fortunately, that one was a non-expensive repair... a belt that was so worn that it had chunks missing out of it! Thank You, Jesus, for protecting us as it could have broken at any time. We were late to church... which we sit in the balcony anyway, because Ron cannot be around crowds, so we didn't barge into the sanctuary late, just went upstairs to the Cook family "isolation" seating. We are trying to keep our children from sicknesses as well, for obvious reasons. So, I hope noone is offended if we do not shake hands much... it is a life/death type of thing for us right now, as Ron's WBC is at a really low point... they stopped the Nupogen when he left the hospital, so down went the white blood cells. Then, his platelets were down to a dangerous 9 yesterday, so he got a platelet transfusion. His gums bled the other day from simply eating pretzels... gotta watch those crunchy foods from now on. His hemoglobin is almost to the point of a required transfusion of red blood cells. He is on so many meds and I just hope he can keep up with it all.
On top of homeschooling, caring for Ron, and the regular daily tasks of being a wife and mommy, Hope has decided to demand to be potty-trained NOW! She cries and begs and whines to use the "po-ee" (potty, without the t's). She has wet in the potty several times already. Whenever the other girls mention needing to go to the potty, she wails to go, too. Nice timing, my precious little one! She has suddenly started talking, too! In fact, it is hard to get her to stop! She knows several words now, and likes to say them over and over, and loudly... even in church! I was excited when she started talking a couple of weeks ago, but now, I find myself trying to hush her.
Faith is asking so many questions still, and has matured so much mentally, it is just amazing... and so has Charity. I think Faith has a tooth that has some give to it and I wouldn't be too surprised if she doesn't loose her first tooth in the next couple of months. How time flies!
If I seem a little stressed, it is because I am a little stressed... please, bear with me. I am also upset with myself for gaining back weight. It is such a struggle right now to even have a desire to try to loose weight. Sigh.
Well, I really ought to post pictures soon. Ron looks different without his hair again... Charity likes to point out that he has no hair now. He is still loosing stubs of hair all over the pillows cases... which I am trying to wash often.
His central line is doing well so far... no infections there... it is one of those things that make me cringe to think about the possibity that it could get yanked out by accident... have heard of that happening to people and it makes me want to shiver! He still has that metaport that he has had for maybe almost two years, I think, but it doesn't draw back... that fact disturbs the James staff. A metaport is under the skin and it accessed by a needle... looks like a circular lump on the chest... no dangly lines. But, a central line has a big line hanging out... just part of the furniture when one goes through what Ron has. He's had this before, but I think the last time it might have had only two thingys at the end, but this time it has three ("thingys" should really be added to the medical terminology, don't you think?).
Well, that is an aweful lot of personal info on here, which I hope does not embarrass Ron, but it might give you an idea of what life is post-transplant of the allogenous (sp?) stem-cell.... umbilical cord, that is.
Signing off...
Trying to press on...
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Happy Birthday, Ronald Steven Ray Cook!
He's still in the hospital because his counts have been dropping, but the doctors are talking today like he just might get out early next week IF his counts stay where they are right now or go the right direction, but if they continue to drop, well, I might have to keep holding the fort back home. He is doing so well right now, and the doc even told us today that our children may come to visit outside of the buildings! Not sure if we will take him up on it, but it sure was nice to hear!
My man is 34 years old today. I am here at the hospital with him right now, but it has been since last Friday since I had seen him. I brought his presents today, and yesterday, his mom brought a cake.
I have been been at home with doing some school with Faith, rearranging a few rooms, cleaning, and playing games with the girls... and, of course, talking on the phone to several friends and family members. Faithy was concerned that daddy might not recognize his home when he got back because I changed it so much. It is amazing the things I found under the furniture when I moved them! Today, I washed lots of laundry... sure smells good!
I am so excited about getting Ron home early next week if his counts are good... he is so bored sometimes here, but he has been listening to holinessmusic.com and it has really cheered him! Sometimes I think he listens to it from morning till night just about. What a nice resource for him to plug into!
I forgot to tell y'all that the other day I got a surprise when in walked my good friend from somewhere south of here :-) into our church and got right on the piano like she had never gone anywhere. It was so nice to see you, Martha C! It was so special to get to visit with ya!
Right now, my children are being babysat at our house this evening by their dear piano teacher, Darla Stroup. What a special treat this is... I was starting to cry because I really wanted to see Ron on his birthday, but some of favorite babysitters were already scheduled for something today, and the possibilities seemed to be dwindling, when Darla gladly offered! It was really a sacrifice, because she lives quite a ways away from my house... but, we feel very comfortable with her being with the children... and, are so thankful. Thanks, Darla!
I am really struggling driving lately, I get soooo tired, that it is a real battle. I am developing a real sympathy for single mommies... it is so hard to keep up! I am in need of good solid night's sleep... but, I just have too much work to do! So, I often stay up really late working just to keep my head above it all and to get the house ready for Ron's return... sigh... I am so tired even right now... I am nervous about even driving home.
Pray for me, will ya?!
Until next time, we press on!
My man is 34 years old today. I am here at the hospital with him right now, but it has been since last Friday since I had seen him. I brought his presents today, and yesterday, his mom brought a cake.
I have been been at home with doing some school with Faith, rearranging a few rooms, cleaning, and playing games with the girls... and, of course, talking on the phone to several friends and family members. Faithy was concerned that daddy might not recognize his home when he got back because I changed it so much. It is amazing the things I found under the furniture when I moved them! Today, I washed lots of laundry... sure smells good!
I am so excited about getting Ron home early next week if his counts are good... he is so bored sometimes here, but he has been listening to holinessmusic.com and it has really cheered him! Sometimes I think he listens to it from morning till night just about. What a nice resource for him to plug into!
I forgot to tell y'all that the other day I got a surprise when in walked my good friend from somewhere south of here :-) into our church and got right on the piano like she had never gone anywhere. It was so nice to see you, Martha C! It was so special to get to visit with ya!
Right now, my children are being babysat at our house this evening by their dear piano teacher, Darla Stroup. What a special treat this is... I was starting to cry because I really wanted to see Ron on his birthday, but some of favorite babysitters were already scheduled for something today, and the possibilities seemed to be dwindling, when Darla gladly offered! It was really a sacrifice, because she lives quite a ways away from my house... but, we feel very comfortable with her being with the children... and, are so thankful. Thanks, Darla!
I am really struggling driving lately, I get soooo tired, that it is a real battle. I am developing a real sympathy for single mommies... it is so hard to keep up! I am in need of good solid night's sleep... but, I just have too much work to do! So, I often stay up really late working just to keep my head above it all and to get the house ready for Ron's return... sigh... I am so tired even right now... I am nervous about even driving home.
Pray for me, will ya?!
Until next time, we press on!
Friday, October 16, 2009
Maybe, next week
Some are saying that he might get out next week. Sounds good to me. His counts are almost the same today as it was yesterday. Was hoping to get out Monday, but it will likely be after that.
We were told today that the last time he had a stem-cell transplant, the sickness and stuff because it was such a major blast, was here in the hospital... this time, the watch will be more after he goes home... watching for symptoms of graft versus host. He has done fantastic here... getting skinny, but he is doing fine... okay, he isn't really skinny... he is a big guy still, just thinner. I think he's cute... of course, huh?
We were told today that the last time he had a stem-cell transplant, the sickness and stuff because it was such a major blast, was here in the hospital... this time, the watch will be more after he goes home... watching for symptoms of graft versus host. He has done fantastic here... getting skinny, but he is doing fine... okay, he isn't really skinny... he is a big guy still, just thinner. I think he's cute... of course, huh?
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Hospital Restrictions
If you are not immediate family, you are not really allowed to visit anymore... in any part of the hospitals here... our children are no longer allowed to visit any part of the hospital. You know, the flu scare... bla.
Ron is doing very well so far. Been eating some and exercising some. Doing fine.
Will be nice when he gets to come home! Hoping for an early discharge... some say that could actually happen since he is doing so very well. He has even been told he's the most low maintanance person up here. Praise God!
Ron is doing very well so far. Been eating some and exercising some. Doing fine.
Will be nice when he gets to come home! Hoping for an early discharge... some say that could actually happen since he is doing so very well. He has even been told he's the most low maintanance person up here. Praise God!
Saturday, October 10, 2009
still not to the bottom
His WBC count is at 0.7 this morning, so it still has not hit the rock bottom... it is supposed to go down to like 0.1, so the toughest part is still coming. He still doesn't need any platelet or RBC transfusions... they are low, but not to where they are ready to give him blood products.
He is still eating tomato soup, at least, and crackers, and he is drinking water and orange Gatorade, and a little bit of fruit. Not much else seems to sound good to him. At least he is eating, and so far no mouth sores or fevers or vomiting! Very good start, I should say!
I had a rough sleep here last night, because someone coded on this floor in the other pod or whatever you call it. I checked on Ron and he was sleeping like a brick. I called his name and got up to touch him to be sure he was okay (like a mommy does to a new-born baby), and the guy just kept sleeping. I think it was the Fenagren (sp?). When there is a code blue, I think the whole hospital is put on alert... it is loudly announced over the intercom... even if it was in the Ross Heart Hospital, which there was one there last night too, right after the one on the 3rd floor of the James Cancer Hospital... it was making me a nervous wreck, but they have to do that so wherever the needed staff might be, they will know they need to get going.
Unless something comes up, I might not get to spend another night with Ron until Thursday next week, but I do plan to make frequent trips up here for visits. I plan to bring the girls once or twice up here next week to see their daddy, they didn't get to see him at all this week.
The children are doing well, and you would not believe the questions Faith is asking me. One example is: "Mommy, does God love sinners that are in Hell?" Other questions have been equally if not more complicated than that! Her wheels are really turning these days! Sometimes I just tell her we'll have to ask Daddy, because I don't know some of the answers to her questions. She has become quite huggy, too. She is will just come up to me and squeeze me tight, and say omething like, "I just love you soooooo much. I love daddy, too. And, I love Jesus." Awww! I love her, too!
Charity is still stuck to her gum addiction... I need to break that before she gets a cavity. She is professional at whining, and I cannot stand whining! She is learning alot lately, and she is very good at memorizing. She is a character and can crack me up sometimes! I bought the girl a "Barrel of Monkeys" the other day, and they had fun learning to play that game... they cheat some though... their coordination isn't quite good enough, it seems to play it without using both hands to connect those monkeys... we'll get it.
Hope is funny. We were watching a video together about a little kitten and a puppy, and the kitten was playing with a crab and the crab grabbed the kitten's nose, and Hope was horrified. She was like "nooo!" and started crying a fearful cry. You have to understand that Hope doesn't talk a whole lot yet, and so sometimes I don't realize how much she understands about her surroundings, so I was taken by surprise when she understood that the kitten was getting hurt. She is starting to talk more now, though. When she potties in her diaper, and I change it, you might hear her say, "Ewww, guck!" or when I am done, she kindly says "kank oo" (thank you). Dog is "gog" and I think she calls both Faithy and Charity "tee-tee" unless you purposely ask her to say "Faith", then she might say some like "fate." Maybe it has something to do with her being the youngest child that I haven't spent more time teaching her how to talk... I know, that is a bad mommy, I really ought to start reading to her picture books, after all, in a couple of months, she will be two, and I would like her to get caught up a little. When Ron gets out of the hospital, I would like to get her started with potty training. Believe it or not, Faith takes off Hope's diaper sometimes and sits her on the toilet... I think I like that! If my 5 year old wants to help potty-train the baby, more power to her! I could use the extra hands... she is actually able to help me out in alot of ways! She helps with housecleaning, changing wet diapers, and making sure the bathroom door stays shut (so baby doesn't play in commode). She is also very good at making messes, too.
I made them homemade play-dough the other day, and they really liked that, but Hope threw a bunch on the floor... which wouldn't be such a big deal, except my kitchen floor is carpeted... maybe someday I will change that... it is pretty new carpet, but, with small children, it is not the most convenient thing. I would like to get into playing more games with them on a regular basis, which gives me an idea for Christmas presents. They are getting to the age (well, at least the two older ones) that I think they would really enjoy that fun, bonding time.
I have been taking turns some nights with sleeping with the girls... they really like it when it is their turn to sleep in Mommy's bed... although Hope is so wiggly and squirmy that the last time I allowed her to sleep with me, I could hardly sleep... the other two usually do very well. We'll have to stop this ritual probably once Ron gets home, but I figured it might be helpful to the children at this time when their little worlds are different, to let them know I want them around and that I love them. And, I guess it also helps me not to feel so lonely, too... they are like little teddy bears.
Well, that is enough of that... there is an update on our family... the good, funny, sad, and scary.
We press on!
He is still eating tomato soup, at least, and crackers, and he is drinking water and orange Gatorade, and a little bit of fruit. Not much else seems to sound good to him. At least he is eating, and so far no mouth sores or fevers or vomiting! Very good start, I should say!
I had a rough sleep here last night, because someone coded on this floor in the other pod or whatever you call it. I checked on Ron and he was sleeping like a brick. I called his name and got up to touch him to be sure he was okay (like a mommy does to a new-born baby), and the guy just kept sleeping. I think it was the Fenagren (sp?). When there is a code blue, I think the whole hospital is put on alert... it is loudly announced over the intercom... even if it was in the Ross Heart Hospital, which there was one there last night too, right after the one on the 3rd floor of the James Cancer Hospital... it was making me a nervous wreck, but they have to do that so wherever the needed staff might be, they will know they need to get going.
Unless something comes up, I might not get to spend another night with Ron until Thursday next week, but I do plan to make frequent trips up here for visits. I plan to bring the girls once or twice up here next week to see their daddy, they didn't get to see him at all this week.
The children are doing well, and you would not believe the questions Faith is asking me. One example is: "Mommy, does God love sinners that are in Hell?" Other questions have been equally if not more complicated than that! Her wheels are really turning these days! Sometimes I just tell her we'll have to ask Daddy, because I don't know some of the answers to her questions. She has become quite huggy, too. She is will just come up to me and squeeze me tight, and say omething like, "I just love you soooooo much. I love daddy, too. And, I love Jesus." Awww! I love her, too!
Charity is still stuck to her gum addiction... I need to break that before she gets a cavity. She is professional at whining, and I cannot stand whining! She is learning alot lately, and she is very good at memorizing. She is a character and can crack me up sometimes! I bought the girl a "Barrel of Monkeys" the other day, and they had fun learning to play that game... they cheat some though... their coordination isn't quite good enough, it seems to play it without using both hands to connect those monkeys... we'll get it.
Hope is funny. We were watching a video together about a little kitten and a puppy, and the kitten was playing with a crab and the crab grabbed the kitten's nose, and Hope was horrified. She was like "nooo!" and started crying a fearful cry. You have to understand that Hope doesn't talk a whole lot yet, and so sometimes I don't realize how much she understands about her surroundings, so I was taken by surprise when she understood that the kitten was getting hurt. She is starting to talk more now, though. When she potties in her diaper, and I change it, you might hear her say, "Ewww, guck!" or when I am done, she kindly says "kank oo" (thank you). Dog is "gog" and I think she calls both Faithy and Charity "tee-tee" unless you purposely ask her to say "Faith", then she might say some like "fate." Maybe it has something to do with her being the youngest child that I haven't spent more time teaching her how to talk... I know, that is a bad mommy, I really ought to start reading to her picture books, after all, in a couple of months, she will be two, and I would like her to get caught up a little. When Ron gets out of the hospital, I would like to get her started with potty training. Believe it or not, Faith takes off Hope's diaper sometimes and sits her on the toilet... I think I like that! If my 5 year old wants to help potty-train the baby, more power to her! I could use the extra hands... she is actually able to help me out in alot of ways! She helps with housecleaning, changing wet diapers, and making sure the bathroom door stays shut (so baby doesn't play in commode). She is also very good at making messes, too.
I made them homemade play-dough the other day, and they really liked that, but Hope threw a bunch on the floor... which wouldn't be such a big deal, except my kitchen floor is carpeted... maybe someday I will change that... it is pretty new carpet, but, with small children, it is not the most convenient thing. I would like to get into playing more games with them on a regular basis, which gives me an idea for Christmas presents. They are getting to the age (well, at least the two older ones) that I think they would really enjoy that fun, bonding time.
I have been taking turns some nights with sleeping with the girls... they really like it when it is their turn to sleep in Mommy's bed... although Hope is so wiggly and squirmy that the last time I allowed her to sleep with me, I could hardly sleep... the other two usually do very well. We'll have to stop this ritual probably once Ron gets home, but I figured it might be helpful to the children at this time when their little worlds are different, to let them know I want them around and that I love them. And, I guess it also helps me not to feel so lonely, too... they are like little teddy bears.
Well, that is enough of that... there is an update on our family... the good, funny, sad, and scary.
We press on!
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Now, comes the hard part...
In the next couple of days, his immune system will die and then, then he is supposed to rebound with his new cells. His counts will fall, and that time can make you very miserable. There are alot of sick people on this floor. I have heard Ron praying for other patients as he sat in his room listening to them vomit.
He did so well yesterday, that his nurse was shocked. I know it must be because of all the people who are praying for him. He ate some, walked a mile on the treadmill, and did some push-ups (the nurses weren't happy about the push-ups, because if his platelets are too low, and he got injured, he could bleed badly), and we had "church" together last night. If you were close to his room, you would have likely heard some of it, as we sang together, read the Scriptures, and prayed. It was really nice to be with him.
This morning he is tired. He is doing well so far. He has had some nausea, but has not vomited yet. They are watching him closely... he was really cold this morning and the nurse was afraid he was getting a fever, but so far, so good. I know you guys were praying, because he is doing so well.
Okay, I am feeling a little proud. You know that verse about it not being good for man to be alone? Well, I think that has proven true here at the hospital. I felt kind-of like when I was able to be with him, it motavated him... got him up and busy... and, the more he can keep the food and fluids down and exercise, the better! That, his counts rebounding, and lack of illnesses are what will help him get out of here sooner. He has it in his mind that he wants to get out of here in two weeks... some have acted like that is nearly impossible, but Ron is holding to that hope. I am hoping that, too. I am also hoping that he won't have to stay up here in an apartment for 6-8 weeks afterward like alot of people do. I want to take him home with me, and just make the trip a couple of times a week for his appointments.
The doctor asked if I can drive fast... well, yeah, I guess, don't want a ticket, though.
I have to leave Ron today, but I plan to come back tomorrow night. I so appreciate those who are helping take good care of my precious little ones so I can be with Ron some during this.
Well, I guess I best be going... thanks again for your prayers.
We press on!
Psalm 91... check it out!
He did so well yesterday, that his nurse was shocked. I know it must be because of all the people who are praying for him. He ate some, walked a mile on the treadmill, and did some push-ups (the nurses weren't happy about the push-ups, because if his platelets are too low, and he got injured, he could bleed badly), and we had "church" together last night. If you were close to his room, you would have likely heard some of it, as we sang together, read the Scriptures, and prayed. It was really nice to be with him.
This morning he is tired. He is doing well so far. He has had some nausea, but has not vomited yet. They are watching him closely... he was really cold this morning and the nurse was afraid he was getting a fever, but so far, so good. I know you guys were praying, because he is doing so well.
Okay, I am feeling a little proud. You know that verse about it not being good for man to be alone? Well, I think that has proven true here at the hospital. I felt kind-of like when I was able to be with him, it motavated him... got him up and busy... and, the more he can keep the food and fluids down and exercise, the better! That, his counts rebounding, and lack of illnesses are what will help him get out of here sooner. He has it in his mind that he wants to get out of here in two weeks... some have acted like that is nearly impossible, but Ron is holding to that hope. I am hoping that, too. I am also hoping that he won't have to stay up here in an apartment for 6-8 weeks afterward like alot of people do. I want to take him home with me, and just make the trip a couple of times a week for his appointments.
The doctor asked if I can drive fast... well, yeah, I guess, don't want a ticket, though.
I have to leave Ron today, but I plan to come back tomorrow night. I so appreciate those who are helping take good care of my precious little ones so I can be with Ron some during this.
Well, I guess I best be going... thanks again for your prayers.
We press on!
Psalm 91... check it out!
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Transplant Day Today!
Greetings family, friends, and lurkers,
I am here at The James... I was able to stay the night with Ron. This morning is the transplant. Some folk are a little confused. This is NOT a surgery, or at least there is no cutting going on. The only cutting that was involved was last week when they put the central line in. What is happening today is the stem cells from two umbilical cords/placentas are being put through that tube that he has received all that chemo, etc, and they begin to take over. Perhaps you are more familiar with the sister transplant... the bone marrow transplant... that should give you maybe a more familiar term to know what Ron is doing here.
In case you are wondering about the children and me. Well, we've been having quite the adventure! If it could go wrong, it did. If it could go right, it did. Our church has bought us groceries, paid for gas, and I even had one friend stay all night with us the other night... that was nice! My microwave killed over, but the church gave me one of the microwaves they had in their basement... it works well. One of my vans broke down, but the Manley's rescued me... ha, I didn't put it in park before I tried to restart it... that is why it wouldn't start. I keep loosing things, and I am feeling like part of my brain is missing... it is... the Ron part. Wow, life has been different without him.
Going to go now. Love you, guys!
I am here at The James... I was able to stay the night with Ron. This morning is the transplant. Some folk are a little confused. This is NOT a surgery, or at least there is no cutting going on. The only cutting that was involved was last week when they put the central line in. What is happening today is the stem cells from two umbilical cords/placentas are being put through that tube that he has received all that chemo, etc, and they begin to take over. Perhaps you are more familiar with the sister transplant... the bone marrow transplant... that should give you maybe a more familiar term to know what Ron is doing here.
In case you are wondering about the children and me. Well, we've been having quite the adventure! If it could go wrong, it did. If it could go right, it did. Our church has bought us groceries, paid for gas, and I even had one friend stay all night with us the other night... that was nice! My microwave killed over, but the church gave me one of the microwaves they had in their basement... it works well. One of my vans broke down, but the Manley's rescued me... ha, I didn't put it in park before I tried to restart it... that is why it wouldn't start. I keep loosing things, and I am feeling like part of my brain is missing... it is... the Ron part. Wow, life has been different without him.
Going to go now. Love you, guys!
Saturday, October 3, 2009
He is doing fine.
I am here at OSU, and Ron is doing fine so far. Has had a little nausua, but he is doing well, and the girls are happy to see him in the family waiting area... we even went to eat at the Wendy's down stairs together.
I brought our laptop to him, and so now you may email him, and he can watch church services tomorrow... glad there are some holiness churches out there with internet availability so Ron can "go to church."
His email is the same as mine, which is below.
The internet is much faster here than at home. I am going to miss my laptop, but, you know, I think it will be a blessing to him.
Once again he is doing really well, but the tough part hasn't come yet. Keep praying, my good friends!
I brought our laptop to him, and so now you may email him, and he can watch church services tomorrow... glad there are some holiness churches out there with internet availability so Ron can "go to church."
His email is the same as mine, which is below.
The internet is much faster here than at home. I am going to miss my laptop, but, you know, I think it will be a blessing to him.
Once again he is doing really well, but the tough part hasn't come yet. Keep praying, my good friends!
Friday, October 2, 2009
I am so excited!
Tomorrow, I get to go see my man! A big thank you to Amy S who is riding up with me and my girls! I haven't seen him since I left him there Wednesday! Another thank you goes to the Blowers family who is ready on call to watch the children for a few hours so I can visit Ron... they pastor around there and are easily accessible and very trustworthy. And, another thank you goes to the Durrs who pastor a Bible Methodist church! They are really stepping out and taking the plunge as they are planning to take the children for 2 nights next week!
Ron is already experiencing nausea, and the medicine they have been giving him for the nausea makes him very sleepy. In fact, he may call me, but not say much or sound slurred because he is drugged... it is not as fun to have a one way conversation.
It has been strange here without him the last couple of days and nights. You know things would get broken or messed up when Ron isn't here to fix them. First night, Hope fell off my bed! She ended up being okay, but it scared me. Then, yesterday, I tried to shop with my children and go to the library. That is going to take time to get used to... it was nice when Ron was available to lend a hand some of the time. Then, today, a drain got clogged, and I had to figure out that... well, I poured the drain cleaner stuff down it... that acid stuff scares me, but it worked. Then, I killed my microwave while making supper! I had cooked the potatoes in the microwave as usual, but they made an unusual amount of noise, and wa-la, the machine won't work now... maybe I can fix it, I don't know. Won't be the first thing I have tried to fix... do you remember that headlight last year... I am going to learn some skills yet. Just as long as I don't try to climb on the roof this year to clean gutters... I am TERRIBLY afraid of heights... found out just how afraid last year after Ron's transplant... he got to tease me about that one. But there is one thing that needs done that requires a ladder, but I think I can handle it. Looks like I won't need to be cutting the grass much more, and Ron trimmed the trees so much that I doubt I will have too many leaves to rake... but, even if I did, I like doing that kind of work.
I have been cleaning and cleaning and homeschooling my children today... keep busy, keep busy, keep busy, talk on the phone, wash and fold laundry, make play-dough for kids, clean out van, cook, read, scrub bathrooms, vacuum, watch video about airplanes or Charlie Brown with the kids, just whatever I do, I must keep busy... or it hurts too much... I will miss him too much... I will get afraid... so, I just keep busy.
Ron's mom and sister stopped by for a few minutes today... it was nice to have some company, someone to give me a hug and say they loved me. I am looking forward to a nice hug from my man tomorrow... hope he is not too drugged to visit... cause I don't know if I will get to see him again until Tuesday night. That is a 3 night wait again, and I need this to be a good visit.
It is hard to sleep at night here... there is just too much to do, so much on my mind, and I just sometimes don't want to go to bed. I slept on the couch last night. It doesn't matter anyway where I sleep if Ron is not here, and well, it is just a little weird without him.
We are really doing well... just as long as I stay busy. I know that some folk think I am doing wrong by not being with Ron more, but I must obey my husband, and if he tells me I have to stay with the kids most of the time, then, my hands are tied... not only that, but, I have to schedule babysitters in a way that does not overwhelm anyone who already has alot of other responsibilities and in a way that puts our children in safe, healthy, and happy Christian atmospheres. I have seen a few frowns and whisperings about our decisions, but overall, people are very supportive and kind, and I am grateful!
By the way, Ron has been telling me that some of my friends out there have been calling him... thanks! Keep it up! You all are such a blessing! Thanks everyone!
Oh, by the way, my mom's heart cath was Monday, and there were no serious blockages, just some narrowing. She is taking it easy right now.
Now, to the rest of my family, I FORBID you to get sick or try dying. I am done with the competition, okay. Enough is enough. No one is allowed to have a heart attack, get cancer, or any other serious complication for the next 3 months, okay. Just settle down and take a little break from the drama. You all are making me nervous! I teasing you, of course, but I do think we could use a little break... don't you agree?
Well, now, is it nearly midnight? Oh, yes... maybe I will get to sleep before 2 am tonight. That would be nice. Goodnight, y'all!
Ron is already experiencing nausea, and the medicine they have been giving him for the nausea makes him very sleepy. In fact, he may call me, but not say much or sound slurred because he is drugged... it is not as fun to have a one way conversation.
It has been strange here without him the last couple of days and nights. You know things would get broken or messed up when Ron isn't here to fix them. First night, Hope fell off my bed! She ended up being okay, but it scared me. Then, yesterday, I tried to shop with my children and go to the library. That is going to take time to get used to... it was nice when Ron was available to lend a hand some of the time. Then, today, a drain got clogged, and I had to figure out that... well, I poured the drain cleaner stuff down it... that acid stuff scares me, but it worked. Then, I killed my microwave while making supper! I had cooked the potatoes in the microwave as usual, but they made an unusual amount of noise, and wa-la, the machine won't work now... maybe I can fix it, I don't know. Won't be the first thing I have tried to fix... do you remember that headlight last year... I am going to learn some skills yet. Just as long as I don't try to climb on the roof this year to clean gutters... I am TERRIBLY afraid of heights... found out just how afraid last year after Ron's transplant... he got to tease me about that one. But there is one thing that needs done that requires a ladder, but I think I can handle it. Looks like I won't need to be cutting the grass much more, and Ron trimmed the trees so much that I doubt I will have too many leaves to rake... but, even if I did, I like doing that kind of work.
I have been cleaning and cleaning and homeschooling my children today... keep busy, keep busy, keep busy, talk on the phone, wash and fold laundry, make play-dough for kids, clean out van, cook, read, scrub bathrooms, vacuum, watch video about airplanes or Charlie Brown with the kids, just whatever I do, I must keep busy... or it hurts too much... I will miss him too much... I will get afraid... so, I just keep busy.
Ron's mom and sister stopped by for a few minutes today... it was nice to have some company, someone to give me a hug and say they loved me. I am looking forward to a nice hug from my man tomorrow... hope he is not too drugged to visit... cause I don't know if I will get to see him again until Tuesday night. That is a 3 night wait again, and I need this to be a good visit.
It is hard to sleep at night here... there is just too much to do, so much on my mind, and I just sometimes don't want to go to bed. I slept on the couch last night. It doesn't matter anyway where I sleep if Ron is not here, and well, it is just a little weird without him.
We are really doing well... just as long as I stay busy. I know that some folk think I am doing wrong by not being with Ron more, but I must obey my husband, and if he tells me I have to stay with the kids most of the time, then, my hands are tied... not only that, but, I have to schedule babysitters in a way that does not overwhelm anyone who already has alot of other responsibilities and in a way that puts our children in safe, healthy, and happy Christian atmospheres. I have seen a few frowns and whisperings about our decisions, but overall, people are very supportive and kind, and I am grateful!
By the way, Ron has been telling me that some of my friends out there have been calling him... thanks! Keep it up! You all are such a blessing! Thanks everyone!
Oh, by the way, my mom's heart cath was Monday, and there were no serious blockages, just some narrowing. She is taking it easy right now.
Now, to the rest of my family, I FORBID you to get sick or try dying. I am done with the competition, okay. Enough is enough. No one is allowed to have a heart attack, get cancer, or any other serious complication for the next 3 months, okay. Just settle down and take a little break from the drama. You all are making me nervous! I teasing you, of course, but I do think we could use a little break... don't you agree?
Well, now, is it nearly midnight? Oh, yes... maybe I will get to sleep before 2 am tonight. That would be nice. Goodnight, y'all!
Thursday, October 1, 2009
He's admitted!
You may write to him... remember not to send him live flowers as he cannot have them.
Ronald S. Cook Room 356a
OSUCCC-James Cancer Hospital
300 W 10th Avenue
Columbus, Ohio 43210
He doesn't have a cool view from his room like last time, but his doctor might switch him to the room he had before if it opens up and if he wants it again. The room he has now is nice and spacey.
He got his central line placed Wednesday, and on Thursday morning, he is to start the chemo.
The doctor says everything looks in his favor. He is very strong, is considered in the state of remission right now, is young, and all of his tests evaluating his lung, kidney, and heart functions came back good, and his bone marrow test came back negative. This makes this transplant look very favorable in the doctor's eyes as a possibility for cure without much complications. Of course, there are no guarantees, and anything could go wrong... and, there are side effects and possibilities of damages from this, but they feel it is the best thing to do. I guess the doc told Ron he was either one of or the strongest person he has seen do this thing, or something like that.... might have something to do with Ron's desire to do push-ups and exercise while on chemo, and that he is such a big guy. If you just looked at him, you would likely not ever guess he even had cancer... except I see it... I see how the chemo and disease has made his eyes look different... darker underneath.
I hope that he never has any of the long term risks of the treatments he is about to go through, like cataracts, lung and heart problems, GVH disease, or leukemia. That wouldn't be fun.
Tonight is my first night here at our little home with him in the hospital. The children are sleeping and I am thinking about my plans for the next day... clean the house, teach the children, go out for a while, clean out the van, and call Ron a lot. I imagine the next day will be similar, but Saturday, I plan to see my man, and I might even let the girls see him too. The only way that can happen is if he is well enough to come out to the family waiting area with his mask on and his buddy (the IV pole) being pulled along side him. The children are not allowed to visit him on the unit.
Wow! My church treated me royally Wednesday night! One family bought us something to eat after church. People were ready to help load and unload the children from the vehicle. One family gave us a gas card, and then a group of people took up an offering! They helped me with my children during church, too! Special thanks to the Sowers family for watching my children Tuesday evening through Wednesday evening so I could take Ron to the hospital early Wednesday morning and get him set up. Thanks to the Adams family for dinner.
In case you don't know, all of the chemo and blood products he will be receiving will go through the central line that was placed today... that is also how they give him the transplant... they put those new cells through that line. The transplant is kind-of non-climatic. No big surgery or anything... just some cells going through a tube that leads into his heart area. But, those cells are what are to rescue him. When his immune system dies, they take over the house... well, actually, the doc said really only one of those umbilical cords' cells will triumph over his body in the end, but they cannot predict right now which will win in this double umbilical cord stem-cell transplant. Let the fight for life begin!
Ronald S. Cook Room 356a
OSUCCC-James Cancer Hospital
300 W 10th Avenue
Columbus, Ohio 43210
He doesn't have a cool view from his room like last time, but his doctor might switch him to the room he had before if it opens up and if he wants it again. The room he has now is nice and spacey.
He got his central line placed Wednesday, and on Thursday morning, he is to start the chemo.
The doctor says everything looks in his favor. He is very strong, is considered in the state of remission right now, is young, and all of his tests evaluating his lung, kidney, and heart functions came back good, and his bone marrow test came back negative. This makes this transplant look very favorable in the doctor's eyes as a possibility for cure without much complications. Of course, there are no guarantees, and anything could go wrong... and, there are side effects and possibilities of damages from this, but they feel it is the best thing to do. I guess the doc told Ron he was either one of or the strongest person he has seen do this thing, or something like that.... might have something to do with Ron's desire to do push-ups and exercise while on chemo, and that he is such a big guy. If you just looked at him, you would likely not ever guess he even had cancer... except I see it... I see how the chemo and disease has made his eyes look different... darker underneath.
I hope that he never has any of the long term risks of the treatments he is about to go through, like cataracts, lung and heart problems, GVH disease, or leukemia. That wouldn't be fun.
Tonight is my first night here at our little home with him in the hospital. The children are sleeping and I am thinking about my plans for the next day... clean the house, teach the children, go out for a while, clean out the van, and call Ron a lot. I imagine the next day will be similar, but Saturday, I plan to see my man, and I might even let the girls see him too. The only way that can happen is if he is well enough to come out to the family waiting area with his mask on and his buddy (the IV pole) being pulled along side him. The children are not allowed to visit him on the unit.
Wow! My church treated me royally Wednesday night! One family bought us something to eat after church. People were ready to help load and unload the children from the vehicle. One family gave us a gas card, and then a group of people took up an offering! They helped me with my children during church, too! Special thanks to the Sowers family for watching my children Tuesday evening through Wednesday evening so I could take Ron to the hospital early Wednesday morning and get him set up. Thanks to the Adams family for dinner.
In case you don't know, all of the chemo and blood products he will be receiving will go through the central line that was placed today... that is also how they give him the transplant... they put those new cells through that line. The transplant is kind-of non-climatic. No big surgery or anything... just some cells going through a tube that leads into his heart area. But, those cells are what are to rescue him. When his immune system dies, they take over the house... well, actually, the doc said really only one of those umbilical cords' cells will triumph over his body in the end, but they cannot predict right now which will win in this double umbilical cord stem-cell transplant. Let the fight for life begin!
Monday, September 28, 2009
Answers
Here are some of the answers to the questions asked in an earlier post. These are not in any certain order, but here we go:
Of course, we have three children... Faith Ann (5 years and in kindergarten... homeschooling), Charity Ruth (3 years), and Hope Christiana.
Ron and I have been married for a little over 6 years.
We were both GBS students and became acquainted then.
I was in New Mexico doing mission's work on a Navajo Reservation with the Yates' family. Ron was back here in the Dayton area when we were "dating."
We were married June 14, 2003, a month before I turned 22, and Ron was 27.
We had both felt called to do mission's work years before.
Ron had a lump under his arm in the Fall of 2007, at which time I was expecting our third baby in December.
He had received antibiotics, but they did not help. Had a biopsy... Ron was pretty convinced it was an infection or something, but before we found out the results of that biopsy, Ron developed double vision, and could not even drive to work... went to the eye doc, they sent him for MRI, family doc calls us, tells us to go to this neurologist, bring wife, lots of info... In that one dramatic sweep of a week, it all to a head in that neurologist's office as he said, "You have Hodgkin's, right?" We were like "um... nobody has said anything to us about it." or something like that. And, so, the flood of news swept over us as the doctor confirms that the biopsy of the swelling under his arm was indeed Hodgkin's disease... a form of lymphoma, and not only that but there was a tumor growing under Ron's brain that would have to be very quickly taken care of... that Sunday!!! Ron had been having low grade fevers at night and night sweats... I was sure it was something serious.
Now, generally, Hodgkin's lumps are not painful, but his was very tender and kept growing... got antibiotics, because of an infection. Before his brain surgery, he had to take steroids to slow the tumor's growth, because of the headache Ron started getting. I think it was against an optic nerve and a blood vessel... the surgery would be tricky, but he made it, and I still remember my fear and grief... him looking dead, but talking a mile a minute, and I still remember making those phone calls before all this to somehow break the news that Ron had this deadly disease called cancer... What a week and a half that was. The following Sunday, after Ron's surgery, he was back in church!!! Stitches across half his head and a head covering made him look rough. He had just turned 32.
Ron has had radiation to his head (tumor area that is no longer there), and to his chest. He had had 4 regimens of chemo and is about to have another. He is about to get full body irradiation and chemo and his second stem cell transplant.
It was maybe about this time two years ago that he discovered that lump... but, he did not realize that he was Stage 4B.... the B means he was symptomatic. He was loaded with disease! It was all through lots of lymph nodes in the chest, under his arms, under his brain, and it even showed up on the PETs as starting on several bones! His organs were fine.
He had to have lots of tests, but one that really frightened me was the HIV test. It is a standard test for people with Hodgkin's, but he was negative... what a sigh of relief! One of the grossest tests was the bone marrow biopsy. Remember, I was pregnant, and the sight of Ron's head being wrapped up with a tube with blood hanging out was enough to almost make me faint, but watching them drill Ron's hip while he was wide awake, was quite something! He was tough, and there were so many people who stepped up to the plate and were so kind and helpful. Christmas that year was one I hope I never forget! I have never seen so many presents in my life! I had a new baby on the 13th, Ron had already had radiation to his head, and had started chemo, but he was alive, and churches had made my children's Christmas very special!
Fatigue is normal for Hodgkin's Disease, but Ron perseveres.
The Epstein Barr Virus is sometimes thought to be related to Hodgkin's. So, are other immune deficiency problems, but there is no conclusive cause of the disease.
The shots I have had to give to Ron are Neupogen... they boost the marrow to produce white blood cells, which are often killed off the chemotherapy. The chemo is designed to killed fast growing cells... cancer... but, other cells are also fast growing, like your hair, nails, and white blood cells. I learned to give these shots initially as a nursing school student. I didn't get a nursing degree, but I did do clinicals on a med/surg floor and then, on an oncology floor. This was before I even went to New Mexico... I believe this was God's preparing me for caring for my husband.
Now, Hodgkin's, if treated in Stage 1 or 2, is said to be 93 percent curable. One of the standard treatments is ABVD, and is pretty successful, from what I understand... but, Ron's cancer was more extensive, and although it was initially reacting well to the chemo, it started to grow again... even with the ABVD.
Ron is about to go for a major treatment that is very frightening... he is to get his line put in again on Wed and do the planning, etc., of the radiation. Thursday starts the big chemo, then after a few days of that, he is to get the radiation, I believe, then after that is the transplant of umbilical cord/placenta cells. After this comes the sickness, and the drop of cells as his own immune system is wiped out of his body and the new cells take over. And, caution is up as we watch for any viruses, bacteria, fungi and protect him from them, and watch for the dreaded Graft-Versus-Host Disease.
I know that this probably does not answer all those questions, but maybe I can answer them in a future post.
When Ron is admitted in The James, I will try to post his address and room number so those who wish to send cards may. Remember that if you have any signs of illness or soiled clothing, please have those resolved before visiting him. You must wash your hands before and after leaving his room, and you could be asked to wear a mask and gown if Ron is ill. No children under 12 may come into the unit. Visitors are welcome, but I will caution that he may not feel like talking after the first week is over, but he would feel encouraged if his friends stopped by. If you want to bring youth or children, a cool idea is to find out where his room is and stand under his room, and wave up to him. Last time, there was an awesome veiw from his room and it would have been neat for a group of people to show up and wave up to his room to cheer him on. Just an idea! My children may visit in the family waiting area, and he can come out with his mask and hat and IV pole to visit them if he is well enough. Faith is already asking me if she may visit Daddy in the hospital, and he is not even there yet.
We are still praying for God's will in the care of our children. We want Godly, kind influences in their lives right now, and I have someone like that to watch them Wednesday, and I have some offers from people... I also am trying to be cautious not to overwhelm anyone, either... it does take alot of energy and patience to care from 3 little ones, and they need a gentle touch right now... their lives are about to be disturbed again.
SO, there you go... a quick review of the answers to a previous posts, and what our walk through this cancer has been like.
Thank you for your prayers.
Sarah
Of course, we have three children... Faith Ann (5 years and in kindergarten... homeschooling), Charity Ruth (3 years), and Hope Christiana.
Ron and I have been married for a little over 6 years.
We were both GBS students and became acquainted then.
I was in New Mexico doing mission's work on a Navajo Reservation with the Yates' family. Ron was back here in the Dayton area when we were "dating."
We were married June 14, 2003, a month before I turned 22, and Ron was 27.
We had both felt called to do mission's work years before.
Ron had a lump under his arm in the Fall of 2007, at which time I was expecting our third baby in December.
He had received antibiotics, but they did not help. Had a biopsy... Ron was pretty convinced it was an infection or something, but before we found out the results of that biopsy, Ron developed double vision, and could not even drive to work... went to the eye doc, they sent him for MRI, family doc calls us, tells us to go to this neurologist, bring wife, lots of info... In that one dramatic sweep of a week, it all to a head in that neurologist's office as he said, "You have Hodgkin's, right?" We were like "um... nobody has said anything to us about it." or something like that. And, so, the flood of news swept over us as the doctor confirms that the biopsy of the swelling under his arm was indeed Hodgkin's disease... a form of lymphoma, and not only that but there was a tumor growing under Ron's brain that would have to be very quickly taken care of... that Sunday!!! Ron had been having low grade fevers at night and night sweats... I was sure it was something serious.
Now, generally, Hodgkin's lumps are not painful, but his was very tender and kept growing... got antibiotics, because of an infection. Before his brain surgery, he had to take steroids to slow the tumor's growth, because of the headache Ron started getting. I think it was against an optic nerve and a blood vessel... the surgery would be tricky, but he made it, and I still remember my fear and grief... him looking dead, but talking a mile a minute, and I still remember making those phone calls before all this to somehow break the news that Ron had this deadly disease called cancer... What a week and a half that was. The following Sunday, after Ron's surgery, he was back in church!!! Stitches across half his head and a head covering made him look rough. He had just turned 32.
Ron has had radiation to his head (tumor area that is no longer there), and to his chest. He had had 4 regimens of chemo and is about to have another. He is about to get full body irradiation and chemo and his second stem cell transplant.
It was maybe about this time two years ago that he discovered that lump... but, he did not realize that he was Stage 4B.... the B means he was symptomatic. He was loaded with disease! It was all through lots of lymph nodes in the chest, under his arms, under his brain, and it even showed up on the PETs as starting on several bones! His organs were fine.
He had to have lots of tests, but one that really frightened me was the HIV test. It is a standard test for people with Hodgkin's, but he was negative... what a sigh of relief! One of the grossest tests was the bone marrow biopsy. Remember, I was pregnant, and the sight of Ron's head being wrapped up with a tube with blood hanging out was enough to almost make me faint, but watching them drill Ron's hip while he was wide awake, was quite something! He was tough, and there were so many people who stepped up to the plate and were so kind and helpful. Christmas that year was one I hope I never forget! I have never seen so many presents in my life! I had a new baby on the 13th, Ron had already had radiation to his head, and had started chemo, but he was alive, and churches had made my children's Christmas very special!
Fatigue is normal for Hodgkin's Disease, but Ron perseveres.
The Epstein Barr Virus is sometimes thought to be related to Hodgkin's. So, are other immune deficiency problems, but there is no conclusive cause of the disease.
The shots I have had to give to Ron are Neupogen... they boost the marrow to produce white blood cells, which are often killed off the chemotherapy. The chemo is designed to killed fast growing cells... cancer... but, other cells are also fast growing, like your hair, nails, and white blood cells. I learned to give these shots initially as a nursing school student. I didn't get a nursing degree, but I did do clinicals on a med/surg floor and then, on an oncology floor. This was before I even went to New Mexico... I believe this was God's preparing me for caring for my husband.
Now, Hodgkin's, if treated in Stage 1 or 2, is said to be 93 percent curable. One of the standard treatments is ABVD, and is pretty successful, from what I understand... but, Ron's cancer was more extensive, and although it was initially reacting well to the chemo, it started to grow again... even with the ABVD.
Ron is about to go for a major treatment that is very frightening... he is to get his line put in again on Wed and do the planning, etc., of the radiation. Thursday starts the big chemo, then after a few days of that, he is to get the radiation, I believe, then after that is the transplant of umbilical cord/placenta cells. After this comes the sickness, and the drop of cells as his own immune system is wiped out of his body and the new cells take over. And, caution is up as we watch for any viruses, bacteria, fungi and protect him from them, and watch for the dreaded Graft-Versus-Host Disease.
I know that this probably does not answer all those questions, but maybe I can answer them in a future post.
When Ron is admitted in The James, I will try to post his address and room number so those who wish to send cards may. Remember that if you have any signs of illness or soiled clothing, please have those resolved before visiting him. You must wash your hands before and after leaving his room, and you could be asked to wear a mask and gown if Ron is ill. No children under 12 may come into the unit. Visitors are welcome, but I will caution that he may not feel like talking after the first week is over, but he would feel encouraged if his friends stopped by. If you want to bring youth or children, a cool idea is to find out where his room is and stand under his room, and wave up to him. Last time, there was an awesome veiw from his room and it would have been neat for a group of people to show up and wave up to his room to cheer him on. Just an idea! My children may visit in the family waiting area, and he can come out with his mask and hat and IV pole to visit them if he is well enough. Faith is already asking me if she may visit Daddy in the hospital, and he is not even there yet.
We are still praying for God's will in the care of our children. We want Godly, kind influences in their lives right now, and I have someone like that to watch them Wednesday, and I have some offers from people... I also am trying to be cautious not to overwhelm anyone, either... it does take alot of energy and patience to care from 3 little ones, and they need a gentle touch right now... their lives are about to be disturbed again.
SO, there you go... a quick review of the answers to a previous posts, and what our walk through this cancer has been like.
Thank you for your prayers.
Sarah
Friday, September 25, 2009
"FUN DAYS"
Excuse the strange order of these pictures. The above pic was taken at Franklin Bible Methodist Church's new family building.
Some of these photos were taken at McDonald's playland.
Faith with her piano teacher, Darla Stroup.
The above hairstyle stayed in her hair for a few days.
I am calling what we have been doing since Ron has been at his retreat "fun days" to the kids, because I have been going out and doing lots of fun stuff with them, just because I want to. Yesterday, we went to Faith's piano lesson, then we went to my brother's house. I took lots of pictures! The kids got to play and eat with Wes and Rebecca's children, and I took pictures of their children and printed them with my little picture printer contraption. It is not professional, but they still turned out really cool, I think.We got home late last night. Then this morning, I made the girls help clean the house up so we could go out for a fun day. We went to a large McDonald's Play-land, then to a Metro-Park/farm. It was amazing. They have animals, a lake you can fish in without a fishing licence, trails, and people dressed up like the late 1800s. They also have a children's interactive room with an old school-room/house/barn set up inside. The girls had a blast!
I ran into a complication with keeping my children together a few times... I just need one or two more arms, and I would be set. Once was at McD... that was so embarrassing... here I was trying to order our food, and they were giving me a hard time... that was one of those moments that I just really needed Ron to hold the baby for me so I could get the food without dropping it, but we made it. Another time was when we went to leave the lake, and Faith collapsed on the ground for some reason and just sat there. I just kept walking without her (it was raining) and brought the rest of the children to the van, fastened them in, turned on the van, got in, and acted as though I was going to leave her. That got her moving! Of course, I would never leave a 5 year old at some park (anyone who would do that must be out of their mind!), but she was not quite so sure at that moment. She received discipline upon her arrival and a lecture on how dangerous it is to not stay close to your parents when you are little and obey, but then, we went on with our fun day. She was really tired, and all of the children fell asleep in the van when we left. We went thriftstore shopping after I discovered the libraries were already closed, and I got some cheesy toddler video for the kids, and though I found it annoying the kids enjoyed watching it when we got home and ate supper. I also bought them some other stuff. (Why is it so fun to buy stuff for your children?) Then, it was time to get their teeth brushed, have a Bible story, and all those night-time things, and go to bed. Then, I could have time to read my Bible and pray.
It was a packed day, and tomorrow I have more fun things planned.
If all of this bored you to pieces, I am sorry, but I was really proud of myself for all the things I did with my children today without anybody with me... well, I had Jesus with me... believe me, I did some praying for help the past couple of days... my children might have their Mommy's prayers of "Please, Jesus, I need Your help" all the time so ingrained in their minds, I wouldn't be surprised if they don't start saying it soon. I really need Jesus' help in everything! He did help me and the children. They had so much fun!
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Breaking news: the big day is...
WEDNESDAY. Yes, that is right! The insurance has now approved Ron's stem-cell transplant and the call came in today... they want him there this coming Wednesday!!! I don't know whether to be happy or to throw myself on my bed in tears! I am scared, excited, nervous, upset, relieved, uptight... well, it is a weird combination of emotions, and I am trying to stay busy... I need to think about something else... I mean, the brain surgery was a huge and dangerous ordeal, as was the autologous transplant, but this!?! I know others have made it through it and have been put into remission... check out this week's Focus on the Family to hear a story about a family who went through bone marrow transplants as well... but, I am still scared.
Ron is one of those guys some women dream of marrying, but they end up marrying a guy who is lazy and yells at their children. Ron and I argue sometimes... yes, but we have deep love for one another. You ought to see the way he trains our children! He does not spank them while he is upset... nope, he just goes and cools off, then talks with the child who was disobedient or mean, then he very carefully spanks them, then, he prays with them, hugs them... that is his usual manner. They know he loves them, and they also know he doesn't forget when he says they are in trouble... he just waits a while and makes sure he does it right. He is firm, but gentle... he is the dream of many children's hearts for a father. He tells them Bible stories about every night before they go to bed. They love to play with daddy. They love to sing and make music with daddy. Daddy provides very well for them. Daddy fishes with them, swims with them, eats with them, talks with them, makes up games with them, and they know Mommy calls him her "hero"... just ask Charity! They are really going to miss him... so is Mommy.
There are so many little and big things I have never really thanked him for... I mean, he goes out of his way to make my life easier... he loves me. Some husbands yell, scream, hit, and are never around... that is not Ron... I mean, yes, he works hard and does ministry, but by no means does he neglect his family. He is not the yelling type, and he definitely does not hit... and, screaming is something he does not like at all. He HATES verbal abuse! If he feels he has been too strong verbally with me, then he will apologize... he definitely does not abuse the children... no way! And, woe be to the person who would try to verbally attack his children or wife... HE DOES NOT PUT UP WITH SUCH TRASH! He is a protector. We are very safe when he is near... he will not allow others to abuse his family in any way. I love that about him. He really is my hero!
I can hardly wait until this ordeal is over and we can get on with our lives... he could get cured... wouldn't that be awesome! The chance may only be 25-33%, depending on which doc you are talking to, but it is a chance!
I thought that maybe I could give you all a quiz to see if you could remember or guess what this walk through Ron's cancer has been like. Let's see how many you can it figure out. Ready? Set? GO!
1. What were the first three signs or symptoms we noticed that lead Ron to get checked out?
2. How long ago did those appear?
3. A major symptom popped up before we got the test results back... what was it?
4. What had to take place the Sunday after we found out the results?
5. What major thing was going on with me at the same time?
6. How old did Ron just turn when he got the diagnosis?
7. What type of cancer/disease does Ron have?
8. What stage was it when it was found?
9. Where was the cancer located?
10. Where has he had radiation?
11. How many regimens of chemotherapy has he gone through?
12. How many surgeries has he had?
13. How many well- meaning people have called, written, sent literature, or talked to us about many alternative methods of cure? These are herbs, magnetic therapies, Indian remedies, anything that is not standard insurance-covered therapies. You may count me, too, since I also tried to convince Ron of something. Not that I am a doc or anything, I just care, too.
14. What is the abbreviations for the standard treatment of Ron's disease that generally puts many folks with his disease into remission?
15. What type of cells are associated with his disease?
16. If a patient is stage one or two, what is the cure rate?
17. What is the mortality rate doing this treatment he is about to go through?
18. I have given many shots to Ron... what kind is it? And, what does it do?
19. His disease is characterized somewhat because it is known for lowering one's body of immunity. This is increased by the chemotherapy killing off WBC... why does chemotherapy kill white blood cells when it is supposed to kill cancer cells?
20. There are many tests that someone must go through when they are diagnosed with this disease. What test majorly frightened me at the beginning of Ron's disease? What other test grossed me out?
21. What are the typical signs and symptoms of this disease Ron has? You should learn this... it has a way of creeping through a person who is unaware... or, too busy to just realize their body is infested with disease.
22. What disease is possible for Ron to have years from now because of his treatments?
23. How long have we been married?
24. How many children do we have?
25. What are their names and ages?
26. Ron and I were both called into a particular thing years before we were married... what was our united calling?
27. Where did we meet?
28. Where did Ron live when we were "dating"? Where was I?
29. Where did I first learn how to give the shot I have given Ron? Where did I get hands-on training in the area of oncology and med-surg? Hint: It was not a coincidence!
30. Are Ron and I still dreaming of fulfilling our calling?
Guess that is enough for now... you can find many of the answers to these questions by looking back through old posts... take a walk with us as we look back at what God has helped us through. Some people ask how we can do it. Honestly, sometimes I think God has numbed us... other times He held us as we cried. And, He was even there when I was angry. Some folks say they don't get angry, but well, sometimes I hurt so bad, I feel kind-of mad. Sometimes I just don't understand it all, but when the fog clears up I see God's hand-prints of grace and preparation in our lives. It is not about whether Ron gets healed... it is about whether God can keep us through it all. Will we run away from Him? Will we hate Him for allowing such apparent tragedy? Will we trust Him in the valley of the shadow of death? I have ran some, been confused, angry, and have had to ask Him to forgive me. He just takes me back and holds me and like a gentle father, He holds me close and lets me cry on His shoulder and rocks me until I calm down. I have no better one to turn to... but, my Creator and Saviour. And, I know of no other better example of God's grace and strength in our day than my husband. I know it is dangerous to put a person on a pedestal, but if you know Ron, I know you would have to agree. Keep on praying, dear friends, for him... this is tough stuff.
Until next time...
Clinging to the Rock
PS: I'll try to give you the above answers soon... in the meantime, see if you can figure them out yourself.
Ron is one of those guys some women dream of marrying, but they end up marrying a guy who is lazy and yells at their children. Ron and I argue sometimes... yes, but we have deep love for one another. You ought to see the way he trains our children! He does not spank them while he is upset... nope, he just goes and cools off, then talks with the child who was disobedient or mean, then he very carefully spanks them, then, he prays with them, hugs them... that is his usual manner. They know he loves them, and they also know he doesn't forget when he says they are in trouble... he just waits a while and makes sure he does it right. He is firm, but gentle... he is the dream of many children's hearts for a father. He tells them Bible stories about every night before they go to bed. They love to play with daddy. They love to sing and make music with daddy. Daddy provides very well for them. Daddy fishes with them, swims with them, eats with them, talks with them, makes up games with them, and they know Mommy calls him her "hero"... just ask Charity! They are really going to miss him... so is Mommy.
There are so many little and big things I have never really thanked him for... I mean, he goes out of his way to make my life easier... he loves me. Some husbands yell, scream, hit, and are never around... that is not Ron... I mean, yes, he works hard and does ministry, but by no means does he neglect his family. He is not the yelling type, and he definitely does not hit... and, screaming is something he does not like at all. He HATES verbal abuse! If he feels he has been too strong verbally with me, then he will apologize... he definitely does not abuse the children... no way! And, woe be to the person who would try to verbally attack his children or wife... HE DOES NOT PUT UP WITH SUCH TRASH! He is a protector. We are very safe when he is near... he will not allow others to abuse his family in any way. I love that about him. He really is my hero!
I can hardly wait until this ordeal is over and we can get on with our lives... he could get cured... wouldn't that be awesome! The chance may only be 25-33%, depending on which doc you are talking to, but it is a chance!
I thought that maybe I could give you all a quiz to see if you could remember or guess what this walk through Ron's cancer has been like. Let's see how many you can it figure out. Ready? Set? GO!
1. What were the first three signs or symptoms we noticed that lead Ron to get checked out?
2. How long ago did those appear?
3. A major symptom popped up before we got the test results back... what was it?
4. What had to take place the Sunday after we found out the results?
5. What major thing was going on with me at the same time?
6. How old did Ron just turn when he got the diagnosis?
7. What type of cancer/disease does Ron have?
8. What stage was it when it was found?
9. Where was the cancer located?
10. Where has he had radiation?
11. How many regimens of chemotherapy has he gone through?
12. How many surgeries has he had?
13. How many well- meaning people have called, written, sent literature, or talked to us about many alternative methods of cure? These are herbs, magnetic therapies, Indian remedies, anything that is not standard insurance-covered therapies. You may count me, too, since I also tried to convince Ron of something. Not that I am a doc or anything, I just care, too.
14. What is the abbreviations for the standard treatment of Ron's disease that generally puts many folks with his disease into remission?
15. What type of cells are associated with his disease?
16. If a patient is stage one or two, what is the cure rate?
17. What is the mortality rate doing this treatment he is about to go through?
18. I have given many shots to Ron... what kind is it? And, what does it do?
19. His disease is characterized somewhat because it is known for lowering one's body of immunity. This is increased by the chemotherapy killing off WBC... why does chemotherapy kill white blood cells when it is supposed to kill cancer cells?
20. There are many tests that someone must go through when they are diagnosed with this disease. What test majorly frightened me at the beginning of Ron's disease? What other test grossed me out?
21. What are the typical signs and symptoms of this disease Ron has? You should learn this... it has a way of creeping through a person who is unaware... or, too busy to just realize their body is infested with disease.
22. What disease is possible for Ron to have years from now because of his treatments?
23. How long have we been married?
24. How many children do we have?
25. What are their names and ages?
26. Ron and I were both called into a particular thing years before we were married... what was our united calling?
27. Where did we meet?
28. Where did Ron live when we were "dating"? Where was I?
29. Where did I first learn how to give the shot I have given Ron? Where did I get hands-on training in the area of oncology and med-surg? Hint: It was not a coincidence!
30. Are Ron and I still dreaming of fulfilling our calling?
Guess that is enough for now... you can find many of the answers to these questions by looking back through old posts... take a walk with us as we look back at what God has helped us through. Some people ask how we can do it. Honestly, sometimes I think God has numbed us... other times He held us as we cried. And, He was even there when I was angry. Some folks say they don't get angry, but well, sometimes I hurt so bad, I feel kind-of mad. Sometimes I just don't understand it all, but when the fog clears up I see God's hand-prints of grace and preparation in our lives. It is not about whether Ron gets healed... it is about whether God can keep us through it all. Will we run away from Him? Will we hate Him for allowing such apparent tragedy? Will we trust Him in the valley of the shadow of death? I have ran some, been confused, angry, and have had to ask Him to forgive me. He just takes me back and holds me and like a gentle father, He holds me close and lets me cry on His shoulder and rocks me until I calm down. I have no better one to turn to... but, my Creator and Saviour. And, I know of no other better example of God's grace and strength in our day than my husband. I know it is dangerous to put a person on a pedestal, but if you know Ron, I know you would have to agree. Keep on praying, dear friends, for him... this is tough stuff.
Until next time...
Clinging to the Rock
PS: I'll try to give you the above answers soon... in the meantime, see if you can figure them out yourself.
I like good news...
Just a few lines here.
I was told that my aunt is talking!!! And, no more respirator... Aunt Cathy, if you read this, if I have been spelling your name incorrectly, please forgive me... wasn't sure if you have a C or a K at the front of your name... that is bad, huh? I don't know that I have ever bragged on being a fantastic speller anyway... I like grammar, but, even that fails at this time of the night... who cares about punctuation, spelling, conjugation, and the correct format of sentences after midnight? I am just glad to hear that you are doing better! You are very much loved! Here is a long distance hug to you XXXX. We love you!
If anyone else wants to call me with good news, I will be glad to receive it. Lately, it seems that most people have bad news... I mean, can we take a break from all the trauma?!
Mom is scheduled to see the cardiologist Monday, and I guess she will probably have a heart cath whenever they schedule it. Dad still isn't feeling great since his heart attacks.
Ron is going to a Men's Retreat. I am so glad that it is scheduled before his transplant! I hope it is encouraging and relaxing to him... we all know he could use it... not sure if he can actually make himself not work for a couple of days... he's such a go-getter, busy, productive kind of guy... I really tried to encourage him to go to this thing, and I won... I love it when that happens! I have the next few days so booked for me and the girls that I think it is going to fly by! We are going to visit my brother's family, and do all sort-of stuff. I am actually excited to show the girls what is on the schedule! Call it a little vacation of a sort.
God has been good to us... we don't know what lies ahead, but the Bible says we can trust Jesus. So, I guess I better flop this load I have been carrying on His lap, 'cause I have no clue what to do with it. I am just wasting my energy and mind trying to figure everything out, and in the meantime, I have been often leaving out the One Who knows exactly what to do with it all. I need some sleep, and I guess carrying this massive load isn't conducive to sleep. So, FLOP, and goodnight!
I was told that my aunt is talking!!! And, no more respirator... Aunt Cathy, if you read this, if I have been spelling your name incorrectly, please forgive me... wasn't sure if you have a C or a K at the front of your name... that is bad, huh? I don't know that I have ever bragged on being a fantastic speller anyway... I like grammar, but, even that fails at this time of the night... who cares about punctuation, spelling, conjugation, and the correct format of sentences after midnight? I am just glad to hear that you are doing better! You are very much loved! Here is a long distance hug to you XXXX. We love you!
If anyone else wants to call me with good news, I will be glad to receive it. Lately, it seems that most people have bad news... I mean, can we take a break from all the trauma?!
Mom is scheduled to see the cardiologist Monday, and I guess she will probably have a heart cath whenever they schedule it. Dad still isn't feeling great since his heart attacks.
Ron is going to a Men's Retreat. I am so glad that it is scheduled before his transplant! I hope it is encouraging and relaxing to him... we all know he could use it... not sure if he can actually make himself not work for a couple of days... he's such a go-getter, busy, productive kind of guy... I really tried to encourage him to go to this thing, and I won... I love it when that happens! I have the next few days so booked for me and the girls that I think it is going to fly by! We are going to visit my brother's family, and do all sort-of stuff. I am actually excited to show the girls what is on the schedule! Call it a little vacation of a sort.
God has been good to us... we don't know what lies ahead, but the Bible says we can trust Jesus. So, I guess I better flop this load I have been carrying on His lap, 'cause I have no clue what to do with it. I am just wasting my energy and mind trying to figure everything out, and in the meantime, I have been often leaving out the One Who knows exactly what to do with it all. I need some sleep, and I guess carrying this massive load isn't conducive to sleep. So, FLOP, and goodnight!
Monday, September 21, 2009
When it rains, it pours... and, there's a storm here!
"The EKG wasn't normal. Mom has to have a heart cath now. How much more can our family take?" Rachel is my reporter. My parents are in financial difficulty partially due to dad's health issues and not being able to work, and therefore, they do not have long distance phone service. My little sister, who is a manager at a McDonald's "down home," has long distance and she keeps me posted somewhat on Dad, Aunt Cathy, and Mom. It is crazy how life can have its twists and turns! I call "home" often, too, to check up on my folks and for a report on my aunt.
However, I have some fun news... I feel inspired for another round of Children's Church. If you go to our church, please save your cereal boxes! If you have a cereal bar recipe, please share them with me. Electa, I need you to make me a life-size race car. Amy S, I will need your assistance with baby Hope again. Tha
nks, Rebecca M and Melodie Y, for running through my thoughts over the phone with me... Rebecca, you saved me on a few things, thanks! I am sooo very excited! The theme is JUMP START: BREAKFAST! Don't tell the children yet... I don't want to spoil the fun! I felt that the Lord may have given me the fresh idea last night as I sat looking at all the cereal the Roofs gave us. It hit me that there was a fresh idea there, and I prayed for what I should do, and I ran with it. I have the Bible lesson ideas ready, I know what character story I want, I know what CD I want to buy for the songs, I have verses picked out, some ideas for treats, and drew an outline for the decor for the classroom. The skeleton of the next series is ready... just need to fill in the blanks! SOOOO, excited! I have like maybe 5 weeks to get it all ready to go! I love this stuff. Although, I am having a little trouble with the bulletin board ideas, but, I am sure it'll come to me! This is something that just really helps take the sorrow off my heart with all the pain in my life right now... it is the numbing medicine and the boost... and, I am really glad! I need Children's Church as much as it needs me.
nks, Rebecca M and Melodie Y, for running through my thoughts over the phone with me... Rebecca, you saved me on a few things, thanks! I am sooo very excited! The theme is JUMP START: BREAKFAST! Don't tell the children yet... I don't want to spoil the fun! I felt that the Lord may have given me the fresh idea last night as I sat looking at all the cereal the Roofs gave us. It hit me that there was a fresh idea there, and I prayed for what I should do, and I ran with it. I have the Bible lesson ideas ready, I know what character story I want, I know what CD I want to buy for the songs, I have verses picked out, some ideas for treats, and drew an outline for the decor for the classroom. The skeleton of the next series is ready... just need to fill in the blanks! SOOOO, excited! I have like maybe 5 weeks to get it all ready to go! I love this stuff. Although, I am having a little trouble with the bulletin board ideas, but, I am sure it'll come to me! This is something that just really helps take the sorrow off my heart with all the pain in my life right now... it is the numbing medicine and the boost... and, I am really glad! I need Children's Church as much as it needs me.Thursday, September 17, 2009
Excuse us as we compare mobile homes.
This was part of Faith's schoolwork, and since it is becoming the season this, then I thought I would use it as part of our Fall decor.
The hair pin is not part of the decor, in case you are wondering :-) They just seem to be everywhere.
Yes, I know the picture on the wall needs straightened! That book on the piano is Faith's lessons... Alfred's Basic Prep Course. She is nearly through with the first book.
The wreath I made was too thick to put on my front door between the screen door and main door, so I sort-of tied it to the porch light. :-) I would have preferred it on the door, but it just wouldn't fit. I like the Autumn decor. I don't do Halloween, of course, but I like the warmness of the Autumn colors. Gives a cozy family feeling. I like the candles that come out at this season, as well.
Odd, I know, but that scarecrow and leaves in the curtain was about the best I could think of at the moment. I didn't have lots of money to spend on decorations, so I did what I could.
Rachel, this looks a little odd, because my camara had to stitch together three photos, so it make it look different. But, you can get the general idea. The above window's curtains are the one the children kept pulling off the wall. I bought new stuff to keep them up... shouldn't be so easy to pull down now.
This is the other side of the same room. I took the photos last night, so that is why it looks dark.
The girls' room.--------
My little sister, Rachel, just moved into a mobile home not long ago, and due to all the craziness in our lives right now... family, health, finances, work, schedules, you know... neither of us have been able to visit the other's trailor home. So, Rach, here's my attempt to take some panaramic pictures of a couple of rooms. I have 1 and 1/2 baths, 3 bedrooms, the kitchen and dining area are one and the same, a laundry CLOSET (this I don't much care for... nowhere to hide the ever growing laundry), a living room, and a small hall. The one bedroom is used as a school/study and is where Hope's pack'n'play currently is set up. We have a nice porch and a patio area. The neighbors here all seem to know each others' business and watch out for each other. If anything happened to Ron or they thought we needed help, I know several who would probably be knocking at my door, or asking if there is anything they can do. Not that they ever have had to do that, they just give me that impression mostly. If someone looked suspicious around here, I think the cops might receive several phone calls... the speed limit is 10 miles an hour here! They are particular about cleanliness and orderliness, and I have heard they will write up residents for not lining up. They have security, too. Nice play area with a track for exercise. It is usually VERY quiet here! What a change if you once lived near the city! They even have lots you can rent for gardening! I would like to do that next year, if possible. I like having big yards, but I am getting used to this. I feel pretty safe... except in tornado weather!
Even though I feel safe, it is going to be strange without my hubby here for a while. You see, although we have security, good neighbors over all, dead-bolt locks on the doors, locks on the windows, a light that pops on when there is movement outside, and I have Ron's gun, it is not the same as having my man. He weighs nearly 260 and is very strong... yes, even with all the chemo he has had. In his high school days, he was fourth in the state in heavy weight wrestling, and before he was a Christian, he would beat up people for the fun of it. Of course, he would not do that now, but I would not want to be the person who tried to harm his family... I am certain he can still take 'um down. I can't even do a whole push-up, but he can do lots of them, and because he still works hard, he is still muscular... maybe not quite like his wrestling days, but he is one strong preacher now... :-) I have been very impressed watching him lift very large appliances all by himself when we needed move them... he's a tough cookie!
But, there is One who is stronger still, who will be watching out for his children... and, I am so glad Jesus will be here with us. Maybe He will even send some reinforcements... some friends or some extra angels our way. That would be nice.
"But, Sarah, you are not alone."
Tonight I got a taste of what it will be like to be without my husband with me for a while.
He is in Columbus for the preliminary testing. He signed the consents... last night he wasn't sure, but decided finally to go through with it. He went for a few tests today, and has more tomorrow (actually "today" was yesterday, and "tomorrow" is now today, since it is after one in the morning). He has a bone marrow biopsy or aspiration tomorrow... those things are yuck. Watched him at least two or three times get those! You don't get put to sleep while they grind this thing through your skin and into your bone and the sound it makes is just... well, you just don't want to know! He does amazingly well during these things... maybe the numbing medicine is powerful or he's just a tough cookie. He will be home tomorrow, and we should know soon when he will be admitted.
I felt like an emotional basketcase at church. I really put extra effort into trying to be "prepared" for church... I mean, I had a sippy cup of water, snack crackers, raisins, paper and pencils, a book, a few toys, diapers, wipes, anti-bacterial lotion, powder, about anything you might need to make church go as smoothly as possible with three very tiny children and being without my husband's assistance. I even had them use the bathroom before church like a good mommy would. Changed the baby's diaper before church. Dressed them up cute, fixed their hair beautifully, and gave them a bite to eat before we went to church. We prayed before we left our trailor park for God's help in church. They napped in the van on the way to church. But, would you know with all the work I put into helping me survive the service, I still had a struggle with them! It just isn't the same without Ron. Yes, I heard Hope trying to sing, and Faith testified, but they weren't well rested, and I didn't have Ron. Some friends eventually came to my rescue, and that was nice.
As we prayed during the prayer meeting, I cried quietly to God because of the "alone-ness," and it was ever so sweet to "hear" Him gently say to me that I wasn't and wouldn't be alone... I felt Him direct my attention to my church family. I had been complaining lately about them a little... sometimes the devil tries to tell me that they really don't care, that they are too busy for sharing my hurt, but the devil is defeated tonight... he is a liar! After I felt God reminding me of my church family, I cried quietly and shook with the emotion of it all. Right then, someone came to where I was kneeling, wrapped their arm around me and prayed gently with me, then, someone came and sat with me and my children for the remainder of the service. They have no idea what they did for me tonight. Jesus was there... wrapped in the skins of my friends.
He is in Columbus for the preliminary testing. He signed the consents... last night he wasn't sure, but decided finally to go through with it. He went for a few tests today, and has more tomorrow (actually "today" was yesterday, and "tomorrow" is now today, since it is after one in the morning). He has a bone marrow biopsy or aspiration tomorrow... those things are yuck. Watched him at least two or three times get those! You don't get put to sleep while they grind this thing through your skin and into your bone and the sound it makes is just... well, you just don't want to know! He does amazingly well during these things... maybe the numbing medicine is powerful or he's just a tough cookie. He will be home tomorrow, and we should know soon when he will be admitted.
I felt like an emotional basketcase at church. I really put extra effort into trying to be "prepared" for church... I mean, I had a sippy cup of water, snack crackers, raisins, paper and pencils, a book, a few toys, diapers, wipes, anti-bacterial lotion, powder, about anything you might need to make church go as smoothly as possible with three very tiny children and being without my husband's assistance. I even had them use the bathroom before church like a good mommy would. Changed the baby's diaper before church. Dressed them up cute, fixed their hair beautifully, and gave them a bite to eat before we went to church. We prayed before we left our trailor park for God's help in church. They napped in the van on the way to church. But, would you know with all the work I put into helping me survive the service, I still had a struggle with them! It just isn't the same without Ron. Yes, I heard Hope trying to sing, and Faith testified, but they weren't well rested, and I didn't have Ron. Some friends eventually came to my rescue, and that was nice.
As we prayed during the prayer meeting, I cried quietly to God because of the "alone-ness," and it was ever so sweet to "hear" Him gently say to me that I wasn't and wouldn't be alone... I felt Him direct my attention to my church family. I had been complaining lately about them a little... sometimes the devil tries to tell me that they really don't care, that they are too busy for sharing my hurt, but the devil is defeated tonight... he is a liar! After I felt God reminding me of my church family, I cried quietly and shook with the emotion of it all. Right then, someone came to where I was kneeling, wrapped their arm around me and prayed gently with me, then, someone came and sat with me and my children for the remainder of the service. They have no idea what they did for me tonight. Jesus was there... wrapped in the skins of my friends.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
A couple of pics Part 2
Took this pic a few days ago while he was having fun with the kids in devotions. I think he was surprised by my outburst of picture taking that evening. Then, smooch!
The kiddies in our "new to us" van. It was Ron's parents' van, but they gave it to us. The AC doesn't really work either, but it is nice to have a second van so I wouldn't have to get up so early to take Ron to work so I could go somewhere certain days.
This was taken at the Air Force Musuem a few weeks ago.
Our big girl. Isn't it fun when they learn to fasten their own seatbelts and tighten them up?! I was glad when Faith learned how to do it herself.
Hope's really cheesing it up here, huh?A couple of pics
I caught this moment and thought it was too sweet to not capture. Faith loves her daddy. The Bible storybook you see is the series he has been reading to the girls nearly everyday.
God's gift to me... a Christian family! A God-fearing husband who is dedicated no matter what life brings, and three of the most beautiful, personality filled, talented, challenging, precious little girls in the world. The above photo was taken at Clinton Camp this Summer.Tuesday, September 15, 2009
I miss it already!
"It" is Children's Church. I just told Ron last night how much I missed teaching. You think I would be grateful for the break. I guess I am, but there is something so satisfying about teaching those youngsters. They are challenging, but wonderful! I think I would just shrivel up into nothing if I had noone to teach... so... right now, my students are my own kids at home. I had to take a break from CC because of Ron's situation; otherwise, I would have probably offered to keep going with a new theme. It felt strange being in the adult service Sunday morning. I enjoyed the service, except my baby Hope was exceptionally fussy (no, Amy, I didn't pinch her this time :-) You would just have to be there to know why I would do such a thing... she was not really hurt).
When we visited the Kenwood Church Sunday night, I saw their Children's Church before the service. My two older children went to CC that evening there. My children love Ms Charolette... she is so gentle and good with children... you get this feeling that she is geniunely interested in you alone. I would love to learn some skills from her. I want the children in our class to feel loved that way, too. It is something that could stick with a child for many years to come.
So, I guess I will just have to be patient and wait until I can start teaching again... the desire is burning a hole in me.
When we visited the Kenwood Church Sunday night, I saw their Children's Church before the service. My two older children went to CC that evening there. My children love Ms Charolette... she is so gentle and good with children... you get this feeling that she is geniunely interested in you alone. I would love to learn some skills from her. I want the children in our class to feel loved that way, too. It is something that could stick with a child for many years to come.
So, I guess I will just have to be patient and wait until I can start teaching again... the desire is burning a hole in me.
Monday, September 14, 2009
A lost art
There is a seemingly lost art that I got to experience last night. My hubby preached at Kenwood Bible Methodist Church and did a very fine job, and WE WERE INVITED to go to the Durr's house for dinner and fellowship afterward. They didn't just send us home with a sack lunch or whatever, they had us over and even though they are older they love kids!!! I mean, they were prepared! They have a play area for children!!! Seriously! They were sweet to my children, they weren't panicked about their house getting "messed up." I have found that when people have small children, invitations sometimes almost completely cease (except with family). I felt like someone wrapped their arms around me and just hugged me! It was absolutely wonderful. The food was great! The fellowship was enough to almost make me want to cry. I felt so good as I left. It didn't seem like just a duty... they said they enjoy company... we weren't even the only ones there. Larry Smith and his wife were there as well, and they didn't seem annoyed at my children either! No degrading comments, but rather compliments. How fun! Made me think that I need to try to have people over more often. It might make someone's day! I have lots of toys and books here for small children, and we live in a nice neighborhood with park nearby. I am prepared that way. There are probably lots of people out there that never get invited to someone's house... you know, have a relaxed dinner, the ladies clean-up, then everyone sits down and just visits... I don't mean gossip... just talk about their own lives, about the Bible, about ministry, about child-raising, grandparenting, recipes, quilting, whatever... when you are asked into someone's home, it is like they are allowing you into their world, and that is how I felt last night... it was like someone hugged me and said "I love you just the way you are, and that's that." It seems like a lost art, but I think I would like to learn it.
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Mission's Convention and other things
This weekend is Mission's Convention at our church. The mission's organization that comes every year is EFM. You ought to attend if you live close by!
I got word from my brother that my aunt that had the open heart surgery is not doing well... he said that he was told that her stomach was bleeding from the blood thinners. I called over to the hospital, and they said she is in ICU, but the nurse was busy and asked me to call back later. I had wanted to talk to my parents, but I don't know if they are there. That is the down side of my family not having cell phones. Ron and I have cells for many reasons... but, it is pretty pricey... but, I see it as a necessity right now. Ron and I can talk to each other as much as we want without using any minutes up... that is good, cause we talk to each other a whole lot throughout the day. I hope and pray that Aunt Cathy will be okay.
Um, this is a note to Tammy from camp... I tried to email you, but it didn't go through... could you email me... maybe that would clear up any errors I have in your email address.
theroncookfamily@yahoo.com
Thanks to all the pastors, friends, GBS folks, and others for the cards! They are so special! Keep in mind that we moved a while back, and so if you are sending them to our old address, they may take some time getting here. If you would like our new address, just email me (above). Thanks for your continued prayers concerning Ron's treatments.
By the way, for those of you who have been wondering (I know some have been, because I have been asked a few times), Ron's allergic reaction was not too serious the other day. I guess he got that feeling in his mouth, got a hive, but then took some Benedryl and that seemed to stop him from having the full effect. Sometimes his reactions can be quite uncomfortable, and when he was a child I guess it even affected his breathing. So, if we visit your house, and he asks what the ingredients are in your food, please do not be offended... he has to do that... no poultry meat allowed... poor guy... I love poultry, but don't see much point buying much of it if I can't make it for him.
I have been tackling laundry and other housework today. Nice thing about Saturdays is the break from homeschooling. I was not very nice to Faith yesterday in school and she has been telling people at church about it... how embarrassing! I told her I was sorry and I would not react in that manner again... if you homeschool, you might know what I mean, when I say that sometimes when they just don't seem to "get it," it can be frustrating. When I worked in Christian schools, the children were not mine, so I didn't take their errors personnally... but, for some reason, I did when Faith failed an oral evaluation yesterday. After my "not so nice" attitude, I changed my tactic. We took a break... I played babydolls with my girls... ha! Then, we tried a learning game. Seriously... it was like I was talking to a brick wall... I could not for the life of me get the concept across to her... Charity and Hope joined in the game, and Charity seemed to be catching on quicker than Faith. Soooo, after the game, I tried another tactic... I will have her write this thing over and over. We tried that. She started catching on. Seriously, I was determined to get this thing into her. She memorizes so well, and does well with phonics, but can you guess what the battle was?! Recognizing the numbers 10 and 11 (Math class)! Another day, the struggle was teaching her what a mayor was (Social Studies class). HA! I couldn't get her to say "mayor." Sounds silly looking back, but at the time, it seemed a big deal. She usually excels in her work... seriously excels! So, why was I making such a big deal out of it... don't know! I LOVE homeschooling... but, yesterday, I was ashamed that I had gotten so upset about something, that obviously was my fault, because I had not spent enough time in number recognition... sure, we've practiced counting, doing some telling time, did some work with patterns, etc., but we needed to work more on recognizing numbers 10-20 on flashcards. So, that means extra practice this week. Sigh. That is what can happen if you try to fly through your work... you can miss something important.
I got word from my brother that my aunt that had the open heart surgery is not doing well... he said that he was told that her stomach was bleeding from the blood thinners. I called over to the hospital, and they said she is in ICU, but the nurse was busy and asked me to call back later. I had wanted to talk to my parents, but I don't know if they are there. That is the down side of my family not having cell phones. Ron and I have cells for many reasons... but, it is pretty pricey... but, I see it as a necessity right now. Ron and I can talk to each other as much as we want without using any minutes up... that is good, cause we talk to each other a whole lot throughout the day. I hope and pray that Aunt Cathy will be okay.
Um, this is a note to Tammy from camp... I tried to email you, but it didn't go through... could you email me... maybe that would clear up any errors I have in your email address.
theroncookfamily@yahoo.com
Thanks to all the pastors, friends, GBS folks, and others for the cards! They are so special! Keep in mind that we moved a while back, and so if you are sending them to our old address, they may take some time getting here. If you would like our new address, just email me (above). Thanks for your continued prayers concerning Ron's treatments.
By the way, for those of you who have been wondering (I know some have been, because I have been asked a few times), Ron's allergic reaction was not too serious the other day. I guess he got that feeling in his mouth, got a hive, but then took some Benedryl and that seemed to stop him from having the full effect. Sometimes his reactions can be quite uncomfortable, and when he was a child I guess it even affected his breathing. So, if we visit your house, and he asks what the ingredients are in your food, please do not be offended... he has to do that... no poultry meat allowed... poor guy... I love poultry, but don't see much point buying much of it if I can't make it for him.
I have been tackling laundry and other housework today. Nice thing about Saturdays is the break from homeschooling. I was not very nice to Faith yesterday in school and she has been telling people at church about it... how embarrassing! I told her I was sorry and I would not react in that manner again... if you homeschool, you might know what I mean, when I say that sometimes when they just don't seem to "get it," it can be frustrating. When I worked in Christian schools, the children were not mine, so I didn't take their errors personnally... but, for some reason, I did when Faith failed an oral evaluation yesterday. After my "not so nice" attitude, I changed my tactic. We took a break... I played babydolls with my girls... ha! Then, we tried a learning game. Seriously... it was like I was talking to a brick wall... I could not for the life of me get the concept across to her... Charity and Hope joined in the game, and Charity seemed to be catching on quicker than Faith. Soooo, after the game, I tried another tactic... I will have her write this thing over and over. We tried that. She started catching on. Seriously, I was determined to get this thing into her. She memorizes so well, and does well with phonics, but can you guess what the battle was?! Recognizing the numbers 10 and 11 (Math class)! Another day, the struggle was teaching her what a mayor was (Social Studies class). HA! I couldn't get her to say "mayor." Sounds silly looking back, but at the time, it seemed a big deal. She usually excels in her work... seriously excels! So, why was I making such a big deal out of it... don't know! I LOVE homeschooling... but, yesterday, I was ashamed that I had gotten so upset about something, that obviously was my fault, because I had not spent enough time in number recognition... sure, we've practiced counting, doing some telling time, did some work with patterns, etc., but we needed to work more on recognizing numbers 10-20 on flashcards. So, that means extra practice this week. Sigh. That is what can happen if you try to fly through your work... you can miss something important.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Mommies are not allowed to be sick!
I feel blaaa! I am sick... my body aches, I cough, I sneeze, the lymph nodes in my throat feel weird, I have a different voice, temps a little higher than normal, and I am officially sick. I don't get sick like this very often, but it has come upon me, and what do you know, but life still demands my attention?! I couldn't call off my job. I still had to make sure my children were fed, bathed, and safe. I still mowed my grass. I still washed dishes, cleaned the refrigerator... who spilled that drink?!, cleaned the microwave, my bathroom, did a 1/2 days worth of homeschooling, and oh, even my jaws ache! Maybe that is from talking too much or from chewing that gum. Around my eyes hurt... but, life must go on... I am on active duty... I have to be... MY HUSBAND ACCIDENTALLY ATE SOMETHING WITH CHICKEN MEAT TODAY!!! It happened at work, so I didn't get to read the ingredients before he ate it. (In case you don't know, my hubby is highly allergic to poultry!!! Has been since he was a child!) The Salisbury steaks we usually buy do not have chicken meat, but some do... we have to ask about meats and stuff even at restaurants! Anyway, he took some anti-histamine, and you know what that can do to a person... knocked him out... so no church for us tonight... and, I, sick mommy, am on active duty still.
I even slept part of the night sitting up so I could breathe better. Blaaa! At least I am not vomiting and stuff (yet).
My aunt had a one-way bypass today... still waiting to see how she is doing. I would rather have my sickness than hers! Please, keep praying for her recovery.
I even slept part of the night sitting up so I could breathe better. Blaaa! At least I am not vomiting and stuff (yet).
My aunt had a one-way bypass today... still waiting to see how she is doing. I would rather have my sickness than hers! Please, keep praying for her recovery.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Sorry if you missed it!
The Lord really helped Ron preach tonight. Ron doesn't preach real often, since he is not the pastor... but, he preached tonight with gusto! I loved it! Of course, I am a bit prejudice toward him, I guess. I like to hear him do what he felt called to do years ago... preach!
On another thought:
Yes, my friends, I have gotten swept into the herb, vitamin, and natural-healing ideas somewhat. I actually tried to convince Ron tonight that if he doesn't want to do the transplant, maybe he should let me "treat" him with the things I have been studying about. He actually listened and acted as though he might consider it if he decides not to do the transplant. What does he have to loose? Okay, you can laugh at me now, but hey, can you blame me? Here I am trying to detoxify my body with these herbs and stuff and sitting here thinking of them pumping all this toxic stuff into my husband's precious body... he has been through so much of this stuff before, and when is it enough? He may still do the transplant, and I will support him if that is what he decides... but, it was a thought that just maybe there is another way. If you tell Ron that I wrote this on my blog, he is probably going to be embarrassed... but, there is no telling what I will write when it is nearly 12am, and I have heartburn from the veggie soup (tomato juice doesn't settle well with me at night, and I also drank cranberry juice... I was really asking for it!)
Yet another thought"
Three little children stayed after Children's Church this morning to pray for Jesus to come in their heart... what an honor to lead them in prayer! Have I ever mentioned how I love to teach Children's Church?! It is exhausting, but sooo rewarding!
On another thought:
Yes, my friends, I have gotten swept into the herb, vitamin, and natural-healing ideas somewhat. I actually tried to convince Ron tonight that if he doesn't want to do the transplant, maybe he should let me "treat" him with the things I have been studying about. He actually listened and acted as though he might consider it if he decides not to do the transplant. What does he have to loose? Okay, you can laugh at me now, but hey, can you blame me? Here I am trying to detoxify my body with these herbs and stuff and sitting here thinking of them pumping all this toxic stuff into my husband's precious body... he has been through so much of this stuff before, and when is it enough? He may still do the transplant, and I will support him if that is what he decides... but, it was a thought that just maybe there is another way. If you tell Ron that I wrote this on my blog, he is probably going to be embarrassed... but, there is no telling what I will write when it is nearly 12am, and I have heartburn from the veggie soup (tomato juice doesn't settle well with me at night, and I also drank cranberry juice... I was really asking for it!)
Yet another thought"
Three little children stayed after Children's Church this morning to pray for Jesus to come in their heart... what an honor to lead them in prayer! Have I ever mentioned how I love to teach Children's Church?! It is exhausting, but sooo rewarding!
Hold on to your seats...
We are doing serious thinking and are praying about this transplant, chemo, and radiation thing. Ron is not certain it is what he wants to do. It feels a little like a gamble... you throw the dice and you either live or die or die slowly with this thing, and it is about as clear as mud to us. Right now, no for sure cancer is showing up on the last two PET scans, Ron is extremely active... he works, ministers, helps me and others, and enjoys his children and family. This thing could ruin all that for him for a long time or kill him. We know what the doctor said about it being the only way to cure him... but, does it make it the best choice?! Ron wants to know what I think... I just don't know either... but, I told him that whatever he chooses, I will support him in that choice. Ron is a wise man, and he likes to think things through very carefully.
Please, pray that we will have wisdom and clarity in this.
I will plan to let you know what his choice is in the future. I wanted to let you know what was going on here so you are not totally shocked if we say that he decided not to go through with it. I know that this might upset some folk, but if you have never walked in this path, it will be hard for you to understand. He might still go through with it... but, we are just not sure right now... we know of others who have refused this because of its harshness. I can't blame him for doubting the wisdom in all this. It is a roller-coaster ride that we have been on and I am weary.
Please, pray that we will have wisdom and clarity in this.
I will plan to let you know what his choice is in the future. I wanted to let you know what was going on here so you are not totally shocked if we say that he decided not to go through with it. I know that this might upset some folk, but if you have never walked in this path, it will be hard for you to understand. He might still go through with it... but, we are just not sure right now... we know of others who have refused this because of its harshness. I can't blame him for doubting the wisdom in all this. It is a roller-coaster ride that we have been on and I am weary.
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