Patty's Journey

Home Now

2009-03-11T13:59:00.003-04:00

The doc came in not much longer after my last post. He said Patty could stay another night or come home. She opted to come home. I agreed. We left about 11:30 and came straight home. I've got her propped up on the couch so she can sit up a little bit while resting. Kids come home around 3. Let the games begin!

Morning Update

2009-03-11T09:00:00.002-04:00

Patty had a decent night. We were up at 2, 4, and 6 for her to use the restroom or have some meds. The doc has yet to show which means he probably will not come to release her until after his office hours are over. Patty was supposed to have an appointment at 10 in his office but that was before we knew she would spend the night. She seems to be doing a little better than last time but last time she was under for two surgical procedures instead of one and of course only had one surgical procedure this time.

Out of Surgery

2009-03-10T17:59:00.002-04:00

Patty is out of surgery and is in the recovery room. They said she may be there for 45 minutes. The doc said that it appeared everything went well. It took a little longer than I expected. I'm still sitting in the surgery lounge. Just me and one other family. I've had a few visitors to keep me company. Jody Hudson, Janine Mingie, Melissa Clark, and Patty's sister, Becky, all came by and stayed a while. It definitely makes the time go by faster.

Surgery Update

2009-03-10T17:16:00.003-04:00

Just got a call that things are going well and they should finish up in about 30 minutes. She will be spending the night in the hospital at St. Mary's North. The hard part, recovery, now begins!

Phase Two Begins

2009-03-10T15:31:00.002-04:00

Patty just went back to Surgery for the beginning of Phase 2, reconstruction of the left side. They had a hard time finding a vein to start the IV getting it finally on the 10th time. They state the surgery should take 1.5 to 2.5 hours. We were supposed to start at 3 but they called us and told us to come in an hour later, 2p instead of 1p. They fast tracked her once she got her and took her back at about 3:28 p.m. I'll try to update as updates come in. Any prayers welcome.

Saturday Update

2009-01-31T18:45:00.002-05:00

Well we're one week post surgery. Patty is doing better today. Thursday night was pretty rough and not much sleep. She woke up at 1 and 4 in significant pain. Yesterday got better as the day went on and today has been even better. Hopefully the trend will continue. She still has the drain until at least next Thursday :(. They will also start filling the expander which stretches her skin for the implants. That will probably be a little painful as well. She will have to have them filled every week or two I believe. Thanks for the many prayers.

Update

2009-01-27T19:42:00.000-05:00

Sorry for the lack of recent updates. I haven't had time to post an update. I've been wore out trying to help Patty, work from home, and play Mr. Mom.

Patty had a setback day on Tuesday. I was starting to get worried about her. She couldn't sleep or rest all day and was absolutely miserable. Wednesday she slept all day almost. Today she has finally looked and acted better. I took her to the doctor today and he said the reconstruction looked good and removed one of the drains. The other will most likely remain for another week. She wasn't too excited about that. Hopefully tomorrow she will continue to improve.

Monday Morning

2009-01-26T10:06:00.002-05:00

Patty is doing ok. She is still having trouble finding a comfortable position to rest in so she is constantly up and down. Her stomach feels a little better this morning but the drains are still giving her a hard time. She basically has a scar that goes from mid-back under arm to mid front, i.e. halfway around her body. She had to sleep on the couch again as she couldn't handle the bed. Maybe tonight will be better.

Sunday Morning Update

2009-01-25T10:23:00.003-05:00

Last night was pretty uneventful. Patty slept better even if on the couch, her choice by the way, and was just up a once that I remember. She is still is really sore all over and in a lot of pain. It seems to come in phases. We got up around 7 and she took some meds and did a few laps around the inside of the house to help prevent any potential blood clots. She's been doing this ever time she gets up for something.

The kids will probably be coming home today so it will be "game on" at that point. Trying to keep them off of her is going to be the challenge!

Home Now

2009-01-24T15:58:00.002-05:00

We're home now and Patty is resting. She has had a few episodes of pain of which she's taken some pain medicine to try to help. She has two drains that she'll have for about a week that are a real pain for her. I'm trying to keep her active as she runs an increased risk of developing a blood clot from having two surgeries one of them being in the pelivs.

Going Home Today

2009-01-24T11:34:00.002-05:00

Well, surprisingly it looks like we'll be going home today. The plastic surgeon came in and said everything looks as planned. He wants Patty to take a shower here so the nurses can show her how to replace the bandages. It appears she is going to have to take it easy for at least 10-14 days.

Morning Update

2009-01-24T09:44:00.002-05:00

Patty was up several times throughout the night because she is so uncomfortable in the bed. She would rest for about an hour and a half and then have to sit up in a chair which would then last for the same duration and then she would get back in the bed. She is doing a little better this morning.

The GYN doc came in and thought she was doing well and so they were going to pull her catheter and disconnect her from the IV fluids. We're still waiting on the plastic surgeon to come in and see her. She is still having considerable pain from this part requiring some heavy pain meds.

Thanks for all the prayers.

Latest Update

2009-01-23T18:48:00.002-05:00

Patty woke up and her back was hurting her pretty bad so we worked her into a position where she could sit up. I then got her to stand up and walk to the end of the bed but then she started getting nauseous so sat back down and then got back up into the bed. She is really having an issue with the bed and her back because she can't really use her right arm to push down to move and get settled. She's resting now and hopefully she will drift off.

In Room

2009-01-23T14:23:00.003-05:00

We made it up to the room at about 1:30. She is still pretty much out of it. She looks a little pale but everything seems well at this point. Evidently she had some nausea in the recovery room but seems to be abated right now. The only thing she has said is "Sore". Yea, I bet! She's been cut and stitched from on the front, back, and inside from neck to pelvis. Pray that she doesn't develop any blood clots and the muscle spasms are not bad nor the pain. I'll keep you updated as we go.

Surgery Complete

2009-01-23T12:31:00.003-05:00

Patty is out of surgery and in recovery. I'm still in the lobby and haven't seen her yet. Hopefully, I will get to go back soon. The docs said that everything appeared to go well. Now the "real" fun begins!

First Part Done

2009-01-23T10:43:00.003-05:00

The first part of Patty's surgery is done and they are moving on to the reconstruction. They finished the first part a little after 10. The physician said that it went well and was pretty routine. Evidently she had a large cyst on one of her ovaries but that it looked normal. Hopefully, they will finish around 12.

The Journey Continues...

2009-01-23T08:00:00.002-05:00

Well here we are again sitting in the surgery lounge. Patty is having a hysterectomy today and the first part of her reconstruction. The hysterectomy is to help improve her chances at staying disease free. Her original cancer was estrogen positive which means estrogen fuels its growth. Thus by removing estrogen from her body by the hysterectomy there will not be any fuel for this type of tumor. The reconstruction speaks for itself.

We got here at St. Mary's North at 5:35 a.m. They started surgery at 8:00. From what the docs say it will take anywhere from 4-6 hours. I'm sitting in the surgery lounge on the 2nd floor waiting it out. You can email me at swarwick@mercy.com if you have any questions. Please be lifting Patty up in prayer!

We're Still Here!

2008-10-20T09:01:00.003-04:00

I want to apologize to all of you who have faithfully visited the site for updates on Patty and our family. Not posting is a good thing because that means that for the most part things are going well. Not posting also is a bad thing because it means I don't have the time to post. I love to write but this year my work has zapped every ounce of energy outside my allotment for my family that I have thus I can't find the time or energy to post.

It's been an exciting summer. We've been camping 5 times anywhere from Maggie Valley to Grandfather Mountain. We went to Disney World in early June. A belated gift for Patty that I had wanted to give her in December when she finished completely all of her treatments. Grant started kindergarten this year so we now have 3 in school and Patty just has Brett at home.

It looks like Patty is going to have a couple of follow-up surgeries this fall or winter. We're not sure yet when it will happen as we're waiting on some insurance issues. She is still have moderate issues with her lymphedema and her feet are really painful when she gets up from sitting or lying down. Both side effects from the breast cancer treatments.

I'm hoping to return to Haiti the week after Thanksgiving to serve at the girls orphanage our church now takes care of.

I hope to be posting more in the coming weeks and months.

God Bless

Still Here!

2008-04-04T09:13:00.003-04:00

We're all still here and Patty is doing ok. I haven't updated much as of late due to the increase in work demands. Since the merger of our health system with another my workload has about doubled but I still only have x amount of hours in the day to devote to it.

Patty went to the Thyroid doctor lately and everything seemed ok on that front. She still has the elbow pain which is most likely tendinitis. Her recent heart scan was ok as well. Her white count was a little low on her last visit so she is going to have to have that checked again soon I believe. The lymphedema is still there but in check for the most part.

Katie, our oldest, is getting Baptized this coming Sunday. It is really exciting and comforting to know that she is saved and wants to do this. Below is a recent pic of Patty and Katie for all of you who are still here reading! Oh, yea, Katie has had all of her hair cut off at her own request. Almost a foot!

Latest Update

2008-03-08T16:57:00.003-05:00

I apologize again for the lack of updates. I guess its a sign we're reaching a mild form on normalcy if that is possible with 4 kids.

Patty's elbow is still bothering her. She'll probably have another bone scan in the next month or two to see if there is anything going on there. She had a B-12 shot on Thursday which has kept her blood counts high since her chemo finished. She has a MUGA scan scheduled for next week to check to see if all the chemo has had any lasting effect on her heart. She also has an ultrasound of her thyroid scheduled next week as well to make sure her thyroid is functioning as it should. Monday will be 19 months since this whole ordeal started. Seems like a lifetime. Please pray that her tests will be negative and that her elbow pain will improve.

Elbow

2008-02-18T22:36:00.003-05:00

Patty's elbow x-ray was normal but the pain persists. It most likely is some type of muscle or tendon issue.

We took a retreat this weekend with my cousin and his wife. This required us to spread the kids out among three close friends of ours. It was a great time except for the fact that it went by way too quickly.

With Patty's lymphedema appearing to be under control we'll probably start to look into her reconstruction options.

Check Up Today

2008-02-07T09:45:00.000-05:00

Patty has a check up today with her Medical Oncologist (chemo doctor). She has been having a quite a bit of pain in her elbow of which I'm sure he is going to want to do tests on to see what is going on. It could be related to the lymphedema or something else. I will let you know after the check up. Until then pray that her elbow pain will improve. Outside of that she has been feeling pretty good and her hand and arm have had some improvement.

Haiti - Day 1 - Leaving the Airport

2008-02-05T23:54:00.001-05:00

Once we exited the airport doors I immediately knew that we were indeed in a 3rd world country. People everywhere grabbing at our luggage, shouting, disagreeing. Since I had never experienced an environment where people were shouting in a language I couldn't understand, it was a little disconcerting. I became further concerned when a guy grabbed the cart of luggage I was pushing that had my carry-on on it. I think he was just trying to get us out of there but at this point my trust level was running a little low. Finally, they got us to an area where our transportation was and begin loading our luggage into the truck. Confusion still reigned as we waited for Bryan and Pastor Juste's people to tell who was riding in which vehicle. Some were on the back of the luggage truck, some in a van (referrred to as the MiniBus), some in a SUV, and me, Mark Johnston, and Luke the missionary in a very small SUV pulling up the rear.

As we exited the airport lot it was now dark and I noticed two things, no lights and people freakin' everywhere! Truly, I'm not sure I can accurately describe it. Ladies walking with huge baskets on their heads, rubble everywhere, trucks (called tap-taps) were packed like sardines with people packed in the back some hanging off with one arm. They would be known as taxis in our world. Although nothing like we've every seen. Many of them are unbelievably decorated in colorful pictograms, flashing lights, and images from Jesus to women posing on Mercedes.

The car horn appears to be the Haiti national anthem as it is used early and often. There are seemingly no driving laws as its every man for himself. People are sitting out in the front of their shanties or business by candlelight selling what appears to be some type of fried meat. It looks like its been there a while. Huge vats of what appeared to be chicken or pork. My recurring thought was I hope the car doesn't stop.

Luke, a full-time missionary in Haiti had joined us at the airport for the trip and he was sitting in the back in between me and Mark Johnston. Our driver Rico is Pastor Juste's son. Our front seat passenger, thankfully, is a full blown member of the Haiti Elite National Police. He was decked out with your usual assortment of grenades, hand guns, and automatic rifles. I was very thankful he was riding in our car especially once the car did stop. He would get out and people would move out of the way and immediately the traffic would clear.

(to be continued in the next post)

The Latest

2008-01-27T17:55:00.000-05:00

Patty went for her last arm treatment and then put the new sleeve and glove. It doesn't look too bad. The glove has actually helped with her fingers but her hand is still a little swollen. Her elbow is still sore and weak as well. We're not really sure what is going on with this but it has been going on for a while. I think when she goes back to the doctor in February they will maybe do a bone scan to make sure nothing is going on.

Meanwhile, the girls are selling girl scout cookies until this Thursday. If you want to buy any just send us an email and we'll get them to you when they come in. They're $3.50/box.

Bella is growing bigger and bigger and is still nipping at the kids' feet driving them crazy.

Quick Update

2008-01-16T08:30:00.000-05:00

Sorry I haven't posted in over two weeks. Work, dealing with my dad's estate issues, more work, church, and family life I've been exhausted. I'm now responsible for 6 cancer centers throughout East Tennessee and before I had two. I'm trying learn as much as I can but that is taking time.

Meanwhile, Patty's treatments have done well except for her fingers. They have finally fitted her for a sleeve and we'll see how that goes when it comes in . She has about had it with the compression bandages. You know her she goes non-stop no matter what and she has been on a "Spring Cleaning" binge since Christmas. I'm praying for that to end ;).

I plan on continuing the Haiti journal as soon as I get some time to type it out. So keep checking!

Last Cancer Treatment

2007-12-26T23:30:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow is Patty's last scheduled treatment for the breast cancer diagnosis she received on August 9, 2006. 1 Year, 4 months, and 18 days ago. To steal a phrase from a not so favorite president of mine, FDR, "...a day that will live in infamy." She will still continue receiving treatments for her arm but these are not technically treatments for cancer rather treatments for the side effects of the surgery.

Patty is in remission or as we say in the medical field NED (No Evidence of Disease). No one is officially cured of cancer, you either have it or are NED. We continue to pray that she will remain NED until she dies of something else at least at the age of her grandmother Bessie who turned 90 on Dec. 7. This has been a long road to travel and Patty and I are both praying for some green pasture. We need it.

Christmas has been a blur. The first few hours of Christmas morning were great spending time with the kids. It went downhill after that as I begin to drown in the excess of it as it all added up. It was a conflicting day for me. I thought of my friends in Haiti who it was most likely just another day trying to survive. I thought back to simpler times in America as I heard Patty's grandmother describe her Christmas's to me as a little girl in the 1920's where they got only a few pieces of fruit in their stocking. The only time they got fruit. And lastly, I longed for a more fulfilling Christmas like the one in an 1850 Christmas short story by Harriet Beecher Stowe I read before my grieving soul rested for the night.

A young lady complained about how she gave Christmas gifts to her friends and family that weren't really needed and was done more out of tradition then need and how she longed to give gifts that were truly embraced and needed. Her aunt told her of many people, mostly poor, who had needs and that gifts for those needs would be truly embraced. The young lady took this advice and begin to act upon it. This desire to fill real needs is my prayer for myself and for each of you for next Christmas. As Jesus said 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' May we all follow his wise advice.

God Bless.

Inspirational Verse of the Day

2007-12-21T11:02:00.000-05:00

"He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted." Job 5:9

Haiti - Day 1 - Travel Day

2007-12-18T10:35:00.000-05:00

I have different sections of each day so I'll post a section at a time. I've also added in some thoughts here and there in parentheses to expand on what I had written at the time. I hope this gives you a better viewpoint of our experience in Haiti.

Day 1 - Travel Day

Leaving US, Arriving Ayiti (Haiti)
We left the church house @ 3:45 a.m. and headed to the airport. Scott Sparks drove the church van and the attached trailer. He looked like he hadn't been up at 3:45 a.m. in a long time, lol... We didn't have heat until Brian Lloyd broke out some type of pliers to turn the control over to warm. I should have known that this was a precursor of things to come from him in Haiti. At the airport we loaded up 26 people, 52 LARGE checked bags, and just as many carry-ons onto the plane. From there to Dallas, from Dallas to Miami (whose airport has a lot to live for), from Miami to Port-Au-Prince. I should have known when the plane took a tight 180 degree turn for landing and then landed hard and fast it would be an omen for the next few hours. We deboarded and headed for immigration where I met a missionary couple from Canada who was staying for three weeks.

(At the time, I thought I wish I could stay that long but I remembered that thought on the back of a covered open air truck for the ride back to the airport to head home and cringed at the thought of staying two more weeks. I couldn't do it emotionally. I was spent. Little did I know that my dad was going to die this day and the emotional rollercoster was waiting to take me for a few more rides against my will.)

Once through immigration we began gathering our bags. Unbelievably, all 52 made it. Unfortunately, one of the ladies in our group left her carry-on bag on the plane and the airport personnel would not allow her to retrieve it. She had a mild panic attack that was ultimately soothed by the bag's return through our persistent efforts. Strangely enough, while we were gathering bags, hunting bags, begging for a carry-on bag the few people that were left and the airport workers, in cognizant to us, stared at televisions in the baggage claim area at some soccer game being played in a far off land. It wasn't much different than if the NFL was on at an airport in the US.

Next: Leaving the Airport

Still Recovering

2007-12-17T09:07:00.000-05:00

What a two week period. If there is a list of troubled emotions I think I've felt them all over the last two weeks. Enough about me.

Patty is continuing to receive treatments for her arm three times a week. There has been some improvement which is a good sign. She keeps wanting to take the wraps off, she tends to be a non-compliant patient sometimes, but I reiterate to her that if she wants it to get better she has to keep it on.

She has two Herceptin treatments left. After these all of her treatments for the cancer are complete. Almost a year and a half. Combine this with my dad and its been an extremely tough period. We feel like we've worn everybody out with all the child care we've had to have for all of Patty's appointments. Unfortunately, this continues with the appointments for her arm. It may seem trivial but this is one of the things that grieves us is to have to continually ask for help. What makes it worse is we have four to care for! I digress.

I'm contemplating posting my journal entries from Haiti here if anyone is interested. Let me know.

Please continue to pray for Patty's arm, her mental health, and our family as a whole.

Brief Update

2007-12-09T16:07:00.000-05:00

I made it back from Haiti late Friday night. We found my dad dead at home on Saturday. After that trip and this I'm emotionally bankrupt. Keep up the prayers.

3 Days Away

2007-11-28T12:00:00.001-05:00

Three days from now I will be on a plane traveling to the mountains of the island nation of Haiti to serve and love on some of the poorest children in the world. Click HERE for a small snapshot of what we're serving. Some of have asked why?, there is plenty people that have needs here. The best answer I have heard is that there are plenty of people to help here, but there is no one to help down there. For me, our church has went twice before and each time they returned the Holy Spirit spoke to me that I should have went. Plus, everyone that has went has said its a humbling life changing experience. I want some of that. This week the enemy have been in full attack mode in attempting to keep me here. Let's hope he doesn't prevail.

Why Haiti? Among the many things they don't have, such as electricity or even a simple mirror to know what they look like, hope is one of the most lacking. As the Proverb says, "Hope deferred makes the heart sick" Myself and 25 others are going to hopefully "treat" their hearts by acting as the hands and feet of Jesus Christ. Part of that is by clothing, feeding, and teaching them. By us just being their they believe that God is blessing them.

Please pray for me and more importantly Patty as she has graciously allowed me to go despite having 4 children, daily treatments for her arm, and the stress and frustration that develops from both of those issues. Her and Katie will be traveling on Friday to North Carolina on Friday to perform the interpretive dance they did last year to the song "I Am" at her Aunt's Christmas tea. They will be traveling back on Sunday. Pray for her safe passage as well.

Her arm has stabilized under treatment and hopefully will begin to improve. Please pray for continued healing both physically and mentally for her with this and all other health issues. Also Grant is giving us a time. This is our first 4 year old boy and he is all boy. Pray for his obedience and our patience, lol...

This will probably be my last post before I return...Thanks to all of you who pray, help, or offer a kind word.

The Hits Keep a' Coming!

2007-11-20T12:27:00.000-05:00

Patty's visit didn't go well. She received news she didn't want to hear. Basically, they bandaged her arm up to where she can hardly move it. She has to wear it like this for 4 weeks. After that she has to wear a compression glove and sleeve for the rest of her life. Additionally, she has to wrap her arm with bandages every night for the rest of her life and basically have limited use of this arm for the rest of her life. Looking at the situation you think 'ok, I can handle this if I just have to worry about myself but, when you have 4 kids under the age of 9 to care for it becomes quickly overwhelming.

I always thought due to Patty's mom having breast cancer in her 40's that she might have a chance of having it. But, I never ever imagined the scenario we're in. I thought since she was proactive in monitoring herself and getting mammograms and biopsies of anything suspicious if she did get it she would be in her 40's, the kids would more self sufficient, and it would be the earliest stage you could find and the treatments would be relatively benign. This scenario we find ourselves in is unbelievable. In her 30's, 4 small kids, lymph nodes, masectomies, chemo, herceptin, radiation, thyroid issues, tamoxifen, lymphedema, who knows what's next. This is in addition to the normal things that make daily life difficult like other family sickness, finances, obligations, appointments, 4 kid's activities, I could go on and on but basically you get the picture.

I think the devastating blow is that you hope to be done with the year and a half of cancer and its treatments only to discover the effects of it and its treatments are going to be a constant reminder, hindrance, and minute to minute frustration to the end of your days. The Proverb "Hope deferred makes the heart sick" is definitely true, ...definitely true. I think Patty and I feel like we're in a vice that keeps getting squeezed tighter. Sometimes I think if we "could" give up we would.

I've always been intrigued by patients in my experiences that didn't exhibit any "hope" despite good chances for cures. Now, I have a better idea why they may not have it. I've learned a lot from the patient side that will allow me to serve our patients better. The funny thing is I'm starting to wonder if I want to stay in it. I'm tired of cancer and its devastation. My life is Cancer. My family, my job, my thoughts.

What A Day

2007-11-20T10:42:00.000-05:00

Wow. Yesterday was uhhhhh...trying. When I got home from work I discovered Patty had accidentally wrecked the van, Brett has pink eye in BOTH eyes, I needed to pick up all the Girl Scout nuts for delivery, Grant throws up in the van, and Kendall is saying her ear is really hurting. Oh yea, I led our Community Bible Study group in between. What a day!

Patty's appointment was just for measurements and teaching on exercises. She goes this morning for the therapy part of it. Pray it will begin to begin to help.

The Latest

2007-11-19T11:17:00.000-05:00

Patty's arm has steadily worsened. It is also very painful for her as of late. Of course, she has been pushing herself to the max. The Christmas Tea that she hosts annually for the church was this past Saturday. There were over 225 women in attendance. This year it was a fundraiser for our Haiti mission trip which I'll explain in another post. It looks like over 3k was raised. The work she puts into this I'm sure is a contributor of it getting worse.

Thankfully, she has an appointment with a Lymphedema Therapist today at 5. That being said, I'm requesting for supernatural healing as directed in John 14:14, "You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it." You can do the same!

We still struggling with the new dog name. These are the front runners.

Bella

Maggie

Presley

Vote for your choice!

Cancer Island

2007-11-07T09:30:00.001-05:00

A reader of the blog that I've had the pleasure of exchanging emails with shared the following with me a few days ago and it rang so true for me I thought I would share it with everyone. The writer is another husband whose wife has faced breast cancer over the last year and he is writing in reference to my comments in another post about watching other's lives carrying on as normal while we're struggling to stay above water.

"We have called this being stranded on "Cancer Island ". I heard an interview from a cancer patient and he characterized it as living in a parallel universe in which those dealing with cancer can cross over to the world of their friends, but their friends can not cross into the cancer world. I thought that was a good way to describe it. I would add to this another dimension in which caregivers reside, hanging somewhere between the two. I think, at times, this can be the most lonely place to be."

Amen brother, Amen. This is the most short and concise description of how I, and we, feel that I've ever read.

I think the writer makes an astute observation in his last two sentences in the paragraph about caregivers. Don't take me wrong, I'm not groveling for more attention but, in the last few years studies have been conducted on caregivers of cancer patients and the results are eye opening concerning the physical and mental health of this population. Which brings up a point that I've mentioned before. Cancer doesn't just affect the individual family member, but the whole family as well. Including the physical and mental health of the family.

Arm Update

2007-11-06T10:48:00.000-05:00

Patty saw an orthopedic surgeon yesterday to determine if the issues with her arm might be related to carpal tunnel syndrome. He was under the impression that it wasn't and that it was indeed lymphedema. We're trying to get her in to see somebody as soon as possible because with this problem you want to get treatment before it worsens. Unfortunately, our insurance provided treatment location has a several week delay so we're exploring other alternatives.

To counterbalance all the negativism in the air, I finally succumbed to the "Getting A Dog" barrage that I have been inflicted with for several months now. Its been tough but they've wore me down. I've been mentally tortured to bring me to this humble position so I digress.

If you remember, our last dog Chrissy had to be put to sleep not long after Patty's surgery. We drove out to Maryville on Sunday to look at a couple of West Highland White Terriers that were almost ready to be taken home. The place was a beautiful small farm (I'll confess, I was coveting) where the kids got to play with the pups in the grass. And by the way kids includes Patty. Although, the boys were more interested in an old toy pedal tractor and the wide expanse to drive it, push it, or fight over it than the dogs. Patty and Kendall decided on the girl and so we put a deposit down and will pick her up either this weekend or next whenever she's ready.

We're taking suggestions on names so post anything clever in the comments. Her dad's name is Elvis and the mother is Priscella. So that should give you a head start

Arm Scan

2007-10-29T15:03:00.000-04:00

Patty is having another scan today to assure she doesn't have a blood clot in her arm or axilla. The pain has continued so I encouraged her to call today and have it checked out further. Lymphedema is not usually painful so I wasn't comfortable for her to wait until Thursday when she sees her Oncologist.

She's noticeably discouraged by this latest development. Pray that the Lord will grant her encouragement.

On the lighter side, I took Grant and Brett for a haircut last Wednesday night. Thursday Grant decided it wasn't short enough. So he grabs my hair clippers and commences to give himself a reverse mohawk and to trim up Brett's sideburns. Patty called me at work and by her tone of voice I thought he had either busted the TV, broke a mirror, or blew up the computer. When I finally coaxed her into telling me what he did before I got home I actually had a sigh of relief it was just his hair. She wasn't as agreeable. What does he look like now? Well, let's say his cut resembles mine. Haven't seen mine? Its a #1 guard, as low as you can get with a guard. It actually looks good on him now and he's getting more attention as everyone wants to rub it!

150th Post

2007-10-26T10:25:00.000-04:00

This makes the 150th post to this blog. Is this a favorable milestone? I think not, especially since I've got not so favorable news to report.

Patty's arm is still bothering her and she has now noticed some swelling in her hand which most likely is lymphedema. Not a good thing. She's is deservedly upset about this as it is just one more thing to have to deal with. We thought that she had eclipsed the period for this to occur but evidently not. She goes to see a specialist next week.

Its just like the hits just keep coming. I could expound on this but probably shouldn't.

We're tired.

Not just physically but mentally as well. I think we have kept clamoring and hoping to return to some semblance of what we once were. The further out we get and the continued issues now have me thinking it isn't going to happen. It's hard to describe but, not only does this effect your physical health but your immediate family, marital relationship, work performance, friends, hope, outlook, well...I could go on and on, basically everything everyday. Its even more difficult to see all your friends and acquaintances carrying on with everyday life and the normal issues you deal with. Truly, I can't describe in print the effect it has on everything. Words can't describe the despair it weighs upon you. I know it could be worse.

Pray for the Lord to extend his mercy and to heal this issue with Patty's arm and to grant us resilience and hope .

Update

2007-10-18T09:31:00.001-04:00

Just wanting to drop an update for everyone.

Patty is doing well. She is still receiving her Herceptin infusions weekly. This will continue through December. She still has odd aches and pains that consistently bring concern but that is something that we will have to consistently persevere through. Right now her right arm is bothering her. Its not swollen but feels like there is a tight cord running down her arm. This is often called Fascial Cording. Click HERE for a description. Hopefully we can get her a physical therapy consult which some say helps with this problem.

We're traversing off to Pigeon Forge for a short camping trip during the kids Fall Break. We're looking forward to getting away. Although, you never get away from thoughts and issues related to cancer as your mind travels with you.

This is a note for SP, a faithful reader and friend.

Thank you so much for your encouraging letter. Your faithfulness throughout the years has meant so much to Patty, myself, and the kids. We would love for you to come visit with us and the kids. Feel free to give us a call.

Test Update

2007-09-26T23:09:00.000-04:00

The preliminary results from Patty's bone scan today did not show any evidence of cancer. The Lord is Good. Many thanks to all of you who prayed on our behalf.

Patty Having Scan Today

2007-09-26T11:03:00.000-04:00

Patty has been having some back pain lately and has been concerned about it. She saw the doctor today and he suggested a bone scan to check it out. She is having it right now. I'd like to ask everyone to pray that the scan would be normal.

Negative!

2007-09-11T16:47:00.000-04:00

God is faithful. Patty's thyroid biopsy came back negative. I have no other details but that was good enough for me. Hopefully, this will bring down the stress level from DefCon 2 down to 3.

Thyroid Nodule Update

2007-09-07T13:39:00.000-04:00

Patty's thyroid nodule hadn't grown any but it hadn't shrunk either so the doctor wanted to biopsy it. It didn't look like too much fun from my spot in the chair beside the exam table. Of course, I can't ever think of a time that having a needle stuck in your neck 5 or more times would be. Patty is a trooper, I don't know how she does it. I'd be under the exam table or in it.

We won't know until Tuesday or Wednesday what the results are. On ultrasound they couldn't tell if it was actually thyroid or not. They didn't think it was thyroid or breast cancer but you never know until you see the slides. Our prayer request is that all the slides come back normal.

Thyroid Appointment on Friday

2007-09-05T09:05:00.000-04:00

Did anybody watch the Crazy Sexy Cancer documentary? Kris, the subject of the story, is a little rough around the edges but it was amazing to me to see someone facing such a life changing illness with hope, enthusiasm, and a overwhelming zest for life. I loved her thought process when searching for a doctor to treat her diagnosis. If you didn't see it basically she was interviewing them for her new company, "Saving my A#% Technologies" I didn't care for her choice of words but it was funny to say the least. How she could find humor in such disheartening task is inspiring. If you get a chance to watch it I highly recommend it.

Patty's return visit to the thyroid doctor is Friday at 8. They will do an ultrasound to check the nodule for any changes in size. Hopefully, it has shrunk. If not, then they will have to biopsy it. Please pray that it will have shrunk so that Patty won't have to get stuck one more time. I have faith that it will go well. I also believe in intercessory prayer as well so please pray for her.

Long Time No Post

2007-08-27T09:50:00.001-04:00

Sorry for the dearth of posts. Everyday life as of late has crowded my journalistic time allotments. But, that 's a good thing I guess.

Anyway, I read about something a month ago and again today and thought it was definitely worth passing on. The following links tell a story about a girl with an unbelievable spirit despite the trial of life she is facing. Diagnosed with a extremely rare type of cancer of which there is not much data or research on, she has faced it down and totally embraced the meaning of the word "survivor". Her documentary of which you can see a trailer HERE is going to be on TLC (the learning channel) Wednesday night at 9.

Read her unbelievable spirit and zest for life HERE at her own blog. This girl is truly amazing.

Blood Count &Thyroid Visit Update

2007-08-10T17:30:00.000-04:00

We got great news concerning Patty's blood counts on Thursday. There were all normal with the white count back up to 4.7! Hallelujah. Normal is 4 to 11. Patty and I went for her appointment with the thyroid doctor today. It was interesting. I'm in the medical field and I was finding his description of what might be going on hard to follow. In the end, he said that her thyroid levels indicated that she had hyperthyroidism. But, he suspected that she has what he called "Silent Thyroiditis" and that this would probably go away. Indeed he called later today and said that her thyroid levels were normal. He thinks that when she had the thyroid function test that maybe she already had some iodine in her system that prevented uptake in the thyroid.

As for the nodule, he thinks this could have been caused by the inflammation but can't be sure thus he is going to wait 4 weeks and re-ultrasound her thyroid to see if it has shrunk. If not, then he will probably biopsy it. So for the next few weeks pray that God will shrink the nodule so Patty want have to suffer another agonizing biopsy.

One Year Today

2007-08-09T09:20:00.000-04:00

One year today, on a Wednesday morning, I received that fateful phone call at about 9 a.m. That is where this journey officially began. After 1 Surgery, 5 Chemo Treatments, 31 Herceptin Infusions, 33 Radiation Treatments, 10's of scans or tests, probably close to a 100 doctor visits, 140 blog posts, and 11,654 blog visitors, the journey is still not complete. Sometimes I wonder if it ever will be.

As I rode to the bottom of the hill we live on this morning, the sun was behind a small smattering of clouds but all the rays could be seen shining in every direction. I stopped to admire... Beautiful. I wondered if God created the sun for us as semblance of himself. Throughout history we've associated the sun with hope, light, warmth, a new beginning, growth, sustaining. All things God is to us.

Later as I realized the date and begin to reflect upon it. I remembered that vision this morning and contemplated if God did that for me. As a symbol of hope or in the least, encouragement. I think that he did.

Patty comes in today for her normal Herceptin treatment and most likely to have her blood checked. She felt as she had no energy yesterday. It could be due to her thyroid condition or because her red blood cell count is low or maybe from just being tired. Of the three, we hope that she is just tired but of the two medical conditions the thyroid would be better. In your prayers today pray that her blood counts will be normal and healthy. She goes to the thyroid doctor tomorrow of which we hope to have some guidance on that.

Endocrinologist on Friday

2007-08-07T23:32:00.000-04:00

Patty sees the Endocrinologist on Friday to hopefully get some direction on the thyroid issue. They didn't check her blood last week so there is no update on her blood levels. Pray that the visit goes well.

The Way I See It #259

2007-08-02T09:02:00.000-04:00

On my Starbucks cup the other day...

"People say, oh I could never do that! But when you meet cancer patients you understand the bravery and spirit those people show each and every day. Their struggles motivate and inspire you to test the limit of your endurance and to cross that finish line. You'll be surprised by what you can do."

John Kelleny - Eight-time marathoner and leading fundraiser with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Team in Training.

Patty has bloodwork again today. Pray that her levels improve.

Scan Update

2007-08-01T18:02:00.000-04:00

Patty's scans showed that she has a couple of thyroid nodules and that her thyroid is functioning at a low rate. What does this mean? I'm not sure. Most thyroid nodules are benign. Her thyroid not functioning should result in hyperthyroidism. She has some of the symptoms but not all. I guess we will have to wait and see what the endocrinologist say when she sees him.

Her blood counts were up to just below normal. Hopefully they will move on up tomorrow.

Scans Today

2007-07-26T08:37:00.000-04:00

Patty is having a couple of scans today on her thyroid. One is a nuclear medicine scan and the other is an ultrasound. She will also be having her blood work done as well. If you talking to the Lord this morning please mention Patty and these tests.

Busy, Busy, Busy!

2007-07-25T10:32:00.001-04:00

I apologize for the delay in posting. June and July has been extremely busy months for me and the family. The last five weekends have been action packed. It all kicked off with the Relay for Life on June 22 & 23, then the next long weekend to Student Life Camp with Katie in Ridgecrest, NC, next was July 4^th with family from out of town, my aunt’s wedding the following weekend of which Grant was the ring bearer (boy was that nerve racking), travel to Forest City, NC the next weekend to visit Patty’s family and pick up her cousin’s daughter, Jessica, who was going to stay with us for a week, and then lastly a camping trip to Maggie Valley, of which we returned on Monday. Whew!

Now for the update on Patty, her blood counts have dropped back down to below normal. Patty’s Med Onc is not sure why. Her thyroid levels have also bottomed out. Could they be related? Could it be the Herceptin? He’s just not sure. He doesn’t think the thyroid issue is related to anything with cancer. She sees the endocrinologist in August. Also she most likely can not have any reconstructive surgery until her blood counts return to normal. Otherwise besides the anxiety of these issues she feels pretty good. She definitely needs more sleep as late but that is easy to understand with what her body has been through.

Please pray that her blood counts and thyroid levels will return to normal levels and that God will continue help us get through this day by day. Thanks.

Update

2007-07-09T09:24:00.000-04:00

I apologize for the delay in posting. The last couple of weeks have been full of non-stop action so I'll do my best to get you caught up on everything.

Patty's grandmother is out of the hospital and doing better. Due to much prayer and the Lord's blessing she was spared an operation to clear the bowel obstruction she had. She is still very weak which one would expect after lying in the hospital for 5 days and getting nothing to eat. The obstruction evidently cleared on its own with the inactivity of eating. Bessie turns 90 in December.

Saturday before last, I headed out with Katie and 19 other 4-6 graders to Student Life for Kids camp at Ridgecrest Conference Center in Black Mountain, NC. This was my first experience at a "summer camp" so I was as green as the kids who had never been before as well. It was truly a great time where the kids got time to do their quiet time in the mornings, attend great Worship & Celebration events which included great skits, videos, and praise & worship times. They also got to participate in water games and other great games such as dodgeball. Unfortunately, the group leaders such as myself got to play against the camp staff. We didn't win but we held our own. I was the last guy out on our team so I didn't embarrass myself, lol...

As soon as I returned from camp on Tuesday my cousin Chuck and his wife Beth came in from Nashville to stay with us through the holiday and our Aunt's wedding on Saturday. We enjoy it anytime they come and stay. We always have a lot of fun and stay up late catching up on all of our lives. This time they brought a new game to us that is and oldie but goodie that we had never played. Dominoes! More specifically the "Mexican Train". We stayed up their last night here until 3 a.m. playing. It is a lot of fun and I sense it is going to soon be showing up at our camping events.

Saturday, my aunt Billie who is my dad's sister got married after being widowed for over 14 years. They asked Grant to be the ringbearer. You've never felt any pressure until your 4 year old son is standing in front of the whole wedding just itching to cause some kind of disaster. For that reason, that had to be the longest wedding I've ever been to. Luckily, all he managed to do was find some stick pins on the steps, pull up his jacket, swing the ring pillow round and round and then put it on his head, lay down on the steps, almost tip a plant over, crawl up the steps, make smirks and ugly faces at my attempts to get him to interpret my cleverly discreet sign language during the wedding to turn around, stand up, and be still, lol.... We still had a great time seeing extended family and friends we hadn't seen in a long time.

As life ever so swiftly progresses, these are the times that I cherish. Over the last few years there are a few things that I've observed that bring me joy. Quiet time with God, a great cup of coffee, a fresh newspaper, and extended time with family. IMHO, if a man experiences much joy from these few simple things he has been blessed. Of course, some would argue the coffee and newspaper but hey, a man needs a couple simple vices.

Now, let get to the most important thing you've been wanting to read, an update on Patty. As you'll remember her white counts had been running low. In further tests the doc discovered that her B12 level was low as well. So he decided to start her on some B12 injections and her counts last week rose to normal levels! Praise God! It also detected that her thyroid levels were extremely low which should cause her to have hyperthyroidism. She hasn't experienced many of the symptoms of this but he wants her to see a endocrinologist for review. The only symptom she has felt is fatigue and heat intolerance. According to the doc, the low thyroid levels is unrelated to her originally diagnosis or her treatments. So the new prayer request is for her thyroid levels to return to normal.

Relay for Life Update

2007-06-25T08:53:00.000-04:00

The Relay for Life was last Friday night and Saturday morning. I'm still a little tired from staying up ALL night until it was over at 7 a.m. It has been along time since I've stayed up all night and then I was a lot younger (and had different motivations as well :). Thanks to many of you the girls raised $350! Each of you who donated extended a tremendous amount of generosity and for that we give you a wholehearted THANKS! The girls were so excited and would ask me how much they had raised even up to the day of the event.

The total event as of Saturday morning had raised over $55,000. The girls came after they completed their Vacation Bible School and got to do some EuroBungy Jumping (pictures forthcoming!) After that, they played in the water fountains and then finished up with some good ol' face painting (more pictures forthcoming). And this is not your average face painting. Wait until you see the pictures.

On a less than positive note, Patty got a call from her grandmother early Saturday morning wanting me to take her to the hospital. Of course, I was at the Relay so Patty called her sister to see if she could take her. Patty should have called me anyway and I would have left but I'll have to cut her some slack because she was sound a sleep when her grandmother called. Her grandmother is 89 by the way and still drives, cleans house, etc. It turns out she has a small bowel obstruction and most likely is going to have to have surgery. Please pray for her that this will resolve on its own without surgery and while you're at it please include Patty's blood counts to continue to rise.

Patty Update and The Relay is Today!

2007-06-22T09:03:00.001-04:00

I thought I would give everyone a current update on Patty. She has been feeling generally well recently. Her latest bloodwork has showed that her white blood cell count has dropped. The norm is between 4-11. For the last two weeks hers has been 2.8 and 3.1 this week. When its this low it makes you much more susceptible for infection. The physician doesn't really have an explanation for it dropping except that she may have had a small infection that caused it to fluctuate. He is going to continue to monitor it. That being said I would like to ask each of you that are still reading to pray for her white blood cell count to return to normal levels.

The Relay for Life is tonight and we will be attending. The girls have raised $280 due to the generosity of the reader's here. Patty and I and the girls can not thank you enough for your kindness. If there is anybody on the fence about contributing the girls just need $20 to reach $300!

Many Thanks!

2007-06-13T17:48:00.000-04:00

Many thanks to those to you who have donated! Believe it or not, combined with what the girls raised selling paper dolls and cookies and what you have so graciously donated the girls have raised over $250! The girls are ranked 8th out of 23 Teams! Keep those contributions coming!

Patty is doing well so far with her new medications. Keep praying that she will not have side effects from this medicine that she will have to take for 5 years. She has her weekly infusion tomorrow and then we're off on another camping trip, whoooohooooo! We'll be back on Tuesday but we're not going far, just to Townsend to do a little tubing, fishing, and of course the kids favorite, bike riding!

Its so nice to be doing some things that feel normal again and not related to cancer. Let's pray that this continues into our old age.

One more thing. Patty heard for the first time last night the new song out by Craig Morgan called "Tough." She loved it. It speaks about a young mother who fights breast cancer and prevails. In case you haven't heard it yet its a great song. Click HERE to see the video and hear the song. Enjoy.

Asking for Your Help

2007-06-07T13:10:00.000-04:00

As you saw in one of my previous posts, Katie and Kendall took it on themselves to raise money to "help Mommy feel better." We decided that we would donate that money to the American Cancer Society's annual fundraiser "Relay for Life." So, we have created the "Katie & Kendall Team" to help raise funds for research and support the ACS gives to patients such as transportation money, support groups, and many other things.

We want to invite you help them support in the ongoing fight against cancer. Would you please consider visiting the link below to make a donation to support their efforts? The minimal amount you can donate online is $10. Their goal is to raise at least $100 or more so what ever amount you could give would be awesome. If you can't, we understand. You can easily donate by credit or debit card and do it in honor or memory of someone you know. You will make a real difference in the lives of people facing cancer – and in the lives of the people who love them.

Click HERE to donate and see their page.

Thanks a Bunch!

Kendall's Graduation & Patty Tx Update

2007-05-30T17:12:00.000-04:00

Kendall graduated from Kindergarten last night. It was a great event. A funny story was they wrote down what they wanted to be when they grow up and held it up at the end of a song they sang. Pics below.

Patty is doing ok. She starts the Tamoxifen today or tomorrow. Hello hot flash. Hopefully she'll be able to cope with it over the next five years. It is a daily pill that helps prevent a breast cancer recurrence. Symptoms are similar to menopause. When you look at all of the possible side effects it sounds kind of scary. Her axilla continues to heal. Hair continues to grow. And we continue to attempt to get back to some point of normalcy. Is that possible? I don't think so. We're going on a camping trip this Friday. Our last camping trip is when Patty discovered the lump. I hope it doesn't bring back in flashbacks.

Patty Update

2007-05-23T09:11:00.001-04:00

Patty's hair continues to grow back quickly. The problem she is not used to trying to style what appears to be an extremely short haircut. However she does it she manages to make it look good! I believe the recipe includes a lot of gel and hairspray.

Her skin under her arm is still a bit raw but it has improved greatly. She says there is a little tender spot which is interesting because she can't feel anything under her arm. Her main complaint is muscle tightness in raising her arm. I've told her she needs to exercise this to stretch those muscles.

We've got a camping trip planned for June 1st. Kendall graduates from kindergarten on March 29th. Brett is starting to talk up a storm. He has the biggest grin of any of our kids. He has become my mood elevator. Whenever I'm stressed, looking at that smile that encompasses his whole face rather than just his mouth, I can't help but feel a sense of joy.

Patty's Radiation Treatment Complete

2007-05-17T17:05:00.000-04:00

I apologize for the lack of posts over the last couple of weeks. I've been out of town for work (mostly) or play 8 out of the last 9 days.

Patty finished her radiation treatments on Monday. She has done well except for one area under her arm that the skin has broke down. It doesn't look good but she is being a trooper. Luckily, she still can't fill under her arm so it is not as painful as it looks.

We celebrated her finishing by her and the kids coming up to Cincinnati with me on a business trip this week. We went up a day early and went to the Cincinnati Zoo which was really nice. It took us six hours to "do the zoo". Brett was amazing as he walked the whole zoo all day without riding in the stroller. This boy is going to have some stamina. I wish I could say the same for Grant and Kendall. We had a great time though as a family. It almost got canceled but we persevered.

The next day the Patty and the kids hung out at the indoor pool of the hotel we stayed while I was gone to do a presentation on Cancer Services strategy. Sounds like fun doesn't it!

It looks like reconstruction is the next hurdle. So we'll be making some decisions towards that soon. Also, the big Relay for Life fundraiser is coming up of which I'm going to post a link here soon to help me in fundraising to support cancer research.

Treatment Update

2007-05-08T09:46:00.000-04:00

Patty is down to her last five treatments. She finishes her radiation treatments next Monday. After that she will continue the weekly Herceptin infusions through December. She will also soon start on a medication called Tamoxifen that she will take for five years. In simple terms, Tamoxifen is a drug that helps prevent the cancer from recurring.

The radiation treatments have gone well. One area under her arm has become real red and sore but nothing extraordinary. Her issues with the breathing and the dizziness seemed to have faded. Part of it might have been we discovered was the fact that she had starting taking my Prilosec thinking it was one of her medicines. Good grief!

Her hair continues to grow back fast and furious. She's got a ponytail already, ....just kidding. Actually its long enough where she has for the most part ditched the wig and is sporting a spiked number that looks good. She's got her some new "celebrity" sunglasses that match it well.

There are still some big decisions out there to be made. Patty seems to be pretty adamant about having reconstruction done. Truthfully, I was a little surprised at this. It is a big surgery and one that may have to be done out of state which brings up all kinds of logistical issues.

The 91st Psalm

2007-05-01T11:24:00.001-04:00

Patty says the dizziness and breathing issues seemed to be better. We haven't heard any of the results from the scans which is usually a good thing. She will return for her Herceptin infusion on Thursday of which they will probably communicate the results then.

Yesterday in my quiet time I just wanted to read a Psalm. Not any one in particular, but the number 91 just jumped into my head. After reading it I realized it wasn't just a coincidence. It was the Holy Spirit guiding me to be in the Lord's shadow. Read for yourself.

Psalm 91

(Contemporary English Version)

The LORD Is My Fortress

1 Live under the protection of God Most High and stay in the shadow of God All-Powerful.

2 Then you will say to the LORD, "You are my fortress, my place of safety, you are my God, and I trust you."

3 The Lord will keep you safe from secret traps and deadly diseases.

4 He will spread his wings over you and keep you secure. His faithfulness is like a shield or a city wall. ^[a]

5 You won't need to worry about dangers at night or arrows during the day.

6 And you won't fear diseases that strike in the dark or sudden disaster at noon.

7 You will not be harmed, though thousands fall all around you.

8 And with your own eyes you will see the punishment of the wicked.

9 The LORD Most High is your fortress. Run to him for safety,

10 and no terrible disasters will strike you or your home.

11 God will command his angels to protect you wherever you go.

12 They will carry you in their arms, and you won't hurt your feet on the stones.

13 You will overpower the strongest lions and the most deadly snakes.

14 The Lord says, "If you love me and truly know who I am, I will rescue you and keep you safe.

15 When you are in trouble, call out to me. I will answer and be there to protect and honor you.

16 You will live a long life and see my saving power."

Isn't that calming prose?

The part about the lions was very interesting to me. I don't recall if I've discussed this before but I had a very vivid dream soon after Patty's diagnosis that relates to this. I've not discussed it much because I'm very cautious about proclaiming that the Lord spoke to me in some form or fashion. If anyone is interested I can relate it in another post.

Radiation 2/3 Complete

2007-04-30T08:56:00.000-04:00

Patty saw the doctor last Thursday about the dizziness. He said it could be from some of the medication. Over the weekend it actually has improved.

Patty also has been having a feeling of not getting enough air when she breaths. She also talked to the doctor about this but he didn't seem to be too concerned. He sent her for an EKG Friday and a MUGA Scan this morning. Both are tests for your heart. The Herceptin infusions she is taking weekly have a small chance of causing heart problems. She has had two so far that have been fine. From what I've read there is a good possibility that the breathing issue is stress related.

Today will be her 23rd of 33 radiation treatments. She has been handling this like a champ. I'm starting to see the fatigue set in on her and her skin has been itching her a lot but otherwise she has not has any major reactions.

Friday she took Kendall to the zoo. She said there were 27 other schools there! Luckily, they both like the zoo. Patty walked around with Kendall and another little girl from her class whose parent wasn't there. While they were sitting eating an ice cream a bird came and, uhhhhhh, took care of business in the little girl's hair and Patty's shoulder! Next they sat down on some railroad ties and the little girl's shorts got tar all over the back of them. Patty told the teacher that this little girl's parents are going to wonder who was chaperoning their child!

Update on Patty

2007-04-25T16:08:00.000-04:00

Patty hasn't been feeling great the last few days. She's had a light headed feeling and can't seem to get a deep breath. She's not sure if she's just become acutely aware of her breathing or what. I've read that the Herceptin can cause dizziness in 13% of patients so I'm not sure if this is what this could be or not. Hopefully, it is nothing. She's sees the doctor tomorrow so we'll see what he says. Pray that these issues resolve for her.

Team Katie & Kendall

2007-04-23T00:07:00.000-04:00

I came home Wednesday night and Katie and Kendall had been making paper dolls. Katie told me she wanted to sell them for money to make Mommy feel better. Since its that time of year for the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life fundraiser, I told her we could sell them to raise money for the ACS. They could hardly wait. They wanted to sell them right then!

So Friday night I helped them make a poster and they also made some no bake cookies with Mommy. They had their aprons and chef hats while they helped. We got up early, put on our Relay shirts, gather our signs, scooped up our paper dolls and cookies and headed down to the commons area of the subdivision. We got setup and waited, ....and waited, ...and waited, then finally we had a customer. Friends of ours Darrell & Beth were on their way to DisneyWorld so I asked them to stop by because I was afraid that we wouldn't get much business. How wrong was I?

Luckily someone was having a yard sale up the street which brought in a lot of traffic. Many drove on by but quite a few people stopped and got their paper dolls or "cow patties." Before I knew it, these little girls had raised, drum roll please.............., $80 in an hour and a half! Can you believe it? All on their own, their own idea. I was so proud of them. A silver lining on this dark cloud of cancer.

They already are bitten with the bug of success. Kendall informed next week we're going to Fountain City Park to sale them! Below is a pic of our volunteers. You can see them with their new glasses posing with their cookies and paper dolls.

Treatment Update

2007-04-13T08:39:00.000-04:00

Patty is a 1/3 of the way through her radiation treatments now. She is doing relatively well with them so far. She has been extremely tired lately so we thought her red blood cell counts might be low but they checked it yesterday and it was ok. They're going to check her thyroid to see if there could be any issues there. She got her Herceptin treatment yesterday as well and it went as expected.

She has started to venture out without her wig in the last week. She's got enough hair to try to spike it up but it doesn't want to cooperate for some reason. It wants to merge towards the center and form a mohawk. Its also coming in a light brown rather than the dark brown she used to have. She's also began to lose some of the weight the steroids added while she was having to take those. She has also been trying to continue to work out when she can.

I plan to keep updating so keep reading! Also please continue to send Patty notes of encouragement if you want! Have a great day!

Random Musings

2007-04-09T09:02:00.001-04:00

We had a great Easter yesterday visiting with family and friends. We also sneaked (I just learned "snuck" is not a word, lol...) in a little fun towards the end of the day with a movie.

Patty's hair continues to grow back in but it is more of a light brown rather than her normal dark brown. Her radiation treatments continue as well. She's been having back and chest pain lately which always brings her concern that something is wrong. Who can blame her?

That's one thing we will have to deal with I guess from here on out. I've kept holding out hope that things will ultimately return to normal but I'm beginning to realize that is not a possibility. A 'new' normal will have to develop which is something I'm trying to grasp.

Cancer is a journey. Long for some, short for others. But cancer is by and by becoming more and more a "chronic" disease. In the past, metastatic cancer was considered a definite death sentence but now, people are living for long periods of time even after their cancer has recurred. Just the other day I picked up a chart on a patient who had breast cancer in 1981. It recurred in 1984 but she is still alive today due to the different types of treatment that have become available throughout the years. Encouraging news for survivors such as Elizabeth Edwards or Tony Snow who recently announced they are battling metastatic cancer. Our prayers are with them in their battle.

Treatment Update

2007-04-04T16:43:00.001-04:00

Patty completed her 6th of 33 treatments today. She's 18% of the way, lol... She's handling the treatments well. Usually, side effects from the radiation treatments don't begin to develop, if they do, until after 10 or more treatments. Hopefully and prayerfully these won't develop.
Her Herceptin infusions continue to take place every Thursday through the end of the year.

ACS Releases New Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines

2007-03-29T09:23:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, the American Cancer Society (ACS) released new Breast Cancer screening guidelines for women who have a higher risk to develop the disease. Click HERE to read them. Why did they do this you may ask? In the adjacent picture you can see the mammogram on the left and an MRI on the right of the same patient. Obviously there is much better detail on the MRI. MRI is not being recommended to replace mammograms but rather to complement them. For example, calcifications will show on a mammogram but might not on an MRI. Often calcifications are indicative of a possible cancer. MRI's also have built in software programs that use sophisticated algorithms to detect probabilities of cancer in lesions identified.

I may have told this story before so if I have please forgive me. When Patty had a biopsy of an area in March at my urging, the doctor had said it wasn't necessary, there was a another very small area that was seen. It did not look like a breast cancer. It instead looked like a benign lymph node. It was also in a difficult location to biopsy without causing a lot of pain and misery (This is not the area where a cancer ultimately developed). The Radiologist said we could get an MRI but he didn't think it was necessary. Patty had just had two biopsies and didn't want to have to go through another procedure. My instinct and experience was to disagree and strongly suggest that it be done but, I was persuaded by her weariness and his experience. And, her risk over the next 5 years of developing breast cancer according to several risk assessment tools was ONLY 2%.

Worst mistake I've ever made. I regret not following my initial instinct and knowledge EVERY day and will for the rest of my life. If we had proceeded, the MRI would have most likely discovered both areas in their earliest stages.

I said all that to say, for the current time it is still going to be difficult to obtain a Breast MRI unless you meet certain criteria. See the criteria below:

have a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation
have a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, child) with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation, even if they have yet to be tested themselves
lifetime risk of breast cancer has been scored at 20%-25% or greater, based on one of several accepted risk assessment tools that look at family history and other factors
had radiation to the chest between the ages of 10 and 30
have Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Cowden syndrome, or Bannayan-Riley-Ruvalcaba syndrome, or may have one of these syndromes based on a history in a first-degree relative

This is due to the cost of the exam. Mammograms are relatively cheap in the health care arena. MRI's are not. These new guidelines may or may not be followed by your insurance company. There is a risk calculator that will be used to help see if you qualify for a Breast MRI. I strongly urge every female reading this to click HERE and assess your risk. Men, have your wives assess their risk.

One thing to keep in mind is this. If you don't meet the criteria but your intuition gives you concern or the physician wants you to return in six months for a follow-up exam, insist on having a breast MRI even if your risk factors do not meet the requirements (see above). You may have to even pay for it yourself. At that point you'll have to ask yourself, how much is your health worth or your peace of mind? Tough question.

March 22nd Spurgeon Prayer Link Corrected

2007-03-27T12:12:00.000-04:00

I found out the link I provide to the Spurgeon devotional on prayer was not the right link. For those of you who attempted to read it I have updated it to reflect the correct link. It is HERE as well.

Final Setup Today

2007-03-27T12:00:00.000-04:00

Patty comes in today for her final setup to begin her radiation treatments.

To explain, most patients come for an initial CT scan through their area of treatment so that we can then develop the most optimal treatment plan to treat them with. Once that is complete, we then bring them back in to "confirm" that the treatment plan is indeed most optimal. Once this is complete and approved by the physician, we can then begin their treatments. Once treatments are started, we image the patients daily to assure that we are indeed delivering the plan that was created. Got it? I thought so, lol...

Please continue your prayers for us throughout this process. Specifically that Patty doesn't have any unfavorable skin reactions to the radiation and for us as a whole. Trust me, we need them.

Spring Break

2007-03-27T11:55:00.001-04:00

We didn't do much over Spring Break. I took Monday through Wednesday off and we traveled down to Chattanooga to visit with some good friends of ours that used to live here in Knoxville. Some of you know them as Earl Marcey.

We went down Monday afternoon and the next morning we headed off to the Georgia Aquarium. Self-purportedly the "World's Largest and Most Engaging Aquarium." Do you feel a review coming on? Good.

It was relatively easy to get to and the line wasn't long to enter except for the security. We had purchased tickets ahead of time online of which I definitely recommend. Be sure to print out the tickets they email you before you come though. One small step I seemed to miss. Alas, it wasn't a big issue as the will call line wasn't long and we traversed right on into the Aquarium. The design is well thought out as it is a pod design where there is a central Atrium/Lobby that is surrounded by 5 pods appropriately separated by aquatic life (river, ocean, etc.). With this design your not in one continuous line and you can enter whichever one looks the least crowded. It took us about two hours to tour the whole facility.

They do have some aquatic life that I had not seen before. I've been to several aquariums (Monterey, Newport, Ripley's, and Chattanooga) and hadn't seen a Whale Shark

or a Beluga Whale.

Both of these were pretty impressive. As far as being the largest aquarium in the world, well, it didn't seen any bigger than other aquariums I've seen. But, maybe that's just my revisionist memory, lol... It is definitely worth the trip to see it as least once.

We left and headed back to Chattanooga where we spent the night again with Earl Marcey. We got up and headed back the next morning. Below is a pic of the kids along with Earl Marcey's kids Alex and Eliza.

Phase 3 Begins (LINK UPDATED)

2007-03-22T11:57:00.001-04:00

Patty is here today to begin the first procedure of what will be a 7-8 week process; Radiation Therapy. Once again refreshing in my mind how surreal this whole process has been and still is. I still find it hard to believe that my wife is here at my work for treatment. I never visioned such a scenario. Sometimes there are snippets of time where we can get away from this whole thing but today is not one of them. I was feeling
kind of down this morning as the reality set in that she was coming
today. I needed some encouragement so I turned to Spurgeon's daily devotional and found this,

“And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed.”

Matthew 26:39

Ok, that seemed to be a rather timely message to read. So, I sat down and did as such. I then read the rest of the devotional and it is another of his gems that can be treasured to read over and over again. Thus, I'm going to provide the link below to the whole devotional. Click HERE to read.

I then begin to wonder what Patty thinks about having to come here for treatment? I'm sure its surreal for her as well. Maybe I'll ask her to post here what it is like. I guess she'll get to know many of my co-workers well.

The day didn't start off well for her. She went this morning for her Herceptin infusion. It didn't go as well as usual. They had to stick her 5 times before they finally got access to her port to do the infusion. Not to mention the pain of being stuck but the bruising will probably be bad as well. Hopefully she'll have a better afternoon. I think her and some other friends are going to go to lunch and take the kids to the park.

powered by performancing firefox

Stepping Out

2007-03-16T08:42:00.001-04:00

I apologize for not posting as of late. Katie developed the flu and its made it for a more strenuous week. Today is her first day back to school. Luckily, nobody else has developed it, especially Patty because this week her counts from the last chemo treatment or the lowest.

Last night, Patty spoke for the first time about this ordeal she/we have been traversing. The group she spoke to was the ladies' group from our church. They meet once a month on a Thursday night for a time of discussion and fellowship. There is always a guest speaker and so last night Patty played the part. She said there were approximately 30 ladies in attendance. I asked her how she did and she said, "good." I could infer from her voice it indeed went well. Funny thing how you can infer the real meaning of a spoken word just by the tone. She had practiced it for me the night before and I was soundly impressed. She said she had been practicing ;). Patty's has always been lacking in the self confidence category. Unduly so, as everything she puts her mind to she does it with excellence.

Anybody have any good ideas for a quick Spring Break trip?

What Come of This?

2007-03-09T10:12:00.001-05:00

Patty received her weekly Herceptin infusion yesterday without any issues. She is still feeling a lack of energy from the chemo treatment last week. Chemotherapy is cumulative so its probably the culmination of all the treatments as well as the shots to boost her red and white blood cell counts.

She has started an exercise program we offer at our Fitness Center that is designed with cancer patients in mind. She has already jumped right into the program. Yesterday she said she rode 3 miles on the bicycle and walked another 1.5 miles. Studies have shown that a moderate exercise program while under treatment will improve fatigue levels.

Changing gears, you wonder what God has in store for you on the other side of tragedies such as this. I've wondered that a lot actually. Last night, I met a wonderful lady who had recently underwent a mastectomy for breast cancer. When she learned my profession she had lots of questions about breast cancer of which I was able to help her better understand it and her situation. I was sort of taken back about how thankful she and husband were afterward.

Even though I was in the field before this I didn't know a quarter of what I've learned about breast cancer since. What was ironic about this encounter was I had just spoke to old friend earlier in the day, who through describing a trial of his own, spoke about how God uses events such as this to prepare us for his work and will. On the way home last night I recalled that conversation and wondered if being a resource for others facing this is meant for me. If that is the case, I'm ready to help as many that face this issue as humanly possible.

The Next Step

2007-03-06T23:19:00.001-05:00

Well, Patty showed up at my work today and it wasn't to see me. Today was her initial consult with our Radiation Oncologist. There was some debate about whether or not she should receive radiation therapy or not but after pouring over the latest clinical trial and study results it looks as if there is some benefit to be gained by having the radiation. Small but albeit there. Additionally, it appears that if she opts for reconstruction it is advantageous to perform the radiation before any type of reconstruction. She's going to wait until after Spring Break to get started so that she can recover fully from the chemo and not have to drag all four kids to the treatments.

She looks as if she is on the upswing she is still having some significant back pain but it is bearable if she is on the meds. Having injections to improve both her white and red blood cell counts is definitely a longer recover period for her.

Doing Better Today

2007-03-05T23:47:00.001-05:00

Patty has done much better today. Holly watched the boys for her so she was able to get some good rest. Her back has started to feel better but still is bothering her some.

I took Kendall for her annual eye appointment today. She received a good report on her Amblyopia. We were a little early so I stopped at my "local watering hole," Starbucks, and got her a hot chocolate. She was stoked that she got to sit in the parking lot with me in the front seat and drink her hot chocolate. It took her all of about 3 gulps to finish it.

Katie finally let me pull a loose tooth today. Oh, the horror!

A Summary of the Latest in Breast Cancer Treatment

2007-03-05T13:10:00.001-05:00

Click HERE for a link to a summary of the latest in breast cancer treatment from the 29th Annual San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium. The preeminent cancer conference in the world. It will be a difficult read for those not in the medical field. Patients who have educated themselves will be able to understand much of it.

The synopsis; the state of breast cancer treatment is improving one small step at a time. There is no single magic bullet. The article predicts that overall deaths from breast cancer will be HALF of what they were in 1990. An amazing stat for a twenty year time period. Thanks to all the researchers who have made this a possibility.

Weekend Update

2007-03-05T00:02:00.001-05:00

Patty did ok on Saturday. She was really sleepy due to the pain meds but we actually got out that evening. Today was a different story. She was pretty much wiped out all day. Her red blood cell count was borderline low on Thursday and probably lower after she got the chemo. When that is low it causes you to feel as if you have no energy. That along with the pain meds to combat the Neulasta shot combined for a recipe of grogginess and sleep.

I took the kids on to church so she could get some "quiet" rest. It was a great service. We had 10 people baptized. I have never seen that many at one service. Our worship pastor, Mark preached the sermon. I really enjoy his sermons. He never skirts around the truth. The reason he was preaching was our pastor, Scott, was a feeling a little under the weather because he had donated his bone marrow earlier in the week. He was a match for a leukemia patient on a bone marrow registry he signed up for many years ago. Shane, our children's minister led worship. It was awesome as well. He is definitely talented.

Hopefully, Patty will be on the upswing tomorrow.

Post Treatment Update

2007-03-02T11:36:00.001-05:00

Patty had her last major chemo treatment yesterday. It went as well as it could, no reactions or illness. She also had to get another shot to boost her red blood cell count, Aranesp and she will get the Neulasta for the white blood cell count today. The double shot expresso, chemo style.

She made it all the way through without having to enter the hospital with low blood counts which is a great thing. Many have to delay their treatment until their blood counts increase. Some even have to go into the hospital to have IV antibiotics because they developed an infection that normally wouldn't bother you but do to their white blood cell count being so low it can be extremely harmful. Hopefully, the Neulasta will not wipe her out for 3 days as it has done in the past. Last time it wasn't as bad as the others so keep praying.

Two major hurdles down, surgery and major chemo, one more major to go, radiation, and many minors from here to eternity. The journey now has been almost 7 months. It seems much, much longer.

Patty's Last Major Chemo Treatment Tomorrow!

2007-02-28T08:46:00.000-05:00

Wow. I apologize for the long delay in posting. It seems like things have been extremely busy at home and at work over the last week leaving me little time to "effectively" blog. I know, "yea , right. You couldn't find time throughout the whole week?" I stand corrected and humbly throw myself on the mercy of the readership! I intended to blog yesterday but Blogger was down for most of the day yesterday. But fear not! I'll be consistently posting updates on Patty's condition throughout this next treatment.

Anyway, Patty's last major chemo treatment is tomorrow. #9 in all. (Sidebar: I just erased almost a whole paragraph. I'm beginning to really respect "real" journalists, if there is such a thing anymore, the more I "write" myself. It's tough work to pound out what you're thinking in your head and translate it into a format that doesn't allow expression, inflection, or tone to shine through. And, at the same time 'get the point across.' Not to mention correctly formatting it grammatically. But I digress.) She's done much better than I expected. She seems to be feeling fairly well lately. She'll start the steroids today which can lead to a little irritability so we'll cut a little slack over the weekend ;). Her hair continues to grow back at a fast pace. She even asked me the other day is she should just go without it. I'm kicking myself for not doing a weekly "dome" shot to document the growth for everyone. I don't think it will be long before she sheds the 'artificial locks' and fears the oven no more! lol...

As I contemplate this last treatment, I feel some deep thoughts coming on as Patty enters turn 4 and throws her efforts towards crossing the finish line. But alas, I don't have the time to express them now.

Ironically enough, today I'm meeting with a director from Komen for the Cure Foundation (formerly the Susan B. Komen Foundation) to discuss our Cancer Centers and our services for breast cancer patients. Boy, she'll never know how much I "really" know about our services.

Below you will find some previously promised pictures from the last few weeks. Enjoy!

Princess Prep

Snow White & Her Fellow Princesses

The "Real" Princesses

Icicles On The Cabin

Patty, Myself, Beth, & Chuck

Weekend Update

2007-02-20T09:25:00.000-05:00

Patty and I had a great time up in the Smokies this past weekend. She did well all except for an extremely sore throat. We're not sure if it is due to sinuses, strep throat, or an ulcer from the chemo. It started to get better on Monday so hopefully that will continue.

We got about 4-5 inches of snow where we were staying. We've always dreamed of going up to the Smokies and getting snowed in. We couldn't believe it actually happened. Of course, it cleared up early the next morning and we were able to get and go eat that afternoon. The night it snowed we got in the hot tub and sat there while the snow fell on our heads! It was great.

Chuck and I went snow skiing Saturday morning. It was the first time I had been in eight years. Chuck is an ol' pro, he never fell until some wild and crazy snowboarder clipped him from behind and blew him out of his skis, lol... The guy hit him so hard it broke the front bindings on his ski! That ended our day of skiing which, was fine considering I had crashed about a dozen times. Some which were worthy of America's Funniest Videos I'm sure. My wrist and neck were starting to feel the brunt of my slaloming ineptness. Actually, I did better than I expected. I worked my way up to Gatlinburg's most difficult blue runs which are probably akin to the bunny slopes of Colorado. Moral victory nonetheless.

While Chuck and I were traversing the slopes of Ober Gatlinburg, Patty and Beth were doing what they do best - SHOP. I believe I got off easy as they didn't visit many stores and when the snow starting falling they begin to make a "bee line" to the cabin. The next day we got out and hiked around in the snow. Patty and Beth built a miniature snowman. The cabin had a real fireplace so we kept a fire going most of the time. It had a definite coziness about it.

It was a great time for Patty and I to get away and not think about the current stresses of life that are constantly on our minds. We hadn't really done that in a long time. Thanks to all of you who helped make it happen. You're the best!

Patty Update & Valentine's Day

2007-02-16T12:45:00.000-05:00

Patty is doing well. She got her Herceptin treatment yesterday without issue. Her hair is continuing to grow back. I know she can't wait to first, get rid of the wig, and second, how her hair is going to come back in. Her mood has been improved as of late and she seems to be doing well emotionally. I hope that continues.

I took her out for a special Valentine's Day dinner at one of our favorite restaurants, Bistro - By the Tracks. We have only at their a couple of times due to the expense but I love the atmosphere. The fact one of our good friends Tracy works their has nothing to do with it ;).

Anyway, I had to tell her that morning that I was taking her out because she was going to cook a meal for us and I was afraid she would start preparing it before I let the cat out of the bag. I was able to keep one surprise intact though until we got there. I had asked one of Patty's longtime friends Janine and her husband Wayne to join us for dinner so they would get a chance to talk and luckily they took me up on it. So when we got there Patty was surprised to see them pull down their menus to reveal themselves sitting at our table! She was really surprised.

That wasn't the only surprise of the night. Janine had commented that she saw one of the doctor's Patty and her used to work with when they came in and sat down. Patty noticed him as well and nothing else was said after that. Later on during the meal, one of the waitresses comes to the table and hands Janine a folded piece of paper addressed to J-Nine (her nickname). The look on her face was priceless, a total state of 'shock and awe'. What was on it? It had just the simple word 'enjoy' a gift certificate for a rather large amount that covered both of our meals! And dessert to boot! Can't beat that. The giver didn't want her to know who gave it but I think we figured it out. So, all I will say is many thanks Dr. X.

Patty and I are stealing away for the weekend to Gatlinburg with my cousin and his wife, sans kids. Can you believe it? I don't know how she talked somebody into watching the kids but she did. Pray for Darrell & Beth and Ben & Tracy. They'll need it. Patty wanted to surprise me with this getaway but she just couldn't pull it off. It no problem though as I appreciate the effort.

I probably will not have internet access but if I'll do I'll post a snow watch! Have a Great Weekend everyone! God is Good!

Update & Another Visitor From the Past

2007-02-13T17:14:00.001-05:00

Patty is still doing much much better than I expected this go around. I'm not sure if she actually feels better or is just toughing it out. She said today that her back is still bothering her but not limiting her to the couch. Her hair continues to grow back. I'm going to see if she'll start letting me do a weekly hair growth picture, lol...

Somebody came by the office today to see me that I hadn't seen in a long time. Patty and I had got know this person through another friend. We had grown to to really respect them for their spiritual walk and was often encouraged by conversations we had. We had lost contact with them just through the normal events of life, (you know, a job change, a move, etc.) but had heard they had experienced some real tough times through the last few years. Tough times that Patty and I had thought we would never imagine this person would have to go through.

So when I saw them today I was pleasantly surprised. I showed them some pictures of the kids and the conversation eventually turned to the recent troubles they had encountered. Some really sad and trying events. I had been concerned about their spiritual walk through these tough times but today, to hear them speak gave me such encouragement. They spoke of how their faith had been strengthened and that God was now their strength and how good that feels to depend solely on Him. I could see it on their face. God is good even through the troubled times. Wow. I want that. Don't you?

Patty Update

2007-02-12T09:44:00.000-05:00

Patty is doing better than previous Neulasta episodes. Your prayers are helping! She says she is still very, very sore but thankfully she is not relegated to the couch for an extended period of time. She has been a real trooper and I can't say enough at how well she has handled this whole ordeal.

Last night, we had a community group leader meeting to discuss things going on with our groups. Penny Sparks heads up the leaders and provides us with tips, encouragement, and support in our efforts. Last night, she shared some scripture with us that was like soothing water for my parched soul. I needed it. I needed the encouragement and forgiveness it provides. I thought there may be some of you that need it as well so I'm going to post it below. It is Paul writing to the Philipians starting in chapter 3, verse 12. The bold emphasis is mine.

12 I have not yet reached my goal, and I am not perfect. But Christ has taken hold of me. So I keep on running and struggling to take hold of the prize. 13 My friends, I don't feel that I have already arrived. But I forget what is behind, and I struggle for what is ahead. 14 I run toward the goal, so that I can win the prize of being called to heaven. This is the prize that God offers because of what Christ Jesus has done. 15 All of us who are mature should think in this same way. And if any of you think differently, God will make it clear to you. 16 But we must keep going in the direction that we are now headed.

101st Post

2007-02-10T21:02:00.000-05:00

I didn't realize the last update I gave on Patty yesterday was the 100th post of this blog. 100 posts, hard to believe.

Oh well, first an update on Patty. She has felt pretty good for the most of the day. We had Kendall's birthday party this morning. It went really well. All the kids had a lot of fun. Patty said her neck starting hurting this morning and now this evening she is starting to get sore all over. I poked her in her side not thinking of it hurting her and was like "ouch!" Ooops!

Most of the girls from our community group came over to help Patty get all the princesses "dolled up" with make-up, hair, nails, and jewelry stations. I'll post a pic as soon as I can find the cord to hook up to the camera. I've got to get me one of those new wireless cameras.

Quick Update

2007-02-09T08:38:00.001-05:00

Patty's treatment went well yesterday with no immediate reactions or side effects. She comes back for her Neulasta shot today. This will begin to hit her Saturday afternoon and get progressively worse until Tuesday morning when it will begin to improve. So the next few days are probably not going to be a lot of fun. I keep praying that it won't affect her as bad as the last.

Kendall turns 6 today. We're having a princess pampering birthday party for her on Saturday morning. I hope the Neulasta shot doesn't start to hit Patty before then. I had to take Kendall to the doctor yesterday morning because she had been complaining that her throat was hurting and it turns out she has strep throat. Its the first time ever any of our children have ever had it. So she had to miss school but was able to go back today because we got her on the antibiotics right after her doctor visit. He said she wouldn't be contagious by today.

I'll continue to update on how Patty is doing throughout the weekend.

Treatment & A Look Into the Past

2007-02-08T13:57:00.000-05:00

Patty is getting her treatment as I type. It got started at about 12:30 after visiting with the physician. After speaking with him, it looks as if she'll have one more treatment after this one. He left it up to us because he said the data doesn't say one way or the other but since Patty had the different drugs out of sequence he would do another if we wanted. I asked him what would he do if it was his wife and he said he would probably do the extra treatment since Patty hasn't had any neuropathy side effects. So, that was the clincher. Not great news for the short term, i.e. another Neulasta shot experience but, hopefully better news for the long term, i.e. disease free survival.

While we were waiting for the nurses to hook Patty up I was looking out the window and noticed a person that looked familiar. Upon closer look, I realized it was someone that Patty and I used to know really, really well. We ran around a bunch and had a lot of fun together in the past. Once Patty and I got married and moved to Powell we faded apart as friends due to home distances and then when we had children, and this person was married and had none, we almost never saw them again. We would run into them "once in a blue moon" but that was it. Last year we had heard that this person had asked for a divorce because they had met someone else. It seems we've heard that scenario a lot this year.

The person we saw out the window couldn't see us sitting inside while she talked to a delivery man. As we watched them, I begin to marvel at how far our paths had diverged throughout the years. Here Patty sat, dedicated mom and wife, preparing to be hooked up for a chemotherapy treatment at way to young an age. Outside, sat someone one we knew that had given up a good marriage to experience personal freedom again and supposedly all the great things that come with it. You're probably thinking I'm going to begin expounding on the "life isn't fair" mantra, but I'm not. I never have and I never hope to. I've witnessed it everyday since I've been in the field I work. I knew bad things happen to good people. I just never got my own full taste of it until August 9. Boy, did I get a mouthful.

Anyway, seeing this person stand outside and chit chat and thinking about their circumstances I described above. It brought me back to a question I asked Patty a few weeks ago when we had heard about another friend experiencing unfaithfulness and a seemingly inevitable divorce. I asked her would you rather go through what your going through or be faced with a pending divorce. We both admitted it was a tough question to answer. In the end, we both fell on the side of what we're facing now. At least we have hope that what we have will last.

Another Big Treatment Tomorrow

2007-02-07T11:35:00.000-05:00

Patty has another treatment scheduled tomorrow at 11:00 (be in prayer). This could be her last major treatment but we won't find out probably until we meet with the physician. I know she hopes it is her last. Her hair is continuing to grow back and she already considering ditching the wig. She will most likely start radiation treatments after this is completed. Those will last for 7 weeks and are daily except for weekends. So that will be a logistical issue will have to solve.

TomGirl

2007-02-05T13:51:00.000-05:00

Saturday Kendall, our 2nd, was playing with her princess and troll figures. Not the troll that you would normally conjure up an image of but yet a small bright big hair troll. If you know Kendall, she would rather play with these by herself. She's always been this way and loses a bit of self control when someone attempts to interject into the play scene. Grant, #3, loves to play with these things as well and that doesn't suit well with Ms. Kendall.

So, on Saturday Grant decided he wanted to play as well and Kendall begin to have a nuclear meltdown. I called her to the top of the steps to discuss the situation. She explains to me that boys aren't supposed to play with girl toys. I explained that she sometimes likes to play with Grant's toys. She then pleaded, "but he's a boy!" I then instructed her to let Grant play. At this point, she thumps down on the step, crosses her arms in a huff, and places a stern look on her face and then shouts out "Grant's a TOMGIRL!"

I had to laugh. Never heard that one before.

Useful Site

2007-02-04T14:43:00.001-05:00

For all of you voracious web surfers like myself I recently discovered one of the most useful websites I've seen in a long time. I read about it in the Wall St. Journal the other day and for me it is a great tool. I read a lot of blogs and news websites and this site allows you to customize one page to where it will download all the blog and news site headlines so you can see all of them on one page and then determine if you want to read them. It does it by utilizing a RSS feed. Check it out, Here's the link.

A Hike

2007-02-02T09:13:00.000-05:00

Patty received her Herceptin treatment yesterday without incident. One thing she hasn't consistently disliked while being on chemotherapy is what she describes as a "chemical smell." She says after she receives a treatment she smells a chemical smell. I've never smelled anything but she insists she does. I suspect that it may be emanating from her blood vessels in her nasal passages.

I mentioned a that a group of my close community group friends went on a hike in the Smokies. In particular, the Meig's Creek trail behind "The Sinks." Below is a piece that stemmed from that hike.

Recently, I went on a hike. I love to hike. It is one of the times that I feel closer to God. Strangely enough, I've never had a desire to be a park ranger. Probably because I'm afraid if I experienced God's unblemished creation on a daily basis its inspiring affect on me might be dampened. Maybe. More likely, its that I know they don't make much money. lol... As I write that last sentence I wonder what that says about me but, I'll digress.

One of the things I love about a hike is the anticipation of what hiking around the next bed of the trail might bring. An inspiring vista?...a ?...a refreshing brook? God only knows. The bend beckons me to peek around it in a quest of what as to what it holds. More often than not its the view of another bend or maybe another up hill climb. But just when I'm contemplating reversing course and heading back God jumps out in front of me in the form of a cascading waterfall or a breathtaking view of his vast creation.

A hike in a sense parallels the journey of life and boy have I walked down some beautiful trails of life. Over the last year, the hike has been a long, steep, difficult climb especially over the last month for me. My shoes are worn and wet from crossing swift streams and my knees ache from falling on the rocks. My backpack weighs more and more with each hill. But I know that God has a vista, a waterfall or a refreshing brook ahead of me just around the bend and thus I trudge along with confident trust in His providence for us.

For those of you who don't know me I'm in the middle front row

Growing Fast

2007-01-31T17:55:00.001-05:00

Patty's hair continues to grow back fast. We thought it wouldn't begin to grow back until her chemo was complete but evidently the Taxotere doesn't effect hair growth in some people. Her energy is still low but otherwise she is feeling OK.

I've got a bunch of things I want to blog about but I haven't been able to sit down and pound them out. Being the perfectionist I am, sometimes it takes me an hour to type, edit, type, edit again, and on and on before I'm somewhat satisfied that what I've written is suitable for reading.

Another reason I haven't posted much this week is I've been down and out with a dental issue. I had a two old fillings and a new crown down last week and up until today they have been killing me. I suffered through the weekend and then finally went back to the dentist on Monday so he could look at it. He said it was fine that probably the roots were a little traumatized (yea, no kidding). So he sent me home with the "take some tylenol" advice. After one hour of sleep on Monday night I called him back and said if I'm going to have to wait it out he is going to have to give me something for the pain which, he did. So last night I'm laying in bed and its still hurting despite the pain medicine and I'm having dreams of future root canals. At that point I realized I hadn't even prayed about it so I did. I get up today and it doesn't hurt.

A Life Worth Emulating

2007-01-27T23:58:00.000-05:00

Patty and Katie performed "I AM" again today for a group at Inskip Baptist church. Patty said it went really well. I never imagined the day that Patty would not mind performing on stage. She continues to surprise me. She is feeling better. Strangely enough her hair is growing back sooner than we thought.

I went to the funeral last night of our first volunteer at St. Mary's North. His name was Roy Perkey. Roy was loved by everyone and we were shocked to hear of his passing. He had just worked last Wednesday and died Friday morning. I am going to truly miss his presence. He always made sure to ask how I was doing. Little did I know the width and breadth of Roy's life until attending the funeral and speaking with Roy's family at the funeral. He was truly loved and rightly so. Below are a few words taken from a written eulogy for him

Roy worked for many years at Fulton Sylphon. A union man, his job for many years was chief inspector of the company's control products. As was true throughout his life, Roy was greatly loved and appreciated by his co-workers. They knew he could always be counted on in a time of need.

In his later years, especially after his wife of 55 years passed away in 1996, Roy worked regularly as a volunteer with several ministries: Western Heights Baptist Center, Mobile Meals, Habitat for Humanity, and St. Mary's Hospital.

Each year Roy planted and cultivated a vegetable garden. As the years went by, the garden became smaller, but he always had some tomatoes, okra, beans, squash, and a little corn. He would delight in loading his family up with fresh tomatoes when they came to town or stopped by for a visit.

Roy loved his church. Throughout his life he was an active Baptist laymen - teaching Sunday School and Training Union, serving on many committees, and serving as a deacon.

His greatest wish was to live life to the fullest until the end, and then to peacefully join his wife and Savior in heaven. His family is pleased his wish has come true. Roy's smile and kind words will be missed by his loving family, as well as his family in Christ.

I can only aspire to live a life as full of love and service as his. I imagine on Friday morning our Lord and Savior greeted Roy with the words "well done, good and faithful servant."

Back is Better, Taste is Not

2007-01-26T09:25:00.001-05:00

One of the side effects I haven't discussed on here much is the loss of taste. The reason being I guess is this is a side effect that doesn't cause pain but it does cause frustration. Patty says that things either don't taste the same or not much at all. Some people have described a metal taste but she has not experienced this - thankfully.

Her back is continually improving. Last night she said she just didn't feel good. I think this is the cumulative effect of the chemotherapy on your body. Her blood counts have been lower each visit and I suspect they will be low upon her next treatment. Hopefully they will not be low enough to have to postpone the treatment. Pray that her blood counts will be up for her next treatment which should be on Feburary 8th.

It was 21 degrees this morning. Cold. Real cold, to me at least. Until I was reading some friend's or ours blog who live in Minnesota and they had mentioned it was -8! YIKES! I was beginning to think Tennessee was the new Florida with the balmy temperatures we have experienced this winter. Patty doesn't like it but unless its going to snow I'll take it warm please.

Herceptin Tx Today / Faith

2007-01-25T10:01:00.000-05:00

Patty is scheduled to come in for her weekly Herceptin treatment today. This one currently hasn't caused her any major issues. It can affect her heart and thus they have to due scans on her heart ever so often.

She hasn't recovered from the back pain she gets from the Neulasta shot as quickly this time. I think this has had her concerned but it begin to improve yesterday. I think she is just not recovering from the shot as quickly as she has in the past.

In Bible Study we are working through a study on who Jesus is. It is a study by Serendipity House called Knowing Jesus. Last night's topic was Jesus, the Healer. We were discussing the passage in Matthew 9:18-34 where Jesus heals a little girl, a woman with a lengthy illness, two blind men, and a man who was possessed. All different types of healing. At some time we all need healing, whether it emotionally or physically. The common theme with every one of these individuals who were healed was that they had absolute faith that Jesus could heal them. After the woman and the blind men were healed Jesus tells them, "your faith has healed you", "According to your faith.." The key emphasis throughout the study was our faith. Not faith that he might heal us. But faith that he will heal us.

powered by performancing firefox

An October Moment with God

2007-01-22T23:20:00.000-05:00

Patty did better today and I think is on the upswing for the most part. Hopefully this will continue tomorrow.

I wrote the following piece when our church had to meet outside on a crisp October morn due to the gym floor at "Brickey Church" as many of our church children so eloquently describe it, was being resurfaced. As you'll see I was distracted by the beauty of God's visible church. Enjoy.

"We're having church outside. Its cool, the sun is warm on my back, the sky is clear and blue. Blue, deep sky blue. Not even a whisper of a cloud to distract from its beauty. The trees on the ridge, tall and amber, crimson and stout, are waving in concert to me as I sit in admiration of God's canvas. A lone speck floats over the horizon swaying to and fro with the breath of the wind. A bird spreading his wings and floating on God's providence for him. As I sat while we were praying and once again felt the embrace of the sun upon my skin I wondered, . . . how valuable is that to me?"

This could have went on further but the situation prevented such. The sermon probably begin to warm up at this point and precluded further writing. But as I read it again the other day, I'm glad it didn't continue because it concluded with a poignant question that I have yet to answer.

Patty Update and Popcorn Showers

2007-01-22T08:41:00.001-05:00

Patty started feeling bad on Saturday afternoon. It started with her neck and then eventually worked its way down to her lower back. By Sunday morning she was feeling completely wiped out. This lasted for the whole day and probably will continue throughout today and hopefully she will begin to fill a little better tomorrow.

Both days she was able to rest. Tracy came and got the three oldest to take to play at her house for most of the day on Saturday. And then on Saturday evening I took Katie and Grant to the UT men's basketball game with my dad. What an adventure that was.

We got the tickets from Katie's school at a reduced rate. I should have realized that the price of the ticket is inversely proportional to the height of the seat. How high you ask? How about the second row from rafters! My dad was about to have a heart attack he had to climb so high. Remember that law of physics you learned in high school about heat rising? Its true. It was smoking up there. Grant's cheeks were red like he had a fever.

Amazingly, Grant lasted the whole game. He got a little restless towards the end but on the whole he did better than I expected. He even got a little spirit towards the end and started yelling "shoot it in the basket!" He found that comical as he would turn and look to us as if saying "how was that!" The only mishap during the game was when Grant was munching on some popcorn and suddenly had to sneeze which, was unfortunate for the boy sitting in front of him. I was about to die when the boy, who was around the age of 7, turned around to see who had given him a "munched" popcorn shower. Grant just kept on eating like nothing had happened. So, I had to give him the "cover your mouth when you sneeze" spill which promptly exited out the other ear I'm sure.

The highlight of the game for me was when they announced that Vanderbilt beat Kentucky! A good friend of mine, who unfortunately is a UK fan, was at the game. So, he attends his first game of the year at home and they lose to Vandy! lol... How long has it been since the Kentucky has lost at home to Vandy? I bet he was pained to see it. Boy, I bet that was a long drive home.

Yesterday, I got everybody up and ready and headed out to church so Patty could stay home and rest. It was a challenge as it was raining and we were a little late but we managed. Randy and Kim Rhodes brought some homemade chicken noodle soup last night. I don't know which one of them cooked it but they need to put in an application to the Food Network cause it was deliche'! (Is that an official word?)

powered by performancing firefox

Patty Treatment Update

2007-01-19T08:47:00.001-05:00

Patty's treatment went well yesterday. Well meaning no incidents or reactions. She has been tired a lot lately and she found out why yesterday. Her red blood cell counts were below number. When these are low you begin to feel really tired. So she had to have a shot to try to increase these cells. She'll go for her Neulasta shot today which will have her totally wiped out by tomorrow through Monday. I could tell yesterday that she had been taking the steroids she has to take before, during, and after the chemo. She was on the edge a little. She has to take those today as well so hopefully their effect will abate by Sunday.

The bright spot of my day yesterday was the Mynatt's bringing my favorite meal, Wishbone's. They have the best chicken tenders in town. Me and the kids played hide and seek after baths and dinner while Patty rested. They're still at the age where they don't realize you have to be quiet when you're hiding if you don't want to be found.

After I got them in the bed I decided to have a night with no tv and sat down to listen to James Dobson's online radio broadcast of the "Strong Willed Child." I had been wanting to listen to it ever since I saw the topic in his daily email but, I listened for about 10 minutes and I was so tired I killed over on the couch until about 1:46 a.m. I can tell when I get a good night's sleep because I wake up about an hour before the alarm clock.

Pray that Patty will not suffer the usual effects from the Neulasta shot.

Treatment Tomorrow

2007-01-17T13:35:00.001-05:00

Sorry for the lack of posts the last few days. We were away and I didn't have internet access. Since we've been back I've jumped back in to what appears to be regular life but, knowing its not. How do I know? Patty has another treatment tomorrow.

This will be treatment number 7 of 8-9, for the lack of a better term, "big" chemo treatments. Once these are complete Patty will continue the weekly Herceptin infusions until the end of this year. She may also receive radiation treatments after the "big" chemo treatments as well. This would take about 7 weeks of daily treatment excluding the weekends. Cancer treatment is a long road. A long road of uncertainty. With that I feel God is walking with us and I appreciate the company.

We have small group tonight and I have to attend a funeral visitation beforehand so its going to be a long day. But in my eyes a long day is better than none at all.

powered by performancing firefox