Hello Everyone:
Today is the first day of the rest of our lives. I must quote from Psalm 90:12-17 because this message was what permeated my mind today as we heard the pathology; especially Psalm 90:12.
"Teach me to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.
Relent, O Lord, How long will it be?
Have compassion on your servants.
Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love,
that we may sing for joy and be glad in all our days.
Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us,
for as many years we have seen trouble.
May your deeds be shown to your servants,
your splendor to their children.
May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us;
establish the work of our hands for us-
yes, establish the work of our hands."
The Lord has clearly demonstrated that He has established the work of Jack's hands. I commented to our children and the Drs. today that if we had accomplished half of what Jack has accomplished in his life, this world would be a better place. Jack has touch so many people in his life that it is unimaginable. Most of you know that scientifically, he has been recognized around the world. The country of France recognized him with an honorary doctors degree several years ago as did the Colorado College of Mines in the US. I could write pages of Jack's human accomplishments but he would be embarrassed. He has always commented that he has just worked hard. At an international symposium in Australia several years ago, he received a gold medal for his work. Courtenay was with him at this ceremony (flying for 24 hours is not something I do). When people came up to her and asked her what she thought about this great honor, her reply was - " I think he deserves it, he works really hard"!!! No one will argue with that statement.
Jack's hardest job will likely lie ahead. We met today with the neuro-oncologist and oncology-radiologist at MGH. I think we startled them when they walked into rooms with all of us there with him. Thankfully, Jonathan and Megan arrived safely. Jack's pathology is stage 4 (most aggressive) glioblastoma astrocytoma - translated as arising from the astrocyte cells naturally occuring in the brain. It is inoperable, incurable. The treatment goal is to arrest the growth. They often reoccur. It is the most common form of brain tumor that exists. The first appointment was with the neuro oncologist - Dr. Plotkin - he looked and acted more lawyer like complete with a bowtie. He was all business. When I asked what the life expectancy would be without treatment -he said a few months; and with treatment - he said we don't like to answer that question at this time - he has a patient that is 4 years out. Standard treatment is 30 days (6 weeks - 5 continous days/week) for radiation coupled with Tamodar (chemotherapy - 1 pill/day for 5 days/ month for the rest of his life). Of course, they immediately started introducing us to experimental drugs options; 3 people have done one of them; 17 people another; and the other one that have had 2 or 3. Jack has not decided on the experimental drugs. Dr. Plotkin told us that we need to schedule a radiology appointment and that it would be 1-2 weeks out; that the Drs are really backed up. I immediately said - our children are in from CA until Monday - is there any chance we could have an appointment today. They said they would try - the nurse came back and asked if we could be there at 12:45 PM. It was 10:30 AM at this time. How abundantly the Lord provides the most minute details of our lives - if I don't learn anything from this experience, I hope it is this point.
We got to the radiology department. We met with Dr. Helen Shih and her resident, Dr. Patel. Both very warm and caring - much less business like. The Lord knew we needed to be embraced in the sweetness of these two. She reiterated much of what Dr. Plotkin told us. Dr. Shih pointed out to us that the goal is arrest the growth and have as few side effects as possible to maintain quality of life for Jack as long as possible. We do not know what tomorrow holds for us but we are confident in who holds tomorrow. In order for his head not to move during the 2 minutes of treatment, they made a mask for him that will hold his head in one place. Radiation begins September 14 at 9:30 AM. Tamodar will begin at the same time along with any experimental tx we may consider. We are also going to include some alternative methods as well.
I told Jack that when we married that it was for better or worse. I think we both are thinking this is the better. We are sharing so many of our feelings. Our Jonathan and Megan have decided that they are moving back to spend as much time with us as possible and support us in all ways. This is an answer to prayer. Jack had just commented on how this event might bring Jonathan closer. If anyone knows anyone is post production at advertising companies, please contact Jonathan at 323-304-8269 or jon@apelike.net. Megan is the international studies coordinator at Loyola University in LA. Ditto on Megan and a job for her.
It has been an arduous day but the Lord has sustained us through yet another beautiful day.
Carolee and Harry - I forgot to thank you for the lovely gift.
Karen, Jim, and children - thank you for the delicious dinner on Thursday evening.
You won't believe it but as of yesterday, we are out of pioneer land and back in the 21st century with running water in the kitchen - if anyone ever needs kitchen or bath updates or redo work, please contact Carole's Kitchen and Bath in Woburn at 781-933-3339 (Frank Purdy in particular or Gene Fredey)- they have bent over backwards to help us get our kitchen functional along with our Loftus Heating and Plumbing in Winchester and Bob Holbrook, our wonderful electrician - amazing efforts from these wonderful people. They were like an orchestra playing in this house yesterday. They completed their jobs in time for me to go get Megan and Jonathan.
We want to thank all of you sweet people for your love, care, compassion, and legions of prayers from around the globe. Thanks Benno for your call; thanks Ushe from Frankfurt for your call. Thanks to all of you for your reponsive emails.
I close with a quote from Job 42:1-2 - "Then Job replied to the Lord - I know that you can do all things; no plan of yours can be thwarted". Thanks be to God,
Carolyn
Friday, August 31, 2007
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Update
Hello all:
Hopefully, by tomorrow, emails will be sent directly to you from my address. Our command control manager, Jonathan, arrives tomorrow afternoon with his lovely wife, Megan. Jonathan has assured me that he will get this straightened out.
Today was another beautiful day in the neighborhood. Jack slept until 11 AM. I think he is enjoying the lack of demands on him. He said after his sitting down while showering that he might start sitting in there for 2 hours. I am not sure what he would look like after 2 hours but who knows, it may be the next cure for wrinkles.
Another blessing came our way today. I mentioned, I was redoing kitchen cabinets and counters. These 2 wonderful El Salvadorian men installed the counters. One of them said his mother was diagnosed 10 years ago with a brain tumor. She had been blinded and confined to a wheelchair as a result. After drugs were administered, she was healed. She is no longer blind or in a wheelchair. She does have some problems but very few. She is alive and well. I told him of how we are trusting God to care for us in this situation. He got a big smile on his face. He said it is the only way. When he left, he turned and said don't stop trusting God, it is the only thing that works. Can you begin to imagine all of the opportunities that the Lord is providing us? It is difficult to remember them all.
Jack is stronger each day but still needs assistance doing a few things. I have to force myself not to help him; but he keeps me out of his way. He frequently weeps when another call or card or email arrives. As Jonathan so beautifully put it, how can you not weep when all of this divine love is being poured out on you. Wow! Oh Lord, my God, how great thou art!
If I do not return phone calls in a timely way, please forgive me. Sometimes, I am answering 2 phones, answering the doorbell, etc. I am trying not to get over extended. I am working from home mostly with some appointments in the office. My clients have been fabulous and very supportive for which I am so greatful. Please remember Dana and Karen, my two wonderful staff people who are floating the boat right now.
Blessings and many thanks to all of you for your sweetness and care,
carolyn
Hopefully, by tomorrow, emails will be sent directly to you from my address. Our command control manager, Jonathan, arrives tomorrow afternoon with his lovely wife, Megan. Jonathan has assured me that he will get this straightened out.
Today was another beautiful day in the neighborhood. Jack slept until 11 AM. I think he is enjoying the lack of demands on him. He said after his sitting down while showering that he might start sitting in there for 2 hours. I am not sure what he would look like after 2 hours but who knows, it may be the next cure for wrinkles.
Another blessing came our way today. I mentioned, I was redoing kitchen cabinets and counters. These 2 wonderful El Salvadorian men installed the counters. One of them said his mother was diagnosed 10 years ago with a brain tumor. She had been blinded and confined to a wheelchair as a result. After drugs were administered, she was healed. She is no longer blind or in a wheelchair. She does have some problems but very few. She is alive and well. I told him of how we are trusting God to care for us in this situation. He got a big smile on his face. He said it is the only way. When he left, he turned and said don't stop trusting God, it is the only thing that works. Can you begin to imagine all of the opportunities that the Lord is providing us? It is difficult to remember them all.
Jack is stronger each day but still needs assistance doing a few things. I have to force myself not to help him; but he keeps me out of his way. He frequently weeps when another call or card or email arrives. As Jonathan so beautifully put it, how can you not weep when all of this divine love is being poured out on you. Wow! Oh Lord, my God, how great thou art!
If I do not return phone calls in a timely way, please forgive me. Sometimes, I am answering 2 phones, answering the doorbell, etc. I am trying not to get over extended. I am working from home mostly with some appointments in the office. My clients have been fabulous and very supportive for which I am so greatful. Please remember Dana and Karen, my two wonderful staff people who are floating the boat right now.
Blessings and many thanks to all of you for your sweetness and care,
carolyn
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Update
Hello everyone:
We got very good news today. Jack came home. I picked him around 9:30 AM. It was a glorious, beautiful late summer day that New Englander's like to refer to as a "New England" day. Since most New Englanders never leave the area, they don't really know that it a typical Southern CA day (all year).
Jack is in generally good spirits. On the way home, I told him that we were very happy before this happened and this new event will not steal that happiness. He is a little weak. I anticipate some nights in his own bed will have him much perkier. He occasionally weeps when he ponders the outpouring of love and care that we have received. He made a comment today about how magnificent and wonderful an event like this one can be. He said many people never have this opportunity to experience a glimpse of the divine, the Almighty God.
We are cherishing each moment. The Lord is graciously providing. A physical therapist evaluated our home today. He said the most dangerous place is the bathtub. He advised Jack not to attempt a shower until handrails were installed. I contacted our handy man, he was 40 miles away on a job. He said on his way home he would pick up the necessary rails and have them installed. The rails are installed. I might add that he is leaving for Bermuda tomorrow.
I met Patience this morning before Jack was dismissed. She is the lady whose prayer I sent out in yesterday's update. I told her that I sent out her prayer via email from sea to shining sea. Spontaneously, she said - "Hallelujah!". Oh, the tender mercies of our gracious God.
I asked Jack today if he was surprised about the diagnosis. He said no because he had thought about it as a possibility when he began to experience some symptoms. I am so thankful that only the motor function of his left side is affected at this point.
Our prayers have been answered for Courtenay. She seemed much better today. She came and spent time with him while I had an appointment at work.
Jack is anxious to see Enzo,the man that cuts his hair. He is going to tell him that the last hair cut just didn't get the job done, so he decided to fix it up. I told him that he will have to tell Enzo that he will never have to worry about Jack competing with his business. Laughter is such good medicine.
I don't recall if I mentioned it when this happened last week but we are in the process of replacing our 50 year old kitchen cabinets. Thankfully, we will have running water in the kitchen by Thursday morning. It is not unlike being a pioneer. I am so grateful to be alive with so many conveniences, most of the time.
Please continue to be prayful about our oncology appointment on Firday morning. Pray also that Jonathan and his dear wife, Megan, will have travel safety on Thursday.
These emails will continue to go through my command center in CA until the head of the center, Jonathan, arrives on Thursday and unravels his mother's email problems.
Blessings to all of you,
Carolyn
We got very good news today. Jack came home. I picked him around 9:30 AM. It was a glorious, beautiful late summer day that New Englander's like to refer to as a "New England" day. Since most New Englanders never leave the area, they don't really know that it a typical Southern CA day (all year).
Jack is in generally good spirits. On the way home, I told him that we were very happy before this happened and this new event will not steal that happiness. He is a little weak. I anticipate some nights in his own bed will have him much perkier. He occasionally weeps when he ponders the outpouring of love and care that we have received. He made a comment today about how magnificent and wonderful an event like this one can be. He said many people never have this opportunity to experience a glimpse of the divine, the Almighty God.
We are cherishing each moment. The Lord is graciously providing. A physical therapist evaluated our home today. He said the most dangerous place is the bathtub. He advised Jack not to attempt a shower until handrails were installed. I contacted our handy man, he was 40 miles away on a job. He said on his way home he would pick up the necessary rails and have them installed. The rails are installed. I might add that he is leaving for Bermuda tomorrow.
I met Patience this morning before Jack was dismissed. She is the lady whose prayer I sent out in yesterday's update. I told her that I sent out her prayer via email from sea to shining sea. Spontaneously, she said - "Hallelujah!". Oh, the tender mercies of our gracious God.
I asked Jack today if he was surprised about the diagnosis. He said no because he had thought about it as a possibility when he began to experience some symptoms. I am so thankful that only the motor function of his left side is affected at this point.
Our prayers have been answered for Courtenay. She seemed much better today. She came and spent time with him while I had an appointment at work.
Jack is anxious to see Enzo,the man that cuts his hair. He is going to tell him that the last hair cut just didn't get the job done, so he decided to fix it up. I told him that he will have to tell Enzo that he will never have to worry about Jack competing with his business. Laughter is such good medicine.
I don't recall if I mentioned it when this happened last week but we are in the process of replacing our 50 year old kitchen cabinets. Thankfully, we will have running water in the kitchen by Thursday morning. It is not unlike being a pioneer. I am so grateful to be alive with so many conveniences, most of the time.
Please continue to be prayful about our oncology appointment on Firday morning. Pray also that Jonathan and his dear wife, Megan, will have travel safety on Thursday.
These emails will continue to go through my command center in CA until the head of the center, Jonathan, arrives on Thursday and unravels his mother's email problems.
Blessings to all of you,
Carolyn
Monday, August 27, 2007
Update
Good news! Jack is coming home tomorrow morning. I think he will be much more comfortable once he is home. If you notice that the emails are coming from CA via Jonathan, it is because I discovered through talking to various people that my email from yesterday was not received by anyone. I was annoyed. My technology skills are barely competent at times (even worse now because of my lack of wigit patience) so our whiz kid Jonathan said '"Mom, said the emails to me and I will manage them from here" - oh, what a relief it is. Jonathan's comment was - finally something useful to do with my skills (paraphrased).
Jack is slowing improving. The best way to describe him is that he appears as though he has had a stroke on his left side. He essentially has no function of this left hand and arm. He says that it is very exhausting to try anything with it. He seemed very tired to me today, more than yesterday. He hasn't lost his humor though.
Last evening I took him a yellow soft ball to use to exercise his hand as well as a little stick figure that can be twisted into any shape. The hands and feet of this figure are magnetic. The little figure comes in a tin can and can sit on the can easily due to the magnets. I could see Jack was using the magnets to test various things - his bed rails, the shelf by his bed; he put it on my head, etc. I said, you really don't have much metal in here. He corrected me by saying, I don't have metal with ferrous (iron) in it. I finally know why I majored in Chemistry. Of course, this brought a good laugh. I told him I was most encouraged that I did not have iron in my head. In short order, with his right hand, with a little help from his left hand, he twisted this figure into a shape so the ball could be balanced in the hands of the figure. The ball is tennis ball size and the figure is about 2 inches tall. Only Jack!!!
We met extensively with the Dr. this evening. Courtenay got to talk with him and look at the MRI images showing the tumor. Please pray for her. She is struggling the hardest with this difficulty. She said she felt so empty. She said that it is so hard. I told her that I agree. I told her that even though she feels empty, that she is not. That the Lord is supplying her with much grace and filling her void. Courtenay and Jack have had a very unique and special relationship with their Dad. He has been a constant to her over the years when so much in her life seemed so uncertain. I think as she ponders losing him possibly and seeing how different he is right now that she is facing the most difficult mountain to traverse. Pray that the Lord will sustain me so I can comfort her and that the Lord will comfort her in this hour for her.
Jack had a wonderful experience this morning with a nurse that helped him shower. Her name is Patience. So Jack asked her if her name was an indication of who she is. She answered him by saying " by the grace of God". This led to a wonderful conversation they had. They prayed and then she wrote out her prayer for him at his request. I share it with you.
Here it is:
Father, you are the Alpha and Omega, the I am and the I am, the Almighty God.
I thank you for the miracle of sleeping and waking up each day of my life.
Thank you for your provision, protection, and mercy.
Father, I kneel down under your throne of grace pleading for healing.
Father, you said by your stripes, we are healed. Father heal me.
Oh Lord, I pray that you send your angels from above to rub me with your Balm of Gilead.
Father, I thank you for answered prayer in Jesus name I pray, AMEN!!!
Blessings to all of you as your thoughts and prayers are breathed to our Lord for all of us.
love,
Carolyn
Jack is slowing improving. The best way to describe him is that he appears as though he has had a stroke on his left side. He essentially has no function of this left hand and arm. He says that it is very exhausting to try anything with it. He seemed very tired to me today, more than yesterday. He hasn't lost his humor though.
Last evening I took him a yellow soft ball to use to exercise his hand as well as a little stick figure that can be twisted into any shape. The hands and feet of this figure are magnetic. The little figure comes in a tin can and can sit on the can easily due to the magnets. I could see Jack was using the magnets to test various things - his bed rails, the shelf by his bed; he put it on my head, etc. I said, you really don't have much metal in here. He corrected me by saying, I don't have metal with ferrous (iron) in it. I finally know why I majored in Chemistry. Of course, this brought a good laugh. I told him I was most encouraged that I did not have iron in my head. In short order, with his right hand, with a little help from his left hand, he twisted this figure into a shape so the ball could be balanced in the hands of the figure. The ball is tennis ball size and the figure is about 2 inches tall. Only Jack!!!
We met extensively with the Dr. this evening. Courtenay got to talk with him and look at the MRI images showing the tumor. Please pray for her. She is struggling the hardest with this difficulty. She said she felt so empty. She said that it is so hard. I told her that I agree. I told her that even though she feels empty, that she is not. That the Lord is supplying her with much grace and filling her void. Courtenay and Jack have had a very unique and special relationship with their Dad. He has been a constant to her over the years when so much in her life seemed so uncertain. I think as she ponders losing him possibly and seeing how different he is right now that she is facing the most difficult mountain to traverse. Pray that the Lord will sustain me so I can comfort her and that the Lord will comfort her in this hour for her.
Jack had a wonderful experience this morning with a nurse that helped him shower. Her name is Patience. So Jack asked her if her name was an indication of who she is. She answered him by saying " by the grace of God". This led to a wonderful conversation they had. They prayed and then she wrote out her prayer for him at his request. I share it with you.
Here it is:
Father, you are the Alpha and Omega, the I am and the I am, the Almighty God.
I thank you for the miracle of sleeping and waking up each day of my life.
Thank you for your provision, protection, and mercy.
Father, I kneel down under your throne of grace pleading for healing.
Father, you said by your stripes, we are healed. Father heal me.
Oh Lord, I pray that you send your angels from above to rub me with your Balm of Gilead.
Father, I thank you for answered prayer in Jesus name I pray, AMEN!!!
Blessings to all of you as your thoughts and prayers are breathed to our Lord for all of us.
love,
Carolyn
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Update
Hello everyone:
I spent most of the afternoon with Jack. He looked a 100% better today, Much more facial function than yesterday; both sides of his face work when he smiles that dynamic smile of his. That was encouraging to me. His left hand is still not working very well. Physical therapy is working with him on that as well as his walking. Tomorrow I will be going in and learning some strategies for being at home with him. He does not have left side spatial orientation so he will be prone to bump into things. The physical therapist said that he will need someone to stand to his left everytime he is walking so he won't bump into things. It will take time for his brain to relearn this function. We are not sure when he will come home. I was told that someone will need to be with him at all times. For now, Courtenay and I will use our flexible work schedules to fill this role. We were told that it will take about 1-2 weeks for him to return to pre biopsy conditions. Physcial therapists will visit our home and help him and us adapt.
One thing they started today is an anti-inflamatory drug to reduce the brain swelling which they hope will help his left hand.
The more grim news is that the neurologist met with Jack and me this afternoon with the preliminary biopsy results - the complete results will not be in for 1-2 weeks. Here is what the Dr. said: it is definitely a tumor and not an infection; it has probably been growing for several months to a year; these kinds of tumors often become symptomatic with a fall or another head trauma; there is inflamation around the tumor; the tumor is located 2.5 cm (about 1-1.5 inches) below the skull deep within the brain cavity. We saw a picture of it and as I said, it is about the size of small egg and actually shaped a little like an egg. They cannot tell if it has tenicles or not; they think it is fairly aggressive; they are not sure it is operable; they will not determine the treatment protocol until all of the results are in but when they are in; they want to begin treatment immediately as soon as the pathology report is complete. It is inconclusive as to whether it is malignant or not; they are leaning toward malignancy.
I asked the Dr. what the success rate on these kinds of tumors is; he said they vary from person to person; they have some patients who don't respond to treatment and others who respond very well and live many years. One thing they know is what different drugs do - one is to cut the blood supply off of the tumor (tumors need a massive amt of blood); other treatments actually shrink the tumors relieving the symptoms. We will know more with the report as to how they will proceed.
We are so thankful for the care and support of all of our friends and family and our gracious Lord. We are so grateful for the care of the medical teams. I did find out today that his neurologist chief is world reknown and is highly respected; Jack really likes him; he is from India and his name is Dr. Venna.
Please continue to pray that no matter what is in store that we will be submitted to the will and hand of the Lord; pray that the Lord will use this experience to bring honor and glory to Himself; pray that His grace will be demonstrated in us, and that our Lord will continue to supply us with the peace that passes all understanding. There is great blessing in this trial for which I am thankful. We anticipate and look forward to seeing the Lord at work.
Blessings,
Carolyn
I spent most of the afternoon with Jack. He looked a 100% better today, Much more facial function than yesterday; both sides of his face work when he smiles that dynamic smile of his. That was encouraging to me. His left hand is still not working very well. Physical therapy is working with him on that as well as his walking. Tomorrow I will be going in and learning some strategies for being at home with him. He does not have left side spatial orientation so he will be prone to bump into things. The physical therapist said that he will need someone to stand to his left everytime he is walking so he won't bump into things. It will take time for his brain to relearn this function. We are not sure when he will come home. I was told that someone will need to be with him at all times. For now, Courtenay and I will use our flexible work schedules to fill this role. We were told that it will take about 1-2 weeks for him to return to pre biopsy conditions. Physcial therapists will visit our home and help him and us adapt.
One thing they started today is an anti-inflamatory drug to reduce the brain swelling which they hope will help his left hand.
The more grim news is that the neurologist met with Jack and me this afternoon with the preliminary biopsy results - the complete results will not be in for 1-2 weeks. Here is what the Dr. said: it is definitely a tumor and not an infection; it has probably been growing for several months to a year; these kinds of tumors often become symptomatic with a fall or another head trauma; there is inflamation around the tumor; the tumor is located 2.5 cm (about 1-1.5 inches) below the skull deep within the brain cavity. We saw a picture of it and as I said, it is about the size of small egg and actually shaped a little like an egg. They cannot tell if it has tenicles or not; they think it is fairly aggressive; they are not sure it is operable; they will not determine the treatment protocol until all of the results are in but when they are in; they want to begin treatment immediately as soon as the pathology report is complete. It is inconclusive as to whether it is malignant or not; they are leaning toward malignancy.
I asked the Dr. what the success rate on these kinds of tumors is; he said they vary from person to person; they have some patients who don't respond to treatment and others who respond very well and live many years. One thing they know is what different drugs do - one is to cut the blood supply off of the tumor (tumors need a massive amt of blood); other treatments actually shrink the tumors relieving the symptoms. We will know more with the report as to how they will proceed.
We are so thankful for the care and support of all of our friends and family and our gracious Lord. We are so grateful for the care of the medical teams. I did find out today that his neurologist chief is world reknown and is highly respected; Jack really likes him; he is from India and his name is Dr. Venna.
Please continue to pray that no matter what is in store that we will be submitted to the will and hand of the Lord; pray that the Lord will use this experience to bring honor and glory to Himself; pray that His grace will be demonstrated in us, and that our Lord will continue to supply us with the peace that passes all understanding. There is great blessing in this trial for which I am thankful. We anticipate and look forward to seeing the Lord at work.
Blessings,
Carolyn
Today
Hello everyone:
I will begin by telling you a funny story that is such a "Jackism" (new word). Yesterday, I spent a few hours with him yesterday as you know from the email. Last evening, I commented to him that he was urinating frequently. I said it must be all of the fluid they are pumping into him. He immediately said, oh it is a mass balance issue. I said what? He said the sum of the flows is zero. I said Jack what are you talking about. At this point, he started speaking English, and said what goes in must come out. So remember, the next time you go to the bathroom, it is a mass balance issue and the sum of the flows is zero. I am not kidding, going to the bathroom will never be the same again. You now have a little glimpse of how I have lived my life with my dear husband - thankfully, some of it is not foreign since my background in college was Chemistry and Math.
On the progress of the day - I was most encouraged today when I arrived around 10:30 AM to find him sitting up. It was the first time that I had seen him sitting since Wednesday. He has excellent color; is more energetic; and generally in good spirits. His room mate is a loving retarded man, Walter, that must be a frequent to the floor Jack is on because everyone that works that area keeps coming in and greeting him. He is very funny; he is constantly telling everyone they he loves them. He frequently asks for kisses from the nurses. One told him today she was allergic to kissess. He said OK but I still love you. The interaction through the curtain around Walter makes Jack laugh a lot; us as well.
Jack's face has more symmetry so speaking is still labored but easier. His biggest difficulty is his left hand. He has almost no function of it. The Dr. told us it would take 2-3 weeks for him to relearn how to use it. Some of this problem is due to the brain swelling. They started him steroids last evening to reduce the swelling. I was with him when the physical therapist came in to work with him. She had him walk down several hallways as well as practice stairs. It is remarkable to watch. Since he has no spatial sense about his left side, he has to be cued as to how to do certain things. When he was going up the stairs, he was only placing his foot partially on the step. I suggested he make sure his toes hit the next step so that he would know that his foot was completely on the stair. He used his right hand to move his left hand on the rail. He seemed to glad to be walking. When we returned to the room, the PT told him that he did an excellent job and that it was much better than yesterday. Jack quickly retorted that it was because he had 2 pretty girls to walk with. He is getting better!!!
He has been told repeatedly that he is not to try and walk by himself yet. He told me that he went to the bathroom by himself but that he did not tell the nurse. I have my hands full with this one!!!! Carolee, I may need some lessons in being "Nurse Nasty" - are you home yet?
Today, I took the Sunday paper in and was reading to him. There was a picture of a farm house with a pond on front page of the real estate section of the paper. He said that pond has still water. I said yes but did not catch the significance; I said do you mean stagnant water; he said no - still water - "beside the still waters" from Psalm 23. Thank you Lord for the comfort of your word in our minds and hearts, especially at times like these.
When I prepared to leave today, he requested that I leave the paper. Tonight, he told me that he had read it today, Another good first.
This morning a team of his Drs. came in to talk to him. Dr. Rosenthal wanted to know how we were coping with the heavy news he delivered yesterday. I reiterated to him what I had told him yesterday that we are confident in the Lord who has placed us here and we trust that he will lead us through it regardless of the outcome. He said that he had been thinking about what I had said yesterday and was comforted that we have that confidence. I told also that at times I feel weak in the knees but that it does not last long.
Courtenay is taking this very hard but is a real trooper. She gave her Dad a big hug tonight and started to cry as did he. He told her that one of the good things was that we would be able to spend more time together. When we left, she apologized for not holding up. I told her that crying is normal and healthy and that she did fabulous.
Jonathan and Megan arrive on Thursday. We are looking forward to their visit.
I want to thank everyone who is caring, praying, and comforting us. Your offers for help, your words and your love is so felt. We love all of you dearly and are so grateful to have each of you in our lives. I will close with something I was sent by my Dad.
May today be all that you need it to be. May the peace of God and the freshness of the Holy Spirit rest in your thoughts, rule in your dreams tonight and conquer all of your fears. May God manifest himself today in ways that you have never experienced. May your joys be fulfilled, your dreams be closer and your prayers answered. I pray that faith enters a new height for you. I am praying for peace, healing, health, happiness, prosperity, joy and true undying love for God.
May God be honored and glorified in all we say and do in the coming days.
Love to all of you,
Carolyn
I will begin by telling you a funny story that is such a "Jackism" (new word). Yesterday, I spent a few hours with him yesterday as you know from the email. Last evening, I commented to him that he was urinating frequently. I said it must be all of the fluid they are pumping into him. He immediately said, oh it is a mass balance issue. I said what? He said the sum of the flows is zero. I said Jack what are you talking about. At this point, he started speaking English, and said what goes in must come out. So remember, the next time you go to the bathroom, it is a mass balance issue and the sum of the flows is zero. I am not kidding, going to the bathroom will never be the same again. You now have a little glimpse of how I have lived my life with my dear husband - thankfully, some of it is not foreign since my background in college was Chemistry and Math.
On the progress of the day - I was most encouraged today when I arrived around 10:30 AM to find him sitting up. It was the first time that I had seen him sitting since Wednesday. He has excellent color; is more energetic; and generally in good spirits. His room mate is a loving retarded man, Walter, that must be a frequent to the floor Jack is on because everyone that works that area keeps coming in and greeting him. He is very funny; he is constantly telling everyone they he loves them. He frequently asks for kisses from the nurses. One told him today she was allergic to kissess. He said OK but I still love you. The interaction through the curtain around Walter makes Jack laugh a lot; us as well.
Jack's face has more symmetry so speaking is still labored but easier. His biggest difficulty is his left hand. He has almost no function of it. The Dr. told us it would take 2-3 weeks for him to relearn how to use it. Some of this problem is due to the brain swelling. They started him steroids last evening to reduce the swelling. I was with him when the physical therapist came in to work with him. She had him walk down several hallways as well as practice stairs. It is remarkable to watch. Since he has no spatial sense about his left side, he has to be cued as to how to do certain things. When he was going up the stairs, he was only placing his foot partially on the step. I suggested he make sure his toes hit the next step so that he would know that his foot was completely on the stair. He used his right hand to move his left hand on the rail. He seemed to glad to be walking. When we returned to the room, the PT told him that he did an excellent job and that it was much better than yesterday. Jack quickly retorted that it was because he had 2 pretty girls to walk with. He is getting better!!!
He has been told repeatedly that he is not to try and walk by himself yet. He told me that he went to the bathroom by himself but that he did not tell the nurse. I have my hands full with this one!!!! Carolee, I may need some lessons in being "Nurse Nasty" - are you home yet?
Today, I took the Sunday paper in and was reading to him. There was a picture of a farm house with a pond on front page of the real estate section of the paper. He said that pond has still water. I said yes but did not catch the significance; I said do you mean stagnant water; he said no - still water - "beside the still waters" from Psalm 23. Thank you Lord for the comfort of your word in our minds and hearts, especially at times like these.
When I prepared to leave today, he requested that I leave the paper. Tonight, he told me that he had read it today, Another good first.
This morning a team of his Drs. came in to talk to him. Dr. Rosenthal wanted to know how we were coping with the heavy news he delivered yesterday. I reiterated to him what I had told him yesterday that we are confident in the Lord who has placed us here and we trust that he will lead us through it regardless of the outcome. He said that he had been thinking about what I had said yesterday and was comforted that we have that confidence. I told also that at times I feel weak in the knees but that it does not last long.
Courtenay is taking this very hard but is a real trooper. She gave her Dad a big hug tonight and started to cry as did he. He told her that one of the good things was that we would be able to spend more time together. When we left, she apologized for not holding up. I told her that crying is normal and healthy and that she did fabulous.
Jonathan and Megan arrive on Thursday. We are looking forward to their visit.
I want to thank everyone who is caring, praying, and comforting us. Your offers for help, your words and your love is so felt. We love all of you dearly and are so grateful to have each of you in our lives. I will close with something I was sent by my Dad.
May today be all that you need it to be. May the peace of God and the freshness of the Holy Spirit rest in your thoughts, rule in your dreams tonight and conquer all of your fears. May God manifest himself today in ways that you have never experienced. May your joys be fulfilled, your dreams be closer and your prayers answered. I pray that faith enters a new height for you. I am praying for peace, healing, health, happiness, prosperity, joy and true undying love for God.
May God be honored and glorified in all we say and do in the coming days.
Love to all of you,
Carolyn
Friday, August 24, 2007
Update
Good morning:
I slept at home last evening which I had not been able to do the first night. Woke up and saw that it was light. I was grateful for such a restful evening. Courtenay thought we would sleep better if we "slept in our own beds". I stayed with her the first evening.
Jack came through the biopsy with flying colors. It took 2.5 hours and he was in recovery for 4 hours. He was awake when they returned him to his room. Courtenay and I were there waiting for him. Needless to say, Courtenay broke down when she saw Jack but he was very reassuring and comforting to her by holding her hand and arm and telling her he was OK. Only Jack! He looks a little like Yul Brenner on one side; so much for his good haircuts. The biopsy incision is about 2 inches long on the top right side of his head. The mass is in the right frontal lobe at the top of the brain I spoke with the neurologist and they said they really do not know what it is; it could be an infection; a cyst; a benign or malignant tumor; they just do not know. He said that we will have a preliminary reading within 24-48 hours and an extensive pathology report within 7-10 days.
The nurse came in and asked him where he was; what day it was; who was the Pres of the US and a few more questions; he answered all of them. They asked him to resist them pushing on his arms and legs while they were extended and he was successful at that as well. The left side of his face was more droopy than it has been but that is one of the symptoms of this mass.
Today, he will have CT scan on the rest of his body to determine if he has other masses that may have led to this brain mass. I thought they had done that yesterday but they had the biopsy preempt that test.
We hope that he may come home sometime this evening or weekend while we wait for the test results. He would certainly rest better here.
Thank you for all of your prayers, calls, and emails. The Lord continues to provide in all ways.
love,
carolyn
I slept at home last evening which I had not been able to do the first night. Woke up and saw that it was light. I was grateful for such a restful evening. Courtenay thought we would sleep better if we "slept in our own beds". I stayed with her the first evening.
Jack came through the biopsy with flying colors. It took 2.5 hours and he was in recovery for 4 hours. He was awake when they returned him to his room. Courtenay and I were there waiting for him. Needless to say, Courtenay broke down when she saw Jack but he was very reassuring and comforting to her by holding her hand and arm and telling her he was OK. Only Jack! He looks a little like Yul Brenner on one side; so much for his good haircuts. The biopsy incision is about 2 inches long on the top right side of his head. The mass is in the right frontal lobe at the top of the brain I spoke with the neurologist and they said they really do not know what it is; it could be an infection; a cyst; a benign or malignant tumor; they just do not know. He said that we will have a preliminary reading within 24-48 hours and an extensive pathology report within 7-10 days.
The nurse came in and asked him where he was; what day it was; who was the Pres of the US and a few more questions; he answered all of them. They asked him to resist them pushing on his arms and legs while they were extended and he was successful at that as well. The left side of his face was more droopy than it has been but that is one of the symptoms of this mass.
Today, he will have CT scan on the rest of his body to determine if he has other masses that may have led to this brain mass. I thought they had done that yesterday but they had the biopsy preempt that test.
We hope that he may come home sometime this evening or weekend while we wait for the test results. He would certainly rest better here.
Thank you for all of your prayers, calls, and emails. The Lord continues to provide in all ways.
love,
carolyn
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