Christmas Eve

Merry Christmas, Everyone! Although our blog readership may have dwindled to a precious few, given the length of time since I last posted a message, wishing even one person a Merry Christmas continues to be a joy. I apolgize to those of you who may still be checking the blog for a post regarding my lengthy tardiness. We have had both joys and challenges since I last left a message. Cindy has completed one round of oral chemotherapy medication, which pretty well whacked her blood cell counts to the extent that the oncologist has delayed the second round. Her counts had gotten so low in fact that the doctor required Cindy to check into the hospital yesterday to receive 2 units of blood. It was just a day trip, and after spending most of the day at Sampson Regional, we actually went out to dinner at Ribeye's, meeting up with our good friends, Wallace and Jane, with whom we had not had a lengthy conversation for too long. It really was good to see them. And thanks for the dinner, Wally! Cindy was about to turn into a pumpkin, so we had to leave way too soon.
Cindy had multiple appointments in November meeting with her physical therapists, rehab physician, neurosurgeon, oncologist, family physician, getting x-rays, blood tests, and her monthly bone treatment. She has endured additional urinary tract infections, as her immune system has been weakened by the chemo. She continues to wrestle with back spasms and muscle pain, and juggling her medication to meet the changing demands. She has been making strides with her physical therapy, and for most short distances is using only a cane for balance while walking. Longer jaunts require some wheels, so we haven't discarded the wheel chair. We went shopping last weekend, which just about whipped both of us, but we saw a number of people we hadn't seen in some time including two of our friends named Judy. The second Judy, Cindy, and I had a big time in the ladies undergarment section in Walmart assisting a male customer who was looking for some guidance. Hope you have a Merry Christmas, Truman and that the gift you bought fits.
Adam came home the week of Thanksgiving, which boosted everyone's spirits. We were able to spend some time with him, and also with my mom. It was very good to see the members of the Rick's clan (mom's side of the family) who were able to attend the annual Thanksgiving celebration the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Mom was able to go with Cindy and I, along with Linda, an aide from Mary Gran.
I have been busy with a big project at work along with the everyday stuff that comes along, so I have been spending some additional time in those pursuits. Cindy has been very patient with me. Our friend, Shirley continues to be a huge blessing to us, and comes over to the house multiple times every week to spend time with Cindy, and help her with whatever she needs. I don't know how we would have gotten along without her.
Adam came in from Arizona late Sunday night and will be with us until Saturday afternoon. As you can well imagine this has been good medicine for his Momma. We are planning to get by Mary Gran today to see my Mom, and will be going to Wilmington (Cindy's sister's) tomorrow for Christmas dinner with Cindy's family.
Our Christmas wish for each of you is God's richest blessings. May he shower you all with His presence! For unto us a child is born and unto us a Son is given. Merry Christmas!

Starting the 2nd 3rd of November

Good Morning Everyone! I hope you are all having a good weekend. I can hardly believe that 1/3 of November is already gone. In fact, I'm still wondering what happened to October. It does seem that time is traveling faster than my ability to keep up. Is that just my personal experience or are there others out there that are finding that to be true in your lives?
Cindy has had a pretty good week this week. She does appear to be getting stronger, and the physical therapy folks are planning to begin the transition from the walker to a quad-cane this coming week. Cindy has been walking around the house some using the furniture-to-furniture approach or as some might phrase it, the pillar-to-post approach. While this has worked well for her so far, I am not totally secure in its application. I do appreciate her adventurous spirit however, and am excited about her progress in that regard. Cindy had PT twice this week, and also taught her final bible study in this initial Daniel series. I know that she and Rebecca have enjoyed this time leading the study, and they have had from all accounts an enthusiastic study group. Pam helped Cindy get ready and provided transportation to bible study on more than one occasion. Shirley continues to be such a blessing to us. She and Cindy (as Shirley says) went on a short "field trip" this past Friday to Belks (one of Cindy's favorite shopping spots), PT, and Walmart. Shirley is becoming very adept at wheeling Cindy around in her "chariot".
Saturday (yesterday) left a little bit to be desired. Cindy had been (for a couple of days) experiencing frequent urges, and some pain in elimination. She decided on Saturday that we needed to see the doctor, so we headed to the Clinton Medical Clinic. Needless to say, we were not the only ones there, and as they have limited physicians on the weekend, we wound up spending nearly 3 hours there. But, as it turns out the time was not spent in vain as she has a urinary tract infection, and is now on an antibiotic. Hopefully, this will clear up quickly. We decided while we were out that we would pick up some fried chicken at Southern Style Chicken & BBQ, and that turned out to be a good decision. Samantha and her crew make some of the best chicken and slaw around. After a brief rest period, Cindy said she felt good enough to take a trip to Mary Gran to visit with my mom. We had received a call on Friday that mom had a bad cough and a fever. But by yesterday afternoon, after being on an antibiotic, and receiving a clear chest x-ray, she appeared to be feeling much better. After all of this activity though, Cindy was just too tired to make it to one more opportunity. I'm sorry we missed it, Tonya! I know you all had a lot of fun. Maybe next year.
Our son, Adam is coming home for a visit the week of Thanksgiving, and we are really getting excited about that opportunity. He will be coming in late Sunday night before Thanksgiving, and be here until the Friday morning after Thanksgiving.
We received some sad news last evening. Cindy's Aunt Catherine passed away suddenly. She will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her. She and husband, Jack had visited us recently and Aunt Catherine had made a delicious coconut cake for Cindy and I, as she had numerous times before. Our heart-felt sympathies go out to all of the family during this difficult time.
This is a really busy time of year for me as we have all of our typical year-end stuff to attend to in addition to the normal day-to-day stuff. I am also in the midst of a sizeable project that has a close deadline, and really need to get that completed. We want each of you to know that Cindy and I continue to be buoyed by your thoughts, prayers, and acts of kindness as we walk daily the path that is laid before us. "Thank you" seems so inadequate to express what we truly feel for all the prayers that have been prayed for us, and all the many kind acts and blessings so many people have blessed us with. It is very humbling to know the care and concern of so many has been extended to us. But we do say thank you, and you can be assured that it comes with a heart full of thankfulness to each of you, and most of all to our Creator and Sustainer. "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13 We hope you have a great week!

Falling Back

Good Evening Everyone! I have already turned the clocks back in anticipation of the annual return of Eastern Standard Time. Although I enjoy coming home from work in daylight, there is just something about getting that lost hour back that was stolen in the spring.
Cindy has had a pretty good week this week, hopefully not merely because I was out of town. I was in Iowa from Monday through Thursday on a work-related trip, and Grace, Cindy's mom came to stay with her and Luci. Cindy really enjoys having her mom here with her. Shirley was in and out this week adding her extra-special touch to the occasion. Cindy began her oral chemotherapy this week, and so far the side effects have been minimal. Hopefully, that status will continue. Her strength appears to be continuing its slow return. She is still walking with a walker, and using the wheel chair for longer distances. Cindy did have a rather tough day on Wednesday, and was unable to make it to her bible study, but it appears that whatever it was was short-lived. Our friend Jannet came on Thursday and spent some quality time with Cindy. They actually went out to lunch, and on a short shopping trip.
We have been having a quiet Saturday, and have watched a couple of movies. Late this beautiful autumn afternoon Cindy, Luci, and I went for a short walk....well, Luci and I were walking. Cindy was joysticking around in the motorized wheel chair that a very dear friend of ours gave her. She needs a little more practice, but it is fun. We hope to make it to church tomorrow morning. Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers, and have a great rest of the weekend!

Mid-Saturday

Good Morning All! Apparently this blog writing thing has gone from daily to semi-daily to approximately weekly, but check back from time to time as you have opportunity because I may surprise you. Cindy has had a pretty good week all things considered. Her feet and legs have been swelling, and the oncologist wanted her to get a doppler ultrasound this week to determine if she has any blood clots. She did have the procedure this week, and it was determined that she does have an area of concern in her lower left leg, where conditions are favorable for the development of a clot. Consequently, the doctor placed her on a series of self-injections to lower the possibility of this occurence. Cindy does appear to be getting a little stronger, and has been able to get out some this week with the help of Shirley, Ann, Betty Jo, and Pam. Still walking with a walker and using a wheel chair for longer distances Cindy had PT only one time this week, but she also taught bible study, got her doppler study, and went to Lowes one day, and Goldsboro yesterday. Shirley has been such a blessing this past week. She doesn't realize how precious she is. I had a meeting on Thursday that ran into the evening, and Ulla came to stay with Cindy. We are taking a relatively slow approach to Saturday, although I will be spending part of the weekend getting ready for a 4-day work-related trip to Iowa beginning this Monday. Cindy's mom is planning to come on Monday, and be here for the duration of my trip, and Shirley will be in and out during the week. Cindy has 3 days of PT scheduled for next week as well as her next to last bible study in this series. We are also planning to attend church tomorrowrio (don't you like that Amy?), and Rebecca is planning to come over Sunday afternoon so that I can practice with the Joyland Chorus. We have not heard from the pharmacy yet regarding Cindy's new oral chemo, but we suspect that we will be hearing from them at any time. Cindy has a stand-up reminder on our computer desk that states: " God is in control." "Our Lord God Almighty reigns." Revelation 19:6, and another that reminds us, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6. May we never forget these reminders as we meet life day by day. We hope each of you has a day of rich blessing, hoping in the one who sustains us.

Saturday....And We've Got It in Park

Good Afternoon Everyone! I hope each of you had a good week and are having a good weekend. After a busy week, and a lot of travel, Cindy and I are taking a rest day today. We spent the night in Raleigh with Cindy's parents on Thursday, and got an early start to Charlotte on Friday, where Cindy had an appointment with the medical oncologist. As it turns out the biopsy she had last week was positive, and she has metastatic leiomyosarcoma in her left breast. This is basically the same type of cancer that she has been battling for almost 9 years now, it has just translocated from the original site or from others as they have developed. Dr. Livingston said that it was highly unusual for metastatic sarcoma to show up in the breast, and that this was the first case he has seen in his practice. Leave it to Cindy to be unique, but I guess that does say something about her longevity and battling spirit, and there is a blessing in that. The oncologist is very reluctant to put Cindy on the standard, toxic chemotherapy drugs given her current physical condition, and instead is opting for an oral chemo drug, which has similar properties to one she was on a year or so ago, but has somewhat different molecular pathways. This will have to be ordered from a special pharmacy, and with insurance approval hopefully we can get started next week.
Overall, Cindy had a pretty good week this past week. Her mobility, while still limited appears to have improved somewhat. She continues to have issues with balance, and it is hard for her to position her body and legs when she is in a prone posistion, or lift them up from the floor to get horizontal. She is using the walker around the house, and the wheel chair when she goes out. Friends and family continue helping out by staying with her, which allows me to go to work. Cindy's sister, Anne stayed with her on Monday, taking her to PT, and for a short shopping excursion. Denise also came on Monday, and cleaned the house. Our friend, Ulla was here all day Tuesday. She and Cindy have some interesting conversations, and I was in hopes that they could solve the world's problems while she was here. Ann S. and Betty Jo fixed dinner for us on Tuesday. Ann S. helped Cindy get ready for and took her to bible study and PT on Wednesday. Our friend, Shirley came Wednesday afternoon and again on Thursday. She can do anything, and in addition to being company for Cindy and addressing her needs, also helped with household stuff. Jannet came from Wilmington on Thursday, and was able to spend a good deal of time with Cindy, and she and Shirley helped us get ready for the Charlotte trip. Kim, her dog, Peduncle, (Luci's boyfriend) and Amanda have been taking Luci for walks this week. So you can see that we have had lots of good help. This week will be the first in a while that we have not had an appointment with a doctor, a procedure, or a treatment. Hopefully, things will begin to level out a bit, and we can establish a new routine. It has definitely been something other than routine the last 4 months.
Many of you are aware that my mom is at Mary Gran Nursing Center here in Clinton, and have asked how she is. There have not been any dramatic changes lately. I was with her for a while on Thursday, and she was in a jovial mood. She does enjoy the activities at Mary Gran. They have current events sessions, preaching and singing almost every day, and game and craft activities. They had a mexican-style costume lunch some time back. There are pictures of mom on the bulletin board in a sombrero and moustache that are truly a hoot. They also went to White Lake this summer, and had a big time.
Our son, Adam is living and working in Arizona, but has been traveling quite a bit lately. He has been to California twice and Colarado in the past four weeks. We talk with him on the phone multiple times each week. He is planning to come home for a visit around Thanksgiving, and we are looking forward to that.
We are very grateful for your continued thoughts and prayers, and we know that we are surrounded by them. We are also very thankful for all the wonderful things that folks are doing for us and helping us with. We are being reminded of Paul's letter to the Ephesians: "And be ye kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. Ephesians 4:32. May each of you have a blessed day!

The Journey Continues

Good Evening Everyone! It has been slightly less than a week since my last post, and we have covered quite a bit of ground. Cindy had 2 PT sessions last week, and had another scheduled for last Thursday, but she did not feel up to the task. Cindy's mom, Grace stayed with us most of last week (for which we are truly grateful). Cindy got the results of her mammogram and ultrasound last week, which were inconclusive. We drove up to Raleigh on Thursday, and then on to Charlotte on Friday for a visit with the doctor, and a breast biopsy. The doctor was unable to complete the procedure in his office, so we had to go down to the breast cancer radiology unit at Carolinas Medical Center where we were able to finish things up with the additional equipment. We are anticipating receiving the results on Tuesday or Wednesday this week. We have already scheduled an appointment with the medical oncologist for Friday to get the results from the biopsy, and to plan Cindy's treatment going forward, which will likely include some systemic chemotherapy. Cindy's sister, Anne came and stayed with her today taking Cindy to her PT appt. as well as a brief shopping trip in her wheel chair. Beth, Amanda, and Jane, three of the Walking Ladies of Fox Lake came by and took Luci for a walk this weekend (Beth came by twice). Ann S. and Betty Jo F., two of the other Walking Ladies came by today to share some walking time with Luci. Needless to say, she has been a happy puppy. Our friend, Ulla is planning to stay with Cindy tomorrow, which hopefully is going to be something of a rest/Bible study day. Cindy is still moving rather slowly with her walker as she continues to have some balance issues, and is not steady on her feet. I do believe the PT has been helpful, but the progress has been slow.
I had to report as a potential juror today. I knew that we were going to have to go back to Charlotte this week for further planning/treatment this week, and fortunately the judge excused me from serving this time.
We continue to be the beneficiaries of your thoughts and prayers, and are continuing to take things one day at the time. As I read some time back, we are all responsible for the footwork in our lives, and God is responsible for the results. I, for one, am very grateful for that. I hope each of you has a great day and a great week.

October...already!

Good Evening Everyone! It has been a busy week and a half, consequently I have not taken the oppportunity to post a comment to the blog. I don't know how many of you are continuing to check for updates, but our friend, Ulla told me tonight that she was still checking, and she suggested that I continue to post. Thanks for the encouragement, Ulla and thanks for staying with Cindy last Friday morning. Our friend, Rebecca visited with Cindy on Friday afternoon. Cindy's mom, Grace has been with us since Sunday, and is such a blessing to us.
This past week and a half has been something of a mixed bag for Cindy. She continues to walk slowly with a walker around the house, and uses a wheel chair for longer distances. She also requires assistance going up and down the stairs. She has been going (and is continuing to go) to physical therapy, and those sessions help her to feel better, and we hope they are working to make her stronger. She had a mammogram and an ultra-sound last week that were both somewhat inconclusive. We have a pre-procedure appointment scheduled for Friday in Charlotte with a surgeon who will likely perform a needle biopsy probably next week. Cindy has also developed a urinary tract infection, and has had fevers off and on over the last several days, and has of course not been feeling well. She has been on an antibiotic since last Friday that, while hopefully effective can, and apparently has produced headaches. She got a new antibiotic today, so we are hoping that the headaches will diminish, but that the infection will be eliminated.
As you can readily see, the challenges continue, but Cindy maintains her hopeful outlook, and has even been able to teach the weekly Daniel Bible study along with Rebecca. We thank each of you for your past thoughtfulness, and we continue to solicit your prayers for wisdom, strength, and healing. May each of you have a blessed day!

Back to the Blogosphere

Good Morning Everyone! It has been a week since I have posted to the blog, and many of you may no longer be checking in, but I wanted to update you on our last visit to Charlotte.
We have had a busy week, and some computer issues, which account for some of the delay in posting. Cindy had a CT scan on Friday, and we had appointments with the radiation oncologist and the medical oncologist. The focus for the late spring and summer has been on the disease site in Cindy's spinal area, and this scan and visit was primarily to check on the previously identified areas elsewhere. A "wet" read of the CT scan on Friday indicated that the pelvic mass has decreased in size, while the abdominal muscle nodule has increased in size as have the lung nodules. A new, as-yet-unidentified mass appears to be located in her left breast. Cindy has not had a mammogram in 2 years with everything else that has been going on, but we will have to schedule and get that procedure this week. If in fact, there is something there we will need to get a biopsy. Cindy will be getting those necessary procedures this week as well as 3 physical therapy appointments. Future treatment options may depend on what we find out this week, but it is likely that Cindy will begin an oral chemotherapy within the next two weeks.
Cindy's Arizona cousin, Susan has been such a blessing the last two weeks. She has been staying with us and attending to Cindy's every need. Alas, many good things must come to an end, and Susan will have to go back to Arizona on Wednesday so a new transitional adjustment is on our horizon. Cindy continues to use a walker for getting around the house, and a wheel chair when she goes out. Of course she is not able to drive yet. She is coming off of the steroid that has been used to decrease inflammation, and continues to experience some weakness in her legs and numbness in her feet.
We have been so blessed by folks calling, visiting, providing food, sending cards, walking the dog, and sending/bringing flowers among other things. It is evident that we have some more distance to travel along this road. As we continue on this journey, we continue to solicit your prayers, as we know that they are vital to our spiritual health as well as physical health. We hope you have a blessed day!

Homecoming

Good Morning Everyone! We made it! Cindy is home! Luci is home! Dan is home! And Cindy's cousin from Arizona, Susan is here with us! The greeting Cindy got from Luci when we got to Raleigh was dramatic. She could hardly wait for Poppi Mac to put her down so she could jump up in Cindy's lap and practically lick the skin off her face. That was one happy puppy....and one happy Cindy too. We have been back at 204 since late Thursday afternoon. We still aren't completely unpacked, but are much closer than we were. Susan has been like a Mother Hen trying to keep all the chicks taken care of. She is such a blessing! Cindy is adjusting to life without Dave and Deb, and working on remaking the nest here at home. She is moving rather slow, and it takes more time to do things when one has to incorporate a walker and a wheel chair into the mix, but she is making the most of it. Susan took Cindy to her physical therapy assessment at the Wellness Center on Friday, so I could go to work. Cindy is scheduled for physical therapy on Monday, and hopefully will be able to get back into a regimen, and building her strength. The recovery process is moving slow, but I think we are all happy with the fact that progress is forward. We were able to get some rest yesterday (Saturday), and we also had some visitors. Our neighbors, Ronnie and Shelva came over. Rebecca came to see us and update Cindy on the Bible Study. Our friends from Myrtle Beach, Trevor and Maria also spent some time with us yesterday. Cindy's sister, Anne is coming this morning for a Sunday visit. As a matter of fact, she just walked in the door so I will need to close. Hope to resume posting later in the day. Have a great afternoon!

Hump Day...Really!

Hey Everybody! As of this writing I am in Charlotte with Cindy at Dave and Deb's house. Cindy had her last radiation treatment today, and is feeling rather tired, but she is glad to be finished with the 15 treatments. Nancy has taken her to her treatments every day for the last week. Cindy's cousin, Susan flew in from Arizona today, and is spending the night with Cindy's mom and dad in Raleigh. We are planning to leave Charlotte in the morning and hopefully will be in Raleigh around lunch time. Sometime tomorrow afternoon we are looking forward to being in Clinton. Even though she has enjoyed her home away from home, Cindy is anxious to be at her home again, and to see her puppy. I know Luci will be glad to see her too. Cindy has an appointment with the physical therapy folks at the Wellness Center in Clinton on Friday morning.
We can't say enough about what a blessing Dave and Debbie have been to us. As trying as this whole ordeal has been, the difficulty factor would have been ramped up exponentially without the oasis they have provided, as well as all the assistance they have given in every way imaginable. We are within sight of turning the page on this leg of the journey, but there are miles to be traveled yet. We want to thank our many prayer partners for your company along the way, and for the many times you have lifted us up in prayer. We don't want to be a burden, but we do continue to solicit your prayers for safe travel on Thursday, for Cindy's continued improvement in the days ahead, and for renewed strength for the physical therapy that is to come. May each of you enjoy God's blessings, and know His peace!

P. S. - I don't know if Roger and Royce read the blog, but I would like to wish them a Happy Birthday today!

Weekend

Good Day All! Friday has arrived, and I am sure there are many of us who are grateful that the weekend is upon us with the opportunity for football games, and a bit of extra-curricular. Well, count me in that number too, but for another reason. Hopefully, this is the last weekend that Cindy will have to spend away from home for a while. She has been away for 41 days now, and although we love our friends Dave and Debbie, and they love us, it is near time for them to have their home back, and for our home to have some people in it in addition to Shirley and Denise who have been looking after it in our absences. There is another somebody who is ready to come home also.

This pose is called "Sittin' Purty", and although Luci has been enjoying her Mom Mom Grace and Poppi Mac, doesn't it look like she is ready to come home too and see her Momma. Well, we are all hoping that the homecoming will be this coming Thursday. September 17th. Cindy has 3 more radiation treatments next week, and assuming all goes well she will be ready to hit the trail Thursday morning. Her cousin, Susan is coming all the way from Sun City, Arizona to spend some time with us, and help with the transition back to the "home 20".

Cindy has had a pretty good week overall. David and Debbie continue to be wonderful hosts. Rebecca C's daughter, Nancy took Cindy to her radiation treatments yesterday and today, which was such a help. Cindy did have a spill in the kitchen this afternoon. She had walked to the kitchen with her walker, was attempting to get something out of the refrigerator, got off balance, and hit the floor. She didn't break anything, but after all of the day's activities she could not get up by herself and had to call Debbie at work to come and help her. I talked with her this evening, and she said she was feeling better. Needless to say, she is going to have to be careful.

I have been back in Clinton since Wednesday evening, and am planning to stay in Clinton this weekend, with maybe a short trip to Goldsboro to check on things at the farm. I have gotten quite a ways behind at work, and have a couple of work opportunities in the next two weeks that need additional preparation, so much of my weekend will be geared toward that. I had a chance to visit with my Mom this evening, and she was in good spirits. Cindy called while I was there and she had a chance to talk with Mom also. I've had several conversations with Adam this week, and he is staying busy, and doing well.

I want to get in a couple of shout-outs. To Maria...Thanks for all the comments and encouragement, and you are only one of two who have mentioned the possibilites of song titles in places in the blog. The first one was Nelson. Kudos to both of you. To Al, Beverly, Grace, and Miriam...the doll is beautiful, and the cause is personal, thanks for your thoughtfulness, and Miriam you shouldn't have, but it is much appreciated! And to DKH, I hope you're not reading the blog at 3:00 a.m. anymore, but you have been an encouragement in your own inimitable way!

You may get tired of hearing it, but I never tire of repeating my appreciation to all of you for your thoughts, prayers, emails, phone calls, cards, and other acts of kindness. Though there may be times of difficulty, yet does God's grace abound, and some of His blessings are revealed in and through His children. May your day be blessed!

Taking Care of Business

Good Afternoon Everyone! We are still in Charlotte. Cindy completed her 9th radiation treatment of 15 today, and we also had some discussion with the radiation oncologist. He is pleased with the way things are going so far. Cindy has been experiencing some major reflux symptoms, which the oncologist said were symptomatic of the radiation treatment, and that it will likely get worse before it gets better. He did prescribe some medication to help alleviate the symptoms. I had not planned to stay up here this long, but we were able to get some doctor appointments rescheduled so this time will bear some additional fruit. Cindy has a follow-up appointment with her surgeon tomorrow morning along with the 10th radiation treatment later in the morning. She is moving around fairly well, but gingerly with the walker, and has quite a ways to go yet. Her wheel chair also provides additional mobility. David and Debbie have opened their house up to us as usual. Cindy has made her a very comfortable nest in their family room, which has ready access to restroom facilities and the kitchen. They continue to go out of their way to make our time here in Charlotte as comfortable as possible. Cindy's parents, Mac and Grace are still looking after Luci, and Shirley is taking care of things back in Clinton including keeping my mom's clothes washed. Shirley is visiting her this afternoon. The nursing home folks found mom out of bed this morning, and she had a skin tear on her elbow, which required a precautionary emergency room visit, but there appeared to be no other damage or problems. If all goes according to plan (they are constantly changing), I hope to be able to return to Clinton tomorrow afternoon. Thank you for your continued prayers, and as you pray for Cindy, please also include my mom.

Sweet Freedom

Good Morning Everyone! After a combined stay of 35 days at the Carolinas Medical Center and the Carolinas Rehabilitation Institute Cindy was able to "fly the coop" so to speak on Saturday. You know it's amazing how much one can accumulate in one spot in over a month's time. Couple that with necessary equipment for out-of-rehab living, and you have the recipe for 6 trips from the room to the car, and if I may be so bold that was one heck of a packing job that I put on that Toyota. TS Hannah did not intrude on our day of liberation, and as we pulled out of the parking lot the sun was shining. Cindy's first taste of freedom was a 2.5 hour trip from Charlotte to Raleigh, but I don't think she has ever been more delighted to be on the road. We made a couple of quick stops along the way, but she was focused on reaching the destination. We arrived in Raleigh around 1:30 p.m. to the waiting arms of her parents, and the happiest puppy dog I think I have ever seen. I coundn't tell who was happier, but one thing is for sure Luci was jumping higher than Cindy.
After all the greetings were over we set about preparing the guest room for wheel chair and walker access. Cindy has learned in the brief time we have been out of the hospital that it is a completely different ball game when one's mobility is limited. Placing items within reach and having space to retrieve them is of paramount importance. But she is facing these new challenges with the same dogged determination that has characterized her battle against this disease. We plan to spend Sunday and Sunday night here in Raleigh, and return to Charlotte on Monday morning. Cindy still has 8 radiation treatments scheduled, which should conclude by the middle of next week (September 17th). Transportation to and from the hospital and getting acclimated to limited mobility will continue to offer some challenges over the next week and a half, but our friends David and Debbie have offered their assistance for lodging and transportation (as usual), and are contacting some of their friends for assistance. Rebecca's daughter, Nancy has also offered her assistance. Throughout this process we are continually made aware of God's provision in so many ways, and of the faithfulness of our family and friends. One day at a time and one step at a time remain the order of things. Your continued prayers for God's guidance and healing touch are most appreciated. May you have a blessed day!

Leaving the Nest

Good Morning Everyone! It's looking like we are going to get a visit from Hannah here in the eastern part of the state tonight and tomorrow. I am planning not to be here to see it. Cindy is being discharged from the Rehab Institute tomorrow! I plan to go to Charlotte this afternoon and visit with her this evening, and tomorrow we will pack her stuff up and drive to Raleigh and spend the weekend with her parents and Luci. Cindy will get a radiation treatment today and have physical therapy and exercise. This will be her 7th radiation treatement of a planned 15. Therefore, she will need to return to Charlotte on Monday to resume her radiation treatments. As far as we know right now she will be staying with our dear friends, David and Debbie. We still have some transportation issues to figure out, but it looks like she will not be engaged in formal physical therapy for the duration of her radiation treatment, but she has at-home exercises to do, and we will get her set up for out-patient physical therapy when she returns to Clinton. That will also save on the trips to and from the hospital.
We really appreciate all of your thoughts and prayers for they are such a blessing and a comfort to us, and we are confident that your prayers and God's grace and mercy continue to move Cindy closer to recovery. In addition to your prayers we have been blessed with emails, phone calls, cards, and so many acts of kindness along the way. Yesterday we received a beautiful card and a wonderful gift from my Clinton Cape Fear Farm Credit co-workers and friends: Amy, David, Gloria, Jay, Joel, Melissa, Nelson, Randy, Sylvia, Tonya, and Vickie. We have so much to be thankful for. Everywhere I go people come up to me and ask how Cindy is doing, and we have no idea how many people are praying for us, but we know that friends and family, and friends of friends and family have been added to a long list of folks that have been with us on this journey. We ask for your continued prayers as Cindy completes her treatment and continues her recovery. May you know God's blessing and feel His presence today.

New Month

Hey Everybody! We hope you all had a good holiday weekend. I came back to Clinton on Monday evening, stopping by Raleigh to visit Cindy's mom and dad, Mac and Grace, and to pick up Luci for a spell. Mac had grilled some pork tenderloin and Grace had fixed some scrumptious vegetables for supper. That sure was good!
Overall, Cindy had what I would consider a good weekend. We enjoyed a good visit with our Clinton friends, Jeff, Sarah, and Luke on Sunday. Our Charlotte friend, Debbie continues to be such a help to Cindy, and was busy Saturday helping get Cindy's room, flowers, cards, and incidentals in order. Debbie and David take turns coming to visit, when they don't come together, and they have really been such a blessing to both of us.
Cindy is still working on the elimination functions, but the physical and occupational therapy seem to be going very well. It has been 26 days since the surgery. Cindy has been diligent in her exercises, and pushing herself to become more mobile. Unless there are changes, it appears that she has progressed well enough physically that she is to be released from the Rehab hospital this coming Saturday (apparently just in time for Hannah). As of today she has had 4 radiation treatments out of a proposed series of 15, which means she will need 11 more. Since she can only get 1 a day, and none on the weekends, that means that she will likely need to remain in Charlotte through next week and into the week after next (probably until September 17th). We have not determined what arrangements we will make, but God's provision has seen us through thus far, and we are convinced that He will continue to provide. We ask that you continue to remember Cindy in prayer. This type of cancer is notoriously tenacious, and has been particularly so since it has moved to her back. We believe that we are doing what is medically appropriate, and with your help we are hopeful that our petitions to the Great Physician will, by His grace, bear healing fruit for Cindy. "Call unto me and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which though knowest not." Jeremiah 33:3 May you all know God's rich blessings today!

Sunny Sunday

Good Afternoon Everyone! This is the second attempt to post to the blog this afternoon. I apparently just lost the first one a few minutes ago. Stuff Happens! Isn't that a pretty lady on the left? She is enjoying a relatively quiet Sunday with no therapy or radiation scheduled. We have had home folks come by. Our friends, Jeff, Sarah, and Luke came by yesterday to drop off our mail from Clinton and some gifts. And our friends from Greenville, Nick and Heather, campus missionaries at ECU came by Saturday after the thrilling Pirate's victory at Bank of America stadium. Our Charlotte friend, Debbie spent most of the day with Cindy yesterday giving me a respite from the hospital, and producing something of a make over in Cindy's room (it sure looks ggod). David and I were able to spend some quality time together, and I was able to get some good rest in a comfortable spot. Cindy is enjoying the gifts that Jeff and Sarah delievered from some Clinton friends, Wendy and Kim and Kathleen and Chick.

How about that Walking Lady on the right? She is sporting a combo ensemble comprised of pajamas and earrings from the Walking Ladies of Fox Lake, and a bed jacket from her sister-in-law, Kim. You can't see it, but there is a safety wheel chair behind her. We paused for a photo op during a short walk down the hall this afternoon. Cindy is scheduled to have radiation each day this week, as well as physical and occupational therapy. As of now, I plan to head back toward Clinton sometime tomorrow, stopping by Raleigh to pick up Little Luci to give Mac and Grace, her grandparents a much deserved break. We have had quite a bit of practice lately with our one-day-at-a time modus operandus, and we are well aware that things can change. We hope you are all enjoying a fun-filled Labor Day weekend, and we thank you all for your continued thoughts and prayers!

Potential Setback?

Hey Everybody! I hope you have all had a good week. Cindy's week has been something of a mixed bag. She has been doing well in physical therapy through Wednesday when she walked from one end of the therapy room to the other (probably 200 feet). Yesterday she had a terrible heartburn/reflux reaction in the morning. We don't know if this was a result of limited breakfast followed by medication, or if there was some other reason. Consequently, she did not get therapy yesterday, although we did go for a walk. Today it appears that her legs are a little weaker than they were yesterday and earlier in the week, and her toes were tingling. This was reported by the therapists to the rehab doctor, who also talked with the radiation oncologists. Initially we thought this might lead to another MRI, however ultimately the doctors made the decision for Cindy to get a radiation treatment this afternoon, which will be followed by another tomorrow. They also plan to resume further radiation on Tuesday. Needless, to say this is not exactly the direction we were hoping to go in this weekend, but it appears to be the most prudent. Just as we did when we first came up to Charlotte on 08/01/08 and as we have since then, we plan to take things one day at the time.
On a lighter note we are enjoying a bag full of good stuff from our friend, Judy, a basket full of goodies that our friends, Billy and Sylvia and Donnie and Judye and their families sent, and Cindy is tickled pink with several clothing items and accessories that the Walking Ladies of Fox Lake (Ann, Annabelle, Betty Jo, Jane, and Mollie) sent.
Obviously, this journey has additional steps to be taken. Your encouragement through your thoughts, prayers, cards, emails, comments, phone calls, etc. are most appreciated. We continue to solicit your prayers for Cindy!

Adjustments

Hey Folks! It is early Tuesday evening, and I am still in Clinton. I came home on Sunday, but I have been in frequent contact with my sweetie since then. The last couple of days have had their challenges. Cindy continues to experience the muscle spasms that typically accompany back surgery. Some of them have been particularly intense. She called me last night a little after 12:00, and was having a rather tough time getting past a big spasm. We are in the midst of processing additional information as time goes on, and it appears that there will be some changes from what we had tentatively planned.
Based on my conversation with the radiation oncologist today after his discussion with the neurosurgeon, the area that needs to be radiated is larger than what we had initially anticipated. Consequently, we will not need to utilize the specialized Novalis machine, which is used to target smaller areas. They do not plan to start radiation this week, but we will be considering options including the possibility of getting the radiation treatments somewhere other than Charlotte. Complicating this decision somewhat is the fact that Cindy still needs physical and occupational therapy. The rehab doctor indicated that he would like for her to remain in the Center until the end of next week, but we probably need to start radiation before then. And there continues to be issues with elimination functions.
Cindy has been in the hospital/rehab for 25 days now, and is really missing home and her puppy. I plan to go back up to Charlotte tomorrow (Wednesday), and will probably leave around lunch time. This will put another familiar face back in the mix, and will also allow me to be immediately and personally available to meet and talk with the doctors, and for Cindy and I to be able to talk face to face about the best course of action. I believe this is necessary since we are thinking we will have to alter what we had been planning. It is not unusual in circumstances like this to have to change course after an initial navigation plan has been put in place.
We thank you for your walking with us, and we solicit your continued prayers for wisdom to make the most appropriate decisions to enhance Cindy's care, and that God will open the doors He wants us to walk through, and close the ones He does not want us to use. We ask that you pray also for the painful spasms to ease, and for her to be able to get needed rest that will allow her to fully engage in the physical and occupational therapy she needs to become more mobile. We further request that you continue to pray that God would apply His limitless healing power to bear in this situation. I would like to offer up two verses for prayerful consideration this evening:

"The Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does He withhold from those whose walk is blameless." Psalm 84:11

" Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." Phillipians 4:6

Thank you for your thoughts, prayers, and all manner of kindnesses with which you bless us. May God richly bless each of you.

Sunday

Good Evening All! I have been in Charlotte since Thursday evening, but am now back in Clinton for a short stay. Cindy has appointments on Tuesday morning, and I plan to go back up for the appointment with the radiation oncologist, and we will see how things go from there. The recovery trail continues to be a slow ride this go-round, and Cindy has had recurring muscle spasms this weekend. I suspect that some of the impetus for the spasms, in addition to the fact that these are typically part and parcel of back surgery, is her activity, which has increased this weekend. In addition to her therapy yesterday, we went outside (she was in her wheel chair and I was pushing her). We repeated that scenario today. The weather was just beautiful with a nice breeze blowing yesterday, and it was just as pretty today, just quite a bit warmer. Please see the adventurers below.










I don't know how the photographer managed to get in that last picture. He must have long arms, and it's beginning to look like his hair is coming back.......all the way back. Anyway, that sure is a pretty girl in the blue and green outfit isn't it? This area is just outside the main entrance to Carolinas Medical Center. Prior to our going out, our friends, Dave and Debbie came for a visit. They continue to be such a blessing and an encouragement to us. They have certainly made this lengthy out-of-town stay much more tolerable for both Cindy and I. We do not yet know when Cindy's radiation will begin, or when she may be coming home. Hopefully, we will have a number of questions answered on Tuesday, and will advise all of our prayer partners. You have all been so faithful with your thoughts and prayers, and I really don't know where we would be without God's grace and our brothers and sisters in Christ. Please continue to pray for wisdom for Cindy's doctors and other attendants, for healing for Cindy, for travel mercies for me, and for endurance, strength, courage, and wisdom for both of us. God bless each of you!

Good Morning

Hey Everybody! I have had the opportunity to join Cindy in her "upper extremity group" and her "gait endurance group" this a.m. The picture on the bottom shows Cindy with her walker, and with her physical therapist for the morning gait session, Cindy. They are getting ready to walk across the mat. Cindy had already walked from one end of the room to the other (quite a long distance) with the walker and her therapist. The next picture shows Cindy after she had walked across the mat, and heading around to the other side . The gait training occured after the upper extremity activity where we (yes we) stretched and exercised our upper body. Cindy had to overcome a rather significant muscle spasm in her lower back this morning, but she endured and was able to get through the exercise and the gait work. She was not able to negotiate the high step you see in the background on the top photo, but was able to to step up on one about 1/2 the height. We are now back in the room. The spasm has recurred, and along with that she is having to endure being "cathed". Lunch is on the way, and pain medication in about 30 minutes, so hopefully a nap is in her near future. Therapy is over for today (not as much on weekend days as during the week). We hope all of you are having a good weekend! Thanks for tuning in!

End of 3rd Week

Good Afternoon Everyone! I hope you have not given up on me due to the lack of a recent post. Over the last 2 days Cindy has continued to participate in both physical and occupational therapy. It's currently 1:00 p.m. Friday afternoon, and I am at the Rehab Institute with Cindy. She had a little rough stretch yesterday afternoon, but things seem to be going better now. I got here last night and visited for a while, but left a little after 11:00 p.m. Cindy had an MRI last night from about 12:00 until 2:00 a.m. This morning I went with her to radiology to have the Novalis simulation (the machine that will provide the radiation therapy). They have the initial markings in place, and her radiation oncologist and neurosurgeon will examine the scans, and determine the time and extent of radiation. She has an appointment with radiology next Tuesday at 11:00 a.m., and will likely begin the radiation therapy thereafter next week. I have also been with Cindy to her physical and occupational therapy sessions today. She is moving better, and walked a good distance today with the walker. She still has balance issues and her left leg is not as strong as the right. She has been up most of the morning, is tired, and has gotten back into bed to take a nap. The elimination issues continue to be a work in progress, but she can get out of bed and into a wheel chair by herself, although she is not yet released to that activity when alone. She still requires a significant amount of pain medication, which should diminish over time.
I had been back in Clinton since late last Friday night, and have been back at work this week, and taking care of various and assorted things that had gone undone for the previous two weeks. Our Mint Hill friends, Dave and Debbie have been keeping a check on Cindy each day this week, visiting with her and helping with any needs she may have. I am also very fortunate in that all the folks at Cape Fear Farm Credit are very family oriented, and are also very understanding when it comes to matters of family health issues. I came back through Raleigh late yesterday, and left our puppy, Luci with Mac and Grace, Cindy's mom and dad. I think they were all glad to see each other. I plan to be up here at least through sometime Sunday, and will probably come back up on Tuesday when Cindy has her appointment with radiation oncology. Her return home now depends on her mobility/elimination progress and on the number radiation treatments she will need. Cindy has been enjoying all of the cards she has received. We are grateful to all of you for the many ways you have reached out and touched us. Most of all we continue to be grateful and humbled by your prayers. "The Lord is far from the wicked, but He hears the prayer of the righteous". Proverbs 15:29 We will continue to reach out through this blog, and we hope that you will continue to journey with us. Have a great day!

Tuesday Evening

Good Evening Everyone! I have talked with Cindy several times today. The last two days have been something of a mixed bag. She continues to have issues with the restoration of elimination functions, and will probably experience a period of time of resorting to self-catheterization. Her hemaglobin is low, and this is contributing to her feeling tired, although she is enjoying her physical therapy. She told me today that she had been on the stationary bike about 17 minutes during one session. Her right leg remains stronger than her left, and she cannot move the left one as well as the right. She has not been sleeping very well at night, because the nurses have to wake her for various things, and sometimes she has difficulty getting back to sleep. So she naps in between her sessions with the therapists.
We are not sure right now when the radiation treatments will begin, but that should be resolved in a couple of days. According to her social worker, her planned stay will culminate on August 28th, at least that is apparently what the insurance company is saying. As far as I'm concerned she can come home just as soon as she is ready. As you can tell, she still has some distance left on the journey. Not that either of us believed this was going to be a short-term proposition, but I just offer that observation as fodder for continued prayer. I read a statement some years ago that I believe rings true for God's people here on earth: "A child of God is immortal until God is finished with him (her)". One of the beautiful things unsaid in that statement is that if we have accepted Jesus Christ as our personal saviour, even when our work on earth is finished, we are still immortal. I know Cindy is being used by God for his purposes, a role she does not shy away from, and I don't think God is finished with her. Your continued thoughts and prayers for her well-being, for her continued healing, for clarity and peace of mind, and for strength for each day are welcome and most appreciated. I hope each of you has had a good day, and I pray God's rich and continued blessings on you all.

Sunday Evening

Hey Everybody! I just talked with Cindy for what will likely be the last time today. Her day got off to a rather rocky start as she continued to have some body function problems, however by around midday she had some resolution to those issues, and wound up having a very good afternoon and evening. Having had two major back surgeries in less than 8 weeks and taking a substantial amount of medication really plays havoc with one's system. She did not have any therapy scheduled for today, and that is probably a very good thing. She did have a good visit with our friends, Dave and Debbie late this morning, and early this evening one of Cindy's good friends and former teaching partner and graduate schoolmate, Martha and her husband, Harvey come up from Pinehurst. Cindy, of course was really happy to see them all. She has been fielding some phone calls, but the medication she is on makes her really sleepy from time to time, and sometimes she fades out. It appears that she has a rather full schedule for tomorrow with nearly 2 hours of OT in the morning and PT in the afternoon.
I had the privilege of being back in Sunday School and church at First Methodist this morning. It was so good to see everyone, and to be back in the choir. One of the couples in our Sunday School class, Greg and Ulla invited me to their home for lunch today, and we had a delicious meal and good fellowship. I hadn't seen their son, Anthony in quite some time. He's on the football team, and ready for the Clinton Dark Horses to have a really good season. After lunch I went to Mary Gran to visit my mom. She apparently didn't sleep very well last night, and was rather tired, but it was good to see her. Luci is feeling better today, and acting more like her usual effervescent self, but she is still missing her momma. I continue sorting through two weeks worth of mail, and I plan to go to work tomorrow, and see if I can begin the catch-up process in earnest. Cindy is scheduled to start radiation on Thursday, and so I will likely be heading back to Charlotte by then. Thanks in advance for your continued prayers for Cindy for strength, courage, endurance, and continued healing. We are very humbled by all of your expressions of concern, well wishes, fellowship, and encouragements.

Saturday

Good Day All! This is the first full day in two weeks that I have not spent any time in person with Cindy. Fortunately, the prevalence of cell phones provides us with the ability to connect most any time we want. I have talked with her 3 times today, and she has had a good day with physical therapy in the morning and occupational therapy in the afternoon. This morning she walked 130 feet two times with the walker and the therapist. Cindy is very determined to get the most out of this form of therapy. Our friend, Debbie who lives in Mint Hill visited with her for much of the afternoon. She has really been a breath of fresh air, and along with her husband, David have surprised us on occasion with milk shakes or some other goodies, and they have also helped us in very pragmatic ways such as washing clothes, and opening their home to us.
I have had the opportunity to run a number of errands today including checking on things back at the farm, and visiting with my cousins, Diane, Jeff, Diane's son, Donnie, and my aunt Elizabeth, Dad's sister, and other neighbors and friends including Jim and Ed. Jeff and Diane have been following along on the blog, and have been keeping folks informed back on Gurley Dairy Road.
Our puppy, Luci has been a little under the weather. I did take her to see Dr. Henry today just to make sure that she got the attention she needed. I really believe the the most pressing issue with her is that she is missing her momma Cindy. Luci has really been a joy and comfort to Cindy since she became a member of the family last November, and I know Cindy is looking forward to seeing her to.
Our fellow believer and church member, Rebecca has been talking with Cindy or I nearly every day since we have been in Charlotte, and she is working to make sure that the bible studies she and Cindy have implemented/planned are going forward.
Your continued thoughts and prayers are very much an encouragement and a source of hope for us. I look forward to seeing many of you at First Methodist in the morning.

Two Weeks

Good Day Everyone! I find it difficult to comprehend that we have been in Charlotte for two weeks. Actually on the two week anniversary of our late night trip to Charlotte, I have reversed course, and have come back to Clinton. I left my Sweetie in good hands. She has a very good doctor, and is getting to know the nurses, aides, and nursing students at the Rehab Hospital. By the way, her address is:

Lucinda Gurley
Room 121
Charlotte Institute of Rehabilitation
1100 Blythe Blvd.
Charlotte, NC 28203

It's hard to be gone for two weeks, and since Cindy is improving and doesn't need me quite as much, and she is going to be in both physical and occupational therapy quite a bit during the day, and resting in between, we decided that it would be a good idea for me to come back for a few days and pick up the reins and loose ends on things that are going on here. Cindy's mom and dad, Grace and Mac have been diligent in taking good care of our puppy, Luci, and we thought they might need a bit of a break. So I stopped by Raleigh and picked up Luci.
You all know that the world doesn't stop turning even if you feel like you have stepped off and out of your routine for a spell. There are bills to pay, errands that can only be run by the one who knows the need and can find that document that needs to be mailed or faxed. My mother has also been under the weather a bit, and so this will give me a chance to visit her.
We received excellent care at the Medical Center and the nurses and staff were great. I am hopeful and believe that will continue at the Rehab Hospital. We do not know what the length of Cindy's stay will be. That will depend on her progress in getting up to speed with her balance, mobility, and function. She is tentatively scheduled for radiation therapy to begin next Thursday, and we do not know at this juncture what the time frame will be for that.
Cindy has come a long way from where she was two weeks ago tonight, but there are steps on this journey yet to be taken. We are so grateful that each of you have been sharing this journey with us, and we ask that you continue to bear with us, that you continue to lift Cindy up in prayer, and it is our hope that God's grace will continue to enfold her.
It is getting late, and I better close, and I would like to do so with one of Cindy's favorite scripture passages, a portion of Paul's prayer for the Ephesians: "Now unto him that is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen." Ephesians 3:20-21

Friday

Good Morning Everyone! Cindy got settled in at the rehab hospital late yesterday afternoon. We had to answer a battery of questions, but everyone has been very nice. The doctor (cancer rehab specialist) spent about 30 minutes with us, before the nurses came in to get vitals and assist us with the paperwork. This is going to be a different deal than the hospital. For one they did not have the setup for me to spend the night, so I left about 8:00 p.m. and spent the night at our friend's, Dave and Debbie (that bed was very comfortable after sleeping in a recliner for two weeks). Two weeks! I can hardly believe it. I am actually writing this on their computer, since Cindy has an occupational therapy evaluation this morning, and an early afternoon physical therapy evaluation. She continues to experience periodic, painful spasms in her back muscles, which are typically a result of back surgery. Those attending to her are working to minimize the spasms. I plan to return to the rehab center early this afternoon. We do not know at this juncture how long Cindy will be in rehab, but it appears likely that she (insurance company allowing) will be there at least until her radiation is scheduled to begin, which is next Thursday, and possibly longer. I will need to take part in some of the rehab sessions as they have some training for the primary caregiver assisting the patient after her return home. Cindy and I have had quite a bit of experience with hospitals, but this is a new and different opportunity here. We are very grateful to have come this far, and with your prayers and God's grace, we plan to make the most of this continued journey. Have a great day!

Moving Day

Good Afternoon Everyone! Cindy is having a good day. She went for a walk with her walker and the physical therapist this morning, and she also had another stroll with the walker and some of the nice nurses we have here. Doesn't she look good? She is wearing the PJs and roge that her sister-in-law, Kim gave her last Saturday. We have just received some very good news. After diligent efforts by the rehab hospital staff, we have received approval from the insurance company to transfer to to the rehab hospital located on the same campus and actually adjacent to the Medical Center where we are currently located. And they have a private room. I believe that Cindy is ready to move to the next level, and to work hard toward getting all of her mobility back. We thank you all for your continued prayers, and we believe that they are being heard, and that we are getting some positive responses. We will let you know when we get settled in at the rehab hospital.

Here We Are

Hey Everybody! Well, we are still in Rm. # 9933 at CMC. We have been thinking all day that we would be moving to the Rehab Hospital, but not today. Still not clear on whether it's an insurance issue or lack of room availabilty. We have made a lot of friends here, and maybe we are just not through with that yet.
Cindy has had something of a rebound day today. We don't know if maybe she over did it yesterday, but she has experienced more pain, and consequently has required more medication. Still, she was able to engage in some physical therapy this morning, and occupational therapy this afternoon, although she did not walk as far as the day before. And she has been able to sleep some. Our friend, Debbie came by for a visit after she got off work, and brought us one of Cindy's favorites, Chick-Fil-a. That was very fortuitous also, for apparently the dietary folks thought Cindy was going to rehab today to, and did not bring her any dinner. This is our 12th day in Charlotte....my, how time flies. We continue to be lifted by your thoughts and prayers, and we appreciate your participation in this journey. We hope each of you are having a good week!

Tuesday's Gone

Good Evening Everyone! It's late in the evening, the Olympics are on the TV, and Cindy is napping periodically (actually more napping than periodically). Today has been a good day. Cindy continues to make progress in all areas. In my non-professional opinion she has made substantial strides (pardon the pun) in her ability to ambulate. This morning when the physical therapy folks came, she was able to get up and off the bed almost solely on her own power. Then using a walker and with the PT techs at her side, she walked from her room to the end of the hall (about 80 feet). She sat down for a couple of minutes and performed some exercises the tech suggested, and then returned to the room the same way she left. Her strength and endurance is very low, her gait is not yet completely steady, and she still has some balance issues, but she is way beyond where she was. Praise the Lord!
We are not sure at this time what the next few days will hold. We are hoping that Cindy will be able to move from Carolinas Medical Center to the CMC Rehab hospital here on the same campus, possibly as early as Wednesday (tomorrow), however there are some insurance issues to deal with prior to knowing if or where we will go.
We have been away from home for 11 days now. Our friend, Shirley has been picking up the mail, watering the flowers/plants, washing my mom's clothes, and taking care of other things around the house. We left home in a hurry, and Cindy did not have the clothes she will need if she goes to rehab, so we contacted our friend, Diane (who along with our friend, Robin has been checking on my mom at Mary Gran Nursing Center). Diane picked up the mail from the house and she also gathered some clothes, etc. for Cindy, and took them to the Clinton Cape Fear Farm Credit office. Our friend and co-worker, Randy along with his wife, Bonnie brought the clothes, mail, and some work opportunites to Raleigh where I met them late this afternoon. It was good to get back out on the open road, and see some home folks. Randy and Bonnie took me out to eat at Logan's at White Oak Crossing. Their meeting me there saved about 2 1/2 hours by not having to go all the way to Clinton, and the steak was delicious. Our friend, Debbie was with Cindy much of the time I was on the road.
God is so good! We are just so blessed to have friends, family, and even strangers (friends we haven't met yet) to share this journey with us, and be so willing to pitch in where they can to help us, in addition to all the thoughts and prayers that they have lifted up, and that we have been the beneficiaries of. Thought for the day....."A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity." Proverbs 17:17.

Evening....tired

Hey All! Our pastor at First Methodist, Dr. Ed came to visit with us today. We had a lengthy and very enjoyable visit, and Ed and I had lunch together. Cindy has had a busy afternoon. She had a rather lengthy session/evaluation with an occupational therapist, which required some additional rest thereafter. Then a doctor from the CMC Rehab hospital, adjacent to where we are now, came and also did an evaluation, and talked with us about rehab potential. They currently do not have a bed available, so we don't know about the timetable for that opportunity. Although somewhat distant from home, all of her cancer-related physicians are here, and this is where she will have radiation therapy, assuming all goes well in approximately two weeks. Our friend, David came by for a visit today, as did Marion, Cindy's cousin, Hayes' wife. After all her activity today, she is in some pain, but it is being treated, and hopefully that will be alleviated shortly. We hope each of you had a good Monday, and got your week off to a good start. Thought for the evening, "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust." Surely he will save you from the fowler's snare and from the deadly pestilence. Psalm 91:1-3

Monday, Monday

Good Morning, Everyone! Yes it is Monday. This is Cindy's 10th day at CMC. All the IVs are gone. The dressing is off the surgical site, and the drain is out. Physical therapy has been this morning. Cindy sat on the side of the bed with only limited assistance, stood and sat 3 times, completed some exercieses, and then with a walker and physical therapy assist walked out of the room, down the hall to the next room, and back. Though it required a lot of effort, and tired her significantly, nevertheless it was substantial progress. Dr. Coric, the neurosurgeon has been this morning, and believes that things are progressing well. Cindy now has her sights set on moving from the hospital to rehab, possibly as early as tomorrow, but we are not sure at this point, and will just have to see. We are praising the Lord for the success of her surgery, her progress thus far, for her continued improvement, and strength and endurance for the challenges ahead. We are so thankful for all of you, our prayer partners. You continue to stand with us in prayer and petition. God is Good!

Carry On

Hey Everybody! Thought I would place a short comment tonight while watching some of the Olympics, and in between some work opportunities. Cindy is sleeping now. She did have physical therapy this afternoon, and although she was a little disappointed, I thought she did well. She sat up on the bed mostly under her own power, and stood at the walker with a slight assist from the therapy tech. She continued, sitting twice and then standing, and then walked to the door from one side of the room using the walker and with therapist assist. I think she was hoping that she would be able to walk to the end of the hall, but even these short jaunts are encouraging. The effort did tire her, and she was able to nap some this afternoon. We are looking forward to a conversation with the surgeon tomorrow morning. Hope you all have a good evening and a great Monday!

Pleasant Sunday

Good Day All! It's almost 2:00 p.m., and Cindy has had a good day. Our dear Mint Hill friend, Debbie graciously volunteered to spend the night with Cindy last night, and that gave me an opportunity to visit with her husband, Dave who grilled some delicious pork tenderloin on the grill and prepared the accoutrements. It was good to be able to stretch out on a couch and bed to sleep, and spend some time with Dave. Cindy said Debbie was an excellent guardian and comforter. We are very grateful to both of them for all they have done for us.
Cindy is now on oral pain meds, and off the PCA pump, and is not getting any fluids by IV. She sat on the side of the bed to eat lunch today, but has not yet had physical therapy. She is "reading the paper" and taking a nap right now. We will not see our primary surgeon until tomorrow, so we don't yet know how the plan will play out for the balance of the week. Cindy's ability to move appears to continue to increase, and she has been enjoying the pajamas and bed jacket that her sister-in-law Kim brought her yesterday. We just learned that PT is on their way up, so Cindy is going to have an opportunity to test her agility.
We continue to be uplifted by your thoughts, PRAYERS, emails, and calls. My good friend, Willie emailed me the following. It has been a blessing to both Cindy and I, and I thought that all of blog readers might receive a blessing from it to.

"At first I saw God as my observer, my judge, keeping track of the things I did wrong, so as to know whether I merited heaven or hell when I die. He was out there sort of like a president. I recognized his picture when I saw it, but I really didn't know Him. But later on, when I met God, it seemed as though life were rather like a bike ride, but it was a tandem bike, and I noticed that God was at the back, helping me pedal.

I don't know when it was that he suggested that we change places, but life has not been the same since. When I had control I knew the way. It was rather boring, but predictable. It was the shortest distance between two points. But when he took the lead, He knew delightful long cuts, up mountains, and through rocky places at breakneck speeds. It was all I could do to hang on!

Even though it looked like madness, He said, "Pedal!" I worried and was anxious and asked, "Where are you taking me?" He laughed and didn't answer! and I started to learn to trust. I forgot my boring life and entered into the adventure. And when I'd say "I'm scared," He'd lean back and touch my hand.

He took me to people with gifts that I needed; gifts of healing, acceptance and joy. They gave me gifts to take on my journey. And we were off again. He said, "Give the gifts away; they're extra baggage, too much weight." So I did, to the people we met, and I found that in giving I received, and still our burden was light.

I did not trust Him, at first, in control of my life. I thought He'd wreck it; but he knows bike secrets, knows how to make it bend to take sharp corners, knows how to jump to clear high rocks, knows how to fly to shorten scary passages. And I am learning to shut up and pedal in the strangest places, and I'm beginning to enjoy the view and the cool breeze on my face with God as my delightful constant companion.

And when I'm sure I just can't do anymore, He just smiles and says . . . "Pedal!"

Author Unknown

I will post again this evening after Cindy has physical therapy. God's blessings and peace on each of you.

Come Saturday Morning

Good Afternoon Everyone! I have experienced some internet and computer snafus this morning, but am hopeful that all of that is behind me, and we can move forward. Cindy slept well last evening and her pain management appears to be going well. She had a good, healthy breakfast this morning, and enjoyed a bed bath from a delightful nurse aide. She also had a much better experience with physical therapy this a.m. She was able to get up on the side of the bed with practically no assistance, and then with a walker and with limited help from the PT she was able to walk about 12 feet. After that she sat up on the side of the bed and ate a good lunch.
The father/father-in-law of our friends, Trevor and Maria came up on Wednesday for pre-op, and he had surgery also, and is on the same floor as Cindy. He is a retired Lutheran minister, and he and his wife, Jeannie had prayer with us prior to Cindy's surgery. Dennis and Jeannie came by Cindy's room this morning, and he appears to be doing very well.
Cindy's brother, Mac and his wife, Kim came up today from their home in Alpharetta, GA, visited with us most of the afternoon, and have just left. You can imagine how happy we were to see them.
We thank you for all the prayers you have been praying, and for your continued prayer for Cindy. So many friends and friends of friends have been lifting us up in prayer. Donald Coates is the friend of a friend of a friend, and Donald has emailed us that he is praying for Cindy. He is experiencing his own battle with cancer, and is currently in treatment. We have added him to our prayer list, and we hope that each of you will do the same. "The name of the Lord is a strong tower. The righteous run to it and are safe". We hope you all have a great day!

Morning After

Good Day All! As you can imagine this morning has been busy. The oncologist, neurosurgeon, and the pain clinic folks have all visited today. That was the easy part. The surgeon reiterated that he was pleased with the surgery. The pain clinic guys actually increased her pain medication. Then came the hard part. The lady from physical therapy was insistent that Cindy was going to walk at least a few steps this a.m. She really didn't want to, but being the trooper that she is, and with her intense desire to heal as rapidly as possible, Cindy, with assistance, did manage to sit on the edge of the bed, stand up, and take a few small steps with the walker. Quite frankly, I was amazed because I could see in her face and hear in her voice the effort that it required. Thankfully, since that time she has been able to rest and sleep some. We continue to be buoyed by your prayers, and we know that with your prayers and God's grace her recovery will continue, and hopefully will be rapid and complete.

Back In 9933

I am very pleased to report that Cindy has been released from the recovery room, and is back in her hospital room. She is still somewhat groggy and sleepy, but has a smile on her sleepy face and thus far her pain is under control. Roger and Jannet have been with me today in the surgical waiting area during Cindy's surgery, and are visiting with both Cindy and I now. It has been nice to have them here. You have all been a comfort to us through your thoughts, prayers, and well wishes. We have made it through the surgery and into the recovery phase. We ask you for your continued prayers as The Journey continues.

Recent Post-Surgery

I have just spoken with the neurosurgeon. Cindy is out of surgery and headed to the recovery room. According to the surgeon the operation went just as he had anticipated. There was recurrent tumor where Cindy had the most recent surgery, and it was causing spinal cord compression, which apparently had caused her recent symptoms. They removed all the tumor they could see, and Cindy actually had less blood loss than he had expected. She is not yet awake, so it will take some time before we know about her ability to function. Nevertheless, this interim report certainly appears to be good news. Please continue to pray for Cindy's full and complete recovery, and for the success of any adjunctive therapy that may be necessary.

Surgery

The nurses woke us up at 5:30 a.m. this morning, and transport came to get Cindy at 6:00. I stayed with her in pre-op until 7:20. She is good spirits, calm, and hopeful. We thank you for your continued prayers, and are praying for the surgeon and attendants and asking the Lord for a good result from the surgery.

Wednesday Night

We had a singing and praying time in Room 9933 at Carolinas Medical Center this evening. Our friends, Roger and Jannet, from Wilmington came up. Shortly after they arrived some of our friends from Charlotte, Debbie, David, Bill, and Barb showed up with music books and two guitars. For the next hour+ we enjoyed singing the Lord's praises and prayer time. The nurses and some of the other patients also enjoyed the singing. Afterward, Cindy and Jannet had some time to visit, and Roger and I had the opportunity to go out for a brief respite from the hospital and a bite to eat. We are so grateful for all the people who are thinking about us and praying for us. That is such a blessing and a comfort! We are hoping for good things tomorrow, and trusting in the Lord.

Countdown

Good Day All! It is approximately 5:15 p.m. on Wednesday. We have consulted with the neurosurgeon, oncologist, radiation oncologist, anesthesiologist, and nurse anesthetist today. Needless to say it has been a full day. As of now Cindy's surgery is scheduled for around 7:20 a.m. tomorrow (Thursday) give or take a few minutes. We are asking all of our prayer partners to keep us lifted up between now and then and through the day tomorrow. You are all precious to us, and we appreciate each and every one of you.

Decision Time

Good Morning, Everyone! We had a lengthy consult with the radiation oncologist late yesterday afternoon. The gist of that conversation is that the type of cancer Cindy has is resistant to radiation which we have known for sometime. Therefore, the likelihood of obtaining substantial tumor reduction with radiation alone is very remote. The gold standard for this type of cancer is "if you can cut it out, do it". The ideal condition for this surgery would be if it was the first surgery, and Cindy had not had any radiation at this site. Since that is not the case, the risks are automatically heightened. These risks include two previous surgeries and radiation at the site, as well as increased scar tissue, all of which can complicate both the surgery and the healing. The fact that she had a surgery at this site only 7 weeks ago also heightens the risk for infection, and potentially lengthens the recovery time.

Cindy and I had a lengthy discussion and prayer time last evening. We had another meeting with the neurosurgeon and the oncologist this morning, and a phone call with the radiation oncologist. Cindy is currently getting a steroid IV, which is believed to be providing some of the inflammation relief that is allowing for her increased mobility. However, the steroid use is short term, and cannot provide long term benefit. Therefore, if we do nothing Cindy is likely to lose additional function, and possibly incur increased pain. Information from the oncologist suggests that this type of cancer is resistant to radiation, and consequently in all probability will not likely be adequate to reduce the bulk of tumor to the point that it could alleviate the symptoms. Therefore, we arrive back at surgery with the heightened potential for complications (greatest risk), but with currently the most potential for maintaining/recovering body function and extending normal activity (greatest gain). After much discussion and prayer, we believe this is the direction in which we are being led to go. The surgery is being scheduled for tomorrow morning (we do not yet know what time). Assuming all goes well with the surgery and recovery, the plan will be to follow it with radiation for adjunctive therapy, probably within two weeks.

We thank you all for your thoughts and prayers and we continue to solicit your prayers for wisdom, strength, courage, perseverence, faith, and hope, and a successful surgery. As you have opportunity, stay in touch.

Wednesday Afternoon

We have talked with the neurosurgeon this afternoon. He is convinced that Cindy's current difficulties are a result of tumor regrowth since the surgery, with the tumor compressing the spinal cord thus creating the symptoms (lack of control over elimination functions, decreased motor capacity, etc.). Our decisions at this point are 1) doing nothing at all, 2) whether or not to have surgery (with its increased risk - infection, spinal cord paralysis or other surgically-related issues, recovery time), 3) just radiation with its inherent risks, or 4) a combination of surgery and radiation. It is obvious that the tumor regrowth this last time was rapid, and that it could come back just as quick again even if Cindy has the surgery. While the decision does not have to be made today, it probably needs to be made by tomorrow. We want to talk again with the radiology oncologist, and hopefully we will be able to do that today.

On a positive note, Cindy has experienced increased motor ability (moving legs, sitting on edge of bed, and flexing feet) today, and has been out of bed twice with physical and occupational therapy, and has walked about 35 feet with a walker and the help of the therapists.

There appears to be no right or wrong decision here, only in which direction to go. Our prayer at this juncture is for wisdom and guidance to take the direction God would have us take. Thanks for your thoughts and prayers, and continue to lift us up to the One Who Knows All the Answers.

Inaugural Post

Good Afternoon Everyone,



I had given passing thought to this form of communication for some time, but have not taken advantage of it. I had a delightful conversation with our good friend, Jannet, this morning. She had been to a conference recently where the advantages of blogging were discussed, and she was of the opinion that this might be a good way for our family and friends to keep up with what's going on with Cindy. I agree. Thus, after a minimal on-line research, here we are. I don't know that I will post everyday, but will try to post often enough that folks can keep up with us and respond if they so desire. Some of my work friends may not be able to access the blog, but we will find out about that, and see what we can do to work around it.



Cindy has had a pretty good day thus far (Tuesday). We are waiting to talk with her neurosurgeon. We had a conference with her radiology oncologist yesterday, and she underwent a simulation on the apparatus that will likely deliver additional radiation to her back in the coming days. This is in addition to the steroids she is currently taking to reduce the inflammation. Cindy is able to move her legs and flex her feet to some degree, and thus far we have seen improvement every day. Movement is currently better in her right leg than in her left. Physical therapy came around 11:30 a.m. and with a walker and the therapist's help, Cindy was able to walk from her bed to the hallway. She does not currently have bladder and bowel control, so as with everything else, we are taking things a day at the time. I will provide updates as they are warranted, and we welcome your comments/questions. We thank you all for your thoughts and prayers, and hope each of you have a great day!