Ahh, the blessings of modern medicine.
Quality of life is what prompted Gary's cataract surgery today. When he had his last eye done in October, it left scar tissue which was zapped off by a laser last month and he could read again. The doctor offered to do his left eye and we jumped at it. So, this morning, an uneventful 20 minute procedure was performed and his recovery will be a few days of lounging around. Gary remembers his father's cataract surgery years ago where he had to have sand bags on his shoulders to keep his head from moving.
Chemo #Round 2 of 6 starts tomorrow night for 5 nights. A dear friend, Mz L. C., wrote Gary a very touching card that he received yesterday where she said the way she got through her chemo was to think that "chemo is her friend". Tough sometimes, but it's killing off the bad guys in the tumor. Last round of chemo proved to be pretty benign, other than fatigue. We're following Senator Kennedy's progress closely, for sure. Because his tumor was accessible, they could get tissue that will be used to create a vaccine. This procedure is on the back burner for Gary until things change. The location of Gay's tumor is very difficult to get to and they prefer not to go in for surgery. (It's at the thalamus, near the brain stem.)
Countdown to Alaska. One month to go. The whole family is pretty darned excited.
Thanks for your prayers. They surely do help.
God Bless You All,
Virginia and Gary
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
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Why now?
All is well, so why now?
Well, we have been extremely touched by the care and attention so many of you have showered upon us over the past 6 months (yes, this whole thing started 6 months ago, ie. 11/27/07). Throughout this time, we've had ups and downs and many of you have shared them with us and lifted us up with your love. When this first started, I sent out emails to our beloved prayer chain warriors, our faithful families and friends. Undoubtedly and unintentionally, people who care about both of us were missed.
As snowbirds, we have returned to our home in Bend, Oregon and we miss our "Southern Friends" who have done the same thing by going home to countless beautiful communities throughout the United States and Canada. This offers an opportunity to occasionally check on Gary's progress and post your comments.
My focus is Gary, so sometimes the phone call I "should" make to friends isn't made. I'll try to update this blogsite once a week to say hello and let you know how he's doing. Please don't hesitate to call us or check this blog from time to time and leave a comment.
We know that you worry about Gary and me and hope that this will give you some comfort.
Hope it works for you. Works for me.
We're sending our love to you through this blog. Please keep him in your prayers.
Virginia and Gary
Well, we have been extremely touched by the care and attention so many of you have showered upon us over the past 6 months (yes, this whole thing started 6 months ago, ie. 11/27/07). Throughout this time, we've had ups and downs and many of you have shared them with us and lifted us up with your love. When this first started, I sent out emails to our beloved prayer chain warriors, our faithful families and friends. Undoubtedly and unintentionally, people who care about both of us were missed.
As snowbirds, we have returned to our home in Bend, Oregon and we miss our "Southern Friends" who have done the same thing by going home to countless beautiful communities throughout the United States and Canada. This offers an opportunity to occasionally check on Gary's progress and post your comments.
My focus is Gary, so sometimes the phone call I "should" make to friends isn't made. I'll try to update this blogsite once a week to say hello and let you know how he's doing. Please don't hesitate to call us or check this blog from time to time and leave a comment.
We know that you worry about Gary and me and hope that this will give you some comfort.
Hope it works for you. Works for me.
We're sending our love to you through this blog. Please keep him in your prayers.
Virginia and Gary
5 comments:
Gary - how wonderful to have the cataract surgery out of the way and be able to lounge around and not have to wear sandbags like your dad when he had that surgery! Hope to see you soon. You're doing great....you're looking great. Hang in there!
Mosie
Hi guys;
Yes we've been keeping touch with the blog and we are very happy to hear that you are both doing so well.
"Maddie" is beatuiful. Your friend did her in her "Glory". I have an oil of Rocky and it is hung in the foyer to the bedroom and each night I see him before I retire. Never to be forgotten.
Gary, you never cease to amaze me. Catarac surgery and chemo. You're a champ and our prayers are with you.
Virginia you must see Sex in the City. Kesheyl and I went and it was amazing.
Take care you two and we'll be in touch.
Much love and admiration
Stan and Adie xooxooxo
Hello Grandfather and Grinni,
I just figured that I would check out this page and also to let you know that I love the both of you. Every day I pray for you guys, thus meaning I am always thinking about you two.
I can not wait until our Alaska Cruise I am so so so excited.
Love,
Laura Blair
Let's see if I can get this through to you guys.
Gary, I was absolutely delighted to talk with you a few minutes yesterday. You sound "great". The picture at the top of this blog shows you look great, too. Just want to send luv and lots of it. Ann
Hi V & G
It sounds like Gary is a REAL trooper!! We have enjoyed reading your blog and knowing that you're both doing well. The picture of Maddie is so beautiful (brought tears to my eyes) What a wonderful gift. Enjoy the warm weather, finally. Hang in there and know that we have you in our prayers.
June and Don Knowles
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