fillise

Barb, you and Bill are in my prayers that you find the joy of Christmas in each other and in your children and their families. Even if it is not where you imagined or how you imagined you are together which is something to celebrate. I'm glad Bill is in a beautiful facility and you have help with the caregiving duties. I'm sending my love to you both, Susan

Christina, I am so sorry. You will be in my thoughts and prayers during the coming days, weeks and months. I am just so sorry. Susan

Barb--so now I have this picture of Bill fleeing down the halls and out the door with his "back flapping!" I am headed to NC in a little while and won't be on the board much this week so I just wanted to say "Merry Christmas" to you both. Susan

((((Michelle)))) I haven't been through this, but I don't think it is surprising that you are not feeling any better as the holidays are approaching. I would think it would intensify the grief you are feeling. It's only been two months and I think there is so much pressure to hurry up a finish grieving. You are just beginning this process, so I hope you will be a little easier on yourself because you still miss your husband and you are still grieving for him and adjusting to life without him. You've spent so much time taking care of your son and your husband, now it's time to take care of Michelle. She's worth it, you know. She's very much worth it. Susan

Barb, I'm so sorry to hear this news. It just doesn't get any easier does it? Hopefully Bill won't need to have the blood drained and he can come home soon. I wish I could be there to put my arms around you to let you know what both you and Bill are loved. Susan

((((Ann))))

((((Randy))))

Praying!

Hey Christie--you have some responses over on the general thread. Don't worry about where you post--we will find you! Susan

Christie, I'm sorry you have to be here, but glad you found us. I cannot imagine having to walk this path without the caring folks on this board. Keep up updated on your treatments and be sure to ask any questions you have. Someone here will likely have experience they can share. The good news is that stage 2 is considered curable so you will have a great chance at giving your hubby those 22 years! Susan

Mitchell, It is so wonderful to get your update. I'm thrilled that your mom and NED are still good friends and that you are doing so well. Talk about turning your life around. . . The only problem is that whole University of Tennessee thing. I'll just say WAR EAGLE and Merry Christmas! Susan

Great News!!!! You and NED have a fabulous Christmas and a very happy New Year!!!!!!!!!! Susan

It sounds like your mom has a powerful will to survive and is gaining strength each day. I'm happy she is making progress. Please keep us informed and tell her that there are a lot of people here rooting for her. Susan

Kim, I am so sorry. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers as you mourn the loss of your deal mom. ((Kim)) Susan

Hi Caren, It's always good to hear from you, but not so good to hear that you are struggling. This is a good place to struggle. We are here when you need us. Susan

((((Lillian))))

I am so sorry you have lost your brave, beautiful mother. I am so thankful that you were with her and she was surrounded by love as she made her transition from this life to the next. My heart is breaking for you today. Susan

Lyn, When cancer has spread beyond the organ of origin it is considered Stage IV and most all treatment is technically considered pallative. My mom has been on pallative treatments for almost three years. She was stage IV at diagnosis too. My mom's oncologist told her at the time that he didn't think he could cure her cancer, but he was pretty sure he could control it. And until lately, he has. This diagnosis is a hugh shock. Try to take it one day at a time. If you see your father improving--GOOD! He will need an advocate so make sure you ask any questions you need and we will help you as much as we can. Susan

Donna--you are AMAZING and a source of inspiration and hope. Thank you! Let's open the pub for a round of drinks to Donna! Susan

Barnara, My mom was just prescribed Tarceva on Tuesday afternoon. I will let you know anything we discover as she begins the treatment. You CAN beat this! Susan

Diane, My question would be similar to Katie's. Do you think they are making a distinction between an in-patient hospice facility and at-home hospice care? I thought insurance companies loved hospice because it kept people out of the hospital. I hope you find that it will be covered, just in case. You really don't need to be worrying about that. Susan

Barbara, Any oncologist should be able to prescribe Tarceve for you if he/she thinks it appropriate. You can read more about Tarceva at www.cancergrace.org. GRACE is a physician mediated site specializing in lung cancer. The physicians there are really terrific about answering questions (though they cannot give you specific medical advice). It is free and all you need to do to ask questions is to register. Tarceva works best under specific conditions so your oncologist should be able to help you determine if that is the best course of action. In the meantime, we are glad you have found us. You have beaten this before and responsiveness to earlier treatment is one of the most important signs you can beat it again! Susan

Geri, Thank you. For everything, thank you. Susan

Damn. I also beleived that Rich was indestructable. I can't imagine this board without him. He's always been such a comforting presence here. Rich was always the first to sympathize and to offer encouragement. Even when he took breaks his presence was still here. My love to his family. They will have my prayers during this difficult time. We love you Rich, and we will miss you. Susan

I'm so sorry you are going through this with your dad. I second the motion for a pet. I live alone and thought I was fine until I was adopted by a cat. I always thought I was a dog person until that cat wormed her way into my life. Now I couldn't dream of a home without a cat or dog. A cat is better suited to my lifestyle because I travel a good bit and keep somewhat irregular hours. I would never have said I wanted a cat, but now can't imagine my home without one. She makes me laugh every single day and is someone to talk to and when I get lonely she curls up on my lap and purrs and I don't feel onley anymore. Maybe that would help your dad deal with the pain of being alone. Otherwise I'm afraid he might get into another relationship simply to avoid being alone and that's not a very good reason. Susan