Last Post 3/8/2010

As most of you know Mary went to be with Jesus on February 19th. I am sure she heard "well done thou good and faitful servant, enter in..." The last words she was able to speak to me was a couple of days before she passed away when I was laying down next to her. She point at something and looked at me and said, "Jesus loves me and Jesus loves you." Now she is dancing with the angels and singing and talking as we all knew Mary did. She fought a good fight until the last minute, She never lost sight that God was still on the Throne and in control. I don't understand why it had to be this way but God's way are higher than mine and someday I will understand. Her Memorial service was just what Mary would have wanted. There is not enought space here to thank all the people that did everything they could for us. I feel like we are the most blessed family ever with all the love and support we have recieved. Mary impacted a lot of lives in her 52 years, most of them serving the Lord and telling people about Jesus. Even on her last day she looked up and smiled the best she could. I will remember her laugh and her smile forever. I always said Mary was the best thing God blessed me with in my life. As much as I miss her I know I will see her again.

Thank you to everyone that has been there, not only for us but with us.

God Bless
Bob

January 22, 2010

Over the last month Mary’s pain level has increased to an unbearable level. We have been working with dr.’s to try to figure out what is causing it and how to treat it. Today we met with Agape Healthcare to start what is called Palliative care. We met with a Nurse Practitioner (she can write prescriptions) that deals with pain management to see what can be done to help Mary be more comfortable. She had a full schedule today but made some changes and came because she didn’t want Mary to have to wait till next week. I was very thankful. I would ask that you pray for blessings on Nurse Kelly. It was educational for me and it gave Mary some hope of not having to live in such pain. The nurse seems very familiar with this situation. She was very positive about getting Mary’s pain under control. The first prescription took me an hour and six pharmacists to find. Most of them have never heard of OXYFAST. The hope is to relieve the pain and still be coherent. They Oncologist also suspended the Avastin (Bio-Therapy) because Mary’s blood pressure is too high and the blood pressure drugs Mary is on are not helping get it down. Mary goes out for a walk or three every day and does a few exercises with a resistance band. The more the pain the harder it is for her to have a conversation and find the right words. It is very frustrating for her. Having Danielle back in the country is good for both Mary and I. She is at UNC in Greeley which is a little less than an hour drive and she calls a lot and comes home when she can. Being an RA keeps her busy and she can’t always leave on weekends. Shannon and Ben continue to do anything and everything they can to help out. As always we are thankful for all the prayers and support we get from all of you. We never take it for granted and always count it as blessings. Even though I don’t understand what God is doing, I know he is still on the throne and someday it will all be clear. This will be used to glorify God some way, somehow, some time.
God Bless
Bob and Mary

November 3, 2009

It’s been a long time since the last post and I have been encouraged to get with the program by some of you. It has been a rough three and a half months. After coming home from the hospital Mary started to improve, going from a walker to a cane and then walking on her own. A lot of physical therapy and speech therapy were resulting in great progress. Still had some physical deficits and impaired speech, but things were going in the right direction for a while. She underwent five Cyberknife treatments the first two weeks in September. Mary’s recovering went backwards from there. They warned us that things would get worse before they got better. Over the next two months swelling and other affects from the Cyberknife and a lot of medication changes for seizures, pain and anxiety have contributed to Mary’s struggle to get better. Many of you have been very, very helpful in trying to manage this situation and help facilitate her recovery. A lot of meals, friendship and whatever else they could do from family and friends have been very much appreciated. Today Mary had an MRI that was very encouraging. No sign of current tumors, a little swelling still but it is going down. That is very good news. Mary’s anxiety level is what we are trying to get under control now. Obviously she doesn’t feel like herself and that is the hardest part. I know God has promised never to leave her nor forsake her and to complete the work He began in her. I would ask for you to pray for a peace that only comes from God and for her to begin to really fell Gods presence.

Again, I cannot thank all of you enough for your prayers and support

God Bless,

Bob & Mary

Home from 4th surgery 7/12/09

Mary came home today. She is doing ok. The walk from the car (using the walker) was a workout using the walker. She navigated the two steps with me just there for a safety net and to help balance a little. Latter on Mary walked up the stairs with me being a handrail and there for a safety net and making suggestions on what to move. It takes and incredible amount of work to for her to walk with the walker and she has to think, sometime out loud, about what leg to move or move the walker. The physical therapist called it a “walker waltz”. “Walker, right leg, left leg”, “the walker three step”. Mary will be getting physical and occupational therapy a few days a week at home. She is very thankful for all of you that are praying and encouraging her. The therapist said Mary is very motivated, (like that’s new to us. Not) she has always been a hard worker and this situation will not change that. Please continue to pray for her recovery and Gods perfect peace. She talked to Danielle in France for a while today and that was great therapy in itself. I will keep you posted on her progress.
God Bless
Bob and Mary

July 10, 2009

This surgery was much more intrusive and in a more sensitive area. This is making the recovery a bit more difficult. After two and a half days in ICU she may be moved over to the INCA (Intermediate Neurological Care Area) today. The surgery was very close to the “Sensory Strip”. This has caused some deficit in her sensory perception on the right side. She will need some physical therapy and time to recover. Her speech is ok if she doesn’t try too hard. This is frustrating for her since her first three surgeries she bounced back so quickly. The physical therapist says Mary is “highly motivated” and I have walked into the room and Mary is doing her exercises when no one is in there. Just continue to pray for total recovery and that see can come home soon. Lying in the hospital is just compounding her frustration. We want to thank everyone for all the prayers and things you have done for us.
God bless
Bob and Mary.

Surgery update July 7, 2009

Surgery went very well. Dr Dixit was very pleased with how it went and all he accomplished. She came out of recovery talking and moving her hands. This was questionable when she went in. The number of miracles that happened in the last few days is overwhelming. The fact that Dr. Dixit was even here is a story in itself. He was on vacation and not supposed to be here. He didn’t even know Mary was here. When he found out he looked at her MRI’s, said it has to come out and scheduled the surgery. God moved in a mighty way. Pray for wisdom to know how to proceed.
God Bless
Bob and Mary

Surgery time July 7, 2009

Tomorrow (7/7/09) is Mary's birthday. It is also Surgery time again. Last Tuesday’s MRI showed another tumor. Since Tuesday it has continued to grow significantly with Mary winding up in the emergency room Saturday night and being admitted to the hospital as well. The events of this morning (7/6/09) are a story in itself for another time. More confusion than I was ready for and I am just thankful I was not kick out of the hospital. To make a long story short with a miracle included Mary will be in surgery tomorrow at 1:00 p.m. This surgery is in a very sensitive area so pray no permanent damage is done. Also pray for wisdom and clarity on what to do after this surgery.
God Bless,
Bob & Mary

May 21, 2009 Home

We thank you for the responses but sometimes we don't know who they come from if you don't leave us you name.

We got home last night about 1:00 a.m., and are trying to get settled into the routine. In a way it was hard to leave the Oasis of Hope. We met a lot of great people. The staff and the other patients were awesome to get to know. Mary has a six week program that will take a bit of discipline but she can do it. Getting back to a regular life is a transition. Mary is busy helping Danielle get ready for her studies abroad. A lot more to it than I thought. God continues to show Himself wonderful in everything that is going on. Prayer request is for God’s continued presence though everything. Going forward Mary will have another MRI in late June and then will be going back to the Oasis of Hope for a six day follow-up in July.

We are very aware of all your prayers. And appreciate you very much.

God Bless
Bob & Mary

Oasis of Hope 5/19/09

Yesterday (5/18/09)
We picked up all of Mary’s nutraceuticals for the six week home treatment phase. Lots of pills. We are going to enjoy today since Mary has no more IV’s. No more needles. That is a good thing. We continue to meet people from all over the world. A German gentleman from South Africa came in last night after spending 34 hours on airplanes to get here. He said when he was diagnosed with prostrate cancer he wouldn’t take chemo or radiation so he came here. Other new arrivals yesterday from Portland, Or, and Northern Ireland. It is neat meeting people from all around the world with a strong faith in Jesus Christ. Listening to testimonies is very encouraging. We will be back home very late tomorrow night.

God Bless
Bob & Mary.

Oasis of Hope 5/18/09

Sunday (5/17/09) was Mary’s last day of IV treatments at the Oasis of Hope in Mexico. She is ready to go home to say the least. It has been good here but it is time to go home and start the second phase. That will consist of oral treatments she will do daily. Mary is part of everyone else’s therapy here. She is being used by God to encourage everyone she comes in contact with. One Dr. said she needed to put her attitude and faith in a bottle so he could give it to other patients. One girl hear said Mary has been her greatest encouragement and doesn’t want her to leave. We will be home late Wed. night.

God Bless
Bob & Mary.

May 7, 2009 Mexico

Our trip here yesterday was good, no holdups. After meeting with the Dr.’s we feel very good about this facility. Staff is great, even the food is great. No one eats in there room unless they are bed ridden. Everyone eats in the cafeteria if they can make it. The focus is on Mary’s immune system and getting it up to full health. I will give more details as we learn more. After settling in and giving blood we went for a walk to the beach. Mostly families playing in the water. Not as nice as a Hawaiian resort but ok. We are on the west side of Tijuana in an area called “Playas”. They tell us this is the safe side. Made me think of Arvada compared to Aurora. We are a stone’s throw from America. I will update this when I can. As always we appreciate all your prayers.
God Bless
Bob & Mary.

MEXICO Bound

Tomorrow, May 6th we leave to Mexico for some treatment for Mary. We are going to the Oasis of Hope in Tijuana. After much prayer and research we believe this is our next step and is what we believe God would have us to do. Mary cannot take any more Chemotherapy or any of the other harsh drugs. There have been many confirming signs and leadings in this direction. This will be a two week stay for Mary. I will be going with her and staying for a while and then Shannon and Danielle will be going down to stay with her while I am back at work. I will return to be with her the last 4 or 5 days and bring her home. Your prayers have been felt and appreciated and we ask that you continue bringing Mary before the Lord. We have been encouraged by your standing with us on the journey.

God Bless you all,

Bob & Mary

April 17 2009 MRI

Today Mary had an MRI. It’s been a little over 5 weeks since surgery. It was good, no growth has happened since the surgery. Her blood continues to get better. Very, very, very, close to all counts being normal. Through lots of prayer and research Mary has decided on a different path than radiation and chemotherapy. There is a lot of evidence that cancer cells build up resistance to chemotherapy, especially in recurrences, making it less effective on the cancer and still very harmful with multiple serious side effects. We have looked into and researched a lot of options. We have contacted a Hospital in Mexico about some alternative therapy without the severe side effects of chemotherapy. They have a lot of testimonies and 45 years of experience with cancer patients. Everyone has a different opinion about what Mary should be doing but I think we can all agree God is in control and we believe this is the direction God is leading in. We appreciate all you prayers. As I have said many times pray for clarity in Gods direction for Mary.
God Bless you all,
Bob & Mary

Stiches Removed

Mary had her stitches removed Monday (3/23/09). The incision is healing well. The biopsy was positive for GBM tumor. After talking with both the Oncologist and the Surgeon Mary’s next course of action is an MRI on April 23rd. The Surgeon wanted to wait a month and have another MRI. After that we will discuss the next step. Maybe some radiation. Sometimes you think you would know what you would do if this or that happens, but it’s a whole different thing when it happens to you. Continue to pray for wisdom and clarity for Mary. I know Mary is always before God because of all your prayers, and we thank you.
God Bless.

March 19, 2009

We are going to the oncologist today to discuss next the steps. Mary does not want the harsh chemotherapy. Pray for direction and clarity from God as to how to proceed. Monday (3/23/09) we go to Dr. Dixit to get the stitches out and see what the biopsy said. I will let you know how it all goes.

Home, March 12, 2009

Mary came home today. Now she can rest without wires and tubes and sensors of all kinds connected to her. Her speech is much better today. The Speech therapist came in today and Mary will make an appointment with her. I don't know if the speech therapist will be able to keep up with Mary. The outside swelling is gone and the inside seems to be dissipating also. She will be on steroids for about a week to help the swelling. All things considered she is doing very well. I know you all have held her up before the Lord and I know that is why she is doing so well. Mary wrote a note she wanted everyone to hear. Sarah and Nili read it a couple times in the waiting room and I would like all of you to see it. She sees all of you as her Stretcher Bearers.

"Note to my stretcher bearers,
Thank you! I am blessed beyond measure. Thank you for your prayers, your faith, your obedience to the Lord, your love, your friendship and your constant vigilance. May the Lord bless you. May His presence continually abide with you. Our God is faithful.

I want you to know I am Saved, Sealed, Blessed and Healed. In Jesus Name Amen”

Mary.

Even though Mary was the patient being operated on and attended to, she made sure everyone that came in contact with her knew she was in God’s hands. If someone said good luck, without hesitation she corrected them and let them know she served a Great and mighty God. If someone commented on how well she was doing, again she pointed them back to Jesus as the source of her strength. Mary made sure God was glorified. I believe everyone from the Surgeon to the nurse know Mary is a child of the King. Yesterday I stopped people from going into see her for several hours so she could get some rest. The nurse asked me if I wanted to limit the visitors to, in her words “just family” I told her everyone that was coming to see her, are her family. I should have explained it a little better. Some by Mary’s blood and some by Jesus blood.

I hope you will forgive me if I didn’t let you in to see her. I felt she needed some rest. I was watching the heart monitor and when she was trying to get the right words out it was going up 20 or 30 bpm. So I did what I felt was best for her.

I don’t know if you all will ever really know how much we appreciate all your visits and calls and prayers, and just simply being there for us. We are blessed.

May God bless you all abundantly.

Day after surgery, March 11, 2009

Today was a good day. Mary is doing well. She was up doing laps around the INCA ward. They wouldn't let her out of the area. She is still having some problems with getting the right words out. She thinks it right, but it doesn't alwasy come out right. This happened the last two surgeries as well. The surgeon says the brain is mad about being invaded. He is not worried about it, and says it will come back. Her strength is good in her hands, which is a very good sign no other brain damage was done. Mary had an MRI this morning and the surgeon came by this afternoon to talk about what is says. He says he got what he wanted to get without causing more permanet damage. As you know they never tell you they got it all with a GBM type tumor because of all the little finges of the tumor. She should be coming home tomorrow some time. In a couple of weeks we will be meeting with the oncologist to discuss the next steps. As we have stated Mary does not want to go through the Chemotheray again. She never was able to take it very well and it does take a toll. They may do some low level focused radiation treatments. No more whole brain radiation. This next step is where we really need the mind of the Lord to make decissions.

Thank you all for all you mean to us.

Surgery March 10, 2009

We checked into Lutheran at 7:30 a.m. MRI was scheduled for 8:15 but with the normal confusion it was 9:00 for the MRI. Surgery scheduled for 12:00 was postponed until 12:45. then 2:00 then 3:00. They started about 3:40. Long wait but because of all the family and friends being there it made it OK. Lot's of laughing and sharing. A few people at a time went back to the pre-op room Mary was in and spent time with her talking and praying. It is beyond words to express how great this was for Mary and me. The surgeon was pleased with how well the surgery went. Mary came out of surgery and as soon as she was awake was smiling and moving her hands, which by the way is a good sign. Once in her room she was talking pretty good for just coming out of surgery. As the surgery drugs began to ware off and she started felling some pain the gave her medication for the pain and she started fading in and out and saying the right words became harder for her. That was frustrating for her. She went to sleep about 10:00 p.m.

I can not say thank you enough for all those praying for her and visiting her. We know she is in God's hands and you all keep her before him in prayer.

I will let you know how tomorrow goes.

God Bless

Bob

Surgery Schedule 3/10/09

Mary will be going into surgery on Tuesday March 10th. She checks in at the hospital at 7:30 a.m. She will have an MRI at 8:15 a.m. The surgery is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. Monday morning she has to have the blood work done. We appreciate all your payers as we know all of this is in Gods hands. Mary should only be in the Hospital two to three days at the most. Last time she was home in less than 48 hours. Although this is stressfull Mary has total faith and trust in what God is doing and knows He is going through this at her side. Continue to pray for clarity and wisdom for the decisions that will need to be made about what to do aftere surgery.

God bless

Surgery Scheduled

We met with the Brain Surgeon today. Surgery is scheduled for next Tuesday (3/10/09) We are waiting for confirmation but as of now she needs to be there at 6:00am for all the preparation stuff. I will let you know as soon as I do what time the actual surgery is scheduled for. The surgeon seamed more positive than he was a couple of years ago. I think seeing how well Mary was doing had an impact on him. He has not seen many GBM patients go this long considering how large Mary's first Tumor was. We know God is in control and maybe through this, God can use Mary to bring the surgeon to know Christ. You never know what God may do or how he will do it.

Your prayers are always appreciated and felt. Pray for Dr. Dixit also.

FEBRUARY 26 2009 PM

Mary has an appointment Monday at 11:30 with the Brain Surgeon. They don't want to give this thing anytime to grow. I will keep you updated.

FEBRUARY 26 2009 PM

Mary has an appointment Monday at 11:30 with the Brain Surgeon. They don't want to give this thing anytime to grow. I will keep you updated.

It's been a long time

February 26 2009
It's been a long time since we posted anything because it's been a long time since anything has changed. Over the past two and a half years Mary has continued to get better. The only evidence of anything was an area of her hair not growing back. In December she had a seizer. They did and MRI and saw nothing had changed and her blood counts continued to get better. Yesterday (2/25/09) when we went for her regular eight week MRI. This one shows a recurrence. A small spot in the middle of where the original tumar was remove. Today the doctors will meet and discuss what options Mary has. He Oncologist is leaning toward surgery for two reasons. One remove what ever it is and two, be able to analyze what it is. There are going to be some other options but we have not heard them all yet. Please keep Mary in prayer for clarity and wisdom in making decisions. As well as praying for the doctors. We have appreciated you prayers through out this time and know God has moved on her because of you prayers.

February 20th 2008

Today was another very good day. Mary’s MRI shows no new tumor growth. It’s been three months since any Chemotherapy and eight weeks since the last MRI, so this is very good news. The Biotherapies will continue for now. She is still having a Lung treatment once a month to prevent phenomena. Over all she is doing great. God is on the thrown and by his Grace Mary will skew the survival rates for this cancer. We plan on a very active summer outdoors. With Shannon and Ben getting married in July Mary is very thankful to be here for this big event.
As always we appreciate your prayers. May is live proof they are answered.

God bless you all.

WAY PAST DUE UPDATE

Tuesday November 27: At the regularly scheduled Chemotherapy visit which has been every week for about a year now Dr. told Mary she is done with Chemotherapy. A couple of reasons, one is that Mary has been given about every Chemotherapy know to man and her Platlets have been down too low and not recovering like they should. The other reason the Dr. gave is Mary has been take multiple Chemotherapies simultaneously (as many as 4 at a time between IV’s and pills) for this past year and that is enough. With four good MRIs it is time to move on to other therapies. This is good news but doesn’t mean it’s over. Mary is now on three Biotherapies (Pill form) simultaneously. She still needs prays for her immune system to rebuild. We know it is God hearing your prayers, and the fact the He just loves Mary anyway, that has made Mary’s ongoing recovery go well. So please keep reminding Him and keep Mary before the Lord. The one good thing about the end of Chemotherapy is not having to go to the Dr. every week. If you have ever done that you know it gets old fast. Starting in January it will be once a month and in a couple of months maybe every 2 months. That is how long it is between MRIs. Don’t know how long the Biotherapies will last. Having gone a year since last surgery is a milestone in itself. We pray you all have a Blessed Christmas.

I will be changing the picture as soon as I find the one I am looking for.

Thank you
Bob, Mary, Shannon, Danielle.

It's been a long time, Sorry

Sorry it has been so long since I updated this. Mary is doing well and going through Chemotherapy and biotherapy. She has and MRI every 8 weeks or so to monitor the progress. The last two MRI’s have been good. They are getting clearer each time. There is evidence of surgery but no real evidence of the tumor. The oncologist say she will continue with the Chemotherapy and Biotherapy having a MRI every 8 weeks. She is getting stronger. We have done some bike rides and out walking a lot. We were even going to climb a 14er last week but I took a digger playing softball so we had to cancel climbing Princeton with Shannon, Danielle, Ben and Crystal. So we went for a drive in the mountains. We wound up driving up Mt. Evens and then climbed up to the summit (14,249 feet). So actually we did climb a 14er after all. We are still thankful for all your prayers and support. On another note, for those of you who know Rich and Bernie Schiavone and have not heard, Rich was in a serious accident June 22nd and is still in St. Anthony’s Central. Please pray for his recovery as he is in a comma with a respirator but not on life support. They have a lot of support from family and friends which I know is very important. Mary and I know what a great blessing friends and family are. We appreciate you all.

GREAT NEWS

GREAT NEWS. Mary had an MRI today and it came back clear. No evidence of tumor material. This is what we have all been praying for and we are very thankful for all of your prayers. We know it is not the end of the fight but it is a huge milestone. As treatments continue she is being taken off the Dexamethazone (a harsh steroid) over the next week or so. She was also scheduled for a Chemotherapy treatment but her platelet count was too low. She goes back on Friday to see if she can get the chemotherapy. Please be praying they will be able to take her off of the Keppra, (anti-seizure) medication. She has gone over six months since the last seizure. Again today is a very good day. We have no doubt your prayers are being heard and answered. Continue to pray for Mary’s blood counts to come up to good levels on there own with out infusions or transfusions. Thank you again and God bless you all.

I know it has been a long time since I posted anything. I apologize for that. Mary’s blood counts came back up to an acceptable level for more Chemotherapy. Two weeks ago she had a full day of Chemo thru IV. One of CPT11 and one or Taxol. Then 5 days of Temodar (pill form). That made he a little tired for a few days but not enough to keep her down. Since then her counts continue to build with out any intervention. The end of this month Mary will have another MRI. As always they are continuing to tweak on her medication. They lower some doses and take some away while adding others. She is taking the Thalidomide (bio-therapy) now but whether or not she can take it long term is still undecided. It does have its side effects. Over all Mary is doing well considering everything. We continue to be blessed by all of you and we are very thankful. We continue to pray God’s blessing on you all. Thank you so much for all your prayers and support.

Yesterdays (3/13/03) blood test came back showing low counts still. But not to the extent that she had another infusion or transfusion. They will check again tomorrow (Thursday). At that time the counts will be going up on there own or she will receive another transfusion and maybe another platelet infusion. Mary’s doctor has said will be able to drive again in April. That will be a great blessing for Mary as she will have a little more freedom to get out and about. It has been six months since she was able to drive. All of you who have been there to take Mary to all the different appointments and vending and wherever else she needed to go we pray special blessing on all of you. You have blessed us in a very special way. Many of you continue to bless us in ways that are only inspired by God himself and we are more than grateful. We continue to pray for all of you.

Thank you
Bob & Mary

Saturday Mary had another Platelet infusion. She says she feels better after an infusion even if she didn’t feel bad before it. Today (3/13/07) we go see the Doctor and get her blood tested. Mary is still very optimistic and continues to have a positive attitude in all that is going on. Please pray for wisdom going forward with decisions about treatments. Thank you all for your prayers and support

Today (Monday 3/5/07) Mary’s blood test came back indicating low platelets and low red cell count. Because of this she will be having a Blood Transfusion tomorrow at Swedish Medical Center. Please keep Mary in your prayers. Mary has been blessed so far without some of the real issues that most people go through. This is a real issue that we need God’s grace and peace to be with Mary. We have seen prays answered since this began so we are praying expecting to see God move again. Thank you all for your continued prayers and support.

Sorry for the confusion. I will try to clarify. Mary had a Platelets INFUSION. I have never heard of such a thing. Mary’s red cell count was down a little also so they have given her something to help them build back up. She is at home now.. Friday they will check her platelets to see where they are at. Then they will check then again on Monday. Today they were down to 3000. They have to get over 100,000 to even think of going on with more chemotherapy treatments. The doctor really wants here above 150,000 but will give a lighter dose of Chemotherapy if they are above 100,000. I want to thank everyone that has help Mary. I am feeling stranded and helpless being out of town. Please pray she recovers quickly.

Bob

2/28/07 Platelet Transfusion

Mary did not have to have the blood transfusion, she ended up having a platelet transfusion. She will be heading home from Swedish Medical Center today. Please pray that the platelet transfusion will give her enough time to build up her own white blood cell count.

2/28/07 Low White Cell Count

Mary received her blood count test results this morning. The results came back with her white blood count extremely low. She was taken to Swedish Medical Center and will be given a blood transfusion. We will update the blog when we get further information. Please pray that the transfusion will go well, and that Gods grace and love will sustain Mary at this time.

Today (2/6/07) Mary started her next round of therapy. To begin they took an MRI. The results are good. Very little evidence of what might be any tumor left. Considering how fast it had grown between surgeries, which were only a few weeks. Compared to now three months latter. It is good news. It’s not over yet. For three days she will have a four hour chemotherapy drip called BCNU. Along with five days of Temodar pills at night. They are also talking about introducing a BIO therapy into the treatment. This will be long term therapy on top of everything else they are doing. It is probably a three year therapy. The drug in question is Thalidomide. It is somewhat controversial. I am getting all the information I can on it. We need prayers about this treatment. We do have some options, but this is the oncologist’s first choice. Please keep praying, we need some guidance and peace about how to proceed. On a lighter note, looks like Mary can drive starting in April. (The six month rule of thumb deal).

God bless and thank you for you prayers and support.

I know it has been awhile since I updated this. Mary has had a short break from any kind of therapy. They have cut back on her medications which mean her body has to get used to it. She went from 8mg of steroids a day down to 1mg. She gets a little tired but as her body adjusts it will get better. This Tuesday (2/6/07) Mary will have and MRI to she where she is at. It has been over 2 months since the last one. This is the first chance to get a clean picture since her last surgery. Also Tuesday she will begin three days of chemotherapy IV drip, four hours each day. Along with Chemotherapy pills each night for five days. Wednesday they will do a lung capacity test to be sure of her health in going forward with different treatments. We continually are blessed by all of you and your support. A card in the mail here, a call there, they are all very encouraging. I will update this will the results from the MRI. Thank you all and God bless you abundantly.

Mary is a Graduate

Thursday (1/11) Mary finished her Raditation Therapy and received her “Certificate of Perfect Attendance” This is due to everyone that helped take her to the appointments. We thank you very much. A couple of days before (Tuedsay) she was also able get her last Chemotherapy Treatment. Her platelets we not great but high enough to get the treatment. It was November 22nd when she started the treatments and because of your prayers, support and God’s grace Mary has finished this first phase very well. So here is the next phase. January 18th we meet with the Oncologist to hear more details of what’s coming. This we do know. They will not take an MRI until February 7th to be sure that all the effects of the Radiation are gone (swelling, edema, etc.) Also on the 7th she will be tested for lung capacity to be sure she can take the next phase. Mary will have three days (7th, 8th, and 9th) of four hour a day Chemotherapy IV drip. That is all we know right now. I will update this after January 18th. Our prayers are that the MRI comes back and dumfounds the Dr’s. Three things that continue to make an impression on Mary’s heart is God’s Peace, God’s Presence, and God’s Provision. A day does not go by that we don’t thank God for all of you that pray and support us. We daily ask God’s blessing on all of you.

Thank you.

Yesterday (1/3) Mary was once again unable to get her Chemotherapy treatment due to a low Platelet count. Even though she feels good, the numbers tell all. We believe God has a say in how much of each treatment Mary needs so we are not concerned about missing a couple of treatments. Tomorrow she starts a 5 treatment Radiation boost that will be the last of the Radiation. They will concentrate the Radiation to just the tumor recession location and none of the surrounding areas. Since she began they have radiated the tumor location and the surrounding area to be sure to get the smaller finger like parts of the tumor. She may have one more Chemotherapy treatment next Tuesday if her Platelet count is up high enough. Then Mary will get a little bit of a break. We are not sure exactly how long. The Oncologist said he would like a MRI a month after Radiation ends. Thank you all again for everything, we are very grateful for the friends and family God has blessed us with.

Platelets

Today at Mary’s chemotherapy appointment she was un-able to have the IV drip due to a low Platelet count. The range needs to be 150 to 450. Last week she had dropped to 132 but was still ok for the IV drip. Today she had dropped below 50 so both the IV drip and her daily Chemotherapy pills are on hold until at least next week when the re-check her Platelet Count. The Platelets are the blood cells essential for coagulation. The Oncologists concern is she would go so low that Mary would need a Platelet Transfusion. He wants to avoid that so we will wait a week and see what happens. If you didn’t know what Mary had been through the last 4 months, and she had her wig on, you would not know anything was going on. I am convinced, all of your prayers and keeping her lifted up before God is the reason she is doing do good. God is moving on her behalf in many ways. We are continually overwhelmed with the incredible support and generosity that we have been blessed with. Mary has had some visits with you that are almost like revivals to the soul. Many tears of gratitude have flowed in our family during this time. Pray for the Platelet Count to go up to what it needs to be. Mary has about two more weeks of Radiation left. The last few treatments are going to be intense and very focused so pray for her strength. The Radiologist says it can be physically draining. We pray God’s blessings on everyone of you that are praying for her. If you ever wondered if your prayers are being answered, I can assure you they are. The Physicians are seeing it to. They may not no what it is but they are encouraged by how Mary is doing and that, is the grace of God answering your prayers. We can’t thank you enough.

Tomorrow (Monday 12/18) we will be going back to the Surgeon for a scheduled follow up. She also will begin the fourth week of therapy; Radiation and two types of Chemotherapy. Radiation has taken its toll on Mary’s hair. Attached are some pictures so you won’t be surprised when you see her. Her spirit is good and her faith is high. She is experiencing the awesome power of people praying for her. She has not gotten sick from any of the three treatments she is undergoing. God does hear your prayers and Mary feels it. Mary has been completely awed by the grace God has given. The verse she asked to share is Phil 4:7 “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
Many of the fine motor skills Mary had lost are coming back. She able to write in her journal and do many of the things she wasn’t able to do 3 weeks ago. Again, God’s grace and your prayers answered.
I have had to travel the last couple of weeks and again this week for a few days. I am continually overwhelmed by all the help and support we are receiving form all of you. Mary has enjoyed the visits by many of you who have come by to encourage her and pray with her or just say hi. She is working out with Stephanie, and Jamie once a week and soon will be very buff. I am going to have to do something to keep up. We know there is a lot ahead of us but God is teaching us to lean on him daily. It’s only right since all of you have been such a blessing to us that I take a minute and pray a blessing on you. You have heard this many times I’m sure, it is the blessing that the Lord spoke to Moses to tell Aaron and his sons how to bless the children of Israel. And now I pray if for you,
“The Lord bless you and keep you;
The Lord make His face shine upon you,
And be gracious to you;
The Lord lift up His countenance upon you,
And give you peace”. Num 7:24-26

Yesterday Mary had her second IV Chemotherapy. That really runs her down. Today she said she is doing well, a little tired. She slept well last night and did not get sick. We believe all you prayers are help with the known side effects of all of her treatments. Mary is about to the point in her treatments were these side effects really start to appear. Please keep praying for God to intervene on her behalf and spare her any discomfort from these treatments. She did have a CT scan on Tuesday. There is a lot of swelling still so any reduction of Decadron (drug for swelling) is unlikely. We were hopping they would lower the amount she needs. It is a steroid and has negative side effects. Mary’s faith is high, and she knows God is still in control. We thank all of you for all your prayers, support, blessings and everything you are doing to help us in this time.

Thank you

It has taken me a week to figure out how or what to say. Last week we received an incredible blessing from many of you. I still don’t know how to say thank you in a way that really expresses our gratitude. The timing was perfect. All we can do is thank you and we always pray God’s blessings on all of you.

Thank you, Bob, Mary, Danielle, Shannon.

Mary's First IV Chemotherapy

As you all know yesterday was Mary’s first IV Chemotherapy. It took about three hours for this first trip. About an hour of explanations, instruction and what to expect for side effects. They first give her an IV of anti-nausea medication and then the Chemotherapy drug, short name is CPT-11. Mary also got a flew shot and they highly recommended I get one so, the chicken that I am, I held my belt in my mouth and let them stab me with the hypo. That may be a little exaggerated. She felt fine after the treatment. They also tweeked on her medications. They lowered her Decadron (Steriod) a little and are taking her off the Atavin, or at least to an as needed amount. They did add a drug that she will take only on Saturday’s and Sunday’s to prevent Pneumonia. Mary slept good last night and said she even had a dream which she has not had for a while. We went from Chemotherapy to a Radiation treatment. The Radiation machine was broken when we got there so we had to wait about an hour, but we were about 15 min late anyway. No big deal. We believe all your prayers are working and we continue to thank you for them. We always pray for God’s great blessings on you all. We know have a much different perspective on how great the body of Christ is. Thank you.

Monday I went to Radiation with Mary an took a couple of pictures. It only takes about 10 min. but during that time her head is bolted down to the table with this mask. Mary reminded me of this scripture today, II Corin.12:9 “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.”

As you know last week Mary started Radiation and Chemotherapy. She received Radiation Monday – Wednesday, and has been taking Chemotherapy pills (Temodar) every night since Monday. So far she hasn’t been sick or had any obvious side effects. They say it will take two to three weeks to see any side effects from Radiation. The chemotherapy is different in everyone. This Tuesday (11/28) she will start the IV chemotherapy. That will take about an hour and a half to two hours once a week. Mary still wants to do everything but is having to learn she needs to rest more for now. Short visits seem to work good if she is awake already. We have walked a few times just to get out of the house and move around. Friday we walked for an hour and a half, which was a good walk. Keep praying for her motor functions to get better. As always we thank you for your prayers and support.

Bob

God id Good

Mary had her first radiation treatment and her first dose of oral chemotherapy yesterday. This morning she woke up feeling wonderful with renewed energy and less anxiety. There were no side effect from either treatment so Praise the Lord. Please continue to pray that she has no side effect from either kind of Chemo or the radiation. Please pray the she would have a good energy level and that she would fell the presence of the Lord in her day to day activities.

Change of plans. We found out this morning (Mon) that the Radiology dept. will be closed for the holiday (thursday - sunday) After several phone calls and discussions Mary started radiation today at 1:00. She will have two more seseions Tuesday and Wednesday at 4:00. Then will start again Monday. Mary also started on the Temodar tonight (Mon). Pray for Mary to go through these theropies with no problems and that they produce the best results possible. As always we are still believing for God to do great things through this time.

We went to the Dr. today and Mary got her staples out. (19 of them) Dr. Dixit (Surgeon) was very pleased with how well Mary is doing. He ran her through a few dexterity tests and was happy with the progress Mary has made. One of the main reasons for waiting two weeks to start radiations is so she could heal. The radiation has a negative affect on the skin healing. He wants the skin to heal well first. Now the hard part starts, radiation and Chemotherapy. Wed Nov. 22 Mary will have her first radiation treatment. That night she will start Chemotherapy. It will be Temodar which is in a pill form. Nov. 28th she will begin another Chemotherapy that is an IV at the doctors office. That will be at the Colorado Neurological Institute at Swedish with Dr. Arenson. That will be once a week and it takes 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Mary has a very optimistic attitude that is directly related to her strong faith in what God is doing. She has been working hard on getting her right arm and hand working. Mary's been writting scriptures alot and working on her signature which a week ago she could not even make a legible word. Today it is looking good. She is a fighter and knows who she believes in. Their is no doubt God is in control. Keep praying for healing, strength and limited side effects of the drugs. We never say a prayer without thanking God for all the support and prayers we get from all of you. We are praying God blesses everone of you in a special way. All of you have been more than we could ask for. Thank you.

All is going well with Mary. We went out yesterday for a good walk. It was nice to get out of the house. The plan has not changed she will be getting her staples out on friday and start Radidation and one of the Chemotherapies on Wednesday. She is very anxious to get started. Waiting for the next step is hard but she needs to be strong for the multiple therapies she will be going through. Mary is working on her motor skills by writting a little and it is getting better. We appreciate all the things everyone is doing. I will post an update Friday after we see the Dr. and get the staples out.

Home Sweet Home

Mary is home from the hospital and she is doing well. Her spirits are up and she is glad to be home sweet home.

She will get her staples out on November 17th and start radiation treatments on the 22nd. Chemotherapy will start simultaneously with the radiation around the 22nd or so.

Please pray that no infection would enter her body and that the peace of the Lord would be over the Strickland house.

Mary had an MRI this morning. The Dr. said it looked as good as he could of asked for. There is still small pieces of turmor that the chemo/radiation will be dealing with. She is very tired and I am having to make her sleep and not talk to visitors. So please don't be offended it you can't get in to see her. The Dr. is hoping to let Mary go home tomorrow. Infection is still a big concern so I will try to keep anyone who has a cold or is sick away from her for a while. The chemotherapy will lower her white cell count which will affect her immune system. The plan now is, ten days and she will get her staples out, then four days latter she will start Chemo/radiation. This is the plan now and plans can change.

Mary would like a day of rest today so she is asking for no visitors until after 3:00 today or even tomorrow. She needs so quiet time to help her physically as well as emotionally. Please keep praying for speedy recovery. Mary's anxiety level is very high. Pray Gods peace for her spirit.

Thank you
Bob

Surgery

Praise God, Mary made it through the surgery very well. She was alert about 20 minutes after she got into the recovery room. She was moving and talking better than the Dr anticipated at this point. She is very tired and wants to just sleep tonight.

The tumor was larger than the Dr. anticipated but he was pleased with how much he was able to remove. Due to the type of tumor (GBM) there are tentcale like part that he could not get to without invading a critical part of the brain. These small remaining tumor cells will be delt with by the Chemotherapy and Radiation.

Her heart rate is a little high and they are watching it closely.

The Dr. was very pleased with the way surgery went and how quickly she recovered and was talking.

The biggest concern at this point is that Mary would not get an infection. They are putting her on a large dose of antibiotics and watching her carefully.

Bob and the girls are doing well and happy with the outcome of the surgery.

For those of you who would like to post a comment but could not, you can now. Just check "other" after your commet and type your name.

Mary will be having surgery Tuesday at 1:00 p.m. at Lutheran Hospital in Wheat Ridge. They will be removing a very aggressive tumor according to the Dr. He also mentioned that there is more of a risk that this surgery could affect her speech and motor skills. The Doctors would like to start Chemotherapy within a week of the surgery, they will evaluate after the surgery when they will start radiation.

She is in good spirits and totally relying on God for Grace and strength.

Please pray that the Lord will give his great wisdom to the Dr's, and strength for Bob and the s.

She will also welcome visitors, but only for brief visitations starting Wednesday.

Upcoming Surgery

Mary will check into the hospital on Monday at 10:00 a.m. She will be receiving interveinious steroids to aleviate the swelling. She will have surgery on Tuesday at 1:00 p.m. Please pray the for the Lord's presence and peace at this time.

Another Surgery

We went the Oncologist today because Mary was going to start Radiation and Chemotherapy today. They took a MRI to get a new baseline so they could track the progress of the therapy. The MRI revealed that the tumor has grown significantly since the post surgery MRI. This changes the plan. Mary will be going back into the hospital Monday for another surgery. The plan now is to remove as much of the tumor as possible and then as soon as possible (1 to 2 weeks) begin the Radiation and Chemotherapy. The therapy will be very aggressive including Radiation and at least 2 chemotherapy drugs, maybe 3. The growth of the tumor does explain the symptoms Mary has been experiencing the last several days. She has lost some usage of her right arm, and even though she knows what she wants to say in her head, sometimes it doesn’t always come out the way she is thinking it. At first they thought it was post surgery swelling. Now they know for sure. They have Mary on several medications that she doesn’t really like but knows she has to take them. She wants everyone to know how much she loves and appreciates everyone but can’t do a lot of visiting and talking. Above everything God is still in control. He may not be following my plan but He is in control and we just want to be in His plan. A lot of people are asking what they can do to help. Prayer is always the first thing. Keep Mary always before the Lord. When you talk to Mary please keep it positive. She has a great attitude and people with positive attitudes help that a lot. Mary is still Mary but just has to slow down a notch or two and that is frustrating for her. She still has makes me laugh. We can’t thank all of you enough for your support and we do pray for God’s special blessings on all of you

Met with an Oncologist today and will be meeting with another one on Monday to see what options we have. Some are more aggressive than others so we need to understand all we can. No matter which one we go with it looks like Mary will be starting Radiation and Chemotherapy within the next week or so. We know God is in this and will give us peace about which way to go. Because Mary is strong and young for this grade of cancer she can handle and aggressive treatment. Continue to pray for Gods peace on us in this time of decision making. Mary's medication will be going through some changes so pray it all goes well.

October 25 2006

Met with the Dr. today. He has refered us to two different Oncologists. One at Swedish Medical Center, and one at Rocky Mtn. Cancer. We have a meeting tomorrow at Swedish and are still waiting to get an appointment with Rocky Mtn. Cancer. Surgery was ruled out because it would push the Chemotherapy and Radiation treatments out to far. The consensus with the University board was treatments need to start soon. Another surgery today would have pushed it out another 6 weeks and there wasn't enough evidence justify another surgery now. That is good thing. The surgeon told us again that this is unlike any other GBM tumor they have seen. Mary always has to be different. But the pathology was looked at my several Dr.'s and all came to the same conclusion, and that is the only true way to determine what a tumor is. We are still trusting God for a miracle and healing touch. And at the same time need to proceed with the Medical treatments. Mary is strong in both her faith and physically. Two important keys when looking at these treatments. We are trying to adjust to the waiting. That is kind of hard. She is still on the Dilantin and Steriods. Mary and the steriods don't get along to well but she is dealing with it. We will let you know when we know more.

Thank you for all you prayers and support in all the different ways you have shown it.

Bob

October 24, 2006
We heard from the Doctor today that surgery is not necessary at this time. We meet with him tomorrow to see what treatment options Mary has. It will be some kinda of Chemotheropy and Radiation. When and exactly what we don't know yet. We appreciate all the support and prayers we have recieved. We will update this when we know more. Please pray for clarity in understanding the options and wisdom to know how to proceed.

October 16. 2006

We went to the Doctor today to hear the Pathology report. It was not what we had hoped to hear but we know God is still in control. The results reveal that it is a Malignant Tumor called a Glioblastoma. The doctor will present Mary's case to the University Medical Centers board of Neurosurgeons on Tuesday October 24th. Mary will be going through both Chemotherapy and Radiation. The question right now is weather or not to go back in and remove more tissue and an edema around the original resection before these therapies. There is much ahead for Mary and we appreciate your continued prayers and support. Mary is strong and that is a big plus going forward. We serve a big God that knows us and cares about us more than we can comprehend. We will see God glorified through all of this.

Bob, Mary, Shannon and Danielle.

October 13, 2006

The visit to the doctor was postponed until Monday October 16th. He wanted some more time to evaluate the report and also to have other doctors review it before we came in. Keep praying.

October 5, 2006

Friends and Family took over the Surgery waiting room. Not only were most of the phone calls to the waiting room to check on Mary but the staff was surprised when Mary even received mail while in surgery. We can not even begin to express our appreciation for all the support. Surgery lasted about 2 ½ hours. Dr. Dixit came out and gave us a report as soon as surgery was over and came back out after Mary woke up in recovery. We were told before surgery that Mary would be in intensive care after surgery. God blessed again, Mary went directly to INCA and skip going to Intensive care. She was able to talk but very tired. She looked great. A few very short visits that day. Friday and Saturday she had a lot of visitors. Her recovery is going good and Mary came home Sunday afternoon. We are scheduled to see the Dr. on Friday (October 13th) to get the staples out and here the Pathology report.

September 30, 2006

While at a friends house Mary had another seizure. We were blessed to have an Emergency Room Nurse sitting next to Mary when this occurred. Mary was taken to the hospital in an ambulance. While in the ER at the hospital she had another seizure. Another CT and admitted back into the INCA (Intermediate Neurological Care Area) at Exempla Lutheran Hospital. The tumor had hemorrhaged. Always looking for the blessings we were told this made the tumor more defined and also moved up the surgery date. Now the surgery could be done without Mary being awake and was scheduled for Thursday October 5th. Mary came home October 2nd for a few days rest before surgery.

September 8, 2006:

While at a soccer game Mary had a seizure. While in the ambulance on the way to the hospital she had another one. She has never had one before and the last time she was in a hospital was almost 18 years ago when our youngest daughter was born. No other health issues since. After a few weeks of CT’s, MRI’s and other tests we have learned she has a Tumor on her brain. They call it a Glioma, more specifically an Astrocytoma. This is considered a low grade Tumor. The seizure was an early warning. The location of the tumor is the biggest concern. It is near what they call the “motor strip” The Neurosurgeon has given us our options and we are in the process of making a decision. We have been blessed with a lot of good friends and family around us. At the hospital while in the Neuro care the nurses kept bringing in the chairs from the nurses station because Mary had so many visitors. We just want to let everyone know what is going on and keep everyone updated. We have a lot of people asking what they can do, Prayer is the first thing we ask for. Besides that, there isn’t much anyone can do. Mary is going on about most of her normal activities. The only thing she is not allowed to do is drive for at least now. We appreciate any and all prayers.