As I sit here with nothing but joy and thankfulness in my heart I am somewhat quieted and humbled by the Holy Spirit. My lil paws want to run across the keyboard with all the vigor of chasing a squirrel, however my heart is quite, maybe at peace.
Papa Vern's latest scan came back 100% cancer free!!!!!! God has heard our cries and answered our prayers, with healing, grace and mercy.
The last year has been nothing but hard. I think when there was a void in blogging it came from my inability to verbalize what was going on around me and still keep my light hearted wit and charm that I know you have all come to love!!
My prayer today is this.... "Gracious God, I come before you today with a humbled heart. You have continually shown us your mercy and been our source of comfort. I pray that we do not become complacent in you and continually seek you beyond the storm. Thank you for the blessings you continually poor out in abundance, may we be your hands and feet."
Thank you for all the love, support and prayers. The Moore family could not have done this without you, and will not be able to adequately thank each and every one of you for walking with, sometimes carrying us through it all.
Healing is still on the horizon, Papa Vern will continue to go to his swallow therapist and slowly get his strength back. We look forward to the journey ahead, AND I truly feel like Papa Vern knows what it’s like to eat only diet dog food, and much change, good change is in our future!!
Much love,
Harley
Monday, August 2, 2010
Saturday, June 5, 2010
It's summer time in TEXAS!
Fact: Texas had one of the coldest winters in history this past year, and as spring has fallen away the summer heat has set in! Today (June 5) it was 105 at the ballpark in Arlington, my canine senses tell me an extreme winter means an extreme summer to come! The great part about living in TX, it could be 105 today, 80 this evening, and snow tomorrow!
So why all the weather chat? Well these last six months we have been observers of the weather. We didn't make snow angels in February, or hit the lake for Memorial Weekend, we have been watching it change from the inside out. Much like the change in Papa Vern...
These past 6 months I have watched him change to. Change from healthy to sick, strong to weak, confident to uncertain, but one thing that hasn't changed is his unwavering faith. When his body became weak, his faith became strong. And as Papa Vern continues this uphill battle, his army is large and unwavering. Thank you to the Dr. who have been so delicate with the tough conversations, and fierce in treatment plan. Thank you to the prayer warriors that continue on with such diligence and confidence, we couldn't have gotten this far without you!
Today Papa Vern has felt better than he has in months! He is getting his color back and strength back SLOWLY but surely... He is not ready to run a marathon, but walking out to get the mail and morning paper is a great start! We look forward to his continued recovery and continue to PRAY FOR COMPLETE HEALING!
We still have a few more weeks before another PETscan but are taking comfort in these early signs of healing! Like this TX weather, we hope to see many changes in Papa Vern as the summer blazes on!
Only by grace...
Much love,
Harley
So why all the weather chat? Well these last six months we have been observers of the weather. We didn't make snow angels in February, or hit the lake for Memorial Weekend, we have been watching it change from the inside out. Much like the change in Papa Vern...
These past 6 months I have watched him change to. Change from healthy to sick, strong to weak, confident to uncertain, but one thing that hasn't changed is his unwavering faith. When his body became weak, his faith became strong. And as Papa Vern continues this uphill battle, his army is large and unwavering. Thank you to the Dr. who have been so delicate with the tough conversations, and fierce in treatment plan. Thank you to the prayer warriors that continue on with such diligence and confidence, we couldn't have gotten this far without you!
Today Papa Vern has felt better than he has in months! He is getting his color back and strength back SLOWLY but surely... He is not ready to run a marathon, but walking out to get the mail and morning paper is a great start! We look forward to his continued recovery and continue to PRAY FOR COMPLETE HEALING!
We still have a few more weeks before another PETscan but are taking comfort in these early signs of healing! Like this TX weather, we hope to see many changes in Papa Vern as the summer blazes on!
Only by grace...
Much love,
Harley
Monday, May 31, 2010
deliquent blogging....
so i know i have not been blogging like i should. please forgive me. this blog was intended to keep you posted on papa vern's health and efficiently pass along accurate information (with a slightly charming twist!). i wish i could write you tonight and say that we are on a speedy road to recovery and that everything is just wonderful... however, if you aren't aware, dogs are pretty open and honest creatures with little to hide. (i mean we freely poop in our neighbors front yard for all the world to see!)
papa vern has completed his chemo treatments and IS on the road to recovery. while he is no longer receiving treatment, the effects of the chemo and radiation are still pumping through his system. he is still coughing, still weak, still on feeding tubes, and still in good spirits.
i think the last 2 months have been a whirl wind of emotion for papa vern as he welcomed his second grandchild (1st grand daughter) ms. addyx ryan, and major walker turned 5! much to celebrate and count these blessed events! sean and jen also hosted a fundraising night in honor of papa vern out at the barn which he was able to attend. it was such an amazing reunion of old friends and new ones alike, all there to support papa vern on his continued journey.
papa vern is tired of being sick and ready to be himself again. we have a couple more weeks before any follow up appointments. (the last follow-up was positive) i think really he is tired of being stuck at home with just grandma and i! (more so her than me, i am sure!) please continue to pray for complete healing, and for papa vern to get his strength back.
much love,
harley
ps... here are some current pics!
papa vern has completed his chemo treatments and IS on the road to recovery. while he is no longer receiving treatment, the effects of the chemo and radiation are still pumping through his system. he is still coughing, still weak, still on feeding tubes, and still in good spirits.
i think the last 2 months have been a whirl wind of emotion for papa vern as he welcomed his second grandchild (1st grand daughter) ms. addyx ryan, and major walker turned 5! much to celebrate and count these blessed events! sean and jen also hosted a fundraising night in honor of papa vern out at the barn which he was able to attend. it was such an amazing reunion of old friends and new ones alike, all there to support papa vern on his continued journey.
papa vern is tired of being sick and ready to be himself again. we have a couple more weeks before any follow up appointments. (the last follow-up was positive) i think really he is tired of being stuck at home with just grandma and i! (more so her than me, i am sure!) please continue to pray for complete healing, and for papa vern to get his strength back.
much love,
harley
ps... here are some current pics!
Thursday, April 22, 2010
We have our ups and downs...
I have to say this has been a down week in terms of Papa Vern's condition. It seems like as the radiation and chemo continue the cancer gets weakened, but so does Papa Vern. He has lost most of his signature beard, and decided to shave the rest of his head. Since being on the feeding tube Papa Vern has lost about 30 lbs, and a lot of strength. (I too would like to share that I have lost about 8 lbs from Papa Vern and I no longer sharing our daily snack of triscuits and cheese. Oh' how I miss that!! Papa Vern needs to get his swallower back ASAP so I can get something besides this diet dog food!)
This week has been somewhat exhausting. Papa Vern's Dr. advised no chemo this week as he was too weak, however we continued with radiation and fluids. Hopefully we are looking at only 5 more radiation treatments, and possibly the last round of chemo on Tuesday. At that time he will take a month off of treatment, and then have another PET scan taken. Let's just pray there is no cancer anywhere else, as Papa Vern has said he won't go through with all of this again...
Our hope and prayer at this time is that Papa Vern has complete healing and can get his strength back soon.
Thank you for your diligent prayers from those we love, dear friends, co-workers, bloggers and everyone else who has been following Papa Vern's recovery. Its not over yet but there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
We have truly been humbled from this experience and the amount of love and support received is insurmountable. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts!!
Enjoy these pics taken at the chemo center last week and today!!
On a lighter note, we have some very EXCITING news on the horizon! Stay tuned for more!!! :)
Much love,
Harley
This week has been somewhat exhausting. Papa Vern's Dr. advised no chemo this week as he was too weak, however we continued with radiation and fluids. Hopefully we are looking at only 5 more radiation treatments, and possibly the last round of chemo on Tuesday. At that time he will take a month off of treatment, and then have another PET scan taken. Let's just pray there is no cancer anywhere else, as Papa Vern has said he won't go through with all of this again...
Our hope and prayer at this time is that Papa Vern has complete healing and can get his strength back soon.
Thank you for your diligent prayers from those we love, dear friends, co-workers, bloggers and everyone else who has been following Papa Vern's recovery. Its not over yet but there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
We have truly been humbled from this experience and the amount of love and support received is insurmountable. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts!!
Enjoy these pics taken at the chemo center last week and today!!
On a lighter note, we have some very EXCITING news on the horizon! Stay tuned for more!!! :)
Much love,
Harley
Friday, April 9, 2010
Abundent Blessings
Papa Vern and Nana Bebe have been truly blessed in this time of need. While the chemo itself is hard, and the word cancer is tough to swallow, God has poured out his blessings in abundance!
Financial Blessings - God hears our prayers, knows are thoughts and worries of our hearts. Financial struggle through this chemo treatment was a huge burden looming over an already dark situation. God has taken that darkness and shown his light! An Italian feast was prepared as the Lowe's family gathered and through their efforts a HUGE prayer request was answered. What a blessing their financial donations have been! Nana Bebe's office offered photo sessions with the Easter Bunny as a fundraiser for Papa Vern too!
Papa Vern and Nana Bebe can not put into words their thankfulness for the generosity that has been bestowed upon them. The love and support is beyond anything they could have ever imagined and they are truly grateful!
Please continue to pray for strength, healing and comfort.
Much love,
Harley
Financial Blessings - God hears our prayers, knows are thoughts and worries of our hearts. Financial struggle through this chemo treatment was a huge burden looming over an already dark situation. God has taken that darkness and shown his light! An Italian feast was prepared as the Lowe's family gathered and through their efforts a HUGE prayer request was answered. What a blessing their financial donations have been! Nana Bebe's office offered photo sessions with the Easter Bunny as a fundraiser for Papa Vern too!
Papa Vern and Nana Bebe can not put into words their thankfulness for the generosity that has been bestowed upon them. The love and support is beyond anything they could have ever imagined and they are truly grateful!
Please continue to pray for strength, healing and comfort.
Much love,
Harley
chemo looks like this!
Ready for round 2 of chemo....
Comfort during round 3....
The side effects of chemo are starting to wear on Papa Vern. Tues was supposed to be Round 4 but the Dr. decided to let Papa Vern heal for a week. Papa Vern has had a feeding tube placed in his stomach in order to get his nutrients. Eating and talking are becoming more strained.
Truly its time to just rest and let the chemo and radiation do all the work. Papa Vern has taken a medical leave from work. This was a very humbling and hard transition for Papa Vern to make, but we are grateful he made the decision instead of us or the Dr. making it for him.
Papa Vern and I spend our days napping and dilidaddling around the house. I am totally cool with this life style but its hard on Papa Vern. He is continually reminded that this is just a time in his life, and will not become his life though your continued cards, calls, TEXT, love and prayers!
Please continue to pray for healing!
Much love,
Harley
Comfort during round 3....
The side effects of chemo are starting to wear on Papa Vern. Tues was supposed to be Round 4 but the Dr. decided to let Papa Vern heal for a week. Papa Vern has had a feeding tube placed in his stomach in order to get his nutrients. Eating and talking are becoming more strained.
Truly its time to just rest and let the chemo and radiation do all the work. Papa Vern has taken a medical leave from work. This was a very humbling and hard transition for Papa Vern to make, but we are grateful he made the decision instead of us or the Dr. making it for him.
Papa Vern and I spend our days napping and dilidaddling around the house. I am totally cool with this life style but its hard on Papa Vern. He is continually reminded that this is just a time in his life, and will not become his life though your continued cards, calls, TEXT, love and prayers!
Please continue to pray for healing!
Much love,
Harley
Sunday, March 21, 2010
A quick update...
So I don't have much to say... Papa Vern is neither feeling good or horrible. He is working when he can and resting when he can't. Last week was rough and pretty scary. Papa Vern was sick, with massive migraines. The doctors had his brain scanned for possible tumors but nothing was found.
Our prayer right now is that he can just be comfortable. We know the next 2 months will be tough treatment wise, and certain side effects are inevitable, but our prayer is that he can just be comfortable.
I also want to recognize his Lowes family in all that they are doing to support Papa Vern. Not only is he allowed to work when he can and take off on a moments notice, but his co-workers have rallied and made the most wonderful cards, and sent the sweetest words of encouragement. They are also hosting a fundraising dinner in his honor to help Papa Vern financially through this tough time. In no way would Papa Vern have ever asked for any help, they are simply doing this because they care. I know I have said it once, but truly if you need some home improvement done, please shop at Lowes. Lowes truly cares about their employees and intern the employees truly care about each other, and their customers.
I truly feel that God's light is shinning through Papa Vern. He is continual inspiration to those who get the chance to be around him right now. He is diligent and faithful, God IS in control, and God IS good all the time.
Please continue to pray faithfully, many blessings and...
Much love,
Harley
Our prayer right now is that he can just be comfortable. We know the next 2 months will be tough treatment wise, and certain side effects are inevitable, but our prayer is that he can just be comfortable.
I also want to recognize his Lowes family in all that they are doing to support Papa Vern. Not only is he allowed to work when he can and take off on a moments notice, but his co-workers have rallied and made the most wonderful cards, and sent the sweetest words of encouragement. They are also hosting a fundraising dinner in his honor to help Papa Vern financially through this tough time. In no way would Papa Vern have ever asked for any help, they are simply doing this because they care. I know I have said it once, but truly if you need some home improvement done, please shop at Lowes. Lowes truly cares about their employees and intern the employees truly care about each other, and their customers.
I truly feel that God's light is shinning through Papa Vern. He is continual inspiration to those who get the chance to be around him right now. He is diligent and faithful, God IS in control, and God IS good all the time.
Please continue to pray faithfully, many blessings and...
Much love,
Harley
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
I received my official servement of lawsuit...
Per the terms of The Agreement entered in by said blogger and blog reader. The blogger is being sued for breach of contract under the terms and conditions of negligence to maintain a timely and entertaining blog, while leaving the general public in a state that would cause immediate and irreparable damage due to constant worry.
Letter from Harley's attorney:
Dear Blog Readers,
I want to formally apologize for my clients negligent behavior. The lack of information you have been receiving is unacceptable and for that we are deeply sorry. We want to ensure you that The Agreement entered into by both parties will continue to be upheld in a timely fashion. Blogger is aware that the information he is privy to is not to be kept confidential, and is for the good of the general public. Please accept this as our formal apology as we hope to continue this relationship. Blogger wants to ensure the general public that this will not happen again in hopes to continue in an amicable relationship.
Best Regards,
Barrett Black Lab
Canine Attorney of Law
PR Relations
Never know when you are going to need a great attorney!! Little did y'all know I had such a shark in my back pocket! I understand your worry about Papa Vern and want to apologize personally for not updating like I should.
First and foremost I want to THANK YOU for the prayers. Your faithfulness has already brought healing and comfort. I have to tell you at Papa Vern's first radiation treatment the fear and anxiety of the unknown began to settle in and brought a since of panic to Papa Vern. As he sat there hooked up to weird machines, breathing out of this new tube in his throat about to let the panic settle in... he thought of all of you praying for him and was instantly at peace. We know that God is in control with a purpose and a plan. He is fully driving us down this road even though our GPS has no clue where it is going... I am sure the final stop is in God's abundant grace and we are all going to get some yummy glory burgers (not diet dog food!) at the next gas station, but until than God said he's not pulling this car over until we get there!
Papa Vern received his results from the scan they run to check for cancer anywhere else in the body and the scan came back NEGATIVE! Hallelujah, Praise Jesus, AMEN!! We now now that we are fighting a central group of cells that has not spread to any other organ at this time. The triple treatment going right now consist of 2 types of chemo and daily radiation. The radiation and 1st type of chemo are attacking the centralized cancer. The 2nd type of cancer is killing all abnormal cells in the body in hopes of preventing any spreading.
Papa Vern is doing great right now! He is eating bland and soft foods, and resting when he needs to. We are very proud of all that he has accomplished and ask for your continued prayers in the next 8 weeks of treatment!
Much love,
Harley
Letter from Harley's attorney:
Dear Blog Readers,
I want to formally apologize for my clients negligent behavior. The lack of information you have been receiving is unacceptable and for that we are deeply sorry. We want to ensure you that The Agreement entered into by both parties will continue to be upheld in a timely fashion. Blogger is aware that the information he is privy to is not to be kept confidential, and is for the good of the general public. Please accept this as our formal apology as we hope to continue this relationship. Blogger wants to ensure the general public that this will not happen again in hopes to continue in an amicable relationship.
Best Regards,
Barrett Black Lab
Canine Attorney of Law
PR Relations
Never know when you are going to need a great attorney!! Little did y'all know I had such a shark in my back pocket! I understand your worry about Papa Vern and want to apologize personally for not updating like I should.
First and foremost I want to THANK YOU for the prayers. Your faithfulness has already brought healing and comfort. I have to tell you at Papa Vern's first radiation treatment the fear and anxiety of the unknown began to settle in and brought a since of panic to Papa Vern. As he sat there hooked up to weird machines, breathing out of this new tube in his throat about to let the panic settle in... he thought of all of you praying for him and was instantly at peace. We know that God is in control with a purpose and a plan. He is fully driving us down this road even though our GPS has no clue where it is going... I am sure the final stop is in God's abundant grace and we are all going to get some yummy glory burgers (not diet dog food!) at the next gas station, but until than God said he's not pulling this car over until we get there!
Papa Vern received his results from the scan they run to check for cancer anywhere else in the body and the scan came back NEGATIVE! Hallelujah, Praise Jesus, AMEN!! We now now that we are fighting a central group of cells that has not spread to any other organ at this time. The triple treatment going right now consist of 2 types of chemo and daily radiation. The radiation and 1st type of chemo are attacking the centralized cancer. The 2nd type of cancer is killing all abnormal cells in the body in hopes of preventing any spreading.
Papa Vern is doing great right now! He is eating bland and soft foods, and resting when he needs to. We are very proud of all that he has accomplished and ask for your continued prayers in the next 8 weeks of treatment!
Much love,
Harley
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Welcome HOME Papa Vern
GREAT GREAT NEWS!! Papa Vern came home today!! He didn't bring home non-diet dog food, but I can deal with that at this time... He did bring home a great smile and lots of energy. I think the hospital was making him go stir crazy!! We took a nap today and had some neighbors drop by! Feel free to come over, however I will be sniff testing everyone at the door! Should I not recognize you I will bark at you like crazy, and possibly show my teeth, don't think this 15 lbs can't do some damage! After all I am his official body gaurd/blogger!
Once you have been screened at the door, feel free to have a seat, some iced tea and chat! Papa Vern sounds great, and looks great too! He has lost a little weight, they must have fed him diet dog food in hospital... But other than that we are in great spirits!
While the next 8 weeks of chemo might be a long road, Papa Vern is ready to start the trip! We are ready to put all this behind us and move forward with our lives!
God has already answered so many of our prays. We continue to ask for his strength, healing and comfort, while we glorify him!
To God be the Glory, forever and ever, AMEN!
Much love,
Harley
Once you have been screened at the door, feel free to have a seat, some iced tea and chat! Papa Vern sounds great, and looks great too! He has lost a little weight, they must have fed him diet dog food in hospital... But other than that we are in great spirits!
While the next 8 weeks of chemo might be a long road, Papa Vern is ready to start the trip! We are ready to put all this behind us and move forward with our lives!
God has already answered so many of our prays. We continue to ask for his strength, healing and comfort, while we glorify him!
To God be the Glory, forever and ever, AMEN!
Much love,
Harley
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Update
Papa Vern is now out of ICU and in a normal room. He is allowed to have visitors however speaking is difficult and he is catching up on some much needed rest. As always we appreciate the love and support, but we would like to ask all visitors to please hold off at this time. The daily influx of cards is so comforting and we greatly appreciate the messages and prayers.
Instead of trying to come out to see Papa Vern tomorrow, head out to church and then lunch with the family, take a nap and enjoy your Sunday! We are all consistently on the GO GO GO, and I want to challenge everyone to "Be still and know" that God is God. Sometimes its hard to hear God's voice if we don't take the time to listen.
Please continue to pray without ceasing!
1. Pray that the trach opens up the airways and stays uninfected.
2. Papa Vern will quickly adapt to the changes that are fast approaching.
3. Comfort from the side effects of chemo and radiation, a sense of peace
4. As always complete healing, the Dr.'s we have are great, but are only God's tools in his essential plan.
Much love,
Harley
Instead of trying to come out to see Papa Vern tomorrow, head out to church and then lunch with the family, take a nap and enjoy your Sunday! We are all consistently on the GO GO GO, and I want to challenge everyone to "Be still and know" that God is God. Sometimes its hard to hear God's voice if we don't take the time to listen.
Please continue to pray without ceasing!
1. Pray that the trach opens up the airways and stays uninfected.
2. Papa Vern will quickly adapt to the changes that are fast approaching.
3. Comfort from the side effects of chemo and radiation, a sense of peace
4. As always complete healing, the Dr.'s we have are great, but are only God's tools in his essential plan.
Much love,
Harley
Friday, February 26, 2010
The Real Grey's Anatomy
So as we have established before, I am not a Dr. However, I have watched my fair share of Grey's Anatomy. Let me set up the scene for you, the part of Dr. McDreamy will be played by myself Harley, and the beautiful Katherine Heigel will continue to play Izzy. (We are talking Grey's Anatomy, season 1 with the original cast and back to the good ol' days!)
Set scene: Papa Vern and Nana Bebe show up to oncology center for an x-ray. Papa Vern is having a really hard time breathing so he directs them to Seattle Grace Hospital (aka, Lewisville Medical Center). Papa Vern needs to have an immediate tracheotomy done! (stage directions: in comes Dr. McDreamy, dramatic music playing in the background) Just as Papa Vern struggles to take his last struggling breath, I perform an emergency tracheotomy right there in the ER clinic and save the day! (stage directions: Izzy continues to look gorgeous in her scrubs and surgery mask.)
While it might not have 100% gone down that way, it was something pretty close... Papa Vern had an emergency tracheotomy put in today. While this was unexpected, and painful procedure, we think he will be much better off with the trach. Breathing should be less strained and eventually more comfortable. He is in ICU tonight, and possibly through the weekend, he will be in the hospital for the next 5 days or so. Hopefully not in ICU this whole time, but we do not know at this time.
This procedure did delay the start of chemo and radiation by at least one week. Once we see how the trach is healing we will have a more definitive schedule back in place. Results from the pepscan should be in next week. This test determined if there are anymore active cancer cells in the body.
Please continue to pray faithfully. We are all tired and a little on edge, but doing as well as expected. The love and support is amazing and we truly appreciate all you have been doing.
Much love,
Harley
Set scene: Papa Vern and Nana Bebe show up to oncology center for an x-ray. Papa Vern is having a really hard time breathing so he directs them to Seattle Grace Hospital (aka, Lewisville Medical Center). Papa Vern needs to have an immediate tracheotomy done! (stage directions: in comes Dr. McDreamy, dramatic music playing in the background) Just as Papa Vern struggles to take his last struggling breath, I perform an emergency tracheotomy right there in the ER clinic and save the day! (stage directions: Izzy continues to look gorgeous in her scrubs and surgery mask.)
While it might not have 100% gone down that way, it was something pretty close... Papa Vern had an emergency tracheotomy put in today. While this was unexpected, and painful procedure, we think he will be much better off with the trach. Breathing should be less strained and eventually more comfortable. He is in ICU tonight, and possibly through the weekend, he will be in the hospital for the next 5 days or so. Hopefully not in ICU this whole time, but we do not know at this time.
This procedure did delay the start of chemo and radiation by at least one week. Once we see how the trach is healing we will have a more definitive schedule back in place. Results from the pepscan should be in next week. This test determined if there are anymore active cancer cells in the body.
Please continue to pray faithfully. We are all tired and a little on edge, but doing as well as expected. The love and support is amazing and we truly appreciate all you have been doing.
Much love,
Harley
Monday, February 15, 2010
Monday, February 8, 2010
Treatment Plans...
For the Cancer...
From dr. appt. 2/5 - Papa Vern will start chemo on 2/22, same day as radiation. He will have two different type of drugs. One will be given once a week every Monday. This drug is used to weaken the outside of the cancer cells. The other is a small continuous infusion daily (mon-fri) by a small pack that he will wear. They will put it on on Mondays and take off on Friday. This is to weaken the inside cancer cells. Both together will make the radiation more effective in killing the cells. If the cancer is any where else in his body, the chemo will attack those cells also. He will need to go to hospital soon for them to put in the port (like Nana Bebe had), this is just an outpatient procedure.
When he goes in daily for radiation, they are also prepared to give him some IVs of fluids, because it is so important to keep him hydrated and flush the chemicals out. If he doesn't need fluids, good, but if he does they have it all planned in.
For the soul...
A daily dose of prayers will be required from everyone reading my blog. We are to pray continually and rejoice often. Funny e-mails and jokes will be administered weekly, laughter heals the spirit and lifts the soul! I will do my part daily and ensure that I am consistently snuggled at his feet, and will not verbalize my disdain for DIET dog food! (I said verbalize my disdain, I will continue to blog about it until one of you gets the point and clue's in the rest of the human population!)
Worrying is not allowed or even discussed. Do not worry is a command by God that we too often forget. Please see Matthew 6:25-34 for further detail and explanation! Worrying is a faithless waste of time, for the Lord provides our DAILY bread, what we need for the day, not tomorrow, not yesterday, but he provides what we need on a DAILY basis. We overcome worry with Faith:
1. Prayer - Pray without ceasing, rejoice in everything
2. Remind yourself of God's promises as Christians and his children
3. Remind yourself of God's history: He calmed the seas, shut the mouths of lions, protected men from the fire, brought down city walls, stopped the sun from shinning, healed the sick, made the lame walk and the blind see... I could go on and on, but I hope you get the point! (If not please see your bible...)
"Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?" - Matthew 6:27
Much love,
Harley
From dr. appt. 2/5 - Papa Vern will start chemo on 2/22, same day as radiation. He will have two different type of drugs. One will be given once a week every Monday. This drug is used to weaken the outside of the cancer cells. The other is a small continuous infusion daily (mon-fri) by a small pack that he will wear. They will put it on on Mondays and take off on Friday. This is to weaken the inside cancer cells. Both together will make the radiation more effective in killing the cells. If the cancer is any where else in his body, the chemo will attack those cells also. He will need to go to hospital soon for them to put in the port (like Nana Bebe had), this is just an outpatient procedure.
When he goes in daily for radiation, they are also prepared to give him some IVs of fluids, because it is so important to keep him hydrated and flush the chemicals out. If he doesn't need fluids, good, but if he does they have it all planned in.
For the soul...
A daily dose of prayers will be required from everyone reading my blog. We are to pray continually and rejoice often. Funny e-mails and jokes will be administered weekly, laughter heals the spirit and lifts the soul! I will do my part daily and ensure that I am consistently snuggled at his feet, and will not verbalize my disdain for DIET dog food! (I said verbalize my disdain, I will continue to blog about it until one of you gets the point and clue's in the rest of the human population!)
Worrying is not allowed or even discussed. Do not worry is a command by God that we too often forget. Please see Matthew 6:25-34 for further detail and explanation! Worrying is a faithless waste of time, for the Lord provides our DAILY bread, what we need for the day, not tomorrow, not yesterday, but he provides what we need on a DAILY basis. We overcome worry with Faith:
1. Prayer - Pray without ceasing, rejoice in everything
2. Remind yourself of God's promises as Christians and his children
3. Remind yourself of God's history: He calmed the seas, shut the mouths of lions, protected men from the fire, brought down city walls, stopped the sun from shinning, healed the sick, made the lame walk and the blind see... I could go on and on, but I hope you get the point! (If not please see your bible...)
"Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?" - Matthew 6:27
Much love,
Harley
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Never let your circumstance determine the presence of God
I really think I should consider a job in the medical profession! I told everyone WEEKS ago that Papa Vern has Stage 4 cancer, and everyone said I was being a debbie downer, in my defense... I'm not a downer, I am a realist. And truth be told, the realist in me is very frustrated. I am frustrated because I feel like everything is taking too long... Papa Vern was diagnosed in January, and its now February and we are just finding out the stage and getting a treatment plan together... Yes, I should become a dr. based on my ability to google and webmd faster than any dr. thus far has come up with answers...
Papa Vern has a dr. appointment with radiation oncologist, Dr. Elhani tomorrow. Radiation should last 7-8 weeks and will be done simultaneously with chemotherapy. Side effects from the radiation will include a breathing tube, and probably feeding tube as well. These are not permanent, but more of an inconvenience. (I guess a feeding tube makes DIET dog food seem not that bad!) It is also going to be hard for Papa Vern to talk in the next couple of weeks. If I had thumbs, I would teach him to text... Better leave that to the humans... If you don't have Papa Vern's cell phone number, feel free to contact Nana Bebe, Sean or Amanda to get the number and send him some love! We are also accepting all forms of cards, scripture, jokes and other inspirational material...
Chemo & Radiation will be done at the Texas Oncology Center in Lewisville, same place that Nana Bebe went to. The staff there is very friendly, Nana Bebe and Papa Vern feel comfortable using them again.
A chest scan and blood work still need to be taken to determine if the cancer is centrally located or has spread. Surgery is a last resort. The dr. thinks that with the chemo and radiation all tumors should be taken care of, but only time will tell.
Things to pray for:
1. For the doctors to work swiftly and accurately
2. Minimal side effects to chemo and radiation
3. Cancer is centrally located and will be knocked out completely for total healing
4. Papa Vern and Nana Bebe's spirits, that they will continue to be comforted and find peace
5. Lowes has told Papa Vern not to worry about his job, however its still a concern. Please pray for financial peace through this time.
Papa Vern has been a loyal employee to Lowes for many years now and is a value to them. We are thankful that they are truly being understanding and accommodating. Should you have any home improvement needs, shop at Lowes. Let's support them while they support Papa Vern.
In the book of Genesis, the Lord was with Joseph through adversity after adversity. I have no doubt that the Lord is with Papa Vern through each step of the healing process, and will continue to be with him through adversity.
"Never let your circumstance determine the presence of God." -Chris Plekenpol, author of Faith in the Fog of War
Much Love,
Harley
Papa Vern has a dr. appointment with radiation oncologist, Dr. Elhani tomorrow. Radiation should last 7-8 weeks and will be done simultaneously with chemotherapy. Side effects from the radiation will include a breathing tube, and probably feeding tube as well. These are not permanent, but more of an inconvenience. (I guess a feeding tube makes DIET dog food seem not that bad!) It is also going to be hard for Papa Vern to talk in the next couple of weeks. If I had thumbs, I would teach him to text... Better leave that to the humans... If you don't have Papa Vern's cell phone number, feel free to contact Nana Bebe, Sean or Amanda to get the number and send him some love! We are also accepting all forms of cards, scripture, jokes and other inspirational material...
Chemo & Radiation will be done at the Texas Oncology Center in Lewisville, same place that Nana Bebe went to. The staff there is very friendly, Nana Bebe and Papa Vern feel comfortable using them again.
A chest scan and blood work still need to be taken to determine if the cancer is centrally located or has spread. Surgery is a last resort. The dr. thinks that with the chemo and radiation all tumors should be taken care of, but only time will tell.
Things to pray for:
1. For the doctors to work swiftly and accurately
2. Minimal side effects to chemo and radiation
3. Cancer is centrally located and will be knocked out completely for total healing
4. Papa Vern and Nana Bebe's spirits, that they will continue to be comforted and find peace
5. Lowes has told Papa Vern not to worry about his job, however its still a concern. Please pray for financial peace through this time.
Papa Vern has been a loyal employee to Lowes for many years now and is a value to them. We are thankful that they are truly being understanding and accommodating. Should you have any home improvement needs, shop at Lowes. Let's support them while they support Papa Vern.
In the book of Genesis, the Lord was with Joseph through adversity after adversity. I have no doubt that the Lord is with Papa Vern through each step of the healing process, and will continue to be with him through adversity.
"Never let your circumstance determine the presence of God." -Chris Plekenpol, author of Faith in the Fog of War
Much Love,
Harley
Friday, January 29, 2010
Forgot 1 more thing!
I can't believe I forgot this in my 1st blog! Probably all the ranting I did threw my focus off and I apologize...
We have continually been praying that God's glory will shine through all of this and work in all of our hearts and lives... God has already prevailed in this!
A good friend called tonight just to check on Papa Vern as he is very near and dear to her heart. We talked about loosing sleep over the situation and being in constant worry... These are concerns we all feel but then she said the most amazing thing! See my friend is getting married this spring and she said "ya know, my fiance and I pray separately about our own things, but its always on our own. We don't really pray together. But since all of this has come about we have started praying out loud together for Papa Vern."
How amazing is that! We are so blessed that through adversity this couple has come together and done something they have never really done that is so glorifying to God! We pray that this becomes a part of their daily lives, not only prayer for Papa Vern, but for each other and the life that they are building together. Each night I listen as Nana Bebe and Papa Vern pray for each other, and their marriage, their kids, and the trials ahead of them. God is our foundation and our strength, whatever comes our way has come through him first. We are ready to pray through this, may God continued to be glorified!
Much love,
Harley
We have continually been praying that God's glory will shine through all of this and work in all of our hearts and lives... God has already prevailed in this!
A good friend called tonight just to check on Papa Vern as he is very near and dear to her heart. We talked about loosing sleep over the situation and being in constant worry... These are concerns we all feel but then she said the most amazing thing! See my friend is getting married this spring and she said "ya know, my fiance and I pray separately about our own things, but its always on our own. We don't really pray together. But since all of this has come about we have started praying out loud together for Papa Vern."
How amazing is that! We are so blessed that through adversity this couple has come together and done something they have never really done that is so glorifying to God! We pray that this becomes a part of their daily lives, not only prayer for Papa Vern, but for each other and the life that they are building together. Each night I listen as Nana Bebe and Papa Vern pray for each other, and their marriage, their kids, and the trials ahead of them. God is our foundation and our strength, whatever comes our way has come through him first. We are ready to pray through this, may God continued to be glorified!
Much love,
Harley
Who does this guy think he is?!?!!?
I come to you tonight some what perturbed...
Papa Vern left the house this afternoon about 12:00pm for his follow up doctor appointment, and was supposed to return home promptly to give me a full description of what the doctor said for me to share with all of you!
Instead he goes to the doctor, then has lunch with Nana Bebe, goes to the lake to fish, then goes out to Justin to take some pictures at the barn, then dinner with the whole Moore gang plus the West's at Twisted Roots Burgers! All the while I am pacing in front of the front door eagerly awaiting his return. What does he think he can do, just live his life like normal?!?! What really sets me off is him coming in past dinner time, smiling and smelling of yummy cheeseburgers and curly fries, only to plop some nasty DIET food in my bowl!! For a guy who has had trouble eating the past few weeks, he sure had no problem eating his whole Twisted Root burger and not saving any scraps for the little guy!
I am really going to have to have a talk with him about all this activity and smiling. I mean the guy has cancer for chriss sake and walks around whistling! Even more so he is still yet to miss a day of work! No no, this is just not going to cut it for me, I need him at home where I can monitor him 24/7...
When he FINALLY did come home tonight and give me updated Dr. report, its nothing really new... They used a scope down his throat to grab some more tissue. Nothing was painful but the numbing medicine was really icky (i assume it taste like diet dog food). Test results should be in by Weds. Feb. 3rd. Nana Bebe saw some of the cancer on camera and its a lot of white patches right now, some are filled with blood, but this just means they are irritated. Even though these cells were only taken from the throat, it should give us an accurate idea of what's going on in the voice box too.
As soon as I have more information I will keep you all posted!
Much love,
Harley
Papa Vern left the house this afternoon about 12:00pm for his follow up doctor appointment, and was supposed to return home promptly to give me a full description of what the doctor said for me to share with all of you!
Instead he goes to the doctor, then has lunch with Nana Bebe, goes to the lake to fish, then goes out to Justin to take some pictures at the barn, then dinner with the whole Moore gang plus the West's at Twisted Roots Burgers! All the while I am pacing in front of the front door eagerly awaiting his return. What does he think he can do, just live his life like normal?!?! What really sets me off is him coming in past dinner time, smiling and smelling of yummy cheeseburgers and curly fries, only to plop some nasty DIET food in my bowl!! For a guy who has had trouble eating the past few weeks, he sure had no problem eating his whole Twisted Root burger and not saving any scraps for the little guy!
I am really going to have to have a talk with him about all this activity and smiling. I mean the guy has cancer for chriss sake and walks around whistling! Even more so he is still yet to miss a day of work! No no, this is just not going to cut it for me, I need him at home where I can monitor him 24/7...
When he FINALLY did come home tonight and give me updated Dr. report, its nothing really new... They used a scope down his throat to grab some more tissue. Nothing was painful but the numbing medicine was really icky (i assume it taste like diet dog food). Test results should be in by Weds. Feb. 3rd. Nana Bebe saw some of the cancer on camera and its a lot of white patches right now, some are filled with blood, but this just means they are irritated. Even though these cells were only taken from the throat, it should give us an accurate idea of what's going on in the voice box too.
As soon as I have more information I will keep you all posted!
Much love,
Harley
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Sandwich Stealer!
Let me give you MY side of the story FIRST! I get fed DIET dog food twice a day... Do you like diet anything?! I assume like myself, and every other warm blooded mammal in America, you do not... That being said, you can only imagine the temptation that comes with a double turkey and swiss cheese sandwich, sitting unattended on the kitchen table! Now don't get me wrong, I have manners and class, and would NEVER jump on the table to take anything that was not placed there for me. But today, Grandma Barbara left her sandwich placed on a napkin that just so conveniently hung over the edge of the table. And truth be told... I had no intentions of eating the sandwich, I just wanted to check it out! As I slowly and carefully pulled the napkin closer to me, the whole sandwich came crashing to the floor!
Now I have 2 options, 1 - leave sandwich on the floor for little old lady to unsuccessfully try and clean up on her own and in failed attempts my master, Papa Vern, will end up cleaning the floor himself. or 2 - I can do the right thing and clean it up myself, which just happens to entail consuming ever last crumb and leave the kitchen spotless! Being the concerned dog that I am, I want nothing more than to make Papa Vern's life easier, so I chose option 2!
As Grandma Barbara walks back in the kitchen and begins to rant and rave about how I "stole her sandwich" (the nerve of some people! if she only new...) I catch a smile and chuckle from Papa Vern, and in my little heart I know I have made him happy. Mission accomplished for the day, my Papa is smiling and I have a full belly!
Much Love,
Harley
1st Health Blog
Papa Vern's cancer is currently at the base of his tongue and in his voice box. A biopsy was done last Thrs. through needle injection to extract tissue and determine if the cancer is malignant, and or stage of cancer. Unfortunately not enough tissue was extracted and the test could not give the doctors a clear result. He goes back to the doctor tomorrow for another test that will give them the answers they need.
We appreciate all the love and support. Truly you have no idea how your words of encouragement are uplifting and brighten our days!
Things to pray for:
1. The doctors
2. That God might glorify Himself in amazing ways through all of this
3. Complete healing
4. Strength to live each day to the fullest, and rest when needed
God is good all the time, and we will get through this!
Much Love,
Harley
We appreciate all the love and support. Truly you have no idea how your words of encouragement are uplifting and brighten our days!
Things to pray for:
1. The doctors
2. That God might glorify Himself in amazing ways through all of this
3. Complete healing
4. Strength to live each day to the fullest, and rest when needed
God is good all the time, and we will get through this!
Much Love,
Harley
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
