Monday, September 28, 2009

First Treatment

Denbie's and my day began early this morning. I had a 6:30 appointment for blood work followed by my first round of chemo treatment at 7:30. All seemed to go without a hitch and I was able to catch a few winks while receiving the first part of my treatment. That part lasted about 3+ hours and then I was connected to another bag that will pump through a fanny pack that will work 24 hours a day while worn around my waist and will be removed on Friday after my radiation session. The radiation sessions begin on Wednesday and there will be 28 of those on a Monday through Friday basis. We will repeat that schedule for the next 5 Mondays. Again, everyone we've encountered has been stellar in their dedication to patient focus and patience in explaining procedures and knowledge when questions are asked. I continue to be uplifted by the love that is poured upon myself and my family from so many wonderful friends. I am eternally greatful to each and everyone. I see myself strong and healthy on the other side of this and I look forward to seeing you all "further on down the road"..... My love to all.

Thursday, September 24, 2009

here we go

Things are moving pretty fast. Everytime we check the online scheduler they have added something new. Looks like treatments begin MONDAY!! Here's to all this science, research and meeting of the minds- may the results be better than we hope and less obnoxious than we think it will be. Appreciate all the prayers and good energy. Here's to getting my man healthy and well again!!!!

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Monday, September 14, 2009

Road Trip View From Home

I'm so happy the guys are on this trip! They were like giddy school boys taking off on this grand journey. No doubt there will be many laughs and much good fun along the way. Jadon was so kind to say I could go along if I wanted but the real message was from Dylan...woman-go! (pointing in opposite direction!) This is a guy trip all the way and I wouldn't change it for the world. Hope it becomes the first of many! I did a pretty good job way back then of picking out such a good dad for my kids but Steve has done a great job of being not only the best dad but a best friend to his adult sons. I do love that man! And I love the thought of the four most precious men in my life having this time together!

Sunday, September 13, 2009


Mighty, Mighty Buffalo!
After leaving the meeting with Dr. Vaporciyan and entering back to the hallways of M.D.Anderson, the letter "B" presented itself to me in various and direct ways. There were signs everywhere with this letter directing our way through the halls and back to the elevators for our exit...Elevator "B". As I took a few minutes to ponder this unusual fixation, the word "battle" came to my mind. The battle ahead I face -to remain strong and focused and open to my healing. The good natured and playful "battle" memory of the movie "Michael" and the scene with the "Bull". But the bull did not feel quite right as an image to hold on to, so after another moment, a "Buffalo" came into my thoughts. I was transported back to the main entrance of my high school where a magnifcient head of a buffalo hung over the steps. The "mighty, mighty Buffalo" chant said on many team bus trips to go play football games ran through my head. As I shared these thoughts with Denbie and Dylan, they said "well, you're getting ready to go to the Black Hills and the Badlands and your sons, the Brothers , will "B" with you. Last night, Scott Bosard invited us to a football game in Huntsville featuring North Dakota State, his alma mater. At a pregame party, out of the clear, one of the hosts came up and presented me with a hat from NDSU with their mascot on the front, a "Bison". This is most definitely a spiritual journey I'm on and my soul and heart thanks all for their love, thoughts, and prayers for myself and my family.

Friday, September 11, 2009

Well, the good news of the day is that the cancer is contained and considered Stage II! This means he can go into the treatment program in a healthier state and with better prognosis. We are very happy. Dylan, Jadon and Steve are leaving Sunday for a week long road trip to the Black Hills and Kacey will join them Wed night. What a fun trip that will be. Steve's dr was very supportive and thought it was a great idea to go. There's not much more to do at MDA until the 22nd when we will get the final word on the plan of action. I appreciate our daughters-in law and Madylan for giving up their hubbies/daddy for a week. they know what a special trip this is. I appreciate all they have done including the focus on good healthy eating. Mary (and Dylan) have been sending some great food for us...in fact Steve has gained back a pound or two...I'm not getting near the scales myself! We appreciate the visits, laughter, joy and all the thoughts, prayers and good energy being sent our way. Please keep them coming. We are just beginning a trying journey and will definitely need the support of our good friends and precious family. love to you all! Denbie

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

PET Scan Approved!!!


After many phone calls and a couple of nervous days we got word this morning that the insurance company has approved the PET scan that is scheduled for tomorrow (Thursday, Sep 3rd).

A big thanks to Mary for bringing the pre-approval process to our attention!

More information about the scan here. http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=PET

-Jadon