Christmas Update

Hello Everyone! I hope you had a wonderful Christmas!!

When I was little, I was always told to count my blessings. I think now, as I have 1 month left in my 20s, I finally completely understand what that means and how to apply it to my life.

Blessing #1: My hubby. God hit me over the head a few times to make sure I was listening about this guy. He surely is my soul-mate. He keeps me laughing and holds me when I cry. I appreciate him so much. And, he bought me an iPad. Who couldn’t love a person who presents you with an iPad…. Love that guy!

Blessing #15: My family. Parents, Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, siblings, cousins, in-laws, extended family, friends who become family…. I have surrounded myself with people who I can learn from everyday, people who inspire me, people who live their life in ways that continue to amaze me.

The most amazing to me, is my Dad. He’s a rock. As time goes on, he continues to improve. He is done with Chemo and Radiation… all that’s left now is recovery.

RECOVERY! What a blessing. The ability to just get there… I’m in awe.

Christmas was an emotional day for me. This was my first Christmas since my brother was born 22 years ago that I didn’t get to see him. You take it for granted. For all that my brother has been through… I was so proud of his choice of activity for Christmas day… Snowboarding. Genius. Blessing # 23- Jeff’s sobriety and happiness.

Dad was able to make it all Christmas festivities on Christmas Eve and Day. He and Mom went to a candle light service on Christmas Eve and they realized through many attempts that Mom is going to have to blow out candles for Dad for the foreseeable future. Seems he tried and tried, but couldn’t blow it out. And he chuckled as he and Mom told the story. Blessing #45- Dad’s attitude. Blessing #46- My Mom (period).

Mom took the reins to make sure that Dad was comfortable and they stuck to a strict time schedule to ensure Dad didn’t get tired out on Christmas Day. We spent the day with Mom’s side of the family at my Aunt Vicki’s house. So much tradition in all that we do on the Demarest side: Dinner, presents, dessert, overall merriment and great conversations. I love this time, we have a big family and I don’t get to see them as often as I’d like. The ones that live close, we make an effort to see one another very often. But the ones that have moved away, the holidays are the only time I see them and I cherish it. Plus we get calendars that are hand selected by our Grandma… it’s a “bowling ball” tradition. Blessing #53- TIME.

Dad filled his plate and ate a little of everything. His throat is still really sore from everything it’s been through. He is still getting the majority of his nutrition from his feeding tube, but he is making the effort. Blessing #60-Dad’s ability to maintain his weight.

After the amazing time at my Aunt Vicki’s, we headed over to Granny’s house to see the Coady side of the family. I look forward to this every year. Dad’s side of the family is spread out from New England to LA. This is an improvement in the logistics because at the beginning of the year, my uncle was still living in Mexico and my cousin in Belgium. Luckily, all have moved back to the US of A. Now, unfortunately, we don’t get to see the majority of the family as they are spread out so much but those of us who live close to the DFW area get together, catch up, tell stories and eat goodies prepared by my Granny. Dad is the most relaxed in this environment, with his Mom and his brother… relaxing and smiling… piping in when asked a question… Mom has gotten really good at reading his thoughts. Yes, his thoughts. Sometimes, he doesn’t have to mouth what he’s thinking, Mom guesses, and he agrees. I guess that comes with spending the majority of your life with the same person. Mom and Dad have been together for about 45 years, since they were 15 and 16 years old.

It was a wonderful time. My cousin Danielle is getting married in January and I am looking forward to getting to see them on a non-national holiday!!

And finally blessing #12305- Dad said “Hello” yesterday.

I didn’t get to hear it. Mom texted me about it. But I cried. It’s amazing how powerful the ability to speak or not speak can be. I have no idea what it sounds like. I can still hear my Dad’s voice in my head. It’s stronger when he hugs me. “Love you, sweetheart” is what I hear. Those were the last words my Dad said to me as he was wheeled away into surgery back in September. But it resonated and I know that’s what he’s mouthing when I see him. And hopefully I’ll get to hear those words again, in his new voice.

So… Keep the prayers coming. God is BIG ENOUGH and he is taking care of this family. Blessing #12306- God’s love.

And to quote my previous update: please continue to pray for comfort and strength for my Dad as he heals. Pray that food becomes appealing again. Pray that his throat heals with little to no scar tissue. And please say a prayer for my Mom. She is the epitome of strength and sacrifice. If you were to ask her, she'd say she's doing nothing that my Dad wouldn't do for her. Nothing that is out of the ordinary of what one caring person does for another. But I know better, and I am so grateful to know her, love her, and call her my Mama.

My Dad is continuing his fight and words can not express how proud I am of him.

So in his words, "Thank you. Keep the prayers coming. It will take a while but it will get better. Love you too."

Dad finished Chemo!!!!

Well, I guess it's time for an update! Is that an understatement? Oh well...

Dad finished chemo last week! I was texting with my mom today. I thought he had one more to go. I thought Wednesday was his last day and when she told me it was over, I started crying. I am so elated for them! So grateful and I just became overwhelmed with emotion.

He will finish with radiation on Tuesday. I asked Mom what was next and she said healing and check ups, which brought on more tears. Don't get me wrong, we are not out of the woods yet.

Dad is tired and sore. Food does not taste good, nor is it at all appealing. His throat hurts so much that I think there is no comparison. He still has the tube in his stomach and that is how he is getting most of his nutrition.

I texted with Dad today. I told him I was praying for him and he told me to keep them coming, so I am. And I am asking that you do the same.

Pray for comfort and strength for my Dad as he heals. Pray that food becomes appealing again. Pray that his throat heals with little to no scar tissue. And please say a prayer for my Mom. She is the epitome of strength and sacrifice. If you were to ask her, she'd say she's doing nothing that my Dad wouldn't do for her. Nothing that is out of the ordinary of what one caring person does for another. But I know better, and I am so grateful to know her, love her, and call her my Mama.

My Dad is continuing his fight and words can not express how proud I am of him.

So in his words, "Thank you. Keep the prayers coming. It will take a while but it will get better. Love you too."


Sorry for any typos, I used my thumbs on my iPhone!

Daddy started chemo

Wanted to let you know that Dad started Radiation and Chemo last week. Mom said that he is doing really well. He is just tired. Please continue to pray for our family and my Daddy as he continues this fight.

AND.... GO RANGERS!!!

Hold that thought...

Ok, so Dad is not starting Radiation and Chemo today. He has to see an oral surgeon before he can start. That is just part of the protocol. His appointment with the surgeon is tomorrow and we will see if anything has to be done. My understanding is that you can't get dental treatments while you are undergoing Chemo, so they make sure all is good in that department before they start.

Hopefully Chemo and Radiation will start next week. Please continue to pray for our family. We are "tough old birds" but relay a lot on our faith and strength from others.

Kevin is having a procedure on his back today around noon. Nothing major. He has a bulging disc and has been in A LOT of pain. It's getting better but still there. It's hard for him to sit down for long periods of time and it was difficult for him to sleep for a while. Praying this will help. Any prayers sent his way will be greatly appreciated!!

LOVE YOU ALL!!

Coady Clan Update

Hello Everyone!!!

Thought it was time for an Arlington Coady Clan update. We are all doing very well! :) I guess I should start with Dad, as I am sure you all want to know how he's doing. He makes this whole thing look like a breeze. He's taking everything a day at a time and he is just in the best of spirits. Two weekends ago, Granny had us over to dinner to see my Uncle Marty. Uncle Marty and Tina are moving from Mexico to North Carolina. It's a long trip and they are being so smart by breaking up the drive with stops to see family and friends.

We had a great dinner, complete with Graham cracker pie, be jealous you didn't get any because it's delicious!! Some people seemed to be surprised by how normal things are. My Dad can eat regular foods and even drink a little wine. He doesn't really enjoy beer anymore. He said all he tastes is the foam, but Merlot still taste good to him. Mom said that coffee still taste good too. :)

We had the best time talking to Granny and Uncle Marty and catching up. Uncle Marty was really excited to see my car in person!! Dad does really well with conversations by writing most of comments down on his white board, and we can read his lips pretty well. He doesn't have a tight enough seal around his trach to really be using his new larnyx but I think that's something they are going to deal with after radiation.

Dad starts chemo and radiation this week. I guess the pathology results came back as expected because they are moving forward. As for what those results are, we don't know. They just said they got them back and they were on par with what they thought they would say. So chemo and radiation it is.

Dad will have 6 ½ weeks of radiation starting this Wednesday and should be finished right before Thanksgiving if all goes according to plan. Chemo also starts on Wednesday... he’ll have Chemo once a week, on Wednesdays and radiation is everyday. He gets to go home everyday.. Radiation is only about 10 to 15 mins long but it is in Fort Worth so they'll have to make that drive everyday for the next 6 weeks. Chemo is a little longer.. like 4-5 hours. So Wednesday's are going to be tough days.

It’s going to be difficult to continue to eat during radiation because his esophagus is going to be so sore. He does still have the feeding tube in his stomach. But they want him to continue eating because if he doesn't scar tissue will form. It is going to difficult, but as with everything, Dad is taking it in stride. 1 day at a time.

One change he is planning to make is he’s going to go back to the trach that has a collar that goes around his neck during radiation. The one he wears now.. blends in very well, but if he wears it during radiation, it will tattoo his skin with a circle around the trach and we think Jeff has enough tattoos for all of us!

Speaking of Jeff, he is also doing AMAZING! Mom and Dad are driving home from Colorado as I type this. They went to visit Jeff and take him his dog Supa, as he is now living in an apartment that allows animals. Dad drove a lot of the trip and was driving when I talked to Mom about 30 minutes ago.

Supa was being trained while Dad was in the hospital. They had a short window to go see Jeff and take Supa to him and a microwave for his new place.
Mom said it was snowing in Colorado Springs, almost a white out. They were only in Colorado 22 hours. Jeff was in great spirits and looked good! Mom said that his apartment was very clean and neat. She was very impressed. She said they went to Petsmart, Target and to dinner. And that's about all the time they had!

Mom really seems to be holding her own throughout this whole process. She is so strong. She said she had a great time in colorado, but she forgot her coat. So she wore one of Dad's! Mom is not a light packer so I can assume Dad got some amusement from the fact that she probably packed her whole closet and not a single coat. I wish I could have gone too. I miss my brother so much. But I am so proud of him for going out into the world and making something of himself. He may not think it, but I think he is so brave. I LOVE THEM ALL!!

As for the Lawthers, we are doing good. Kev's football team seems like they have fina

lly found their groove after a pretty rocky start. These Thursday night Varsity games are weird, but it's nice to have time to hang out on a Friday night! I feel like I have seen my husband so much more this season than previous years... hope that continues! My 8th grade volleyball season is almost over. I am having a great time with these girls! But I am excited for basketball (imagine that) as I will be coaching 7th grade and I really enjoy that age.

I went to Ranger's game Saturday night with my Gma! We had a blast. Who cares about a little rain! God was watching out for us like he always does and magically, there were two unoccupied seats up under the awning so when it started pouring, we were high and dry. We stayed for the whole game and even went back down to our seats to brave the weather for the last 3 innings. I am so appreciative Gma wanted me to take her. Here's hoping we make it to the World Series and she'll need my assistance again!

Hope all is well with everyone!

LOVE YOU ALL!!

My Dad Amazes me!!

I just talked to my Mom and got a great update on my Dad. Sorry I haven't been updating. I have been sick all week and haven't been able to go visit my parents.

Dad went home from the hospital last Friday, so he's almost been home a week. He is doing great. He is still recovering and tired but starting to get back to normal every day tasks. Mom said he drove himself, by himself, to the PO Box the other day. He amazes me.

They haven't gotten the pathology report back yet. Apparently, it doesn't happen as fast as it does on Grey's Anatomy. They are soaking it in a solution so they can cut it in half and look at it under the microscope. And they can't do what they need to do it until it is at the right consistency. Maybe that's TMI but that's where we are at.

Dad went back to the hospital today and they put in his prosthesis larynx!! Mom said that they didn't even have to put him under. They also changed out some the equipment and he doesn't have the neck collar he was having to wear anymore. I hope this new set up is more comfortable for him.

He has a voice now!! His first word was Aww. Then they made his say it for longer. Mom said, more like Awwwww... to see how long his breath would hold out. Mom said they were calling him Edward for the whole process. They asked him to say his name and were really confused when he said, "Buzz". :)

He said a few more things, his full name, Mom's name, counted to 10. He loses his breath when speaking more than before but it will come with practice.

They want him to eat solid foods again! He ate a Whataburger Hamburger and fries tonight with a little soreness, but without any problem!!

They want him to try steak this weekend! AWESOME!!


So.. near future treatment plan involves radiation and chemo... unless the pathology report comes back with something totally different then what the doctors are expecting to see. He has an appointment with the radiologist next week. But probably won't actually start radiation for a few weeks. Haven't met with the chemo people yet, but I think the plan is to start chemo and radiation at the same time.

I think that's all for now. Keep the prayers coming! My parents are amazing people!!! But they can't do it alone.
Any of you who were wanting to bring them food, feel free!! DAD CAN EAT!!!!! And maybe you'll even get to get a few words out of him.

LOVE YOU ALL!!!

My Dad is such a fighter. And if you were to ask him about that, he'd tell you it's just another day. Just another day that he has to choose how his attitude will effect his recovery. I wasn't able to go over to the hospital on Monday because I had volleyball practice after school and then had to work the 7th grade game. I didn't get home until after 8pm and I know that's about the time Dad starts to wind down at the hospital.

I did talk to my Mom and she said that he had a rough morning. They changed out his trach. He has a smaller one now and nothing is protruding from his neck. YAY! It looks really good. But it is one more thing that his body has to adapt to and Mom said that he had a really bad coughing fit after they put in the new trach. He also had some problems with his IV and they had to take it all out and re-stick him. No fun. So it was about 3pm before he was finally able to just relax.

Mom said just after 3pm the nurse came in to get him to get up and walk around for a little bit and Mom let her know all that happened that morning and that Dad needed to rest. The nurse asked Dad if he wanted to walk around a bit and he said OK. She asked Dad if Mom was his wife and he said yes. The nurse told Dad that Mom was very protective of him. Yes, she is... as he is of her. :)

So by the evening Dad was relaxing comfortably and I think had a pretty smooth night.

Yesterday, he had another coughing fit and coughed out a tube that was placed in his throat to make way for the prosthesis that he will get in the future. They had to restitch him back up. Other than that he had a pretty smooth day.

Kevin and I got there around 7:30pm as Aunt Vicki and Uncle Jay were loading up all the supplies Dad will need when he goes home. They brought everything yesterday thinking he'd go home today, but right now, that isn't going to happen.

As soon as we got there, Dad and I went for a walk. The hospital is so pretty but he has to stay close to his room and there isn't much to look at in that area. But he is so strong. He walks around like he hasn't been in the hospital for almost 2 weeks!

He is so close to getting to go home but he has to get his coughing under control. The problem is that the mucus is hard and isn't moving which creates more coughing. They said more water and exercise would break up the mucus so he can get it out and then he'll get to go home. So, that's exactly what he's doing.

Today is a big day, I am at work so I'll have to hear about it from Mom, but today is the swallow test day!!! If he is able to swallow and nothing leaks or causes more problems, he will get to start drinking water and even coffee again!! And solid foods are not too far behind.

He does have a feeding tube in his stomach and he has learned how to use it himself. But that is temporary.

He's such a miraculous man!!!

Please keep the prayers coming!

LOVE YOU ALL!!

Dad and me fresh from our walk:

Dad Update 9/11

Not a whole lot to report from today or yesterday. Dad is doing fantastic! When I got to the hospital yesterday after my volleyball tournament, Dad said Hello to me. They brought him the device that he will be able to press to his throat to speak after his throat heals. In the meantime it has a straw on the end of it that vibrates in his mouth for sound. It's a computerized voice and it's loud. Mom, Dad and I giggled as he practiced with it. But he recognizably said my name and Mom's. Of course it's easier to read his lips but they want him to practice with this device. The speech therapist was very impressed (as she should be) with Dad's progress and how quickly he learned to use the device. They also removed all his drains!

He is expecting a visit from a man who has been living with a trach for a while now and he comes to talk to patients so they can ask questions to someone who has lived through it. I wish I could be there and meet him but I think he's coming tomorrow and my day is jammed packed at work.

Kevin went to Mom and Dad's to take care of puppies. He "bonded" with them, to say the least. He even gave them new nicknames. He calls Macy "the sheep dog", because in his opinion she looks like a sheep or a lamb. And Callie, well, he has dubbed her "the smug jerk". :) Callie wouldn't exactly do what he wanted her to do, like go outside and take care of business. So while on the phone with me, he chased her around and finally picked her up and put her down near the fence with plenty of grass. While he was distracted she took off running and he chased after her again. I only wish I could have been there to witness this.

Mom and I ate dinner at the picnic tables outside and I had great time just hanging out with her. After all, if you remember from my previous email, Dad's weekend plans, according to the hospital were to hang out.

The Bryan, Texas Coady clan came into town this weekend, they picked up Granny and spent some time at the hospital to see Dad. He had a rough night with some blockage in his trach but was resting comfortably when I got there later in the day. It was so great to see my family. It's been too long. My cousin Danielle is engaged and I finally got to see her gorgeous ring!! It is beautiful, I probably would have said yes too, just to wear that ring!!! Although mine's pretty spectacular as well. My hubby did good!

David and Melinda Tate from our PK lake family also came to visit while I was there. We were able to spend some time catching up before they had to get back home. Melinda is also a teacher and it seems that she spent the time in car grading papers. That's dedication my friends!!

I didn't stay long after everyone left. Dad was resting and Mom went to lay down on her cot so I came home to continue the laundry and try to get things ready for the week. There were so many cards in Dad's room today. I looked them over before I left and my favorite one is a Dog saying, "Heal!" :)

Thank you so much for your prayers, calls, texts, emails and visits. Dad is recovering and I appreciate you all so much!

Ok, so maybe I had more to say then I thought. :)

Daddy Update!!

I am at the hospital. Just got here after a long day of teaching and coaching. I was so tired. I really wanted to stay home and go to sleep but I wanted even more to see my dad.

I ran into Ember and Aunt Vicki as they were leaving and they told me Dad looked really good. Thank you guys for coming to visit! Aunt Vicki stayed up at the hospital last night so Mom could go to her friend's birthday dinner. Can't thank her enough!!!

As I walk through the door to Dad's room, I have a renewed sense of energy because my dad looks amazing!!! I swear I hope I got these "bounce back" genes because I want to be feeling this good day 2 after a major surgery. I mean, he was in the ICU for less than 24 hours after surgery and they moved him right back into the room he had before. Only difference, no sign about his left arm! But thats a good thing. He got a chuckle outa that story when I told him about it yesterday. :)

I was finally able to tell my kiddos what's been going on without crying. I teared up a little during 1st period but my eyes were dry as I told the stories through out the rest of the day. My kids were so good for the sub! They just make my heart smile!

As for Dad:

They have removed two of his drain tubes early because he's doing so well! The tube that was in his nose is gone and he even had a sponge bath and his hair washed. He looks band new! Well, brand new for a 60 year old.

Projected go home date is set for Wednesday or Thursday of next week!! They had his schedule on the board and for the weekend it said hang out. I told Dad I liked his weekend plans, but I like Wednesday's plans better. He mouthed, "me too."

Thank you all again so much!! Continue to pray for us! We can feel them and I know god is leading us!!

Love you all!!

Sorry for any typos, I used my thumbs on my iPhone!

Dad Update 9/7

Yesterday's theme... Don't touch the left arm.

I went to work yesterday and continued to get things ready so that I could be off of work at the beginning of next week for Dad's surgery. We had a volleyball game last night and I was also trying to get my brain to focus on that too. During 6th period, around 2pm I got a text from my Mom saying that they moved Dad's surgery and he was already in pre-op. I freaked out a little bit inside. Even though Mom's text said this was good news, my Dad was still having surgery, on his neck. Scary! Then I had to process how good this news truly was. No more recovering just to have another "procedure" (down play it all you want Doctor, it's surgery). This was the big surgery and now he could start recovering, period. And I just had to smile.

My kiddos were working in pairs so they just continued while I called the office to get a sub to come to my room so I could leave. Got a hold of the other volleyball coach and she agreed to coach my team for me that night. And then I was out the door. I am so grateful to my school family for taking care of me. I can't imagine working anywhere else.

Once I was in the car, I called Kevin but he was on the practice field. Left him a message. Picked up my Granny and we headed to the hospital. When we got there Dad was already in surgery... well, at least in the operating room, so I couldn't go see him. But that's OK. We aren't sure what time they actually started the surgery but we think around 4pm. Mom and Dad's life long friends Vicki and Lorne Kane were there and I was so grateful Mom wasn't alone. Which isn't a big deal to her, to wait alone, but it made it me feel better and I know she appreciates it. They stayed through the whole surgery and even bought us dinner. They are just the best people and we really appreciate their kindness and friendship. Kev called me as soon as he got off the practice field and was on his way to the hospital. When I told my Mom she said that he didn't need to come... UH, yes he does Mom! :)

Aunt Vicki and Uncle Jay came by after I took Granny home and I am so grateful to have such a loving and wonderful family! Thank you all so much for the text, calls and visits. You really know how to make a girl feel loved!!!

Around 7pm we got a phone call in the waiting room from the surgeon. The surgery was SUCCESSFUL! They got all the cancer out!!! They didn't have to do as much reconstruction as they had planned for so his recovery will be even swifter. They removed his Larynx and his thyroid and I think 2 lymph nodes. They also began the process for him to have a prosthesis Larynx which is the best option for speech after the surgery of all the options! GOD IS SOOO GOOD! My Daddy is CANCER FREE!! He has to go back in 2 weeks to have his thyroid levels checked to make sure the medication that he will be taking is working. And I am pretty sure he'll still have chemo. I mean, they went through all the trouble of putting the port in and all, but we didn't really ask about that last night.

Last night was all about Thanking God for this wonderful news. After his surgery last week, they put him in the ICU with signs on the walls that basically said, "don't touch the left arm". Just a piece of paper that was printed from a computer. The doctor was planning to take the skin from his arm and put it on his neck so the Dr. didn't want any IV's or blood taken from the left arm . When dad got out of the ICU and we were packing up his stuff he made sure I grabbed the sign so we could take it to his new room.

While he was in surgery, Lorne and I went back to his room to pack up his stuff. He's going to be in the ICU for a few days now and it's unlikely he will be moved back into the room he had before. So as we were packing up the stuff I made sure to grab that sign. Who knew if he'd need it, but it was important before so I didn't want to leave it.

Well, the surgery went so well, that they didn't have to take the skin from his arm. They didn't have to replace the skin on his neck. And I can't wait for him to be alert enough for me to tell him all the good news. I can't wait to tell him, "They didn't touch your left arm."

Long road ahead, but right now, we are basking in the great news.

Keep the prayers coming!

LOVE YOU ALL!!!

Don

Yesterday's theme... Don't touch the left arm.

I went to work yesterday and continued to get things ready so that I could be off of work at the beginning of next week for Dad's surgery. We had a volleyball game last night and I was also trying to get my brain to focus on that too. During 6th period, around 2pm I got a text from my Mom saying that they moved Dad's surgery and he was already in pre-op. I freaked out a little bit inside. Even though Mom's text said this was good news, my Dad was still having surgery, on his neck. Scary! Then I had to process how good this news truly was. No more recovering just to have another "procedure" (down play it all you want Doctor, it's surgery). This was the big surgery and now he could start recovering, period. And I just had to smile.

My kiddos were working in pairs so they just continued while I called the office to get a sub to come to my room so I could leave. Got a hold of the other volleyball coach and she agreed to coach my team for me that night. And then I was out the door. I am so grateful to my school family for taking care of me. I can't imagine working anywhere else.

Once I was in the car, I called Kevin but he was on the practice field. Left him a message. Picked up my Granny and we headed to the hospital. When we got there Dad was already in surgery... well, at least in the operating room, so I couldn't go see him. But that's OK. We aren't sure what time they actually started the surgery but we think around 4pm. Mom and Dad's life long friends Vicki and Lorne Kane were there and I was so grateful Mom wasn't alone. Which isn't a big deal to her, to wait alone, but it made it me feel better and I know she appreciates it. They stayed through the whole surgery and even bought us dinner. They are just the best people and we really appreciate their kindness and friendship. Kev called me as soon as he got off the practice field and was on his way to the hospital. When I told my Mom she said that he didn't need to come... UH, yes he does Mom! :)

Aunt Vicki and Uncle Jay came by after I took Granny home and I am so grateful to have such a loving and wonderful family! Thank you all so much for the text, calls and visits. You really know how to make a girl feel loved!!!

Around 7pm we got a phone call in the waiting room from the surgeon. The surgery was SUCCESSFUL! They got all the cancer out!!! They didn't have to do as much reconstruction as they had planned for so his recovery will be even swifter. They removed his Larynx and his thyroid and I think 2 lymph nodes. They also began the process for him to have a prosthesis Larynx which is the best option for speech after the surgery of all the options! GOD IS SOOO GOOD! My Daddy is CANCER FREE!! He has to go back in 2 weeks to have his thyroid levels checked to make sure the medication that he will be taking is working. And I am pretty sure he'll still have chemo. I mean, they went through all the trouble of putting the port in and all, but we didn't really ask about that last night.

Last night was all about Thanking God for this wonderful news. After his surgery last week, they put him in the ICU with signs on the walls that basically said, "don't touch the left arm". Just a piece of paper that was printed from a computer. The doctor was planning to take the skin from his arm and put it on his neck so the Dr. didn't want any IV's or blood taken from the left arm . When dad got out of the ICU and we were packing up his stuff he made sure I grabbed the sign so we could take it to his new room.

While he was in surgery, Lorne and I went back to his room to pack up his stuff. He's going to be in the ICU for a few days now and it's unlikely he will be moved back into the room he had before. So as we were packing up the stuff I made sure to grab that sign. Who knew if he'd need it, but it was important before so I didn't want to leave it.

Well, the surgery went so well, that they didn't have to take the skin from his arm. They didn't have to replace the skin on his neck. And I can't wait for him to be alert enough for me to tell him all the good news. I can't wait to tell him, "They didn't touch your left arm."

Long road ahead, but right now, we are basking in the great news.

Keep the prayers coming!

LOVE YOU ALL!!!

Dad Update 9/6

Not a lot to update that I know of for today. I went to work so I wasn't camped out at the hospital so I may have missed something. But his procedure went great. His feeding tube is in and the port for chemo as well. He's tired and sore... but looking forward to his meal tomorrow. He's out of recovery and back in his room. I just had a quick visit today. He looked good. Thank you to Ember for coming with me. I enjoyed hanging out with my cousin, as always!!! Ember commented on how normal he looks. It's the truth. And when you see him, you know that everything is going to be OK. I know it's a long road ahead, but I just have a feeling about this....

Keep the prayers coming. Faith has been my rock. Well, faith and my parents. But these things have always been my rock.

God is taking care of us! LOVE TO YOU ALL! And thanks for caring and praying about my Daddy!

Side note: My students were giving presentations today on who they admire. They had to come up with at least 3 different people and then choose one to write about. Their role models ranged from Sponge bob to their parents. From Superman to Dirk... and after all presentations were done in 1st period... on student raised her hand and asked me, "Who do you admire, Coach Lawther?" I had to look at the ground to keep the tears at bay... but I said, "I can't really get into that right now." And then looked up and we continued on. Hopefully tomorrow I can tell her without crying... and if not tomorrow, the next day... but I want to tell her. I want her to know about all the people that inspire me to be the way I am. Including the two most important ones, my parents.

So for those of you out there who are worried about me... don't be. Pray for me. I promise that is all I need. To quote my cousin Erin, I am "taking it like a Coady." Just look at my Granny! And the Demarest side of my family aren't exactly weaklings... Have you met my Gma?? So I guess it's just in my blood.

Dad update 9/5

Wrote this yesterday:

And information continues to trickle in.... I think today's theme is... we'll know more tomorrow. :)

So today was a harder day for Dad...lots of mucus.. lots of coughing.. not a lot of fun. But the oncologist did come by today so we got more information about the aftermath... the weeks to come... and whats actually going on right now.

According to the scans, not the biopsies, still don't know about the biopsies... but according to scans he has 1 enlarged lymph node. Only 1... which is good news all things considered. This 1 lymph node is the reason they are pretty sure it's cancer. Non cancerous tumors don't spread to other organs... BUT Would you like some great news? Like awesome.. jump up and down great news? He is perfectly healthy other than this stupid cancerous tumor. :) According to all their tests, lungs, heart, stomach, kidneys, liver... all look great. So that means that this is localized. Wonderful news!!!

So.. here's the plan of attack:

Surgery tomorrow to have a feeding tube put in... he hasn't eaten since Thursday night so this is such a relief! And they will also put in a port for chemo. He MAY get to go home Wednesday... it's possible.

Then his big surgery is scheduled for a week from today. They will also be removing his thyroid as well as his larynx. But he'll just have to take thyroid medication from here on out. Which he seems fine with. After the 12th he will have about a month to recover, may be at home, may be in rehab, before they start chemo and radiation. The oncologist said that with as healthy as he is "let's hit it full force and get rid of it all."

As for prayers, Keep them coming!! God is listening!

So... that's where we are. We should, that's right, you guessed it... know more tomorrow. :)

Dad update

So a lot of speculation and information overload is how I would describe yesterday. Yesterday was the hardest day so far for me. But dad is taking it all in stride.

The speech therapist came by yesterday and explained all that's going on with the trachea. What it looks like in his throat why he feels like he's constantly choking and so on. She also laid out the options for speech after his surgery on the 12th. This was the hardest for me to digest which seems so silly because so what if he can't talk normally. There are so many different ways to communicate and it's amazing what technology can do. :) but I am better today. Dad did what he does, here's a problem... These are solution options.. Ok, thanks for the info we'll cross that bridge when we come to it. :) love him!

The options are an electronic remote that he presses to his throat that causes vibration. Option 2 is something called burp speech that is very difficult to master but it uses the air in your stomach. It's not actually burping.. But that's the best description. Option 3 is a prosthesis. That gives the best option as far as normal speaking voice. This option is chosen only if the surgeon recommends it.

The other two dad can choose which he likes better.

There is also an option that they will probably do right after the surgery because of the swelling in his throat after surgery, and that's the breathing stick. It's basically as chewing stick that vibrates sound.

So... That's that. Right now. He still has the ballon blocking his airway. He still feels like he's choking and he's still coughing a lot. This is a vicious cycle that will only stop when his body adapts.

Right now he is getting his nutrition through the iv but on Tuesday they will put a feeding tube in. They also said they may put the port in for chemo on tuesday as well but we still don't know if he will have to have chemo but we will find out before Tuesday.

I think that's all from yesterday.

Today has been a good day. The nurses are bragging on his coughing ability. :) also he is going to be moved out of the ICU and into a room on the 3rd floor. He will not go home before his surgery on Tuesday. But they think he will be able to go home before the 12th. Just need to make sure he has the support he needs to live at home for awhile.

After the surgery on the 12th he will be feeling much better. The tumor won't be pressing on anything and he'll have a smaller trachea.
Please feel free to ask me any questions as I feel like there is more info to tell but I can't remember.

At the beginning of the week, before we even had a clue this was going on. keV and I were looking at getting a different vehicle for me. The dealership has been wonderful and even let me "test drive" the new car for the weekend. I am grateful for the distraction and so is dad. He's been analyzing the deals and helping us make a decision. Last night he brought it up and spent 20 minutes running numbers and explaining things with his pad and paper. I am so grateful for him.

Continue the prayers!!! God is big enough!

Being transported on his chariot:

When they first got him in it i jokingly asked him if he wanted a picture. He said yes! But to wait a minute while they were getting him loaded in because he wanted to smile in it. Didn't get to take that picture as I stayed outa the way... So the above will have to do. :)

Bottom line. Dad's doing good. He's in good spirits. He's adjusting. And he's being moved out of the ICU!

My Dad

My Dad went in yesterday to a hospital in fort worth for a tracheotomy. They kept him over night for observation. Hopefully he will get to go home sunday. As it stands right now, his surgery is scheduled for the 12th so he's going to have to live with the trachea until then. But my understanding now is he will now have a trachea for the rest of his life. He has a tumor on his voice box. It is making it hard to breathe and swallow. They will be removing his voicebox on the 12th. My mom told me the doctors think it is cancerous. They took biopsies yesterday to learn more about it and we don't know the results yet. They are going to start radiation a few weeks after the surgery.

They said he should be able to regain speech but we don't know how or what all that entails. A nurse yesterday said it could involve breathing on sticks that vibrate to make sounds. Thats all I know as of right now.

I am not sure if he's out of the ICU yet. He was miserable when we left last night. That said, he is doing good. No fever. The medicine is giving him dry mouth and he can't swallow yet so he can't drink water. He's not in pain... Or enough that he wants meds.

He is coherent. Looked at me last night and i could tell he recognized me and Nodded when I told him I loved him and that I was taking care of mom as best I could. He was doing really well all things considered.

As for me, I have cried a little. The finality of all this is setting in. What I thought would be a temporary battle for him is looking like a lifetime one and I don't want my Dad to suffer. He is such a good and kind man. Always putting others before himself. He is a man of few words so of all things that can go wrong... It could be worse. That said I don't have to learn to breathe through a tube in my throat so what do I know! :) I understand God has a plan. My dad is very spiritual and has a deep understanding of god's love and he has always trusted in that and I am trying to do the same. I know that some of dad's actions in the past probably led to this... But I don't blame him. In my eyes, he can do no wrong.

He will be able to talk with the the trachea until his surgery on the 12th. Which i am so thankful for as the last words he spoke to me were "i love you too sweetheart." while those are the best words I could ever hear, i am not ready for "last words". Please pray that somehow they can preserve some of his vocal cords. Just the smallest amount would make a huge difference. And to quote my mom, "anything's possible.. Maybe not probable.. But definitely possible."

Say a prayer for him and his doctors. Thank you so much!

Sorry for any typos, I used my thumbs on my iPhone!

Hoping to Leave a Legacy of Joy

Ok, so I have PLENTY of blogging material from our trips to Hawaii and Florida. And I will blog about them for sure! Some photos are already on facebook but I have something else on my mind I really want to share!!

I am so excited about this business opportunity that recently fell into my lap! I have signed up to be a Halle Joy Ambassador!

I have always liked going to my friend’s home shows for different various companies and participating in the fun. Looking at all the products and chatting with friends, but I have never liked the pressure that some companies put on those parties. I would hate to go to one and feel like you HAD to buy something. If you know me well, you know I don’t like being told I HAVE to do something.

You need me to do something? I’ll help you until my arms give out, but I HAVE to??? I’ll rebel against it.

So, I always promised myself that if I ever did a home business, it would be one that I could do on my terms. That there wasn’t pressure from the higher ups to recruit members or have a certain amount of shows a month making X amount of dollars. That just wasn’t for me.

Then, my Mom and my Aunt signed up to sell Halle Joy back in December. From the beginning I have loved this company! Not only have they provided a website that I can use to sell products during the school year when I barely have time to breathe, let alone get together with my friends… but they are a faith based company committed to changing the world!

A percentage of every purchase goes to the cause of your choice. They call them points of joy and they are, water, food, orphans, medicine and disaster relief.

So, if you are wanting to purchase jewelry or a new bag either for you or a friend, why not buy one that helps the world?

I am determined to make any home show I get to put on a laid back experience. I want people to buy the product, but not at the expense of pressuring my friends or customers!!! That just sounds horrible to me.

Maybe more of a get together where items are there for everyone to look at. Feel free to buy something if you are looking for a new purse or just love what’s there... but don’t feel like you have to! Right? And it would be a great experience for me to get to share this company.

I haven’t booked any home shows or anything yet. I just started this Saturday.  BUT… Cool thing about being a hostess, not only do you get free stuff, but you get to decide which “points of joy” your sh0w is supporting!!! I’d like to do one before school starts back. I know I will only get to do internet orders during the school year.

But that’s the coolest thing about this!! During the school year, people can just go to my website:

www.hallejoy.com/alyssalawther

and purchase whatever they want!!! I want to do home shows because it gives me an excuse to get together with my friends, but I am excited to have a way to share this company when life gets so busy for me.

They also offer their products as fundraisers for churches or schools… If you know anyone that would be helpful to, let me know!!

Bottom line: I’m excited!! And ready to help with their mission: “By creating beautiful products and working together to make the world a better place, we can leave a legacy of joy.”

How cool is that?????

Hawaii day 1... So far

We made it to Oahu! Happy 4th of July! :) We are in the lounge at Honolulu's International Airport awaiting the last leg of our journey to Maui.

What a relaxing flight. We had enough miles to upgrade so we spoiled ourselves and flew first class. If you ever have the opportunity, take it! It was amazing! The seats fold out into a bed with the push of a button. Lunch was great and I dozed on and off for a good part of the 8 hour flight.

Our menu:

Oahu!!!:

More pictures to come from what I know will be a very relaxing vacation.

From the road...

So, Kev and I are headed to Florida! If you follow my sporadic blogging you know we make this trip every summer and it's one of our favorite places to go. Florida itself is wonderful, but it's people we visit that make the trip worth it.

Jordan, Brad and Jack make my heart smile! We always have the best time and I can't wait to snuggle with shark bait! Kev and Brad became fast friends on our first visit to see them before Jack was born. Jordan and I have been best friends since high school but you'd think the boys met first by the way they act. They bonded over beer and BBQ and then Brad introduced my husband to salt water fishing and life as he knew it was forever changed. :)

This photo is from Jack's first birthday:

Get ready Boykins! Were headed your way!!

Also, this past week we had a date night with some of Kevin's fellow coaches and their wives. We had a blast! As the years roll by, my allegiance to our Alma mater grows smaller as being a Colt keeps getting better and better. Coach Peach has put together an amazing program with a family atmosphere. It's just nice to know that my husband works for a man who not only cares about football, but his family and Colt family by extension! And One of the reasons Kev was hired was because he played for Peach at Martin and Coach Peach knew his character and integrity. So in my mind we are supporting Martin and AHS at the same time! :) Now, I don't know if there will ever come a day when I can hold the horseshoe sign up high and not make the warrior sign with my other hand down by my thigh. But, I definitely understand how sweet it is in Colt Country!!

And finally, I'll leave you with some photos of our drive. 4:30am came very early and I slept until 8am or so in the car!! :) love road trips!

Mississippi River:

Jenn's married and Katie's pregnant!

I am so very excited for two of my very close friends!! Jenn married her match made in heaven yesterday and I couldn't be happier for them!! She was honored to be in her Houseparty! It was such a fun wedding with plenty of pictures to come.

The soon to be Mr. and Mrs.

One of my VERY best friend's, for the past almost 20 years now, is pregnant!!! Katie is due in December. She told me back in April right after she found out but has asked that we keep it mum until now!! She is a beautiful person inside and out and I know she is going to make a great mother! I can't wait to hold my little nephew!! She is 14 weeks along but did a super cool state of the art sonogram and the doctor is 95% sure she's having a BOY!!!! Love you SAM!!

Some pictures from the gorgeous wedding:

rehearsing:

The bride, flower girl and the FG's newest best bud:

The Mama-to-be and me at Jenn's Rehearsal Dinner at Texas de Brazil:

Eric and Lucy:

Jenn gave us all bracelets with a charm symbolizing something that is important to us. She gave me a Flamingo to symbolize Florida and my loves that live there! I think this is the sweetest gift and I will treasure it always!!!

Wedding day! Checking out the reception hall before heading to the church:

The Ceremony was beautiful, but I didn't take any pictures!!

Throwing her bouquet:

The gorgeous couple:

Making a run for it:

I had the best time! Thank you for including me Teeny!!!

Hawaii 2010 Day 7

Our last day in Hawaii was a very relaxing day. We had to get the rental car back by 3pm but our flight wasn’t until 7pm so we had some time to kill at the air port. But before that:

We slept in and checked out of the hotel at 11am. We drove back to Honolulu, slowly. :) We stopped at a few places along the way so that I could take pictures.

I took a few more pictures of the property before we left:

   

We stopped at Sunset Beach:

Shark’s Cove:

Waimea Beach:

Pretty sure this is Pipeline, the waves were bigger than other beaches, but not as big as I know them to be. But pipeline’s biggest waves are during the winter months:

LOVE THIS TOWN:

Back in the city:

After we dropped the car off, we headed to the airport. It was a really cool airport. Reminded me of Termial D with all the shops and restaurants. But since we had hours to kill, we set up shop in the Admiral’s Club:

 

Before we knew it we were on the plane to go home:

It was an amazing trip! I am so excited to go back. We made some wonderful memories and really just enjoyed one another’s company. I had a ring made with the pearl that we purchased at the PCC. It is so beautiful.

I am so grateful for my hubby!! I LOVE YOU!