Gaining Strength!

Babysat Matthew both Friday and Saturday, Friday being a Dora Marathon! It never ended!!!
Sunday, for the first time since my surgery I went to St. Tims for church and then out to breakfast with some friends....Like I normally did before. I also shopped for dinner on my way home and wrapped Bill's gift. Then in the afternoon I went to a hockey game of Colie and Katies. It was a tournament in Orono...and they were playing in the championship game. But ended in second place....after a good try. Then everyone came to my house for dinner which I had put in a crockpot before the game, to celebrate Bill's 43rd birthday. Funny....how Jimbo has taken his father's role....and cleaned up all the dishes and the kitchen for me after dinner. (Love ya for that Jimbo) He also arrived at the house before us...so he shoveled the driveway and put down salt on the icey patches. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!!! So all in all it was a wonderful weekend...and I am gaining my strength back, slowly but surely! Happy Birthday Bill, Love you, mom

Date is Set!

February 12, 2008, 8:00 a.m. North Memorial.

Light At the End of the Tunnel

Saw the oncologist yesterday....and he said if I am comfortable not having chemo, he's comfortable with that too! They will continue to keep an eye on me, and have already scheduled a CTscan and appointment with him in April.
Today I saw the surgeon, and he checked me out with a scope and said that the incision looks perfect and I can have the ileostomy reversed as soon as possible. However, he is busy for the next two weeks, so as soon as possible will be Feb. 12 or 13th. I'm waiting for the hospital to call and let me know which day and time. So as I would prefer it was yesterday, I guess the 12th or 13th will be great!!! I will be in the hospital for about another 5 days, so that doesn't sound so bad. The good news is that Tom and Karen will be back from Vegas, so it won't be when they are out of town. It's bad enough they live in Chicago, at least it is driving distance. Vegas would be much harder. So I am happy for that. I'll update you when I know the date for sure. m

Retirement Party

Last Thursday, the college threw me a retirement party and the TDC Gang managed to roast me from the crown on my head to the slippers on my toes. They crowned both Karen Orr and me with Queen for a day honors, even though I have been Queen Mary Mother Magnificent since my 50th birthday. (But that's another story.) They had prepared a great surprise slide presentation that played over and over during the party. After roasting Karen, it was my turn, and they managed some nice words inbetween "Maryisms" and the new words written to the tune of "You are my Sunshine" which had my family all in tears without hearing a word. Ann Sidoti (my first boss in Continuing Education and Customized Training) and Barry Lane who was a Director of Customized Training and a Instructor for us for many years both told some stories but also had some wonderful words. Then Pat Johns gave me a plaque the shape of MN with my name and years of service to the College engraved, a certificate signed by the Govenor of MN and a gift from the people at the college. (This was a digital frame with some of the pictures from the slide presentation already loaded on it.) There were many past and present employees of the college and both Karen and I had family and friends in attendance too. The TDC Gang gave me a beautiful vase handblown by Bob Toensing a famous art teacher at the college. I've been wanting that vase for over a year now, and in the past Bob wouldn't sell it....so I really feel honored that he would allow it to be bought and given to me.
Following the party at the college we moved to the Moon Rock Cafe in Champlin, and preceeded to party till 8 p.m. More people that couldn't be at the college came to that, as well as, a lot who were at the college too. All the grandkids got to come to that and they got the honor of passing out the cake after it was cut.
I managed to enjoy the whole day by sitting as often as possible, continuing to drink my fluids and eating as often as possible, even though I couldn't finish my dinner, I boxed it and had three more meals from it. I didn't sleep well that night had too much on my mind. All the excitement I guess. The next day I went to lunch with some of the same people all staff from the college, mostly retired. But Friday nite I really slept good. Making up for the night before.
Yesterday and today I've had the pleasure of babysitting Matthew (Annie's youngest) as they had hockey games and didn't want him in the cold rinks. So I've been hybernating all weekend.
I'd like to thank all those that attended any of my parties, and for all the gifts and hugs and many kind words. I will get busy and write my Thank You's soon. I loved the parties, and love all of you. m

Milestones

Hi, I've accomplished a few more milestones this week. I've been out on my own twice. Once to the college for a visit on Monday, and today I made a trip to have my hair done. It feels so good to be independent at last. If it wouldn't be for this bag...I'd feel normal again. I know by this time next month I will be well on my way to being normal again. My plans for Switzerland are coming along well...and my trip to Sedona in March should be a reality too! So needless to say...I'm ready to PARTY on Thursday!

Feeling Great!

Well, I am happy to report that for the last 2 weeks my ostomy hasn't given me any trouble. I'm feeling more confident that it will hold...moving around more freely, and sleeping better.
I've been graced with great company, last nite Phil and I went through pictures for the family tree and the movie he is putting together. Friday evening, Jimbo, Ann and her sister Wendy brought me dinner. I think Wendy actually bought it. But anyway Famous Daves was great. Thursday Janet came to put my garbage out... and we made spagetti. She changed her mind about 3 or 4 times as the week went on and weather reports called for snow on Thursday, but no snow appeared, so she felt obligated to my son to come and put out my garbage as she had promised him the week before. Today I had Jimbo come and fix a leaky toilet. So I still am a little needy, but really I am doing so much more for myself. There are just a few things I can't manage and wheelding a wrench under the toilet tank is one of them. I do appreciate all the help and meals I've recieved and hope soon I can return the favor for those who have done so.

Today I got a phone call from cousin Diane....so nice to hear from her....although Cancer and Chemo are Hell she sounds very strong and ready to fight to the finish. Please keep her in your prayers too!

I'm looking forward to Thursday and my big retirement party at the College and points beyond. Hope to see many of you there. Love ya all, m

Gaining Strength

Hi, I'm gaining strength each day, and trying new things each day. I've done a little house cleaning, and yesterday made the trip to the basement three times and did three loads of laundry. Made me a little tired in the end, but it makes me feel good that I accomplished it on my own. Walking out to the mailbox is a challenge I haven't accomplished yet, but my driveway and ice scares me, as last winter I slipped and hit my head, so I still am depending on others for that, but thinking I may drive my car out to the mailbox and back. Sounds pretty funny, but it should work.
Last nite Janet brought me dinner again....and also helped with some housekeeping jobs for me. So nice to have someone to eat with, as well as someone else to prepare it. But then I made her watch the biggest loser with me, and spoiled her eating the cherry tort she had bought for herself. So I have this nice dessert in my fridge....any takers? Janet says she will be back on Thursday evening to take out my garbage....so Bill will be happy to know that!
Keep the prayers coming, Love, m

Looking Good!

I had an appointment with the surgeon this a.m. and showered and washed my hair and put make-up on for the first time since the surgery...so I feel like a real human being! Went 4 days without a leaky bag, but as I got out of bed this a.m. I had sprung a leak. But have a new bag on and hope this lasts till Thursday. I see the Oncologist on Jan. 23, and then the surgeon on Jan. 24, at that time he will set the date for the surgery to reverse the iliostomy. He thinks in early Feb. The sooner the better as far as I'm concerned. I should be in the hospital for about 5 more days. Hopefully by then everything will be back in working order. Dr. thinks I'm doing well. Thanks to Ann H. for taking me to the doctor today, and salting my driveway so visitors won't kill themselves on the ice. Nothing more to report! Call or visit anytime. Love ya, m

Laughter is Good Medicine

Yesterday, I got a call from cousin Janet who said she would like to bring dinner and come to visit. So at my request she brought chicken wild rice soup from panara and a suprise guest, her sister Judy. So it was girls nite....and we talked and laughed till 10:15 p.m....they tried leaving earlier, but I kept them talking (not an easy task). My first company since I started feeling good, I had lots to talk about!
Success with my ostomy bag is still on the upswing. My friend who's sister used a Hollister bag, said she named it Holly! I said, "I'm not that attached to mine" hehe. So I'm getting my sense of humor back too! Monday I go back to see the surgeon, so we'll see what he has to say. Love and Laughter, m

An Enigma!

That's what the ostomy nurse calls me. The Coloplast system she had set me up with last week is especially for those with allergies, but I was the one in a million that couldn't use it. She said the Hollister brand I am using is usually the one everyone is allergic to. So you see I am an enigma!!! Any way I got a chance to see the skin under the bag and I have healed quite nicely. So things are going forward instead of backwards. My strength is coming back...I'm better each day. This a.m. I took a shower and washed my hair without assistance for the first time. I've fixed all my own meals today as well....also a first. So things are on the upswing.
Thanks for all the comments, I love reading them as well as the emails I've received. Keep the prayers coming...they are working....I can feel it! Love, m

Two steps forward and one step back!

New Years eve was great fun. My whole family was together at Lutsen. We started the evening with dinner at Papa Charlies (a great restaurant on Lutsen Mountain. They had a torch light parade & fireworks right after dinner at 8 p.m. and then we all went back to our townhouse for the rest of the evening and it culminated with champaign toast and a sigh of relief and a few tears that I had survived 2007 and I was so done with it. Then everyone cept me and Will took off their shoes and socks and ran outside in the snow to frolic? (their words). I guess this is going to be the new tradition, but I’m not sure I’ll be doing that even if I’m well?! Or at least I think I’m old enough and sober enough to know better. But then on the news tonite they said 679 people in MN took the polar plunge and they looked sober!!
I wish I could say the rest of the trip has gone as well….I was doing fine till I saw the ostomy nurse last Thursday and she changed by bag to a new and improved one....which I was allergic to, and have had nothing but problems since. I went to Lutsen with the kids and made two trips to emergency rooms, first to Grand Marias Hospital on Saturday night, and again on Sunday morning to Duluth, St. Lukes. The ostomy nurse came in special on Sunday morning to help me out. My skin around the stoma was raw and bleeding, and I couldn't get a bag to seal on my skin cause I couldn't get the skin dry...it was oozing. Karen had spent the whole night up with me trying to help me as I cried out for her every few minutes and there was not a lot she could do that made me feel any better. I think they were all relieved when I finally called Uncle and asked to be taken to Duluth to the ER. So we called Annie and she came and got me and drove me down to Duluth. But anyway the ostomy nurse at St. Luke’s took care of me, and I was fine till noon today,(Jan. 1) then I blew out that bag and Annie helped me get a new bag on and I told her to pack me up and take me home. I need to be close to the doctors down here in the city. So I’ll see the ostomy nurse again tomorrow and hopefully, all will be well. I feel so bad that I had given the kids so many problems, but the good times were great. And once again I couldn’t have done it without them. I love them so much.
I am so glad 2007 is over and today I begin a new happy year!!! Wishing all of you the same. m

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2008 and Happy Birthday Jimmer! 64, and Bruce Mortenson I think 64 too!

I,m back with the LIVING

Well, I'm well enough to sit up to the computer once more. I saw my surgeon this morning, and my blood pressure was perfect 120/70 and everything is on the mend. I still have small amounts of energy to do things, and am busy trying to keep my fluids and electrolytes in balance. But as long as I do that I will continue to progress as scheduled. He told me to have a good triip and he'd see me when I got back. Then I saw the ostomy nurse this afternoon, and got a completely new set up for that. It seems to be working well....and I don't need to return there. I will have to make an appointment with the oncologist in a few weeks. But right now, all I can think about is going to Lutsen with the whole family and celebrating a brand new year. I'm sick and tired of this one!!
Jimbo and Ann and the boys will be here to pick me up around 11:30 and we will drive as far as Duluth and spend the nite at a water park. Then we will head for Lutsen on Saturday. I'm taking my laptop along so hope to keep you informed all the way.
In the meantime, I have so many people to thank....till I get the thank you's written, I hope you accept this giant heart felt THANK YOU for all the thoughts and prayers, flowers, gifts and for just being there for me. I especially owe a huge thank you to Karen for taking care of the blog and keeping you all informed. I also want to tell you that I have the best bunch of kids (and spouses) in the world and they will even will wipe your butt when needed. They will be eternally in my debt....and last but not least my sister Kathleen, for sitting with me and encouraging me to cough and walk and to just go on when I didn't think I could. I love you all! m

Merry Christmas

It has been a very Merry Christmas in deed. Mary is getting stronger and stronger as the days past. She sounds strong. Solid. What better gift could we ask for.

God bless.

K

Jesus Take the Wheel!

This is what I know for sure. Miracles happen. I'm not talking parting of the Red Sea type miracles, but small, significant ones, that mean the most to those they effect. Miracles happen. This I know.

For all the challenges that Mary faced the last couple days, she donned her Santa hat and her blinking light necklace and joined the festivities of Progressive when Santa himself arrived to greet us all. It was exhilarating to watch and I think for all of us, pretty emotional. This is truly what the Spirit of Christmas is all about. I'm certain that all of Mary's Angels were smiling down on all of us in approval. It was awesome! Such an incredible lady. Such an incredible day.

With that, it was also a time for reflection and remembrance. We all felt Gene physical absence, but he most certainly was with all of us. We laughed about how nervous he would've been with all the kids and the fondue cooking that was going on. We lit a candle for him, and we are sure that made him anxious too. "Who was going to do all the dishes? Why is there so much Christmas wrap all over the place"? The quicker-picker-upper was missed :) We cried as each of us received our memory frame that Mary made for each family, with magnificent pictures of Gene's, Mary and Gene, and "the" bench at Gooseberry. It was wonderful to sit with our memories but so hard too. A wonderful evening. Mary lasted, sitting in the chair for two hours. So hard to put it all in writing. Small, wonderful miracles.

The night was good. She's moving a bit better, and is drinking and eating more which should improve her strength. Still light headed, but that too, has improved and it doesn't seem to occur as frequently, or without just cause.

Today, she's eating a bit more. Panera, Chicken Wild Rice seems to have hit the spot. Blood pressure holding steady. Still just trying to build up her strength. Hoping she'll be up for watching the Vikings game for a bit this evening. Lets pray for a restful nights sleep.

Life is good.
K

HOME!

Mary was released yesterday. She arrived on the door step with just a bit of assistance and was ushered into the familiar warmth of "home". All was well for the afternoon, but as the day wore on the full scope of the past ten days started to take it's toll. Things have not been easy. Mary continues to persevere, and she never ceases to amaze any of us with her undying spirit. It's those powerful prayers that keep her going.

Some obstacles that have made things difficult.
1. Blood pressure has remained low. 85/65 was the read at 2:15am. Concerning to most, but she was discharged with low pressure. Relatively low as the night continue, but in the early morning light it has come up a bit.
2. Remains very weak, not only from lack of food, but certainly the low pressure. We are pushing Gatorade, as per the nurse instructions and that has seemed to help.
3. Still is pretty dizzy. Some of this might be due to her allergies, but also that darn blood pressure. This has prevented her from getting up to go to the bathroom. She did slowly make her way up this morning and was FINALLY able go to the bathroom. She hadn't really done that all day yesterday so there was some concern with dehydration.

There're other issues, but the ones above have been the most concerning. We have been in contact with Healthpartners, and we are noting her condition and keeping everyone in the loop. Any turn and we'll take her back to Memorial for a precautionary check.

Progressive continues as planned. Mary is being a superb patient and is resting and perhaps she can join us a bit this evening when Santa arrives. PERHAPS!!

So.. You're not rid of me yet. I will keep you posted to the progress.

K

SCORE!!

Mary is going home!!! Had solid food yesterday, is up and about so they've given her the all clear. She's hoping to be home by noon.

Spoke briefly with the Dr. last night and although Chemo is an option, the surgery went so well, and the cancer was so isolated, that Chemo won't be something Mary will do. With that being said, she will most likely only have to have the stoma for 6 to 8 weeks. How about that!!!

All is well! Once again, we can't thank you enough for all the prayers and support. You all know what a difference it makes.

That is all from me. The true editor and chief will take it from here. Much love and a very Merry Christmas to all.

Karen

Apology

I apologize that I did not update the blog today. Life got in my way. I will speak with Mary first thing in the am, and be sure to post the latest news. Forgive me.

K

Batter Up!!!

Small victories! One foot in front of the other. It's the simplest of things that mark progress. Mary has made her mark, and she is well down the road to recovery. It's a long road mind you, but she's on her way.

Catheter has been removed so Mary has been up and to the bathroom numerous times. She needs a bit of help getting up, but once up she moves remarkably well all considering. They've also introduced liquids and broth and no complications at this point. Hoping iv's and all other wires will be removed tomorrow and then she'll be free :)

Incision is healing well, and she is comfortable, which I find absolutely amazing. She has yet to take any pain medication since off the epidural.We didn't receive any updates from the Dr. with regard to treatment from here, but hoping tomorrow will shed some more light on battle plan. I'll keep you posted.

Much love to all, and big Thank you to all and the amazing love and support. K

If You Want to Walk on Water, Get out of the Boat!

Mary took a short walk this afternoon to the elevator and back. Unassisted! This is some encouraging news after a pretty rough 36 hours. She also moved to and from her chair all by herself. Exhausted she did get a bit of a rest after Kathleen made her way to the airport.
Amazing what the power of prayer, Angels and perseverance can bring!
God Bless
K

Mother's...

What is it about mothers? When speaking to their children the sky could be falling, yet they maintain their composure to assure their children all is well. Such is the case with our Mary. She picks up the phone, realizes it’s me, and the voice changes immediately. Comforting me! Assuring me all is well. I am smarter than the average bear of course, and know that this isn’t the whole truth!! Moms!! Seriously.

Still not a ton of rest, and still no food. Hard to make progress when the engine just isn’t getting proper fuel. Hopefully tomorrow. Mary thought that the Qigong worked as “things” are starting to move! Stoma seems to be working better and there is hope that with it functioning Mary will feel better.

Dr. presents Mary’s case again tomorrow so we should have some news as to where things go from here. I’ll be sure to update as soon I hear anything 

K