Mom has been completely fatigued and without energy since the whole brain radiation. Whether that is from the radiation or the cancer is hard to tell. Both the pulmonologist and the oncologist seem to think it is the cancer. We saw her pulmonologist (Dr. Williams) on Monday. Her lung infection, which the doctor referred to as post-obstructive pneumonia yesterday, seems to be responding to the antibiotic since her breathing capacity has improved a little bit in the last week. From last Monday’s CT Scan at Arlington Hospital Dr. Williams was also able to tell us that the tumor in her lung is larger which is obstructing her airway somewhat. There also appears to be some indication of microscopic growth between her air sacs and blood supply termed ‘lymphangitic’ which can also cause feelings of breathlessness. So, she is back on Decadron (steroid) for the next ten days to help her feel a little better. We will see Dr. Williams again in a couple of weeks.
At this morning’s appointment, Dr. Heyer took a look at last Thursday’s MRI of her thoracic and lumbar spine and recommends radiation on her lower back. We will meet with the radiation oncologist on Thursday morning to map out a plan. We both have questions and concerns both in her getting the radiation and in NOT getting the radiation. Mom will have to weigh the costs and benefits to her cancer progression and her quality of life yet again.
Additionally, the brain radiation seems to have affected her hearing so she needs her hearing aids more than before. Wouldn’t you know it but one of her hearing aids is not working properly. She has an appointment with the audiologist tomorrow afternoon. If somebody is available to take her there, please let her know. I have a scheduling conflict.
So… this is a frustrating and discouraging time with too much coming at her with little respite or improvement. Just go ahead and give her a hug.
Karen
Ann's Hummingbird
DEAR Karen,
thanks so much for taking YOUR energy and time to share with us.
HUGE ::hugs:: and love to Ann, you and all loving Ann…
Karen, you are as amazing as your mother. It is such an honor to travel this journey with you. You have my admiration and my prayers.
Hi Ann,
This is your former neighbor in Blue Ridge Summit, the woman who lived in the apartment upstairs from Pat. I have been following your blog since you told me about it. You have inspired me greatly. As a late stage cancer survivor, I can understand to some degree what you are now going through, and I marvel at your strength and character. I pray for you, that you may not have pain that is intolerable and that you find happiness and peace in some way, each and every day. I think you do :).
You have a great network of family, friends and acquaintances, and I am sure I can say for all of us that you have taught us all even more about the human spirit than we already knew.
Many blessings to you, Ann. And thank you Karen, for keeping us up to date.
Stefanie Hasandras
Dearest Ann,
Wish I was there to give you a hug much more often.
Sending much love and moments of peace and grace in the midst of all the tests, results, and challenges.
Carol
Sending hugs and praying for easier breathing. Best to you and your mom.
Dear Ann,
Sounds as though you are now facing more challenges with the breathing and your overall energy level. I am so sorry to learn that your journey is more uphill for now. You and your health care providers are looking at every angle to determine the best course of action. This cannot be easy for you or for Karen. I feel sure that God will guide you to make the best choices for you.
Go with God and know that we surround you with love and much prayer.
Love,
Maureen
I’ve not met you, Karen, but I’m sending a hug to her and to you, too. Thank you for this update even though I know it’s a hard time not only for your Mom, but for all of you.
our almost-four-year-old grand is with us this week. she’s still sleeping and i’m on the porch enjoying a quiet time with you, ann, before a busy day begins.
let the breath of the breeze refresh you.
let the song of an early bird inspire you.
let the ripples on the top of the lake remind you of other currents moving at other depths.
let the intake of breath oxygenate you.
let the outflow of breath make space for the next inhalation.
let the ever-presence of God and the love of your friends and family give you something to lean on
. . . now and in the days to come.
amen.
Dear Ann, Dear Karen,
I have been following along, cheering you on from afar. You have done so much in just the past few months (not even counting the rest of your life), been with loving people and shared spiritual moments. In the short time I’ve known you, when I used to visit my dad across the hall, I have found you to be an inspiring woman, the kind of woman I’d like to be – full of energy, kindness and enthusiasm for life. I send you much love and affection and best wished for all the familiy.
Thank you dear Karen for update and also thank you for the lovely note…how blessed we were to be with you and your mom. This part of the journey is challenging but as I remember, precious. Ann, your undauntting spirit and God,s love will carry you thru. PS, I got the oven clean
Big, big Hugs. May God hold you in the palm of his hand, in the center of her heart.
I am so sorry. It must be getting so discouraging. I will keep you in my prayers.
Love you, Betty Brown Young
Sending a big hug and much love.
Prayer hugs abound!!
My dear Ann,
I would love to be able to assist you right now. Painters are here as I am prepping home to sell.
I keep you in my prayers.
Much love, Susan
Dear Ann and Karen,
My heart overflows with prayers for your strength, peace and awareness of Presence as you navigate these difficult days. HUGS ABOUND! And LOVE SURROUNDS you.
Blessings!
Debbie
Sorry to hear that things r not going so well at this point. You’ve certainly been through the wringer for sometime and kept such a positive attitude, etc. The body depleting is the pits! Hope there’s some turn around soon and u will feel better, have more energy, and that things progress for the better. (((((Hugs)))) and prayers for sure… “May the good Lord bless and keep you…” xo, Jan
Never remember you asking for any hugs from me back in 1953 (only wanted from the boys in those days!), but here is a big electronic HUG from Ann across the pond.
I am so very very sorry Ann. Things just keep coming at you.I am sending a big hug to you and Karen. It was good to meet you, Karen. You are a gem.
Ann,
Even now after reading Karen’s newsletter of your ongoing challenges, I cannot stop my face from smiling and my heart from opening because that is what happens when I think of you. I love you. – ellen
Dear Ann and Karen
Thinking of you in prayer with much
love, Cathy
Dear Karen and Ann,
Sigh and Whew! And restricted space to “breathe”, literally and figuratively.
I’m sending hugs and prayers to both of you,
Kit