2-21-21

A quick update:

Along with getting her second Covid vaccine, Mom completed her radiation treatments last week. The treatments were painful and she hasn’t begun to feel the results yet. The doctor is very hopeful that soon she will begin to feel some relief from pain of her growing tumors. We are so hopeful, too, of course! 

At this point, since she has tried everything, we’ve come to a fork in the road and her care will now be managed by hospice (here at home). They are reassuring -and again, we are hopeful- that this will allow her more comfort and a better quality of life going forward.

It’s not an easy time but we are doing our best to take it as it comes with all the mixed and complex emotions that arise, as they do.

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It has been fun and meaningful to continue to discover old treasures and wonderful photos.

I love the birth announcement that Mimi & Papa made for Mom. Can you tell Papa was in the Navy when she was born? So, so sweet.

He sent her this hula skirt from Hawaii. 

So many touching moments.

Mom & Charlotte (who was just here for a visit yesterday!) at 16.

Thanks for continuing to send your love. 

We can feel it.

❤️

2-5-2021

Wow, it has already been two months since our last update!

Mom has been doing well emotionally but having an increasingly difficult time of it physically. She tried one final round of chemo but it was decided that it was coming at too high a cost for the minimal (if any) benefits. Keeping on top of the increasing amount of pain medication necessary has been wearing thin.

Now she is set to begin a series of five radiation treatments on the tumors in her lung and in her hip bones. Her radiation oncologist is confident that this will reduce her pain by a considerable level, which is hopeful.

Happily, Isabel came for a visit in early January which is the best kind of medicine.

She, Chelsea and I had fun sorting out Mom’s beautiful earring collection and hearing stories about where they came from as we went.

Han arrived from Holland the following week for a visit and has been a big help in so many ways. Besides bringing his sunny spirit, he immediately installed a saftey rail in the shower and a new banister making it much easier (or at least safer) for mom to get up and down the stairs.

Han and I have taken a couple of mini-trips while he’s been here to explore the Pacific Northwest, Riley and Eric took turns filling in while we were away which was a win/win for all.

At this point, Mom is looking forward to being able to reduce her pain medication thanks to her upcoming radiation. She also wants to express her gratitude for all the messages of support, meals, and visits from so many of you!