...also just added today...



Weekly Update on Dad from my sister Sarah (Happy 10th Anniversary!):

I know it's been a week since the last update! Time flies when you are consumed with the end of the school year activities! Today John and I celebrate our 10th anniversary. I've been looking back at the wedding album and scrapbook with fond memories of that day. I'm attaching a sweet picture with dad from that day... and one that Scott took on Mother's day! God blessed me with a father who has shown me unconditional love and taught me about God's love and faithfulness. God also blessed me with an incredible husband who has so many of the same traits that I cherish so much in my dad! Dad has had a good week! We were able to take dad out of Richland on Mother's Day for several hours. Dad seemed to enjoy the 'picnic' at Stuart and Krissy's house. I think it was good for his soul to get him out of the facility and be around grandchildren and family! By the end, he was worn out!

This morning mom had a meeting at Richland with a social worker, nurse, physical therapist and dietitian to discuss dad's progress and stay at the facility! Everyone was in agreement that there has been obvious improvement. The PT reported that dad was functioning at about 25% in balance and mobility. Doesn't seem like much... it really isn't. But, he is gaining strength with each session. He still is having memory issues. All this (muscle & memory deficiencies) are fairly normal for 1) a tumor in the area of the brain where dad's is located and 2) the wear and tear radiation and chemo are doing to his body! The social worker warned mom that insurance companies can decide they will no longer cover the care with as little as a 2 day notice. They don't know if this will happen in our case- but they urged mom to appeal if it does and that they will back her! Dad is not ready to be home under mom's care just yet.... for his sake and her sake! Pray that the insurance doesn't rear it's ugly head at all!

Dad has 7 or 8 more radiation treatments and 2 chemo (rituxan) treatments left. They have been radiating the entire brain. the last few treatments will focus on the primary location of the tumor. Soon after treatment ends, scans will be done to see if the tumor is gone. PLEASE, pray, pray, pray that these scans will come back clean and that this tumor will be no more! Pray that dad will regain strength and memory daily. Pray for mom in any transitions that will come in the near future. Keep praying that she is able to get restful sleep at night!

Isaiah 40:31 says "but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

Until next time- Sarah