Wednesday, April 15, 2009 9:55 AM, CDT
Happy Wednesday! Hope this week finds everyone doing well. The weather sure has been a gift! This morning I was working from home and had the patio door open, listening to music of the birds…they were singing “good morning, today is going to be a great day!” The only thing better would have been if you were all here to share a cup of chai tea with me!
Well, round 2 tomorrow, 1/6th of the way done by tomorrow night! Can you tell I am grasping at whatever encouragement I can find? I believe the plan is that I will be getting Abraxene, which is like Taxol, but hopefully with less allergic reactions (so I won’t have to take all the premeds I did with the taxol). Abraxene does have the same side effects as Taxol—bone pain and numbness in hands and feet, so far I haven’t experienced the numbness, but I did have a lot of bone pain on Sunday. (Just keep praying this is kicking the cancer!)The last few days have been better and last night I was blessed by being able to go to a church service project! I couldn't really do anything, but just being there was such a great encouragment! Okay, back to tomorrow, my brother, Nick, is taking me to my infusion—bonus for the day! My mom will join us when she is done working. I will be admitted to Avera after the infusion to monitor my heart and potential side effects. Hopefully just a one day stay, but am very thankful that we live in the US and have access to such great health care.
As many of you know Ferlin’s company is lawn maintenance and landscaping, so he is really getting busy…yippee!!! However, I find that I am going to have to depend on the help of others, just a bit more, especially with transportation…thanks to you who have volunteered to help us!
Yesterday a very dear friend emailed me this….thought I would share….
Do not pray for easy lives.
Pray to be a stronger person.
Do not pray for tasks equal to your powers,
Pray for powers equal to your tasks.
Then the doing of your work shall be no miracle,
But you shall be the miracle.
Thanks for praying for me as I once again start a new chemo med with all the unknowns. I literally can feel the prayers on Thursday morning pushing me into the infusion center, especially when my mind is saying “RUN! RUN!RUN AWAY!”
REMINDER: The 21st annual Avera Race Against Breast Cancer will be held Saturday, May 9, 2009 at the Avera McKennan Fitness Center.
Only 5 more days to join!!!! Come join our team!
Team: Kim’s Angels with Attitudes (need to know the name to register for the team…we need 15 people to be an official team, so everyone is welcome to join!)
Captain: Jody Reisch (Kim’s brother)
Info: email Kim or Jody at jody_reisch@cinfin.com
Website:http://www.averafoundation.org/NetCommunity/Page.aspx?pid=183&srcid=183
Deadline: April 20, 2009
Sunday, April 19, 2009 8:48 PM, CDT
Happy Sunday!
Okay everyone hold up both hands….count your fingers…10 more treatments is all I have!! The countdown has begun!!
Although I did have a slight reaction to the new chemo on Thursday, it was reversible with some IV meds. Spent the night at the hospital and was able to go home on Friday morning. Thanks to Kathy and Brittney for picking up Kelsey. Thanks to Nick for hanging out with me the whole day. Thanks mom for everything—she even did our laundry! Saturday and Sunday I did have some bone/muscle pain, but able to find relief with Advil. Kalina and I were able to spend some time together on Saturday morning which was great fun—we made a funny pair—cute pregnant mommy and bald headed grandma! Spent Saturday afternoon working from home and Saturday evening Ferlin and Kelsey and I relaxed in front of the fire place. Tried to go to church on Sunday morning, but by the time we got there, I was too tuckered out to go….bummed! I told Ferlin I was tired of “doing sick”…but, I am not going to complain. A dear friend of mine’s sister is in hospice for stage IV cancer, I am humbled as that so easily could have been me. I am so blessed and thankful that I have been given the chance to fight this ugly disease! Last night I found out that a 10 year old girl was diagnosed with the same type of invasive breast cancer that I have….how challenging for her and her family. It seems so unbelievable.
Counting my blessings….and giving praise to God! My body may be weakened, but my spirit is growing! Hope you all have a great week and I will touch base with you on Wednesday night.
Remember to sign up for the RACE!
Wednesday, April 22, 2009 11:40 PM, CDT
Well, we did it! We took a drive this evening with the top down on the Mustang and my hat didn’t blow off! Last summer one of my most favorite pasttimes was to take a little convertible drive and let the wind blow through my hair…and for those of you who don’t know me….I’m not even a car person. (Typically if someone asks me what kind of car is this or that, I will say “I don’t know it’s the blue one or the black one…” ) Anyways, it was sure nice to get out and enjoy the beautiful weather!
After tomorrow’s treatment, I will be ¼ of the way done with this round of chemo…yah! I couldn’t have made it this far without the Lord carrying me and all of you holding my hand. I am humbled and very appreciative. So far the side effects of the Abraxene have been some numbness in my feet and general body aches and pains (thankfully advil has worked for the pains). If all goes well, I will have my chemo in the morning and can come home after the infusion. Ferlin will be working, so my mom is going to spend the day with me…blessing! The last few days have been really busy and pretty exciting at work, which is good, as it helps put “cancer” on the back burner.
This past Monday, one of my chemo partners finished her chemo—praises, while at the same time a woman who is very dear to my heart—started her chemo journey. Although chemo creates such havoc on our bodies, we are so fortunate that there are treatments available for us to attempt at stopping the disease that has found its home within our body. Speaking of chemo, with this round I have started to lose my eye lashes and eye brows…yuck! As an eyelash fell yesterday, I couldn’t help but think, one more thing being stripped from my body. Kind of reminded me of my Christian walk….as I continue to grow in Christ, having my “ugliness” stripped away, so I can become more like Him. I know that I have a long way to go, but am so thankful that He loves me and has the patience to teach me.
Special thanks to Sarah for the “mini” pizzas, Kelsey squealed in delight when I told her you supplied us with some more….yum! Thanks to Kyle and Lynn for picking up Kelsey after school so she can go to youth group—you both are great and we appreciate you so very much! Thanks to all who write such encouraging words on caring bridge, who email, send cards and call to check on us! It makes our day!!
Ps…I think that even if the team deadline for the Race is done, you can still sign up on our team. So, please, if you would like to join the Angels with Attitudes, we would love to have you!!
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Caring Bridge Entries
Sunday, April 5, 2009 11:07 PM, CDT
Thank you all for your prayers. I was able to stay out of the hospital and no evidence of infection! Although I still am fatigued pretty easily and have some stomach issues, the last few days haven’t been too bad. On Thursday, I was able to see all of my children…Brett stopped by for a quick hello and Kalina and Steven met up with us at Coffea…we had to check out the beautiful new building (and cool floors Mr. Ferlin stained). Spending time with my children just tickles my heart and I am so proud of all of them!
All my life I have had a love for words and books... Well, Saturday I went out of my “box.” I attended children’s writers and illustrator’s conference (even had a children’s story I had written critiqued.) At first I felt really out of my element with all these talented and gifted people, thankfully though, I was able to find a dear friend, who welcomed me to her table and was so loving and encouraging that I soon forgot my fears. Due to fatigue, I wasn’t able to stay for the whole conference, but the time spent was a great learning experience and helped reignite some buried dreams of mine. Let me encourage all of you, take some time for yourself to ponder your dreams and take just one step in the next week to make your dreams a reality!!
Over the next few entries I would like to share with you all some of my ponderings and thoughts about the cancer journey. (I was hoping to be able to share some thoughts this weekend, but ran out of time, too busy trying to catch up and get things done before I start my new chemo treatment this Thursday.)
If you have some extra time, I posted a few pics: some of Kelsey and I, my mustang and some of the benefit. (I have more pics coming on the benefit that my wonderful son in law took, but couldn’t figure out how to get the disk to work tonight and since he works at 4 am, I didn’t think I would get the greatest mother in law award if I called him tonight at 11)
Thanks again for everyone who is walking with us on this journey. Your love, support and kindness definitely make this a bit easier. One last thought: We may not know what tomorrow holds, but we know Who holds tomorrow. And that is enough.
**caption under cartoon states: Somehow I don't think they are ready for the babes of breast cancer.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009 8:22 PM, CDT
Hi everyone! Hope this week is filled with many blessings and lots of laughter!
Well, tomorrow I start my 2nd step in the “chemo” journey…my new chemo drug is called Taxol. From the research that I have done it is supposed to work well on triple negative breast cancers. (praying so!!) To be honest, it is hard for me to not be anxious about Taxol…so I am going to be bold and ask for specific prayers regarding this med: 1) some people have severe reactions to this medication when it is being administered (like breathing difficulties, etc…)…so would appreciate prayers that this isn’t something that happens to meJ 2) the side effects: should be less nausea, but greater potential for bone pain, numbness in hands/feet, and greater fatigue—so of course, minimal side effects would be great 3) that the Taxol will work to get rid of any stray cancer cells 4) I trust and have faith in God, but I am very human…so some calmness on the nerves that are starting to jump inside of me would be much appreciated. Thanks for the prayers! I will keep you posted on my response. Kicking cancer one step at a time!
Ponderings: Well, as warned, I thought I would share a few thoughts about my journey with breast cancer. I love Easter and the promise’s it brings! It’s the Good Friday before that is a bit harder to get excited about, especially since I (like I believe most people) try to avoid any type of suffering. However, who has ever heard of victory without sacrifice? Christ’s example of suffering and the victory in His resurrection brings such great hope and encouragement to me, especially when I experience the trials and sufferings of life. When I was first diagnosed with breast cancer, I went through a time of wondering if I wasn’t doing faith right and I certainly didn’t consider it “pure joy” that my faith and health were being tested. Left to my own, I would have liked to skip this “good Friday” experience. But if I had skipped this part of my journey in life, I may have missed understanding 2 Corinthians 1: 3-4… “God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.” God has given me strength, encouragement and hope while walking this road. (Also, last week, I was able to encourage 3 women newly diagnosed with breast cancer.) I know that there are still many unknowns regarding my journey with this ugly disease and there might even be a time when I cry out like Christ did and ask God “why have you forsaken me?”…I pray that I always remember that without Good Friday, there would be no Easter morning!
One of the greatest blessings of this journey: the unique opportunity to feel the love and support of family and friends! Thank you so much for giving my family and me this gift!!
May you all have a wonderful Easter filled with much joy!
Sunday, April 12, 2009 9:09 PM, CDT
Happy Easter! I hope everyone was able to share some time with their loved ones on this special day!
Did you know?
· Breast cancer incidence in women in the United States is 1 in 8 (about 13%).
· 120 women in the US die every day from breast cancer.
· For women in the U.S., breast cancer death rates are higher than those for any other cancer besides lung cancer.
· About 90% of breast cancers are due not to heredity, but to genetic abnormalities that happen as a result of the aging process and life in general.
· A woman’s risk of breast cancer approximately doubles if she has a first-degree relative (mother, sister, daughter) who has been diagnosed with breast cancer.
What can we do?
The 21st annual Avera Race Against Breast Cancer will be held Saturday, May 9, 2009 at the Avera McKennan Fitness Center.
Each year, the Avera Race brings together family, friends, cancer survivors and others - all racing toward a common goal: to enhance cancer care for people right here in Sioux Falls and surrounding communities. Every penny stays local to help your families, friends and neighbors get the treatment and support they need.
Come join our team! (we can have as many team members that want to join...and if you come by yourself there will be other team members to walk/run with you and if you are of the competitive type...and want to go solo...those of us cheering will cheer you on as you run.)
Team: Kim's Angels with Attitudes (—will need this name when you register.)
Captain: Jody Reisch (Kim’s brother)
Info: email Kim or Jody at jody_reisch@cinfin.com
Website: http://www.averafoundation.org/NetCommunity/Page.aspx?pid=183&srcid=183
Deadline: April 20, 2009
The fun thing about this race is that there is something for everyone: walkers and runners and even spectators! I unfortunately won’t be able to walk in the race, but will be cheering on the side lines with my nieces and nephews!
Update on my walk with chemo: Well, as many of you know, I hit a “bump!” The actual infusion of my new chemo medication—Taxol, went good…the afternoon was spent with family and friends visiting. However by early evening, my mom had to take me to the emergency room with rapid heart rate and tremors. (Didn’t know my heart could go from 100 to 188 within two minutes of standing.) So, I spent a few nights at Avera and was able to go home on Saturday afternoon. As of right now the plan to continue on my scheduled dose of chemo (with some adjustments to the meds) this Thursday with a planned admission to Avera following administration of chemo. If all goes well, I will just be there overnight! The Avera staff has been great, but there is no place like home! One of the hardest parts about this journey is that it is so hard to keep up with life…I miss being a wife and mom, friend and coworker… My prayer is that chemo will kick the cancer but be just a bit easier on my body.
Thank you everyone for your continued help, support, love and prayers. This journey has been made so much easier with all your love! We are blessed!
Thank you all for your prayers. I was able to stay out of the hospital and no evidence of infection! Although I still am fatigued pretty easily and have some stomach issues, the last few days haven’t been too bad. On Thursday, I was able to see all of my children…Brett stopped by for a quick hello and Kalina and Steven met up with us at Coffea…we had to check out the beautiful new building (and cool floors Mr. Ferlin stained). Spending time with my children just tickles my heart and I am so proud of all of them!
All my life I have had a love for words and books... Well, Saturday I went out of my “box.” I attended children’s writers and illustrator’s conference (even had a children’s story I had written critiqued.) At first I felt really out of my element with all these talented and gifted people, thankfully though, I was able to find a dear friend, who welcomed me to her table and was so loving and encouraging that I soon forgot my fears. Due to fatigue, I wasn’t able to stay for the whole conference, but the time spent was a great learning experience and helped reignite some buried dreams of mine. Let me encourage all of you, take some time for yourself to ponder your dreams and take just one step in the next week to make your dreams a reality!!
Over the next few entries I would like to share with you all some of my ponderings and thoughts about the cancer journey. (I was hoping to be able to share some thoughts this weekend, but ran out of time, too busy trying to catch up and get things done before I start my new chemo treatment this Thursday.)
If you have some extra time, I posted a few pics: some of Kelsey and I, my mustang and some of the benefit. (I have more pics coming on the benefit that my wonderful son in law took, but couldn’t figure out how to get the disk to work tonight and since he works at 4 am, I didn’t think I would get the greatest mother in law award if I called him tonight at 11)
Thanks again for everyone who is walking with us on this journey. Your love, support and kindness definitely make this a bit easier. One last thought: We may not know what tomorrow holds, but we know Who holds tomorrow. And that is enough.
**caption under cartoon states: Somehow I don't think they are ready for the babes of breast cancer.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009 8:22 PM, CDT
Hi everyone! Hope this week is filled with many blessings and lots of laughter!
Well, tomorrow I start my 2nd step in the “chemo” journey…my new chemo drug is called Taxol. From the research that I have done it is supposed to work well on triple negative breast cancers. (praying so!!) To be honest, it is hard for me to not be anxious about Taxol…so I am going to be bold and ask for specific prayers regarding this med: 1) some people have severe reactions to this medication when it is being administered (like breathing difficulties, etc…)…so would appreciate prayers that this isn’t something that happens to meJ 2) the side effects: should be less nausea, but greater potential for bone pain, numbness in hands/feet, and greater fatigue—so of course, minimal side effects would be great 3) that the Taxol will work to get rid of any stray cancer cells 4) I trust and have faith in God, but I am very human…so some calmness on the nerves that are starting to jump inside of me would be much appreciated. Thanks for the prayers! I will keep you posted on my response. Kicking cancer one step at a time!
Ponderings: Well, as warned, I thought I would share a few thoughts about my journey with breast cancer. I love Easter and the promise’s it brings! It’s the Good Friday before that is a bit harder to get excited about, especially since I (like I believe most people) try to avoid any type of suffering. However, who has ever heard of victory without sacrifice? Christ’s example of suffering and the victory in His resurrection brings such great hope and encouragement to me, especially when I experience the trials and sufferings of life. When I was first diagnosed with breast cancer, I went through a time of wondering if I wasn’t doing faith right and I certainly didn’t consider it “pure joy” that my faith and health were being tested. Left to my own, I would have liked to skip this “good Friday” experience. But if I had skipped this part of my journey in life, I may have missed understanding 2 Corinthians 1: 3-4… “God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.” God has given me strength, encouragement and hope while walking this road. (Also, last week, I was able to encourage 3 women newly diagnosed with breast cancer.) I know that there are still many unknowns regarding my journey with this ugly disease and there might even be a time when I cry out like Christ did and ask God “why have you forsaken me?”…I pray that I always remember that without Good Friday, there would be no Easter morning!
One of the greatest blessings of this journey: the unique opportunity to feel the love and support of family and friends! Thank you so much for giving my family and me this gift!!
May you all have a wonderful Easter filled with much joy!
Sunday, April 12, 2009 9:09 PM, CDT
Happy Easter! I hope everyone was able to share some time with their loved ones on this special day!
Did you know?
· Breast cancer incidence in women in the United States is 1 in 8 (about 13%).
· 120 women in the US die every day from breast cancer.
· For women in the U.S., breast cancer death rates are higher than those for any other cancer besides lung cancer.
· About 90% of breast cancers are due not to heredity, but to genetic abnormalities that happen as a result of the aging process and life in general.
· A woman’s risk of breast cancer approximately doubles if she has a first-degree relative (mother, sister, daughter) who has been diagnosed with breast cancer.
What can we do?
The 21st annual Avera Race Against Breast Cancer will be held Saturday, May 9, 2009 at the Avera McKennan Fitness Center.
Each year, the Avera Race brings together family, friends, cancer survivors and others - all racing toward a common goal: to enhance cancer care for people right here in Sioux Falls and surrounding communities. Every penny stays local to help your families, friends and neighbors get the treatment and support they need.
Come join our team! (we can have as many team members that want to join...and if you come by yourself there will be other team members to walk/run with you and if you are of the competitive type...and want to go solo...those of us cheering will cheer you on as you run.)
Team: Kim's Angels with Attitudes (—will need this name when you register.)
Captain: Jody Reisch (Kim’s brother)
Info: email Kim or Jody at jody_reisch@cinfin.com
Website: http://www.averafoundation.org/NetCommunity/Page.aspx?pid=183&srcid=183
Deadline: April 20, 2009
The fun thing about this race is that there is something for everyone: walkers and runners and even spectators! I unfortunately won’t be able to walk in the race, but will be cheering on the side lines with my nieces and nephews!
Update on my walk with chemo: Well, as many of you know, I hit a “bump!” The actual infusion of my new chemo medication—Taxol, went good…the afternoon was spent with family and friends visiting. However by early evening, my mom had to take me to the emergency room with rapid heart rate and tremors. (Didn’t know my heart could go from 100 to 188 within two minutes of standing.) So, I spent a few nights at Avera and was able to go home on Saturday afternoon. As of right now the plan to continue on my scheduled dose of chemo (with some adjustments to the meds) this Thursday with a planned admission to Avera following administration of chemo. If all goes well, I will just be there overnight! The Avera staff has been great, but there is no place like home! One of the hardest parts about this journey is that it is so hard to keep up with life…I miss being a wife and mom, friend and coworker… My prayer is that chemo will kick the cancer but be just a bit easier on my body.
Thank you everyone for your continued help, support, love and prayers. This journey has been made so much easier with all your love! We are blessed!
Caring Bridge Entries
Friday, March 20, 2009 4:57 PM, CDT
Hello to you all,
I normally have reserved myself from writing on my wonderful wife Kim’s caring bridge site. My thought being that it is her site, of which she has been not only giving updates and information of her ongoing walk thru the battle at hand/and her great brother Nick’s, but status of her well being to the many family and friends. Being respectful of that and my love for her I have avoided the process of me adding anything myself (especially with me not having the gift of writing). To be quite honest I just didn’t think my own two cents needed to be added. But after last nite (the benefit at the FireHouse UnderGround) I think it my duty and also an honor to add a little here. So bare with here as I try to explain:
A few months back as you know we started a long and challenging journey. Kim was given the devastating diagnosis of breast cancer from her personal doctor and longtime friend, Dr. Candy Ziegler. This diagnosis was incredibly hard to swallow, let alone deal with. We tried very hard to grapple with the news and the varied emotions we were all dealing with as a family. Everything from why, to how can it be possible, not to mention our fears and many tears. Our prayers were for God to lead our path and help us to make wise and informed decisions along the way with the doctors. What we didn’t count on was the incredible love and support along this whole process from all of our friends, family, co-workers, church family and communities.
To be quite honest with you, Kim and I have been humbled beyond words as to the far reaches of every ones generosity. What started out as meals from church, family and friends has carried over to a full-blown benefit that was organized and efficiently carried out last night. Completely once again catching us off guard and letting us know we are loved and cared about. So with that being said I do want to take the time and give a large thank you as follows.
I want to say a large thank you to Kim’s family. Thank you for standing and hanging in there with us. Everything from calls, letters to hospital visits to helping Kim for me when I couldn’t be there or had to work. To Sandy and Jim, thanks will never be enough, we sure appreciate all you do and are. To the brethren of the The Point, thanks is small but it is what I can give at this time. The meals have been wonderful, the letters, e-mails, calls, and above all prayers have given us hope and great encouragement. You never cease to amaze me and carry such a great example. To Allen and Denise a loving thank you for all you have done and your wonderful talks of encouragement to us both-Priceless! To our wonderful friends which are too numerous to mention (plus I don’t want to forget anyone) thank you for standing with us in this time. You have made this journey a whole lot easier to bear. We couldn’t do it without you all and you know it. To the staff at the FireHouse UnderGround I want to say a thank you for your passion. To all of you there thank you is soo small for a group with such big hearts. To the many businesses that gave soo much to help and support us a big thank you. To Dakotacare, your model of care for your employees says it all. To Tom and Laurie. I cannot say enough; you have walked with us as friends and mentors all along the way. We have shared many tears and many wonderful laughs. Rhonda, thanks is such a small word. Kalina, Steven, Brett, Kristine and Kelsey we love you very much and thank you for being who you are. Your help has been priceless and above all we can say we are family. Forgive me please if I have forgotten anyone or anything I too can claim chemo brain-well at least a little bit I suppose…
The overwhelming response and love that we have received from soo many has really brought a tremendous joy to our hearts. We can never repay you with thanks or return all the wonderful deeds you all have done but we can say we never walked this journey alone but as one incredibly large family (we consider you all family). To that we are a living testimony. God bless you and thank you all for your continued prayers,Ferlin
Wednesday, March 25, 2009 6:39 PM, CDT
Hi everyone! I am so excited to let you know that I feel like I am getting back from a wonderful “vacation”! Starting with last Thursday evening’s benefit—wow!!!! Thanks so much to everyone for everything. Not only were we financially blessed; all of your love, care and support will definitely help me on the “dark” days of chemo. It so tickled me so see everyone and I really loved the “hugs!”…(even if mine aren’t worth $22 like my husband’s). (For those of you who weren’t able to attend on Thursday evening—there was a hug from Ferlin auctioned) Friday, I could tell my counts were really low, so I worked from home—what a blessing! Saturday we were blessed with my 6 yr old niece, Kacie spending the night—she sure gave us lots of giggles. Sunday was an awesome day as I got to see my church family and go to Luverne and spend some time with more family. Kalina’s mother in law hosted a baby shower for our expectant grandson. Thanks Deb, wish I would have been able to help. Monday through Wednesday, I was able to go into the office in the mornings, run an errand or two after work, rest a bit and then finish my work hours from home…I tell you, cancer and chemo treatments, sure does make a person appreciate “normal” life! As many of you know, my “vacation” will end tomorrow morning at 10 am. The good thing is that this is the last of the A/C treatments; they say the fatigue is accumulative, so I am planning on a few very low key days. We will also be discussing with the oncologists the next round of treatments, all I know for sure is that they will be weekly for 12 weeks.
A special friend of mine and I are going through a book called To Be Told by Dan Allender, a book about listening to the stories in your life and identify the themes that God has written. Although, I have only read a few pages of the book, it has made me think about and thank God for all of you being characters in my story. I am so blessed by you all! Thanks for loving me through the good and bad days and giving me the hope and courage to fight this ugly disease. I certainly wouldn’t have chosen this story for myself (or anyone else) but I am very blessed to be able to see God’s hand actively involved in the writing of this chapter.
Thanks to everyone for your kind words on the guest book—they are such an encouragement to my family and I!!
A very special happy “40” birthday to my brother Jody—I love you!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009 9:07 PM, CDT
WORDS TO LIVE BY
It is better to wear out than to rust out.
Better limp all the way to heaven than not get there at all.
The milk of human kindness never curdles.
The quitter never wins. The winner never quits.
Make haste slowly.
The grass is greener on the other side. But it's just as hard to mow.
"I didn't come here to be told that I'm burning the candle at both ends," complained the patient to his doctor." "I came for more wax."
Anonymous
A quick hello to everyone! The cartoon so accurately portrays what I have been feeling the last few days…I am trying to slide uphill and it isn’t working too good. The weekend was spent in lots of slumber with a few short visits from loved ones, the visits were much appreciated. Actually Sunday evening, I thought, this round of chemo isn’t too bad…but Monday came…kind of felt like a truck hit me and then backed over me again to make sure it got me good. This morning, I was able to go into work for a few hours, but wonder if I may have over did it…as I have been under the blankets with chills and a slight fever since I got home from an appointment this afternoon. I appreciate your prayers that the fever stays below 100.5 as I really don’t want to leave the house tonight. (last check my temp was 100.1) (I hope I don't come across as whining...I know that I am very blessed and others have it much worse than I...)
Since I didn’t have the energy for much else tonight and had the “chemo blahs”, I was doing some random searching on the internet. Don’t you just love it when God answers just at the right time? I came across a website called the Cancer Club. What a great encouragement for cancer patients…soo funny…loved the cartoons and hoping to be able to share them with you all as our journey continues…
Also wanted to let you know that after trying out numerous hats, scarves, wigs, etc…I finally found a “wrap” that doesn’t hurt my head…it is so comfortable that I forget I am wearing it…BLESSING!!! (my brothers say their heads don’t hurt when wearing a hat, but of course I think they were born with hats on, I certainly don’t plan on being bald long enough to get “used” to it.)
Hope all is going well with you all! Thanks for your prayers and everything else….my family and I are so blessed!
ps. I have pics of the benefit and will try and post these in a few days!
Hello to you all,
I normally have reserved myself from writing on my wonderful wife Kim’s caring bridge site. My thought being that it is her site, of which she has been not only giving updates and information of her ongoing walk thru the battle at hand/and her great brother Nick’s, but status of her well being to the many family and friends. Being respectful of that and my love for her I have avoided the process of me adding anything myself (especially with me not having the gift of writing). To be quite honest I just didn’t think my own two cents needed to be added. But after last nite (the benefit at the FireHouse UnderGround) I think it my duty and also an honor to add a little here. So bare with here as I try to explain:
A few months back as you know we started a long and challenging journey. Kim was given the devastating diagnosis of breast cancer from her personal doctor and longtime friend, Dr. Candy Ziegler. This diagnosis was incredibly hard to swallow, let alone deal with. We tried very hard to grapple with the news and the varied emotions we were all dealing with as a family. Everything from why, to how can it be possible, not to mention our fears and many tears. Our prayers were for God to lead our path and help us to make wise and informed decisions along the way with the doctors. What we didn’t count on was the incredible love and support along this whole process from all of our friends, family, co-workers, church family and communities.
To be quite honest with you, Kim and I have been humbled beyond words as to the far reaches of every ones generosity. What started out as meals from church, family and friends has carried over to a full-blown benefit that was organized and efficiently carried out last night. Completely once again catching us off guard and letting us know we are loved and cared about. So with that being said I do want to take the time and give a large thank you as follows.
I want to say a large thank you to Kim’s family. Thank you for standing and hanging in there with us. Everything from calls, letters to hospital visits to helping Kim for me when I couldn’t be there or had to work. To Sandy and Jim, thanks will never be enough, we sure appreciate all you do and are. To the brethren of the The Point, thanks is small but it is what I can give at this time. The meals have been wonderful, the letters, e-mails, calls, and above all prayers have given us hope and great encouragement. You never cease to amaze me and carry such a great example. To Allen and Denise a loving thank you for all you have done and your wonderful talks of encouragement to us both-Priceless! To our wonderful friends which are too numerous to mention (plus I don’t want to forget anyone) thank you for standing with us in this time. You have made this journey a whole lot easier to bear. We couldn’t do it without you all and you know it. To the staff at the FireHouse UnderGround I want to say a thank you for your passion. To all of you there thank you is soo small for a group with such big hearts. To the many businesses that gave soo much to help and support us a big thank you. To Dakotacare, your model of care for your employees says it all. To Tom and Laurie. I cannot say enough; you have walked with us as friends and mentors all along the way. We have shared many tears and many wonderful laughs. Rhonda, thanks is such a small word. Kalina, Steven, Brett, Kristine and Kelsey we love you very much and thank you for being who you are. Your help has been priceless and above all we can say we are family. Forgive me please if I have forgotten anyone or anything I too can claim chemo brain-well at least a little bit I suppose…
The overwhelming response and love that we have received from soo many has really brought a tremendous joy to our hearts. We can never repay you with thanks or return all the wonderful deeds you all have done but we can say we never walked this journey alone but as one incredibly large family (we consider you all family). To that we are a living testimony. God bless you and thank you all for your continued prayers,Ferlin
Wednesday, March 25, 2009 6:39 PM, CDT
Hi everyone! I am so excited to let you know that I feel like I am getting back from a wonderful “vacation”! Starting with last Thursday evening’s benefit—wow!!!! Thanks so much to everyone for everything. Not only were we financially blessed; all of your love, care and support will definitely help me on the “dark” days of chemo. It so tickled me so see everyone and I really loved the “hugs!”…(even if mine aren’t worth $22 like my husband’s). (For those of you who weren’t able to attend on Thursday evening—there was a hug from Ferlin auctioned) Friday, I could tell my counts were really low, so I worked from home—what a blessing! Saturday we were blessed with my 6 yr old niece, Kacie spending the night—she sure gave us lots of giggles. Sunday was an awesome day as I got to see my church family and go to Luverne and spend some time with more family. Kalina’s mother in law hosted a baby shower for our expectant grandson. Thanks Deb, wish I would have been able to help. Monday through Wednesday, I was able to go into the office in the mornings, run an errand or two after work, rest a bit and then finish my work hours from home…I tell you, cancer and chemo treatments, sure does make a person appreciate “normal” life! As many of you know, my “vacation” will end tomorrow morning at 10 am. The good thing is that this is the last of the A/C treatments; they say the fatigue is accumulative, so I am planning on a few very low key days. We will also be discussing with the oncologists the next round of treatments, all I know for sure is that they will be weekly for 12 weeks.
A special friend of mine and I are going through a book called To Be Told by Dan Allender, a book about listening to the stories in your life and identify the themes that God has written. Although, I have only read a few pages of the book, it has made me think about and thank God for all of you being characters in my story. I am so blessed by you all! Thanks for loving me through the good and bad days and giving me the hope and courage to fight this ugly disease. I certainly wouldn’t have chosen this story for myself (or anyone else) but I am very blessed to be able to see God’s hand actively involved in the writing of this chapter.
Thanks to everyone for your kind words on the guest book—they are such an encouragement to my family and I!!
A very special happy “40” birthday to my brother Jody—I love you!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009 9:07 PM, CDT
WORDS TO LIVE BY
It is better to wear out than to rust out.
Better limp all the way to heaven than not get there at all.
The milk of human kindness never curdles.
The quitter never wins. The winner never quits.
Make haste slowly.
The grass is greener on the other side. But it's just as hard to mow.
"I didn't come here to be told that I'm burning the candle at both ends," complained the patient to his doctor." "I came for more wax."
Anonymous
A quick hello to everyone! The cartoon so accurately portrays what I have been feeling the last few days…I am trying to slide uphill and it isn’t working too good. The weekend was spent in lots of slumber with a few short visits from loved ones, the visits were much appreciated. Actually Sunday evening, I thought, this round of chemo isn’t too bad…but Monday came…kind of felt like a truck hit me and then backed over me again to make sure it got me good. This morning, I was able to go into work for a few hours, but wonder if I may have over did it…as I have been under the blankets with chills and a slight fever since I got home from an appointment this afternoon. I appreciate your prayers that the fever stays below 100.5 as I really don’t want to leave the house tonight. (last check my temp was 100.1) (I hope I don't come across as whining...I know that I am very blessed and others have it much worse than I...)
Since I didn’t have the energy for much else tonight and had the “chemo blahs”, I was doing some random searching on the internet. Don’t you just love it when God answers just at the right time? I came across a website called the Cancer Club. What a great encouragement for cancer patients…soo funny…loved the cartoons and hoping to be able to share them with you all as our journey continues…
Also wanted to let you know that after trying out numerous hats, scarves, wigs, etc…I finally found a “wrap” that doesn’t hurt my head…it is so comfortable that I forget I am wearing it…BLESSING!!! (my brothers say their heads don’t hurt when wearing a hat, but of course I think they were born with hats on, I certainly don’t plan on being bald long enough to get “used” to it.)
Hope all is going well with you all! Thanks for your prayers and everything else….my family and I are so blessed!
ps. I have pics of the benefit and will try and post these in a few days!
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