Hello from Sunny California!
We have just returned from a nice lunch at the famous California, "In N Out Burger" in Chico! My mom was feeling up for one of their delicious cheeesburgers, so we battled the long lines and had a deliciosu meal! Her caregiver Gayle, graciously joined us on her day off to attend the meeting with the doctor earlier. Despite everything happening to my mom, we actually all enjoyed visiting and laughing over stories after her doctor's appointment with the oncologist. Our meeting with him went very well, considering all the circumstances my mom is facing.
He reviewed all of her possible treatment options, and what they each meant in terms of prolonging survival. ALL would be very difficult for her body to endure, and would ultimately affect her quality of life, without curing the disease. Since we are aware of the terminal nature of this aggressive form of cancer, she has chosen not to pursue any additional treatments. Instead, she would like to enjoy the time she has remaining, and live it as fully as she is able.
Her doctor was encouraged by how well she has responded to her recent medication of the steroid, Decadron. It is reducing the swelling in her brain caused by the tumor and is enabling her to be more steady on her feet, reduce the tingling and numbness in her fingers and legs, and clearing some of that "fuzzy" and confused thinking. This medication will be used in combination with other methods to help her remain as comfortable as possible.
He suggested we call, "Hospice" and have them involved in her case as soon as possible. They will serve as a medical liason with her day time, and night time caregivers. Their assistance will be valuable to us as her wish is to remain at home, and with their help, this will be possible.
Later today, we are going to work on some scrapbooking, and continue to enjoy our time together! Rather than getting worried and frightened over the unkowns in her future, we have agreed to take each day as it comes, and are appreciating each moment we have!
I hope you, are doing the same today!
Monday, August 25, 2008
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9 comments:
Denise and Lorraine,
Thank you for the update!
Sheri
Denise,
Glad you made it to CA safely and that you are able to enjoy these times with your mom. It sounds like she has selected the option that is best for her. I know she loves having you with her.
Emma is meeting with Mrs. Z tomorow! Sounds like I'll be taking lessons with her too. Thanks for the referral.
Beth
Denise and Lorraine,
Thank you for the update. Glad you all enjoyed the cheeseburgers.
If there is anything that I can do, just let me know. I am saving Lorraine's place at Stamp Camp. If you don't feel like doing all of the projects, come and visit with us, we'll add to your card collection.
Lori
Denise and Lorraine,
Enjoy the rest of your visit. In-n-Out is one of my favorite places to eat also. Glad you were able to do that today!
Thank you for the update and for being such an inspiration to me and all who know you.
With love to you both!
Kim
Denise and Lorraine...Wow. I am so impressed with your choices and attitudes. More people need to live like this. Enjoy scrapbooking TODAY and may your time together be sweet.
All my love and prayers, Lorri
ps - I may just have to highlight your blog on mine today!
Denise and Lorraine~
Sending my thoughts and prayers to you after reading about you on Lorri's blog. You have an incredible will and heart. Thank you for reminding me of what is really important in life.
You'll be in my prayers.
Love,
Sue Bakalar
Hello Denise & Lorraine! I'm cheered to hear of your lovely lunch out at In 'n Out Burger, and that Denise was able to attend the oncologist appt. with you, Lorraine. I wish you peace and as much comfort as possible, physically-speaking. I'm so glad to hear that your body is responding well to the medication. Yay!
Big hugs across the miles,
love,
kim l.
Hi Denise!
It sounds like you and Lorraine made the right decision. It's wonderful that you get to spend quality time together. I love the John Mayer song "Say What You Need To Say," it's so true. Don't let a minute pass by without telling your Mom how amazing she is and how much you love her. You know who is enjoying school very much and LOVES her teacher...hooray!!! Talk to you soon.
Hi Denise!
Lorraine looks great in the photos. I'm so glad you posted them. I love what you wrote about your visit; it made me smile and cry at the same time. We are all fine here. Today is minimum day at school, so I'll be picking up you know who soon. Love and hugs to all.
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