24 Hours in Hospital: Prayers Requested

From the Blogmaster:

On Tuesday, December 22, Diana experienced a seizure and was admitted to our local hospital for observation. She was released on Wednesday, after a 24 hour stay. Seizures are an anticipated side effect of the tumor, surgeries, etc. They may also cause additional damage to cognitive functioning. It is too early to know much. Diana and Ian return to Ann Arbor in about 10 days or so for more intensive screening.

Please pray for all in the family during this time: that time with Andrew, Laura and Rachel be enjoyable and savored, that Ian and Diana are strengthened and comforted by family, and that Fiona and Ryan may enjoy some much needed refreshment during the Christmas Holiday.

Please continue to share your prayers and thoughts with them via the blog. Thank you.

Christmas Greetings

Greetings

Some have complained they miss the blog!! Well here goes. We have been busy trying to get ready for Christmas. I feel we don't have enough food, though Fiona and her mother in law have said not to worry we are fine. We will see on Christmas Day!! Andrew and family arrive on Christmas eve and hopefully will be bringing the Christmas Pudding!! Oh yes, and I ordered a 'Yule Log'. Some habits die hard and we still enjoy a good old English Christmas pudding. Di and Fiona made the mince pies and will make the brandy butter soon, I Hope!!! I managed to find some 'crackers' (Not what u eat) so we will have the traditional English Christmas dinner.

Yes, Andrew arrives on Thursday night and I will drive down to Detroit to fetch them all. I don't think we will get them to midnight Mass this year as they will be exhausted!!! I today cleaned the house and Di has told me not to worry as it will get messy when the kids are here and NOT to stress about it!!! Tomorrow will be laundry and making the beds etc. Fiona has been a star again and obtained baby things for us. Mother in law went out and obtained a whole closet of clothes for Rachel so she will be prepared. Even a snow suit!!!

Some have written concerned about the big storm that was on the east coast. We did not receive it - too far north hehehehe. We had grey skies and light snow which did not come to much. We did have some snow last night but it is already melting on the driveway. We must be getting used to the weather here and though it is below freezing we have not felt the cold YET!!!!

Diana is holding up, though on Friday night she had a fall. We had been out to a concert and she was tired on our return. Insisted that she showered and would not go straight to bed!!! Well whilst trying to get her pants off she lost her balance and 'thud' on the bathroom floor. I ran in and helped her up. Saturday she was okay, though on Sunday she complained her left foot was sore. Yesterday it was really sore so off to ER we went and spent the morning there. Her foot was x-rayd but nothing was broken. Bad swelling, bruising and basically a sprained ankle!! So she has a splint on it and told to walk with crutches. She can't handle those so she has a cane and told to rest!!!

Well the cancer doc says walk so what to do. I told her to rest it but do a little walk. Anyhow she cant get the idea of putting the weight on the stick. I have tried to educate her but she says her brain doesn't send the correct message. Anyhow we will get there!!! Just a real bummer as she really wanted to go shopping with the children after Christmas and spoil them. I am taking her for a ride to Mount Pleasant this afternoon to get her out of the house.

Well think that is our news. We both hope and pray you all have a wonderful Christmas. Thanks for your love and support.
Ian

No news

Greetings

It seems ages since I last posted. We have had a good week adjusting to not going for radiation etc. Have had some interesting times in the kitchen!!! Di has not given up the reigns easily. Last night we had a large discussion about what temp the oven should be. She told me 250. But meaning 375. Hence the food was not cooked so shouted at me and told me I should keep asking her as she does not remember. I had been doing that. In the end tears and how difficult it is to remember things. I hugged her and said not to worry, but inside was screaming. Oh well part of the whole journey we are on.

Today has been long day. Arrived at the hospital at 10am and at 4:45 we are still here. The neurosurgeon was happy with things and the way the wounds have healed. Blood work was done. Then the cancer doc was running late!!! He did various tests on Di and did not say too much. He told her she needed to walk more so Midland Mall here we come!!! Then we had more inhalation against the pneumonia and 2 flu shots. So I guess all in all not bad. Just a long day. We are spending the night here. If she feels up to it there is a nice restaurant in Ann Arbor I would like to take her to. It was snowing earlier so will see once we are out of the concrete jungle I will go food shopping tomorrow at Whole foods and then home.

Well think that is all for today. Bless u all. Ian

LA FIN

Hi guys. Well today is the final radiation. Chemo will also stop today until January, when we have been told it will start up again. The body cannot take any more radiation so Di should not have that. The 6 weeks have gone fast and we will now wait to see what happens. She has complained about numbness in her foot and hand so I am not sure what is going on. Today she has said she is feeling tired. We will now work on getting her bowels back to normal!!

Don, your note was very much appreciated. We miss working in the kitchen and hope we can get back to st Andrews in January. Our thoughts and prayers are with y'all.

We will go to Ann Arbor next Tuesday to see the docs and I am thinking of spoiling Di and spending the night. She was exhausted last time we went down so think I will take her to a 'larny' hotel and spoil her.

Barbs, your trip to the game reserve sounded great, especially seeing the big 5 in the same day. Kruger seems a world away. Our temps are now hovering around zero centigrade and a big snow storm is forecast for Wednesday.

I will continue with the blog on a weekly basis to keep you informed.
Hugs to everyone. Ian

Two more days of radiation!

Hello all
I haven't written for a few days as all seems to be well. We have been coming to radiation. Yesterday was a good day and we brought the blogmaster along with us for the ride. Showed her around the cancer center and she met the people that have become like family to us. We then went home a different way which was nice. There was a wintery sun and all enjoyed themselves.
Diana has been as well as can be. 2 more days of radiation and 4 of chemotherapy. We then have a break and then a trip to the hospital for
the 'big' docs to look at her again. I have a confession. people
have written and I have fallen behind with the letters. I think especially of my niece. I am sorry and will get around to it. This week in the mornings I have been helping Diana with Christmas cards etc. I love the American postal service. You can order stamps from home and they are delivered free of charge. Then mail your letter in the post box and it is collected the next day. So easy!!!!
Well if I don't blog tomorrow y'all have a great weekend. We are having the odd snow shower but nothing sticking yet, but it will soon stick!!!!
Ian

Near the end of radiation

Happy Thanksgiving to you. Well we have had the great American holiday and I have to admit that we have grown to love it. It was a nice quiet family day. Friday is known as Black Friday and the stores are open from midnight, or later. Great deals and people flock to the stores to get excellent bargains. We were lazy and resorted to 'armchair shopping' on line. We now have most of the gifts. When we had moved into the house we had given most of our decorations to Fiona. On Saturday afternoon the family came round and put up and decorated the tree for us.
We received good news that Andrew and family will be arriving Christmas eve for 10 days. It will be our first Christmas with Rachel. Di is very excited. It will be wonderful to have all of us together.
Diana is doing well, though she had the big C again. I feel so for her as she struggles and there is nothing I can do but listen to her crying etc. Well we start the radiation and continue with the chemo again, but it finishes next Monday-YEA!!!
Chat with u all tomorrow. Ian

5 down, 1 to go! Thanksgiving

Greetings. No news yesterday as our dear blogmaster ended up in ER with a heart condition. She is okay and back home and continuing with posting. Was a real shock as she is young and fit!!! We just never know when these things happen. Please pray for her.


Last 2 days have been much of the same. Yesterday Diana had some alignment so the day was longer and she was extremely tired afterwards. She wanted to go home and just relax.

By the evening she was OK. Well for the non Americans tomorrow is Thanksgiving and the day is treated much like we would for Christmas, but without presents. In the morning there is a large parade in new York. I enjoy watching it on TV. We will then go for lunch to Ryan's parents and have the traditional turkey and all the trimmings. We may have a snow flurry!!!! We have come to enjoy the time as it is a nice family day, and a good day to give thanks. We all get on well together. Friday no radiation so will be free for 4 days then only 6 treatments left. Di can't wait.
Well you all stay well and have a Happy Thanksgiving.
Shalom Ian.

Carrying On!

Greetings from Mount Pleasant. I trust y'all had a good weekend. I apologize for the spelling in the last entry. I was watching TV as well. Guess my days of double tasking are over. Saturday Di went to the hairdresser as her hair was becoming lumpy he cleaned it up and now she has a short military cut. Suits her. We stayed at home as was misty and murky. I told her to get on our magic carpet and imagine we were on some isolated Scottish island. Yesterday we had to come for radiation, blood tests and to see the doc. Seemed strange doing it on a Sunday but as it is Thanksgiving on Thursday they wanted to get an additional day in. Later in the afternoon we went for coffee with Ryan and Fiona. This morning boring housekeeping. Di has told me that she feels irritable and to "passop" - south African word for "beware"!!!!!
She doesn't know why. She had a bad night and did not get much sleep.
Well radiation is nearly finished so will sign off till tomorrow. Ian

4 Weeks Down, 2 to Go

Morning all
Well inamorata in trouble from y nephew as he said the blog yesterday was the longest he had ever read!!!! He questioned my education and I told him that I went to the finest private school in South Africa!!!
Yesterday went ok however Diana was frustrated and after spilling a glass of water over the coffee table and floor she proceeded to scream. I feel so for her and so helpless. We watched a movie in the evening. This morning she is quiet.
She is having radiation this morning as this afternoon we go to Saginaw for the pneumonia treatment. Sunday morning we have radiation as will have a break over Thanksgiving.
Think that is all the news. Am watching 'Golden Girls' whilst waiting for Di. I do enjoy the show. It reminds me of my mother as she always watched the show.
Have a good weekend.
Ian

Di's Bucket List

In the words of Dame Edna, 'Morning Possums"
I thought I had better put finger to keyboard and get typing before you all harass me with questions!!! I arrived back home at 10.30pm on Tuesday night. Lady Di was asleep and I did not wake her. It appears that she had a good, and busy time whilst I was away. A good friend came round on Monday and Tuesday and put her to work making Christmas cookies and the likes. She enjoyed that and the female interaction. On Saturday morning another friend popped round for coffee and then came and took her to Church on Sunday.

I have noticed being away for 4 days that she has lost more hair and now has lots of 'tufts' of missing hair. It is quite different to the pic on the site. She is due to go to the hairdresser on Saturday as we wanted him to shape it, but instead Di wants it all shaved off so at least it will be uniform. I did offer to cut mine as well in support, but she flatly forbid me!!! I have noticed that she is more forgetful than before, and still walks round the kitchen sometimes trying to find the garbage can. I think it upsets me more than her. I HATE seeing her in this way. She is so determined to beat this and yesterday I was not a good support. I burst into tears and just hugged her. It was so hard to be positive at times. I missed her greatly. Otherwise radiation and chemo continues. Tomorrow we go to a neighbouring town, Saginaw, as she has to have some pneumonia inhalation drug. Midland does not do it. Her white blood cells have dropped and they are concerned about infection and the flu etc. They don't seem to want her to get the flu shot, rather the inhalation drug.


I had a good time away and was on the beach each day, all day. The water was cooler than normal but I still spent many hours wallowing in it. In my next life I think I will live on a deserted island with palm trees etc-bliss!!!!! In the evenings I was too tired and lay round the pool and looked at the stars. Anyhow the days sped by fast and I was back in the cold north. I discovered that the local hospital, where I obtained the last chemo pills had charged $1000 more than Ann Arbor or another major pharmacy. I queried and was told that was the price, and in future I should shop around. SO I said when one is sick you must come home and then sit on the phone calling all the pharmacies looking for the Best deal. I guess if that is the system one has to do it, but we are just not used to that. When you are sick you want to get the medication in you ASAP. My eyes have been opened to how the medical system runs here and I now see why the country desperately needs medical reform. What the reform is I don't know, but we need it. I read about medical tourism and many Americans are going overseas for medical treatment. It is cheaper and just as good and nice surrounds etc. Whilst Di could be in rehab in luxury I could be laying on some beach being fed by some handsome local!!!!! South Africa features on the med travel list - mm interesting!!!! All of this added to my misery. I want the best for my 'turtle dove' and Oh yesterday was just not a good day for me!!!


Today is better, the laundry is on, Di is knitting and I am writing to you all. We both love you all and are thankful for the wonderful friends and family that we have all over the planet. There was the movie, "The Bucket List", so I asked Di yesterday what would she like to do - she thought and after [a while came up with] a trip back to South Africa a cruise down the Rhine and a walk in an English country lane!!!!! Other than the walk she has expensive tastes, but we will have to wait till after the radiation etc and see what the docs say!! Their prognosis last week was not that encouraging.


I have written too much - sorry. Will check in with you all tomorrow. Love you all. Ian & Di

Another view

From the blogmaster: I have enjoyed brief weekly visits with Diana and Ian since their return to Midland. I am AMAZED at the peace that radiates from Diana. She does what she can which includes knitting hats, sewing quilt bindings, polishing the dining room table, looking at family photos and being her usual gracious self. Other then her new haircut, one would not automatically have an impression of a serious disease. Her relaxation is contagious and we enjoy chatting over a cup of tea or coffee. Their St. John's family is keeping them well supplied with dinners and they are grateful as well for the outpouring of thoughts and prayers from new and old friends. I am the most thankful that her condition has not robbed them of who they are -- delightful people. I would not have been surprised if Diana had panic or anxiety reactions when memory lapses arise in conversations -- instead she asks for help and is not embarrassed at all. Please continue to pray for Ian and Diana. Your prayers are being heard and answered. Pray for Fiona as she steps in to a caretaker role this weekend. Pray for Andrew and Laura as they make decisions and plans for visiting. Take time to thank God for his gracious provisions for the Macdougalds on this journey.

Catching Up -- 3 weeks down, 3 to go

The last 2 days have been extremely busy here. On Wednesday, we drove over 300 miles. Di had radiation in the morning and then we drove to Ann Arbor. On arrival at the Cancer Center Di had her blood taken. She is getting good at that and automatically exposes her arm. Then upstairs, register, weighed and waited. We were then escorted down the hall into a room. It is like a hotel with very nice doors, carpeting etc. After a while a doc came and gave Di a very intense examination. In some areas there had been no improvement, but others showed improvement.
Then we had to wait 90 minutes for the famous cancer guru!!!! He was very gracious and spoke with us and was glad with Di's progress. We then left. I suggested a nice meal, but Di was tired so we drove home, arriving 7.40pm. A long day, had some food and she went to bed. Again I cannot give you any news as to what happens next. We continue with the radiation and chemo for another 3 weeks. Then a further trip to Ann Arbor for doc visit plus some treatment for pneumonia as she will be open to that. I asked if we could travel, thinking of a visit to SA.
The big problem is thrombosis and sitting on a plane for so long is not good. She would have to walk around every 2 hours so the doc advised against it. We will listen to the doc!! So life continues. The latest problem is trying to get her medication. She is on a strong dose of chemo and they cannot find it in our local town, so the pharmacy will have to ship it in.
I am going to break for 4 days so the blog will continue on Wednesday.
Do not worry if you don't see a new episode. It is because I am taking a break and Fiona will be moving in to take over the care.
See you next week and have a great weekend. Ian

Diana is doing better than Ian!

Evening all. I am writing this on Tuesday night. Today has been a stressful day for me, but Di has had a good day. Yesterday she helped with the housework and did the most she has done since being under the weather. On Mondays we see the doc and have blood work. Doc was happy with the progress. He has a great wit and we talk more about other matters than cancer. He asked when I had last hugged Di!!! I had to give her a 2 minute hug in front of him and he told me that I needed to hug her more. We were in fits of laughter. There are a lot of misconceptions around how to treat a cancer patient. He was telling me that she was under more threat from the public than they her. One cannot get cancer from her. It helped to relax things. Today I was stressed trying to deal with medical insurance. Too many calls and waiting with music playing in the background. Always get frustrating as a lot of the numbers have a computer that you talk with. Well I have an English/South African accent and that confuses the computer and it keeps asking to repeat the question. In the end I lost it and screamed down the line only to be told by it that if I were finished I could hang up!!!!!! Ggrrrrr. Life used to be much easier. the US needs medical reform desperately!!!! You need a PhD in understanding all of it. Went to a Worship comm meeting tonight which was good as got my mind off things. Well tomorrow we will drive around Michigan for about 6 hours in total for radiation and then down to Ann Arbor for tests and then a visit to the chief cancer doc!!! I will be glad when it is over and we are back home.
Well think that is all. I will write either tomorrow night or Thursday.

One-third of the way through radiation!

I have been asked why I don't blog everyday. Thank you for all the people who faithfully look and follow our lives. I don't blog everyday as there is not much to say!!

We had a good weekend and the weather was brilliant. Sun and warmth. On Saturday I took Di for a drive to one of the small lakes near us, Wixom Lake. We drove around and looked at the houses on the lake shore. Very nice and neat. I would love to live on the water, oh well!! We passed some farmers who were harvesting their sugar beets. I am interested in all the large farming equipment. Yes, me who was the New York boy now enjoys the country and farms. Diana enjoyed the drive. Because her right side sight is extremely limited I have to give her warning when to look on the right so that she can turn her head and focus.

A friend told me about an article in the paper about a Church that uses dogs as evangelism tool. I had said that dogs is a good way to meet people. In New York one goes to the dog park and many relationships have started there thru the dogs!!! So why cant it work in a Church setting!! [follow this link for the AP story http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/us_rel_religion_today ]


Anyhow yesterday went to Church and again a walk in the afternoon. Di has been in good spirits. Today and tomorrow are quiet days with just the usual radiation and chemo. I had better get moving as Monday is housework day!! I crack the whip and Di has the dining table to polish. After that she will be tired. You all have a good day. Ian & Di

More pictures posted from South Africa: scroll down!

Week 2 down

Morning all. I am writing this at 8.52am and the temp outside is 27F!!! I have heard that over the weekend it will be in the 60s. Heat wave!!! Saw 3 deer walk past our fence this morning!! That season again. Yesterday was an uneventful day and all went according to plan.
Diana visited the radiation and then we went for a drive thru to Bay City, the home of Madonna!! Looked at the water and drove back. We watched a movie about 4 English ladies taking an holiday in Italy. Time frame was the early 1900s. A typical Di movie. Slow moving and very British. I don't think the children will enjoy it so will return it.
Today is the dentist to check on her wound. He should be happy as I have had no complaints from lady 'Jane'. Not much planned for the weekend. I hope you will have a great weekend. Ian

It all works out!

What a great day - the sun is shining. Also another reason to be happy is that Di's BIG C problem has been resolved. The last 2 days have been difficult and yesterday afternoon she felt like departing and I felt like running away. She had taken all her meds and nothing happened. Well eventually it all worked last night and this morning she is feeling several pounds lighter and much better. It had been 8 days since any bowel movements. A friend, whom has gone thru radiation and chemo, said it was like a black hole to her. We can totally agree with that. Nothing prepares you for what each day brings. Well today is another day and we move on. Thankfully her tooth seems to be healing nicely as I don't think we could cope with any complications there. The staff etc at the Mount Pleasant Hospital are so nice and going there is like going to see friends. Very friendly and nice homely surroundings. I need to sort the recycling out as the pile in the garage is annoying me!! Well no further news as the last 2 day were rather "sh " !!! [NO PUN INTENDED]
Love you all. Ian

Drive across the English Channel -- another example of British humour

Good day to you all. Well yesterday turned out to be a big day. We had radiation in the morning, then the weekly blood test. That all went well. The dentist in the afternoon took one tooth out as the other one was still ok. Diana was exhausted by the evening but insisted on watching her best show, Top Gear. Real interesting -- she has no interest in cars but loves the programme. It was a funny one with the drivers trying to drive across the English Channel. Was good for her as she laughed. Then bed and she had 10 hours sleep. Now today we are sitting at the family physician to keep him up to date with what is going on. Radiation has now been moved to the afternoon. Evey 30 minutes I am reminded about her constipation. She can tell the doc and he can hear about it all. She has hidden the scarfs and gloves away so that is today's project to look for them. Grrrrrrrrr - frustration. At least her tooth is not hurting so I really pray that will be okay and heal. Well the doc will be calling us soon. U all have a good day.

A Visitor from the East

A very good morning to you all. I heard this morning that on Wednesday we may have rain and snow!!!! NO! Too early. Ws had a big surprise over the weekend. My cousin, from the UK, had a meeting in Chicago this morning so decided fo make a detour to visit us. He arrived early hours on Saturday and left yesterday afternoon. We had a good time talking and wAs special for Diana. Had lots of laughs and gave him a tour of the area, to which he replied, "is that all". Took him to Bay City and showed him the lake, which should be called a sea. Saturday evening the family came around and we had a good time being entertained with stories of life with the rich and famous!!! Di was in good spirits and enjoyed the time. Yesterday I found her in tears and the rest of the day she was extremely quiet. She said all was fine. Not sure if she was exhausted from Saturday or not. This afternoon she will have 2 teeth extracted. I hope the area will heal quickly. I do feel for her as she puts on a brave face. Anyhow watch this space for the report back tomorrow bu all have a great day. Love Ian & Di.

Ian is calm!

Good morning from misty, rainy mid Michigan!!!!!
Took Di to the dentist yesterday. She has a gum infection caused by a bad tooth but they could treat the gum but the tooth may cause further problems down the road in therapy. So, they want to extract the tooth so all the docs will convene and see what to do. Amazingly I am calm, but Di yesterday was upset about it all. Will be nice to have the weekend off. Halloween is tomorrow and as Di doesn't go shopping anymore I bought the candy. Anyhow, according to Di I have bought enough for 3 years!!!!! It is all chocolate so I really doubt that between the family it won't last pass Christmas!!!! The staff are at the hospital are all dressed in Halloween costumes!!! The receptionist looks like a bunny- I asked where her tail was- sorry am being naughty this morning but that is who I am!!! It is like one big family here, pity that it is all because of cancer. Well y'all have a great weekend and don't eat too much over Halloween!!!

A Starbucks Date!

From Ian: Good morning. A dreary day today. Yesterday was interesting. On our return from radiation we went and bought Di some new slippers for the winter. We had 30 minutes to kill before the dentist so went to Starbucks for a coffee and sat in the car and listened to the love station on satellite radio. I felt we were on a date years back having the soft music play and talking about the good old days. Then off to the dentist. Yes there is an abscess there and after various xrays have been sent to a maxio guy. Now they can take the tooth out but are worried about the chemo and her body immune system crashing. So we go back today after oral surgeon has consulted with oncology. Poor Di was not impressed and became quiet. Anyhow she took 30 seconds to get over it and was ok in the afternoon. She struggled with some knitting and after a stiff talking to, the brain kicked in and she was off again. Otherwise a quiet day!!!! Y'all have a good day.

If it's not one thing ...

The latest saga is we went to the dentist and there is an infection on one of the teeth. he does not want to touch it due sot the chemo and radiation. We then went to Midland Oral and Maxillofacial for Dr Skoczylas to look. He has the x-rays and will consult with the oncologist and see whether to save the tooth or take it out etc etc etc. Poor Diana was really upset and at lunch asked me if I wanted to sit next to her as she was such a nuisance etc!! I said, yes I did and I would not leave her.
She is better now but very tired after all this mornings activities. we go back to Oral guy tomorrow after radiation!!

Sun is good for the soul!

From Ian: Well it is that time of day. Di is screwed to the table and I write the blog!!!! Yesterday was an interesting day. Because of the bowel problem Di did not take the anti nausea pill. Well all was fine till lunch and the reaction came. Poor girl was having it come out in both ends!!!!! Lesson - take the mess as directed. Now before you all husband bash me, it was her decision!!! Anyhow she feels normal this morning and we take the pill. That is the nausea pill. We are taking Di to the dentist later this morning. Yesterday she complained of an abscess in her mouth. Today no problem so I said she must go and they can check it out otherwise I will have to pay for last minute cancellation. Went for a good walk yesterday. The sun is so good for the soul. Well you all have a good day.


From Blogmaster: I saw Di in the afternoon and she was keeping down crackers and green tea and felt better. While some may feel some blogs are "too much information" -- they are what Ian and Di are experiencing and what they need prayer for as well as encouragement. What was that quote about "a bitter pill?"

Sun is shining in Midland

Morning all. The sun is shining- yea!!!! Well Madam had a good day yesterday. She is still feeling fine other than being constipated which she keeps telling me about!!!!! The pill that combats the nausea can give you constipation so she hasn't taken the pill this morning. It would be great if she could do without the pill. She has also complained that she has an abscess in her mouth and then told me she does not handle this well. Well I told her we are down 2 days out of 6 weeks so she should not be feeling down yet. Guess I am on top of the world today to take care of her. I think I will take her for a walk in the sun. Thanks for all your wishes. Have a great day

Radiation begins -- Encouragement needed

From Ian: Morning from another rainy morning. We were up at 5.45 this morning so that Di could have some breakfast 2 hours before her chemo/radiation started. She then went back to bed and I started the housework, much to her annoyance. She told me to leave it but I had more energy then. Then at 8.15 we left for Mt.Pleasant for radiation -- trip was uneventful.
The weekend was fairly busy. We watched the movie 'Australia' on Friday night. We enjoyed and had a good discussion on it Saturday morning and I dreamt of the open plains of Africa and SUN. I am really struggling with trying to plan any future. The children have offered to move in to help in case Di gets bad but she won't accept that she has a bad cancer so I find it hard trying to talk about things. I am now using the tactic that should I be called from God's waiting room first how will she cope!!!
Well after the radiation we will go for her weekly blood tests. I hope all goes well in the next six weeks. Sorry I am not really in the correct mood today!!!!

Twists and Turns

From Ian: Greetings from a very dreary and wet Midland!!!! Had another good day yesterday. She enjoyed her quilting but felt tired on her return. I was free so went to the hardware store to buy some deer netting and then to Starbucks for a nice latte. Afternoon was uneventful and Fiona and Ryan came round for the evening.
This morning she is not so good. She is trying to write a short email to Andrew and is very frustrated as she can't spell and doesn't know the keyboard. After tears I have told her to write and I will spell check. I find it so very hard to watch how she has been reduced to this!!! We will be leaving shortly for a dummy run for the radiation and the REAL thing starts on Monday.
Roseb: I read your comments about our home on the mountain and it brought floods of memories back. We can't get rugby here. The house was constantly full of visitors and Di would always cook more as we never knew how many would be round the dinner table. All so very different here. Life is certainly full of twists and turns that we cannot anticipate.
Well I will go and help lady Di write her note.
Shalom.

Diana is full of beans? (Must be a British thing!)

From Ian: Morning from a wet and grey Midland. Yesterday was a great day and Diana was in good spirits. Morning was quiet but then the afternoon our priest popped in. He had just returned from Germany and we had a good time talking about that. We had been there several times to hike in the alps with the children. In the evening I had a meeting and the blog master came to visit. She came bearing gifts for Diana and I left them deep in discussion. They must have had a great evening as when I returned Di was full of beans. Can't leave 2 women alone as they get up to mischief.
We heard from the hospital and tomorrow morning we go for the dummy run. This is when they practice aiming the radiation beams. Then Monday the real thing starts.
Well u all have a good day and will report tomorrow. Shalom.

Keeping on

Morning all from a misty, wet Midland. Not much to report today. Di had a good day yesterday and was in good spirits. She helped with the laundry as she wants to do something. She still can't remember the name of the town where we live. She knows it is in Michigan, but the town she can't recall!! I managed to get out for shopping yesterday. Needless to say, I spent more money than she would have, but I always tend to find some little delicacies. Came home and we both made the muesli. She wanted to do it, but I told I HAVE to learn so we did do it together!!!
Tomorrow she has her quilters group so I am going to take her to that!!! Sorry not much to report for yesterday. Love and hugs to you all. Ian

Yes, blogs do change!

From the Blogmaster: I received a request to brighten up this blog to reflect some of Diana's favorite colors. Options were limited but we thought we'd give this a spin.

Going Bananas!

From Ian: Morning all. Well yesterday we went for the MRI. It was a smaller machine than the one in A2 (Ann Arbor-locals call it A2). Only took 20 minutes and they played soft music!! They had to interrupt it towards the end to inject some dye so that more imaging could be done. This was the dye that could cause a problem with her kidneys. Anyhow she has been drinking more fluids!!! I told her I don't want her kidneys packing up as well!!! We then returned home. I did the housework in the afternoon and she insisted to help. Anyhow after polishing the dining room table she was exhausted and I told her NO MORE!! She wants to help but gets so exhausted. I went out to the gym last night for a break and she was in tears when I returned as she thought I had left her. I told her it had only been just over an hour. Anyhow I will play that by ear as today need to go to the food store and get more fruit.
A very good friend had sent us an email on the banana. It is an amazing fruit so I have her eating them now!!! Wonders what an illness will do to a person. This morning she wanted to help with the laundry but after unloading the dryer and folding she is again exhausted, but she doesn't want to just sit all day. She gets very frustrated with herself. Well that is all the news from the little red house on the prairies!!! Y'all have a great day.

Keep Praying

From Ian: Hello from Central Michigan. Diana is currently having her third MRI, which is needed before they start the radiation. She is quite scared of the whole thing. Yesterday we went to Church and was great to see the people who clapped for Di to encourage her. Ryan and Fiona came around and one of our friends said he had too much food in the house and made a fantastic noodle dish. It was SO tasty and enough left over for another day. I was concerned yesterday that she was feeling numbness in her hand and foot. I have told the doc. This morning I found her sitting on the bed crying away. She said she was so scared.
The other thing is that today we were due fo leave for cape Town to see the family. This has also dragged her down. I have told her that we will go next year as soon as the doc gives her the ok to fly. Oh there is a possibility that her kidneys could have a problem getting rid of the dye they inject for the MRI but doc told her she MUST drink more water. I am afraid I laughed she told me to be quiet as I must be enjoying it. She drinks far foo little. Well that's it for today. Hope you all have a good week.

Home at Last

Carry on!

From Ian: Morning from Central Michigan

Well first day at home was a change from the hospital. Di spent most of the day resting and reading her cards. I was glad that she was able to read them slowly. I took her for a short walk to the end of the road and then had her doing exercises in the house. Fiona came around and then Ryan's mother popped in. One of the quilters also popped in. In the evening she became emotional and was crying and very angry. It is part of where the tumour is that causes the emotions. She had a good night.
This morning up early and off to Mount Pleasant we met the doc who will take care of the radiation. A real fun guy who knows all about ZA, as he calls it!!!! She is now having her mask made and then will have a cat scan and MRI so that they can get the exact spots for the radiation. Diana is feeling negative about the treatment as it is for 6 weeks and the possible side effects. I have told her that it is her only chance, other than God, so best to carry on. The pics of the family give her strength to carry on.
I have been asked for a new pic of Lady Di so will send it thru.
Y'all have a great weekend.

First days home

From Ian: Morning from dreary Midland. We arrived home yesterday at about noon. It was strange to be home after all the time away. The garden looks sad after some of the frosts Midland has had. We look forward to spring!!! Di really perked up being at home and last night she needed to get knitting again (hats for cancer patients and Alaskan fisherman). Last time she had tried she just could not get it. Anyhow last night was fine and she managed a few rows. She went to bed early and had a good nights sleep. Managed the stairs okay, but I have told her she can only go on them when I am at her side or behind her. I am hoping she will get back into quilting, though until she is steady I will do the cutting of the fabric, but she can plan it. Good for her brain power!!! This morning after having breakfast she did some more knitting. I am very excited about that as it is definitely an improvement over before.
Tomorrow we leave home at 7am for her to be fitted and measured for radiation. She will have to wear a mask and be screwed down to a table, which sounds terrible, but it so that she doesn't move whilst receiving the radiation. We will then have our schedule for the next 6 weeks!!! I have told her to enjoy today.
My dear son in law found an article on brain tumours.[http://brain.mgh.harvard.edu/PatientGuide.htm] I found it quite interesting and exactly what Di has been thru and what she will go thru. It is attached as some of you may find it interesting. One never knows when it will strike. Diana had not been in a hospital for 35 years or major ill and she was zapped by the worst brain cancer around!! Happy studying.

On our way!

Well we are all packed and ready to go !!! We have to wait for the final discharge by the doc which should be at 10am. Then home and wait for the radiation to start. No date has been set yet. Yesterday was a good, bit busy day for Di. She was being checked by docs etc. We had a visit from the cancer people and given a nice bag with a host of instructions and a book of what to eat but told the lady that Di did eat healthy and still got cancer. Anyhow I am happy as we will be in the mode of a vegetarian diet with more veggies and fruit. Red meat is out!!! Sister is really upset Diana is going. I have asked the nurses to move her to the window so that she can have a view of the fall colours. We will try to get down and visit her, but all depends on Diana's schedule. She is such a sweetie.

[I forgot to tell you. We had fun the other day. The narcotics bureau arrived and wanted to search the area where sister was. The nurses told them a little old sister was there. Anyhow they had been instructed to search and search they did. Sister was in fits of laughter. I asked her if this was a new way of raising funds by getting the nuns to peddle drugs!!!!! We all had a good laugh about it.]

Well had better pack Diana's things. Hopefully next blog will be from Midland. Thank you to the blog master who is currently sunning herself in Florida bur still continues to post the blogs many thanks.

Homecoming in sight

From Ian: Morning

I am late this morning as have had a series of appointments. Di is better this morning and doing the correct things. Yesterday she was sluggish and I was concerned she had gone back. Anyhow we met with the oncology doc this morning and he said things are on track. They will set up appointments for the radiation so not too sure when that will start. We will go home with the chemotherapy tablets which are taken before radiation.

We will find out this afternoon if we are definitely going home tomorrow, but it looks like we will be. Otherwise not too much news. Will check in sometime tomorrow. Di has asked me to thank you all again for your love and support.

Ian, the tour guide, slave driver, ...

From Ian: Morning earthlings

I did not write yesterday and hope you all had a good weekend. It went by so fast. Yesterday was a great sunny day in A2, as some call it. Di was slightly grouchy so got her up, showered her, put her on the wheelchair and off we went exploring. We stopped at the cafe Nd bought some lattes and a great choc chip coffee cake. Sat in the sun and looked at the fall colors. The one tree is so red. Took her to the cardiovascular centre as there is a great garden and waterfall there. Showed her where I was staying and thru some more hallways I had discovered. Then back for lunch. She was then tired and I then took Sister, her roommate, for a walk. She loved it and we discussed the art work and she also loved the fall colours. Oh yes, we had a visit from the doc to say that one of her lab tests was showing her kidney's were dry and that she needed to drink more. As a family we have always been on to her to drink more. She told him she could not as she couldn't pass water etc. He told her it was because there was nothing to pass and if she did not get her levels up she would be back on an IV. She drank more water!!!!!

In the afternoon she attempted her homework. It does distress me when she can't recognize 'hot' and I have to help her with it. She had to say what opposites were. She can get it but can't recognize it in writing. She says I am a slave driver!!!!!

Well I had better go and find her and see how she is today.
Thanks for all your love and support. We both really appreciate it

God's Mercies Are New -- Great is His Faithfulness

From Ian: Hi there.

Today is a lovely day with the sun shining. As I walked to her room I looked at the Gardens and some of the leaves were a bright red against the green. It was so beautiful and I thought of how God's mercies are new every morning and He gives us strength to get thru the day.

Yesterday was a tough and long day. It finally finished at 5pm. Then in the evening she had homework. Very simple 4 word sentences. We also met with the psychiatrist. They think of everything here. Fiona was hear for the day which was good as she could go to all the sessions. In OT they had a group cooking session and poor Di struggled with it and to put a few things in the dish washer and to wash 2 things stressed her. This morning she woke with severe chest pains. Anyhow she buzzed the nurse and had a whole lot of tests and EKG. So far all is ok. Anyhow I got her up, showered and now she is continuing with her homework. Later she has speech therapy. I will also get her up and practice her walking. She says I am a slave driver and no peace for the wicked!!!!!!


Thanks for all your love and support.

Some progress & Rugby lives!

From Ian: Morning from misty Ann Arbor. Yesterday was fairly uneventful with most of it being filled with therapy. I have been told that one day here is equal to five days of out patient therapy. Di is walking on her own, though a bit unstable. This morning she stood to fake a shower so am proud of her. She had homework from speech and had to copy words like 'cat, sat' etc. She struggled with that and took a while. She also complains that her sight is still not that good. Fiona came down last night and I have her sitting in on therapy today. Oh yes, the staples came out. Very easily removed and did not hurt.

Last night a group of students came round from the university to help cheer up the patients. One of the was a huge football player so we had a good discussion on the merits of rugby!!! He agreed that rugby looked tougher. There is a local rugby club and apparantly a girls rugby club!!!! Anyhow, Di was a given a cap which will help cover her head. Look for a picture in the next day or so.

Keeping on

From Ian:

Morning all

Well not much to report today. Di did better yesterday though she still gets frustrated with herself and is exhausted after 4 hours of therapy. She is very determined to fight it all. Radiation was cancelled today as we will get it closer to home. The therapy will take 6 weeks and 5 days a week. They cannot use the gamma knife as the tumour has tentacles spreading through out the brain. Rather like an octopus. The staples were not taken out yesterday so hope today. A comment was made by friends that she looked good with short hair. I tend to agree. Diana's roommate is a Dominican sister. She is about 90 and has been crippled with polio. She is such a darling and reminds me of mother Theresa. I help her with eating anyhow she has her whole Monastery praying for Diana!!!

Well you all have a great day.

Weeping/Homecoming in sight

From Ian: Morning from a windy Ann Arbor. Yesterday was a stressful day for Di.
The doc came and gave her the news that she has the worse type of tumour/cancer. She took it ok, however did have a weep after he left.

She then went for her first speech therapy and became very frustrated. She tries so hard. Later in the day I bought her a Latte and her hand knocked it all over the bed and floor. That was it and she burst into tears. It's hard for her.

Anyhow the good news is that we should go home next week. Then 6 weeks of radiation everyday will start and chemotherapy. The chemotherapy is a pill so will be easier to take. One good thing is that the staples in her head will be removed today.
That's all. Thanks for your concern and comments. I read them to her.

Bless you all.

Encouragement Needed

From Ian,

Morning all

I am writing this from Starbucks!!! We heard yesterday that the biopsy results had come in. Diana has glioblastoma. It is the worse type of tumour. The staples in her head should be removed tomorrow and on Thirsday we will meet with radiation and discuss treatment. She will also get a CAT scan. Life expectancy is not known as it will depend on the radiation and chemotherapy. I have not told her as do not want to get her hopes down. She is determined to fight it. Diana was very upset yesterday with the children leaving. I went out this morning to get a disability sticker for the car and then wandered into starbucks for a break. Diana has workouts in the am so not away from her. Well am sorry that this edition is not the greatest.

Biopsy Results

From Fiona: The biopsy report came back and confirmed what the doctors had already told us. Mom has a tumor called a glioblastoma and it is cancerous. They begin radiation and chemo on Thursday. They will also be doing another CT/CAT scan then and be checking the tumor to see if it has grown any. She is doing well with Therapy, but is tired at the end.

Good Weekend!

From Ian: Morning from U of M. We all had a good weekend and Di was hard at work in rehab. Was interesting to watch!! The one game was Uno and she had no idea what was going on. I am REAlly impressed with the hospital. We spoke with the surgeon this morning and the results of the biopsy should be in later today, hopefuly before Andrew and family return to Cape Town later today. Will report in later once we know what the results are.

It's a Miracle!

From Ian: We have just been chatting to a Doc who told is that they are SO pleased with Di's progress as the surgeon did not think she would make it!!!! God is good. We continue to pray for a full healing.

Pretty in Pink!

Progress! More to pray for!

From Ian: Welcome from rainy Ann Arbor. We final had Di transferred to rehab at lunchtime yesterday. She started exercise in the afternoon. The family all came last night and we had a good time in the lounge.

Today is full of work. Fiona brought some children's readers as Di is having problems reading so I will teach her when she is not in the gym. Her vision is still not good.

Radiation is scheduled to begin on Oct 8th and could take 4 to 6 weeks. We see what happens next week. If we can kill the tumour I think she could be pretty normal.

The bed next to the window has become available but I have been told for Di to move there would cost the hospital money to clean her section!!!! It would be nice for her to have a window to look out rather than a wall.

Well that is my news from U of M.

Surrounded by joy! Laura, Andrew, Rachel, Fiona, Ryan and of course, Lady Di. Where is Ian?

Is it all about Rachel????

Who needs therapy when you've got Rachel

Answer to prayer! Keep praying

From Ian: What a great day from U of M. Sun is shining.

Anyhow after our panic and various phone calls, the rehab dept have agreed to take Di. It now depends on our insurance and if a bed is available. We will know more later. She was tired and grumpy yesterday afternoon, and I needed lots of grace to help me thru the confusion. Ryan and Fiona will come and visit today. Rachel has been real good seeing that she has spent her visit to the US in a hospital. Many Thanks.

Frustration! Prayer needed!

From Ian: It is 12.50pm and we are on the war path. The neurosurgeons, OT and physio say that Di should be admitted to a therapy ward for further speech therapy. The doc upstairs does not want to admit her for some reason. I have placed calls to him and even walked the floor looking for him. If they don't want to treat her then get us transfered to another hospital. Still no results of the biopsy and have now been told it may only be Friday. Am very very frustrated and want to get things going. See Andrew's comment to today's previous post for further insight as to how to pray.

Causing quite a stir?

From Ian: Greetings. Now the comment about 1 or 2 spoons in coffee has caused quite a stir. Whenever I have made coffee or tea for Di it has always been 1 (one) spoon. The tumour on the brain must have affected her memory!!! Not too sure where Fiona gets her story. We will see what happens in the future and I wil report.

Di had a good night and managed to ring the call button for the nurse.
She is scared of buttons and has refused to use the call sign resulting in sitters being with her. We still waiting for a decision as to when they will start aggressive therapy.

Andrew, Laura and Rachel are down with us till Friday and we. Will then go back to midland for the night. Rachel is a delight and boosts Di's will to fight this. Sorry not much further news, hopefully more tomorrow.

One Lump or Two? Sugar, that is!

From Ian: Greetings from the city of U of M!!!! I feel I live here. Anyhow Lady Di had a good night, though this morning she is cranky as the room temp is 80F. I have turned it down. Yesterday we had a stream of docs visit her and she went to the gym which she enjoyed. We are still waiting to hear the results of the biopsy, though it doesn't seem good and will take weeks of therapy. She still has problems with corordination and the sugar lands half in the cup, but we battle on.
Di is definitely a fighter and is dertmined to fight this. The kids are coming down and will stay till Friday. Rachel is great therapy and is very good considering she visits a hospital. Funny side: Di has always taken 1 spoon of sugar in her coffee. This morning she wanted 2 spoons and argued with me that she always had 2 spoons!!!
Thanks for all your love and support. As a family we greatly appreciate it Love Ian

Hope! Sunday Night

From Ian: Hi friends. Well it is 8.50pm and I am in bed. Hospital sitting is very exhausting!! We took Di for a walk in a wheel chair round the hospital, but she seemed stressed so took her back and then today into the garden and she enjoyed sitting in the sun and having her family round her. An OT gal came today to asses her. She definitely has problems walking and has to be assisted. Her speech co- ordination needs working on and motor skills. They are concerned about our home as the bedroom is upstairs. We can move a bed downstairs but a prob with showering. We have to get a seat for the shower, and I will have to help her shower.

The therapy will take several weeks. I hope we can have therapy at our local hospital. We should have the reuslts of the biopsy this week but looks like she will need chemotherapy and radiation. We have to have a sitter with her at night as she does not realize she needs to ring the bell for help to go to the loo. Andrew, Laura and myself took turns last night. I need some sleep as I am really really exhUsted. The hospital have found a sitter for the night whilst I sleep. Tomorrow will be a busy day as she will see the OT, eye doc plus some other doc to asses her mobility etc. She is very tired and tonight has a temp of 100.5.

Well I think today it hit me and had my children organising my life. For the first time in my life I cannot rely on Di's advice as she has no reality of what is going on. She tries so hard. Financially I went into a wobble as I have no idea what it will cost. Ryan reckons it will be about $300k, however most should be covered by medical insurance. Anyhow we will fight on and not give up, but our lives will not be the same. Anyhow we love u and wanted give u an update.

Good News! Saturday Night

From Fiona: Mom is healing up from the surgery. She was awake and answering a few questions today, she seems to have more feeling on her right side, which was numb prior to surgery. We took her for a ride in a wheelchair around the hospital which she enjoyed as is tired of being in bed. She gets tired very quickly, but had a good nights sleep. She's eager to get up and get walking... somewhat too eager as tries to get out of bed by herself, but is unable to walk and hold herself up. She forgets to call the nurse, doesn't know how to push the button, even though we have showed her. So I spent the night with her to make sure she was safe, we are all taking turns sitting by her bed.

A Miracle!

From Ian:
It is 6.45am and the docs have done their rounds. The op went better than anticipated. I was told her leg would be worse today, but it is not. She has some recogonition but no worse than yesterday. Doc is happy. She will go to a normal room today and start therapy. She will have a further MRI this morning. So better news so the prayers have worked.

Thursday in Ann Arbor

From Ian: Di did not have a good night. Her right side has no feeling. They took another CAT scan this morning and the tumor has grown. She knows who she is but very little else. The doctor will operate this afternoon about 2.30. He does not want to do it as it could leave her paralysed, buy if we let it grow, it will be life threatening. .

From Fiona: Diana was taken into surgery earlier than expected. Andrew, Laura, and Rachel are coming in from South Africa

Wednesday in Ann Arbor

From Ian: Diana has a malignant tumor. A piece of tumor was removed and a stint was placed. Chemo will be started in two weeks.