DECEMBER 26, 2009 Last Posting

It's hard to understand that Mom died a week ago. The memories and emotions of that day are still fresh, as are the memories and emotions of the viewing, the funeral, the reception, and the burial. A bunch of us went to Christmas Eve Mass that same night, then Dad spent a quiet Christmas Day with family.

There is no way we can possibly thank EVERY ONE of you who have helped and supported Mom, Dad, and our family this past year, and this past week. Both in the hospital and at home, we've had visitors, food, card games, prayers, cards, gifts, flowers, and phone calls. We loved seeing many of you at the funeral which was an uplifting celebration of a Christian life well-lived. Your sharings were touching, and we'll write down all that we can remember. Please know that we appreciate you more than you'll ever know, and we will pray for all of you. Truly, people will know we are Christians by the way you have loved us.

Blessings,
Anna and family

DECEMBER 21 UPDATE

Viewing will be at Mountain View Cemetery on Wednesday, December 23, from noon to nine. Feel free to visit at your convenience.

The funeral mass for Mom will be at Holy Disciples Catholic Church on Thursday, December 24, at 10:00. Address: 10425 - 187th St. East, Puyallup 98374.

The reception, immediately following the funeral, will be at Frontier Pavilion at the Pierce County Fairgrounds. Address: 21718 Meridian Ave. East; Graham 98338. The fairgrounds are about 1 1/2 miles south of the church on Meridian, so quick and easy to get to.

We are so thankful for your visits, phone calls, food, and gifts. We are surrounded by SO MUCH LOVE!

Mom's last day: Dec. 19, 2009

Mom died this afternoon about 4:15 surrounded by many family members. She has had many visitors saying their goodbyes since Wednesday, and especially today. We've prayed that she would be released from her pain, yet this day is so sad for us. I just can't imagine not having such strong family and friends for support. We know that Christmas angels escorted mom to see the special people in her life: Grandma and Grandpa Solomon, her best friend Neola, baby grandson Jeremy, and other friends who were already waiting to welcome her. And we know that Jesus welcomed Mom with open arms and a loving smile; her faith in God inspires us all. Dad is handling this pretty well. He's very tired, of course, and very sad. Seeing him say good-bye to Mom for the last time was heart-wrenching. He says Mom was and is an angel. We know you are all grieving AND celebrating with us.

DECEMBER 17, 2009 UPDATE

Mom is slowly slipping away. Though she opens her eyes occasionally, we can't tell if she recognizes or understands us. We treat her as though she understands. She is on a morphine drip, with occasional boosts as needed. The staff is compassionate beyond belief. They are tender with mom, and supportive of us. Tonight the kitchen delivered a "comfort tray:" coffee, tea, and cookies. Dad is doing reasonably well, and not just because someone brought in a Starbucks coffee cup with whiskey!! He is sad and sometimes tearful, but he, like all of us, wants Mom to be finished with her suffering, now a year and a half of pain. Your support has been tremendous. We know that you are sad with us, and we know we can ask for help from many of you. Angels, angels, angels . . . . . . .

DECEMBER 16, 2009 UPDATE

Mom is still at Good Sam, sleeping all the time. The doctor decreased her pain meds significantly to see if she would wake up at all. Once she showed signs of experiencing pain, the nurse gave her half a dose to make sure she wasn't drugged too much. Several times Mom seems to begin waking up a little, but doesn't respond to our talking. We continue to talk to her anyway. Becky even painted Mom's nails a sparkly pale pink. We laugh over funny things, cry when we feel like it, hurt when we see that Mom hurts or when Dad is extra sad. The staff has been great. Tis the season of angels.........

DECEMBER 15, 2009

Mom is still at Good Sam, and deteriorating day by day. Tests show that more tumors have invaded bones, cracking multiple ribs. She now has a patch to administer pain meds continuously, as well as pain meds in pill form as needed. She has been sleeping all day, and has eaten very little. She has fluid around the lungs, making her breathing laborious. Dr. Blau said the disease has progressed too far (and rather quickly as of late) for much medical treatment, other than keeping mom as comfortable as possible. Tomorrow we will begin making arrangements for hospice to come to the house as soon as mom goes home. The fluid around her lungs has to be taken care of before she can go home, but her blood is too thin to attempt something yet (I wasn't in on that conversation, so am not sure if that info is correct).
My beloved choir came up to the hospital and sang Christmas carols. We had shut the door so we didn't disturb others, but the nurse asked if we would open the door for other patients to enjoy the music. That time and singing and companionship was very precious.
Thank you for your continued prayer and support. I will attempt to update this blog daily.

DECEMBER 14 UPDATE

Mom decided to return to the luxury hotel at the bottom of the hill. You know how much she loves that place. She did want to try a different room, so she's in Room 403 which has a great view of the entry, so we see everyone coming and going, and we see construction on the new patient tower.

Mom has been increasingly tired. Becky and I took her to the doctor Monday afternoon, and then over to the hospital. Staff immediately hooked her up to IVs with an antibiotic. She was so tired she could barely stand up, but Becky and I work out at the gym, so it was no problem.

We still don't know much. Don't know the results of the x-ray or the CAT scan. We DO know the the blood work is acceptable. She's a bit anemic, her blood is a bit thin so no coumadin for a day or two, and her protein level is really low, meaning she is somewhat malnourished. The dietician said mom can have whatever she wants, so she's arranged to have pudding or ice cream delivered to mom for a mid-morning and mid-afternoon snack.

Please don't visit if you are sneezing or coughing, because the staff WILL send you home. They also recommend that kids under 12 years of age not visit the hospital because of H1N1.

Mom slept most of the day. She even fell asleep during her physical therapy session. She had a long, mostly uninterrupted nap this afternoon, and actually sat up and talked a bit by 4:30.

Hopefully Mom will perk up a bit more tomorrow. I'll keep you posted.

Sweet Story

Following is a story that a special 11-year-old friend of the family wrote about mom at school. The assignment was to describe someone who reminds you of the Virgin Mary. Here is the story.
Thanks Emily, we love it.

Someone who acts like the Virgin Mary is my friend Mrs. Becker. She is a mother like Mary. She taught Bible classes teaching others about Jesus like Mary did. Mrs. Becker volunteered to help poor people by making blankets and working at the food bank. She treats everyone with LOVE.

NOVEMBER 30 UPDATE

Thanksgiving here finds us all grateful to celebrate this holiday with mom. A year ago we certainly didn't think she would still be with us. I don't think we'll ever be able to adequately express our sincere and expansive thanks to all of you for your continuing support during Mom's illness. Just continue to know that we care for you, we thank you, and we hold you in our prayers.

Mom finished another round of chemo, and is still pretty tired. We hope the doctor will allow her to wait until after Christmas for the next, and we think, final round of this treatment. Mom wants to be perky for the holidays! Who can blame her.

Mom and Dad had lots of company over Thanksgiving weekend. We also had a baby shower for Kim (Denton) Opper, so there were LOTS of us gals to fill the living room with laughter. The boys went to "Warthogs" for lunch, then to Cabella's to get away from the female crowd. I'm glad I was with the girls. Somehow, Warthogs and Cabella's doesn't hold any interest for me!

Keep warm as winter cold begins to creep into our bones and houses. Keep your Christmas celebration simple, so you can focus on the spiritual meaning.

Blessings to you all.

NOVEMBER 6 UPDATE

Mom's had some ups and downs with her energy level lately, but right now she is feeling pretty good. She invited me to dinner tonight, and cooked most of it until she was just too tired to stand. She made an old family favorite: salmon crepes. Yum.

She continues to take four days of pill-form chemo every 30 days. She gets very tired and nauseated for awhile, but it gradually passes. Then by the time she feels really good, it's time for another round. She continues to get new myeloma lesions on her skin, but very few, so the chemo is suppressing the spread of the disease.

Mom has been attending church regularly, watches Dad bowl once a week, and keeps up with several doctors appointments per week. I'd guess she averages 2 a week. Sometimes that means lunch out as well, so not so bad.

She has had both the flu and H1N1 vaccines at the oncologists' office where all patients receive the shots. Just FYI: IF you receive the nasal version, please do not see mom for two weeks until she has built up her immunity.

Keep yourselves well. We continue to thank you for all those little things that mean a lot.

October 11, 2009 UPDATE

Pump that woman full of new blood, and what do you get? A new woman with renewed energy. So much, in fact, that she and dad, along with good friends, Annette and Bob, are leaving Tuesday through Thursday for a stay at another McMenamin's Hotel in Oregon. The foursome is working on meeting their goal of staying at all of the hotels in this chain. You'll have to have them explain their enthusiasm - it's infectious.
We do want you all to know that Mom and Dad will be gone because when they were gone for a few days last weekend, people panicked when they couldn't get hold of Mom and Dad. So if they don't answer the phone or return phone calls this week, now you know that they are out having a good time.
Other than having to have another blood transfusion due to anemia, Mom is doing pretty well. She will start another round of chemo when she returns this Thursday. This current type is gradually slowing the spread of the cancer. Doctor Blau is pleased that the myeloma on Mom's skin is so much improved. The area near Mom's right eye, where the tumor was removed, looks great - just a small scar.
Theresa & Tony, their three kids and five grandkids were here this weekend; what a treat. We had a wonderful campfire this evening: hot dogs, clam patties, baked beans, broccoli salad, watermelon, cherry pie, and S'MORES! The evening was clear, windless, cold on our backsides, and hot on our fronts!
Holding all of you in our thoughts and prayers!

Sept. 28 Update

Life is pretty good. Indian Summer has charmed us, the ethereal Mount Rainier has left left us in awe, and the good ole Puyallup Fair entertained both workers and fair goers. Dad collected tickets at Gate #6 of the grandstand, and Brian shuffled Cow Chip Cookie supplies all 'round the grounds. (I think they are both a wee bit tired.) Mom and Dad (and Brian and I, of course) had a great time at Aimee and John's wedding, an intimate and elegant evening with a few friends, lots of GREAT food, and a photobooth (BIG HIT!).
Lots of family and friends stopped by to celebrate Mom and Dad's 80th and 85th birthdays throughout the weeks, making for a long and joyful celebration. It was kindof "birthday month" for them.
We all continue to enjoy weather and beauty of the northwest, and are thankful that Mom is feeling so well. She is still tired after the last round of chemo, but feels well and cheerful. She loves and appreciates all the attention you give her. Thank you to all of you angels.

September 2 UPDATE

I know you all understand that no news is good news. We've all been busy with summer activities. The removal of Mom's tumor was very successful. Her eye didn't swell, didn't turn blue, and just really looks wonderful. We're so grateful! Mom is feeling quite good and cheerful, and has successfully and painlessly finished round two of the third type of chemo. She's looking forward to attending Aimee and John's wedding next week, then her 80th birthday on Sept 19, and Dad's 85th b-day on Sept. 21. Dad has rejoined his bowling league and will be working at the Puyallup Fair again. He truly enjoys both activities.

AUGUST 11 UPDATE

Today Dad and I took Mom in to get the tumor by her eye removed. Dr. Vaughn is a delightful surgeon, and acted like he does this every day (oh, he probably does). The lovely, cheerful, and compassionate Nurse Charissa Medley (from our choir) assisted with the procedure. The doctor deadened around the tumor, cut it out, sewed inside and outside stitches. Charissa cleaned Mom's face and hair since the tumor cracked and bled during the night. The bleeding wasn't excessive in spite of her daily aspirin dose and the coumadin. Mom will take pain meds, ice the wound today and tomorrow, and then I (OR DO WE HAVE A VOLUNTEER??????????) will wash the wound daily, apply ointment, and cover it back up. Mom knew that I wasn't watching the procedure because she heard me turning the pages of a magazine. (Great article about Julie/Julia! Movie was good, too). Dad kept his eye on the procedure and looked at the removed tumor. NOT ME! That's why I teach. Mom was heading off to bed early tonight, but has otherwise been feeling pretty good. Tomorrow she starts round two of the current chemo treatment, which consists of four days of pills - so not too bad.
Mom and Dad spent a couple days at Lake Quinault this week, with Rose and Jim joining them during the day. They enjoyed the lodge, the food, the beautiful lake and rain forest, and an Indian storyteller and weaver. We're ALL enjoying the cooler weather! It's pretty pathetic when Uncle Phil says Sacramento was cooler than Washington.
Enjoy your week.

AUGUST 1 UPDATE

Thank goodness for air-conditioning! Has helped mom continue to feel pretty well in spite of the heat. Now, the real sight to see is dad in shorts: a very rare occasion!

Mom saw Dr. Blau yesterday. Everything is looking pretty good. She's sending mom to her dermatologist to see if he can drain the tumor by mom's eye. Blood work is good; no new tumors recently, so maybe the newest chemo is having a positive effect. Mom will receive her normal infusion of Zometa to strengthen bones, and she will get a shot of neulasta. That was Becky's favorite shot when she had chemo; makes your bones ache for a couple days. That's supposed to be a sign that the shot is working.

The pharmacist has mom's blood viscosity back within in normal range (between 2 and 3 - it was 10 two weeks ago!). An interesting visit yesterday. I asked if he would tell us about two photos on his shelf. They are pictures of his ordination to priesthood in the Russian Orthodox church! Mom pointed out a couple icons he has in his office, and said she has always wanted an icon. Before we left, Jeffery gave mom an icon! It has, of course, Mary and the infant Jesus, the burning bush, and many other symbols. The moment was very touching.

Keep cool! Please know that Mom and Dad enjoy your visits, your food, the cards, and phone calls. Blessings to you all.

The next round of chemo pills begins August 11 for four days. As usual, visitors need to be well, and please use the hand sanitizer before visiting, as the chemo pretty much eliminates any protective cells in her immune system. When you stop by, be sure to see the quilt granddaughter Angela made for mom; it's incredibly beautiful.

Mom and Dad are staying at Quinault Lodge this Wednesday and Thursday night. Should be a peaceful and beautiful visit there. Plus, their food is scrumptious.

JULY 20 UPDATE

Mom just got home late this afternoon. Although she is tired (what else can you be when you've been in a hospital?), she is feeling very well. She has to have her blood monitored every other day while she is on the antibiotic for the uti. She'll also see Dr. Blau this Friday for a little check-in, and a urologist next week. Thanks for your support!!!

JULY 18, 2009 UPDATE

Mom is resting comfortably at Good Sam, catching up on sleep, and feeling very well. She gave us quite a scare. She had taken chemo (melphelan, a type of thalidomide) & prednisone last Sat. through Tuesday, with few side effects. Then she started feeling extremely tired, had stomach pains,and her blood was WAY too thin. By Friday morning, she was so sick we took her to the emergency room where she was given Vitamin K, frozen plasma, & antibiotics. Her blood was seriously thin until today; not sure if this was caused by the chemo/prednisone routine, or the uti. This morning she sat up for breakfast and feels like a new woman. Her sleepiness is due to being poked and prodded all night and much of today. She has been x-rayed for possible pneumonia, but no results yet. She received blood transfusions early this morning, and again tonight, I think. Granddaughter Angela Becker had just finished the quilt of family photos that she has been working on. It is absolutely gorgeous, and made the hospitalization more cheerful - good timing, Angela. Mom will be in the hospital a few more days. I'll keep you posted!

JULY 8 UPDATE FROM METHOW VALLEY

This report comes to you LIVE from the grand town of Twisp, Washington; population 1,000 plus 6 lively young sisters! Our visit here is the twelfth time the six of us have girls (Annie, Theresa, Rose, Becky, Julie, Barb) have spent four days together each summer. We have to pick a DIFFERENT town each time because we create such lasting memories for the residents, especially the proprietors of the B & Bs we visit.

Mom's spirits are pretty good. The myeloma is attacking her skin, so she looks like a kid with chicken pox. She will be trying a round of chemo, pills four days in a row, then the rest of the month off. Unfortunately, she has to take prednisone along with that, and it has some uncomfortable effects on her. She is strong enough to walk pretty far with her walker, and has been attending Sunday mass pretty regularly. Becky and I decided to take Mom to the Tacoma Farmers' Market. The day was clear and hot, the fruits were luscious, the variety and colors of flowers were gorgeous, and the variety of ethnic foods was delightful. To get Mom to the market, Becky and I packed her into the wheelchair, turned the corner of the block, and realized that we were at the TOP of a hill in downtown Tacoma. If you've been in Tacoma, you will know that the hills are STEEP. We were just happy to find a parking spot, and didn't consider the hill. Too bad Candid Camera wasn't filming. Becky was wearing flip flops with heels; I was wearing sandals with no traction, and we were heading DOWN HILL!!!. We both had to hold on to the wheelchair to keep it from rolling down too quickly. Whenever the chair gained too much momentum, we turned it into the building to stop it. We would then start up again until the chair had too much momentum. People laughed at us; Mom was holding on for dear life; no one offered to help. We made it, having learned a valuable lesson. Needless to say, I drove the car DOWN the hill to pick her up after we had toured the market.

Please know that Mom LOVES your visits, phone calls, cards, flowers, and prayers. Please know that the family appreciates and values your support.

JUNE 18 UPDATE

Life has been going along pretty well for Mom for a couple months now, with a bump here and there. In the past few weeks she has been breaking out in lumps or bumps or whatever you want to call them, on her head, neck, shoulders, front, and back. A biopsy confirmed that they are the myeloma returning rather rapidly. Initally Mom was in no pain, but now they itch and are painful. Her abdomen is hurting again. Could be the malignant tumor growing again, or her stomach from all the meds!

The first round of chemo made mom seriously ill, and took her six weeks to recuperate. Then she tried a pill form for 21 days, during which she became more and more fatigued, and slept on and off all day.

The doctor has a third type of chemo she can try, not as strong as either of the first two. Mom's dilemma is to choose whether or not to try it. It would be one pill a day for four days, BUT she would also have to take prednisone - which sends her blood sugar on a roller coaster ride.

SO... we ask you to pray for discernment for her. She's tired of being sick, of being tested, of zillions of doctors appointments. At the same time, this pill would be for only four days, and might ease up her symptoms. A tough decision. We thank you soooo very much for your continued support.

JUNE 6, 2009 UPDATE

I didn't realize it had been so long since I gave you an update. Mom has had a really good run here. She's gone to the ocean, out to dinner, sat in the sun, went out to breakfast with her bible study group, and has even made it to church twice. Since going off the second type of chemo, she is stronger and more alert, and MUCH happier. She even giggles occasionally! She's been reading, knitting, and even got out her latest quilt!

She had a little bout with shingles, but they are now just about cleared up. This week she has developed lesions on her upper back and chest and head. The infectious disease doctor has sent her for biopsies next Tuesday with a dermatologist. They are either the myeloma now moving to the skin, OR a symptom of tb. The doctor asked if she had ever been exposed to tb, and most of you know that Dad had tb when Donnie and I were wee ones.

We're enjoying the sun, the blossoming flowers, and gorgeous views of Mt. Rainier.
I promise to keep this blog up better.

I am feeling so much better; still weak and still sleep a lot. I'm going to start exercising and get to walking again. I do feel so much better when I’m off the chemo.
Thank you every body for your prayers.

From Shirley: APRIL 26

APRIL 19 UPDATE

Cousin Carla said I needed to update the blog, so here is: Nothing is new since Mom got home from the hospital. She's had a visiting nurse every day for the past two weeks, but that will begin to become less frequent as mom is stable. She also gets pt several times a week. Some days she is pretty weak and tired, and other days she is more alert. She came to our house for Easter dinner for a couple hours: was great for her to spend time with us, including Aimee and Christy, their guys, and Mak n Jack. She's just finished her first round of the chemo pill, with no side effects. Sees her doctor this week for a check-up. Her new prism glasses help her to read and knit a little, which is a great joy to her. She's back to watching Survivor again, her favorite show. She also enjoys Dancing with the Stars when she has had an afternoon nap. Your visits, phone calls, and cards mean the world to Mom, Dad, and all of us kids. Thank you so much.

APRIL 4, 2009

We've had snow TWICE in the past week, but today is SUNNY, just in time for the Daffodil Parade. Mom is home, always the best place to be. Her infections are pretty much gone, although she uses a nebulizer throughout the day to control wheezing. She has a visiting nurse daily for a week or so, plus a pt/ot several days a week. Mom has been on the chemo pills for almost a week, and no reactions so far. The biggest challenge is getting her to walk a bit around the house. Standing up is hard for her, as well as being a tiring task. Visitors: feel free to encourage her to "take a trip around the park" as she calls her route around the house. Please know that your continual support through this long time is beneficial, appreciated, and supportive. Blessings to all of you!

MARCH 27 UPDATE

Well, Mom has been in the hospital a week now, but we hope she comes home Sunday or Monday. Her infections are under control. The staff is keeping an eye on a pulmonary embolism. She has developed two large masses in her abdomen; results show more multiple myeloma. She will now begin oral chemo - getting that prescription from Florida is a story unto itself. The side effects are multiple and serious. Most important for visitors is that you not have any inkling of an illness. When you visit, use the sanitizer in the hospital or near the front door of their house. Three of us local kids are out of town this week, so extra visitors/caretakers in the afternoon and/or early evening are welcomed! Dad likes company, too! My sibs and I can't say enough about how good it was to have Uncle Phil here for two weeks. He really helped dad. But now, Sammie keeps going to the guest bedroom looking for Phil! We're planning a yardwork party soon. Any takers?

MARCH 22 UPDATE

As many of you know, Mom went back into the hospital on Friday with 3 infections: left lung, sinuses, and bladder. She's pretty wiped out, but does perk up for periods of time when visitors come. I'm guessing she'll come home Tuesday at the earliest. Mom didn't recognize any of us on Friday night and didn't speak at all. Then Sat. a.m. she sat up and chatted. Her life is a yo-yo right now. Dad hopes she comes home soon, not just because he wants her home, but because Sammie is naughty again when mom is gone. Maybe we'll take Sammie in to the hospital tomorrow for a short visit. The oncology nurses encourage that. As always, we thank you for your tremendous support. We know that we can pick up the phone and call on many different folks to help up out; that is a comfort for us.

ST PATRICK'S DAY

At this very moment, I'm sure Mom is sitting in a chair at Rose and Jim's inn, gazing at the beautiful Gray's Harbor beach. She was discharged from the hospital yesterday, feeling pretty good and building up leg strength again. Rose and Jim drove up and whisked away Mom, Dad, and Uncle Phil, and will return them Wed. evening. The chemo-pill will begin the end of this week; I think the doctor said 20 some days on, and 10 days off. Poor Uncle Phil. He hates cold, snow, and rain. Guess what we've had LOTS of? And to make it, actually, funnier, we grandkids and great grandkids filtered in and out of Mom and Dad's house, visiting with Uncle Phil IN THE DARK!!! A tree hit a local power line, leaving us without lights and heat from 2:00 Sunday until 9 in the evening. Do you know what the kitchen, living, and dining room looked like after we all clanked around in the dark, eating, snacking, drinking, grandkids playing hide and seek? HORRIFYING! The greatgrandkids chalked a welcome home sign on the side walk, now long gone. [fyi: check out CollinsInn.com]

March 12, 2009

Mom is back in the hospital Room 406. She has been extremely lethargic and sleepy since the blood infusion. She is on antibiotics for another infection. Next week she will begin a chemo in pill form; she'll take 5 days, then off for a week. Also, her tailbone is cracked, so she's in quite a bit of pain with that unless taking pain pills. Uncle Phil has arrived, so we are enjoying his presence.

MARCH 5, 2009 UPDATE

Mom is working on strengthening her legs so she can hoist herself up better, and walk for longer periods of time. She has had a physical therapist working with her. We found out why Mom is so tired: she's quite anemic, so will have a blood transfusion next Monday. Mom's eyes are actually improving. Her doctor said the cataracts have decreased, or whatever it is they do, so she doesn't need surgery. He is fitting her right glasses lens with a silicon prism overlay to clear up the double vision. She's already talking about quilting. We're all looking forward to Uncle Phil (Dad's brother) coming here from Sacramento. I might be telling secrets if I say that his one request is to uphold family tradition: the men go to Hooter's for a "meal."

FROM THE CHAIR OF SHIRLEY Feb. 16

It is so, so good to be home. I still get tired walking, but I do quite well. Don and I play the card game, 3-13. Come join us anytime. I really appreciate your cards, visits, and telephone calls. Please don't worry about waking me up. I'm able to go back to sleep easily. I really like hearing from everybody.

Feb. 11 UPDATE

Mom is happy to be home this evening. She's pretty tired after a long day and was asleep by 8:00. Dr. Blau has suspended chemo for another 3 weeks because mom is too weak and sick. At that time mom and Dr. Blau will decide what the next step will be. The doctor has two different chemo meds she can try. Here's to Mom and Dad's 62nd wedding anniversary this weekend. Congratulations to them!

FEBRUARY 10

GOOD NEWS!!! If all goes well, Mom will go home Wed. at the earliest, and Thursday at the latest. She is READY to go home. The ot/pt have tested her strength, and deemed her able to go home. We'll have to rent a U-Haul for the cards, flowers, bird feeders outside the window, and the recliner John rented for Dad. As always, thank you so much for your support.

FEB 6 UPDATE

Whoever thought you would see Shirley Becker racing Dad down the hall with her walker? She is making wonderful progress with her physical/occupational therapy at Rainier Vista. She sits up a majority of the time, yesterday spent two separate one hour sessions in pt, and walks increasingly long distances down the hallways with her walker. She won so much at BINGO that they are looking forward to getting her out of there. She and dad have watched a movie, Groundhog's Day on Feb. 2, tried Bible study, worked on puzzles, eaten in a variety of dining rooms, and have entertained many delightful guests: YOU ALL. Today she will tell the physical therapists to work her time around the Valentine craft session - just kidding. We're still looking forward to Mom's goal of leaving boot camp by Feb. 14, she and Dad's 62nd anniversary.

TELEPHONE NUMBER

Please note that Mom's direct line is changed to 770-5057.

JAN. 29: BOOT CAMP

The hospital was getting tired of Dad's giving the cute nurses a bad time, so we had to move Mom out of Good Sam. She is at a Rehab-nursing facility with a good reputation, handmade quilts on the wall (I thought that was a sign), 3 fish tanks (for the fish-lover, Dad), and pictures of Pappilon dogs (Theresa and Julie have these for pets so Becky thought that was a sign). Dad and John moved her in this afternoon, and Becky and Sammy (already a hit) brought up personal belongings.

She will receive pt/ot 5-6 days per week; lots of hallways for her to use her walker to build up leg strength (and visit other folks). Mom's goal is to be strong enough to be home for their 62nd anniversary on Valentine's Day. She needs to be able to stand on her own, and walk significantly well with her walker.

Visitors are WELCOME. A meal is $4.00 if you wish to join her (you may also bring your own food). Locals, if you wish to share in transportation for dad, or if you would like to take HIM for an outing, just let us know. Becky and John mostly take care of that.

Here is pertinent info:
Rainier Vista Car Center
920 12th Ave. S.E.
Puyallup, WA 98372
facility telephone: 253-841-3422
Mom is in room #322-B
Her direct telephone number: 253-770-5057

As always, your support keeps us putting one foot in front of the other. This is new territory for us, so we've felt a bit lost. Thank you for your thoughts, prayers, visits, cards, meals that show up magically, and phone calls.

JAN. 26 UPDATE

BLESSINGS abound: another 5 star winter day in the Pacific Northwest: blue skies, majestic Mount Rainier draped in layers of snow; Rachel's wedding was beautiful, elegant, fun, and yummy (get me that artichoke chicken recipe!); niece Sara and husband Dusty welcomed their wee one late Sunday afternoon: 8 pound Collin Andrew. New beginnings, new life, and a fresh chance every day to savor God's presence.

Mom is still in the hospital (room 437), feeling tired, but MUCH better. She is on a round of antibiotics for an infection. The doctor thinks the overall ill feeling is due to radiation. Today mom finished her second round of 10 radiation treatments and received a "Completion Certificate" and a sweet pink mug. We appreciate ALL who call, send cards, visit, and pray. In particular we thank the Williams, Tillmans, and Edwards for praying with Mom and family on Saturday afternoon, then staying with her while we all went off to the wedding.

Chemo is discontinued for two more weeks to give mom time to build up strength. She's still not standing much, but is beginning to sit up for short periods of time. Both PT and OT are beginning a daily regime with her: bring on those weights and the large elastic bands! Wrap 'em around the bed railing: up -2 -3. Rope in a nurse - oops: that's Dad's usual shenanigan.

JAN. 22 UPDATE

Mom is back in the hospital this evening, extremely fatigued, and just plain feeling rotten. She's already had a couple tests, but results take 24 hours or more. I'll update when we find out more information.

JAN 20 UPDATE

Well, who would consider living elsewhere when the snow-draped Mount Rainier silhouettes a blue sky? Not I! Today is the third absolutely gorgeous day - a bit cold, lotsa frost, but stunningly beautiful. The weekend was kinda tough as Mom has been pretty weak. So, once again, the doctor is changing meds: actually, cutting down the pain meds to see if she can get by on less. Hopefully that will make her more alert, increase her mobility, and make her well enough to attend the big event of the weekend: Rachel's wedding. Kim and Mark will be staying here at Mom and Dad's, so that will bring some brightness into the house. I'm sure Mom gets tired of seeing our faces everyday: "Drink more water. Now eat this. It's time for more meds. Raise those legs like the therapist taught you." We don't sound very imaginative, do we? Anyway, here's hoping Mom will be back on her feet, literally, very soon.

JAN. 15 UPDATE

Between radiation decreasing the pain, and the doctors' abilities to adjust and readjust the pain meds, Mom has come home late this afternoon. She's pretty tired, has a new list of meds, but is happy to be at home. She is continuing with the chemo, minus the big gun that is such a problem for her (and it interferes with radiation), and with daily radiation. So that means that Sam is relegated to her own bed, so sad. Do come for visits, bringing humor and cheer. It's been a long day for us all, so good night to all our friends and family; your prayers and support are invaluable.

JAN. 12

Mom is feeling better today: eating a little, looks better, has less pain. She went in for her radiation tatoos (too bad she couldn't choose a design!), her special pillow, and her first of about 25 radiation treatments. The tumor is in her left pelvis near the hip bone. She received chemo last night, and will continue that regime but without the nasty stuff. Still waiting for the sun to appear this week. The meteorologist promised!

JAN. 11

The mri showed a tumor in mom's bones, tailbonish area. She will begin radiation tomorrow. The oncologist, the awesome Dr. Blau, will consult with the radiologist tomorrow to determine any changes in the chemo treatment plan, possibly trying a different "recipe." The pain meds seem to be pretty balanced today. Mom is in much less pain, not too drugged up, but still pretty tired. Her prayer shawl has disappeared, but we hope it will turn up in the hospital laundry; it's pretty disappointing to lose that precious item. The next question: is dad sleeping okay because Sammie is in bed with him? (mom would NEVER allow that when she's in bed!). We do pass on your messages of love and support when we go to the hospital. She will most likely be there most of this week, so feel free to visit. Visits are cheering for both Mom and Dad. Also feel free to make Dad take a walk; he's putting on weight!!! Don't tell him I said that. May the sunny skies predicted for this week also warm the spirits of all of us who love Mom.

JAN. 10 UPDATE

Mom is still in the hospital, Room 402. We are awaiting results from the xray and the mri, hopefully on Monday when the doctors are back. Thankfully, Dr. Blau is the on-call doctor this weekend, and has been in phone contact with the head nurse, trying to get a dosage of pain medication somewhere between totally sleeping and reasonable pain relief. Mom is not very responsive to company right now, but dad always needs cheering up (and he loves the Starbuck's cinnamon dolce, fat-free milk and sugar free flavoring). He's also getting tired of the cafeteria's food, (same ol', same ol'), so, hint-hint, taking him OUT of the hospital for lunch or dinner is good for him. So far, Sammie is behaving, although she hid from Brian this afternoon ( bad breath? he doesn't bring enough treats??). We'll keep you all posted. Please continue your prayers and support; they help us immensely.
anna

JAN. 8 UPDATE

Mom is back in the hospital tonight. She began having pain in her pelvis throughout the night. We took her to the doctor's office where she was immediately given morphine - thank the heavens for that good stuff. She had an xray this evening and will have an MRI tomorrow to determine the source of the pain. Mom and Dad are thankful that my school was canceled for today due to flooding in the district, which meant I was available to handle today's episode. AND Becky, Dad, and I got to go the the special needs nursery or whatever that is called, and saw Miss Rain Grace, Jaimie's newborn. Hopefully Brian (the third: my Brian is Brian the first, Rachel's Brian is Brian the second, and Jaimie's Brian is Brian the third) will take her home tomorrow. Baby is absolutely gorgeous, just like a tight, perfectly formed rosebud.
Blessings to all

BACKGROUND

Our talented and generous niece, Melissa Becker, designed this beautiful blog to keep you informed of mom's progress. I, the un-techie Anna, will add posts about once a week. You can find more information about Multiple Myeloma on the websites listed at the right.

Briefly, MM is cancer of the blood which creates tumors in the bone - hence Mom's severe back pain before her radiation. Doctors say there is no connection between the MM and the brain tumor Mom had in summer/fall, and which has shrunk (or totally dissolved?) after the Gamma Knife (an intense, 45 minute radiation treatment pinpointed to the tumor.

Treatment consists of radiation and chemotherapy. Both the ten radiation treatments and the first chemo cycle were started while Mom was still in the hospital. One chemo cycle consists of three weeks: She receives chemo on days 1, 4, 8, and ll, followed by a week of no treatments. In addition, Mom takes one zillion pills, plus gallons of water, every day. The visiting nurses and physical therapists have been helpful. We are trying to get Mom AND Dad onto the Wii Fit! Feel free to come over and challenge them to a game!!

We all appreciate your tremendous support: prayers, phone calls, flowers, food, taxi service, and best of all, VISITS. Since Mom can't read or do crafts, she gets pretty tired of listening to books on tape and watching movies. They are home evenings and weekends. If you come during the day, you may want to call ahead first since doctor appointments and chemo times vary.

We, the sibs, had a pizza party at Mom and Dad's house while Mom was still in the hospital. We assembled and decorated the Christmas tree with the help of grandkids and a variety of beverages. The most prized family possession - the Christmas star - was just about stolen by any number of kids, but Sammie (Mom and Dad's new dog) protected the star for Mom. When Mom finally came home from the hospital, about 6 in the evening, she walked into a dark house lighted only by the Christmas tree, providing a warm welcome for her.

The dog: yes, Mom has a long tradition of disliking pets, especially in the house. Sammie is unique. Rose and Jim opened their Ocean Shores Inn (Collins Inn) and needed to find a new home for the lovable but yappy Sammie. We encouraged Dad to give it a try since he loves dogs. Well, guess who took a liking to Mom? While Mom was in the hospital, Sammie peed and pooped in the house, and wouldn't go into the dining room! Once her mistress came home, Sammie suddenly retrained her incontinent habits, once again joined her owners in the dining room, and resumed sleeping on Mom's lap when they are in the living room. An aside, when Mom was first in the hospital, Dad had trouble sleeping at night UNTIL (don't tell Mom), he allowed Sammie to sleep with him!

till next time - may the snow, beautiful may it be, blow away until next year - anna

New Site!

This site is going to be used for updates on Shirley. This will hopefully keep everyone up to date on how doctor appointments are going and how Shirley is feeling. :)