hello everyone,
i introduced myself a number of months back, but didn't ever post much. i do lurk very frequently, though, and feel as though i know all of you from reading your posts.
now, however, i have a NEW reason to dedicate myself to this board. when i was growing up in springfield, illinois, i never had grandparents close by. what i WAS blessed to have, though, were adopted grandparents (grandma birdie and grandpa bob) who lived next door. they were (and continue to be) a constant support to my family, especially when my father had kidney transplant surgery in 1982.
i recently found out that my "grandfather" was diagnosed with lung cancer. he was diagnosed in late summer 2003, after a period of feeling "not right." i don't know what type or what stage, and i am trying to get that info without prying. i am assuming it is fairly late stage, as he is not a candidate for surgery. however, he is receiving chemotherapy. his wife, my grandma, said that the side effects are fairly severe. i saw him last week, though, and he is still mobile and able to eat a LOT! so i am assuming that these are all good signs.
they don't have a computer, but are talking about getting one. i plan to refer his wife to this site, as i know she will be able to get invaluable support and information. he's not much of a "talker," and never has been much for new-fangled technology , so i'm not sure he'd be up for it. but please know that i will pass you all along as a valuable resource.
i will update as i have more information. know that all survivors and caregivers are in my thoughts and prayers.
katie