JUNE 9, 2010 OUR MIRACLE
Dearest Friends & Family ~
We are very hopeful that this will be the very last post on this blog....... So much has happened since March ~ in just three short months. We will encapsulate the events to make this easier to get through:
In January & February Dee refused further Chemo treatments. In April she was so depressed that she swallowed some 'additional' prescription medication and was admitted to UCSD Medical Center Sr. Behavioral Health Center; where she was diagnosed with Delusional Depression triggered by the Chemotherapy. It was a heartbreaking experience, especially for Bernie Sr. The hospitalization was necessary for both her mental and physical recovery. Her stay there was fraught with various problems, ranging from an allergic reaction to various treatments for infections. Even through these set-backs the treatment was extremely effective and she was discharged from the hospital on May 21st. She and Bernie are currently staying at their grand daughter Misty's home temporarily.
Following her discharge, an appointment with the Oncologist, Dr. Curtin, was made. He decided that so much time had elapsed since her last treatment in January, that a reassessment was in order. A PT & CAT Scan, An Omaya Reservoir Tap (spinal fluid) & an MRI were ordered. These tests were completed rather quickly and an appointment was set to receive the test results, on June 9th.
That news was an absolute and resounding MIRACLE. There was NO EVIDENCE, other than some scar tissue left in her skull, of the Lymphoma. We just sat there and cried when the Dr. gave us the news. It was an overwhelming and precious moment when we heard the word REMISSION come out of the Dr.'s mouth. The pic-line in her arm was removed and the nurse wrote a note on her discharge documents "Must take patient out to a fancy dinner to celebrate!".
THANK YOU LORD, THANK YOU!!! Thank You and heartfelt Hugs to our friends & family for your consistent prayers for her and for us. Through this process, we have seen constant evidence of the power of those prayers and the power and the glory of the love that the Lord has for us. It is incredible and so very amazing to witness that love in action over and over again. We are humbled by it. We are also humbled by the demonstrations of love and concern which flowed from our friends and family members. Most of the former group should actually fit in the latter, as that is how Dee and Bernie feel about you anyway.
The next step is a blood panel in two weeks followed by a visit to Dr. Curtin in a month. In the meantime Dee will have her eyes examined at UCSD Shiley Eye Center as her vision has obviously been effected by the Lymphoma. Following her visit with Dr. Curtin, she will be released with follow-up visits scheduled every 3 to 4 months to be sure she stays in remission.
Words cannot express how fortunate, No, how truly BLESSED, we feel ~ How we've been touched in immeasurable ways by the power of love ~ the Lord's and yours. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts. May God continue to bless you, and your families, in equal measure to the ones that have been bestowed upon us.
Our Love Always,
The Marcotte Family
Bernie Sr., Dee, Mary, Bernie, Kim, Kurt and Amy, and their families ~
March 10, 2010 ~ Thank You Lord!!!!!
Dee's appointment with her Oncologist to review the results of her Lumbar Puncture and Vetebra Biopsies was today. There are no words to express the overwhelming feelings that came flooding through us when the Dr. reported that there was NO SIGN OF CANCER in either test. THANK YOU LORD!!!! You are indeed a merciful and faithful God! THANK YOU to EVERYONE who prayed and petitioned him for these results ~ The Lymphoma in her lower body has been treated successfully! ~ It is only through prayer and the Lord's work that this is possible. We are very blessed to have so many loving family members, friends and acquintances who have wrapped Dee up in their prayers and lifted her to the Lord.
So, where do we go next?? Dr. Curtin would like to administer two more doses of a different type of Chemo through Dee's pic line (for her lower body) in order to be absolutely sure that there will be no more Lymphoma. Then, at some point in the near future she will continue the regime of Chemo, via the Omaya Resevoir, to her skull. That, as mentioned in an earlier post, has approximately 12-15 treatments in a round; So, futher treatment will be needed to eradicate any sign of cancer there. The Dr. and we are hopeful that this will be the case. In the meantime, her confusion/delusions remain. Dee will be seeing a Neuro-Physchiatrist to determine exactly what is happening to cause this condition. We anxiously await this appointment, as in some respects this has been the most difficult part for most members of our family to cope with. Her inablility to functionally participate in the decisions concerning her own treatment are difficult at best, especially for Bernie, Sr. We have the utmost faith that this is a temporary condition and with the help of the specialist, will soon be understood and treated. Overall, the news has been the very best kind on every level and we could not be more elated. We are in the final rounds now, so ~ keep the prayers flowing!!
Bernie, with Dee's doctors permission, is taking her to Phoenix for a short visit. It will be good for them both to have a change of scene and be in their own surroudings for a few days. We pray for their travels and hope that the trip refreshes and restores their spirits.
Thank you to everyone who has prayed for us; who has supported us; who have written, called and emailed. Your love and caring is an irreplaceable gift that is treasured beyond words. God Bless You ~ Love, The Marcotte Family
So, where do we go next?? Dr. Curtin would like to administer two more doses of a different type of Chemo through Dee's pic line (for her lower body) in order to be absolutely sure that there will be no more Lymphoma. Then, at some point in the near future she will continue the regime of Chemo, via the Omaya Resevoir, to her skull. That, as mentioned in an earlier post, has approximately 12-15 treatments in a round; So, futher treatment will be needed to eradicate any sign of cancer there. The Dr. and we are hopeful that this will be the case. In the meantime, her confusion/delusions remain. Dee will be seeing a Neuro-Physchiatrist to determine exactly what is happening to cause this condition. We anxiously await this appointment, as in some respects this has been the most difficult part for most members of our family to cope with. Her inablility to functionally participate in the decisions concerning her own treatment are difficult at best, especially for Bernie, Sr. We have the utmost faith that this is a temporary condition and with the help of the specialist, will soon be understood and treated. Overall, the news has been the very best kind on every level and we could not be more elated. We are in the final rounds now, so ~ keep the prayers flowing!!
Bernie, with Dee's doctors permission, is taking her to Phoenix for a short visit. It will be good for them both to have a change of scene and be in their own surroudings for a few days. We pray for their travels and hope that the trip refreshes and restores their spirits.
Thank you to everyone who has prayed for us; who has supported us; who have written, called and emailed. Your love and caring is an irreplaceable gift that is treasured beyond words. God Bless You ~ Love, The Marcotte Family
March 3, 2010 - TESTS COMPLETED
The vetebra biopsies and lumbar puncture tests have been completed. Dee was placed under general anesthesia and the tests were taken. She recovered well and is not experincing too much discomfort. The results should be available on Monday. We are praying that the areas that were illuminating are cancer free. Thank you for your prayers as well with respect to the results. We have never needed them more.
Love and God's Blessings ~
The Marcottes
Love and God's Blessings ~
The Marcottes
February 24, 2010 - RESULTS
First and foremost, we must thank those of you who have and continue to pray for Dee and for our family. Without those prayers and your constant show of love and support, going through this experience would be so much more difficult. However, it has been extremely difficult, especially in the last few days while waiting for crucial test results, to field calls from those that indicate that they have heard the most dire and dreadful news from others regarding our Mother. This is distressing and exhausting as we have worked very diligently to keep everyone current. The reason that this blog was created was to share the most accurate information possible so that everyone would know exactly what was happening at the same time. We have asked everyone to share the blog information with those you know who do not have computers. And, although the last couple of posts have been further apart, there just wasn't a significant change in her condition or treatment to warrant daily or weekly updates. Once again, we would encourage everyone to share the blog with those friends or family members that do not have access to it, so that the news shared is accurate and we do not receive calls that cause further distress to our family. It only makes our emotional load that much heavier. Thank you for understanding and hope that we cause no offense. We do realize that the calls are made out of love and concern and that is most appreciated.
Secondly, the current situation is as follows:
With respect to the test results ~ the MRI indicated that the Chemo treatments (5 currently) through the Omaya Resevoir have indicated success. The typical treatment course is about 15 treatments. After only 5 Dee's lymphoma has not showed any sign of progression, which is good. The Oncologist believes that the results were encouraging and after the remaining course of treatment will indeed be equally as successful as her spinal fluid still does not indicate the presence of lymphoma. She will have a lumbar puncture in her back to check that fluid as well, but the Dr. seemed fairly certain that the fluid from that region would be clear as well. The Dr. ruled out any growth of the old or any new lymphoma, which confirms his conclusion that Dee's confusion and delusions are caused by the drugs that are being administered in her head. Further, her intolerance and sensitivity to almost any medication has excerbated this condition.
The PET scan of her body indicated that the lymphoma that was previously present in various lymph nodes throughout her body have been successfully treated after 4 treatments. They are virtually non-existent. The standard course of treatment is 6 to 8 treatments for RCHOP Chemotherapy. The lymphoma present in her spine is still illuminating in 4 vertebra, which may indicate a progression of the lymphoma in her spine. So, further testing (a Biopsy on some of the vertebra) will be needed to either confirm or deny the presence of lymphoma there. There are several additional conditions which may also be causing the illumination on the vertebra, such as scar tissue for instance.
We believe that overall the test results were encouraging and pray that the next series of tests will also hold the same positive findings. This is what we are concentrating our prayers on and ask that you will do the same.
With respect to the family condition ~ As we are sure you are aware, a grave illness is one the most harrowing situations a family can encounter. We are no different ~ we run the gamut ~ emotional, mental, and physical stress is constantly present. Bernie has remained constant and caring of his wife, but the stress has taken quite a toll, even with the help he has received from other family members. Please pray that he can continue to remain strong and hopeful, as we follow the difficult path that this journey takes us on. His emotional well being and strength directly impact the success of Dee's recovery.
Dee's physical and mental condition from all outward appearances would probably alarm most of you. Having intimately traveled this journey with her ~ it is apparent to us that she is going through exactly what all of the doctors told us to expect. She can survive, but the path to get there will be extremely rough. Dee is an exceptionally strong woman ~ as much as she's been through she is actually doing better than anyone gives her credit for. She has made it this far without further hospitalization, she eats well and is up and walking around. The fact that she could do any of these things is proof of that ~ the fact that she is doing them all gives us tremendous hope in her ability to be victorious.
Thank you again for everything ~ the blessings you have bestowed on our family are so very much appreciated.
Secondly, the current situation is as follows:
With respect to the test results ~ the MRI indicated that the Chemo treatments (5 currently) through the Omaya Resevoir have indicated success. The typical treatment course is about 15 treatments. After only 5 Dee's lymphoma has not showed any sign of progression, which is good. The Oncologist believes that the results were encouraging and after the remaining course of treatment will indeed be equally as successful as her spinal fluid still does not indicate the presence of lymphoma. She will have a lumbar puncture in her back to check that fluid as well, but the Dr. seemed fairly certain that the fluid from that region would be clear as well. The Dr. ruled out any growth of the old or any new lymphoma, which confirms his conclusion that Dee's confusion and delusions are caused by the drugs that are being administered in her head. Further, her intolerance and sensitivity to almost any medication has excerbated this condition.
The PET scan of her body indicated that the lymphoma that was previously present in various lymph nodes throughout her body have been successfully treated after 4 treatments. They are virtually non-existent. The standard course of treatment is 6 to 8 treatments for RCHOP Chemotherapy. The lymphoma present in her spine is still illuminating in 4 vertebra, which may indicate a progression of the lymphoma in her spine. So, further testing (a Biopsy on some of the vertebra) will be needed to either confirm or deny the presence of lymphoma there. There are several additional conditions which may also be causing the illumination on the vertebra, such as scar tissue for instance.
We believe that overall the test results were encouraging and pray that the next series of tests will also hold the same positive findings. This is what we are concentrating our prayers on and ask that you will do the same.
With respect to the family condition ~ As we are sure you are aware, a grave illness is one the most harrowing situations a family can encounter. We are no different ~ we run the gamut ~ emotional, mental, and physical stress is constantly present. Bernie has remained constant and caring of his wife, but the stress has taken quite a toll, even with the help he has received from other family members. Please pray that he can continue to remain strong and hopeful, as we follow the difficult path that this journey takes us on. His emotional well being and strength directly impact the success of Dee's recovery.
Dee's physical and mental condition from all outward appearances would probably alarm most of you. Having intimately traveled this journey with her ~ it is apparent to us that she is going through exactly what all of the doctors told us to expect. She can survive, but the path to get there will be extremely rough. Dee is an exceptionally strong woman ~ as much as she's been through she is actually doing better than anyone gives her credit for. She has made it this far without further hospitalization, she eats well and is up and walking around. The fact that she could do any of these things is proof of that ~ the fact that she is doing them all gives us tremendous hope in her ability to be victorious.
Thank you again for everything ~ the blessings you have bestowed on our family are so very much appreciated.
February 21, 2010 ~ REASSESSMENT
Dear Friends and Family ~ Here we are with another month passed. Actually, until just recently there hasn't been too much activity. Since our last post Dee has had her 4th round of R CHOP Chemo and two rounds via the Omaya in her head. Relatively speaking she has physically passed through all treatments with flying colors. Her blood work has come back well and she's received potassium and some additional blood, which are normal procedures in the "after-treatment" care. Dee is eating well and is mobile, but still suffers from depression and delusions. A meeting with the Psychiatrist, specializing in these types of patients, resulted in his assessment that Dee's mental condition is solely Chemo related. After experiencing her hyper-sensitivity to all other medications, including sleep aids, it would stand to reason that this is the case. It has been extremely difficult for Bernie as, in this state, she has refused her last R CHOP treatment. Therefore, delaying the process and her eventual return to a clearer thought process. At this point, her Oncologist, Dr. Curtin, has decided to do a reassessment of her condition and the success of the treatments that she's been given. So, all treatments have been temporarily halted for additional tests. An MRI and a PET Scan have been completed and we are going back for the results next Tuesday. We would ask that you pray for favorable results, as it would truly be a blessing to have the veil of unknown fear, surrounding both Dee and Bernie, lifted. At this point the entire family is in need of positive news as it would offer some light at what has seemed to be a very long tunnel and would substantiate our feelings that she is actually responding quite well to the treatments. Although we feel she is progressing well and we remain positive in our feelings about her recovery, occasionally it is a challenge to keep spirits lifted. Thank you to the Mullins and Rheaults, family friends, that have come on separate occasions from Oregon to visit Dee and Bernie. You will never know how much that meant to our family. God Bless You and everyone else for your constant show of support and never ending prayers. We especially need them now. An update will be posted on Tuesday, sharing the news. Until then, we once again ask you to keep us close in prayer. Much love and God's Blessings ~ from the Marcotte Family.
January 19, 2010 - Update
Dear Friends and Family ~
Happy 2010 to you all! Our apologies for not updating the blog sooner. Holiday travel and activities got in the way and then there really hadn't been much change in Dee's condition since the last post. She will have her 4th round of RChop Chemo through her pic-line tomorrow. She has had 5 treatments through the Omaya Resevoir in her head. Dee is responding very well to treatment physically and is experiencing the typical things that happen as a result. Low Blood counts which sometimes require blood transfusions; low potassium counts, low blood pressure, etc. All side effects are easily corrected; including the infrequent bouts of nausea , which is kept under control by a prescription drug. She is now however, experiencing quite a bit of anxiety and has slipped into a depressive state. We ask that you will pray that Dee stay strong mentally and spiritually so that she is able to assist her body in its effort to heal. The cards, letters and emails have meant so much to her and really have lifted her spirits as she loves hearing from everyone. If you have a moment to drop her a line or send an email we certainly appreciate it. We also received news that Bernie's brother, John Marcotte, passed away early this morning, so that has also very much affected her mental state. Please continue the prayers for my Mom ~as they are definitely felt. We would also ask you to include a prayer for Uncle John's family as well. He was such a special man and we know that he is in a better place in heaven with our Father. We will all miss him terribly and know that his family will feel a keen emptiness in their hearts that only time and the Lord can fill. Thank you so very much for this and for your ever-present thoughts and prayers for our family. May 2010 be an especially blessed one for each of you and your families. Our love, Bernie, Dee, Mary, Bernie Jr., Kim, Kurt and Amy.
Happy 2010 to you all! Our apologies for not updating the blog sooner. Holiday travel and activities got in the way and then there really hadn't been much change in Dee's condition since the last post. She will have her 4th round of RChop Chemo through her pic-line tomorrow. She has had 5 treatments through the Omaya Resevoir in her head. Dee is responding very well to treatment physically and is experiencing the typical things that happen as a result. Low Blood counts which sometimes require blood transfusions; low potassium counts, low blood pressure, etc. All side effects are easily corrected; including the infrequent bouts of nausea , which is kept under control by a prescription drug. She is now however, experiencing quite a bit of anxiety and has slipped into a depressive state. We ask that you will pray that Dee stay strong mentally and spiritually so that she is able to assist her body in its effort to heal. The cards, letters and emails have meant so much to her and really have lifted her spirits as she loves hearing from everyone. If you have a moment to drop her a line or send an email we certainly appreciate it. We also received news that Bernie's brother, John Marcotte, passed away early this morning, so that has also very much affected her mental state. Please continue the prayers for my Mom ~as they are definitely felt. We would also ask you to include a prayer for Uncle John's family as well. He was such a special man and we know that he is in a better place in heaven with our Father. We will all miss him terribly and know that his family will feel a keen emptiness in their hearts that only time and the Lord can fill. Thank you so very much for this and for your ever-present thoughts and prayers for our family. May 2010 be an especially blessed one for each of you and your families. Our love, Bernie, Dee, Mary, Bernie Jr., Kim, Kurt and Amy.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)