dchurchi

I actually spoke to someone in the lung department at the hospital my husband is being treated. I am 43 and have been exposed to 2nd hand smoke for 43 years. Both my parents smoked, My 1st husband smoked, I worked in a bar when it was still legal to smoke in a bar. My current husband smokes. Here is what they told me. anyone exposed to 2nd hand smoke for more than 25 years has a 40% increased chance of developing lung cancer. To give myself peace of mind I will be having a scan after the 1st of the year. I would rather know something now then later.

Many more prayers coming their way

Connie, You are one of the stongest people I have "met". Your strength and resolve has helped my better deal with Alan's cancer. My hugs and prayers to you and your DH. he sounds like one very very special man.

Nelson, sending you more prayers, please keep us posted

Spoiling my nieces makes me very happy (and my sister not so happy). I have no children of my own so it is all about Carley and Heather. I love the sounds of Christmas, the music, the laughter and the love. The smells of Christmas, fresh Trees, Holiday dinners ect. Most of all, being with my family.

Living in the L.A. area I had the opportunity to see Wayne Gretzky play a lot of hockey. I cried when I read about his mom. He left his coaching duties on Monday to be with her.. I pray she did not suffer. My heart goes out the their family.

Living in the L.A. area I had the opportunity to see Wayne Gretzky play a lot of hockey. I cried when I read about his mom. He left his coaching duties on Monday to be with her.. I pray she did not suffer. My heart goes out the their family.

Alan and I buy ornaments from every place we travel to. so most of our tree is our history together, in addition, ornaments that fit our personal likes. I have a hockey playing santa, lots of Irish ornaments and Alan has lots of lighthouses and sailboats. I have some ornaments from my childhood and a few store bought just to fill in the tree.

Me too Kasey, Larry was a regular on the board. Anyone heard from Larry??

To my new extended family, Alan and I would like to wish each and everyone of you a Happy Holiday season. Prayers will be going out to all who have suffered this year, that 2006 is in some way better for all of us. Many hugs to you all

Pat and Brian, As always you are in my thoughts and Prayers. Alan and I think of you both often. Love and hugs to both of you.

I would like to share Alan's story of WBR. When Alan's brain mets were discovered he was reduced to lying perfectly still 24/7. He could not walk, could barley speak, he was throwing up so much he did not eat for 3.5 weeks. Alan had a solitary tumor that was crushing his brain stem and had severe edema. Usually a patient would be given Decadron, however, Alan had some of the worst side effects know with this steriod an could not take it. We had 1 option WBR or death in about 2 weeks. Within a few days of having WBR Alan's recovery was remarkable. After his 10th treatment he was 100% better and then started 15 treatments to the tumor itself. Alan's recovery was so remarkable that we were able to go on a month long vacation. we traveled all over California and then over Labor day we went to New York City and had the trip of a lifetime. In early Nov we were able to travel to Florida and visit my parents. I am very happy to say that 5 months after WBR Alan is living as normal a life as can be expected with Small cell lung cancer that has spread to his brain. The Dr.'s had 1 primary goal, improve Alan's quality of life for as long as possible. They did!!! Now I can not say what will happen months down the road, but I will forever be greatful for this time I have had with my husband. I hope our story has shed some positive light on the WBR issue. As with chemo, (which almost killed Alan) every patient is different. Many prayers to anyone who is facing this difficult decsion, I hope our story helps someone.

Cindi, I missed you, but understand why you needed to be away. I am not the patient so I will never prentend to understand what you go through. I know as my husbands caregiver, I sometimes struggle staying in the moment. Enjoying the fact Alan woke up today. I at times look too far forward and the heartache is so great. It was good to hear from you and your family will always be here.

Beth, We will all be here when you are ready to come back Take time for yourself. Alan and I are praying for you and your family

We do not have a traditional meal. My Dad cooks a huge gourmet Christmas Eve dinner and he does not like to duplicate. So our menu changes every year. This year however, is prime rib YUMMY

Jim, So sorry about this news. praying this new treatment has good success. hugs coming your way.

Thinking of you my dear friend, Your love for your Dennis radiates from your words. I will keep you close in my prayers

Alan's smile when I walked in the door from work. His eyes just light up and no matter how bad my day might have been, seeing his smile makes me smile.

The Grinch Who Stole Christmas, because in the end it was not the presents that mattered, but love and family.

Little Drummer Boy

Karen, you keep on fighting and posting. you are just down the road from Alan and I so I feel a special kinship to another So. California Gal.

Beth, Love and prayers from Alan and I.

I am sorry to hear of your mom's passing. I pray for your family during these coming days and weeks. lean on us for support. Please accept my condolences.

Many prayers coming your way for your mom and for you. I know how hard it is waiting for those results. Please keep us posted.

Hi Brandi, welcome to the family. So sorry you need us, but glad you found us. As you have probably already witnessed this is a wonderful group of people. you will find caregivers/family members and many survivors ready to provide hugs, prayers or whatever else you may need. Please keep posting