Tuesday, April 13, 2010

God, are you out there? It's me, Joanne

Let's just get to it:  My husband has liver cancer. 
So, if you're keeping count (and I am), since September, Steve's brain tumor has come back twice, he's had surgery, a small stroke, rehab and this last time he had stereotactic radiosurgery, which means they bombarded the tumor from every angle possible with radiation; Kevin was diagnosed and had surgery for an aggressive form of prostate cancer, and now Bill has liver cancer.  We are in the process of getting all our ducks in a row:  we met a great surgeon in Madison at UW Clinic today and will be having more tests done and will have to make some serious decisions over the next few weeks.  She can take 1/2 his liver, if the mass and other spots are contained in the half; and if he can tolerate the surgery -- he'll be 84 in May and we have to meet with his cardiologist sometime soon and he'll probably have to have another echocardiogram.  They are also scheduling tests in Madison, so we'll be driving back and forth, or spending time up there in a hotel, as needed.
I'm going to be spending less time on the computer, obviously, so am taking a break from blogging (you wouldn't notice because I haven't blogged in a month anyway! vbg).

19 comments :

Donna said...

Your family will be in my prayers. I don't know of words that can make this better, but I do know a God who hears us when we pray.

Melanie said...

May I have your snail mail address? Gosh, I'm a lousy friend. Figured you were just living life to the fullest --- didn't want to pressure you with blogging. You'll never leave my prayers. Let me know if I can help...Godspeed...

Melody said...

Good golly Joann I'll bet you'd love to kick cancer's butt right about now, wouldn't you?! I'm so sorry. I'll keep you all in my prayers.

StitchinByTheLake said...

I'm so sorry. Your cup runneth over - and not in a good way. I'll be praying for God's healing and strength and grace. blessings, marlene

Anonymous said...

I'm just someone who "lurks" and enjoys your blog. I also live in northern Illinois. So I have often enjoyed when you mention places I have been to for quilt things. You and your family are in my prayers.
Andrea

Laurie said...

I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.

Carol said...

Oh Joanne...No words can possibly express my thoughts. Please know that my thoughts and prayers will be with you all. Sending you tons and tons of good thoughts.

tami said...

I am so sorry. Sometimes it just seems like you can't catch a break. I know God doesn't give us more than we can handle, but sometimes it sure feels like it doesn't it? I'm sending tons of positive thoughts and prayers to you all. Be strong.

Robin C said...

Joanne,

I'm so sorry. I read your blog and have been following your family's health woes. Just know that people care and we will be praying for you.

Robin in VA

Sew Create It - Jane said...

I'll be thinking about you and your family at this difficult time. I hope the various treatments work. ((hugs))

Quilting Kim said...

You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. I know all too well what you are going through and it doesn't seem fair that some have such a full plate. Try to stay strong and ask for help when you need it.

McIrish Annie said...

Joanne, I don't know what to say other than you and your family are in my prayers. A big (HUG) to you. Know that all of us are out here thinking of you~

Shelina (formerly known as Shasta) said...

Wow! I'm so sorry. You and your family are definitely in my thoughts and prayers. {{{Hugs}}}

Anonymous said...

"Farther along we'll know all about it, farther along we'll understand why." Sandy Gail (Sandra Neel Hutchins.)

Brigitte said...

dear Joanne, I follow your blog for some time now and felt sorry about the different health issues - and now this bad news. Seems thats more than one woman can handle. That's why we are here - for you - please feel free to tell us your worries (Excuse my poor English, I'm German) - sending a friendship hug and positive thoughts - Brigitte

Anonymous said...

Hi Joanne,

I talked to Steve a couple weeks ago and am praying for your husband and entire family. Stay strong and keep believing!

Marky P

Anonymous said...

Joanne- I am here and listening.

I haven't given up. Make sure you don't either.

- God.

Vivian said...

You are in my prayers. God Bless!

Jeanne said...

Joanne, I'm so sorry to hear this. I will keep you all in my prayers.