Picture this...
Xmas morning, a cold, empty apartment. Two young women, both sleeping on airmattresses, wake up to the dulcet tones of Mannheim Steamroller. They turn on the gas fireplace and enter the kitchen to make a holiday favorite from Louisiana - treasure ring, which is a combination of biscuits with creamcheese rolled in butter, sugar, orange zest and pecans - with only a knife, a kitchen towel, and a bundt pan. While it bakes, they gather the gifts and zoom it all over to the hospital into the eager arms of a patient patient.
Karen, Rebecca and Gloria are enjoying a quiet morning together, missing our extended family at Christmas. Thank goodness for the internet and technology! We were able to Skype with our family in Louisiana and watched as Cousin Cora (2 yrs old) opened her very own tea set at holiday tea. Mom is doing well. Her hair is coming out in droves...Rebecca spent yesterday fashioning her a sort of mohawk, since the back and sides are the first to go. She looks pretty punk! Otherwise, things seem to be rolling right along. Her platelets and hemoglobin are pretty much normal and her white count is beginning to increase. Once her white count increases enough to keep her mostly out of danger, and her pesky throat sore disappears, she will be released to the new apartment, which hopefully, by the time she leaves, will have furniture.
Hope everyone is enjoying the holiday season! We are thinking of you and sending our love.
Rebecca, Karen, Sidney and Gloria
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Sunday, December 16, 2012
The Waiting Continues
Today, Sunday, December 16 marks the 12th day of 100 days of Gloria's treatment. So far things seem to be going as expected. Mom is faring well...eating, sleeping, drinking, and walking on the treadmill a few times per day. Rebecca has been entertaining Mom, cussing at her first knitting project this past week (see photo), and they've watched White Christmas at least once, possibly twice. Time drags along in here. News from the outside world is welcome!
Mom's white counts are still falling. They haven't quite hit bottom yet but we expect the nadir to occur sometime in the next few days. The donor's stem cells are still finding their way. Engraftment should occur sometime next week. We are cheering her new cowboy-surfer cells on, encouraging them to find their new homes and get to work. Gloria has promised them holiday bonuses if they do a stellar job.
Happy holidays and much joy to all,
Rebecca, Karen, Sidney and Gloria
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| Rebecca's knitting in progress |
Mom's white counts are still falling. They haven't quite hit bottom yet but we expect the nadir to occur sometime in the next few days. The donor's stem cells are still finding their way. Engraftment should occur sometime next week. We are cheering her new cowboy-surfer cells on, encouraging them to find their new homes and get to work. Gloria has promised them holiday bonuses if they do a stellar job.
Happy holidays and much joy to all,
Rebecca, Karen, Sidney and Gloria
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
Happy birthday, Gloria!!!!
Hello everyone!
Today marks Day 0 of Gloria's new beginning. As I type this, she is getting her brand new stem cells.
We are sending thanks to her donor, who we know is from the west coast of the US. Karen decided that he is probably a cowboy who owns a winery and who sometimes likes to go surfing. Sidney thinks that Karen is the one on drugs here...and Gloria is nodding off from the Benadryl she was given earlier. We Skyped with Becca, who will be back in Ohio tomorrow to join the festivities.
We're talking with her nurse about Graft vs. Host disease, something that Gloria needs a little of in order to stay in remission. We're hoping she gets the least offensive symptoms, like looking tan all of the time.
We'll be in the hospital for the next 21 days or so, and then we'll be living in Columbus until Day 100. We are looking forward to all of the togetherness that we'll have during that time.
Much hopeful love,
Karen, Rebecca, Sidney, and Gloria
Today marks Day 0 of Gloria's new beginning. As I type this, she is getting her brand new stem cells.
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| Peace and Stem Cells |
We are sending thanks to her donor, who we know is from the west coast of the US. Karen decided that he is probably a cowboy who owns a winery and who sometimes likes to go surfing. Sidney thinks that Karen is the one on drugs here...and Gloria is nodding off from the Benadryl she was given earlier. We Skyped with Becca, who will be back in Ohio tomorrow to join the festivities.
We're talking with her nurse about Graft vs. Host disease, something that Gloria needs a little of in order to stay in remission. We're hoping she gets the least offensive symptoms, like looking tan all of the time.
We'll be in the hospital for the next 21 days or so, and then we'll be living in Columbus until Day 100. We are looking forward to all of the togetherness that we'll have during that time.
Much hopeful love,
Karen, Rebecca, Sidney, and Gloria
Saturday, December 8, 2012
Happy (Almost) Hannukah
Greetings from The James,
Yesterday was Gloria's first dose of a nasty chemo drug called AGT. While we had been told what to expect as far as a reaction, it was still kind of tough to watch as her body struggled to fight the ugliness. Thank goodness for excellent care by her nurse, Adam (who was also easy on the eyes, lending more credence to Karen's idea that everyone here is an extra on Grey's Anatomy). Gloria was given some great meds to ease her symptoms, and Karen was thoroughly entertained by some of their conversations that ensued.
Today has been much more peaceful. We are listening to ocean sounds and dozing off and on. Tonight is the first night of Hannukah, and although we can't light candles here in the hospital, we will be celebrating as best we can.
Much love,
Karen, Rebecca, Sidney, and Gloria
Yesterday was Gloria's first dose of a nasty chemo drug called AGT. While we had been told what to expect as far as a reaction, it was still kind of tough to watch as her body struggled to fight the ugliness. Thank goodness for excellent care by her nurse, Adam (who was also easy on the eyes, lending more credence to Karen's idea that everyone here is an extra on Grey's Anatomy). Gloria was given some great meds to ease her symptoms, and Karen was thoroughly entertained by some of their conversations that ensued.
Today has been much more peaceful. We are listening to ocean sounds and dozing off and on. Tonight is the first night of Hannukah, and although we can't light candles here in the hospital, we will be celebrating as best we can.
Much love,
Karen, Rebecca, Sidney, and Gloria
Monday, December 3, 2012
Giving Thanks
Ok, so we are a bit late for a holiday post, but truly, we are full of thanksgiving these days. Thankful for our family and friends, thankful for the help and care of the staff at the James, and now so grateful to a stranger for making it possible for Gloria to get a new chance at healing by donating his stem cells. This past week we received the go ahead for the bone marrow transplant. Mom underwent some testing to check on her systems, all of which are looking good, and the donor also had some tests done to make sure that he wouldn't be passing on any communicable diseases. Fortunately, it turns out that the donor passed the tests, except that he is allergic to bees, which means that after the transplant, weirdly enough, Gloria will be allergic to bees. Given that Rebecca is also allergic, Gloria has had plenty of experience with Epipens, so we are going ahead with the transplant, despite the transfer of this "hypersensitivity disorder".
The logistics go something like this: Mom will check into the James Cancer Center again, this time on the bone marrow transplant unit, tomorrow, Tuesday, December 4th. She will go through intense chemotherapy for 6 days and then will get the stem cell transplant, much like a blood transfusion. After that, Mom will stay in the hospital in relative isolation for 2-3 weeks and then we will transfer to an apartment in Columbus for a month or two, while she continues to receive weekly treatment and check-ups at the James.
While we are anxious about starting this process, we are also acutely aware of our good fortune. Lucky that this wonderful man (yes, we know the donor is a man) has agreed to donate his stem cells. Lucky that his stem cells are a great match with Mom's (10 out of 10 HLAs). Lucky that the James Cancer Center is one of the top institutions in the world for this type of procedure. And most of all, so fortunate that we have such wonderful family and friends to help get us through these next few months.
And, in the spirit of giving, we want to encourage all of you to consider registering with the National Marrow Donor Program. This organization is how Mom was able to find such a great match and helps save many lives every year.
It is simple to register, just go to
http://marrow.org/Registry_Members/Donation/Steps_of_Donation.aspx
Thank you for considering being a donor or encouraging others to do so.
In the meantime, we will keep you posted as things progress.
Lots of love from all of us to all of you,
Rebecca, Karen, Sidney, and Gloria
The logistics go something like this: Mom will check into the James Cancer Center again, this time on the bone marrow transplant unit, tomorrow, Tuesday, December 4th. She will go through intense chemotherapy for 6 days and then will get the stem cell transplant, much like a blood transfusion. After that, Mom will stay in the hospital in relative isolation for 2-3 weeks and then we will transfer to an apartment in Columbus for a month or two, while she continues to receive weekly treatment and check-ups at the James.
While we are anxious about starting this process, we are also acutely aware of our good fortune. Lucky that this wonderful man (yes, we know the donor is a man) has agreed to donate his stem cells. Lucky that his stem cells are a great match with Mom's (10 out of 10 HLAs). Lucky that the James Cancer Center is one of the top institutions in the world for this type of procedure. And most of all, so fortunate that we have such wonderful family and friends to help get us through these next few months.
And, in the spirit of giving, we want to encourage all of you to consider registering with the National Marrow Donor Program. This organization is how Mom was able to find such a great match and helps save many lives every year.
It is simple to register, just go to
http://marrow.org/Registry_Members/Donation/Steps_of_Donation.aspx
Thank you for considering being a donor or encouraging others to do so.
In the meantime, we will keep you posted as things progress.
Lots of love from all of us to all of you,
Rebecca, Karen, Sidney, and Gloria
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
News About BMT
Sorry for the long hiatus. Things have been much the same since our last
posting. Gloria's blood counts have recovered to a safer level, so we
are breathing a collective sigh of relief. Once again, she escaped the
dreaded "fever" that indicates infection. The big news is that a date
has been set for bone marrow transplant (more accurately, stem cell
transplant). Admission to The James
Is scheduled for December 4 with actual transplant (infusion) of donor stem cells to take place on December 11. We will post more detail about the process later.
In the meantime, Gloria and Sidney will spend this Thursday and Friday in Columbus to receive information and extensive testing. Although Gloria is quite healthy, multiple sessions of chemotherapy through a central line can result in damage to organs, particularly the heart and kidneys. We are optimistic that she has escaped any real damage as she has no symptoms and feels well. She will undergo another bone marrow biopsy, described by her as "not much fun." This will show whether or not she is still in remission and a candidate for the transplant. At the same time, somewhere in the world, a very generous person, known by us only as "the donor," is being tested to make sure that no hepatitis or other disease that could be transmitted exists. We won't know the results of donor testing until November 26. Fingers crossed!
This has already been a long journey, and we are all so appreciative of the steadfast support and love we continue to receive from friends and family. We still have a long way to go, but with your help, we'll get there.
Love,
Karen, Rebecca, Sidney, and Gloria
Is scheduled for December 4 with actual transplant (infusion) of donor stem cells to take place on December 11. We will post more detail about the process later.
In the meantime, Gloria and Sidney will spend this Thursday and Friday in Columbus to receive information and extensive testing. Although Gloria is quite healthy, multiple sessions of chemotherapy through a central line can result in damage to organs, particularly the heart and kidneys. We are optimistic that she has escaped any real damage as she has no symptoms and feels well. She will undergo another bone marrow biopsy, described by her as "not much fun." This will show whether or not she is still in remission and a candidate for the transplant. At the same time, somewhere in the world, a very generous person, known by us only as "the donor," is being tested to make sure that no hepatitis or other disease that could be transmitted exists. We won't know the results of donor testing until November 26. Fingers crossed!
This has already been a long journey, and we are all so appreciative of the steadfast support and love we continue to receive from friends and family. We still have a long way to go, but with your help, we'll get there.
Love,
Karen, Rebecca, Sidney, and Gloria
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
G.I. Agnes is another year older
Hello and sorry to everyone for the delay in delivering news of Gloria!
We are back in Dayton, recovering at home from the most recent bout of chemo. Round 3 went relatively routinely, although Mom was having some issues with the clinical trial drug (Sorafenib), but the docs readjusted the treatment and she is now on a lower dose. So far, things are progressing similarly as last time. Mom is entering the nadir - her white cell counts are down and her hemoglobin and platelets will follow - but she is in good spirits and looks really good. In fact, we are all enjoying her new hair-do, all gray and short and bad-ass. Karen and Rebecca think she looks like G.I. Jane, but Karen renamed her G.I. Agnes, due to the gray. The Team is back together again, with Rebecca back in Dayton, and we are all enjoying the beautiful fall colors and the warm weather of Indian Summer. This weather feels perfect for ushering in Gloria's birthday, which is this Thursday, October 25, and she has been demanding a cake of some sort. Karen is scheming and will no doubt provide the perfect treat to celebrate the start of Gloria's xx year (a lady never tells).
We are all wishing for a swift and infection-free recovery and thank you all for your continued support and love.
xoxoxo,
Rebecca, Karen, Sidney, and Gloria
We are back in Dayton, recovering at home from the most recent bout of chemo. Round 3 went relatively routinely, although Mom was having some issues with the clinical trial drug (Sorafenib), but the docs readjusted the treatment and she is now on a lower dose. So far, things are progressing similarly as last time. Mom is entering the nadir - her white cell counts are down and her hemoglobin and platelets will follow - but she is in good spirits and looks really good. In fact, we are all enjoying her new hair-do, all gray and short and bad-ass. Karen and Rebecca think she looks like G.I. Jane, but Karen renamed her G.I. Agnes, due to the gray. The Team is back together again, with Rebecca back in Dayton, and we are all enjoying the beautiful fall colors and the warm weather of Indian Summer. This weather feels perfect for ushering in Gloria's birthday, which is this Thursday, October 25, and she has been demanding a cake of some sort. Karen is scheming and will no doubt provide the perfect treat to celebrate the start of Gloria's xx year (a lady never tells).
We are all wishing for a swift and infection-free recovery and thank you all for your continued support and love.
xoxoxo,
Rebecca, Karen, Sidney, and Gloria
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Yet another change of plans...
Sometimes the best laid plans go awry. Living with leukemia teaches you that.
Mom had been looking forward to having a few more weeks of what passes for normalcy and freedom, but it looks as if she will be back at The James early Thursday for another 5-day round of consolidation chemotherapy. The bone marrow transplant has been delayed until after the middle of November, and her oncologists are afraid that she will go out of remission if she waits that long for more treatment, which would be a disaster. We were not prepared to hear this, but know this is the best option. So, we will hunker down for another month of rest while her counts drop and then recover. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers. We'll keep you posted, and will try our best to keep her laughing.
Much love,
Karen, Rebecca, Sidney, and Gloria
Mom had been looking forward to having a few more weeks of what passes for normalcy and freedom, but it looks as if she will be back at The James early Thursday for another 5-day round of consolidation chemotherapy. The bone marrow transplant has been delayed until after the middle of November, and her oncologists are afraid that she will go out of remission if she waits that long for more treatment, which would be a disaster. We were not prepared to hear this, but know this is the best option. So, we will hunker down for another month of rest while her counts drop and then recover. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers. We'll keep you posted, and will try our best to keep her laughing.
Much love,
Karen, Rebecca, Sidney, and Gloria
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Change of Plans
Well, we lied to you. Not on purpose, but we received new information that puts us on a different treatment trajectory. Last Thursday, Gloria and Sidney met with Dr. Vasu at The James and it turns out that they found a bone marrow donor who is a very good match for Mom. This has given us a lot to think about over the last few days. After much deliberation, Gloria has decided to take the plunge and move forward with the bone marrow transplant. We feel that this will give her the best chance, though it will not be easy. So, that means that she and Sidney have a few more glorious days at home in Dayton. In the meantime, Gloria is trying to eat and sleep well and to get a little exercise in order to build back her strength. She is eating like a horse and has already gained 4 pounds in the last couple of weeks! Thanks to everyone who has been feeding her so well! We don't know yet what the timing of the transplant will be, but likely we will start in late October. Stay tuned for updates.
Love,
Rebecca, Karen, Sidney and Gloria
Love,
Rebecca, Karen, Sidney and Gloria
Monday, September 17, 2012
Shana Tova
It is the Jewish New Year and we hope it will be a
sweet, healthy and safe year for all! Ours is starting off on a decent
foot. Rebecca is back at home enjoying life on the west coast. She has
already been sailing in Johnstone Strait along the northern coast of Vancouver Island and had a
visit to beautiful Santa Barbara.
Karen is enjoying good success with her business and comedy. Sidney and Gloria continue to enjoy life at the pond and visits from friends and family. They especially appreciated having Cordula and Aunt Rebecca around to enjoy the end-of-summer bounty. Now that Mom's counts are back up, she is off the low-bacteria diet and can partake in the Ohio tomatoes and corn.
This past week, Gloria has been feeling pretty strong, although a sorafenib-induced rash has flared up and her feet are blistered, making it hard to walk very long distances. On Sept 12, she had a visit to The James, and, in keeping with the clinical trial, will go back for the last round of chemotherapy on September 24. It will be the same as the last time, where she has 5-days of chemo as an in-patient in Columbus and then will be home to recover for the month following. As before, the key will be lots of rest and remaining vigilant in our attempts to stave off infection. Sidney and Karen will be there to care for her at the hospital, and Rebecca will join them for the period of recovery at home to round out Team Gloria. We look forward to being together again!
Lots of love,
Rebecca, Karen, Sidney and Gloria
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| 67' wooden schooner, Passing Cloud |
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| Orcas in Johnstone Strait |
Karen is enjoying good success with her business and comedy. Sidney and Gloria continue to enjoy life at the pond and visits from friends and family. They especially appreciated having Cordula and Aunt Rebecca around to enjoy the end-of-summer bounty. Now that Mom's counts are back up, she is off the low-bacteria diet and can partake in the Ohio tomatoes and corn.
This past week, Gloria has been feeling pretty strong, although a sorafenib-induced rash has flared up and her feet are blistered, making it hard to walk very long distances. On Sept 12, she had a visit to The James, and, in keeping with the clinical trial, will go back for the last round of chemotherapy on September 24. It will be the same as the last time, where she has 5-days of chemo as an in-patient in Columbus and then will be home to recover for the month following. As before, the key will be lots of rest and remaining vigilant in our attempts to stave off infection. Sidney and Karen will be there to care for her at the hospital, and Rebecca will join them for the period of recovery at home to round out Team Gloria. We look forward to being together again!
Lots of love,
Rebecca, Karen, Sidney and Gloria
Monday, September 3, 2012
Labor Day
Greetings all!
It has been a rather dreary weekend here at Sidney's. Rebecca left early Saturday morning to return to Vancouver Island. The rest of us miss her terribly, but are happy she's able to be home. Gloria has had a little more pep in her step since she received two units of blood on Friday evening, but is still a little tired, of course. We're hoping the next week will bring recovering counts and less risk of infection.
Our Swiss friend, Cordula, has been keeping us entertained in the meantime. She's also been trading cooking duties with Karen, who has been delighted to learn a few German words (mostly spices).
Although we're not doing anything horribly exciting, we're still enjoying each other's company. We're also still in awe of everyone's continuing generosity and kindness. We hope all of you are enjoying those you love this holiday weekend.
All the best,
Karen, Rebecca, Sidney, and Gloria
It has been a rather dreary weekend here at Sidney's. Rebecca left early Saturday morning to return to Vancouver Island. The rest of us miss her terribly, but are happy she's able to be home. Gloria has had a little more pep in her step since she received two units of blood on Friday evening, but is still a little tired, of course. We're hoping the next week will bring recovering counts and less risk of infection.
Our Swiss friend, Cordula, has been keeping us entertained in the meantime. She's also been trading cooking duties with Karen, who has been delighted to learn a few German words (mostly spices).
Although we're not doing anything horribly exciting, we're still enjoying each other's company. We're also still in awe of everyone's continuing generosity and kindness. We hope all of you are enjoying those you love this holiday weekend.
All the best,
Karen, Rebecca, Sidney, and Gloria
Monday, August 27, 2012
Nadir
It is Day 14 since the beginning of consolidation therapy and Gloria's white cells have hit bottom (i.e. the nadir). Fortunately so far we have been fever-free, rash-free, and nausea-free (we are also diarrhea-free but mom said we couldn't use that word - too bad she's got chemo-brain and can't stop us). Hopefully we will remain infection free and get through this time comfortably. We are currently in the Kettering Medical Center where Mom is receiving a platelet infusion. Her platelet count dropped along with the neutrophils and she has a few bruises to show off. We will probably be back for blood sometime during the next week.
We have been enjoying the beautiful late summer days, watching the turtles basking themselves in the midday sun on the banks of the pond and catching glimpses of the few remaining fireflies in the evening. Team Gloria are keeping up with cooking and cleaning (Mom has been telling us that we make good mommies) and are also managing to get out and have some fun.
Once again we want to thank everyone for your good wishes, love and support. We cannot express how grateful we all are and how blessed we feel.
Lots of love,
Rebecca, Karen, Sidney, and Gloria
We have been enjoying the beautiful late summer days, watching the turtles basking themselves in the midday sun on the banks of the pond and catching glimpses of the few remaining fireflies in the evening. Team Gloria are keeping up with cooking and cleaning (Mom has been telling us that we make good mommies) and are also managing to get out and have some fun.
Once again we want to thank everyone for your good wishes, love and support. We cannot express how grateful we all are and how blessed we feel.
Lots of love,
Rebecca, Karen, Sidney, and Gloria
Monday, August 20, 2012
Pond Side
This round of chemo is over and rather than recovering in The James, we have been released to recover in Dayton. Gloria made it through the consolidation treatment with flying colors, but now we are anxiously waiting while her counts bottom-out. As her white-blood cells, hemoglobin, and platelets decline, we will be going to the outpatient clinic here in Dayton to get blood drawn to keep an eye on things and to get blood transfusions and platelets when needed. The biggest concern now is that Mom's immune system will be compromised and this time, Team Gloria are the nursing staff. Much to Sid's chagrin, not one of the cast of Gray's Anatomy has come home with us! But, Team Gloria are safely ensconced at Sid's house enjoying the views of the trees and the pond from the many windows.
Again, we are in lock-down mode, so as much as we would love to see everyone, it is imperative that we keep Gloria safe from infection. We are happy to receive your love and support via blog, email, mail and phone, so keep it coming! One terrific surprise we had on our arrival home was a brand new set of plants and stepping stones in the garden, all provided by our wonderful neighbors, Tina and Kay, and assisted by our new friends, Elise and Macy, who just moved into the neighborhood. We can't express our gratitude enough!
Lots of love,
Rebecca, Karen, Sidney, and Gloria
Again, we are in lock-down mode, so as much as we would love to see everyone, it is imperative that we keep Gloria safe from infection. We are happy to receive your love and support via blog, email, mail and phone, so keep it coming! One terrific surprise we had on our arrival home was a brand new set of plants and stepping stones in the garden, all provided by our wonderful neighbors, Tina and Kay, and assisted by our new friends, Elise and Macy, who just moved into the neighborhood. We can't express our gratitude enough!
Lots of love,
Rebecca, Karen, Sidney, and Gloria
Sunday, August 12, 2012
The Holiday Is Over
Sorry for the lapse in updates - we've been trying to enjoy every minute of being at home before having to return to The James tomorrow that we haven't posted anything! Here's what's happening:
Last Sunday, Rebecca woke up at 3am (ok, it was actually Monday) with a raging fever. In the morning she was whisked away with a virus to her father's, where she has been cossetted in isolation. We aren't sure what it is but it seems to be presenting itself like Fifth's disease - http://www.cdc.gov/parvovirusb19/fifth-disease.html - fever, headache, body aches, and a rash over her entire body. Needless to say, no one has been enjoying this, least of all Rebecca. In the meantime, Gloria has been feeling well and getting stronger everyday. The only good news about the timing of Rebecca's illness is that Mom was already self-sufficient: cooking, cleaning and even ironing (her favorite Saturday pasttime) for herself and Team Gloria. Karen and Sid have been taking good care of her and Mom has gotten to enjoy some time outside in the beautiful weather we are having!
Mom and Sid are preparing to head back to The James tomorrow for the next round of treatment. Although she isn't super thrilled, she heads back with the knowledge that she is strong and with the experience to know that she can get through this. It also helps that Mom takes with her all of the love and support she has received from all of her friends and family! We'll continue to keep you all abreast of the situation and please continue to send good thoughts and energy our way!!
With much love,
Rebecca, Karen, Sidney and Gloria
Last Sunday, Rebecca woke up at 3am (ok, it was actually Monday) with a raging fever. In the morning she was whisked away with a virus to her father's, where she has been cossetted in isolation. We aren't sure what it is but it seems to be presenting itself like Fifth's disease - http://www.cdc.gov/parvovirusb19/fifth-disease.html - fever, headache, body aches, and a rash over her entire body. Needless to say, no one has been enjoying this, least of all Rebecca. In the meantime, Gloria has been feeling well and getting stronger everyday. The only good news about the timing of Rebecca's illness is that Mom was already self-sufficient: cooking, cleaning and even ironing (her favorite Saturday pasttime) for herself and Team Gloria. Karen and Sid have been taking good care of her and Mom has gotten to enjoy some time outside in the beautiful weather we are having!
Mom and Sid are preparing to head back to The James tomorrow for the next round of treatment. Although she isn't super thrilled, she heads back with the knowledge that she is strong and with the experience to know that she can get through this. It also helps that Mom takes with her all of the love and support she has received from all of her friends and family! We'll continue to keep you all abreast of the situation and please continue to send good thoughts and energy our way!!
With much love,
Rebecca, Karen, Sidney and Gloria
Saturday, August 4, 2012
The Champagne Biopsy
Our first week at home ended on a positive note. On Wednesday, Gloria and Sidney reluctantly made their way back to the James Cancer Center to get the most recent bone marrow biopsy. The team of doctors assured us that Mom's blood work was looking good, showing improvements all around, but that there was a possibility of the leukemia returning with the recovery of her white blood cells. This made us a bit anxious and we were on edge for a few days. On Friday, the results came in and the verdict is....Mom is officially in remission! This helped to put us all at ease.
We are not out of the woods yet but this means that Mom gets to move forward with her treatment. She will re-enter the James on Monday, August 13 to begin the consolidation therapy. This is a fancy term for chemo but this time it is a little easier on the body, as it is a regimen of fewer chemicals at a lower dose. She'll get the chemo for 5 days and then will be in the James recovering, probably for a week or so after that. That means that we'll likely be home again at the end of August.
In the meantime, we are very much enjoying our time together at home. Mom is getting stronger by the minute. Karen and Rebecca are now allowing her to go up and down the stairs alone, and starting this morning, Gloria even got up and made her own breakfast. Rebecca was not too sorry to sleep in a little, and as you can imagine, Mom hates to be pampered, so she didn't mind getting her yogurt for herself. Now she is able to eat whatever she wants and tomorrow she will be free from the antibiotics and the fanny pack. She is particularly thrilled at this prospect. At the moment, she is watering her plants in her bathrobe, bald and beautiful.
Mom and all of Team Gloria want to reiterate our gratitude to everyone who has written, called, etc. It is humbling to be so loved and is helping all of us as we travel this road and all of its uncertainties.
Much love,
Rebecca, Karen, Sidney, and Gloria
We are not out of the woods yet but this means that Mom gets to move forward with her treatment. She will re-enter the James on Monday, August 13 to begin the consolidation therapy. This is a fancy term for chemo but this time it is a little easier on the body, as it is a regimen of fewer chemicals at a lower dose. She'll get the chemo for 5 days and then will be in the James recovering, probably for a week or so after that. That means that we'll likely be home again at the end of August.
In the meantime, we are very much enjoying our time together at home. Mom is getting stronger by the minute. Karen and Rebecca are now allowing her to go up and down the stairs alone, and starting this morning, Gloria even got up and made her own breakfast. Rebecca was not too sorry to sleep in a little, and as you can imagine, Mom hates to be pampered, so she didn't mind getting her yogurt for herself. Now she is able to eat whatever she wants and tomorrow she will be free from the antibiotics and the fanny pack. She is particularly thrilled at this prospect. At the moment, she is watering her plants in her bathrobe, bald and beautiful.
Mom and all of Team Gloria want to reiterate our gratitude to everyone who has written, called, etc. It is humbling to be so loved and is helping all of us as we travel this road and all of its uncertainties.
Much love,
Rebecca, Karen, Sidney, and Gloria
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Having a Break at Home
On Friday afternoon, we suddenly got the news that it was time for Gloria to leave the James Cancer Center. Karen and Rebecca hurriedly packed the room while Gloria prepared to get discharged. This meant getting a new, ahem, less-than-fashionable fanny pack to house her 24-hour infusion penicillin that she has to tote around. Good times. Leaving the hospital was rather surreal for Mom and she even mentioned having a bit of Stockholm Syndrome when she woke up at home on Saturday morning. However, she seems to be getting more used to it, enjoying the daily care and coddling from Team Gloria. She's already showing signs of an improved appetite and seems to be getting stronger by the minute. Having said that, there are still concerns that her white count is fairly low, making her at risk to infection. This means that we are still asking that people don't come over for the time being. We go back to the outpatient clinic on Wednesday for a bone marrow biopsy and will find out when Mom will be re-admitted to the James for consolidation therapy. We will let people know when Mom is ready for visitors.
In the meantime, we are enjoying our time together at home. We've been cooking (Karen made a fantastic pot of chicken soup), relaxing, meditating, watching some television and walking on the treadmill. Karen and Rebecca are taking over from Theresa, who has been taking care of the indoor plants, and Mom's neighbor Tina, who has been taking great care of the outside plants. It has been such a blessing to have their help, and we have been enjoying the fruits of their labor, including this wonderful visitor to the butterfly bush in the backyard.
Much love to all,
Rebecca, Karen and Sidney
In the meantime, we are enjoying our time together at home. We've been cooking (Karen made a fantastic pot of chicken soup), relaxing, meditating, watching some television and walking on the treadmill. Karen and Rebecca are taking over from Theresa, who has been taking care of the indoor plants, and Mom's neighbor Tina, who has been taking great care of the outside plants. It has been such a blessing to have their help, and we have been enjoying the fruits of their labor, including this wonderful visitor to the butterfly bush in the backyard.
Much love to all,
Rebecca, Karen and Sidney
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Onward and Upward
The last few days have been relatively peaceful, despite the diagnosis of vancomycin-resistant enteroccocus (VRE), which has put Mom into isolation. Sounds scary but it just means we have to wear gowns and gloves when in the room, so that we don't take any bacteria to immuno-compromised patients on the floor. In reality, most nurses probably have this bug, so it probably isn't a big deal, and as long as it stays put in her gut we should be good to go. Plus, the best news is that Mom's white blood cell count is slowly creeping up and is now over 500 and her platelets are above normal! As long as there are no more fevers, this means that in a few days we can go home for a few days to allow Mom's bone marrow to recover to the point where she is ready for round two of chemotherapy. Mom is looking forward to being home for a little while. She is starting to look better and feel better, even though she swears she looks like yoda without her hair. She also mentioned something about goblins and elves. Make up your mind Glo!
Thanks again for the continued love and support. Team Gloria is looking forward to a little Dayton time as well, especially the comfort of a real bed!
Much love,
Rebecca, Karen and Sid
Thanks again for the continued love and support. Team Gloria is looking forward to a little Dayton time as well, especially the comfort of a real bed!
Much love,
Rebecca, Karen and Sid
Sunday, July 22, 2012
Stupid Fever!
It's a peaceful Sunday here at The James. Sidney's brother and sister in-law, Nathan and Linda, just left after a very quick visit to their old stomping ground. Both are allergists in California who went to OSU medical school. Gloria enjoyed seeing them very much.
She's keeping her doctors guessing of late, with a low-grade fever that just won't go away. There is a virtual smorgasbord of antibiotics and anti fungal medicines hanging from her IV pole. Karen says it looks like a tree in New Orleans on Ash Wednesday.
Spirits are holding steady most of the time. We are keeping the faith that today's round of tests will bring us the answers we seek. Hope everyone reading is enjoying their day. Thank you for the continual good thoughts, wishes, and prayers. They help immensely.
Much love,
Karen, Rebecca, and Sidney
She's keeping her doctors guessing of late, with a low-grade fever that just won't go away. There is a virtual smorgasbord of antibiotics and anti fungal medicines hanging from her IV pole. Karen says it looks like a tree in New Orleans on Ash Wednesday.
Spirits are holding steady most of the time. We are keeping the faith that today's round of tests will bring us the answers we seek. Hope everyone reading is enjoying their day. Thank you for the continual good thoughts, wishes, and prayers. They help immensely.
Much love,
Karen, Rebecca, and Sidney
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Good News, At Last!
Not too long after our not so good day Gloria got the results from her bone marrow biopsy and it turned out to be good news. The biopsy showed that Mom's bone marrow is free of leukemia cells. So Gloria is officially in remission! The trick now is to keep her there and, of course, to get her white blood cell count up to where she can fight off infection on her own. This means that we will be in the hospital for a few more weeks while she builds up the cells in her bone marrow and has high enough white blood cell, hemoglobin and platelet counts to go home for a week or so. After that, Gloria will have to return to the James in order to get consolidation therapy, which is a 5-day chemotherapy treatment. Cautious optimism is the mood of the Team. Now more than ever do we remain vigilant, keeping Mom free of infection and dealing with the difficult side-effects. Thanks again to everyone for your healing thoughts and prayers! Mom remains determined and though tired, maintains her sense of humor. One example: everytime she has to show the nurses and doctors her rash, she has been telling them that she feels like she is in New Orleans at Mardi Gras and is "showing her tits". Yesterday the alternative therapies nurse, Marjorie, brought some well-deserved Mardi-Gras beads. We are still smiling.
Lots of love and ever optimistic,
Team Gloria
Lots of love and ever optimistic,
Team Gloria
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
When You Are Going Through Hell, Keep Going
Yesterday was the day from hell. Morning started off on the wrong foot, with a fever and hair falling out. Karen said Mom looked like a lady with 17 cats - hair all over her robe. So, she gave Mom a buzz cut. Turns out Gloria looks adorable with a shaved head! Not a big surprise. After her "hair appointment" she had a run in with her TV (bumped her head), which caused her some discomfort. Due to the fever and the rash and some colon issues, lots and lots and lots of things had to be done in order to figure out what's causing all of these symptoms. Karen and Gloria were visited by no fewer than 25 people in one day! She had a chest x-ray, a CT scan of her chest and abdomen, blood draws, a skin biopsy, and a bone-marrow biopsy. Needless to say, she was exhausted. Fortunately, today has been a much calmer day. We've exercised, listened to a meditative chanting cd (thanks Jane!) and had a visit from the alternative therapies/mental health nurse. Let's hope the days to come are more like today and less like the hell from yesterday. Regardless, we'll take Winston Churchill's advice and just keep going.
Friday, July 13, 2012
Oren Kelsey turns 96 today!
Friday the 13th and the birthday of Gloria's father, Oren Kelsey. Happy Birthday Grandpa! Day 10 of our journey and we are still getting along here, although things are starting to get a bit more arduous. Mom is tired and has more symptoms of side-effects from the chemo. There is much sleeping, some reading/listening, and lots of nursing staff visitations. Yesterday Mom got her first blood transfusion, which gave her enough energy to manage two walks around the halls. Dr. Stanford (her IV stand) is still accompanying us, so Gloria is still tethered, which can cause frustration.
Today Robin Miller arrived from Chicago to keep Team Gloria company. It is so nice to see her face and have her entertain us with fun stories of Emma the Dog and Tippy the Turtle. In return, we hope to show Robin the sites of Columbus, including the Olentangy River and German Village. Mom is so thankful for all of the support that she has received from family and friends in the form of comments on the blog, personal emails, jokes, cards, and gifts. Thank you to everyone who has sent their love and support! It hasn't gone unnoticed. Gloria is so exhausted that it is hard for her to respond and send her love. Please know that she is so appreciative and don't be offended if you don't hear back! Your thoughts are so important to her and are helping to buoy her spirits. The rest of Team Gloria also send our love and thanks to all of you for your support! The hazelnuts from Oregon were particularly delicious (So Eat Already!).
Love to all,
Rebecca, Karen, and Sidney
Today Robin Miller arrived from Chicago to keep Team Gloria company. It is so nice to see her face and have her entertain us with fun stories of Emma the Dog and Tippy the Turtle. In return, we hope to show Robin the sites of Columbus, including the Olentangy River and German Village. Mom is so thankful for all of the support that she has received from family and friends in the form of comments on the blog, personal emails, jokes, cards, and gifts. Thank you to everyone who has sent their love and support! It hasn't gone unnoticed. Gloria is so exhausted that it is hard for her to respond and send her love. Please know that she is so appreciative and don't be offended if you don't hear back! Your thoughts are so important to her and are helping to buoy her spirits. The rest of Team Gloria also send our love and thanks to all of you for your support! The hazelnuts from Oregon were particularly delicious (So Eat Already!).
Love to all,
Rebecca, Karen, and Sidney
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Last Day of Induction Therapy
Today is the last day of chemo during this first phase of induction therapy! The bag is almost empty! Yay! Mom is looking forward to being unhooked from her IV stand (for those of you who don't know, we named her Dr. Stanford; she has a personality all of her own, including a PhD in art history - yes, if you must know, it gets boring around here and we come up with various ways to keep ourselves entertained!). Hopefully Gloria will only need to be hooked up on occasion and can be relatively more free to move about. So far, we have enjoyed our wanderings about the hallways in the hospital, but we think it will be even better once Gloria is unencumbered.
Gloria had a wonderful visit from the alternative therapies nurse, Marjorie, who discussed traditional chinese medicine practices and other alternative therapies with us. She performed reflexology and therapeutic touch with Mom. Last night, Mom fell asleep during her guided imagery with Aunt Rebecca, and it seems to help her relax. We are glad to have more tools in the toolbox we can use to help her in the healing process.
Today was a good day although she is starting to feel a little sicker. We are keeping our fingers crossed that it won't get too bad. Fortunately, the staff here is wonderful and will help to keep her from feeling too gross. We did have one surprise which wasn't so fantastic - the shower in her room is leaking into the room below, so we had to change rooms. Not so bad but we are definitely a little more cramped! At least they are keeping us on our toes!
Having Aunt Rebecca here was a gift, both to Gloria and to us. She left today and we miss her already. Here is a cute picture of the sisters.
You can see how much they like to be together. Thanks Auntie! We love you!
Thanks to everyone for your thoughts and prayers, cards and gifts. Mom is overwhelmed by all of the love and is so thankful.
Much love,
Rebecca, Karen, and Sidney
Gloria had a wonderful visit from the alternative therapies nurse, Marjorie, who discussed traditional chinese medicine practices and other alternative therapies with us. She performed reflexology and therapeutic touch with Mom. Last night, Mom fell asleep during her guided imagery with Aunt Rebecca, and it seems to help her relax. We are glad to have more tools in the toolbox we can use to help her in the healing process.
Today was a good day although she is starting to feel a little sicker. We are keeping our fingers crossed that it won't get too bad. Fortunately, the staff here is wonderful and will help to keep her from feeling too gross. We did have one surprise which wasn't so fantastic - the shower in her room is leaking into the room below, so we had to change rooms. Not so bad but we are definitely a little more cramped! At least they are keeping us on our toes!
Having Aunt Rebecca here was a gift, both to Gloria and to us. She left today and we miss her already. Here is a cute picture of the sisters.
You can see how much they like to be together. Thanks Auntie! We love you!
Thanks to everyone for your thoughts and prayers, cards and gifts. Mom is overwhelmed by all of the love and is so thankful.
Much love,
Rebecca, Karen, and Sidney
Sunday, July 8, 2012
Lazy Sunday
Greetings,
It's a rather lazy Sunday here at The James. Gloria has been enjoying her interactions with her nurses and PCA's (Patient Care Assistants), especially those who are recent nursing grads waiting to take the licensing exam. Funny story: one PCA, who grew up in Dayton, was taking her blood pressure, talking about his plans to enter the nursing program at Columbus State. He told her that his mom and two sisters were RNs, and that one had become a dentist...to which Gloria replied, "Betsy?". Yes, she had taught his sister in the early 1990s.
She has also met a couple of nurses from Louisiana, which has made her happy and a little homesick. Karen has remarked that she feels like she's an extra in an episode of "Grey's Anatomy," as one of the requirements for working at The James seems to be that you must not just be lovely on the inside, but good looking as well.
Gloria's doctors seem pleased with how things are going. Things are exactly where they're supposed to be on day six of chemo.
There is a very interesting article on the front page of The New York Times today about gene sequencing treatment for leukemia. While the leukemia mentioned is somewhat different, the gene mutation mentioned is the same. You can read it here:
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/07/08/health/in-gene-sequencing-treatment-for-leukemia-glimpses-of-the-future.html?_r=1&ref=global-home
Love,
Karen, Rebecca, and Sidney
It's a rather lazy Sunday here at The James. Gloria has been enjoying her interactions with her nurses and PCA's (Patient Care Assistants), especially those who are recent nursing grads waiting to take the licensing exam. Funny story: one PCA, who grew up in Dayton, was taking her blood pressure, talking about his plans to enter the nursing program at Columbus State. He told her that his mom and two sisters were RNs, and that one had become a dentist...to which Gloria replied, "Betsy?". Yes, she had taught his sister in the early 1990s.
She has also met a couple of nurses from Louisiana, which has made her happy and a little homesick. Karen has remarked that she feels like she's an extra in an episode of "Grey's Anatomy," as one of the requirements for working at The James seems to be that you must not just be lovely on the inside, but good looking as well.
Gloria's doctors seem pleased with how things are going. Things are exactly where they're supposed to be on day six of chemo.
There is a very interesting article on the front page of The New York Times today about gene sequencing treatment for leukemia. While the leukemia mentioned is somewhat different, the gene mutation mentioned is the same. You can read it here:
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/07/08/health/in-gene-sequencing-treatment-for-leukemia-glimpses-of-the-future.html?_r=1&ref=global-home
Love,
Karen, Rebecca, and Sidney
Friday, July 6, 2012
Hump-Day
Greetings everyone! It is day 4 - halfway through the first round of chemotherapy. So far Gloria is doing very well with the treatment. She is up and about, cute as ever (yes, her outfit is matching), and her sense of humor is intact. Of course, Karen is keeping us all in stitches! Aunt Rebecca, Gloria's little sister, arrived yesterday and is staying for a few days. It has been good for them to be together - meditating and doing guided imagery. Mom decided that the battle metaphor is not for her. Instead, she has chosen to tell her blastocysts that they are no longer needed on the team, and that, while they may have been trying hard to do a good job, they will have to be let go and replaced by healthier cells. A calmer and quieter metaphor to help her with her healing process.
Niece Erin also arrived from Chicago for a visit to help Team Goldman. Sidney is enjoying all of the female company. Thanks to everyone for the positive vibes! Mom is really enjoying reading the posts, so keep 'em coming!
Love,
Rebecca, Karen, and Sidney
Niece Erin also arrived from Chicago for a visit to help Team Goldman. Sidney is enjoying all of the female company. Thanks to everyone for the positive vibes! Mom is really enjoying reading the posts, so keep 'em coming!
Love,
Rebecca, Karen, and Sidney
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
Opening Ceremony
Updates from the battleground....
On Monday, Gloria and Sidney checked into the James Cancer Center http://cancer.osu.edu/Pages/index.aspx in Columbus. Day one was relatively straightforward...meeting the Blue Team, answering a plethora of questions and getting settled into her private room (she started out in a double but it didn't take long to help the staff realize their mistake). Monday afternoon Mom met with the doctors to talk about her treatment and found out that she is eligible for a clinical trial. The clinical trial is for leukemia that shows an FLT-3 mutation on the chromosome. The treatment is a drug called Sorafenib, which is given in addition to the routine induction chemotherapy. Gloria has decided to take part in the trial. Sorafenib is a drug that has been proven effective in the fight against other cancers, and has shown promise in helping leukemia patients get into remission. It goes without saying, we are all routing for this to happen!
On Tuesday morning Gloria and Sid woke to more activity. Morning consisted of getting her prepped for her day, and in the early afternoon she was whisked away for the team to put in her central line and do an echocardiogram. Everyone here is so very impressed with Gloria's good health and spirits! By late evening, the team started Mom on her chemotherapy treatments. She will be given this treatment for the next 7 days, and then will be allowed to recover as we monitor her progress with remission. Given the holiday (Happy 4th of July everyone!), Downtown Columbus was ablaze with the red, white and boom fireworks, and Gloria's room had a terrific view. We decided that this was the opening ceremony for the battle, cheering the chemo on to victory against the blastocytes! Go Go Go!!! (Thanks Alison, we are adopting your cheer!)
We are all encouraged by the team of doctors and nurses. Everyone is so nice and compassionate, as well as competent and reliable. We'll keep you posted as things progress. Thanks to everyone for your wonderful comments and support! If you are having trouble posting comments to the blog, feel free to just send an email to effleukemia@gmail.com. Also, several people have asked where they can send cards. Please send them to Mom's home address. One of us will deliver them to her directly.
Love,
Rebecca, Karen and Sidney
On Monday, Gloria and Sidney checked into the James Cancer Center http://cancer.osu.edu/Pages/index.aspx in Columbus. Day one was relatively straightforward...meeting the Blue Team, answering a plethora of questions and getting settled into her private room (she started out in a double but it didn't take long to help the staff realize their mistake). Monday afternoon Mom met with the doctors to talk about her treatment and found out that she is eligible for a clinical trial. The clinical trial is for leukemia that shows an FLT-3 mutation on the chromosome. The treatment is a drug called Sorafenib, which is given in addition to the routine induction chemotherapy. Gloria has decided to take part in the trial. Sorafenib is a drug that has been proven effective in the fight against other cancers, and has shown promise in helping leukemia patients get into remission. It goes without saying, we are all routing for this to happen!
On Tuesday morning Gloria and Sid woke to more activity. Morning consisted of getting her prepped for her day, and in the early afternoon she was whisked away for the team to put in her central line and do an echocardiogram. Everyone here is so very impressed with Gloria's good health and spirits! By late evening, the team started Mom on her chemotherapy treatments. She will be given this treatment for the next 7 days, and then will be allowed to recover as we monitor her progress with remission. Given the holiday (Happy 4th of July everyone!), Downtown Columbus was ablaze with the red, white and boom fireworks, and Gloria's room had a terrific view. We decided that this was the opening ceremony for the battle, cheering the chemo on to victory against the blastocytes! Go Go Go!!! (Thanks Alison, we are adopting your cheer!)
We are all encouraged by the team of doctors and nurses. Everyone is so nice and compassionate, as well as competent and reliable. We'll keep you posted as things progress. Thanks to everyone for your wonderful comments and support! If you are having trouble posting comments to the blog, feel free to just send an email to effleukemia@gmail.com. Also, several people have asked where they can send cards. Please send them to Mom's home address. One of us will deliver them to her directly.
Love,
Rebecca, Karen and Sidney
Thursday, June 28, 2012
F Leukemia Big Time
Hi everyone.
We've decided to create this blog so we can keep you posted about the goings-on in our world right now.
If you're reading this, you obviously have heard that the brilliant, amazing, lovely, incredible (etc. etc.) Gloria has leukemia. To be specific, she has Acute Myeloid Leukemia. You can read a little bit about it here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acute_myeloid_leukemia
We're not really reading much about it, as we've decided to listen to her doctors instead.
She was diagnosed almost by accident, having gone to see another doctor about a pain in her wrist that she thought might be arthritis. Ironically, it was only tendonitis caused by repetitive movements in Pilates. Kitty, if you're reading this, Gloria loves Pilates and is going to miss it very much.
Her doctor ordered a routine CBC (complete blood count) to make sure everything was OK. And that was the beginning of our new "normal".
Gloria has decided to seek treatment at The James Cancer Center: http://cancer.osu.edu/Pages/index.aspx. Right now, treatment is scheduled to begin this Monday, July 2. As she will be living there for at least the next 4-6 weeks, we will be taking turns staying with her around the clock.
Many of you have asked how you can help. Please know that we love being surrounded by such an incredible group of family and friends, but due to her compromised immune system, we are currently limiting Gloria's exposure to the outside world of germy things. Encouraging emails, texts, notes and prayers are always welcome. Visits, unless specifically requested by a family member, are, regretfully, discouraged. Thankfully, we live in a time of great electronic prowess, and we can keep you in the loop easily.
Gloria is otherwise a very healthy, mighty individual who is prepared to fight with all she has. And those who love her will do everything in our power to help her with this battle.
And although she's probably not thrilled that we are writing this, we also encourage those of you who want to yell the "F" word at leukemia at the top of your lungs. Sometimes that feels really good to say.
Much love,
Karen, Rebecca, and Sidney
We've decided to create this blog so we can keep you posted about the goings-on in our world right now.
If you're reading this, you obviously have heard that the brilliant, amazing, lovely, incredible (etc. etc.) Gloria has leukemia. To be specific, she has Acute Myeloid Leukemia. You can read a little bit about it here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acute_myeloid_leukemia
We're not really reading much about it, as we've decided to listen to her doctors instead.
She was diagnosed almost by accident, having gone to see another doctor about a pain in her wrist that she thought might be arthritis. Ironically, it was only tendonitis caused by repetitive movements in Pilates. Kitty, if you're reading this, Gloria loves Pilates and is going to miss it very much.
Her doctor ordered a routine CBC (complete blood count) to make sure everything was OK. And that was the beginning of our new "normal".
Gloria has decided to seek treatment at The James Cancer Center: http://cancer.osu.edu/Pages/index.aspx. Right now, treatment is scheduled to begin this Monday, July 2. As she will be living there for at least the next 4-6 weeks, we will be taking turns staying with her around the clock.
Many of you have asked how you can help. Please know that we love being surrounded by such an incredible group of family and friends, but due to her compromised immune system, we are currently limiting Gloria's exposure to the outside world of germy things. Encouraging emails, texts, notes and prayers are always welcome. Visits, unless specifically requested by a family member, are, regretfully, discouraged. Thankfully, we live in a time of great electronic prowess, and we can keep you in the loop easily.
Gloria is otherwise a very healthy, mighty individual who is prepared to fight with all she has. And those who love her will do everything in our power to help her with this battle.
And although she's probably not thrilled that we are writing this, we also encourage those of you who want to yell the "F" word at leukemia at the top of your lungs. Sometimes that feels really good to say.
Much love,
Karen, Rebecca, and Sidney
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