GoFightWin!

Biopsy Results

2012-02-15T20:20:00.000-08:00

So sorry I've been so late in updating.

Last Monday, Laura went to the doctor to find out the results of her bone marrow biopsy.What she found out was that, from all they can tell, she is CANCER FREE!! (That sounds sweet, doesn't it?!) They also took her off the steroid that she's been on. She'll remain off of that until and unless they find a reason to start again.

She's been taking an anti-fungal medicine (I'm not exactly sure why) that costs a million dollars (slight exaggeration) which she no longer has to take.

Other news:

All of her numbers look good.
She only has to go to the doctor once a month now.
Her bone density test showed that she has NO SIGNS of osteoporosis (which is pretty doggone good!).
She is still not allowed to dig or plant in the dirt.
She is still on immune suppressants until they decide she no longer needs it.
And, it looks like she now totally has A+ blood type. (Isn't that interesting? When she got the bone marrow transplant, her blood type changed.)

She's been staying very busy, which I think she enjoys -- riding bikes, starring in a community play (well, perhaps not the lead role, but I've heard she was excellent!), teaching, spinning, church activities, birthday celebrations, and much, much more.

She is definitely an inspiration!
And, I love her.
So thankful for the good news.
And, so thankful for all of you who love her, too.

♪ ♫ Happy Birthday to you! ♪ ♫

2012-01-26T08:32:00.000-08:00

Today we're celebrating Laura's first birthday! She received her bone marrow transplant a year ago today.

Woooooooooooooohooooooooooooooooooo!!

Thank you, person-who-gave-her-a-brand-new-life!

We love you!

2012-01-20T14:00:00.000-08:00

Just a quick update on Laura:

She went yesterday to have her one-year-from-transplant appointment.

She had lab work and a dexa scan to determine bone density. Won't know the results of those until next week.
They also did a bone marrow biopsy. She was given 5 immunizations. (When she had the transplant she lost all her previous vaccinations. Had to start over.)

The doctor says that her numbers are good except for one which sort of determines if there might be some Graft vs.Host. She has some mouth sores but, according to her, it hasn't prevented her from eating orgaining 20 lbs. ☺

Because of the possibility of Graft vs. Host, she'll have to stay on the steroids forat least 2 more weeks or until the numbers come up.

The boot camp she was doing has to be put on hold as long as she's on steroids. She says: "I guess I don't mind not killing myself every Monday,Wednesday, and Thursday."

Her hipbone from the biopsy and her left arm are sore, but that's pretty much it.

Thank you for keeping up with her. I, personally, think she's done quite well with all that's happened in the past few years! She's pretty remarkable!

Love you, people!

2011-08-15T07:43:00.000-07:00

I received a text this morning from Emily after Laura's doctor's appointment. It said:

Excellent report from the dr. today! the prednisone is doing its job! she doesn't have to come back for 2 wks. :) She's so happy!

So there you go!
A pretty good start to the week!!!
Wooo hooo!

2011-07-27T18:49:00.000-07:00

Laura's had a fair bit of coughing for a while and the other day she noticed that her throat was scratchy. Then noticed a rash on other parts of her body. Looks like she has graft vs. host disease.

She had a doctor's appointment on Tuesday. Dr. Langston confirmed that she does have graft vs. host. They think it's a good thing when it happens in moderation so they aren't terribly concerned. However, they want to treat it now so it doesn't get worse. So, she's been given some Prednisone which will help with some of that. It will have some side effects that she may not love, but one good thing is that it will probably give her an increased appetite.

They still want to see her once a week at Emory -- which she was hoping would taper off, but we're thankful that they're on top of things.

Emily tells me that they still think she's doing well and that all of the things that are happening are normal.

Laura will start teaching again in a little over a week. And, while I think she's ready to feel like life is back to normal, she might have some adjusting to do. Your prayers are appreciated.

I wouldn't be at all surprised if I left some important details out. I hope that Emily --- or Laura -- will fill in those details in the comments section.

Thank you all for keeping up with Laura.
We love you.

2011-06-17T17:53:00.000-07:00

Laura went to the doctor the other day. This is the report I got from Emily that day:

****

She's doing really good. She didn't have to get blood today!!! Jessica said that her hemocrat level was unheard of for her--29! 27 or lower and she needs blood. Everything looks good except for her liver. She's not yellow at all--but her liver enzyme levels trippled from the last visit. Liver enzymes filter waste, medicine, stuff like that. They protect against hepatitus. So the over-production of enzymes is either a place of Graft vs Host Disease showing up or just that her Prograf level is off. She takes the Prograf to effectively graft her new bone marrow. And they recently adjusted her dosage of that--so that might be all it is. They upped her dosage of Prograf today and put her on a new medicine specifically for the liver. She goes back on Friday to check up on all this. Otherwise, her knee is still swollen--not getting worse, but is annoying her. They set her up an appointment with an orthopedist for Wed. morning to check on this. And she needs to go back to see Dr. Jani in Albany--he's her breast cancer doctor--just to check up and see if she can get off the anti-hormone medication he put her on that she feels may be contributing to the arthritis in the knee. She did her breathing treatment today that she regularly does to prevent a form of pneumonia. It doesn't taste so great to her.

**********

I spoke with Laura today (Friday, June 17th) and she had gone to the doctor again today. She didn't have to have blood today. They just wanted to see if her adjusted meds had made a difference. Some numbers changed. One of her liver enzyme levels is still high, but not the "OH MY GOSH! This is awful" kind of high. They've adjusted her Prograf meds and hope that things even out.

She's got a rash on her stomach and it seems like there's a rash in her mouth, too. The doctors say that is a sign of Graft vs. Host disease. And, even though you wouldn't think so, they say it's a good thing. It means her body is working to fight this new thing.

She's been working like a mad woman to clear out our family home. We sold it and closing is at the end of this month. That has worn her out. I'm heading back to Atlanta on Tuesday and hope to do what I can -- which I don't think is much (she's done pretty much everything). We'll all say good-bye to the house -- which is like another member of the family. It'll be sad, but good to be able to be there.

And, in other exciting news, Robert and Keren had a sweet little baby girl, Leah Celeste Hall, on June 15th.

Hopefully, this summer Laura will be able to "chill" and heal even more. She's pretty amazing. Stay tuned for future pursuits and dreams.

We love y'all!

2011-05-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty sure this was her first bike ride in almost a year.
Looks pretty good, huh?

2011-05-16T10:06:00.000-07:00

What am I GRATEFUL for?!!! I'll TELL you what I'm grateful for!!

I'm grateful for my sister, Laura!! I'm grateful for the donor that gave her hope!! I'm grateful for the doctors that have cared for her so well over the past few years! I'm grateful for the news she shared with me just a little bit ago! Which is:

They see NO leukemia!
She is now "100% donor." The exchange has happened!
She still has to receive blood because her blood type hasn't completely changed over. It might take a couple more months for her blood type to change. (She used to be type O positive and will become type A.)
Her hematocrit (I don't know what that is) is 29. For the average person the hematocrit is in the low 30's...so she's almost there!
No blood was needed this week.
She doesn't have to go back to the doctor for two weeks... (which is very good!)
In two weeks, they'll make a plan for her to continue check-ups in Albany with her doctors there. And, then, it'll only be every 3-4 weeks.
They told her for the 100 day stage (which is the stage she's in right now), she's "as good as it gets!"

Laura's highlight of the news today was that:

SHE CAN RIDE HER BIKE!

Thanks for your prayers and all the love.

Ain't she SOMETHIN'?!

The Three Sisters

2011-05-15T20:24:00.000-07:00

This past Thursday, Laura, Mary Celeste and I flew to Berkeley, CA to see Emily in a play called "Three Sisters."

Laura decided to jump on it when her doctor gave her permission to go see Emily's play. Mary Celeste and I were happy to be able to go, too!

I flew from Bellingham and met MC and Laura on Thursday night. Mostly, we ate good food, hung out and we enjoyed Emily's play... which has received great reviews and has sold out quite a few times.

Check this review out:::

And, this one...

Tomorrow Laura is supposed to get the results from the bone marrow biopsy that was performed a couple of weeks ago. I don't totally understand what they're looking for, but we're hoping that the results will show that her body has accepted the new marrow and that she no longer has leukemia.

Please pray for good results. I'll let you know what I find out. GoFightWin!, Laura!!

2011-05-02T06:30:00.000-07:00

Don't have the use of a real computer right now so this will be brief... More later.

Today at 2:00 pm, Laura will have a bone marrow biopsy. This is to make sure the leukemia has moved out. Before that time she'll have a bunch of lab work done.

Please pray for good results.

Love y'all!

2011-03-29T14:49:00.000-07:00

Not much to report .... but didn't want to leave you hangin' for too long.

Laura's been walking a couple of times a day... Cooks all meals.... She only goes to the dr. once a week now and she went on Monday. Had to have some blood, but I was told that's just normal. Not a concern.

And, today! She and Lisa went to the north Georgia mountains with Mrs. Cannon for a couple of days. I'm so glad she gets to do something fun.

Thanks for thinking of her and for continuing to pray for her and for her children.

Love,
~chc

2011-03-16T07:03:00.000-07:00

Sorry there have been few posts lately....

Here's what I know.
* Laura only has to go to the doctor once a week now.
* She's been walking about 2 1/2 miles everyday.
* She's been cooking all meals.
* She only has to have IV fluids every-other-day, but those will stop soon.
* Every time I talk to her she sounds good.

The doctor even told her that she could go back to Leesburg for a few days at a time, but she doesn't feel like she's able to do the 3 hour drive and it didn't sound like too much fun to spend the night in Macon to break up the trip... So, she'll wait a little while on that. She's ready to get back, though. She will be happy when she can be at her house.

Your continued prayers for her and her children are appreciated.

♥

2011-03-04T16:20:00.000-08:00

Laura had a doctor visit yesterday. Lisa tells me that they still say she's looking good, but her cough is a bit of a concern. She had a CT scan for precaution. The results should be back on Monday. She also had a nasal swab (to test for the flu) and Respiratory Therapy, which all patients are required to have in order to prevent pneumonia. The therapy was very uncomfortable for her--it made her more out-of-breath. But it's either this or three pills a week, and that isn't something she wants.

She's going to continue with the IV fluids every-other-day instead of every day. They are also decreasing her Prograf levels because of her shakiness. We are hoping that might alleviate the shakes.

Your continued prayers for her complete recovery and overall well-being are appreciated.

Thank you all for all that you do to help Laura and to build her up. She is somethin' else!

Love y'all!

2011-03-01T09:57:00.000-08:00

The Oscar's were celebrated in grand style on Sunday evening in Atlanta.

Even the press was there..

Invitees enjoyed the mild weather and the glowing sunset.

And, they pretended they were laughing just like Julia Roberts would do.

And, this guy showed up.

A Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Laura Hall Kitchens for her GoFightWin! achievements.

I wish I had been there.

**********************************************

P.S. I haven't received the details from her most recent doctor visit, but I did get this tidbit: she needs to eat more. When I receive more information, I'll pass it along. I'm kind of figuring that if she felt good enough to participate in an Oscar party, that's a pretty good thing. GFW!

2011-02-24T09:26:00.000-08:00

Here's the latest:

Last Thursday Laura started on IV fluids at home. Before that time, she wasn't able to eat very well and there was some concern about dehydration and energy levels. So, they gave her an IV for home use and she was told to remain on that for a week.

Today she went to the doctor and they said that she was doing well -- in spite of a drop in WBC. They said that sometimes drops happen and they weren't concerned. They decided to keep her on the IV for at least a week or maybe longer because they think it's helping her energy. From what I saw when I was there, that seems to be so.

She's also been eating better. And, I guess that could be due to many factors, but one of the big reasons, I think is 'cause she doesn't have to take those GIGANTIC Amoxicillin pills anymore. The size of those alone would make anybody feel queasy.

Emotionally she's doing pretty well. It helps to have all of her children with her. There are days, however, that are a little more challenging than others when it comes to being cheerful and upbeat. She amazes me, though, in her strength and determination.

Sorry the updates have been spread out. I think it's safe to say, when you don't see an update, that "No news is good news."

Have a good rest of your week.

Thanks for loving Laura.

2011-02-18T16:38:00.000-08:00

(For you, Clif ♥)

Quick post:

Laura had lots of IV fluids yesterday. The home healthcare nurse came today to show Laura and Lisa how to administer the IV fluids at home. She had one bag of fluids (4 hours of drip) today and I can't believe how much better she seems.

She's eaten more. She's taken a walk. She's fussed more (in a good way). She's had a sense of humor. Her color is better. And, to my knowledge, she's kept all of her food, fluids and meds down today.

What a difference a day makes!

Please pray that things will continue to improve and that she will feel better and BETTER everyday.

Please pray, too, for my cousin, Olivia and her husband. My Aunt Alberta died yesterday. She was the last of my mother's generation and she was very special to all of us. We will all miss her. She was full of life and spunk for a long time and I know that my Uncle Tom and my mother will be happy to see her again.

Love y'all.

2011-02-17T18:21:00.000-08:00

Laura had a doctor's appointment today.

Her white blood counts are at 5.8! Which is great! (And, for those of you who might not know, 5.8 is really 5,800)... Her magnesium and potassium were low and she's been having trouble retaining food and liquids and her meds. So, they gave her an infusion to boost her magnesium and potasium and to boost fluids.

And, while she was still exhausted from the day, she climbed six flights of stairs after her appointment to get to the car. Though I don't think she would tell you she felt GOOD today, she definitely felt better today than yesterday.

They sent her home with IV fluids which she will have for the next seven days. I think it's a good thing.

I thought it was enough exercise that she climbed those stairs, but she decided to take a walk with Lisa after supper tonight! Isn't she something?!

*********************************************************************************

Here are some photos of the IV fluids arrriving and just a glimpse at what all is involved in making Laura feel good again.

Love y'all!

2011-02-16T20:33:00.000-08:00

Laura had a tough day today... Hard to get out of bed... Headache... Hard to eat and keep things down... Hungry anyway... Walked a little bit, though!

Lisa and Clif are so great. Lisa keeps up with all of Laura's medicines and takes her temp. Helps change her dressing and cleans her port (or whatever the official name of it is). Keeps up with all of Laura's appointments, too. Clif gives her good back rubs and helps take care of household-y things.Both of them check on Laura all day. And Emily calls often (and will be here soon!). Laura sure does have some sweet children.

She has a doctor's appointment tomorrow. Praying there will be wisdom shared on how to take the meds and eat enough of the right kinds of foods (and keep them down) so that she can start to feel better. Eating and sleeping and lack of energy are the current hurdles.

Your continued prayers are appreciated.

♥

2011-02-15T14:19:00.000-08:00

Laura is very tired. Way more often than she wants to be. Well, I guess Laura never likes to be tired. But, in case anyone is unaware, she recently underwent some intensive chemo which killed all her white blood cells. (White blood cells keep us healthy and give us energy.) And, THEN, her body received some NEW cells which are adjusting to her body. And, THAT is why she's tired. She doesn't like it.

Now, if it were a regular day and Laura got to do what she wanted all day long, I think she'd get up, have a cup of tea, maybe go hang out with her students and inspire them to be the best that they could be. The day might also include talking to her own children and inspiring THEM to be the best that THEY can be. She might go for a long walk. She might go to spinning class. She might work in the yard or do some kind of house project that she's been wanting to do. She might sew some special things either for the house or her children or her nieces or nephews. She'd cook a good dinner and enjoy eating it. Maybe she'd put up some peaches or something like that. She MIGHT even come out to Bellingham to see me or fly to San Francisco to see Emily and then she'd walk all over and soak in every single moment of every single day.

And, that's what I think is buggin' the heck out of her. She truly wants to do all those things...and then some.

What she's able to do now is take baby steps. I believe that she's had very good days. The doctors think she's right on track. She's walked a mile for the past couple of days. The other day she went with Clif to the bookstore. She paid bills today and we went to the grocery store and to run errands.

For now, we're setting goals for the week and trying to cross those things off. And, they may be seemingly simple things like walk down the street or paying bills. But they are really big accomplishments. I mean it!!

She's got at least 80 more days of this kind of healing... it kind of overwhelms her, but I say she's doing JUST FINE. She's a very good girl who's gone through a huge thing and wants to jump right up and get back to "normal." This is the new normal, but the old normal will be back before you know it.

Please pray that she will allow herself to heal slowly and surely. Pray that she'll notice what she's ABLE to do and not what she's NOT able to do. And, please pray that all of us will know how to encourage her.

2011-02-14T17:55:00.000-08:00

Got here Saturday night and then Sunday just hung out. Robert, Mary Celeste and I went to visit our Aunt Alberta (who we love very much!!) and Laura rested. We all spent Sunday evening together and Laura did really well.

This morning Laura, Lisa and I went to the doctor. Her WBC is 3.8. They say she's doing really well. And, the best news of her day was that she can now have fresh fruits and vegetables! But, her magnesium was low and they thought she needed more fluids so she had a two hour infusion...She was there from 9:00 - 3:00. Long day.

But! She came home and we all went for a walk.

For dinner tonight, we had poached egg with spinach and parmesan cheese on English muffin. ☺

And, now, we're just sittin' around before it's time to lie down and go to sleep.

We love y'all!

2011-02-10T07:11:00.000-08:00

The doctors thought that yesterday was a bit too soon to leave the hospital. They wanted to make sure that all was well with her oral meds. (They probably just like havin' Laura around 'cause she's such a great patient!)

So, they kept her overnight again, but the official word is that she gets to leave today by about 1:00.

One of the tasks now is to try to manage her medicine so that she doesn't feel sick when she eats.

Robert gets to Atlanta on Friday and I get there Saturday. I get to stay a week! It will be so nice to be at Mama's...and I hope the weather allows for sittin' on the porch. Ahhhhhh. The comforts of home. That oughta help the healing!!

Love you all.
GFW!

2011-02-08T10:09:00.000-08:00

A brief update from Clif:

Dr. Langston just came in and was very confident that mom will get to go home tomorrow afternoon sometime. She said that mom was her "star patient." We asked if she says that to everyone and she said that she most certainly does not. This just confirms what we knew all along: mom is a badass.

Mom has had a little nausea today but is still taking most everything in pill form. She still has a craving for plain hamburgers from McDonald's so we got her one and she ate the entire thing. Her head is completely bald with the exception of a little peach fuzz that no one will shave off because it's risky.

******

Thank you for all the cards you have sent to Laura. There have been so many of them and she has really appreciated your thoughtfulness. Since she will be heading home tomorrow, please direct all correspondence :-) to the house in Atlanta. If you need that address, please leave me a note with your e-mail address and I'll send it to you.

Thanks so much for the love.

GoFightWin!

2011-02-07T10:20:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was the beginning of a good week.

It began with a benefit BBQ which was held at Leesburg United Methodist Church ... but it wasn't just the Methodists who showed up. ☺ The volunteers decorated tables, prepared "to-go" boxes, served tables, manned the money box, and cleaned up. And the volunteers in the kitchen got to wear specially made "GoFightWin!" aprons. And on top of all that, it was a very successful fundraiser!! Those people in Leesburg sure do love my sister...and that makes me feel very good.

Those are the take-out boxes

But wait! There's more good news!

This morning, I received the following e-mail from Lisa (Get ready to be excited!)

******************************************************************************

Mom is ENGRAFTING!! Her counts went up to 1.1 today and the doctors said the official word.

AND . . .

She is going to start taking her medicines orally rather than intravenously which is a step toward getting the release to go home. Dr. Langston said she might get to go home on Wednesday!!!!

Her mouth still hurts, but the swelling has gone down and the pain is a little less.

Keep sending positive thoughts.

GFW,

~Lisa

******************************************************************************

To all of you who check this blog and pray for Laura and have fundraising BBQ's, and do practical things to help her like bringing meals and checking on her house and running errands and sending cards and cooking for her and just plain loving Laura:
our family (Clif, Emily, Lisa, Robert, Mary Celeste, and I -- along with our extended family) says:
THANK YOU!!! What a GREAT BIG BLESSING you are to all of us.

Thank you for your continued prayers.
We love you.

2011-02-06T10:59:00.000-08:00

More specifics from Lisa:

Well, even though mom's birthday was a really hard day (maybe the worst day she's had), today she is much better. Her White Blood Count went up from 0.3 to 0.5. And when Dr. Langston came in today she said "I feel pretty confident that this is an indication that engraftment is starting." Although they can't say 100% that the new cells are engrafting, those words were really encouraging.

There is, however, something that is a bit of a concern. She has a case of mucositis in her mouth. It's not anything they are extremely concerned about, however, it is the source of a lot of pain and the lack of appetite for mom. They are taking her off one of her medicines that is suppressing her immune system, so the hope is that it will alleviate the pain and get rid of the infection.

We also were told by our nurse today that if engraftment really is taking place and we continue to see her WBC go up, there is a big possiblity of her getting to go home at the end of the week!!!!! (home meaning the house in Atlanta)

We still have a long road ahead of us, but she's taking it one step at a time and right now she is on the right path. :)

Also, some people are asking what exactly engraftment means. The definition as given by Emory: "Engraftment is a term the doctors use to describe the point when the stem cells start doing their job and blood cell counts start to come up." Hopefully that helps.

2011-02-06T09:26:00.000-08:00

I received a text message this morning from Lisa telling me that Laura's WBC is now at .5!!!! Doctors still are not ready to say engraftment is taking place, but it's a very good sign.

Laura is still in pain, but I KNOW she's feeling better than yesterday because (1) she was on Facebook this morning and (2) she forwarded me a photo from the barbeque that her church is having for her. Yesterday, she didn't even really want to talk on the phone. How active she is on the phone or the computer is a sign of how she feels...at least, that's my theory.

I have received a few photos of what's happening at the barbeque (will post photos of that later). Looks like so much fun. And, I saw some ladies in the kitchen gettin' ready to serve and they were wearing some very cute aprons! (GFW!)

Yesterday was a pretty tough day, but today is better and I think THAT is a sign that her new year has begun!

2011-02-05T08:16:00.000-08:00

Happy birthday to you!

♥

Happy birthday to you!

♥

Happy birthday, dear Laura!
♥

Happy birthday to you!

So far this morning, it's been a pretty rough birthday. She aches all over and she's been vomitting. She's taking a nap right now and we're hoping she wakes up feeling better!

2011-02-04T07:46:00.000-08:00

THIS JUST IN!

Laura's platelet count went up! The doctors have not confirmed that it absolutely means that engraftment is taking place, but they did say it's a good sign.

Her body JUST might give her a very good birthday present tomorrow!!

Prayn'. Prayin'. Prayin'!

2011-02-03T10:01:00.000-08:00

Being in the hospital has many drawbacks... Being in the hospital with cancer and mouthsores, and backaches, and stomach issues is even LESS fun.

But, one of the perks for Laura is the view she gets from her window. Check out the sunsets!

The past couple of days have definitely been better than Saturday and Sunday. She is, however, feeling weak and shaky and her white blood count is the lowest it's ever been. That's expected, though.

But...her spirits are good and she sounds good when I talk to her.

Don't know yet exactly when she'll be able to go home from the hospital, but they're aiming for next week.

Thank you for your continued prayers for recovery and complete healing.

You people are SUMPTHIN' else!! ♥

2011-02-01T11:26:00.000-08:00

Laura woke up this morning with a bad back ache. They don't know what's causing it, but they have given her something to ease the pain.

She doesn't like the idea of loading up on medicine, but has decided that when she feels really bad, she's gonna take it anyway.

She sounded pretty good when I spoke with her this morning, but I know she's not feeling great.

But! Check out her pillowcase... Her church had it made for her and they all signed it.

And, the pillowcase isn't all her church has done for her! They're gonna have a benefit barbeque for her. She told me yesterday that another church in town has already sold 122 tickets. That's not even the tickets sold at the church she goes to... People really are so good. Thank y'all!

Continuing to pray that the worst is over and it's gonna get easier and easier as the days go by.

2011-01-31T08:52:00.000-08:00

Today's update:

Clif tells me that she feels okay. She's been sitting up and reading and talking more. She also ate some grits! He thinks she's doing much better, but she definitely still feels pretty bad.

She even dressed for the day. And, look at that smile on her face!!

I love that girl!

2011-01-30T09:31:00.000-08:00

Sometimes you just need a plain hamburger that comes in a smiley face box.

Clif tells me that Laura is feeling a little bit better today. They gave her some medicine to settle her stomach which has made it possible for her to eat some solid food.

Here's hoping that THIS is the day that she starts to feel better and BETTER!

2011-01-29T14:46:00.000-08:00

She still doesn't feel good, but she walked 11 laps around the floor.

Is she a GoFightWinner, or WHAT?!

Please keep praying.

Thank you all.

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

2011-01-28T20:07:00.000-08:00

(Blurry photo, but a good reminder.)

It's been a rough couple of days for Laura. The side-effects of the chemo seem to be kicking in.

She has a dry mouth which makes eating difficult. Lots of nausea. And, a back ache.

But, Laura is a GoFightWinner. She STILL walked a mile today!!

The rough days may last a little longer. Please pray that the side-effects of the chemo will go away and that she'll start the part of the journey where she begins to feel better.

2011-01-26T09:20:00.000-08:00

The transplant has taken place.

Thank you, Ms. Donor! What an amazing gift you have given!!

And now, the real work begins...

Please continue to pray that "everyone" will get along just fine.

2011-01-26T07:41:00.000-08:00

The transplant begins.

Thank you, donor!!!
♥♥♥♥

2011-01-25T19:28:00.000-08:00

This was the fortune that Laura got in her cookie tonight:

Just in case you can't read it, it says:
Welcome the change coming soon into your life.

2011-01-25T10:24:00.000-08:00

Yesterday and the day before, Laura had what is called a plasma exchange because she has an antibody in her cells that MIGHT not welcome the new marrow. So, they took out all of her plasma and gave her new stuff.

Today, as I've mentioned, the doctors said the transplant will have to take place tomorrow because the draw from the donor is taking a couple of days.

Turns out that's a good thing 'cause they've done a little more research on the antibody in Laura's system and they feel that just to be EXTRA CAUTIOUS they're going to give her some medicine (a six hour drip) that will cause her body to welcome the new marrow. They used the analogy of either treating it like a cat or treating it like a tiger. They're choosing to treat it like a tiger and make sure it has left the building!

And, Lisa clarified some things for me: The engraftment period is the period when her body accepts the new cells. That can take between 5 and 10 days after the transplant. The donors cells ENGRAFT to Laura's body. AFTER the 10 days or so is when the donor's cells make up their minds to live happily ever after in Laura's body or not... This is where one of the possible effects is Graft vs. Host Disease. We do not want that. We want the donor's cells to feel at home IMMEDIATELY. That is our prayer.

Thank you so much for your prayers and love. What a special bunch of friends (and strangers ☺) Laura has!

As always, GoFightWin!

(~ coined by Lisa ☺)

2011-01-25T07:02:00.000-08:00

A hawk that Laura and Lisa spotted on their walk yesterday.

Just got an update from Laura...

The transplant will take place tomorrow at 11:00 a.m. EST. It turns out it was a two day draw -- which means it's gonna take two days to draw the donor's stem cells. "Will not affect anything" is the quote I received in a text.

So, we'll just keep on praying that GFW prayer!

2011-01-24T17:10:00.000-08:00

'Nuff said!

2011-01-24T14:25:00.000-08:00

Lisa gives an update >

Mom's chemo is done FOREVER and we moved rooms!!

Last night mom finished chemotherapy and, hopefully, will never have to go through it again! This morning she started her plasma exchange; she will continue the procedure tomorrow morning before the transplant. It all went well. She is feeling really tired today, but that's to be expected. And why shouldn't she be tired with all that she's gone through, right? I think a little rest is deserving.

We also changed rooms today. We have a VIEW!! You can see all of downtown Atlanta and Kennesaw Mt.

And tomorrow is the big day! We are still unsure of the exact time it will take place, but it's gonna happen! Send those positive thoughts.

As always, GoFightWin!

2011-01-23T21:56:00.000-08:00

This is what things look like for Laura over the next couple of weeks.... The "0" is the day of the Bone Marrow Transplant. The doctors expect that she will feel the worst about a week to 10 days after that. And, then as the engrafting begins to "take hold" she will begin to feel better.

It's not a fun chart to look at, but it gives us some idea of what to expect.

Though that chart isn't so much fun, Laura HAS been having fun eating salads and fresh fruit.

Thankful for the simple pleasures of life.

2011-01-21T10:06:00.000-08:00

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for the amazing things you have made.
Thank you for the minds you've given the doctors and researchers who make healing medicine possible.
Thank you for people who are willing to give strangers part of their body in order to save a life.
Thank you for friends and family who hold us up when we're scared or sad or confused.

Thank you for my sister, Laura.
She is creative and funny and full of love and life. And, she is strong.
But she is also human.... And, the hugeness of this "chapter" can sometimes be overwhelming.

Please continue to heal her. Prepare her body to accept joyfully the bone marrow that she will receive. Comfort her with a peace that only you can give and through friends and family who want to DO something.

Please comfort the donor as well. Prepare them in body, mind and spirit for the huge gift that they are giving to Laura (and to all of those who love her).

You are the healer. Please completely heal Laura and let 2011 be one of the happiest years of her life.

Amen.

2011-01-20T12:05:00.000-08:00

I found a penny today.

Can I give away my good luck to someone else?

And, can I change the rhyme so it goes like this:

Find a penny.

Pick it up.

For a thousand years

you'll have good luck!!

GFW!

2011-01-19T21:16:00.000-08:00

(This is a bag of masks... If you go to visit, you will use one of these.)

Laura moved into Emory today to get ready for the bone marrow transplant.

The first thing on the agenda this morning was to get a new port put in... It's called a trifusion so that she can receive three treatments at once.

She was suffering from a pretty bad headache all day and finally realized it was because she had not had any caffeine today! So, they fixed that problem!

While she was hangin' around waiting for the chemo to begin, she walked a mile. When I received Lisa's update this evening, they had not begun the chemo for the day, but they were expecting to start before eleven o'clock tonight.

Two of the biggest highlights of Laura's day were:

She found out that SHE doesn't have to wear a mask while she's in her room; her VISITORS will have to be the mask-wearers. Made her pretty happy!
She got to eat a salad today!

(Lovin' the simple pleasures of life!!)

And, as we might have expected, she is already making friends with the nurses.

2011-01-18T09:22:00.000-08:00

This is a big week.

Laura starts her 5 days of chemo tomorrow. She'll get a rest day next Monday and then the transplant on Tuesday, January 25th.

In the midst of something I don't consider very wonderful (AT ALL!) it helps me to remind myself of some of the things that ARE wonderful. Here are a few:

Her doctors
Medicine
The donor!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Laura has GREATchildren!
Laura has GREAT friends!
The snow/ice in Atlanta didn't keep things from moving along for her.
The prayers and support of so many people -- some of whom have NEVER even MET her!
Laura's attitude and general amazing-ness (made up that word, but I like it.)
I'm gonna be able to go to Atlanta to hang with her later in February.

Add some of your own ideas in the comments section....

Thank you so much for your prayers and support!! We love you!

2011-01-13T12:43:00.000-08:00

Laura has been in Atlanta since Sunday afternoon. She and Lisa left Leesburg early so they could beat the ice storm that was gonna hit on Monday.

As you might recall, Monday was the day she was supposed to have blood work to make sure she would be ready for chemo next week and the transplant the week after.

Unfortunately, the weather in Atlanta made it impossible for her to get to Emory and I think the medical staff there had trouble getting into work. So, she had to wait until today.

And, guess what?!!!

She's in remission!... Did you hear what I said?! She's in remission!!! They kicked out all the bad blood cells! They don't live there anymore! Wooooooooooooohooooooooooooooooo!!

However, she still has to have the transplant... Just to make sure that those ugly cells don't ever come back. I suppose it's like they're playing a trick on the old blood cells so they can't find her anymore. (My brain isn't working right now, so I can't remember that thing that the FBI does to put someone into hiding and they give them a new identity...????)

So, please keep praying for her. She starts five days of chemo next week. Then she'll have a rest day. Then the transplant will take place on January 25th. Pray for her, the doctors, the donor, and all of our family as we try to help her the best way we can.

Love to all of you!!

2011-01-06T15:45:00.000-08:00

I learned this verse a long time ago...

It popped into my head today.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord. "Plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope."

-Jeremiah 29:11

I like it. ♥

2011-01-05T20:01:00.001-08:00

The GoFightWin! spirit is spreading across the nation!

Harvey's company is bidding on a new project. I sent each member of the proposal team a GoFightWin! card as a motivator to do his/her best during the presentation. Turns out they loved the cards. And they loved the GoFightWin! story.

Isn't it something how one person can make a difference in so many people's lives?

Love you, Laura! ♥

2011-01-03T18:01:00.000-08:00

(A picture of how Laura's day started... Yes, all those test tubes are for her!)

Update from Lisa:

Today Mom spent a full day at Emory having her labs checked, a lumbar puncture and a bone marrow biopsy. Tomorrow she'll have an EKG and an Echo. All these tests are required in order to have clearance for the Bone Marrow Transplant.

We also found out definitive dates (I say definitive lightly [Yes, I know that's an oxymoron--but in my mind it IS definitive because nothing is going to go wrong. Period]. We are expecting all the test results to come back clear and to be given the go-ahead; if anything comes back abnormal then the transplant will be postponed). So on Wednesday, January 19th Mom will be admitted into the hospital: she will have FIVE days of chemo, a day of rest and then the actual transplant which will take place on Tuesday, January 25th. Starting from the 25th she will have to stay in the hospital 2.5 to 3.5 weeks--all depending on her white blood count and how her body and the new bone marrow react to the transplant.

A few things the doctor did want any caregivers to take note of:

-The first three days after transplant (26-28th) will be her hardest--supposedly; but knowing mom it'll be a walk in the park

-Any person coming to visit her in the hospital is STRONGLY advised to have a flu shot; they say shot instead of mist because the shot has dead flu cells whereas the mist doesn't

-Parking isn't free but the main caregiver can get a discount the first week (I know y'all find that really urgent news. I certainly did) ☺

Other than that, she has a few appoinments tomorrow and next Monday, the donor will have their blood drawn at some unidentified hospital on the 11th AND she is allowed to take walks around the block PLUS there is a stationary bike on the floor she will be staying at in Emory!

**********************************************************************************

Thank you, unkown donor!!!

And, now, a word from Laura:
The unknown donor and I are in this together....we are going to make it happen! Scheduled transplant date....1-25-11! We are both doing all kinds of stuff from now till then. The unknown donor has a lot going on too. What a sacrifice! I am so thankful for whoever you are.
--Laura

2011-01-02T21:07:00.000-08:00

("LIGMO")

Tomorrow and Tuesday, Laura will go to Emory for lots and lots and lots of testing. I'm pretty sure it's safe to say she's not looking forward to it, but we all know that one of her mottos is "LIGMO" (Let it go. Move on.) so she's "facing the future with warm courage and high hopes." (Did I get that right, Lisa?)

Please pray that things go well and that all of our plans to get Laura well fast will happen just like they're supposed to happen.

If all goes according to plan, she'll be back at Emory on the 17th for 4 intensive days of chemo and then the wonderful bone marrow donor will be there to give THE GIFT.

Please continue to pray that the donor marrow is being prepared for a wonderful transition to its new home and that the marrow and Laura's body get along JUST FINE.

Here's to a new year of good things!!

2010-12-28T22:02:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year

from

Clif, Lisa, Emily and Laura!

GoFightWin! in 2011!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-12-19T20:01:00.000-08:00

Today Lisa spoke at a friend's church about bone marrow donation... Here's what she said:

Back in September my mother was diagnosed with leukemia. We found out in October that a bone marrow transplant was the only way her leukemia could be cured. The doctors told us that before the transplant can take place she must first find a donor. She had a good chance of finding a match, according to the doctors, because she has three siblings. So when the results came back that none of her siblings were matches, needless to say, we were all very shocked. We now had to keep faith that someone in the National Bone Marrow Registry—a complete stranger—would save our mom’s life.

My family has been very blessed. A ten out of ten match—a perfect match—was found not even a month later. Her transplant is scheduled for the end of January, and we are all praying that everything will go over smoothly.

A bone marrow transplant is a serious, life-changing procedure. In most cases it is the patient’s only chance of survival. We don’t know who our donor is, and actually due to regulation won’t find out the identity until a year after the transplant. But my mother would not have this chance of curing her leukemia—of survival—of living more of her life, if it was not for her donor. We do not know the results of the transplant yet. But right now we are putting our faith in the donor, putting our faith in the doctors, and putting our faith in Christ that the transplant will be a success.

Although we have found our donor, many people out there are still looking for their's. What your church is doing today could potentially save a life. On behalf of my mother and our family we are honored to be a part of a community that is taking this active role in saving lives. Thank you for inviting me here today and for all your prayers and concern for my mother. My mom wanted to be here today, but unfortunately cannot be in large groups of people in preparation for her transplant. But I know her heart’s here. Thank you again.

************************************************************************

Later tonight, they had some guests drop by:

Merry Christmas!!

♥

2010-12-15T21:10:00.000-08:00

Laura has received the pre-evaluation schedule for the transplant.

On January 3rd, she goes to Emory and they'll do all kinds of tests: physical, lab work, a CT of her chest/sinus, lumbar puncture, and a bone marrow biopsy. (That's all in ONE DAY.) Then on Tuesday, January 4th, she'll have an echocardiogram and then an EKG and then at the end of the day she'll have a pulmonary function test.

It sounds like a lot. It IS a lot.

And, then, (I think I'm right, but Laura can correct me in the comments) if all of that looks good, she'll have four days of intensive chemo which will be followed by the transplant.

The truth is that the after-effects of the transplant can be VERY unpleasant. I don't fully understand it, but there is a period of adjustment where the donor marrow kind of rebels against her body.

Please pray with me that Laura's body will welcome the new marrow with open arms. Pray that the donor marrow will feel like it has arrived at home. Pray that the transition will be smooth and with as little discomfort as possible...I would love it (TRULY LOVE IT) if this transplant was miraculously uneventful and pleasant. (I believe in asking for what you want.)

Please pray that Laura will be at peace over the next few weeks and that the Christmas season will be full of joy and fun things.

Thank you all for supporting Laura and the rest of her family. There is no way you can ever know how much it means to us.

Wishing you a very happy Christmas and wishing all of us an amazingly wonderful 2011!!

GoFightWin!!!!!!!!!

2010-12-03T16:49:00.000-08:00

Laura's WBC was .5 today. It's low, but it's supposed to be low. So, she has to continue to wear the mask, stay away from crowds and stay away from anybody who might have the slightest hint of illness.

She won't be able to participate in any of the festivities happening tomorrow in Leesburg... And, it's gonna be a BIG day in Leesburg! She's gonna have to miss Breakfast with Santa, the big parade with Buster Posey (MLB's Rookie of the Year) as grand marshall, the street vendors, the Dog Gone Good Christmas dog show (new this year), and the Holly Follies tomorrow night.

Maybe Emily can take some pictures.

Monday she'll begin a 5 day cycle of Decitabine -- a type of chemo. Then we'll wait to hear from Emory to find out when she'll go in to have CAT scans, MUGA's, and other tests before the actual transplant. Before the transplant she'll have three days of intense chemo to actually bottom-out her white blood count. She needs to be as close to 0 as possible.

Then it's transplant time.

Please pray for Laura as her body gets ready for the transplant. Pray for the donor that his/her bone marrow will be ready to move to its new home. Pray for a smooth transition for that marrow. We've heard that the donor marrow has a hard time adjusting to it's new environment. Please pray that this will be as easy on Laura as possible. And, please pray that the WHOLE transplant will be a success!

Also, pray for all of Laura's family -- that the children and siblings and other loved ones will know how to be helpful and can be the exact kind of support that Laura needs.

I am praying for an exciting, long, pleasant and happy adventure for Laura when this particular chapter of her life is over. She deserves a lot of happy!

Thank you again, DONOR, for your gift to Laura and to all of us who love her.

2010-12-01T14:58:00.000-08:00

December 1st is a day to remember.

Today is the anniversary of Rosa Parks staying in her seat.

It's also the first day of Hanukkah....

And!!

It's the day they found a donor for Laura!!!

Her donor is a 10 out of 10 match!
(Didn't I ask y'all to pray for a perfect match?!)

Thank you, Mr. or Ms. Donor, for your gift to our family.
Love,
Everyone who loves Laura.

2010-11-25T18:05:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Laura spent the day in Atlanta and had Thanksgiving dinner at our cousin, Rene's house...

Afterwards, she, Clif and Emily hung out at Mary's house with Mary's family.

They had a good day.

Though I was happy to spend Thanksgiving with Harv, the girls and my in-laws, I would've loved to have been a part of that photo!

Thankful for so many things!

Love y'all!

GFW!!!!

2010-11-24T07:44:00.000-08:00

Watch carefully! You'll see some people you know!

GoFightWin!

We are all GIVING THANKS for all of you.

2010-11-22T07:27:00.000-08:00

"Do not be terrified, do not be afraid...The Lord Your God, who is going before you, will fight for you." (Deut. 1:29ff)

"He will take up your cause. He will remove your spirit of fear and replace it with a spirit of courage and peace. Look forward to your future with confidence. He has gone before us, He stands behind us, and He is with us...all at once." --Kristin Armstrong

2010-11-21T10:53:00.000-08:00

Get a few tissues!
Today's post is a speech written and given by Eve Ensler on Tuesday, October 26 at The Women's Conference in Long Beach, CA.

**************************************

The Gift of Cancer

It happens like this
The doctor walks towards me
His face is ashen
He says we have found something
It does not look good
There is a trap door in the seat of the waiting room
And I am falling
And as I fall I hear
The echo of him saying
Cat scan
As big as a mango
We can't be sure
This falling goes on for days
Even though I appear to be walking
And giving speeches and riding on airplanes
I am falling
As the new doctor at the new hospital
says it
says CANCER
As I wait to hear where it's coming from
And where it's gone
As I get pricked and probed and punctured
I am falling
As they first say it is not in my liver
And then later they can't be sure
Falling
Until they drug me and wheel me off
For nine hours
And when I wake up
I am in a new country
Nothing is familiar
Because the possibility of not dying
Is gone
Because I am now living in the land of the sick
Turns out my being a vegetarian-sober-nonsmoker-activist has not protected me at all
The surgeon tells me he has done 1,000 operations and he has never seen anything like it
Then he uses the word fistula
And uterus
First thing I think of course is
Congo
I knew from the first time I went to Panzi hospital in Bukavu
I stood in the place that felt like an open barn
In the place where 200 women sat on benches
Their wounded heads
Their canes
Their sweat
The strong smell of pee and shit from their fistulae
From the holes their rapist pierced into their bodies, tearing them apart
I knew from that first moment
When I looked into their faces
And saw the crimes of this century burning in their eyes
500,000 raped women
500,000 vaginas violated
500,000 bodies massacred
500,000 wombs destroyed
I had no way to protect myself
From the hugeness of the atrocity
From the insanity of this disgrace
It rolled over me like a tsunami of pain and took me
Took me took me
I have never come back
And I never will
And I knew those women now owned me
Have me
There is no other place I could ever be
No other fight that is not this fight
It's in your uterus
The tumor of rape
That is wild across the world
The tumor of rape
That exchanges women's bodies for the price of a cell phone
Or gold or diamonds
Or anything that can be extracted and stolen from their land
The tumor of rape that began growing in me when I was only five and now has matured into something the size of a mango
That's what the doctor said
Which of course is the fruit of the Congo
The most delicious in the world
The women of Congo are in my body
First gift I realize -- I am not alone
I have imagined what it feels like to lose your uterus or your ovaries
And inside the emptiness of my missing womb
There is space
There is a hunger
To just be still
Cancer stopped me
From running
Striving
Trying to prove my worth
It stopped me
From apologizing for the truth
It made me stay in one place
For 6 months
It brought me back my sister
It allowed me to commune with my friends
It forced me to take in love
And be cared for, which made me human
It took away the privilege of the well
And made me a patient
It taught me a new kind of pain
And now I see even more clearly the sick, the poor, the raped and the oppressed and I know we are family
And the majority
And that what divides us is illusion
Created by our refusal to feel
Maintained and manipulated by those in power
And I know I almost died and that it was only a couple of inches
And a few months that kept me here
And I now live with death as my companion
And sometimes she scares me and sometimes
she comforts me
But mainly she inspires me to be braver
And I no longer have any desire to be invincible
Because it isn't possible
Or accurate
I am vulnerable and porous
And outraged and crazy-happy and alive
And I know what care is
And what it isn't
How someone can stick you with a needle
And never see you
Or they can stick you and take the time so it doesn't hurt
And I fell in love with nurses
And I know that everything is ass-backwards
That we idolize people who steal our money and own everything, rather than those who get paid very little
To serve
And I know that chemo can be a metaphor
As well as a physical treatment
And that the poison is not meant for me
But the cancer
The perpetrators
The rapists
And it's okay to imagine them dead, mutilated and destroyed
Because we need an outlet for our rage
I know that after I was battered for years by my father and raped by him I held his badness, as if it were my own
And that the surgery finally removed it
And the chemo burned it off
And I know that no one will ever again
Convince me I am bad
Nor will I tolerate being undermined
And undone
I know that the abscess that grew around my wound
After the operation
The 16 ounces of puss
Became the contaminated Gulf of Mexico
And the catheters they shoved into me without proper medication made me scream the way the earth cries out from the drilling
I know that everything is connected
And the scar that runs the length of my torso is the markings of an earthquake
And I am there with the 3 million
Who are living in the streets of Port au Prince
And the fire that burns in me on day 3 through 6 of treatment is the fire that is burning the forests of so much of the world
Cancer made it clear
That time is short
And we must decide
If we devote ourselves to wrestling power inside the crumbling walls of patriarchy
or
If we are ready and brave enough to build the new world
And after searching for so many years to figure out what we are doing here
I finally get that we are being alive
Alive
Alive
And there must be time to linger
And time to enjoy
And time to remember
And time for nothing
And everything is precious
The Indian sari curtains glittering in late summer sun
The man petting his ugly dog in the park
The morning fog
The coconut popsicle
And I know that avoiding suffering is impossible
Stop defending against what is being done
Stop pretending you don't see the ragged man with his arm outstretched
Or hearing the cries of the earth being slaughtered
Or rationalizing the immoral war being fought in your name
Or finding ways to let famous rapists off the hook
Stop spending 900 billion dollars on unjust wars
While 30 million Americans are unemployed
Or justifying one genocide by another
Or burying your own story because you think you can't bear how much it hurts
Dying is the only way of being born
My cancer is blessedly gone now
My hair is growing back
I have a scar
A warrior track that runs down
My 57-year-old body
Each time I look at it I am reminded that I was opened up in order to remove the darkness
I was laid bare in order to be free of the pain
I surrendered in order to find my power
Each time I see my scar
I am reminded that I was lucky
That I had insurance
That I could afford the most extraordinary and loving surgeons and doctors
That I was surrounded by an embarrassment of love and friends and family who bought me soup and presents
And rubbed my feet and made me eggs at 6 in the morning when I was ready to throw up
I am reminded that I mattered
And because of that I recovered
I know that every single person deserves this attention
Every single person
And so my scar has become a permanent tattoo
Calling for inclusion and joy
I know that what truly kept me alive is the women of Congo
Whenever I grew despondent
Or sorry for myself
I would think of the women and girls
Who still dance after 6 million
Of their brothers and sisters have perished from the earth
Who still dance even after the international power elite has forsaken them for 13 years
Who dance now knowing that V-Day's City of Joy will open February 4th
And they will have their place, their fields
Their village to turn their pain to power
And become leaders in their world
How blessed I am to be forever linked with their destiny
I could not die
Simply until they were safe and free and running things
I bow to the women of Congo and thank them for saving my life

2010-11-17T14:26:00.000-08:00

Some days are harder than others...
Today, Laura is tired...and that goes along with lower white blood cell counts, I suppose.
And, today she's tired of being sick -- Who wouldn't be?

Please pray that she'll get some rest and that her spirits will be lifted. And, please continue to pray that a donor will be found quickly. (I STILL wish it had been one of us... Now, I'm hoping it's someone who is just like us -- only better! )

Thanks for loving Laura and for your support for her and the rest of her family.

2010-11-16T11:40:00.000-08:00

Laura went in yesterday for labs... She'll do that every Monday, Wednesday and Friday until the transplant.

Her numbers had dropped considerably so she had the choice of staying to get 2 units of blood right then or going back today. She chose to stay -- which made for a long day.

Dr. Tongol gave her the go-ahead to have Thanksgiving with the family if her numbers go up.

The best news of the day for her was that he gave her permission to eat grapefruit, oranges, avocados, bananas, and peeled apples!!

He doesn't want her to walk around the block anymore, but did say that as long as she feels up to it, she can ride her bike (inside on the Cyclops --- see previous post.)

Emily has been faithfully fulfilling her role as Nurse Ratchett...and sometimes has help from Mary Celeste, whose other position is that of cooking delicious food. (Mary went down to hang with them last weekend.)

We continue to pray for the perfect donor to show up soon.

"I am so thankful for so much!," Laura said.

You gotta love her attitude!

2010-11-10T10:39:00.000-08:00

The other day, Laura's friend, Anita, stopped by with a card full of signatures and a gift so she can continue to exercise during treatment.

It's called a Cyclops and she can set her bike in it and ride, ride, ride!

Her friends from the 'Y' and others who wanted to be a part of the excitement contributed....

"I love these people!," she said when she sent me the photos...

Thanks to all of you who are helping Laura make the most of an unpleasant situation. What a perfect gift!

Please continue to pray for the perfect donor..."Perfect" to me would include someone whose marrow won't cause trouble after the transplant. Pray that her body and the new marrow get along well and that the donor is found soon.

2010-11-08T10:39:00.000-08:00

Well, the results came back from the testing and none of the Hall children are winners... So, now, Emory will look for a donor from the national database and find a match. The results of that probably won't be known for 3 weeks to a month. It seems that Dr. Langston has found some potential donors from the national database, but they'll need to be tested further to be sure.

So, we wait a little while longer.

Please pray that the perfect donor will be found and that the transplant will go very smoothly...and that the donated bone marrow will make a quick and pleasant transition to its new home.

Please also pray for peaceful weeks leading up to that time.

2010-10-30T10:09:00.000-07:00

For those of you who might be interested (not just for Laura, but for whoever), here's the link to the National Bone Marrow Registry. (I'm still hoping to be the winner of the Laura Hall Kitchens Bone Marrow Donation Contest.)

http://www.marrow.org/

In other news, Lisa left this morning to head back to New York. Emily will be in Georgia until December 5th.

Laura and Emily are hanging out in Atlanta, eating chili cheese fries (blech!) and enjoying their time together. (By the way, Laura's the chili cheese fry girl, not Em.)

They'll head back to Leesburg tomorrow and Laura will receive the first of 10 rounds of chemo -- or until a bone marrow match is found - on an out-patient basis. As soon as they have a donor, the next phase will begin.

I just want to say that I love my family. So thankful for all the blessings in spite of a few difficulties.

Have a happy Saturday.

Ain't Nuthin' Simple!

2010-10-27T10:46:00.001-07:00

Laura had an appointment at Emory this morning. They received TONS of information.

Here's what I know:

She will start a totally different kind of chemo on Monday in Albany. That chemo will be for 10 days, once a month until they find a bone marrow donor. I'm not sure if it will be in-patient or out-patient.
She will need to be in the best possible physical and emotional condition in order to receive the bone marrow. Same is true of the donor.
This bone marrow transplant is the only way to get rid of the leukemia.
The donor will need to be at Emory for the transplant and the transplant will take place right after the donation has been made.
The doctor is very optimistic that they will find a donor.
A week before the transplant, Laura will receive an intense round of chemo -- which will kill all of her immune system. She will remain in the hospital for 2-3 weeks after the transplant has taken place so that they can monitor her closely.
Evidently, the period after the transplant can be very unpleasant as the bone marrows get used to each other. The donor marrow is the trouble-maker. (If I'm lucky enough to be the donor, I'm gonna have a "good talkin' to" to my marrow so that it will behave!)
After the transplant and the 2-3 week period in the hospital, she will probably stay in Atlanta at our house for the month or so afterwards.
She will be closely monitored for 2-3 years, but that doesn't mean she can't start livin' her regular life!
Here's something interesting! The (doctor) son of Laura's friend, Ann Pritchard, will be sitting in with her doctor (Dr. Amelia Langston)... just kind of keeping in touch with what's goin' on with her.
Dr. Langston compared this huge undertaking to mountain climbing... When you start out on your journey, the mountain looks so monstrous and it may seem impossible. But, the way you climb a mountain is one step at a time. And, that's how we're all gonna get through this journey, too.

This afternoon, Laura and the girls are going to go to the mountains with Mrs. Cannon for a few days. See some leaves. Eat some apples. Rest. ♥

Thanks for your continued prayers.

For those of you who might be having trouble posting a comment, please see October 13th entry for help.

An update from Lisa...

2010-10-26T19:04:00.000-07:00

(Buford Cheering Station during the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure)

The good news is that all her counts are great! Her WBC is 3.3 and her temp is normal. This is a good indication that her body is tough and knows how to handle chemo. :)

The bad news is that the first round of chemo (Induction) didn't get all the leukemic cells which means she did not go into remission like they hoped. Because the Induction did not work, instead of Consolidation (which they were going to do--that was going to be the five rounds of chemo over the next 18 weeks), they are now going to do a Bone Marrow Transplant.

She has an appointment with Emory tomorrow to discuss the process, meet with her insurance agency, talk with a social worker, and meet the doctor. Tomorrow we will also learn what kind of new chemo they will use before the transplant. The likely scenario is that sometime next week she will start her second round of chemo (which will be a different kind of chemo than the first) and once they find her bone marrow match they will immediatley start the transplant. However, she will have a second round of chemo regardless of how quickly they find her match.

Right now we need to pray for a match and for as little discomfort as possible.

Below are two articles I've found helpful to understanding the process. The first is an article from the NY Times from 2008. I've found it to be pretty informative without going into so much detail that I can't understand a thing. The second is very informative and includes a lot of details.

http://health.nytimes.com/health/guides/surgery/bone-marrow-transplant/overview.html

http://cumc.columbia.edu/dept/medicine/bonemarrow/bmtinfo.html

While I still have access to a computer...

2010-10-21T05:15:00.001-07:00

...here's the latest:

Laura gets to go home for the weekend!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (but she'll need to go back on Monday) The rules are that she must wear her mask and a hat and she can't have visitors.
She'll have five more rounds of chemo (which I think is called the consolidation phase) and each time she receives the chemo, she'll have to be in the hospital. As long as things go well, she can go home in between rounds.

I'm going in just a little while to Emory to have my blood drawn to see if I'm a bone marrow match. Mary has already done that and Robert will do it also. We're hoping that she won't have to have a transplant, but we're also hoping that if she does, one of us will be a match for her.

And, then later today, Clif and I will head to Lake Lanier so I can practice carrying the "My Sister" flag for the 3-Day. After that, hopefully a good night's sleep and then it's a whole lotta walkin' for us over the next few days!!

Thankful for the many blessings of this day. GoFightWin!!!

2010-10-20T07:51:00.000-07:00

Trying to update on my phone so I don't know how it'll look...

Laura's WBC was 1.3(!) this morning. She also had a bone marrow biopsy...

Looks like she'll have 6 more treatments over the next 18 weeks. Not sure exactly how that looks re: time in the hospital, but all treatments will be in-patient.

I'm waiting for my plane to leave Seattle. Am hoping I'm ready to walk on Friday.

Love y'all!

Very quick update:

2010-10-19T11:14:00.000-07:00

Laura was hoping that her WBC would be a 1 today, but it was 1.2!!

Other good news:

Emily has arrived and the three of them are having fun hangin' out. And, even more good news: Clif arrives tomorrow for a quick trip before he goes to Atlanta to walk with me in the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure. If you're in Atlanta, we would love to see you along the route if you're able to make it out.

Here are the cheering stations....

Friday, October 22
8:45 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.
89 Main St.
Buford, GA 30518

12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Suwanee Station
Station Center Blvd.
Suwanee, GA 30024

Saturday, October 23
9:15 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Oreck Vacuums Store and Plaza
5005 Peachtree Pkwy.
Norcross, GA 30092

11:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Duluth Monarch School
3057 Main St.
Duluth, GA 30096

Sunday, October 24
7:45 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Lowes
4950 Peachtree Industrial Blvd.
Chamblee, GA 30341

10:45 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Atlantic Station - along 17th St.
171 17th St.
Atlanta, GA 30363

And closing ceremonies will be at Turner Field at 5:30 p.m.

I hop on a plane way before the crack of dawn and head to Atlanta tomorrow. It will be difficult for me to post much while I'm away from my computer, but tune in next week for updates.

Love you all!!

GoFightWin!, WBC!!

2010-10-18T06:40:00.000-07:00

Tobi being a spokesmodel for that lovely DVD player

Yesterday, Tobi surprised Laura and Lisa with a DVD player! "Dallas" looks and sounds better on a real tv. ☺ What a nice thing for Tobi to do!

Laura and Lisa are pretty much just sitting around talking, watching old episodes of Dallas, and reading. Laura continues to walk laps around the floor twice daily-in the morning after breakfast and then after supper.

Emily arrives today so there will be even MORE fun for the three of them!

Medically speaking: Her WBC (white blood count) is still low but she's hopeful that things are looking up. Day before yesterday her count was .6. Yesterday and today it's been .8. Although it seems she's a long way from the desired goal of 3, she's been told that once the cells start rebuilding, they multiply fast. GoFightWin!, white blood cells!!

We all continue to be touched by the support and prayers of so many. Thank you all.

For those of you who might be having trouble posting a comment, please see October 13th entry for help.

2010-10-15T11:03:00.000-07:00

This morning Laura looked out her window and she saw her friend, Beth, and Beth's staff holding up a sign for her. ♥

She has received more platelets today -- which we are very grateful for!! A relative of a friend of hers was unable to have open heart surgery this morning due to a lack of donated blood. We're not sure if it's a regional, state or national problem, but we are so thankful that she has received what she has needed. If you're able to give -- blood and/or platelets -- please consider it. It's needed for more people than just Laura.

Lisa has gone to Atlanta for an audition. (Break a leg, little Lisa!) Emily arrives on Sunday. (Woo hoo!)

Keep the prayers comin'! She's made it through 3 weeks at the hospital... Just 3 more to go before she breaks outta there! GoFightWin!

For those of you who might be having trouble posting a comment, please see October 13th entry for help.

2010-10-14T07:44:00.001-07:00

Just thought I'd repost these lyrics... Love you, Laura!

♪ ♫ Who can turn the world on with her smile? ♪ ♫
♪ ♫ Who can take a nothing day, and suddenly make it all seem worthwhile? ♪ ♫
♪ ♫ Well it's you girl, and you should know it ♪ ♫
♪ ♫ With each glance and every little movement you show it ♪ ♫
♪ ♫ Love is all around, no need to waste it ♪ ♫
♪ ♫ You can have a town, why don't you take it ♪ ♫
♪ ♫ You're gonna make it after all ♪ ♫
♪ ♫ You're gonna make it after all ♪ ♫

In case you're having trouble...

2010-10-13T07:43:00.000-07:00

...here are some simple instructions to leave a comment for Laura...

After reading the blog entry, click on "Comments" at the bottom of the blog post.

Enter your comment in the "Leave Your Comment" box.

Verify the funny looking word in the box below it. (That is there so we won't get lots of spam from computerized programs.)

Click either "Google acct. ID" or "open ID" (I THINK there are options to create a Google acct. if you don't already have one. *****Remember to save your Google ID and password so you'll have it everytime you need it.)*****

Click "Publish Your Comment."

Ta-daaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!

2010-10-12T19:18:00.000-07:00

(Laura and her CNA, Cerissa...oh! and Mr. Pumpkin, too! ☺)

Today, Laura was hooked up to the IV all day with 3 different antibiotics and 2 units of blood.

She says the best part of her day was when Lisa went to get the clippers and Cerissa, her CNA, cut off her hair.

She's been having headaches and Lisa asked Dr. Tongol about it. He ordered a CT scan right about dinner time and thankfully, it came back negative. He wanted to make sure she wasn't having bleeding on the brain.

Other good news: Dr. Tongol now says she can walk around 2 times a day... Yea!

"I continue to be thankful for my family, friends, and the strangers that give blood and platelets everyday for people like me," says Laura.

She's also thankful that Lisa is there. "Lisa is great!"

♥

2010-10-12T06:52:00.000-07:00

Photos from this past weekend.

Yesterday on Dr. Tongol's morning visit, he told Laura that she couldn't leave her room. That didn't sit too well with her. It was rough on her all day long. In fact, she thought she might 'lose it.'

And, on top of that, she had some mouth sores. One was caused by the chemo and the other was caused by her biting her cheek in her sleep. (ow!)

It was a difficult day to stay positive and pleasant.

And, then! Dr. Tongol came back to visit in the afternoon. She told him just how crazy she was going without being able to leave her room. He said, "I know. Well, just go out once a day instead."

Whew! That was a big help -- mentally and physically.

Please pray for her mouth to heal and for her to have a good day today -- all the way around.

2010-10-10T19:08:00.000-07:00

Mary made lots of posters to decorate Laura's room. This is one of them... Pretty cute, huh?

All of last week Laura felt pretty good -- mostly stir-crazy and a little bit tired. Today, however, I think she's been more tired and it turns out she has a fever of 101.5 -- which is higher than it should be. (One of the goals for her is to not have a fever above 101 degrees). I was told yesterday that the effects of chemo don't kick in until about the 10th day -- which is what we're approaching.

Please pray that she'll do well this week and not feel too bad from the effects.

Thankfully, the family has been able to be there and overlap a little. Robert and Mary came on Friday and we were all able to be together for Friday night. Lisa will be with her until the 30th and Emily will be with her until December. And, I'm so thankful that I was able to be there for a little while. All of the love that Laura and our family is receiving is so appreciated. I'm not sure we can ever let y'all know how much it means to us.

Thank you for your continued prayers.

2010-10-08T16:35:00.000-07:00

Just in case you thought Laura wasn't a fighter.

Lisa's here!

2010-10-07T15:47:00.000-07:00

(The PATIENT is the one kneeling on the floor!)

Lisa arrived yesterday afternoon and it's been great having her here... It's fun to add another person to the mix.

Mostly, we've just been hangin' out. Last night we watched the very first episode of "Dallas" -- which hooked Lisa. ☺ Today, we had to watch another episode right SMACK kadab (!) in the middle of the day! We're just livin' it up!

Tonight Mrs. Cannon is fixin' dinner for all of us -- Laura's is being delivered to her room and Lisa and I will eat at Mrs. Cannon's. (Thanks, Mrs. Cannnon!)

Laura continues to look good and feel preeeetttty good. Today she had a chest x-ray and a sinus x-ray because she's been coughing. Praying that it's nothing big.

Still can't get over how good she looks and acts.

Please pray for the other families on the cancer floor. There are many people there who are going through all kinds of stuff... Hoping they feel loved and that they'll be healed.

Thank you for your prayers and support for Laura and all of her family.

We love you all.

Dr. Jani came by...

2010-10-05T17:16:00.000-07:00

Dr. Jani came by this morning to see Laura.

He had just come from a meeting with Dr. Tongol (and other doctors, I'm sure) and he wanted to let Laura know how glad he was with the final results of the bone marrow biopsy.

While he was there, he explained some of the science of cancer. He also talked about how much he likes Laura.

He said that she is the "kindest, ....(insert other adjectives that I can't remember), most positive patient I have. I wish all of my patients were like Laura. I mean that. I'm not just saying that because she's sitting right here."

Ms. Dye came over later and I was telling her about Dr. Jani's comment and she said "She lives that way. It wasn't something she had to learn."

(I like both of those people!)

In other news, Dr. Tongol told Laura that she has bottomed out...which I think means her counts are as low as they get. Now, I'm no doctor, but if this is "bottomed out" then I'm feeling pretty good about how she's handling all of this.

In my opinion, she looks great. She's been feeling a little lethargic, but her spirits are good and she's still walking around a few times a day and eating.

And Dr. Jani's words were "she looks very good."

So there, you stinky cancer cells!! Laura's gonna win! Nana nana boo boo!

Good news!

2010-10-04T17:23:00.000-07:00

Late this afternoon, as Laura and I were doing laps around the floor, we noticed Dr. Tongol entering Laura's room. When we got down there, he had wide eyes and an excited air about him. He ushered us into her room to share the report he had in his hands: the bone marrow biopsy results.

Originally, there was some suspicion that the leukemia she has now was caused from the chemotherapy she received as part of her breast cancer treatment. Today, Dr. Tongol told us it was NOT caused by the chemo... Which, though it doesn't sound so great, is good news afterall.

Turns out, that Laura has Acute Myeloid Leukemia with T(8;21) which "is usually associated with a good response to chemotherapy and a high complete remission rate." And, THAT is good news!!

As I understand it, this particular type of leukemia is easier to keep in remission. (That's what I'M talkin' 'bout!)

And, so, we thank Dr. Jani for finding the leukemia so fast. And, we thank Dr. Tongol for all he's doing to make this disease go away. And, we thank the nurses and all of the hospital staff for taking such good care of her.

And, we thank God for the good news of today.

Amen.

(Nurse Carolyn, Dr. Tongol, and Miss GFW, herself!)

Check this card out...

2010-10-03T11:10:00.000-07:00

This morning, Laura was sitting in the chair reading her book when the on-call doctor came in to check on her. He asked, "Where's the patient?" Laura said, "You're lookin' at the patient." "I thought you were a family member," he replied "and that you'd be bald." Laura said, "Well, in a few weeks, I'll look just like you."

We took that as a good sign. ☺ I've been thinkin' she looks pretty good and to hear the doctor say that he thought that, too, was encouraging.

Mostly, we've been just sittin' around, but I'm so glad I am able to be here. (Thanks, family and friends, for makin' it possible.)

She's had a few visitors today and a few phone calls. It means so much to her that people show their love in such thoughtful ways.

(Hey Sandra! ☺ )

2010-10-02T18:22:00.000-07:00

No photos today...

Laura and I just hung out today. I read to her from Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim by David Sedaris. We took a short nap. We ate lunch together and watched cooking shows. Mrs. Cannon came by and visited. Laura did laps around the floor. I brought in a pizza for dinner and then we watched another episode of The Mary Tyler Moore Show.

But the big news is that today was the last day of this round of chemo!! Woooooooooooooooo hooooooooooooooo!

I think Laura has been amazing in her attitude. She's not having much fun, though, just sittin' around. That's not her style.

Anybody have any suggestions for fun things to do while you sit around in the hospital? Jokes? Games? Exercise suggestions?

Please pray for her as she faces next week which might not be so great. They say that the effects of the chemo will kick in then. I'm hoping it won't be too bad.

Thanks for all you've done.

Sleep tight everyone.

2010-10-01T18:29:00.000-07:00

This afternoon Laura's preacher, Mike Lyons, and Mrs. Cannon came to visit Laura. They brought a fun little (really, big) surprise.

Last Sunday at church, Mike had everyone turn around to the balcony and they all had their picture made to let Laura know that they love her.

Look at me and Julie showing you just how huge this poster is...

In other news, she received the last bag of chemo for this week. Wooo hooo!!

By tomorrow night, she will have perservered through seven straight days of that. The doctor's words to her today were "You're a tough lady!" (We already knew that...She continues to show us all.) She'll have three more weeks in the hospital and then will receive another round of chemo just like this one. And, then... they'll check her bone marrow to see how things are going. (Pray that she won't have to receive more chemo.)

I can't get over how good she looks and how cheerful she is. Don't get me wrong. If she had her way, she'd be ridin' her bike and goin' out to eat with me and her friends. (I'd like that, too.)

But, she's a good patient. So, instead of that, we decided to have a "party." (A "party" is what we had on Friday nights as children. Our mother would make onion dip and we'd eat Fritos and dip and drink Coke while we watched tv.) I brought my computer (thanks, to Judy's brother and his employees my computer was fixed today, too!) and we watched two episodes of the Mary Tyler Moore Show while eating Fritos and dip and drinking Coke. We had a good time.

♪ ♫ Who can turn the world on with her smile? ♪ ♫

♪ ♫ Who can take a nothing day, and suddenly make it all seem worthwhile? ♪ ♫

♪ ♫ Well it's you girl, and you should know it ♪ ♫

♪ ♫ With each glance and every little movement you show it ♪ ♫

♪ ♫ Love is all around, no need to waste it ♪ ♫

♪ ♫ You can have a town, why don't you take it ♪ ♫

♪ ♫ You're gonna make it after all ♪ ♫

Quick update

2010-09-30T19:30:00.000-07:00

Laura continues to look good and is in pretty good spirits. She's been eating well and even takes a couple of walks a day around the floor.

Tomorrow is the last day of the first round of chemo. !! She and I are going to celebrate with a "party" -- which includes Fritos, Coke and dip while watching Mary Tyler Moore DVD's.

Please pray that she'll handle next week with minimal discomfort as the chemo kicks in.

Thanks for all you have done and are doing for her. ♥

Lots of love comin' in...

2010-09-29T18:09:00.000-07:00

People love Laura. And, they love her in many ways.

The cards she's received have been so sweet. Here's one we thought we'd share with you.

Judy Powell drove all the way to Atlanta to bring me down here. (Thank you, Judy!!)

(crane we saw on the drive from Atlanta)

Mrs. Cannon and Ms. Dye fixed an amazing southern dinner. Judy delivered some to Laura in the hospital and Mrs. Cannon saved some for me to eat tonight. OH YUMMY. So much delicious food. I'm going to sleep well after filling up with all that good stuff.

I felt pretty upbeat when I left the hospital tonight and then I saw the most amazing sunset... And, the first word to pop into my head when I saw it was "HOPE."

Thank you all for loving Laura.

A glimpse into Laura's day

2010-09-27T14:54:00.000-07:00

Don't have much to report today, but Laura sent me these photos to share...

She's always got a surprise when her meal comes. :-)

I don't think she's gonna have to serve... I think they'll let her off.

Yesterday's goals.... Check the bottom of the board. GFW!

A quote for us all...

2010-09-26T15:40:00.000-07:00

Lisa left this comment from an earlier post. I like what it says...and it IS, in fact, just like Laura.

"I found this quote by Martha Washington in an email my mom sent me a while back. I think it pretty much fits her. 'I am still determined to be cheerful and happy, in whatever situation I may be; for I have also learned from experience that the greater part of our happiness or misery depends upon our dispositions, and not upon our circumstances.'" ♥

2010-09-26T09:54:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update....

Chemo began yesterday. It's my understanding that she'll have the chemo for 7 days in a row. Then a 3 week "break" (while other things are being checked and monitored) and then I think there will be 3 more rounds of that.

Mary Celeste has been with Laura since Thursday (thank you, Mary!). I'm going to arrive in Albany on Wednesday and will be able to stay for about a week and a half. Lisa will come while I'm there and be able to stay until the end of October. Emily will come mid-October and will be able to stay until December! Robert and Clif are making plans to come soon. Thankfully, we all overlap a little.

Some very special news: Laura and I were planning to walk in the Atlanta 3-Day together. Her plans have changed, but I'm still gonna walk. I didn't really want to do it without her, but she encouraged me to do it. And, THEN! I received an e-mail from the 3-Day people inviting me to carry the "My Sister" flag at opening and closing ceremonies. It seems that I have to do the walk. ☺ I feel fortunate to carry the flag in Laura's honor and represent all people who have a sister in the fight.

Please continue to pray and please stay in touch with Laura -- either comment here, on facebook, e-mails, cards, letters.... Shower her with love. It means a lot.

2010-09-25T08:33:00.000-07:00

Look at that beautiful toe! ☺ Notice those letters? See what they say? They stand for GoFightWin!

I am heartbroken to report that the reason she got those letters painted on her toes is because she was diagnosed on Thursday with Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

But I tell you what! Her fighting spirit is still there and she's giving it all she's got.

She was admitted to the hospital yesterday and will be there for at least 4 or 5 weeks. After that, she'll have to go back for more chemo and will have to be admitted each time because the chemo will "knock her off her feet."

Because of the high chance of infection during treatment, she won't be allowed to have many visitors and those she has will have to wear masks, etc. She can't have flowers in her room or fresh fruit. But! She can have cards and letters and e-mails. And, prayers are always allowed!

As our former GoFightWin! 3-Day teammate, Debbie said : this leukemia "picked the wrong one to mess with."

GoFightWin!

2010-04-20T09:48:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the road is smooth and even.

Sometimes it's bumpy and full of curves.

Laura's been on a bumpy, curvy road lately.

Please pray that her road would even out and that the scenery would improve.

Please pray for comfort and understanding.

I love her.

Laura is Laura

2010-03-27T09:21:00.000-07:00

Laura just completed her second of seven weeks of radiation. Though it seemed a surprise to me when she told me it was going to take place, she said her doctors had discussed it early on in this HUGE process.

The effects of the radiation are cumulative, she has been told. So, the first week or so mostly affected her schedule. At the end of this week, however, she was experiencing tiredness.

Her treatment interferes with a trip she had planned during her spring break to go to New York. But, it's NOT going to interfere with trips she has planned to go to Lisa's and Emily's graduations!

Please continue to pray for my brave, tough, GoFightWinnin' sister! She has a lot on her plate. As Clif said, though, "She's the strongest person I know." It's been a rough few years, but she's gonna come out on top! I know it! 'Cause Laura is Laura!

GoFightWin! is at it again!

2010-03-13T10:15:00.001-08:00

In October, team GoFightWin! is gonna fight cancer again with the Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure. So far, our team consists of Laura, Angel, Jennie and me. We'd love to have you join us. If that's not an option for you right now, we'd love to have you contribute to either one of goals. Each of us is required to raise $2300 in order to walk. Go to http://www.the3day.org. Click "donate" and then search for our team (GoFightWin!). Then you can click on any of our names to make a contribution.

For those of you who may not know, the 3-Day is a three day (duh!), 60 mile walk to help support the cause of finding a cure for breast cancer. Laura, Angel and I did it last year. It was an amazing event. (You can find photos in the October blog entry.)

Both Laura and Angel have been fighting the fight for over a year. It's not an easy fight, but they've both fought with grace and perseverance. Makes me proud to know 'em!

Please consider supporting our team.

Thank you.

A Load Lifted

2010-02-15T15:20:00.000-08:00

(Laura happily discards the port that she has had for over a year.)

Thursday was a happy day. Laura had a tremendous load lifted off her chest :-) when her port was removed!! Woo hooo!

It then got better when the coumadin nurse called and said they had enjoyed working with her and that Dr. Jani said she no longer has to take take the coumadin!!!!

She bought herself a special latte and treated herself to a manicure and pedicure.

Thank you all for your continued prayers, encouragement and help. Laura has some pretty wonderful friends!!!

Team GoFightWin! is considering another round of Breast Cancer 3-Day for 2010 (some have already made the commitment)... Stand by for future updates for that.

We love you all!!

♪ ♫ Cel - e - brate Good Times ♪ ♫

2010-01-12T15:51:00.001-08:00

"Good times" might be a stretch, but there was much celebration on the day of Laura's last infusion.... Here are some photos of the day.

Weeeeeeeeeee haaaaaaaaaaaww! Last infusion!

Look at all that hair!! Time for a trim!

Friends and family gathered for a celebration dinner at "The Catch."

Check out the cake: "Beat Breast Cancer 10 - 4... Over and out!"

(Way to "capture Laura in cake," whoever arranged for that! ☺ )

Go Fight Win!

I love you, Laura!

January 7th is an Important Day!

2010-01-08T16:02:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was Raney's first birthday. We had a little celebration which included doggie birthday cake and a playdate with her mother and her sister. (I know, I've gone crazy!)

Even though birthdays are fun, the best thing about yesterday was that Laura had her LAST infusion!! Hooooooooooooooorrrrrrrrrrrrrrrraaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay!!

The end-of-infusion celebration in south Georgia was held at The Catch in Albany. (Wish I had been there.)

Photos of the last infusion and the celebration will come soon.

Please be praying for Laura. The doctors found a cyst that they think is "nothing," but she'll have it checked out to make sure.

Please continue to pray for peace and comfort. What a year this has been!

Thank you for your support and your prayers. ♥

Patience...

2009-12-07T11:12:00.000-08:00

Today I was reading an advent devotional and I read the following... It reminded me of Laura. She has been living with grace and patience in the midst of a difficult year. I continue to admire how she embraces life in spite of challenges and trials. She is an inspiration to me.

Wishing you all peace, joy and hope this holiday season and in the year ahead.

GFW!

***********************************************************

The Patient Live and Wait in the Present

by Henri Nouwen

A waiting person is a patient person. The word "patience" implies the willingness to stay where we are and live the situation out to the full in the belief that something hidden there will manifest itself to us. Patient living means to live actively in the present and wait there. Impatient people expect the real thing to happen somewhere else, and therefore they want to get away from the present situation and go elsewhere. For them, the moment is empty. But patient people dare to stay where they are, waiting.

O God, help us to be patient, knowing that all good gifts come from you in your own time.

***********************************************************

P.S. She has one or two more infusions with the research drug. Then about a six-month wait and then reconstruction. Please pray that she will remain healthy during this period. And please pray for peace and comfort. Thanks.

Team GoFightWin! at the Atlanta Breast Cancer 3-Day

2009-10-30T10:10:00.000-07:00

Our journey began waaaaaaay before last Friday... It began last year. Laura and Angel were diagnosed with breast cancer last fall.

This fall, team GoFightWin! decided that we were going to do what we could to help find a cure for it.

We travelled from various places on Thursday and ended up at Lake Lanier, GA so that we could walk 60 miles to show how serious we are about getting this disease to go away.

Here are some photos from our trip... Neither the words nor the photos adequately tell what it was like, but you can get some idea.

For me, and I think for others, it was an amazing, unforgettable weekend...in many ways.

I saw this as I drove down I-85. It was a sign of what would be in store for us over the next three days.

We gathered in Judy and Pam's room for a little social hour before our evening began.

Then the walkers had dinner at Jennie Clayton's house. She had a FEAST prepared for us. It was YUMMY!

And, then... it was time to retire for the evening. Early start the next day.

The whole gang pictured here before we all went to bed.

See what I mean when I say early start? It was still dark when we arrived on Friday morning.

Judy seemed to really get into the theme of things.

And Pam made all their costumes.

Normally, 3-Day walkers sleep outside, but our original campsite was "messed up" during the Atlanta floods. So, we camped in a BIG building.

Adrienne found her cozy little spot OUTSIDE of a tent. She preferred it that way.

Along the route on the first day, Angel's family surprised her with those sweet signs and those sweet boys!

Just in case the motorists didn't notice, there was a sign to let them know there were a lot of us coming.

See what I mean?

Day 2 begins.... Buses took us to the start of the walk.

There are still a lot of people walking.

A stroll by the Chattahoochee River...

All along our route -- on all three days -- we were met with cheering crowds. Most of the time, it brought tears to my eyes.

Our cousins met us in Duluth with this sign and goodie bags. They stood there for THREE hours waiting for us!!

At the end of day two's walk, the WHOLE team posed for a photo.

Beginning of day 3.

Mary Celeste's friends met us along the route to cheer us on. Even had goodies!!

Mary Celeste and I walked together down Peachtree. We thought this was a good photo op...

This is just one example of the fun traffic help we had along the route. The dancing motorcycle men (and women) were a HIT!

We're getting closer to the finish line!

Look what we saw on the sidewalk!!!!!!!!!!!

Leesburg sent some medical help! :-)

The closing ceremony...

If you look closely (just about the middle of the photo), you'll see Debbie Bruner holding the GoFightWin! banner that Pam made. Laura took this photo from the stage.

The Atlanta skyline as we head to our homes.

One last team photo -- with some of our supporters!!

An unforgettable weekend!!

Just a quick note...

2009-10-26T19:21:00.000-07:00

Team GOFIGHTWIN! completed the Breast Cancer 3-Day yesterday. It was an AMAZING experience.

We have lots of pictures to share ....and perhaps a story or two, but those will come when a real computer is available to me.

For now, know that ALL of us on the team appreciate your support.

Four Days to Go!!

2009-10-19T16:14:00.000-07:00

On Friday, October 23, Team GoFightWin! will begin a walk from Lake Lanier (about 60miles north of Atlanta) which will end at Turner Field on Sunday afternoon.

We are excited, nervous, emotional, tired, curious and hopeful!!

If you're in the Atlanta area and would like to cheer us on, please choose one (or all) of the cheering stations listed below to show your support for our team and for the many other teams joining in the fight against breast cancer.

Wooo hooo!!

GoFightWin!

************
Friday, October 23
8:45 am - 10:45 am Downtown Buford89 Main St.Buford, GA 30518
12:00 pm - 5:00 pm Suwanee StationStation Center Blvd. Suwanee, GA 30024

Saturday, October 24
9:15 am - 12:00 pm Oreck Vacuums Store & Plaza5005 Peachtree PkwyNorcross, GA 30092
11:30 am - 6:00 pm Duluth Monarch School3057 Main St.Duluth, GA 30096

Sunday, October 25
7:45 am - 9:30 am Lowe's 4950 Peachtree Industrial Blvd.Chamblee, GA 30341
10:45 am - 1:30 pm Atlantic Stations171 17th St.Atlanta, GA 30363

Coming Together to Make a Difference

2009-09-23T16:42:00.000-07:00

Saturday, September 19 Evansville, IN hosted a Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. The Race is nation wide event, hosted in various cities around the US. All the proceeds go to the Susan G. Komen breast cancer fund.

I decided to join the race in late August when arriving back at school. I had seen signs posted around the campus and thought I would ask our department if anyone wanted to walk with me. When I talked to our department I already knew several people were interested, however, I had no idea as many people wanted to be involved as there were. Our team consisted of twenty seven people from our theatre department. Every participant had to pay twenty five dollars to walk and then raise as much money as they wished after that.

When we arrived at the race on Saturday we were all overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and support of everyone around us. The community came together over the suffering and pain this cancer causes, and in doing so we were all made aware not only of the strength and courage of the individuals afflicted by this cancer but also of how a community can come together to make such an impact in the fight against breast cancer. It made me proud to know that I was a part of something that really can and does make a difference.

Although the fight is not over, we are winning. After being a part of something like this and seeing, firsthand, the spirit and the determination of so many people, there is no doubt that we will beat this cancer. Maybe not this year, maybe not next year, but it will happen. As long as people continue to have my mother's "GoFightWin" spirit and the support and enthusiasm I witnessed on Saturday, we will win. I realized on Saturday that "GoFightWin" is not just a cheer, it is an attitude. An attitude that I believe will not fail.

(Written by Lisa Kitchens)