Well, July 3rd came and went with no discharge from the hospital as originally hoped for, though it's recognized how relieved we are that the hospital doesn't simply send home patients when things aren't completely in place. This week, unfortunately, has seen some complications/annoyances arise, i.e., a chest cough, continued nausea, and low-grade fevers. Until these things subside, or until we find out why these are happening, Kathy will continue to stay in the hospital. Physically, a good choice, mentally, a bit harder to cope with.
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I come to you cyberally (new word for you, Webster!)/ electronically, to ask you for prayers this weekend, and even through Sunday as fasts commence. We need these complications to settle down in order for Kathy to be discharged, but we also need her body to have a break from these things before the next chemo/ bone marrow procedure begins, which, the Dr. has told us must happen within 4 weeks, so as to not give the cancer an opportunity to grow back. We are working against time, and time against us, thus, it's a very critical and crucial moment in Kathy's healing. Therefore, I do meekly plead for a heightened collaboration of prayers from you on her behalf and I profoundly thank you in advance for your love and support in this.
Many have inquired how they can help and what they can do. It cannot be emphasized enough that prayers and faith really do go a very long way and in our eyes, are a mighty service of good. Additionally during this time while she's in the hospital, I know that really positive, and encouraging notes/letters are great to receive.
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I want to be candid with you in saying that this experience my mom and Doug are going through is no peachy, spring walk through a park. It is unspeakably difficult, teeming with uncertainty, and indescribably painful both physically and emotionally and I believe that alone must speak volumes about how our Heavenly Father sees my mom and the intense level of "refining fire" she is strong enough to withstand because this is intense. Nevertheless, she is doing it, and she is doing it with grace and love and compassion.
I'd just like to say that, while it has been a difficult week, we've also seen the Lord's tender mercies over us as a family. We were blessed this week as the doctors and others aligned around the treatment plan for my mom going forward. My mom, and all of us really, were also uplifted this week by caring friends, expert advice, and priesthood blessings. We are grateful for these and other blessings!
ReplyDeleteKatie, thank you so much for the update. It makes my heart ache to imagine what she's going through. I'm sure it's almost completely unbearable. What a testament to how strong of a person-- physically, mentally, spiritually--she is. She is so blessed to have you and Doug at her side constantly. We will continue in fervent prayer for her. Give her love from me and my family.
ReplyDeleteI am so glad that my mom gave me the link to this blog. Aunt Kathy will be in our prayers. I remember when my mom went through this and how difficult it was for her along with the poor appetite and fear of fever and not being able to have so many things around her. Your mom helped my mom out as she left the hospital and had to stay close to the hospital in Salt Lake and couldn't return to Ogden. I know this is so close to my mom as she understands a little about what her sister is going through. I am glad that you are able to go up and see her on a regular basis. It probably gives her great joy to have you be able to come to visit her.
ReplyDeleteJen Young