hello TeamTami,
It's midnight sat morning my last day here with Tami , It has been difficult seeing Tami struggle so much it breaks my heart but i am comforted knowing smoother days are ahead . Tami is nauseated right now , a direct result of eating to many ice chips we should not be giving them to her but feel so sorry for her , if she throws up we will regret ever giving them to her. My sister Barb finally made it in after getting bumped several times . Amy Stewart sacrificed her entire day running back and forth to the airport so I could spend some time with Tami, she is a pretty special young lady . We now have Barb, Kimmy, Maddie and myself here which is too much for Tami as she always feels like she needs to entertain, it is hard for her to lay still and rest I still think rest is the best thing for her right now I tend to compare her with Nathan Hardy is recovery was much faster but I still believe Tami's recovery is going well Love to all and goodnight tim
This blog was set up for our dear Tami who is fighting the life threatening disease - Cancer. Hopefully the blog will help you come along the journey with us and provide a way to encourage others to join us for her AFAF community fundraiser. For details, click on the marathon photo.
Saturday, June 30, 2012
Hi Team Tami ,
Sorry this took so long, the internet was down most of the day.
Tami has lost a few more accesories today. Central line is gone. (IV access placed in her neck) She is down to one Iv. Which is used for antibiotics and pain medications. Opiates are discontiued. One chest tube is gone. The remaining one is still draining fluids. Epidural is working so much better. Lasix is given once daily and we call it a pee party. Tami put out about two litters of fluids. Just picture 2 litters of soda.
Vital signs remain normal . Tami uses the oxygen when she sleeps . She seems more comfortable with it on. Her oxygen level (O2 sat ) runs at 99% on room air. Which is perfect.
Pain is more controled today. Now we are dealing with a new problem. Tami is a little delusional , anxious, and fidigity. Everyone is telling us it is from the narcotics, wearing off. She seems to get aggravated easily.
She is sitting in the chair now for the second time today. She looks great. Everyone meaning doctors and nurses who see her coment on how well she looks. Her and Mattie are visiting. We are taking turns with her today because she is so anxious. I'm going to turn this over to Mattie, it's my turn to sit with Tami.
Love, Kim
I just got done visiting with my momma. She is a bit out of it, and keeps thinking I'm saying something absolutely different than what I'm actually saying. Though that's a bit difficult now, we'll laugh about it someday when she's home playing scrabble with Grandma:)
I'm not all up to snuff like Aunt Kimmie is about everything. But I do know one thing: I have the most amazing momma in the whole world, and we're so excited to have a healthy mom.
Love you all, and I can't tell you how absolutely thankful I am for your fasting, prayers, and love. We really are eternally grateful. Really.
Love,
Maddie
Sorry this took so long, the internet was down most of the day.
Tami has lost a few more accesories today. Central line is gone. (IV access placed in her neck) She is down to one Iv. Which is used for antibiotics and pain medications. Opiates are discontiued. One chest tube is gone. The remaining one is still draining fluids. Epidural is working so much better. Lasix is given once daily and we call it a pee party. Tami put out about two litters of fluids. Just picture 2 litters of soda.
Vital signs remain normal . Tami uses the oxygen when she sleeps . She seems more comfortable with it on. Her oxygen level (O2 sat ) runs at 99% on room air. Which is perfect.
Pain is more controled today. Now we are dealing with a new problem. Tami is a little delusional , anxious, and fidigity. Everyone is telling us it is from the narcotics, wearing off. She seems to get aggravated easily.
She is sitting in the chair now for the second time today. She looks great. Everyone meaning doctors and nurses who see her coment on how well she looks. Her and Mattie are visiting. We are taking turns with her today because she is so anxious. I'm going to turn this over to Mattie, it's my turn to sit with Tami.
Love, Kim
I just got done visiting with my momma. She is a bit out of it, and keeps thinking I'm saying something absolutely different than what I'm actually saying. Though that's a bit difficult now, we'll laugh about it someday when she's home playing scrabble with Grandma:)
I'm not all up to snuff like Aunt Kimmie is about everything. But I do know one thing: I have the most amazing momma in the whole world, and we're so excited to have a healthy mom.
Love you all, and I can't tell you how absolutely thankful I am for your fasting, prayers, and love. We really are eternally grateful. Really.
Love,
Maddie
Friday, June 29, 2012
YEA we made it through day three!! It is 10:30 pm here and we are winding down for the night. Tami hopefully will sleep through the night. I'm going to spend the night with her. I think she feels better having someone watching over her. Plus I think it is good to have someone here when she wakes up, and help tend to her needs.
The staff here has been great. But you can't beat one to one care. The Lasix worked well pulling off the extra fluids. The chest tubes are draining well. Blood pressure and heart rate are up just little more than I would like to see, but they monitor her closley.
She was glad to get a nice bed bath tonight, although that first shower will feel so good soon.
Tami's throat is still sore so it makes it tough for her to talk. Plus she is still only doing moist mouth swabs. Tami loves to visit and talk , but we kept it very low key today in hopes rest will heal. When she is awake she needs lots of care, dressing changes, drains and foley emptied, incentive spirometer use, repositioning and prayers.
She is excited to see Mattie and sister Barb tomorrow. Mattie sure had adventurous day flying . She went from Utah to Calif. to NY to Boston. She started out at 500am and arrived in Boston sometime around 10 pm. She is spending the night with Amy . And will come in the morning to visit.
Sister Barb will hopefully arrive sometime around 11:00am. Praying her flight goes smooth.
I appologize for any errors in grammar and spelling . I'm going to end for now and rest with Tam. Love to all Kim
"So humble yourself under the mighty power of God, and in his good time he will honor you. Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about what happens to you."
1Peter 5:6-7
The staff here has been great. But you can't beat one to one care. The Lasix worked well pulling off the extra fluids. The chest tubes are draining well. Blood pressure and heart rate are up just little more than I would like to see, but they monitor her closley.
She was glad to get a nice bed bath tonight, although that first shower will feel so good soon.
Tami's throat is still sore so it makes it tough for her to talk. Plus she is still only doing moist mouth swabs. Tami loves to visit and talk , but we kept it very low key today in hopes rest will heal. When she is awake she needs lots of care, dressing changes, drains and foley emptied, incentive spirometer use, repositioning and prayers.
She is excited to see Mattie and sister Barb tomorrow. Mattie sure had adventurous day flying . She went from Utah to Calif. to NY to Boston. She started out at 500am and arrived in Boston sometime around 10 pm. She is spending the night with Amy . And will come in the morning to visit.
Sister Barb will hopefully arrive sometime around 11:00am. Praying her flight goes smooth.
I appologize for any errors in grammar and spelling . I'm going to end for now and rest with Tam. Love to all Kim
"So humble yourself under the mighty power of God, and in his good time he will honor you. Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about what happens to you."
1Peter 5:6-7
Hello Team Tami Recovery has been hard ,Tami has been through a lot, she has had a ot of pain today , they increased her pain meds and started her on lasix I think she is more comfortable now. Today they removed her ng tube and dr Lambert said it would be ok if she had an ice chip or 2 , she still has not eaten or drank anything and probably should not for a while . she has no tubes in her throat or nose now.Kimmy taking good care of her she getting a bath right now dr Lambert stopped by and continues to be impressed .I am so thankful Tami went ahead with this surgery there were times when I wondered would this ever happen. Kimmy continues to stay on top of things and it has been a blessing for Tami to have her own personal nurse. Thats all for kwow Tim ps thanks again so much for your prayers and fasting I continue to feel and believe we have not gone through this alone love to all Timm
I know everyone is worried, so I hope these words help. Tami is sleeping well she has been out now for a little over 2 hrs. She looks like an angel sleeping. Vtal signs remain good. Blood pressure has improved between the decrease of pain and the lasix. By her way the Lasix is working well. For anyone who does nt know Lasix is a diuretic(water pill) . Helps to get rid of extra fluids.
Tami just woke up, said she feels better, 'it just hurts when I talk". I'll write soon going to care for her now . She is smiling and sends lots of love.
Tami just woke up, said she feels better, 'it just hurts when I talk". I'll write soon going to care for her now . She is smiling and sends lots of love.
Just a quick up date. Tami is sleeping well now . Much better than this am. It is so tough for her to sleep with all the bells and whistles going off all the time. It is peacefull for her now. Lasix and additional pain meds given. Hopefully she will feel better when she awakens.
Not to change the subject but...
This is my first time seeing the Hope Lodge or any place to its liking. I'm almost embarassed to say this. You only know about these places when times like this arise.
I must say I'm very thankful. They have been wonderful to Tami and the family. The house has the feel of a home . Quaint, like a bed and breakfast. Everyone is so friendly, and you know your not alone even though you are away from you loved ones in a strange place. The American Cancer Society does do wonderful things. The folks that are part of this are wonderful. I come away feeling I need to do more in life to help out. That there is so much needed.
Love to all, Kim
Not to change the subject but...
This is my first time seeing the Hope Lodge or any place to its liking. I'm almost embarassed to say this. You only know about these places when times like this arise.
I must say I'm very thankful. They have been wonderful to Tami and the family. The house has the feel of a home . Quaint, like a bed and breakfast. Everyone is so friendly, and you know your not alone even though you are away from you loved ones in a strange place. The American Cancer Society does do wonderful things. The folks that are part of this are wonderful. I come away feeling I need to do more in life to help out. That there is so much needed.
Love to all, Kim
Good Morning all,
It has been a busy morning for Tami. Tim and I arrived at the hospital this around 9am to find Tami just waking up. She said she had her best sleep last night. Pain is what woke her up. Once she got the pain under, Dr. Lambert stoped by and examined Tami and ordered some Lasix to help decrease edema. Her swelling has gone down considerably from yesterday but she still is a little "fluffy". The Lasix will help with the rest. Dr. Lambert seems to be impressed with Tami's progress, but she wants Tami to stay put right now so they can keep a close eye on her.
Tami was up to the chair today for 45mins. As I said yesterday 3 day post op is the worse . She is hurting more today and very restless.
She is all cleaned up and put back to bed. She still has the NG tube in so nothing by mouth. She is using cold mouth swabs for moisture. I think she really needs to rest for awhile .
Tim left to see about picking up Mattie. I'm trying to be quite and just watch over Tami. She is always afraid that she will miss something.
I will continue to post throughout the day. Keep up the prayers.
Don't be afraid for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.
Isaiah 41:10
It has been a busy morning for Tami. Tim and I arrived at the hospital this around 9am to find Tami just waking up. She said she had her best sleep last night. Pain is what woke her up. Once she got the pain under, Dr. Lambert stoped by and examined Tami and ordered some Lasix to help decrease edema. Her swelling has gone down considerably from yesterday but she still is a little "fluffy". The Lasix will help with the rest. Dr. Lambert seems to be impressed with Tami's progress, but she wants Tami to stay put right now so they can keep a close eye on her.
Tami was up to the chair today for 45mins. As I said yesterday 3 day post op is the worse . She is hurting more today and very restless.
She is all cleaned up and put back to bed. She still has the NG tube in so nothing by mouth. She is using cold mouth swabs for moisture. I think she really needs to rest for awhile .
Tim left to see about picking up Mattie. I'm trying to be quite and just watch over Tami. She is always afraid that she will miss something.
I will continue to post throughout the day. Keep up the prayers.
Don't be afraid for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.
Isaiah 41:10
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Tami's Picture
Team Tami,
Tim was unable to add Tami's photo, so he asked if I would add it. Doesn't she look awesome? I heard they had to tie her down because she started lacing up her running shoes and was going to walk right out of there...(just kidding)
Hey, While I have your attention, I also want to let you know that you can now pre-register for the "YES, I CAN" 5K run and breakfast on September 8th to support Tami and the family. The event will be held at Weber State University - and we are going to have a lot of fun celebrating Tami and her recovery! Check out the "Register Now" link as well as more details about the event at Tami's Anything for a Friend page.
Thanks Tim for the timely updates! We really appreciate them!
Seth
Tim was unable to add Tami's photo, so he asked if I would add it. Doesn't she look awesome? I heard they had to tie her down because she started lacing up her running shoes and was going to walk right out of there...(just kidding)
Hey, While I have your attention, I also want to let you know that you can now pre-register for the "YES, I CAN" 5K run and breakfast on September 8th to support Tami and the family. The event will be held at Weber State University - and we are going to have a lot of fun celebrating Tami and her recovery! Check out the "Register Now" link as well as more details about the event at Tami's Anything for a Friend page.
Thanks Tim for the timely updates! We really appreciate them!
Seth
Hello everyone,
Tim and I will try to keep you updated on Tami's healing process. Judy was the best at this job. We are trying to post a picture of Tami but we are having technical difficulties. When I arrived to the hospital to see Tam this afternoon I was truley amazed . Tami was alert and beautiful as always. Hooked up to 6 IV's, pain pump, NG tube, chest tubes, several other contraptions and smiling. She is one tough cookie. Vital signs are good. Tami has a pain pump and does well managing her pain. She is doing her incentive spirometer (little sucker as she calls it ) . We got her up to the chair she tolerated it for an hour.
We worked on cough and deep breathing exercises and had a nice visit remanising. It is so good to be here to help .
Tami is finally resting . I think my typing put her to sleep. We are going to let her rest. Third day post op is usually the toughest. Please continue praying. I can feel the prayers are working.
"And we can be confident that he will listen to us whenever we ask him for anything in line with his will. And if we know he is listening when we make our requests, we can be sure he will give us what we ask for."
1 John 5:14-15
Tim and I will try to keep you updated on Tami's healing process. Judy was the best at this job. We are trying to post a picture of Tami but we are having technical difficulties. When I arrived to the hospital to see Tam this afternoon I was truley amazed . Tami was alert and beautiful as always. Hooked up to 6 IV's, pain pump, NG tube, chest tubes, several other contraptions and smiling. She is one tough cookie. Vital signs are good. Tami has a pain pump and does well managing her pain. She is doing her incentive spirometer (little sucker as she calls it ) . We got her up to the chair she tolerated it for an hour.
We worked on cough and deep breathing exercises and had a nice visit remanising. It is so good to be here to help .
Tami is finally resting . I think my typing put her to sleep. We are going to let her rest. Third day post op is usually the toughest. Please continue praying. I can feel the prayers are working.
"And we can be confident that he will listen to us whenever we ask him for anything in line with his will. And if we know he is listening when we make our requests, we can be sure he will give us what we ask for."
1 John 5:14-15
Helo TeamTami, This is actually day 2, post surgery. As part of Tami's recovery process we are shuttling care givers in and out. This assures she is not left alone and no single person has to stay so long. This has helped us deal with the distance. We are thankful for this hospital and they are taking good care of us.... Today I picked up my sister, she flew in from Detoit, she is a nurse and is keeping ICU on there toes. Tami has been sitting up a lot today, she pushes herself incredible hard I wish she would just rest but Tami is not one to let grass grow under her feet / bum... She should get out of ICU tomorrow at which time she could get cards or flowers. I will keep you posted as to her room number... Her spirts are down a little because it is a difficult recovery and its so hard to sleep without the epidural (which was taken out after surgery ) She is in a fair amount of pain but I really do not think as bad as the first surgery. She continues to be under the care of Dr Lambert whom we love and adore we would like to take her home with us. She loves Utah and will be there in oct. to take out her edowment. We truly believe that with out her this surgery would not have happened we are eternally grateful
I expect or speculate she could come home with Lana, that would mean Tami would be here another 3 weeks There is risk of infection and as with any major surgery a possiblity of set back but for now the Doctor is very pleased with her progess. we will keep you posted and as always your prayers and words of encouragement are appreciated . Love to all !!! Tim and Tam
I expect or speculate she could come home with Lana, that would mean Tami would be here another 3 weeks There is risk of infection and as with any major surgery a possiblity of set back but for now the Doctor is very pleased with her progess. we will keep you posted and as always your prayers and words of encouragement are appreciated . Love to all !!! Tim and Tam
Hi Family ,Tami and I are thankful for this incredible journey we call life. She is still in ICU but progressing very well, she asked me last night to bring up some lipstick, those of you you know Tami very well know this is a sure fire sign that she is on the road to recovery. She has been up sitting in a chair and doing well . She still has a lot of fluid buildup but sitting up up helps get rid of all that. Tami has always been such a fightrer that it would not surprise me to see her put her running shoes on tomorrow and waltz right out of this place.Dr lambert continues to be impressed with her recovery.thats all for now . we love and appreciate your prayers and know we are never alone in this journey love and kisses , Tim and Tam
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Good Morning Team Tami: Day 2 post surgery
Tim didn't sleep as well as I did....but I think the rest from thinking Tami was in good hands helped me find a few hours of rest. This morning We went down to the kitchen and visited a few minutes with Marika and Eric from Boise. They are leaving for Finland today...She has advanced Breast Cancer and it has metastisized trhoughout her body and into her brain. She's such a sweet spirit at 39 and says she is living only because of the Holy Spirit. She's going to Finland to see her mom and Dad and hopes that she can live long enough to enjoy them and her time with her husband. Tim has totally enjoyed the strength that comes from being around that table....you all of a sudden realize you are not alone but surrounded by those suffering that find faith and hope through the struggle.....which in turn strengthens us and surrounds us with love
We knew they didn't want us there very early so we spent that time having breakfast and visiting. We got here and had to wait for about 15 minutes before they'd let us in to see Tami. When they are working on her, they like their privacy. We were so glad that her breathing tube was out and to us she looked so much better......still filled with fluid and no wrinkles!!!!!but she is not in the mood for jokes or smiles right now.....although Tim and I were talking and we thought she was sleeping....we were talking quietly about renting the car for Barb and others coming....she piped right up, "She can get a better rate" It took all I had to keep from laughing right out loud.....so at times her mind is alert.....be careful what you say in there.......She didn't know if she had an illiostomy or if everything had gone all right.....I'm still not sure if she knows even after we told her because she is in and out of awareness. Tim got a kick out of her when he told her how well she had done, she turned to me and said, "Really Judy?" Those of you who know Tim know that he often teases to the point that you can't always beleive what he says.....so even Tami was seeking validation......But we think it put her at ease to hear all the good news......we may have to tell her again, but it's a story we'll never tire of telling. (Tim says "What a difference a year makes" He was thinking of the news he was told last July at North Davis when he was told by the Doctor that she was really bad and wouldn't make it 6 months....Those words plus all the negativity from all those Doctors really put him in a tailspin) Plain and simple, The doctors there in Utah do not see this cancer enough to know anything about it. Dr. Wisenot (their Utah Oncologist) is now in consultation with Dr. Lambert and any tests, study, and follow-up will be in sinc with Dr. Lambert......that gives us a lot of hope. Dr. Lambert is a true modern day Mother Teresa and We just adore her for her care and concern. Overall Tami is doing amazingly well and we thank you for continued prayers and we appreciate the concern and love and prayers from everyone. I think if Tami could get up and jump around she'd do that knowing that living life and loving people and enjoying fun times is right ahead....(Maybe a few months down the road but what the heck.......Life is good
Love Judy & Tim
Tim didn't sleep as well as I did....but I think the rest from thinking Tami was in good hands helped me find a few hours of rest. This morning We went down to the kitchen and visited a few minutes with Marika and Eric from Boise. They are leaving for Finland today...She has advanced Breast Cancer and it has metastisized trhoughout her body and into her brain. She's such a sweet spirit at 39 and says she is living only because of the Holy Spirit. She's going to Finland to see her mom and Dad and hopes that she can live long enough to enjoy them and her time with her husband. Tim has totally enjoyed the strength that comes from being around that table....you all of a sudden realize you are not alone but surrounded by those suffering that find faith and hope through the struggle.....which in turn strengthens us and surrounds us with love
We knew they didn't want us there very early so we spent that time having breakfast and visiting. We got here and had to wait for about 15 minutes before they'd let us in to see Tami. When they are working on her, they like their privacy. We were so glad that her breathing tube was out and to us she looked so much better......still filled with fluid and no wrinkles!!!!!but she is not in the mood for jokes or smiles right now.....although Tim and I were talking and we thought she was sleeping....we were talking quietly about renting the car for Barb and others coming....she piped right up, "She can get a better rate" It took all I had to keep from laughing right out loud.....so at times her mind is alert.....be careful what you say in there.......She didn't know if she had an illiostomy or if everything had gone all right.....I'm still not sure if she knows even after we told her because she is in and out of awareness. Tim got a kick out of her when he told her how well she had done, she turned to me and said, "Really Judy?" Those of you who know Tim know that he often teases to the point that you can't always beleive what he says.....so even Tami was seeking validation......But we think it put her at ease to hear all the good news......we may have to tell her again, but it's a story we'll never tire of telling. (Tim says "What a difference a year makes" He was thinking of the news he was told last July at North Davis when he was told by the Doctor that she was really bad and wouldn't make it 6 months....Those words plus all the negativity from all those Doctors really put him in a tailspin) Plain and simple, The doctors there in Utah do not see this cancer enough to know anything about it. Dr. Wisenot (their Utah Oncologist) is now in consultation with Dr. Lambert and any tests, study, and follow-up will be in sinc with Dr. Lambert......that gives us a lot of hope. Dr. Lambert is a true modern day Mother Teresa and We just adore her for her care and concern. Overall Tami is doing amazingly well and we thank you for continued prayers and we appreciate the concern and love and prayers from everyone. I think if Tami could get up and jump around she'd do that knowing that living life and loving people and enjoying fun times is right ahead....(Maybe a few months down the road but what the heck.......Life is good
Love Judy & Tim
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Last post for operation day 1
Hi All......Dr. Lambert walked into the waiting room precisely at 9:00 P.M. and had turned Tami over to the ICU for care for the night. She told us that Tami had received 1 litre of blood and 12-13 litres of fluid. She also said that Tami did wonderfully and that Tami's particular cancer was one of the easier to remove..;...I guess its liquidity and the fact that it wasn't too hard to chip away at....She said every surgery is different. Having said that, 13 hours of surgery doesn't sound too easy, does it?
Dr. Lambert walked us down to the ICU and we waited over an hour just to walk in to see her. They were doing x-rays and making sure she was hooked up to eveything. Tim and I felt bad after we had seen her because we think we agitated her a bit because she was trying to talk.....She acted like she didn't want Tim to leave. She couldn't talk because she still had her breathing tube in and her hands were tied down so she couldn't pull it out. She wanted to write something for us, but she was too out of it to write letters. They were going to make sure she slept the night so she wouldn't be upset with her surroundings. The nurse told us she was still sedated from surgery so Tim and I left.....She never opened her eyes wide and will probaby not remember that we were even there. Her face was puffy along with her neck and hands......the amount of fluid was evident.....We just had to take for granted that Dr. Lambert said she was doing very well. They told us we could be there between 8 and 9 tomorrow morning so we'll plan on that. Tim bought her a new pair of running shoes so she could see them and fight like she always does.....that will have to wait until she's more alert, plus the ICU is a no nonsense place. maybe when she gets to her room. I just hope and pray she can rest through this night. There she lay in all her beauty....nose tube, mouth tube, hands covered.....her hair was still curly, her eyes still on except smudged a bit, fingernails polished.....I love that sister of mine and Tim and I have wept for joy for the tender mercies that she is still with us and her struggle for health is on the horizon.
Nate and Natalie walked down to the waiting room and visited with us.....We were amazed that Nate could walk that far in just the 1st week. They are the sweetest couple. Nate's progress has been an inspiration for Tim.....He hopes Tami will make progress like Nathan has....but knowing Nathan is several years younger and of course dealing with different issues.
Well....Goodnight..It's 12:30 AM...It's been a very long day.
Love, Judy
Hi All......Dr. Lambert walked into the waiting room precisely at 9:00 P.M. and had turned Tami over to the ICU for care for the night. She told us that Tami had received 1 litre of blood and 12-13 litres of fluid. She also said that Tami did wonderfully and that Tami's particular cancer was one of the easier to remove..;...I guess its liquidity and the fact that it wasn't too hard to chip away at....She said every surgery is different. Having said that, 13 hours of surgery doesn't sound too easy, does it?
Dr. Lambert walked us down to the ICU and we waited over an hour just to walk in to see her. They were doing x-rays and making sure she was hooked up to eveything. Tim and I felt bad after we had seen her because we think we agitated her a bit because she was trying to talk.....She acted like she didn't want Tim to leave. She couldn't talk because she still had her breathing tube in and her hands were tied down so she couldn't pull it out. She wanted to write something for us, but she was too out of it to write letters. They were going to make sure she slept the night so she wouldn't be upset with her surroundings. The nurse told us she was still sedated from surgery so Tim and I left.....She never opened her eyes wide and will probaby not remember that we were even there. Her face was puffy along with her neck and hands......the amount of fluid was evident.....We just had to take for granted that Dr. Lambert said she was doing very well. They told us we could be there between 8 and 9 tomorrow morning so we'll plan on that. Tim bought her a new pair of running shoes so she could see them and fight like she always does.....that will have to wait until she's more alert, plus the ICU is a no nonsense place. maybe when she gets to her room. I just hope and pray she can rest through this night. There she lay in all her beauty....nose tube, mouth tube, hands covered.....her hair was still curly, her eyes still on except smudged a bit, fingernails polished.....I love that sister of mine and Tim and I have wept for joy for the tender mercies that she is still with us and her struggle for health is on the horizon.
Nate and Natalie walked down to the waiting room and visited with us.....We were amazed that Nate could walk that far in just the 1st week. They are the sweetest couple. Nate's progress has been an inspiration for Tim.....He hopes Tami will make progress like Nathan has....but knowing Nathan is several years younger and of course dealing with different issues.
Well....Goodnight..It's 12:30 AM...It's been a very long day.
Love, Judy
Hey Everyone......YYYYEEEEEAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!!!!!.........Good news.....Tami will be finished with her surgery around 9:00 but Dr. Lambert just met with Tim and I and we are thinking she didn't say one negative thing.....and we probed.....She had 3 larger tumors that were removed, hysterectomy, removal of the spleen and Gall Bladder..They took out about 2 feet of the small intestine, part of her colon (She said she still had plenty left to rehook up to).....They took out linings around the diaphram, the omentum which holds things in place, the peritoneal lining and she said her nausea may have been caused by kinks in her colon and almost total blockage....she said like a pretzel... One of Tami's big worries was that she would have an illeostomy?SP? which would mean she would carry a bag and would no longer have regular bowel movements. They didn't have to do that and we were so happy for her....They are now doing the hot chemo wash and then they have to wash that out, hook up her colon and small intestines and put eveything that she has left back together and staple her up. Nate had 45 staples (I think that was it). Dr. Lambert will come back out about 9 and tell us when it's all finished. Tim said, "I'd like to give you a hug but I probably shouldn't, she said, "Well you could" So we had a hug fest and were all smiles. Tim asked her if she was happy about the surgery and she said, "I really am". They took a lot of the popcorn tumors (Mucins) out.....that's what took so long.....but now she said we can't hurry through this last part.....she has to be very careful as she reattaches her bowel so there is no leakage and infection and this part is very tedious and she has to be so very careful. She thinks Tami's nausea will be better now her bowels are in better shape. So three more hours approximately and Tami can start Training for her next run.......just waking up will be her first miracle after the many from her surgery and we look forward to seeing her bright eyes and giving her the good news. My eyes are full of tears as we write these wonderful words. We know she is not out of the woods...she has much to recover from.........We have felt your prayers as we have been here today.....and we ask for continued prayers in her behalf as she begins her marathon to recovery. One more thing.....she said They have to look through the microscope to determine if she will need any follow-up chemotherapy....but at this moment she did not know for sure if that would be necessary.
I don't think there could have been a much better outcome at this point.
Love you so much
Judy & Tim
I don't think there could have been a much better outcome at this point.
Love you so much
Judy & Tim
Team Tami:
We are sitting here in the waiting room watching the rain clouds gather....Tim just received a phone call from the front desk. Dr. Lambert sent a nurse out to call and tell Tim that the surgery is going well.....longer than she expected....we think she has been in surgery almost 7 hours and they said she'd be in there until later into the night( maybe 8 or 9 o'clock)...so we think she's probably about half done....so probably 13 hours or more. The nurse said that they wil be doing the chemo wash which is a good report....If they can't get almost all the cancer out, they won't do the chemo wash because it is only effective on the very small pieces that sneak into the crevices and can't be seen or microscopic pieces. So Tim was especially happy about that. Not much to go on but this is a good milestone report that we had eagerly waited for. Dr. Lambert will probably come out and talk to us when they start the chemo wash. AT that time they will tell us which organs they took out, and give us the full report.
Judy
We are sitting here in the waiting room watching the rain clouds gather....Tim just received a phone call from the front desk. Dr. Lambert sent a nurse out to call and tell Tim that the surgery is going well.....longer than she expected....we think she has been in surgery almost 7 hours and they said she'd be in there until later into the night( maybe 8 or 9 o'clock)...so we think she's probably about half done....so probably 13 hours or more. The nurse said that they wil be doing the chemo wash which is a good report....If they can't get almost all the cancer out, they won't do the chemo wash because it is only effective on the very small pieces that sneak into the crevices and can't be seen or microscopic pieces. So Tim was especially happy about that. Not much to go on but this is a good milestone report that we had eagerly waited for. Dr. Lambert will probably come out and talk to us when they start the chemo wash. AT that time they will tell us which organs they took out, and give us the full report.
Judy
Hi everyone.....Tami was wheeled away about 7:00 our time and 5:00 your time....We were impressed with everyone who attended to her....After several nights of little or no sleep....she was almost out with just the IV......The surgery should start within a few minutes and Dr. Lambert said she was prepared for about 12 hours....depending on what they had to do. In April and also Today....everyone who speaks of Dr. Lambert calls her, world class, well respected, nice along with amazingly competent. We found out today that her father is a highly respected anestesiologist here in Boston and that he has prepared several medical journals and that our Dr. Lambert helped him in her earlier years....She has been well prepared for her time with our Tami. Tim and I talked about the journey to today and how last August we would never have imagined that she would be here in the hands of one of the best surgeons anywhere in the world.....WE wanted to get her the best options back in August and it is a miracle that she was led here. We beleive that it is a product of so many prayers, blessings,Tami's faith, the faith of friends and family, and most importantly, the help of the Lord.
Tami was peaceful and resting(and Tim said, resolute and determined to push forward) after her IV began. We'll keep you posted as soon as we hear anything
Love you,
Judy
Tami was peaceful and resting(and Tim said, resolute and determined to push forward) after her IV began. We'll keep you posted as soon as we hear anything
Love you,
Judy
Monday, June 25, 2012
To all you Dear Ones:
Tim and & feel a little solemn tonight because Tami can't eat and she doesn't feel well and we can't do anything for her. She's trying to get some paperwork done, she feels like she wants to run away and yet she's hopeful all goes through tomorrow.....her trepidation is apparent and yet she has faith.....she just went outside to move the car because she wanted to get some fresh air and set outside a few minutes.....Tim and I are sitting here hoping she just doesn't run away.......Our human emotions help us all to understand that we all might very well feel the same way.....such is the connection we feel as we ponder hopes and feelings and the distress in those we love. We need to leave by 5:40 tomorrow so she can be at the hospital by 6:00.....I wish I could do her taxes or suffer some for her or take away her anxiety.....alas.....all I can do is love her and sit beside her and try to get anything she wants. So we go forth and find strength in the numbers of all those whose faith and prayers are mingled with ours and hope for the very best outcome. We're thankful for the blessings the Lord sends our way
Love you all
Judy
Tim and & feel a little solemn tonight because Tami can't eat and she doesn't feel well and we can't do anything for her. She's trying to get some paperwork done, she feels like she wants to run away and yet she's hopeful all goes through tomorrow.....her trepidation is apparent and yet she has faith.....she just went outside to move the car because she wanted to get some fresh air and set outside a few minutes.....Tim and I are sitting here hoping she just doesn't run away.......Our human emotions help us all to understand that we all might very well feel the same way.....such is the connection we feel as we ponder hopes and feelings and the distress in those we love. We need to leave by 5:40 tomorrow so she can be at the hospital by 6:00.....I wish I could do her taxes or suffer some for her or take away her anxiety.....alas.....all I can do is love her and sit beside her and try to get anything she wants. So we go forth and find strength in the numbers of all those whose faith and prayers are mingled with ours and hope for the very best outcome. We're thankful for the blessings the Lord sends our way
Love you all
Judy
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Hi Everyone....
It's Sunday night and we're here in the meeting room downstairs....Tami is working on her Taxes and we're trying to figure things out on how to contact those who are interested in following Tami's progress. There are people here in Worcester 2nd ward who also want to know how she is doing....we think this blog is probably the best way....I may also use some e-mail...we'll keep updates as we receive them. Tami struggled to get ready for church today....she didn't feel well and said...I just need to lay here a minute....But we did get there before it started and sat next to Dr. Lambert. Nate's wife Natalie and her Sister and Nate's Mom were also there. Tami and Tim went to see Nate last night at the hospital and were really surprised at how well he looked. He'll still be in the hospital for a few more days but is doing well considering the length of time he was in surgery...(14 hours) We enjoyed the meetings. Tami had to go get a sandwich in the car during Sunday School and then came back in for Relief Society. Dr. Lambert gave a wonderful lesson on Elder Holland's conference talk on "Laborers in the vineyard"....She's such a tiny person ...smaller than Tami...Shorter and tinier...Tami said she feels big next to her..she's also a runner and gets in 4 to 5 miles every single day..she's really an amazing lady...she just recently quit running on Sunday. Last week Tami had arranged for 2 priesthood holders to give her a blessing. Brother Harris and Sister Harris's step-father from Florida gave her the blessing....It was conforting and Tami said she felt the warmth of the spirit and it gave her peace. We appreciate the love and prayers of our wonderful friends and family. (Tim wrote the last sentence while I was talking to Marsha). Tami also appreciates all the e-mails, letters, prayers, thoughtfulness and all you have done for her...what a blessing to have so much love and support. Tami can have a small breakfast and then it's just liquids for the rest of the day....I can't imagine that will help her nausea much but she'll tough it out and then Tuesday morning early we'll be at the hospital.....we're still hoping there's not a last minute glitch. Thanks again for you prayers.
Love Judy
It's Sunday night and we're here in the meeting room downstairs....Tami is working on her Taxes and we're trying to figure things out on how to contact those who are interested in following Tami's progress. There are people here in Worcester 2nd ward who also want to know how she is doing....we think this blog is probably the best way....I may also use some e-mail...we'll keep updates as we receive them. Tami struggled to get ready for church today....she didn't feel well and said...I just need to lay here a minute....But we did get there before it started and sat next to Dr. Lambert. Nate's wife Natalie and her Sister and Nate's Mom were also there. Tami and Tim went to see Nate last night at the hospital and were really surprised at how well he looked. He'll still be in the hospital for a few more days but is doing well considering the length of time he was in surgery...(14 hours) We enjoyed the meetings. Tami had to go get a sandwich in the car during Sunday School and then came back in for Relief Society. Dr. Lambert gave a wonderful lesson on Elder Holland's conference talk on "Laborers in the vineyard"....She's such a tiny person ...smaller than Tami...Shorter and tinier...Tami said she feels big next to her..she's also a runner and gets in 4 to 5 miles every single day..she's really an amazing lady...she just recently quit running on Sunday. Last week Tami had arranged for 2 priesthood holders to give her a blessing. Brother Harris and Sister Harris's step-father from Florida gave her the blessing....It was conforting and Tami said she felt the warmth of the spirit and it gave her peace. We appreciate the love and prayers of our wonderful friends and family. (Tim wrote the last sentence while I was talking to Marsha). Tami also appreciates all the e-mails, letters, prayers, thoughtfulness and all you have done for her...what a blessing to have so much love and support. Tami can have a small breakfast and then it's just liquids for the rest of the day....I can't imagine that will help her nausea much but she'll tough it out and then Tuesday morning early we'll be at the hospital.....we're still hoping there's not a last minute glitch. Thanks again for you prayers.
Love Judy
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Hi friends and family.....
Tami's pretesting went well yesterday....Preadmisiion tesing, PreSurgical Evaluation, Electrocardiograph, about 10 vials of blood, chest x-rays, meeting with the anesthesiologist.....and she said, "Lucky Nathan....his surgery is all behind him now."...I'm just thinking she wishes hers was all over because she said she gets the hebee gebeez......like any of us would....right?
Nathan's surgery was mostly positive.....they were able to get most of the mucin but some was still not able to be removed....They did the hot chemotherapy and hope that that will take care of the rest.....He will have to have more treatment when he feels better and returns to Utah. Tami has been very interested in all of this because she has grown to love the Hardy Family and because it is similar to her experience. We always know that our care is always in the Lord's hands and we trust to have the faith to weather the storms. The surgery was about 14 hours....can you imagine the doctor's stamina????
If you want to find out about Nate and Natalie they have a blog.....(hardyfamilyupdates.blogspot.com)
We found out that Nates Mom and Dad know our Uncle Nolan Kirkman who lives in Tremonton....Small world.....
Well....Tami is in a holding pattern trying to stay busy as not to think about all of this...she has paperwork to do and sleeps a lot (during the morning hours). Tim is flying out Saturday and I just found out at 1:00 this morning that I'm going out to support Tim and Tam also. I'm planning to be there from Thursday just until Wednesday night. Seth was able to find me a free flight out....1 seat left...and a reasonable flight home. We're all hoping and praying for the best.
Love
Judy
Tami's pretesting went well yesterday....Preadmisiion tesing, PreSurgical Evaluation, Electrocardiograph, about 10 vials of blood, chest x-rays, meeting with the anesthesiologist.....and she said, "Lucky Nathan....his surgery is all behind him now."...I'm just thinking she wishes hers was all over because she said she gets the hebee gebeez......like any of us would....right?
Nathan's surgery was mostly positive.....they were able to get most of the mucin but some was still not able to be removed....They did the hot chemotherapy and hope that that will take care of the rest.....He will have to have more treatment when he feels better and returns to Utah. Tami has been very interested in all of this because she has grown to love the Hardy Family and because it is similar to her experience. We always know that our care is always in the Lord's hands and we trust to have the faith to weather the storms. The surgery was about 14 hours....can you imagine the doctor's stamina????
If you want to find out about Nate and Natalie they have a blog.....(hardyfamilyupdates.blogspot.com)
We found out that Nates Mom and Dad know our Uncle Nolan Kirkman who lives in Tremonton....Small world.....
Well....Tami is in a holding pattern trying to stay busy as not to think about all of this...she has paperwork to do and sleeps a lot (during the morning hours). Tim is flying out Saturday and I just found out at 1:00 this morning that I'm going out to support Tim and Tam also. I'm planning to be there from Thursday just until Wednesday night. Seth was able to find me a free flight out....1 seat left...and a reasonable flight home. We're all hoping and praying for the best.
Love
Judy
Monday, June 18, 2012
Hi Everyone.....Tami had a good Sunday and went to church in the "Woosta" 2nd Ward....She said, "No matter where you go-there's wonderful people who make you feel like family". Kelly's mother is there...(Kelly spoke in CHurch the 1st week Tami and I went) She's from Florida and told Tami if she ever got to Florida she had a place to stay....(That's just how our Tami loves people)....everyone is her bestest friend!!!!
Tami has some wonderful friends in the Ward and they have offered to give her a blessing next week. Brother Presset who is from Price will probably assist Dr. Lambert in the surgery....He just got released from the bishopbric and will soon return to Price....Tami can't say enough good about the people there.
Of course Tami's cool manuvering got the car rental extended and saved 190.00 in the process....I'd like her on my team...wouldn't you?
She met the Hardy's and has had some good talks with them.....these are the connections that have strengthened Tami....members of her same club!!!! Nate Hardy was born and raised in Tremonton on a Dairy Farm.....They tried to compare notes to see is anything they did was similar to contract the "Monster" Appendiceal Cancer....They couldn't come up with anything in particular....but it does her good to visit. Nate is 37 years old and his surgery could be 12-15 hours....Dr. Lambert told them that a nurse comes out to the waiting room to update family and then she comes out at the end. We hope and pray everything goes well for them.
Tami said, "Even though it's sad and your heart hurts for people as they share about all their different cancers and situations, I've been strengthened by their association."
We hope all goes well for Tami tomorrow also for her pre-testing......
Love, Judy
Tami has some wonderful friends in the Ward and they have offered to give her a blessing next week. Brother Presset who is from Price will probably assist Dr. Lambert in the surgery....He just got released from the bishopbric and will soon return to Price....Tami can't say enough good about the people there.
Of course Tami's cool manuvering got the car rental extended and saved 190.00 in the process....I'd like her on my team...wouldn't you?
She met the Hardy's and has had some good talks with them.....these are the connections that have strengthened Tami....members of her same club!!!! Nate Hardy was born and raised in Tremonton on a Dairy Farm.....They tried to compare notes to see is anything they did was similar to contract the "Monster" Appendiceal Cancer....They couldn't come up with anything in particular....but it does her good to visit. Nate is 37 years old and his surgery could be 12-15 hours....Dr. Lambert told them that a nurse comes out to the waiting room to update family and then she comes out at the end. We hope and pray everything goes well for them.
Tami said, "Even though it's sad and your heart hurts for people as they share about all their different cancers and situations, I've been strengthened by their association."
We hope all goes well for Tami tomorrow also for her pre-testing......
Love, Judy
Saturday, June 16, 2012
Hi Homeys......That's what Tami started her e-mail with a couple of days ago.......She sent a couple of pictures but I haven't been able to put them up for viewing....Seth is coming tomorrow so maybe i'll see if it's my computer or my brain????????? Anyway...She hasn't been able to meet the Hardy's yet....schedules and sleeping different....they'll be back tomorrow night, so maybe then. She attended the 18th "Relay for Life" and they handed her a quilt square and told her to write something on it.....Of course she wrote.."YES I CAN" as only our artist sister can.....
....pretty neat!!! She also had a picture of the completed quilt...Amazing!!!
It lasted 24 hours but Tami knew she wouldn't be able to stay the whole time. She said, "I'd never been involved in anything like this. They started the event with a survivors reception and a Ribbon cutting then Cancer Survivors Celebration Lap started around the field-The volunteers/caregivers were given a shite T-shirt and the Survivors were given purple.
The bagpipes started playing for the Luminaria Ceremony-in remembrance of those who lost the Fight.....I made one for Team Papa (Our dad who died of Cancer back in 1988) I lit a candle and made a loop in Dad's memory...."Dad I love you...Truly the Richest man in the World. I enjoyed myself...Quite an inspiring event"
Sounds pretty cool huh?
Dr. Lambert called and spoke with Tami and asked her if she had met the Hardy's yet...and asked her how she was feeling....We're Thankful for Dr. Lambert.
Today she spent time (too Much) looking for a birthday gift for her old sister....(Me)...I told her she didn't need to do that , but you don't tell Tami what to do....I wish she would have just sent a card....none the less....I love her. She ended by saying, "Good Night-I hope- (We hope too, Tami)
I'll post those pictures soon
Love
Judy
....pretty neat!!! She also had a picture of the completed quilt...Amazing!!!
It lasted 24 hours but Tami knew she wouldn't be able to stay the whole time. She said, "I'd never been involved in anything like this. They started the event with a survivors reception and a Ribbon cutting then Cancer Survivors Celebration Lap started around the field-The volunteers/caregivers were given a shite T-shirt and the Survivors were given purple.
The bagpipes started playing for the Luminaria Ceremony-in remembrance of those who lost the Fight.....I made one for Team Papa (Our dad who died of Cancer back in 1988) I lit a candle and made a loop in Dad's memory...."Dad I love you...Truly the Richest man in the World. I enjoyed myself...Quite an inspiring event"
Sounds pretty cool huh?
Dr. Lambert called and spoke with Tami and asked her if she had met the Hardy's yet...and asked her how she was feeling....We're Thankful for Dr. Lambert.
Today she spent time (too Much) looking for a birthday gift for her old sister....(Me)...I told her she didn't need to do that , but you don't tell Tami what to do....I wish she would have just sent a card....none the less....I love her. She ended by saying, "Good Night-I hope- (We hope too, Tami)
I'll post those pictures soon
Love
Judy
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Hi Team Tami....
Tami visited with Abby's girls tonight....they met at the Bostom Temple....it was rush hour again and it took Tami 1 and a half hours to go 30 miles ....she got there on time but the girls were stuck in traffic for another hour and a half. Tami said she enjoyed just resting at the temple....She said, "I was able to enjoy some quiet time sitting at the temple and I thoroughly enjoyed that calm and quiet....I don't know if that's my age or little club of which I never wanted to be a part. Amy bought our dinner...a good piping hot cup of chunky chicken noodle soup with root beer for burpage.....Been a bit nauseated...I think it has something to do with the "Mass Turnpike" and rush-hour traffic.
She got her hair cut at "Great Clips" and she misses the Master's Touch (Her Sister Lana who takes such good care of her at home). She said she did look a little beter when she decided she didn't have any Rouge on, and got that taken care of.
The Relay for Life of Worcester starts tomorrow at 6:00 PM at the college of the Holy Cross Freshman Field....They are helping create a world with less cancer and more Birthdays...(She said She liked that!)....Her last words were, "Hey, I've been watching a good game up until 5 minutes ago.....the wrong team just took victorious....PIG!...Well on the Bright side.....we now have to go to at least 5 games, which gives me something to look forward to, while in this big old fat holding pattern."
She struggles to get to sleep before 4 or 5 even though she said it was quiet there and she hopes to meet the Hardy's tomorrow.
Goodnight,
Love
Judy
Tami visited with Abby's girls tonight....they met at the Bostom Temple....it was rush hour again and it took Tami 1 and a half hours to go 30 miles ....she got there on time but the girls were stuck in traffic for another hour and a half. Tami said she enjoyed just resting at the temple....She said, "I was able to enjoy some quiet time sitting at the temple and I thoroughly enjoyed that calm and quiet....I don't know if that's my age or little club of which I never wanted to be a part. Amy bought our dinner...a good piping hot cup of chunky chicken noodle soup with root beer for burpage.....Been a bit nauseated...I think it has something to do with the "Mass Turnpike" and rush-hour traffic.
She got her hair cut at "Great Clips" and she misses the Master's Touch (Her Sister Lana who takes such good care of her at home). She said she did look a little beter when she decided she didn't have any Rouge on, and got that taken care of.
The Relay for Life of Worcester starts tomorrow at 6:00 PM at the college of the Holy Cross Freshman Field....They are helping create a world with less cancer and more Birthdays...(She said She liked that!)....Her last words were, "Hey, I've been watching a good game up until 5 minutes ago.....the wrong team just took victorious....PIG!...Well on the Bright side.....we now have to go to at least 5 games, which gives me something to look forward to, while in this big old fat holding pattern."
She struggles to get to sleep before 4 or 5 even though she said it was quiet there and she hopes to meet the Hardy's tomorrow.
Goodnight,
Love
Judy
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Hi Everyone:
Tonight Tami Said,"Somewhere in the back of my mind, being here in Massachusetts (Only 3 miles-within jogging distance from the U Mass Hospital) gives me HOPE that surgery is on the Horizon and might just one day come to fruition."
The past 2 days she has been just sitting around the table a lot and visiting plus doing her paperwork.....bills, taxes, etc. The alarm sounded tonight when she tried to step out at midnight to talk on the phone to Maddie....Her voice is loud and carries far....so she thought she'd step out....well the alarm goes off.....she hurried to push the code numbers and luckily it went off and the night staff member didn't catch her yet.......She didn't feel quite as good yesterday and took plenty of her anti-nausea pills....but they got her through. It's been raining out there....I wish we'd get some here......She said,"Sat around and visited with my people today....A 22 year old grad student came by to interview some of the guests at the Hope Lodge for a survey....what a doll she was...she reminded me a little bit of my own girls and we started visiting at 3:00 and finished up at 6:00 (Sounds like Tam doesn't it)...So very delightful rainy Wednesday afternoon....Visited with George, Kevin and Julie in the Main Room, mixed with Deb's comings and goings.....great afternoon....This truly has felt like "Home away from Home" I love my people" I'll close with that.
Love,Judy
Tonight Tami Said,"Somewhere in the back of my mind, being here in Massachusetts (Only 3 miles-within jogging distance from the U Mass Hospital) gives me HOPE that surgery is on the Horizon and might just one day come to fruition."
The past 2 days she has been just sitting around the table a lot and visiting plus doing her paperwork.....bills, taxes, etc. The alarm sounded tonight when she tried to step out at midnight to talk on the phone to Maddie....Her voice is loud and carries far....so she thought she'd step out....well the alarm goes off.....she hurried to push the code numbers and luckily it went off and the night staff member didn't catch her yet.......She didn't feel quite as good yesterday and took plenty of her anti-nausea pills....but they got her through. It's been raining out there....I wish we'd get some here......She said,"Sat around and visited with my people today....A 22 year old grad student came by to interview some of the guests at the Hope Lodge for a survey....what a doll she was...she reminded me a little bit of my own girls and we started visiting at 3:00 and finished up at 6:00 (Sounds like Tam doesn't it)...So very delightful rainy Wednesday afternoon....Visited with George, Kevin and Julie in the Main Room, mixed with Deb's comings and goings.....great afternoon....This truly has felt like "Home away from Home" I love my people" I'll close with that.
Love,Judy
*****We need your help!*****
Tony Olsen is creating a video of Tami and needs your pictures of her. Here is the way to send them to him:
1: Log on to https://ftp2.forthgear.com/
Username: tami
Password: yesican
Tony Olsen is creating a video of Tami and needs your pictures of her. Here is the way to send them to him:
1: Log on to https://ftp2.forthgear.com/
Username: tami
Password: yesican
Monday, June 11, 2012
Good Evening all:
I just received Tami's e-mail so I thought I'd share a few things for those who want to know how life is going for her. Tami talked to Sheila this morning and Sheila set up her pre-op testing for June 19th at 9:40 A.M. So that will probably mean that Tami won't come home until her surgery on the 26th......At least that's where things stand as of now......we'll see if things change.
Tami moved back down to the big room downstairs after some drama and someone leaving today. She had to wash sheets, vacuum, and leave it the way she found the room before she could move.....that kept her busy today.
Nate Hardy from Farmington comers in this week with his wife Natalie....then they are going to tour Mass. before his surgery next week. Tami is looking forward to meeting them. She said "Here we live 5 miles from them and I'll be meeting them in Worcester, Mass." They live in our cousin, Lynette Bingham's ward.
She said, "Friday is a Benefit Run/walk for cancer....24 hours of straight walk or run...I'm looking forward to that and Deb said she'll put me to work setting it all up and participating. That just might be as close as I get to marathon this year....I hope not....but this big delay is not going to help"
It looks like things are going to move forward
Love,
Judy
I just received Tami's e-mail so I thought I'd share a few things for those who want to know how life is going for her. Tami talked to Sheila this morning and Sheila set up her pre-op testing for June 19th at 9:40 A.M. So that will probably mean that Tami won't come home until her surgery on the 26th......At least that's where things stand as of now......we'll see if things change.
Tami moved back down to the big room downstairs after some drama and someone leaving today. She had to wash sheets, vacuum, and leave it the way she found the room before she could move.....that kept her busy today.
Nate Hardy from Farmington comers in this week with his wife Natalie....then they are going to tour Mass. before his surgery next week. Tami is looking forward to meeting them. She said "Here we live 5 miles from them and I'll be meeting them in Worcester, Mass." They live in our cousin, Lynette Bingham's ward.
She said, "Friday is a Benefit Run/walk for cancer....24 hours of straight walk or run...I'm looking forward to that and Deb said she'll put me to work setting it all up and participating. That just might be as close as I get to marathon this year....I hope not....but this big delay is not going to help"
It looks like things are going to move forward
Love,
Judy
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Hi Team Tami,
Tami wrote a nice journal entry for today about getting up early to move slowly so she could make it to her meetings. She sat next to Dr. Lambert again for all three meetings. She enjoyed renewing friendships at the ward and listening to the lessons. She said she and Dr. Lambert only try to mouth the words because neither one of them can carry a tune....I thought that was cute.
Right now it looks as though she may have the surgery on June 26th.....unless of course there is a cancellation which Dr. Lambert says almost never happens.....I did notice she's still hoping though.
After Church Tami and Dr. Lambert visited for awhile and Dr. Lambert told Tami where some nice, safe trails are for walking or running....Tami scoped them out today with hopes that she might be able to use them. She also said the Lodge was having ice cream at 8:30 so she wanted to get back to rub shoulders with the Hope Club. She said another couple arrived at the Hope Lodge and she said she's never heard the word HOPE used more often. "Everybody's so DIFFERENT. So many unknowns...but I receive much strength from so many here as I embrace my new Club....I've loved staying here and getting to meet so many wonderful people".
This week she is going to get her pre-testing done for surgery and Abby's two daughters have asked her to dinner........She said Avy raised Earth Angels.
She said she had a full day and ended with "My days are full and I find myself being just as busy here as I was back home...It's just filled up differently"
Love,
Judy
Tami wrote a nice journal entry for today about getting up early to move slowly so she could make it to her meetings. She sat next to Dr. Lambert again for all three meetings. She enjoyed renewing friendships at the ward and listening to the lessons. She said she and Dr. Lambert only try to mouth the words because neither one of them can carry a tune....I thought that was cute.
Right now it looks as though she may have the surgery on June 26th.....unless of course there is a cancellation which Dr. Lambert says almost never happens.....I did notice she's still hoping though.
After Church Tami and Dr. Lambert visited for awhile and Dr. Lambert told Tami where some nice, safe trails are for walking or running....Tami scoped them out today with hopes that she might be able to use them. She also said the Lodge was having ice cream at 8:30 so she wanted to get back to rub shoulders with the Hope Club. She said another couple arrived at the Hope Lodge and she said she's never heard the word HOPE used more often. "Everybody's so DIFFERENT. So many unknowns...but I receive much strength from so many here as I embrace my new Club....I've loved staying here and getting to meet so many wonderful people".
This week she is going to get her pre-testing done for surgery and Abby's two daughters have asked her to dinner........She said Avy raised Earth Angels.
She said she had a full day and ended with "My days are full and I find myself being just as busy here as I was back home...It's just filled up differently"
Love,
Judy
Saturday, June 9, 2012
Hi again.....
Tami had an interesting day today.....after she was up and going, Pearla.....the 18 year old who has a 15 mo old daughter.....asked Tami if she would do her a favor....She has had a hard life and is all alone at the Hope Lodge while her boyfriend is in the hospital. Her daughter is back at her home in Holyoke with the little girls dad. She will have a custody battle in August and she missed her little girl really bad. I'm sure Tami has befriended her so she felt she could ask......she said her dad was supposed to come but she said her dad never did what he said he'd do. Any way, Tami made the 1 and 1/2 hour trip one way to take Pearla to her daughter. So when I spoke with Tami she was just getting back to the Lodge. She said it had been a crazy day....but then I'm sure Tami was glad she could help someone out there.
She's hoping there'll be a cancellation in the operating room (fingers crossed) so perhaps she could squeeze in early. She's hoping to go to church tomorrow. Dr. Lambert asked her if she was going to be there. Dr. Lambert was flying in from Georgia tomorrow but she told Tami she was going to try to make it to church. Anyway, Tami is living and loving those there at the Lodge.....always a true and caring person. I always felt that loving people was a gift Tami brought with her. She treats others as the Savior would and loves them unconditionally. I guess we could all do better at that.
Love, Judy
Tami had an interesting day today.....after she was up and going, Pearla.....the 18 year old who has a 15 mo old daughter.....asked Tami if she would do her a favor....She has had a hard life and is all alone at the Hope Lodge while her boyfriend is in the hospital. Her daughter is back at her home in Holyoke with the little girls dad. She will have a custody battle in August and she missed her little girl really bad. I'm sure Tami has befriended her so she felt she could ask......she said her dad was supposed to come but she said her dad never did what he said he'd do. Any way, Tami made the 1 and 1/2 hour trip one way to take Pearla to her daughter. So when I spoke with Tami she was just getting back to the Lodge. She said it had been a crazy day....but then I'm sure Tami was glad she could help someone out there.
She's hoping there'll be a cancellation in the operating room (fingers crossed) so perhaps she could squeeze in early. She's hoping to go to church tomorrow. Dr. Lambert asked her if she was going to be there. Dr. Lambert was flying in from Georgia tomorrow but she told Tami she was going to try to make it to church. Anyway, Tami is living and loving those there at the Lodge.....always a true and caring person. I always felt that loving people was a gift Tami brought with her. She treats others as the Savior would and loves them unconditionally. I guess we could all do better at that.
Love, Judy
Friday, June 8, 2012
Hi Team Tami
I just received a short e-mail tonight....it said, "My reticular Activator kicked in today and so I slept in and then visited around the table in the kitchen today with all the Hope Lodge residents." That shouldn't surprise us since she loves to talk to people and find out about their lives,struggles, ups and downs. So today was a rest day after her yo-yo week of ups and downs. I think she needed a recoup day and didn't feel quite as good after her day yesterday.....
Love
Judy
I just received a short e-mail tonight....it said, "My reticular Activator kicked in today and so I slept in and then visited around the table in the kitchen today with all the Hope Lodge residents." That shouldn't surprise us since she loves to talk to people and find out about their lives,struggles, ups and downs. So today was a rest day after her yo-yo week of ups and downs. I think she needed a recoup day and didn't feel quite as good after her day yesterday.....
Love
Judy
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Hi Again....
Tami had a good day, she said,"You'd been proud of me this morning....I'm always thankful when I feel good and today's one of those days....A Feel Good Kind of Day..." She said the financial counselor was only going to work until noon so she said "I high-tailed it up to the hospital at 10:00 Mass Time....that's 8:00 Utah time.....I'm turning into a lil morning lark....A Roo-ster here in Woo-Sta..."
She was quite colorful with her words
She told us that things look like they may be getting set as far as Massachusetts goes but Dr. Lambert probably couldn't operate until the last week of June.....Anyway she wishes it was sooner but she said "I'm turning into a "Doubting Tami" and I'll have to see it to believe it. The Dr. also told her "I've never quite seen anything like what you've experienced."
She says she feels better being there in Massachusetts because she feels like things are moving along and she's not just spinning her wheels. She says she misses her family but I think she feels the need to move on and get this "Big Monster" out of the way so she feels like she might be of good to her family and everyone....she feels like she's no good to anyone right now....just basically hanging on and enduring. The AFAF meeting was good tonight and we all need to move forward and do the best we can.
They moved her to the upstairs room in the Hope Lodge to make room for a bigger family but she said she loved it up there in her cozy room....Her last words were, "Well, getting ready for the big play-off game...I think Miami is going down, just like the Spurs last night. Better hit the hay...Hey maybe I'll hear our "lil bird chirpin up in that room...or singing...In the Leafy Tree Tops the Birds sings Good Morning....I'll wake early and listen...you sneaky 'lil................... That's our Tami....we Love her
Judy
Tami had a good day, she said,"You'd been proud of me this morning....I'm always thankful when I feel good and today's one of those days....A Feel Good Kind of Day..." She said the financial counselor was only going to work until noon so she said "I high-tailed it up to the hospital at 10:00 Mass Time....that's 8:00 Utah time.....I'm turning into a lil morning lark....A Roo-ster here in Woo-Sta..."
She was quite colorful with her words
She told us that things look like they may be getting set as far as Massachusetts goes but Dr. Lambert probably couldn't operate until the last week of June.....Anyway she wishes it was sooner but she said "I'm turning into a "Doubting Tami" and I'll have to see it to believe it. The Dr. also told her "I've never quite seen anything like what you've experienced."
She says she feels better being there in Massachusetts because she feels like things are moving along and she's not just spinning her wheels. She says she misses her family but I think she feels the need to move on and get this "Big Monster" out of the way so she feels like she might be of good to her family and everyone....she feels like she's no good to anyone right now....just basically hanging on and enduring. The AFAF meeting was good tonight and we all need to move forward and do the best we can.
They moved her to the upstairs room in the Hope Lodge to make room for a bigger family but she said she loved it up there in her cozy room....Her last words were, "Well, getting ready for the big play-off game...I think Miami is going down, just like the Spurs last night. Better hit the hay...Hey maybe I'll hear our "lil bird chirpin up in that room...or singing...In the Leafy Tree Tops the Birds sings Good Morning....I'll wake early and listen...you sneaky 'lil................... That's our Tami....we Love her
Judy
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Hi All.....
I received an e-mail from Tami tonight and thought I'd share her remarks. She says she hasn't felt very well this afternoon and she doesn't know why....she can't figure out what she does different some days to feel worse. She told us she was approved by Mass. Health Standard today but she need to choose a plan under that insurance. She also has to wait for authorization from the insurance company and make sure Dr. Lambert is a provider. Karina has been helping her expedite state approval.
She spent the better part of the day on the phone with State of Utah to cancel Utah State Insurance and Social Security to change her address. She couldn't get an appointment with Dr. Lambert until June 14th because she is out of the office for a few days....All the waiting is hard on her I think. She says she's trying to stay resilient and take information as it comes. Peter was at the Hope Lodge last time we were there and she referred to what he said ...."Don't get too excited about the good news nor too discouraged about the bad news" He and his wife had fought a long battle with liver transplants and rejection....several months worth....so he knew what he was talking about.
She still says things may change at any time so she's trying to keep up her inner fight. and she says, "I just hope I'm doing all the right things" We'll say a prayer for that.
Love ya,
Judy
I received an e-mail from Tami tonight and thought I'd share her remarks. She says she hasn't felt very well this afternoon and she doesn't know why....she can't figure out what she does different some days to feel worse. She told us she was approved by Mass. Health Standard today but she need to choose a plan under that insurance. She also has to wait for authorization from the insurance company and make sure Dr. Lambert is a provider. Karina has been helping her expedite state approval.
She spent the better part of the day on the phone with State of Utah to cancel Utah State Insurance and Social Security to change her address. She couldn't get an appointment with Dr. Lambert until June 14th because she is out of the office for a few days....All the waiting is hard on her I think. She says she's trying to stay resilient and take information as it comes. Peter was at the Hope Lodge last time we were there and she referred to what he said ...."Don't get too excited about the good news nor too discouraged about the bad news" He and his wife had fought a long battle with liver transplants and rejection....several months worth....so he knew what he was talking about.
She still says things may change at any time so she's trying to keep up her inner fight. and she says, "I just hope I'm doing all the right things" We'll say a prayer for that.
Love ya,
Judy
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Hi Everyone....
I just received a short e-mail from Tami.....she had spoken to Dr. Lambert and was told to proceed with trying to get residency to receive Massachusetts insurance. Actually I think it was a voice message that she received and was told to see Kerri Boyd who helped us while we were there in April. Tami prefaced her remarks with.....wait 5 minutes and things will probably change....so it looks like they've decided to reject Utah's offer for payment because it simply isn't enough to cover costs. I think she is a little discouraged about the whole process because it still may take a few weeks.....we really don't know for sure on that one. Tim said she was feeling fairly good today and I'm sure whe's watching the NBA East game tonight. I hope they can fast track her application.
Judy
(Dr. Lambert on the right)
Judy
Monday, June 4, 2012
Hi everyone.....
I had a good talk with Tami this afternoon. She is feeling pretty good and is going forward. She has spoken with the Dr. and several others today and there is still confusion as to which direction she has to go. Dr. Lambert is really trying to help Tami. Tami got to the Hope Lodge about 2:30 this morning and was over to the hospital this afternoon. I was really proud of her!!! She gave Deb, the Hope Lodge Director a big hug for working with her and she is in the room downstairs that she wanted. It's close to the big T.V. downstairs and I'm confident that she's watching the Spurs vs Oklahoma game as we speak. I wish I could be with her but then so does a lot of us.....She enjoys alone time....but I know she'll ber visiting with the others there soon. If I hear anything different tomorrow I'll post it.
Love, Judy
I had a good talk with Tami this afternoon. She is feeling pretty good and is going forward. She has spoken with the Dr. and several others today and there is still confusion as to which direction she has to go. Dr. Lambert is really trying to help Tami. Tami got to the Hope Lodge about 2:30 this morning and was over to the hospital this afternoon. I was really proud of her!!! She gave Deb, the Hope Lodge Director a big hug for working with her and she is in the room downstairs that she wanted. It's close to the big T.V. downstairs and I'm confident that she's watching the Spurs vs Oklahoma game as we speak. I wish I could be with her but then so does a lot of us.....She enjoys alone time....but I know she'll ber visiting with the others there soon. If I hear anything different tomorrow I'll post it.
Love, Judy
Friday, June 1, 2012
Friday, June 1st
Hello Good Buddies...
I was waiting until I had something definitive....but who knows how long that will take....but I'll tell you what we do know. A couple days ago Dr. Lambert from Boston called Tami and left a message that she thought Utah was coming through with the OK for the surgery.....Dr. Lambert said no one had spoken with her directly but that she had heard rumblings that Massachusetts would not accept the rate that Utah had agreed to. At this point we have not heard a definite yeah or nay. Tami feels she needs to just get back there and start the process of being in Massachusetts and see if further paper work can move the process along. As of now, Tami is heading for Boston on Sunday with the hopes of finding more answers and possibly being able to have the surgery, She's going alone for the first week unless she gets there and decides she needs help. Because she knows the people at the Hope Lodge there in Worcester and because the hospital is only 3 miles away, she's venturing out to see what she can find. I told her she needed to e-mail me, or Tim, or give one of us a call and let us know what is going on......anyway, I'll keep you up on what we know....which sometimes is not very much.
Tami said as long as she has her anti-nausea pills and moves slowly and sets when necessary, she believes she'll be all right.....we'll see.........
Judy
Hello Good Buddies...
I was waiting until I had something definitive....but who knows how long that will take....but I'll tell you what we do know. A couple days ago Dr. Lambert from Boston called Tami and left a message that she thought Utah was coming through with the OK for the surgery.....Dr. Lambert said no one had spoken with her directly but that she had heard rumblings that Massachusetts would not accept the rate that Utah had agreed to. At this point we have not heard a definite yeah or nay. Tami feels she needs to just get back there and start the process of being in Massachusetts and see if further paper work can move the process along. As of now, Tami is heading for Boston on Sunday with the hopes of finding more answers and possibly being able to have the surgery, She's going alone for the first week unless she gets there and decides she needs help. Because she knows the people at the Hope Lodge there in Worcester and because the hospital is only 3 miles away, she's venturing out to see what she can find. I told her she needed to e-mail me, or Tim, or give one of us a call and let us know what is going on......anyway, I'll keep you up on what we know....which sometimes is not very much.
Tami said as long as she has her anti-nausea pills and moves slowly and sets when necessary, she believes she'll be all right.....we'll see.........
Judy
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