Tuesday, March 11, 2008

Paul Walker HARVEST


Paul had a morning full of tests and then another appointment with the tranplant doctor. He signed consent for the additional drug to mobilize his stem cells. They will be harvesting his stem cells with the help of this new drug starting Monday, March 24. They generally harvest enough for two stem cell transplants in case another is needed; however, there is a possibility with his past trouble that they may only be able to harvest enough for one tranplant.

A rather major change is that KU is going back to inpatient transplants for awhile. Assuming the harvest is successful, Paul will be admitted to the tranplant unit on March 31, the first day of his chemo; and will be there for approximately three weeks or until his counts go back up. Last Friday, we talked to another myeloma patient that we had met at the support group. He was to be three weeks behind Paul on the tranplant schedule; but due to Paul's delay, he is now two weeks ahead. Anyway, he was told last Friday, that he would be inpatient. That gave us time to kind of get our heads around this before meeting with the doctor today; at least it wasn't a total surprise. We both feel comfortable with this change and feel that this is another way that God is taking care of us.

Again, thank you for all of your support and prayers. We know they are helping.- Linda(Calvin's grandmother!)

Friday, February 22, 2008

The Cabbie and the Preacher

A cab driver reaches the Pearly Gates and announces his presence to St. Peter, who looks him up in his Big Book. Upon reading the entry for the cabbie, St. Peter invites him to pick up a silk robe and a golden staff and to proceed into Heaven.

A preacher is next in line behind the cabby and has been watching these proceedings with interest. He announces himself to St. Peter. Upon scanning the preacher's entry in the Big Book, St. Peter furrows his brow and says, "Okay, we'll let you in, but take that cloth robe and wooden staff."

The preacher is astonished and replies, "But I am a man of the cloth. You gave that cab driver a gold staff and a silk robe. Surely *I* rate higher than a cabbie."

St. Peter responded matter-of-factly: "This is heaven and up here, we are interested in results. When you preached, people slept. When the cabbie drove his taxi, people prayed."

Thursday, February 21, 2008

The Taylor Rozier Cancer Story

Rick,

I am certain someone in your Prayer group is praying for someone with cancer. They might find this story from Incarnate Word Academy in St.L. one of joy. (Good to have some Kleenex handy though for some tears of joy).

Uncle George

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OfrDljSmaEo

Wednesday, February 20, 2008

Paul Walker Cancer Treatment Update


Paul had labs today and his platelets are starting to go up, so the plan is to start the harvest or collection of his stem cells on Monday, 2/25. The chemo and infusion of his stem cells will be the following week.

We are anxious to get started; but, obviously, somewhat apprehensive.

The central line that he had put in on Friday was a bigger deal than we realized; and the care of it is somewhat involved. Once we start going to the cancer center daily, they will take over its care.

Thanks for your support.-- Linda(Calvin's grandmother!)

Tuesday, February 12, 2008

Paul Walker UPDATE...UPBEAT~!



In a message dated 2/12/2008 6:15:05 P.M. Central Standard Time, grandmalindawalker@gmail.com writes:


As of last week, the plan was to start harvesting Paul's stem cells the week of 2/18, and then the chemo and transplant the week of 2/25. He had a couple of full days of tests and consultations last Thursday and Friday. Most everything looked good, except his platelet count was low. This could be due to some medications which he is now going to hold or due to an infection. A low platelet count could make the harvest more difficult. At any rate, everything has been bumped back a week in hopes that the platelet count will go up. The really good news is that the results of his bone marrow biopsy show that his plasma cells are now only 2%. In June when he was diagnosed, they were at 10%. In October, when all of the pain started, he was at 70% in some places. At the beginning of January at Mayo, he was down to 5% after a little more than two cycles of the induction drugs....and now 2%. Actually 3% is normal; I always knew that there was nothing normal about him! The most recent skeletal x-rays show that he has compression fractures in his vertebrae that were not present in his 11/20/07 x-rays. This would explain the terrible pain he had in late November and December. The oxycontin is what is now controlling the pain. In the future he may consider having cement injected in the vertebrae. This would possibly help him get off of the pain meds. But first things, first....and that is the transplant.

Anyway, thank you for all of your prayers. They are really working. We will continue to need them in the coming weeks and months.-- Linda(Calvin's grandmother!)

Saturday, January 19, 2008

Abbey, died last month


Our 14 year old dog, Abbey, died last month. The day after she died, my 4 year old daughter Meredith was crying and talking about how much she missed Abbey.

She asked if we could write a letter to God so that when Abbey got to heaven, God would recognize her. I told her that I thought we could so she dictated these words:

Dear God,

Will you please take care of my dog? She died yesterday and is with you in heaven.
I miss her very much. I am happy that you let me have her as my dog even though she got sick.

I hope you will play with her. She likes to play with balls and to swim. I am sending a picture of her so when you see her, you will know that she is my dog.
I really miss her.

Love, Meredith.


We put the letter in an envelope with a picture of Abbey and Meredith and addressed it to God/Heaven. We put our return address on it. Then Meredith pasted several stamps on the front of the envelope because she said it would take lots of stamps to get the letter all the way to heaven.


That afternoon she dropped it into the letter box at the post office. A few days later, she asked if God had gotten the letter yet. I told her that I thought He had.

Yesterday, there was a package wrapped in gold paper on our front porch addressed, "To Meredith", in an unfamiliar hand. Meredith opened it. Inside was a book by Mr. Rogers called, "When a Pet Dies."


Taped to the inside front cover was the letter we had written to God in its opened envelope.
On the opposite page was the picture of Abbey & Meredith and this note:


Dear Meredith,

Abbey arrived safely in heaven. Having the picture was a big help. I recognized Abbey right away.


Abbey isn't sick anymore. Her spirit is here with me just like it stays in your heart. Abbey loved being your dog. Since we don't need our bodies in heaven, I don't have any pockets to keep your picture in, so I am sending it back to you in this little book for you to keep and have something to remember Abbey by.


Thank you for the beautiful letter and thank your mother for helping you write it and sending it to me.


What a wonderful mother you have. I picked her especially for you. I send my blessings every day and remember that I love you very much.


By the way, I'm easy to find, I am wherever there is love.
Love,

God

Friday, January 18, 2008

I believe


A birth certificate shows that we were born; a death certificate shows that we died; pictures show that we lived! Relax. And read this slowly.

I believe - That just because two people argue, it doesn't mean they don't love each other. And just because they don't argue, it doesn't mean they do.

I believe - That we don't have to change friends if we understand that friends change.

I believe - That no matter how good a friend is, they're going to hurt you every once in a while and you must forgive them for that.

I believe - That true friendship continues to grow, even over the longest distance. Same goes for true love.

I believe - That you can do something in an instant that will give you heartache for life.

I believe - That it's taking me a long time to become the person I want to be.

I believe - That you should always leave loved ones with loving words. It may be the last time you see them.

I believe - That you can keep going long after you think you can't.

I believe - That we are responsible for what we do, no matter how we feel.

I believe - That either you control your attitude or it controls you.

I believe - That heroes are the people who do what has to be done when it needs to be done, regardless of the consequences.

I believe - That money is a lousy way of keeping score.

I believe - That sometimes the people you expect to kick you when you're down will be the ones to help you get back up.

I believe - That sometimes when I'm angry I have the right to be angry, but that doesn't give me the right to be cruel.

I believe - That maturity has more to do with what types of experiences you've had and what you've learned from them and less to do with how many birthdays you've celebrated.

I believe - That it isn't always enough to be forgiven by others. Sometimes you have to learn to forgive yourself.

I believe - That no matter how bad your heart is broken, the world doesn't stop for your grief.

I believe - That our background and circumstances may have influenced who we are, but we are responsible for who we become.

I believe - Two people can look at the exact same thing and see something totally different.

I believe - That your life can be changed in a matter of hours by people who don't even know you.

I believe - That even when you think you have no more to give, when a friend cries out to you - you will find the strength to help.

I believe - That credentials on the wall do not make you a decent human being.

I believe - That the people you care about most in life are taken from you too soon.

"The will of God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you."






--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Start the year off right. Easy ways to stay in shape in the new year.

God's Problem Now


God's Problem Now ...

When the graveside service had no more than terminated,
there was a tremendous burst of thunder accompanied by
a distant lightning bolt and more rumbling thunder.

The little old man looked at the pastor and calmly said,

"Well, she's there."

Sunday, January 13, 2008

A minister passing through his church


A minister passing through his church
in the middle of the day,
Decided to pause by the altar
and see who had come to pray.

Just then the back door opened,
a man came down the aisle,
The minister frowned as he saw
the man hadn't shaved in a while.
His shirt was kind a shabby
and his coat was worn and frayed,
the man knelt, he bowed his head,
Then rose and walked away.

In the days that followed,
each noon time came this chap,
each time he knelt just for a moment,
A lunch pail in his lap.

Well, the minister's suspicions grew,
with robbery a main fear,
He decided to stop the man and ask him,
'What are you doing here?'

The old man said, he worked down the road.
Lunch was half an hour.
Lunchtime was his prayer time,
For finding strength and power.

'I stay only moments, see,
because the factory is so far away;
as I kneel here talking to the Lord,
This is kind a what I say:

'I JUST CAME AGAIN TO TELL YOU, LORD, HOW HAPPY I'VE BEEN,
SINCE WE FOUND EACH OTHERS FRIENDSHIP AND YOU TOOK AWAY MY SIN.
DON'T KNOW MUCH OF HOW TO PRAY,
BUT I THINK ABOUT YOU EVERYDAY.
SO, JESUS, THIS IS JIM CHECKING IN TODAY.'

The minister feeling foolish,
told Jim, that was fine.
He told the man he was welcome
To come and pray just anytime

Time to go, Jim smiled, said 'Thanks.' He hurried to the door.
The minister knelt at the altar, he'd never done it before.

His cold heart melted, warmed with love,
and met with Jesus there.
As the tears flowed, in his heart,
he repeated old Jim's prayer:

'I JUST CAME AGAIN TO TELL YOU, LORD, HOW HAPPY I'VE BEEN,
SINCE WE FOUND EACH OTHERS FRIENDSHIP AND YOU TOOK AWAY MY SIN.
I DON'T KNOW MUCH OF HOW TO PRAY, BUT I THINK ABOUT YOU EVERYDAY.
SO, JESUS, THIS IS ME CHECKING IN TO DAY.'

Past noon one day, the minister noticed
that old Jim hadn't come.
As more days passed without Jim,
he began to worry some.

At the factory, he asked about him,
learning he was ill.
The hospital staff was worried,
But he'd given them a thrill.

The week that Jim was with them,
Brought changes in the ward.
His smiles, a joy contagious.
Changed people, were his reward.

The head nurse couldn't understand
why Jim was so glad,
when no flowers, calls or cards came,
Not a visitor he had.

The minister stayed by his bed,
He voiced the nurse's concern:
No friends came to show they cared.
He had nowhere to turn.

Looking surprised, old Jim spoke
up and with a winsome smile;
'the nurse is wrong, she couldn't know,
that he's in here all the while

everyday at noon He's here,
a dear friend of mine, you see,
He sits right down, takes my hand,
Leans over and says to me:


'I JUST CAME AGAIN TO TELL YOU, JIM, HOW HAPPY I HAVE BEEN,
SINCE WE FOUND THIS FRIENDSHIP, AND I TOOK AWAY YOUR SIN.

ALWAYS LOVE TO HEAR YOU PRAY,
I THINK ABOUT YOU EACH DAY,
AND SO JIM, THIS IS JESUS CHECKING IN TODAY.'

Sylvia's Requests


We have been praying for Cathy Kinsella's dad for some time...........things are not going well and we really need to not only lift up Bill and Barbara, but also Cathy and her sister.........thanks.
We got back from Pittsburgh last night. I'm going to head back over there on Thursday. Dad is declining pretty quickly, I think it's time to put him actively back on the Prayer Warrior's list... It has been almost two years since he was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma. At this point he has about 95% bone involvement, meaning just about every bone in his body is cracked, broken or compressed. He is in incredible pain which can be (and has been) controlled with meds but my mom is having a really hard time making decisions: she can't bear for him to be in pain so they increase the meds and he sleeps around the clock (basically in a fetal position) and she can't bear to see that so they lower the meds and he is awake but in terrible pain and she can't bear to see that so they increase the meds... He is in a skilled nursing unit but doesn't qualify for hospice yet because his blood levels, according to the oncologist, are "great." Thankfully there is a terrific social worker and PA always available to mom and dad - I'm just having a hard time being 5 hours away. Anyway, please pray for peace and comfort for my dad (Bill Perfater) and maybe add to that acceptance for my mom (Barbara Perfater.) If anyone would have time to send him (them) a note as a "friend of Sylvia", the address is:

Mr. & Mrs. John W. Perfater (Bill and Barbara)
231 Norman Drive
Cranberry Township, PA 16606

I know most of all, they'd appreciate your prayers! Thanks so much, wishing you a Happy, Healthy 2008!

Love,
Cathy

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The days have been long since aunt Marie's transfer to the skilled/rehab nursing unit at Country Meadows. I ask you to please pray for a compassionate, attentive nurse to be assigned to her care. In accordance with aunt Marie's wishes, rehab will be discontinued after tomorrow and hospice care will be started on Thursday. I was with aunt Marie for a couple hours tonight, making sure she was tucked in and comfortable for the night. Before I left she said, "Sylvia, can't the good Lord just spare just a little bitty space for me in heaven? I really won't take up that much room? Please tell everyone to pray tonight and ask Him to please make just a little space for me". So, I ask you this night to pray with - if it's the Lord's will, to open a little space for her, and for uncle Herman's acceptance..........uncle Herman rarely leaves her side. I told aunt Marie that I thought perhaps uncle Herman was understandably having a tough time letting go.......after 76 yrs, that's not too easy.......uncle Herman was sitting there shaking his head with tears dripping down his cheeks............she said "he doesn't need me anymore".....and he said "I think I would have to disagree with that"...........she just shook her head and said it's time for her to go. It was very hard for me to leave them tonight. Cousin Tara is flying in from NC on Friday - pray for her safe travel. Thanks so much. <3 span="">




Karen Rumore <krumore@yahoo.com>

I have a girl, Jenna, I'd like to add to the list to. She is both a new Mom and a young teenager struggling with the decision of adoption or keeping the baby. Because of the situation, her family has abandoned her, which compounds the difficulty of her decision. It looks as though she wants to keep it, but the logistics seem insurmountable (except for the Lord, that is!)

Because of confidentiality issues, I can't ask for one of your famous card showers (though I'd love to). For anyone who would just like to send an email to me with their name (first is fine) so I can create a list for her of people praying for her, that would be great. Time is ticking and she needs to decide in a matter of days. I can't imagine being a teenage mother, let alone all alone. Blessed Mother, wrap in your mantle of love!

Thank you,
In Christ Our Life,
Karen


AND A GOOD NEWS UPDATE:
Deborah Kochman <debkochman@gmail.com>

Sylvia,

Amy called this evening to tell us that her home pregnancy test was positive!!! We are thrilled but cautiously optimistic - we would all appreciate everyone whispering a little prayer for Amy and this new little one.

Thank you for the update on Aunt Marie...if she wonders at all about "why" - let her know that she and Uncle Herman (and of course the white rose story) were part of our dinner conversation Sunday evening. *hugs*

Best,

Deb


Not sure what nudged me to awaken to check PR at this early hour..........but after reading this prayer request from our friend Keith about his brother and also our friend Ken, I knew why and started praying. When I drove out to Pittsburgh to visit Katie, Meghan's roommate from Penn State who was paralyzed in the car accident - it was Keith and his wife Becky who I stayed with. Keith and Ken are twins and were roommate/friends of Victor at Penn State........Ken lives in CO and is an avid skiier, etc........Please pray for Ken's complete healing from this accident.........thanks. <3 href="http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=1JiJzqXxgxo" title="http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=">http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=1JiJzqXxgxo

*************************************************************************************************************************
Latest on aunt Marie:
When I arrived today she was in bed.......a bit drowsy as she had just retuned from physical therapy. She awoke when she heard me talking with uncle Herman. "Sylvia, come here. I have to tell you something. Today I stood up for myself. When the aide came in this morning I asked her who my nurse was. She told me Linda. I told her I wanted to see Linda right away. She asked me what was wrong.........and I told her. MY FAMILY BROUGHT US HERE BECAUSE THEY THOUGHT THAT WE WOULD RECEIVE GOOD CARE HERE. WE ARE PAYING A LOT OF MONEY TO STAY HERE AND WE ARE NOT GETTING GOOD CARE. NOBODY CARES. I HAVE A SORE SPINE AND I HAVE BEEN TELLING YOU FOR DAYS. NOBODY DOES ANYTHING. YOU FLOP ME IN BED AND THEN YOU LEAVE. Needless to say the aide went to get "Linda". Aunt Marie said she told Linda the same exact thing. I AM TELLING YOU THAT I WANT YOU TO CHECK MY SPINE AND I WANT YOU TO GET SOMETHING ORDERED FOR IT AND IT BETTER BE PUT ON IN THE MORNING AND AT NIGHT SO THAT I DON'T HAVE PAIN". What aunt Marie is referring to is the skin breakdown in her coccyx area - at the bottom of her spine at her tailbone. It is so red, raw, and sore....soon will open. Aunt Marie nor uncle Herman had any idea that I had already ranted and raved at the director of nursing yesterday before I left. This goes on and there are family members present..........I cannot imagine what those other poor residents do who do not have anyone checking in on them. I commended aunt Marie and told her I am so proud of her for taking the bull by the horn. At least while I was there when I rang for someone to help me get her out of bed to go to the bathroom the response was a bit quicker than previous days......and there was actually a hint of compassion felt. So I thank you from the bottom of my heart and ask you to please continue to pray for angels to surround the two of them.
VICTOR'S DAD:
Victor's dad will be having knee replacement surgery at Coaldale Hospital on January 9th by Dr. Meade (Marilyn, perhaps your Michelle can mention something to him??) - please pray for surgery to go smoothly, that previous medical issues will continue to lie dormant, and that dad will have a quick recovery - HE HAS HIS CARBON COUNTY SENIOR GAMES TO BE UP AND RUNNING IN MAY!!! Would take a lot to keep this guy down! : )
******************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Update on Ken

I spoke to him today. He is on a great deal of pain medication so that he is able to have movement. He was thrown around a lot (no seat belt) and would be too stiff for any physical therapy.

He also has a bruised liver, partial collapsed lung. Right arm & shoulder are not perfect and is cause for concern. Nerve bundle for that area may have been stretched injured damaged inflamed whatever. The recovery may or may not go well for Ken. Therapy to start now.

He will probably be in the hospital till Sunday or so.

I am leaving Friday night with Ken's friend Al Worthington and son Tim for a Road Trip west. Will hopefully arrive 24 hours down the line. As I said, it was planned before the accident and I am still going to ride out with them. Had considered flying out as soon as I heard but needed to do these last days of work to get away.

Love to all. Thanks for your replies.

Keith
***************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

Good morning Syl,

I am asking for prayers for Gabriella Snyder. We have had her on our prayer line several times before. This time her husband found her on the sofa and was unable to waken her. \She was admtted to LVHC in acute care. They found she has some type of infection in her blood stream. They are trying to find an anti biotic that may stop this infection. This lady has had continued health problems for about two years. Please pray that she will finally get her health in better shape for the New Year and that quick results will be forth coming to clear up this recent infection. Love to you all, By the way would someone e-mail me the schedule for prayer group. I would like to make a real effort to attend this year. Carole Y.


***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Please let's continue to keep Becky in our prayers .............. the previous e-mail she is referencing I was not able to open and I had sent it back to Becky..........so know that she is appreciative of our prayers......

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, Syl! I had sent you an email to thank everyone for their prayers since the hospital changed it's mind and decided to keep me and the Pastoral Care Dept Keep me in your prayers. The past month was very difficult for me and even though the result was good, I'm still feeling "shell-shocked". Love, Becky Chaplain Rebecca BurtDirector, Chaplaincy ServicesEaston Hospital250 S. 21st StreetEaston, PA 18042610 250-4027


****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
You may remember that Marilyn Cassidy asked us about a week or so ago to pray for Michelle who had just delivered her third child and was having issues with her blood pressure - we need to storm heaven!!!

Hi Loves,
Michelle Gaudioso is NOT doing well. I thought no news was good news, but not so in this case.
Michelle G., my co-worker Susan's sis-in-law, cannot get her bottom # of her blood pressure regulated - it's been consistantly over 100. Now they are going to test her kidneys and heart to see if anything is wrong there. And little Katherine, born Dec. 19, has a bad cold, cannot breathe, so mom has kept her in bed with her for fear of not hearing her baby in case she's in some distress. Surely not good for mom's BP either! Please continue praying for them.

Also, Ramona's father, 88, who was in Cedarbrook Fountain Hill, got pneumonia over Christmas, is now at home in Emmaus with Ramona's sister Amy from NYC providing care for him with hospice nurses. Amy is only part-time, so she will be getting no pay while home. And Ramona's husband, Jeff will have surgery to remove the mass from his rectum on Friday, Jan 4, so please especially pray for him also. That's it for now. Love, Marilyn


Hi Loves,Here are some more requests from Renee. My neighbor, Peggy, is now in Lehigh Center, doing better after breaking her pelvis, and I think somewhat improved with her stomach distention, also, but she still needs our prayers. Thanks.Love, Marilyn

Here are the requests I had mentioned and one more I just found out about. 1. Barbara, who was my boss in the Student Affairs office of PennMed when I was in college, was diagnosed with breast cancer in August. She has had a lumpectomy and four months of chemo and has more surgery and 6-8 weeks of radiation coming up. 2. Mike (from Chestnut Bluffs - Mike and Rocio) has a niece who was just born prematurely. Mike's sister Jackie and her husband Noel struggled (a long time) to have a baby in the first place and then she was delivered about 28 or 29 weeks gestation. Baby is Sloane and is about 2 weeks old and doing okay, but not out of the woods yet. 3. Gina (our neighbor here - the landlord's wife) grandfather is in the hospital with back pain of some unknown cause. I don't know his name - Mr. ? M Tell "the girls" I said hello and thanks for the prayers. Love, Renee


PLEASE BE SURE TO READ THE LAST PR AND START PRAYING FOR DIANE'S MOM ROBERTA. It might give comfort to Diane if you e-mail her to let her know you are praying - or if any of you have had this experience THANKS. <3 href="http://www.blogger.com/" title="http://">http://www.blogger.com/


***********************************************************************************************************************


Debbie Turks <http://www.blogger.com/>

Syl,

Can you please add Dr. C to the prayer chain. His father was murdered (beaten to death) on Christmas day and was buried on New Years.
It happened in his home and apparently there was no forced entry. He is one of the doctors that I work with. He is really having a hard time with it.

thanks
Debbie
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Connie P Trach <http://www.blogger.com/>

Good news -

My cousin's breast surgery (seems so long ago!) turned out OK - no cancer.
My uncle (her father) who had the heart attack and broken foot is doing OK as well. The foot is taking a very long time
to heal, but he's coming along.

I do have to prayer requests -

My aunt Barney (don't laugh - long story!), mother and wife of those above, was hospitalized early on Dec. 31st with
congestive heart failure. They sent her home on Wednesday and she should do well with meds and diet.
My cousin, on the other hand, is coming just a bit unglued. In addition to her health issues and those of her parents,
her employer is not showing a whole lot of compassion. It just makes everything so much more difficult.
A friend (God knows her name) is being treated for Stage 0 breast cancer. The doctor has assured her that this is very
treatable and that she will be fine, but it is still a very frightening thing for a young mother.
************************************************************************************************************************

Aunt Marie was so-so today. She had a lovely young girl who was her aide - I then went out to get her name.....I explained to Jonna that we have had a rough few days with regard to the care, but I definitely felt the care and compassion when I walked in to the room - I told her that I will be letting her superiors know what a great job she was doing. She apologized that we had a bad experience thus far "but you sure made my day - thanks, that really makes me feel good what you said!"......I know it was all of your prayers for someone compassionate to be sent to Aunt Marie. Thanks. Poor Jonna!.....I told aunt Marie that anytime she needs anything she should ask for her! : ) For a few moments aunt Marie ........sort of fades off.......she closes her eyes, her head drops, and she just has a strange look about her.....this happened when she was at the hospital..........I gently rubbed her arm and asked if she was okay.......she opened her eyes slightly and peeked up at me...."yes, I'm fine, don't worry, it's not the end YET!" God love her! I'll be picking up cousin Tara at the Philly airport tonight........aunt Marie is looking forward to seeing her but can't understand why she's coming in! <3 href="http://www.blogger.com/" title="http://">http://www.blogger.com/>
Good Morning Everyone,

I am writing to ask all of you a major favor. Most of you know my mom and dad. Would you please say some prayers for them? Ask God to keep them safe and healthy. Let me share with you a little story.

On New Year's Eve day my mom went missing for over 7 hours. As you all know, she has dementia (Alzheimer's.whichever!) but still works 2 mornings a week, cleaning for the priests of SH in Allentown. Well, Monday morning my dad drops my mom off and goes about his daily routine as they have done for the past 5 years. It turns out my mom didn't need to go in that day as it was a holiday. When the priest offered to give her a ride home, my mom told him not to worry about it and walked out the door. She intended on walking the 3 miles home as she has done before. Well, she made a wrong turn and ended up wandering around downtown Allentown for over 7 hours. She left the rectory around 7:45 am. We found her around 4 pm.

My dad has never carried the cell phone Chris and I gave him 4 years ago, so he never got the message that my mom was gone until after 10 that morning. He immediately filed reports with the Allentown and Whitehall police departments while Kayla called my sister and I. By lunch, my brother-in-law, John, had left work and he, Donna, Chris, Joey, Jonathan and I were out searching. Kayla joined the search when dad got home from the PD. Someone needed to stay home. After an exhausting few hours of searching, driving around in endless circles, Donna and John finally found her. She had no money, no ID and had been walking continuously all day. She was so disoriented that she didn't even know who Donna and John were. She was headed in the right direction home (on Mickley Road) but was so exhausted none of us believe she would have made it. I just thank God it was not as cold a day as it has been the past few.

It was inevitable this would happen one day and now that it has, new plans need to be put into action. My dad has finally agreed to USE the cell phone we gave him. I have noticed the progression of her disease a lot over the past few months - she can barely finish a sentence because she can't find the words to use. Her vocabulary is pretty much nonexistent. It is truly heart breaking.

Many of you ask me regularly "How's Mom?" when you see me. I thought I'd share the latest info with you - one of the most terrifying days of my life!! I really didn't think I'd see her again!
Again, I ask you to pray for my mom and dad and that God will give all of us the guidance to begin making the type of decisions we need to make!

Thank You,
Love,
Diane
*************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Hi Loves,

Ramona's husband Jeff's report yesterday was that "the surgery went fine." I hope that means they just removed the mass from his rectum and didn't have to remove anything more. She was not able to wait for him to come out of recovery because, of course, he was taken into surg. later than they expected, and her father, Mr. Trumbore, was in really bad shape, so Ramona's sister was going to pick her up at St. Luke's. Their father deteriorated much more on Friday, and had lesions all over his body. They expected him to pass away last night or today, but I didn't hear anything yet.

I forgot to ask for prayers for Ramona's sister - Amy's boyfriend's mother had part of her vagina removed on Thurs. and that surgery was successful, but please pray for her recovery. And of course, pray for a speedy and complete recovery of Jeff, too. It will be tremendously difficult since he is the driver in their family, and will now be laid up for a couple of weeks.
Their son is in state hosp. still, and he depends on his father for money and cigarettes.

Love, Marilyn

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Cmycross@aol.com <Cmycross@aol.com>
Good evening all,

I just had a call from a friend of mine asking for prayers. Our dear friend Trina Trexler has been on our prayer line before because she has been battling a cancer in the blood stream for two years. She goes for chemo every other month for this cancer. Last week she was diagnosed with Lymphoma. A very aggressive type she was told. She asked to be put on our prayer line especially because her son is getting married in May and she would like to be here to see this happen. Her future daughter in law's mother also has cancer, her name is Susan Sanders. Now the young people are afraid both mothers may not make it until May. A heavy burden, to be going to school (young lady is going to be an astronaut), planning a wedding and trying to spend as much time as possible with mother's they may be losing soon. Both women need prayers for their cancer treatment to go well and the young people for peace and the strength to cope with all that is going on. I also am asking for prayers for my dear friend Dolly Magan, we have prayed for her several times before but she needs God's help to control her health. She has osteoporosis, cholestral problems but her diabetes is so out of control They have tried her on a new experimental drug, also one she had to inject 1/2hr before eating a meal, several different pills and now injections. Nothing seems to bring down and keep the count down. So many people are comforted by our prayers. You are all so faithful. I am so thankful that our Lord put me intouch with you and has taught me the real friendship brought to us by praying for each other. What a wonderful God He is. Love to you all, Carole Y.

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Hi Aunt Syl, we have a prayer request for Perry's co-worker Linda. (Perry's starting his new job tomorrow so this is the office manager from his "old" job...she was at my shower.) Her husband is a firefighter and was killed in a fire this morning. They have a son who is in high school. Obviously this has been very devastating to them. They can use all the prayers they can get. Thank you! Cara

http://wnep.com/Global/story.asp?S=7584157
(the name is spelled wrong in this article...it's Robeson)

http://pahomepage.com/content/fulltext/?sid=3a8740fd299d31f12464ac2e3744c19c&cid=22837

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Just received this from cousin Sharon in CT (Victor's cousin with the five young girls) - she had asked us to pray for the Abissi family a couple weeks ago - mom was dx with cancer. Pray for safe travel for Sharon - she and the girls, along with her brother Nick and his son Jake were in Lansford at Victor's dad's where we all celebrated Orthodox Christmas. Michele took the train from Boston to CT and Sharon was kind enough to pick up Michele and bring her down also so that she wouldn't miss the festivities.........they are on their way back home. Pray also for Michele, that she makes her "T" connection at midnight to get back to school - I just spoke with her and traffic must be pretty heavy as she said it feels like they've been traveling for days! : ) Thanks. <3 href="mailto:pat.walters@gmail.com" title="mailto:pat.walters@gmail.com">pat.walters@gmail.com
>
Hi Sylvia,

I'm writing to ask for prayers for mom. We think she has had one or more TIA's
and Hospice was started over the week-end. I'll be heading to PA sometime this
week.

Thanks,
Pat
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Hi Syl...I have a PR for a cousin of mine...He is 95, His name is Henry. He has been in the hospital since Christmas Eve...His health is failing, had galeblatter surgey and has not fully recovered...Pray that he doesnot suffer and if God is calling he has a peaceful journey. Thanks Julie

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"Kat" is an 11 yr old girl from Alabama who we have previously been asked to pray for.......she has a brain tumor and has been undergoing treatment......let's hope and pray tonight that this is nothing serious. Thanks. <3>


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Nick is a 17 yr old we have prayed for before.........he's currently undergoing treatment at Sloan and has yet another bump in the road.........please pray for this to resolve on its own.....this family has been through a lot.

Prayers are needed. Nick had a great time last night out to dinner. We walked 13 blocks and he ate like a horse. Shortly afterward he started experiencing an all too familiar stomach pain. After a fitful night we ended up in urgent care today. An xray has revealed another bowel obstruction. He is in cat scan right now and I have run back to the room to gather things. He is being admitted and they are watching him overnight before making a decision about surgery. He CANNOT have another surgery! We are going skiing in two weeks and he is sooo behind in school. We need his body to resolve this obstructon on its own ( a possibility). He is down and in pain. Please pray for this to resolve without surgery, honestly I don't think we could take that right now. WE just need this to resolve, please pray! Caryn

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Michele just called.........you may remember we prayed for her friend Lauren Young's grandma "Oma" in May when she became quite ill and was not expected to make it........but surprised everyone and was looking quite good at Lauren's wedding in June..........well Oma was taken to the hospital and is not doing well. Please pray for Oma.

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Frank AND Matthew just lost their wife(and mother)Chris L Christmas Day 2 years ago in a freak Ice Accident and now I just called to CHECK UP on them and theris dog SYD had to be put down.Please whisper a little prayer for them-their struggling-Thanks

Jan's mom Norma in Florida just found out she has a brain tumor-no diagnosison what kind yet-Jan is a Radiation Therapist and her mom is coming "HOME" to be in Pennsylvania to have Radiation Therapy"Consult"for treatment if it's cancer.Please whisper a little prayer that Jan can be strong as her mother goes step by step.

Thanks all you Angels, Maureen

Saturday, January 5, 2008

Paul Walker MAYO Marathon

In a message dated 1/4/2008 12:37:01 P.M. Central Standard Time, grandmalindawalker@gmail.com writes:

We made our drive to Mayo in the frigid, windy temperatures on New Year's Day. The car was really blown around, but at least there was no snow. ,We met with our doctor on Wednesday morning ay 9:30 and she had already read through the files that we had hand carried up here. We really liked her and she spent quite a bit of time with us. Then we were off to the races with tests and appointments which really wore Paul out. He had an EKG, urine test, chest X-ray, bloodwork, and an appointment with the social worker on Wednesday. On Thursday, he had a bone marrow biopsy for which he was sedated - Yeah! He also completed his 24 hour urine collection. That pretty much completed all of the necessary tests since we had brought up copies and/or CDs of all of his past tests. He felt up to going out to eat last night which was great.

Today we had an appointment at The Gift of Life Transplant House which is where we would probably stay if we decide to have the transplant here. They said that the usual stay for a stem cell transplant is 6-8 weeks. The bedrooms are pretty small with a double and a twin bed in each and a recliner and small desk. TVs are not allowed because they want to encourage mingling and gaining support from others. There are common rooms with TVs and lots of sitting areas. You are provided two sets of towels and sheets and are responsible for your own laundry and cleaning. There are kitchens to cook in and numbered cabinets, freezer space, and refrigerator space. The cost is only $25 a night. It would be pretty close quarters for such a long period of time. Good thing Paul and I like each other.

Anyway, the big decision will still be where to have the transplant. We have been so impressed with Mayo. They really do put the patient first. KU, on the other hand, has a strong pull because of being at home. Hopefully when we meet with the doctor on Monday afternoon to discuss test results, there will be something that will help us make the decision.

We plan on driving home on Tuesday, weather permitting. Right now the weather channel shows snow for Tuesday, but that is still pretty far in the future.

Thanks for all of your prayers and support. We know that they are helping and bring us a lot of comfort. -- Linda(Calvin's grandmother!)

Thursday, January 3, 2008

Paul Walker at Mayo Clinic for Tests

In a message dated 1/2/2008 6:17:28 P.M. Central Standard Time, grandmalindawalker@gmail.com writes:

Happy New Year to you too! We are in Rochester at Mayo. We met with the doctor today and Paul had lots of tests; more tests tomorrow and then we meet with the doctor again on Monday. Keep us in your prayers.

Thanks
Linda Walker
Calvin's Grandmother

Maggie and Grayson DOING WELL!


In a message dated 1/3/2008 9:38:17 A.M. Central Standard Time, Siggy52697 writes:

Ah, the power of prayer. Here is an update on my friend Jill's niece and nephew.
God Bless,
Mary Frances ~^~

Thanks to everyone for all of their prayers. Maggie is now 5/11 and Grayson is 6/8.

Monday, December 31, 2007

A New Year's Message


Can I borrow $25?

A man came home from work late, tired and irritated, to find his 5-year old son waiting for him at the door.

SON: 'Daddy, May I ask you a question?'

DAD: 'Yeah sure, what it is?' replied the man.

SON: 'Daddy, how much do you make an hour?'

DAD: 'That's none of your business. Why do you ask such a thing?' the man said angrily.

SON: 'I just want to know. Please tell me, how much do you make an hour?'

DAD: 'If you must know, I make $50 an hour.'

SON: 'Oh,' the little boy replied, with his head down.

SON: 'Daddy, may I please borrow $25?'

The father was furious, 'If the only reason you asked that is so you can borrow some money to buy a silly toy or some other nonsense, then you march yourself straight to your room and go to bed. Think about why you are being so selfish. I don't work hard everyday for such childish frivolities.' The little boy quietly went to his room and shut the door.

The man sat down and started to get even angrier about the little boy's questions. How dare he ask such questions only to get some money? After about an hour or so, the man had calmed down, and started to think: Maybe there was something he really needed to buy with that $25.00 and he really didn't ask for money very often. The man went to the door of the little boy's room and opened the door. 'Are you asleep, son?' He asked. 'No daddy, I'm awake,' replied the boy. 'I've been thinking, maybe I was too hard on you earlier' said the man. 'It's been a long day and I took out my aggravation on you. Here's the $25 you asked for.'



The little boy sat straight up, smiling. 'Oh, thank you daddy!' He yelled. Then, reaching under his pillow he pulled out some crumpled up bills. The man saw that the boy already had money, started to get angry again. The little boy slowly counted out his money, and then looked up at his father. 'Why do you want more money if you already have some?' the father grumbled. Because I didn't have enough, but now I do,' the little boy replied. 'Daddy, I have $50 now. Can I buy an hour of your time? Please come home early tomorrow. I would like to have dinner with you.'

The father was crushed. He put his arms around his little son, and he begged for his forgiveness. It's just a short reminder to all of you working so hard in life. We should not let time slip through our fingers without having spent some time with those who really matter to us, those close to our hearts. Do remember to share that $50 worth of your time with someone you love.



If we die tomorrow, the company that we are working for could easily replace us in a matter of hours. But the family & friends we leave behind will feel the loss for the rest of their lives.

Friday, December 28, 2007

A Christmas Story


It was the day after Christmas at a church in San Francisco. The pastor of the church was looking over the crèche when he noticed that the baby Jesus was missing from among the figures. He hurried outside and saw a little boy with a red wagon and in the wagon was the figure of the little infant Jesus.

So he walked up to the boy and said, "Well, where did you get your passenger, my fine friend?"

The little boy replied, "I got Him at church."

"And why did you take Him?"

The boy explained, "Well, about a week before Christmas I prayed to the little Lord Jesus and I told Him if He would bring me a red wagon for Christmas I would give Him a ride around the block in it."

12/28/2007 Sylvia's UPDATES

The following is an update on Victor's aunt Nell from her husband, uncle Steve - they live in Detroit. We've been praying for Nell..........please continue. And please feel free to send uncle Steve an e-mail (his address is below) to let him know you are praying - I know it will mean so much to him. Thanks. <3>

Sorry for being late on the update but this has been a little difficult the past few days. A couple of days ago, they were starting to wean Nell from theventilator and were down to 8 % and ready to start at 6 %.. Unfortunately, shewasn't quite ready and they had to bump her back up to 10% where she has beenstruggling since. This morning we were having our family conference with theMedical staff . Kathy, Larry, Steve and I were discussing her progress when Dr. Stern said that she was having a problem with her blood counts. Her bloodpressure was low, Hemoglobin and Potassium levels were below normal. He thenmade a decision to send her to Botsford Hospital for more advanced treatment. We all just returned because she is resting comfortable however she will remain in intensive care until her strength comes back. She was receiving a bloodtransfusion while we were there. As of now the prognosis is ok but only timewill tell. Lets pray that when we go back to visit her tomorrow morning, allwill be improved. She is getting excellent care.
Your continued support is very helpful and for that I want to thank you.
Steve
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AUNT MARIE UPDATE

You will just never believe this! Around 1130AM I received a call from the Case Manager saying "your aunt Marie will be discharged today to Country Meadows skilled nursing" - WHAT???.....she explained that the physician who came in to see her this morning said she could be discharged. I told her that before I left this morning I asked for it to be noted in the chart that I wanted a call from the physician - she said she could try to track him down.......I asked if she was aware that aunt Marie was at death's door last night.... She said she can only follow the physician's orders and that aunt Marie would be transported between 2-3 PM. Well, I have to tell you - now don't get me wrong, not by any means is aunt Marie doing "well", but she definitely is much better than last night! She can actually complete a sentence without stopping for three minutes between each word. I am just in amazement. I told aunt Marie I just couldn't believe it........."everyone came to say goodbye to you last night"......her response: "I know. What am I doing wrong???"!!! We got her settled in bed surrounded by her pillows just the way she likes it. She is on the first floor of the assisted living - in the skilled nursing area - and uncle Herman is right upstairs on the second floor. He went up to eat his dinner at 5PM so that he could come down at 530PM to feed aunt Marie. So..................aunt Marie's time to leave this earth is not just yet. I do pray that when it is her time to go that it will be quick and peaceful. Thanks for praying. <3>To: Elaine and Jim Subject: AngelaDate: Fri, 28 Dec 2007 01:48:17 +0000

> She is Sierra Vista Hospital in isolation. She has what they believe to be a > MRSA infection that has gotten into her blood stream. When she was admitted > early this morning, she had 4, I guess you would call them sores, in her legs. > She now has 8 on the legs and 7 in her scalp. She is getting two IV antibiotics > and the doctor told Nancy they will either work or they won't and if they don't > Angela will die. That's it. We need prayers desperately that they work. > For anyone interested: hospital phone number is 520-417-3175. You must ask > for room 118. She is the only one in the room. > > PS Bob has an appointment with the lung guy on January 8 about the mass in > his lung. (That's Nancy's Bob)> > > Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to > all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which > is Christ the Lord> Luke chapter 2

Hello all, Mom just called from North Carolina and asked me to send an email with an update. She had talked to Aunt Nancy a little while ago. Angela has 2 new sores today. She also has 2 old sores that are now open and draining. This is what they want them to do. Mom says they are really draining alot. They believe the second antibiotic is starting to work. Aunt Nancy says her color is not so gray today. She also asked the doctor how long Angela would be in the hospital. The reply was a long time. She has to stay in the hospital until this is all completely out of her system. If I hear any more I will pass the word along. Hope everyone I didn't see had a very Merry Christmas. Hope you all have a wonderful New Year.Love,Kristen

Lisa LEFTIE doing Well!


In a message dated 12/27/2007 2:48:44 P.M. Central Standard Time, LisaLeftie writes:
Hello Rick:

I am doing pretty good. Had my first chemo treatment a little over a week ago. Will have them every 3 weeks for a while. Probably will go back to work soon Will talk to my oncologist to find out if its ok.
I had a nice Christmas. Mom cooked, the food was great. Talk to you soon

Lisa

Logan, the Sky Angel Cowboy!

This call to a radio station takes about 3 minutes of your time. Got some time to spare for a GREAT message? Click this link...

http://youtube.com/watch?v=zCdZwitrNoY

UPDATE: Prayers for Paul Walker WORKING!!!!



UPDATE 12/28/2007

We had an absolutely wonderful Christmas. On Christmas Eve we had Amy, Aaron, and Calvin, Andrew, and Marcia's family for dinner after attending church at 4:00 that afternoon. Amy, Aaron, and Calvin decided to spend the night with us Christmas Eve which was a real treat. Andrew came the next morning for brunch. We spent a relaxing and enjoyable Christmas with the kids.

Paul continues to feel better which is a true blessing. He has been able to almost eliminate the drugs that he takes for breakthrough pain. His extended release oxycontin is handling the pain at this point. He is much more mobile and is actually able to do a few things and enjoy life a little. The pain medication still causes some fuzziness, forgetfulness, and confusion. His hemoglobin is still low which causes a lot of fatigue, and he is still isn't driving; but it is all so much better than it was. He is continuing on short term disability.

We spent today at KU Cancer Center. Paul had labs at 10:30 which ran late, then a 2 hour bone strengthening infusion which ran late, then a 1:00 appointment with his doctor which ran late....so we finally got out a little after 4:00 Anyway, the news was good. His labs all point to the fact that his drug therapy is fighting the myeloma. All of his "numbers" have greatly improved since he started the drugs. On Monday, he started his third cycle of treatment. At this point, it looks as if his stem cell transplant will be at the end of February after his fourth cycle of treatment; but, of course, that is subject to change.

Our appointment at Mayo is January 2 for a consult. We will have to decide then whether or not to have the transplant at Mayo or at KU. KU told us today that their mortality rate for stem cell transplants for myeloma patients is zero which was reassuring. I hope after our visit to Mayo, there will be something that makes the decision easier one way or the other. The Mayo reputation is pretty persuasive, but there are certainly advantages to having the procedure at home.

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UPDATE 12/06/2007
Rick, sorry it has taken so long to get you an update. The last week or so
has been quite eventful.

One of the potential side effects of one of the treatment drugs is blood
clotting. In fact, aspirin is prescribed to help thin the blood. Well, I
still managed to get a clot in my calf. They did a sonagram on the calf (it
is not pregnant) to confirm and then they prescribed a blood thinner called
Coumadin. At this point I believe the clot has disolved but I will still
need to take the Coumadin for a while.

Also, the pain level from the cancer has increased to the point that they
increased my pain med dosage (Oxycodone) from 40 mg to 60.

I am now on a short term medical disibility leave of absence from work which
has been a lifesaver. There is really no way I could be going in to work
these days.

The good news is that after the first month of this drug treatment program,
the Dr. is convinced that it is working. The diagnostics are changing and
pointing in the direction I need them to go. So at this point, it looks
like I am on target for the stem cell transplant, hopefully at Mayo,
sometime early 2008. This is what I have been mostly concerned about - that
the treatment was not working and we were wasting time until we found a plan
that did work. I truly believe that the prayers from you and this group, as
well as others that are praying for me are making a real difference.

God bless you all for the prayers you have contributedd for this cause. I
very truly appreciate them greatly.

Thanks,

Paul Walker
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Update: 12/2/2007
Paul had his second appointment at KU yesterday. He had additional tests run the week before. We had good news and bad news. The good news is that the Revlimid is starting to work on the cancer. The bad news is that he has multiple lytic lesions in his skull (described as punched out holes), and the rest of his bones are thinning. I guess the good news there is that there are not currently lytic lesions on any other bones. He will now be starting monthly infusions of Aredia, a bone strengthener. He is still in a lot of pain. He wasn't sure if he could make it to work today. He is on extended release oxycontin, and they encouraged him to take smaller dosage oxycontin, as needed.

Linda


Update: 11/31/2007

Paul's doctor was not able to get him into Mayo any sooner than the December opening; and in fact, the first opening that they have now is January 2. We change insurance January 1, so I am not sure how that will work out. I am thinking that since Mayo didn't think that it was necessary to get him in earlier, that they don't think it is a crisis - which I am thinking is actually a good sign. Paul is starting on his induction drugs this week. Hopefully they will soon improve his physical symptoms. He is having a lot of pretty severe bone pain even though he is taking hydrocodone. He is not really able to do much besides go to and from work, and that isn't very easy.

We went to KU and had a long consult with a Bone Marrow Transplant doctor and a coordinator on Monday. We got a lot of good, but scary, information. At least we are more informed, and they also gave us a lot of material to read. We still would like to have the transplant done at Mayo, but are keeping our options open at KU. Amazingly, stem cell transplants are done on an outpatient basis. They will not do them unless he has a caretaker 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for the first month. It would be at least two months before he would be able to go back to work, and then probably only part time.

Just thought I'd let you all know the most recent...

Continue with the prayers.

Linda

UPDATE: 10/26/2007

We received the results of Paul's tests from the oncologist. Unfortunately, the myeloma is progressing at a very fast rate. Paul had been having bone pain in his ribs, back and hips since Hawaii. They originally thought that it was due to muscle strains from Hawaii because it came on so suddenly. The most recent tests show that it is myeloma. The doctor is recommending starting immediately on induction drugs to prepare for a stem cell transplant. It usually takes two-four months of these oral drugs to reduce the myeloma before stem cells can be harvested. That is followed by several days of IV high dose chemo therapy, and then the stem cell transplant.

After much research in the last couple of months, we have decided that we would like to go to Mayo Clinic for a consultation and then the stem cell transplant. Unfortunately, they have no openings for consult until December. Our oncologist here is checking with them to see if they can see us sooner. Regardless, Paul will probably be starting the induction drugs very soon. The oncologist says there are very few side effects with these drugs, and that they should improve his symptoms.

Please keep us in your prayers.

Linda

FIRST REQUEST: 9/3/2007
Paul Walker is a longtime friend of mine dating back to our days at Mizzou, where he was president of a business fraternity that I joined. We recently hooked up again, with his wife "Kooch" his college sweetheart. We met for dinner last year and later went to a Mizzou football game. Paul likes to fish, so we tarted making plans to do things occasionally since we are now living in the same area....then this...and the reason I ask for your prayers for Paul...


I am a little overdue on my latest update. Paul finished his 20 radiation treatments on July 26 and has been feeling great. Two weeks ago, he had a visit with his hematologist/oncologist. At that appointment, we found out the results of a cytogenetics test that was done in June. Due to the myeloma, he has doubles of some chromosomes and the absence of chromosome 13. The absence of chromosome 13 points to a more aggressive myeloma with a more unfavorable prognosis. Paul's doctor referred him to KU for a second opinion and stem cell consult. We went to that appointment last Tuesday. The doctor expects the myeloma to need more aggressive treatment within months; originally we had been told that it would probably be years. He has ordered additional staging tests to see how things are progressing. When it looks like things are advancing, the most likely treatment will be several cycles of chemotherapy followed by a stem cell transplant with Paul's own stem cells (autologous) followed a few weeks or months later by a stem cell transplant from a donor (allogenic). An allogenic transplant has many more complications than an autologous transplant.

As I said before, Paul still feels fine. We are enjoying spending lots of time with Calvin who is five weeks old now; and, of course, the cutest and sweetest baby ever. We are also getting ready for our big trip to Hawaii later in September.

Please continue to keep us in your prayers.

Linda

Sylvia's Requests and Updates

Numerous Updates 12/28/2007

In a message dated 12/28/2007 7:19:47 A.M. Central Standard Time, smp75@msn.com writes:

Good morning everyone.....I just got in from staying the night with aunt Marie. Last evening Michele and I went over to visit and to then take uncle Herman back to Country Meadows. When I arrived, aunt Marie did not look good at all....sitting in the chair, slumped........just looking so sad. She started crying, getting very upset, asking why is she still here....."Sylvia, I am so, so weak that I cannot do anything for myself anymore. I am so weak that I can't even pray. Please ask the girls to pray........for me to go home". She really hasn't been eating.........drinking is minimal. She seemed to have really gone downhill from the day before.........each day she declines a bit more. She kept asking why she is still here. I told her that she probably still had things to teach us. Then she felt bad that Michele was there..........she should be home........I should be home...........I explained to her that that is what Michele is going to school for..........to help people who are dying..........I told her that even in her dying she was still teaching. She squeezed my hand. Her oxygen level kept dropping.......getting her in to bed just wipes her out and I assumed that was why.........but her nurse, Sheri, who was so compassionate, was quite concerned. She checked with another nurse........called the doctor. During this time aunt Marie was just saying she wanted to go........and then she said we should go home..........I told her I would stay the night with her so that she wouldn't be alone........she was upset, saying I had to go to work, etc....I told her work could wait. I really did think that this would be the night.........I told her it was okay for her to go home too. I told her so many people were there waiting to see her - she said "I hope so"..... She said "uncle Herman will be okay. I found a nice place for him".....I told her to be sure to fill my dad in on everyone, and to tell uncle Rudy I received the butterfly (while uncle Rudy was dying he told me he would send a sign - shortly after he died - it was 1/13 - a butterfly appeared in our living room) - then aunt Marie asked "was it one or two butterflies"......I told her it was one.......but that our Christmas tree was still up (it was thought that the chrysalis came in on our Christmas tree that year) and aunt Marie shook her head yes. Maybe I overstepped my boundaries, but I did call the rest of the family who all came in. Everyone said their goodbyes and then aunt Marie chased them home. It was just me and uncle Herman. Uncle Herman wanted to stay. So I went down to the waiting area and caught a few winks - gave them some private time. I guess it was about 1230 I went back in....uncle Herman was sleeping.....aunt Marie was wide awake........she was having trouble getting settled...........her shortness of breath seemed intensified...........yet she said it wasn't bad enough to want any medication to help calm her..........she made me giggle......I laid beside her on the bed.........she would drift off, then almost startle herself waking up........she would look over at me and say "am I still breathing?". God love her. She is ready. Quite frequently through the night she wanted a sip of her drink, so I was really glad that we stayed. She seemed really calm and peaceful around 630AM.....poor uncle Herman.........he didn't get much sleep...........both of us "tossed and turned"...........I asked her if it would be okay for me to take uncle Herman back to Country Meadows so that he could get a little bit of rest.........."oh yes, I'll be okay......you just go........really, I’m okay now"...........so I took uncle Herman back........hopefully he is getting some rest..........and now I am going to do the same. Please, please keep praying............for whatever God is waiting for.......... : ) <3 br="">
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kjgunder@comcast.net <kjgunder@comcast.net>

Sylvia, Could you please add my cousin to the prayer chain? We have been praying for her and she still needs our help. Here is the message my mom sent me. Thanks. Aunt Nancy called again at 11 and said they were transferring her to ICU. She has been having a very bad reaction to the new medicine but now has either cellulitis or MRSA and whatever it is it is progressing rapidly. She needs IV medicines for that plus she is dehydrated from her violent reaction to the new stuff. I told Aunt Nancy I would call her today but don't know when I'll get hold of her since you can't have cell phones on in the hospital. I will let you know as soon as I do.laurie d

<laed1225@yahoo.com> wrote:

Please let us know - what is wrong? Is it bad? Can icall her?--- Joan Myles wrote:> She is in the ER now (9:30 PM) and is going to be> admitted. I'll let you know what there is to know as> soon as I do.> > Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of> great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto> you is born this day in the city of David a Savior,> which is Christ the Lord> Luke chapter 2

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A VERY NEAT STORY FROM CAROLE YEAGER:

Hi Syl,

Do you remember when I wrote how upset I was because my friend Louise Wagner passed away? I was shedding a few tears the day before Christmas for several of my friends who were taken home in the last month, then thinking of all my family and the wonderful memories of Christmas pasts, and they are all gone now, then I couldn't stop thinking of Louise. She passed so suddenly. So I went to my email and was quite shocked. There was an email from Louise. When I read it, she had sent this 11/20th and I never received it until 12/24, telling me that she has a new e-mail address and was so happy to be able to send this on because she hadn't been able to get her e-mails for over two weeks. I saved this because no one will think this is real. It took my breathe away. I said O.K. Lord I got the message, she is with you and very happy. What a wonderful feeling it is to have so much faith. Love you, Carole Y

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Numerous Updates 12/12 to 12/26/2007

12/26

dturks510@msn.com
Hi Sylvia,

Can you please add Micah Piccirilli to the prayer chain. He is the father of one of Sara's class mates. I just received an email from the school asking for prayers for him and his family. He is in the hospital with a serious heart condition. He has two younger brothers.

thanks

Debbie
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PLEASE, PLEASE PRAY FOR MY AUNT MARIE.............SHE IS STILL IN THE HOSPITAL AND SO VERY WEAK. SHE JUST WANTS TO GO "HOME" AND CANNOT UNDERSTAND WHY SHE IS STILL HERE. CHRISTMAS DAY WAS A ROUGH ONE FOR HER.......UNCLE HERMAN WAS GOING TO COME TO OUR HOME FOR A COUPLE HOURS, HOWEVER WHEN WE STOPPED TO VISIT WITH AUNT MARIE BEFORE HEADING OVER TO OUR HOUSE, HE JUST COULDN'T LEAVE HER AFTER SEEING HOW BAD SHE WAS FEELING. I CAME HOME THEN AND PUT TOGETHER A FEW PLATTERS OF FOOD AND VICTOR AND MEGHAN RAN IT OVER TO THEM....BUT AUNT MARIE'S APPETITE ISN'T THE BEST RIGHT NOW. AND PRAY FOR UNCLE HERMAN TOO....THIS IS SO HARD ON HIM ALSO. thanks. <3 href="mailto:tmoore@enter.net" title="mailto:tmoore@enter.net">tmoore@enter.net

Please pray for Marion's daughter Karen, who has had so many health problems, & is going to undergo some kind of spinal test on Thurs. God bless. Love, Norine

Dear Ones,

I just received a call from Tom's sister about her oldest son, Eddie, who was run over by a car last night. I don't know all the details, but he was out with friends & somehow wound up under a car's tire. He's in the hospital & needs our prayers, as does his poor mom. Thank you & God bless.

Love,
Norine

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
12/20

Four year old Lauren Flood passed away yesterday - she is the granddaughter of one of our patients.......please keep all of Lauren's family and friends in your prayers.

Also, Frannie Schantz, a long time parishioner of St. Thomas More who volunteered with me on Thursdays taking Communion to the patients and also a member of the No One Dies Alone
program at Lehigh Valley Hospital Center died last evening. Please keep her family in your prayers. Tough time of year. <3 href="mailto:bcnatown@aol.com" title="mailto:bcnatown@aol.com">bcnatown@aol.com <bcnatown@aol.com>
HI Everyone:Please pray for my dad. He fell on Friday and has a compression fracture in his back. He will be having surgery tomorrow morning-midday. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.Betty
****************************************************************************************************************************

Karen Rumore <krumore@yahoo.com>
Hi again,

I'm asking for your prayers again, this time for my friend Sharon and her family. Sharon's Dad died this morning and she'd already lost her Mom years ago. Sharon was very close to her Dad and is taking this very hard.

Please keep them in your prayers and pray for the repose of Mr. Adams soul.

Thank you,
Karen
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
12/18

Aunt Marie is back in the hospital.......she's at LVH-Muhlenberg with congestive heart failure, possible pneumonia.....when I went to visit her on Monday she looked terrible.....and so very weak....I called the dr. - told the nurses I was taking her as she's been declining since I was there on Friday - Dr. Ehrig said to bring her in at 445pm - from there aunt Marie was a direct admission. The swelling in her legs has gone down significantly, but she was still so very weak today. Please keep her and uncle Herman in your prayers.

***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

These prayer requests come from Meghan....

Hello - Please pray for my friend Kelly - her mom was diagnosed with colon cancer a month or so ago... it has gotten worse, and has spread, almost to her lymphs but they are keeping an eye on it and called for intense radiation... 5 hours 5 days a week. Also my room mate Carissa - who is interviewing for a real job, so pray someone hires her! She is bar tending a high class bar now to hold her off. And her grandfather passed away this morning. I don't know if he was sick or anything and haven't heard of anything in the past, I just received a txt from her saying he passed around 1:30am and that she knows he is in a better place. that was it. -- "For the Glory"Meghan R. Pituch The Pennsylvania State University: BA - Art; (610) 597.2936mrpituch@gmail.comhttp://mrpituch.googlepages.com/

*******************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Whalon, Kelee A <kelee.a.whalon@lmco.com>
Please keep in your prayers the mom of a co-worker who was just diagnosed with lymphatic (?sp) cancer.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
12/16

Robyn S <robspears@mailstation.com>

Thank you Sylvia. Sorry I couldn't get back to you on that day. LLLOOONNNGGG day. Mom went in prepared and calm (or she always says she's calm but we girls know she stews internally). Her blood pressure was literally OFF THE CHARTS. They got her calmed down and ready at 10:30am and in she went. She could of course feel all the snaking and watch it on the screen and was nervous as they got to the carotid arteries in the neck area and couldn't move. Finally when all said and done, and back in recovery and coming around, was ready to have supper and then they'd send her home. Well, she developed an allergic reaction and not sure if it was from the IV or the dye used....so they are checking on that. She literally was itchy from the inside out and rash all over. Benedryl and ointments and such and finally by Thursday night after being up most all Wed. night, she was calm and restful and plan to turn in early (by 10pm). She had sent my sister that stayed with her (the nurse) home. By Friday morn she sounded much more like her ol' self. She went for blood draw, the 2 doctors are discussing the next stop. The tipsyness is NOT from the left back artery to the brain at 40-50% blocked. The subclavian main from the heart is 80% blocked. The determination will be made this next week as to what to do. Always at holiday time so we're being patient. Mom said she's calm. So keep the good tho'ts please.

Allyson's testing was 4 hrs in a locked down area as they leave all belongings in the main area and are given only paper and pencil upon entering in case they need to work out some math and treatment plans before answering on the computer. She called me about 4:45pm yesterday relieved to be done and hopeful for the scores. She may know by Monday and up to 2 weeks. We are hopeful for the sooner.

Thanks so much for the tho'ts and prayers and we hope your Mom had a great day on Thursday and enjoyed her suprise this weekend.

Blizzarding and cold, but gorgeous and Christmas-like.....love, Robyn********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************


Hi Everyone,

I returned home from mass today to a phone call I could have never anticipated. Peter Rudegeair, the Catholic psychologist whom I began working for over 2 years ago was killed last night in a car accident. Peter's children range in age from 6-16 and, thank God, his wife is extremely faith-filled. By the grace of God, she was already able to say today that this was his time and part of the Lord's greater plan. Please pray for the repose of Peter's soul and for his wife, Karen, and their children.

Thank you,
In Christ Our Life,
Karen

**********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************Dear Ones,

An old friend who doesn't live in the Lehigh Valley is looking for a good cognitive therapist who is located down this way. He doesn't feel confident in someone from the small town he lives in & would rather head this way to Allentown, Bethlehem,etc. So, I'm looking for some suggestions or referrals if any of you can recommend a good therapist. From what he told me, a cognitive therapist uses talk therapy, not just automatic medication for anxiety or depression. This friend has had some episodes of anxiety/dep over the past 20 years & recognizes his symptoms showing up again, so I'm so pleased he reached out for help. I'd really appreciate any help you can offer about a therapist you know or have heard is good so I can recommend them to him. Thanks so much & God bless.
Love,
Norine
P.S.-Sylvia, would you think Becky might be able to refer someone? As a hospital chaplain, she may hear about, or even meet, some therapists she might think would be good.


MARILYN RESPONDED THAT PERHAPS RICK SHALL WOULD BE GOOD..........BERNIE, DO YOU BY CHANCE HAVE ANY FEEDBACK ON THAT? KAREN R, PERHAPS YOU HAVE A
SUGGESTION? - IS THIS AN AREA OF YOUR EXPERTISE?


******************************************************************************************************************************
Paul Kita <kitapc@rcn.com>
Season's Greetings Everyone, With each passing day, we usually, without fail, receive a request to pray for someone or something. All of us take these requests seriously and provide those much needed prayers. As a result these petitions are answered by God for us, in his own special way. Sometimes we receive the answer when we least expect it, other times we watch the answer unfold before our very eyes. Whatever the case, it is all made possible because of those precious moments that we spend praying to God on behalf of others. With that being said, we humbly approach you and ask if you could spare at least one more moment a day for one more prayer for our daughter Megan. Megan has been suffering for the last 3 years with jaw pain, which at times ranges from uncomfortable to excruciating. The causes of this ailment range from a multitude of things including damaged or injured tendons, ligaments, or cartilage disk, arthritis, contracted muscles and pinched nerves, just to name a few. Over the past few years she's been to pain management doctors, oral surgeons and physical therapists with limited results. For the past six months she has been going to a doctor renowned in treating this kind of ailment. We were very hopeful of a positive outcome for Megan as the many other symptoms associated with the jaw pain, such as head aches, neck aches, jaw clicking, and ear pain, were disappearing one at a time. However, in the last 2 months, the treatment has run into an obstacle in that the jaw pain is not going away as the doctor figured it should. This past Tuesday, Megan received her last dose of medicine, injected 6 times directly into the jaw bone and surrounding areas, a definitely painful experience. These injections, coupled with two more weeks of therapy are the last steps of non-invasive treatment. Should this treatment not succeed in removing the pain completely, then the next course of action, based on this doctor's experience, would be surgery on the jaw. We're not sure if that's the right thing to do as there are still other theories and alternatives out there. But we're hoping not to get to that point. And this is where our request for prayer comes in. Would you please pray that the last round of injections coupled with the next few weeks of therapy will be enough to eliminate completely the jaw pain that Megan has had over the past few years? As all of you with children know, there is nothing more painful than to watch one of your children suffer for whatever the reason. We believe that the prayers will not only help Megan, but they will help us too. Thank you, and Merry ChristmasLove and Peace, Marie and Paul

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
12/14

kjgunder@comcast.net <kjgunder@comcast.net>

Hi Sylvia, I have a couple of prayer requests to pass along. It hasn't been a good couple of months. In October my friend, Michelle's father passed away. He had been suffering from cancer and it is a blessing that he is no longer in pain. My prayer request is for Michelle. She has been depressed for some time even before her fathers death and it is really bad now. We are helping her but she sure could use some prayer help. In November, one of my bosses died suddenly at the age of 40. It has been a very difficult time for us at the office as we mourn the loss of our friend and try to pick up the pieces. With tax season just around the corner it has added even more stress on all of us. He was a partner who worked 70 hours or more a week during the season. We have all agreed to work extra in light of the situation. Please pray that our office will be able to handle the stress and having to inform so many clients who may not have heard of the news. Last week one of Julia's classmates mother was in a bad car accident. She is the mother of 4 boys the youngest one being 2 months old. She has a lacerated liver and 2 broken legs. Jen is still in the hospital and they say it may be 6 to 8 months before she can walk again. She had to stop breast feeding and isn't able to even see her children every day. The hospital is a good 30 minute drive from here. Please pray that they are able to get through this difficult situation. Some friends of our, Cory and Amber, had a baby girl last week. She was having difficulty breathing so is in the hospital. I heard she may come home today. On Monday their 5 year old boy had a stroke. It affected his left side. They believe he will recover with little side affects. However, they have no idea what caused it or if there are any other issues. Last I heard they were still running some tests. I cannot image having 2 children in the hospital at the same time. They also have another boy, I cannot remember his age but he is young. As you can see, we are in desperate need of some prayers. I thank everyone from the bottom of my heart and know the family do also. Thank you.

****************************************************************************************************************************

AND IT'S ALWAYS SO GOOD TO HAVE AN UPDATE WITH NEWS TO UPLIFT US!

Dawn Zucca <rosejellyjakesplace@msn.com>

For those for you who have been looking for a Peter update/Christmas Miracle to share with your prayer partners and congregations...try this one on for size. We just received an e-mail from Peter's oncologist in NY that he considers him a 100% cure from his Rhabdomyosarcoma!

If you ask Peter what Dr. Wexler say's about him he says, "I'm a miracle" "All my bad cells are gone forever"

"I'm cured"

Oh beautiful star of Bethlehem shine on!

Thank you for your love and support. His web site is still available at www.caringbridge.org/pa/peter.

Dawn

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
12/13

I have periodically asked prayers for a woman named Peggy who lives in St. Louis MO and is undergoing treatment for cancer.....the original prayer request was received from Bock quite some time back....this is what Peggy wrote yesterday.....thought you would all find it such a "GODincident" as Mrs. G. says, or God sighting as Nina P would say.....It also brought back the very special memory of a moment I had at the grocery store just after my brother Stephen's accident.....I would ask strangers on the street to pray for Stephen.....I probably shared this story before, so forgive my repeating it.....standing at the deli counter.....next to me was a mom and her three children who were in their school uniforms - I told them about Stephen and asked if they would pray for him.....well this mom asked if I would mind that they pray with me at that moment............so right there at the deli counter this mom and her children put their hands on me and prayed out loud for Stephen's complete healing....I will never forget it. <3>

My mom is going in on Friday for kidney stones to be removed. There's two and one apparently is large and not in a good location. She's 80 now and getting very fragile. Pray my dad does well thru out this. He's getting more confused everyday and forgetful. He's very scared. Thanks Bev
**************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

Could you please pass along a prayer request. A co-worker has cancer of thyroid. Her name is Darlene and she lives with her husband and 2 children. Her thyroid was recently removed and she is now on a special diet for two weeks to clear her system and perscribe new medications, then she will have radiation. Her spirits are good and she is still working. Please pray for recovery and good doctors. Thank you.

Also our son, Kevin, is now stationed at Pearl Harbor, I know tough duty. But he is in a high stress field so please keep him in your prayers. He is on sub duty and his sub in in dry dock and they are in the process of rebuilding. Long days, including overnight every 3 days. Of course, he won't be home for Christmas so here is his address in case anyone would like to send him a card.

Kevin Cramsey
1410 Pierce St.
Unit #77
Pearl Harbor, HI 96860-4622

You all are in my heart and prayers. thanks, Yvonne

*******************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************


Hi Syl,

Please pass on a couple of prayer requests. Joe Petrella, who had 2 strokes and is paralyzed on one side. He is a fellow Serran. Also for Joe Hartmans brother in law, who had a colonoscopy last week, and worried about results. Thank you so much. I don't remember if I said thank you for the offer to pick me up for the prayer group xmas party. My older daughter had a very bad abcess in her mouth, that went down her throat. She was unable to chew or swollow pills . I didn't want to leave her alone. I had to make sure her breathing was not restricked overnight. If its not one thing its another, but God is always there for us. Thank you for passing on my PR's. Love you, Carole Y.

**************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
THIS UPDATE ON AUNT NELL IS FROM OUR UNCLE STEVE WHO LIVES IN MICHIGAN

Steve Pituch

Hi,
--There is sill no improvement in your Nell's condition. She continues to struggle with the breathing and is some discomfort. When Larry and I visit, she is somewhat sleepy in that they have to give her something to ease the pain. While we were there today, they gave her Vicodin and Xanax. Earlier they gave her some Tylenol and it does remove any stressful condition. We just have to be patient because they have confidence that she is getting stronger. They keep mittens on her hands to keep her from trying to pull out the tube.

On last Friday, December 7th, she was transferred from St. Joseph Hospital in Ann Arbor to the Farmington Health Care Center, 34225 Grand River Ave, Farmington, Mi. 48335 Room #213-1. This is about 7 mile from my house compared to Ann Arbor that is 28 miles away.

It appears that they could only keep her at the Specialty Hospital until a certain plateau was reached and Nell must have accomplished that. Now, she is still on the ventilator and the intent is to wean her from machine so they could remove the tube and get her to breathing on her own. So far, she has only been breathing on her own for about 12 hours and then has difficulty continuing on. She must be free of the machine for 48 hours before she can have the tube removed. As of now, she is not close. She just can't seem to get strong enough yet but we are continuing to pray for her recovery. Love, Steve

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
UPDATE: 12/06/2007

Cmycross@aol.com <Cmycross@aol.com>
Good morning Syl,

Please add Loretta Hartman to our prayer list. She is having difficulty breathing and is restricted to how much walking she may do. So many know Loretta for her wonderful faith and involvement with curcio. Joe asked for prayers for her. Love you, Carole Y.**************************************************************************************************************************Marilyn Cassidy <cassidym@ptd.net>

Hi Loves,

Renee called late this evening asking for prayers for her friend, Christine Bramson, for whom we prayed in the past for her twins, then for her son who got malaria shortly upon arriving in Africa. She's taking her medical boards tomorrow, as well as Suzy's hubby. By the way, this last trip to Malawi was supposed to be long term; they were having a house built for themselves, their children and the nanny/teacher, and the religious organization head (christian missionary) decided he wanted his own friend in that house, so after moving family and belongings to Malawi, they were left without a job and housing. Christine and Brian are both doctors doing missionary work. I forgot to ask Renee for an update on whether they found work in another area. More later.

My niece Michele Ball said the rest of the breast tumor was removed, and she will start chemo in Jan. She's home, and feels o.k. and hopeful.

Also, please pray for my co-worker who lost her key ring with lots of important keys on it. Thanks. M

**********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************


Karen Rumore <krumore@yahoo.com>

Dear Friends in Christ,

My mother in law has been a widower for about 7 years. She meet a man from church who has also been a widower for many years. They were married in April of this year. To find someone to share your life with at 75 years old is pretty wonderful. They just found out that Michael has an aneurysms in his abdomin and needs to have surgery the day after Christmas. Please keep Michael and my mother in law Alice in your prayers. They both have a very strong faith, Mom said Michael has placed this in Gods hands.

God Bless
Karen

*************************************************************************************
UPDATE 12/05/2007
Please say a little prayer for Jim on Thursday morning. He is retaking (every 10 years) his General Surgery Boards and is a bit nervous. Thanks suzy

*************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Nancy Iorio called with the following prayer request.....this young girl in her late 20's is the daughter of her good friends from the Poconos ........(BOCK, WOULD YOU PLEASE PUT THIS ON SEPARATELY AS URGENT?)

Diane Davis........has had two transplants.....was given medication for a sinus infection that conflicted with her kidney medication and now all of her organs are shutting down..........please, please pray for a miracle for Diane........and for her parents, who are so distraught.

**********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Thank you for the prayers for Meghan......she e-mailed me with an update this afternoon.......please continue the prayers as she makes a decision this week with regard to being asked to work on a different project.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

o'connellm@dnb.com

Please keep Stacey and her family in your prayers....

Dear Mary,

Thank you so much for the prayers and for the time that you took to email me and share Stacey's intercession to so many people. I am sorry to say that Stacey and Joey's son, John Christian was born a few weeks ago, was baptized immediately and died shortly after his birth. The family chose to keep the news private until he had been buried and they had time to mourn his loss. Stacey is heading to the doctor soon and finding out the status of her own battle with cancer. She returned to her chemo/treatment shortly after John's birth and can always use prayers as she faces this next hurdle. I am very confident that the family would appreciate continued prayer and condolences.

Please keep up the prayers for this family.
Peace - Erin
***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
We prayed for young Parker Lutz from Macungie who died a few weeks ago .....his mom and dad are considering attending a Compassionate Friends meeting on Sunday night.....they will be lighting a candle and asked if everyone else would light a candle in Parker's memory also.

*****************************************************************************************************************************************
I went to visit Peggy Schiffner today........she had been in serious condition and her mom passed away when they were overcome with carbon dioxide poisoning. Peggy will be discharged tomorrow so that she will be able to be at the viewing. Please keep the Schiffner family in your prayers. Thanks. <3 href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzEa-BQsb_FPvhwEEDhhoN2H9E3gDlmeunZdwsqUZFxs07xWDviOSf5XVCmV6IbrBuecH2xvd2WYyMg-qoGe7ge2XhmEKeGX1KbgbzmSmoEQ_ajArD2AMMm1et8iPo6vsM2k6zrYxYCy0/s1600-r/family%252011-22-07MA17988648-0011.jpg">

UPDATE 12-02-2007

Cheryl Klopp <cherylklopp@yahoo.com>
Would you please ask people to pray for our friend's baby "KG". She was diagnosed with "cow's milk colitis" or a severe milk protein allergy. Mom is being very careful with her diet so she can continue breastfeeding, but the baby is still having problems. Seems that the tiniest bit of milk can make her sick. She'd need a very special, very expensive type of formula if Mom chooses to stop breastfeeding. Please pray for healing for KG & wisdom for her parents as they decide if they should switch to formula. Thank you for your prayers. Much love, Cheryl


(How beautiful is this family?! Cheryl (affectionately known as "Meghan's counselor from camp", her husband Addie, Annelise, and Logan - thought you'd all like to see these
beautiful children we've prayed for)

****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Karen Rumore <krumore@yahoo.com>
Aww, Carole's email was touching! I wanted to pass on a prayer request as well . . . Could you please pray for my friend's Mom who is in the hospital and for another friend's Mom who is facing a mental illness for the first time? I'd really appreciate it.

Thank you!
Love,
Karen
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Hi everyone! I received the following request from Charlotte Rose's family. 11 yr old "Kat" was recently dx with a brain tumor and is undergoing chemo and radiation. Read her mom's e-mail below and please take a moment to sign Kat's site and let her know where you are from. Perhaps we can get all 50 states? Feel free to pass it on. Thanks!
<3 href="mailto:AET1955@aol.com" title="mailto:AET1955@aol.com">AET1955@aol.com <AET1955@aol.com>
For a homebound school project Katherine is keeping track on a map of all of her guest book entries. Here is a copy of the email from her mom:

I have no idea if someone else has already thought of this already but this is the plan for us. Katherine will read the Guestbook entries in her website journal regularly....she loves doing that. I am going to get a big plain map for her and she will post where everyone lives who writes to her. Sort of like the Flat Stanley project you know? Anyway, when I spoke to her teacher yesterday we talked about somehow working her website into a school assignment. This way she learns about all the people who love and support her and where they live and any other interesting facts about those places. I thought it would also help with the first question she asked me when I told her that she had brain cancer. That question was, "Will I be famous?" Kids are amazing aren't they??So, if you would like to help us with this project, please post on her website! Thanks for your help and we pray everynight for all the families whose lives have been touched by this 'stupid cancer' (quoting Katherine).Laurie m/o Katherinewww.caringbridge.org/visit/katherinebarnard

Can you please send this out to our list so we can get her as many as possible!

Thanks!

Sherry

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Pat Walters <pat.walters@gmail.com>

Hi Sylvia and Carolyn,

Could you please pray for a special intention today?
Spread the word, if possible, to other prayer warriors.

Thanks and I'll give you follow-up tomorrow.
Love,
Patsy

*************************************************************************************************************************

Sylvia!

Please pray for Lori and Tim and their family. Lori gave birth to twins yesterday and their little boy is having breathing and blood sugar problems. Her little girl is fine. They asked for our prayers so that all turns out well.

Sharon**************************************************************************************************************************
Norine/Tom Moore <tmoore@enter.net>

Dear Ones,

I was under the impression that my sister Sheila had landed safely with her cat, Dudley, in San Antonio yesterday but I just spoke with her. She had gotten very ill on the plane & passed out, hitting her head & jaw. She has stitches in her jaw now & a large hematoma on her forehead, as well as a nasty concussion. She was taken to the ER when they landed & she was there until after midnight while they did an EKG, CAT scan, etc. She has no idea what made her get so sick with diarrhea on the plane, but it probably led to dehydration & her blood pressure, which is abnormally low anyway, plummeted & she passed out. She's very weak & hurting a lot so she's at her son Chris' house where he can monitor her with the concussion. She sounds terrible & wants prayers for herself & for Dudley, too, who after the flight was dumped off at his house & is alone, poor baby. So, please pass Sheila's name along on prayer lines & say some good ones yourselves, prayer warriors. Many thanks & God bless.

Love,
Norine

************************************************************************************************************************
My grandmother was admitted to the hospital on Friday night after having yet another fall and being extremely confused.....this is all related to her recurrent bladder infection. We just received
a call saying that someone needs to pick her up.....that she's being discharged. My mom had just walked in the door after sitting with her for a few hours today and mom is shocked that grandma
is being discharged. Mom was told that since she was able to walk 140 feet without falling she's ready to go. Linda is picking her up. Please say a prayer that her guardian angels surround her
and that these bladder infections clear!!!

Also..........update on aunt Marie and uncle Herman. They are doing okay......aunt Marie's legs are pretty swollen from fluid build up and uncle Herman seemed to be coughing a little bit more
today, but other than that they are stable. Thanks for the continued prayers! <3>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This is a really good news update!!!! Please continue to pray for Charlotte's complete healing. <3 href="mailto:AET1955@aol.com" title="mailto:AET1955@aol.com">AET1955@aol.com <AET1955@aol.com>
THE SCAN WAS CLEAR!!!!!! The brain was clear and the spine still shows exactly the same as the last 3 or 4 scans, they believe that is scar tissue. They will do a spinal tap on Thursday just to make sure there is no cancer cells left in the fluid.
They are discussing wether or not to put her on a preventive chemo,since most have some kind after radiation.
Will update on the spinal tap results when Sherry gets them next Monday.
Thank you God for the blessing!

********************************************************************************************************************

PLEASE PRAY FOR MEGHAN'S WORK SITUATION..........
************************************************************************************************************************

SylviaPlease pray for my aunt Peggy and Uncle Myles. They are both in their 80s, and uncle Myles will be hospitalized next week for rectal cancer. As far as I know, they have never been apart, and he will spend about 5-7 days in the hospital. They have no children, so we are trying to rally together and help them through this. Aunt Peggy is not in good health, and I could see the fear in her eyes @ the doctor today. Surgery is scheduled for 12/6. Also, please pray for a few special intentions. Thanks Maggie

*****************************************************************************************************************************Louise Wagner who Carole speaks of in her request below was indeed a ray of sunshine. I first met her when Michele took a sign language course and she was the instructor - what a neat, neat woman. So as Carole reminds us................I myself would like to thank each of you for being such a special part of my life. <3 href="mailto:Cmycross@aol.com" title="mailto:Cmycross@aol.com">Cmycross@aol.com <Cmycross@aol.com>
Good morning everyone,

How do people live without God's presence in their lives? The Lord has been so good to me. He brought me through so many traumas in my life, the loss of family, friends and so many illnesses, He has given me the strength to accept His will always and to help me to comfort others who have gone through as much in their lives. He has taught me to give of myself through volunteering to help others and gain the love and peace that this offers. Today I ask for your remembrance of one of the most remarkable women I was gifted to enter into my life. Louise Wagner. Louise went home to the Lord on 11/26. She was born of two deaf parents and dedicated much of her life to teaching sign language to anyone who wanted or needed her services. She was such a true friend to Girl Scouting as well as so many other organizations. I never saw Louise without a smile on her face. She brought so much sunshine, love and friendship into my life. I will miss my daily e-mails of joy from her. Think of your special friends as you read this and call them to let them know how much you treasure their gift of friendship. And the prayers I ask for are for her family and friends who will have a difficult time missing her. She is surely with the Lord and I'm sure reaching out to help already As I was sitting her with tears running down my cheeks, I feel her laughing saying where's the smile. Laugh and enjoy life. So I will laugh every time I think of her and thank her for being one of those angels God gifts us with. Have a day filled with blessings and take the time to see them as gifts from the Lord. Carole Yeager
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Kninecircus@aol.com <Kninecircus@aol.com>
Dear Sylvia,
This prayer request is from my precious friend whose grandaughter was born with her intestines outside her body, and many, many other areas which weren't placed properly. Her dear little hips and legs, and gosh, too many things to mention.
She has had several surgeries already, but today is the big one.
Thanks so much for passing this on.
Love,
Leslie
Pam <psj18062@gmail.com>
By the time I send this, our little Cheyenne will be in the operating room with three surgeons who will make a multitude of changes in her tiny body. Pray for steady hands, sharp minds, and peace of mind for her parents who love her so much and must bear the interminable wait. We don't expect to hear results until evening. It will be a long day. May God keep her tucked in the palm of his hand.

Pam

Cheyenne – November 30, 2007

No bigger than her dolly
Our little one
Who still can't crawl
But climbs with ease
The mountains
That are part
Of her existence.

No bigger than her lamb
Our little one who still can't speak
But tells with ease
The story
That is part
Of her creation.

No bigger than her Daddy's arm
Our little one
Who nestles in
And trusts
That all is well
In her small world.

No bigger than her Mommy's heart
Our little one
Miraculous
Whose spirit
Shines so brightly
Revealing her Creator.

Far bigger than she'll ever know
Our little one
Who's innocence
Inspires us all
To say a prayer
This special day.

6:58pm ....I just received this latest update as I was preparing to send out the PR:
For those of you who don't follow the CarePage, here is an update. At about noon, the anesthesiologist became concerned about Cheyenne's oxygen levels and the decision was made to stop operating for today. The ortho surgeon managed to complete her pelvic reconstruction, but the rest of the surgeries will have to wait until tests are run to determine the cause of the problem. Please continue to keep Dan, Crystal, and Cheyenne in your prayers as they wait for healing and a decision about the next steps.

Thanks.

Pam
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
another prayer request....


We just received this e-mail from Victor's cousin who lives in TN......her dad is uncle Steve from MI (for those who have met him over 4th of July) - please keep this situation in your prayers.

Has Uncle Victor or my Dad told you about my Mom? She had a heart attack October 20th, and actually died for about a minute in the ER. They later discovered she also had pneumonia. She's been on a respirator since the attack, and was sent to a Specialty Hospital that is part of St. Joseph's in Ann Arbor, Mi. to be weaned off early in November. So far, she hasn't been off for more than 12 hours. When my Dad visited her last night she was off, but I don't know yet if she's still off or had to go back on. (My Dad e-mails updates to me every night, and I haven't heard from him yet.) My Dad loses his health insurance December 31st because the company he worked for is cancelling all retirees. Insurance paid $100,000 for her care before she even got transferred to the Specialty Hospital. Eee-gads! I don't know what he'll do without coverage! I'd appreciate it if you could remember them in your prayers.

Love, Kathryn
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Our precious Heavenly Father, we thank You,

For the blessings You've bestowed upon this home and on those gathered here.

We thank You
For all those persons in our lives who have chosen us to be their friends
for truly this is a rich and sacred trust.

we thank You
For our homes, our jobs, and all that we have.
Give us only that which we need.

we thank You
For those serving in our armed services so that we may live in security
and peace. We pray for their families who share them with the world, and
we pray for their safe return.

we thank You for loved ones and friends who have died and gone before us.
Their love abides with us forever. We pray for their families and ask You to
be with them.

we thank You
for teaching us that we can do no great things,
only small things with great love

we thank You
for all who worked to bring this food to us and for those
who worked to prepare it.

for thy bounty which we are about to receive, may we be truly thankful. Amen




UPDATE 11/22/2007



May you all have a most beautiful Thanksgiving Day. For those whose precious loved ones have passed, please know that you especially are in our prayers this day. If you find yourself alone today, please know that you can join us at 2pm for Thanksgiving dinner.
~much love, sylvia (Victor, Michele & Meghan too) <3>


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hello everyone......Happy Thanksgiving! I ask you to please remember my very special friend Becky in your prayers. She's been going through a lot lately.....her dad recently passed away, she became ill and was unable to fly to TX for his funeral......one thing after the other.....now this. Becky has a very strong faith, but as we all know, being human, when it seems that it does not stop it's hard. Pray that something will work out for her. Thanks. <3>

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
MaureenHeil@aol.com <MaureenHeil@aol.com>
Hi Sylvia, Could you please add two intentions to the prayer chain?
Jim Arnold, brother-in-law of Deacon Dom Amadeo will have surgery for advanced colon cancer tomorrow morning at 7 AM and Jane Habel DRE at St. Jerome's in Tamaqua was admitted to the hospital last night with problem with her defibrillator. Please pray for good outcomes for both.
Thanks,
Maureen

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


STILL LOOKING FOR ANYONE WHO MIGHT KNOW OF SOMEONE IN SPRINGFIELD, MO!! - one of my patients is from OK and is trying to make contact with one of his friends in MO, so pray that at least will work out.....and continue prayers for Ed (seriously injured in construction accident) and his wife Jenny.

Norine/Tom Moore <tmoore@enter.net>
Greetings, Dear Ones! Please all be praying for our precious Charlotte, who had the proton therapy in TX & will have her MRI tomorrow to see if it eliminated the cancer. Also, little one-year-old Meghan Norris, who has medullablastoma like Charlotte, is having brain surgery tomorrow, so both of these little girls & their families need special prayers in the next week. Thanks so much & God bless. Love, Norine

Marilyn Cassidy <cassidym@ptd.net>

John sees Dr. Kluck on 11/27 to see whether the CardioSeal (through the arteries to the heart - not through the chest) is an option for him to close the hole in his heart.

Michelle is taking Jezzy to her vet tomorrow to see about Jezzy's cough. Please pray for a good solution to that entire problem - that someone will take her. Also for my co-worker Terri's 14 year old toy poodle's surgery on a mammary tumor. And for Terri's special intention.

My sister Margie's bro-in-law, Jack in CA is responding to chemo and radiation, but still has many treatments remaining.

My bro-in-law, Dick Ball's cat scan was good.

My niece, Michele Ball, goes for her surgery on Fri.11/23. I have not heard the results of the MRI to see how extensive her breast cancer is, so I guess those results will determine what procedure happens on the 23rd - a lumpectomy or mastectomy.

We have a dear Jewish friend, Ann Rosenblum, in our family, and her daughter-in-law, Valerie, is having tingling in her hands and feet. She asked us to pray for her. Val is catholic and Ann's son, Jonathan, is jewish. They have twins who are studying for 1st communion, I think, and Ann helps them with their prayers, because my dear mother gave her all kinds of prayer cards, booklets, etc., and when the kids say "but you're jewish - how do you know these prayers?" Ann says "I had a very good teacher"... my mother and my sister, Helene, who was one of her best friends.

One of my special intentions has been answered, but now I have another.

Lorraine's friend Renee has a son hooked on drugs. Renee and her husband are going to do an intervention this thanksgiving weekend, so pray for their emotional health and safety. Her other friend, Linda's husband lost his job many months ago, has been depressed, his mother died two hours after their daughter was married, and they chose not to tell the daughter until she returned this week and she's mad that her grandmother died and was buried already. But the good news there is that Linda's husband's employer called and said they will hire him back in about a month.

My Renee's friend Rocio, in NC, lost her wedding band, which she made herself, along with her husband's. I'm praying to St. Anthony for that one.

I think that's all. Can someone print this out to take to Carol's, and give her my love. Love, Marilyn

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


A few of the children I follow through the ChemoAngels, etc..., their parents have organized a group "Band of Parents" ....they are raising awareness and money for children with cancer.
I thought I would pass along their latest fundraiser....

http://www.cookiesforkidscancer.org/Pages/Page.aspx

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

UPDATE 11/14/2007

In a message dated 11/14/2007 8:58:46 P.M. Central Standard Time, smp75@msn.com writes:
tbrownid@aol.com

Hi Syl,
We need prayers. Gene's brother Ed was hurt this morning on a construction site in Springfield Missouri. We do not have a whole lot of information at the moment. This is what we have heard, Ed was on a scissor lift and there was control malfuntion, his upper body was crushed, both lungs collapsed and all the ribs on the left side are broken, he also had internal bleeding. He is out of surgery, the doctors had to remove part of his left lung. He is currently in ICU on a respirator. He is awake and we heard that he has asked for pen and paper. His wife is on her way and will be in Springfield sometime tonight.

Gene's mom is staying with the kids, they have 2 boys. I will send updates as soon as I hear more.
Thanks,
Teresa


Dear PGPG:

Rick.....thanks SO much!.....would you please be able to include Vincent's part of the letter so that people know what to donate (DVDs, etc)? Thanks!

Also, another one to add............sadly, with cancer. Parker Lutz is 5 yrs old and lives in Macungie. His website is:

http://www.carepages.com/ServeCarePage?cpn=ParkerLutz1&seed=806672&ClusterNodeID=jb03&tlcx1=default

or http://www.carepages.org/ parkerlutz is the "password"

Parker also has Neuroblastoma - in fact Vincent Patriarco has helped Parker along the journey. Well Parker's family received dreaded news this past week - the tumor has now grown in to his liver. Things are not good. This family really needs our prayers. at 610-360-6873.

Thank you for your donation,

Vince Patricarco
DVD AND ELECTRONIC GAME DRIVE


Do you have any gently used children's DVDs that are no longer watched, or electronic games that are no longer used? Or would you like to donate a new DVD for sick children to view in the hospital during diagnostics or long stays? Or a new or gently used electronic game for them to play?

My name is Vincent Patriarco, a sixth grade student at St. Thomas More School and I am doing this service project as a member of St. Thomas More Boy Scout Troop 439. This drive will benefit sick children in local and Philadelphia hospitals. Having faced cancer myself, I know how much these DVDs and electronic games are needed, appreciated, and enjoyed.

The DVDs should be targeted for ages 3-16 years old and should be in their original cases. Children's programs, young family-type movies, animal adventures, and nature adventures are most liked. General audience and PG are most desired, but PG-13 rating would be considered if appropriate.

"E" games, new or gently used, for PlayStation 1 and 2, Nintendo GameCube, and Xbox 360 game systems are also being collected. The hospitals have these systems available for their patients. New and gently used handheld electronic games like Game Boy, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS (with chargers), as well as "E" rated games, would also be very much appreciated.

A collection box for these DVDs and games will be located in the vestibule of the church or in the school foyer through November 19th.

If you have any questions, you may contact me at vincequest@aol.com with "DVD/Electronic Game Drive" in the subject line, or at 610-360-6873.

Thank you for your donation,

Vince Patricarco
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
FIRST Post: 7/2/2007
Below is an e-mail that Meghan received from her former Penn State roommate, Amanda. Katie was also their roommate the year before last and then went to live in Hershey as she was a nursing student and doing her rotation at Hershey Medical Center. Katie took a semester off and was living with her dad in Buffalo. She was at Meghan's graduation and it was so good to give her a hug in person and I spent quite a long time talking with her. Please keep Katie and her family, and her friends, - most especially the "YA YAs" (there were eight of them that lived together these past four years and that is what they were known as!).
amm451@psu.edu
It seems like this week can't possibly get any better. I don't know if any of you have talked to Katie Duncan but she got in touch with me today to inform me that Katie Smith got into a horrible car accident this morning. They found her at 5am. Her car flipped about 5-7 times. The investigators think that Katie hit a pipe or a drain and the road was wet. I am not sure of the details of the accident but we do know that Katie was wearing a seatbelt (thank god!). Anyways, Katie Duncan informed me of Katie's condition and this is all we know so far: The c-6 and c-7 disks in her vertebrate are dislocated and pinched her spinal cord. The spinal cord is bruised but it does not seem to be too badly damaged. Her lungs are bruised so the doctors have her on a ventilator and her spleen is bleeding which will have to be removed. Katie is unconscious right now but that is due to medications to help her heal and right now Katie is paralyzed from the shoulders down. The doctors plan on weaning her off the medication that is keeping her unconscious and as the swelling goes down then they will be able to determine how paralyzed she really is. So there is hope that Katie will be a lot better off than what it looks right now but we won't know till the swelling goes down and she heals. This accident occurred up in Buffalo and Katie Duncan didn't have any contact/mailing information as of yet. I will keep you all updated as I get information. I love you girls dearly! Please be safe and always wear your seatbelt. Pray for Katie she needs us more now than ever!
Love Always,
Amanda
************************************************************************************************************************

BCnATOWN@aol.com <BCnATOWN@aol.com>
Dad got out of nursing home rehab.Thurs after being away for more than 40 days. Please pray he gets stronger. My sister Pat is now taking care of him. Please pray for her to stay in good health.

Please pray for my Dad's cousin Father Ted Flanigan,MM who died yesterday. Remember he was ordained 50 years last June. His death hit Mom and Dad hard when they found out today.Thanks,Betty***************************************************************************************************************************
UPDATE ON MR SPAGNOLETTE

Karen S. Poshefko <poshefko@ptd.net>
Hi all,

My dad was about the same yesterday. The PT said he did well in his morning rehab session, but less so in the afternoon. When I got to GS aroud 4, he was in a lot of pain. This is to be expected, as the muscles in his neck were cut during surgery to access his vertebrae. The policy at GS is that he has to ask for pain meds, which he doesn't like to take. So, we had a discussion with his nurse and with him - they will offer him the meds and we encouraged him to take them regularly. The vertigo is still a problem and he's on meds for that too.

We're still not sure about a discharge date, and we're getting mixed signals on this. I spoke to his case manager yesterday and told her that having dad come home in a wheelchair is not an option. I told her there is no way my mom is going to be able to push him around. She said he should be "relatively independent" when he comes home, so a wheelchair shouldn't be needed. My dad is still very weak and is on a lot of meds. He's walking in therapy, but when they take him to the bathroom - which is about 10 ft. from his bed - they use a wheelchair. He needs help transferring from the bed to the chair. So, on one hand, they say he won't go home till he's ready, but on the other, there's still talk about him coming home next week. This is causing us, particularly my mom, a lot of stress. I've talked to the case manager about help at home. She said that's an option but we should wait till his discharge date gets closer.

Sorry I haven't been replying to all your notes individually, so here are responses to some of your questions. Not sure what's happening with the person who hit my dad. The policeman who responded on the scene told me in the ER that the woman who hit my dad was not injured. FYI - according PA law, my dad's insurance company will go after her company for the value of my dad's car, but not for reimbursement of medical expenses. So, you may want to check your auto insurance policy and make sure you have enough coverage. As for visiting, we're holding off till my dad gets home and is feeling better. His time at GS is devoted to therapy and rest. He hasn't been sleeping at night, so he naps when he can.

THANK YOU for all the cards, prayers, offers of transportation, etc. I'll be in touch.

Love,
Karen
*************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
UNCLE HERMAN UPDATE: He is still in the hospital - still having a little difficulty breathing and cousin Tara thought his speech was a little slurred - a CT scan of the brain and also of his leg which has been giving him some trouble will be done tomorrow. Tara is going to check in to see about having him transferred to the Lehigh Valley - it would certainly be more convenient for aunt Marie. Please pray for my cousins Tara and Kurt who have been a Godsend this past weekend - Michele's best friend Lauren was married yesterday and Michele was the maid of honor - Kurt reassured us we should stay put and enjoy the wedding and he would take care of things - today Tara flew in from NC to help.
******************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

I am asking if you could include my nephew on the prayer warrior list. Michael was told he had prostate cancer. He goes to see the doctor soon and the doctor wants to operate. Please pray all goes well for him.

Love,
Marian