Sunday, November 18, 2007

November Gratitude

Dear Family and Friends,
Sorry that I have not updated the blog in over a week! OH, how the time flies. Marty got his pciture taken with his certicate of completion of his 30th treatment and we beelined home. We were overwhelmed with the success of the Benefit on Saturday, November 10th at the Bowling Alley. The place was packed alot of the day and Marty was able to stay longer than I would have dared to guess he could stay. So many of you were there or contributed in some way to the success of the day. We are putting in an official thank you in the News Examiner, but THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts for all who came, bought raffle tickets, donated auction items-or just wished you could have been there. It was wonderful for Marty's moral to see so many do so much in his behalf--and to see so many friends.
Starting Sunday, he had no voice and was so exhausted that I feel guilty that I "allowed him" to stay so long. But the truth is, he enjoyed every minute of it and did not ask to go home until he just could not sit any longer.
He was not able to have much intake of nutrition and has run a fever several days this week. We have visited the ER and he has been having IV therapy because he was so dehydrated. I felt torn about leaving him for the several hours each day that I went into work, but really needed to get some hours in. I am so grateful for the "intermittent family leave" that has allowed me to be with him so much.
He probably NEEDS a break from me now ------ and will especially when he starts feeling better each day. (Not happening yet).
We both feel we have lost a part of the year and are stuck back in July, while the rest of the world is ready for the holidays. It is a very strange feeling.
Dr. Hitchcock was not kidding when she said the effects of the radiation would continure for 1-2 weeks after that 30th and last treatment. He has had new and interesting symtoms as the days have come along and we are not sure what to expect next. All I know is that he IS a fighter and he is determined.
Thank you again for keeping Marty in your thoughts and prayers and for anything large or small you have done to help at this time. Happy Thanksgiving to everyone.
Love, LaRee (Mom) (Grandma Ree)
and, of course, Marty (Dad) (Granpa Marty)

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

We are grateful that the treatments are over and that you are home. We continue to pray for Marty (and of course, LaRee) in his recovery period. No one would have predicted this challenge in your life for 2007, but you have both shown courage and determination in fighting the cancer. Remember how much we love you!
Love,
Bill and Polly June

Anonymous said...

It was good to read some more news on what is going on there in Bear Lake. I hope the next couple of weeks keep getting better for you Marty.I know what kind of a fighter you are and you have fought the biggest battle ever. You are the best. Keep going cuz.

Love to both of you

Anonymous said...

Dear Marty and LaRee,
It has just GOT to get better! We are so proud of you both and of the kids for all they have stepped up to do to help. We are grateful also for the show of love and support and financial help for the benefit that was shared by friends family and community. IT is a reminder of how loved and appreciated you are! Hang in there and know that we will continue to pray for you and hope for a better year for you in 2008! Love, Randy and SunDee P.S. We wish a Happy Thanksgiving to all.

Anonymous said...

Dear Marty & LaRee,
We are so glad that things are going better for you. There will be challenges ahead but I have no doubts that you and your family will be able to overcome whatever comes your way. Happy Thanksgiving to all.
Love,
Diane

Anonymous said...

I am so torn between the need to be here to help with Gus, comfort Beth and her family and come right to Bear Lake. I will be there for Slim's burial on Friday and have told everyone my one priority is to see Marty. He's in my prayers daily and I keep his name on the Boise Temple rolls. Bless his heart for being such a fighter and bless LaRee for being such a trouper of support and love for him. I'm thankful for this blog to keep up on his progress without bugging everyone. Thanks Angie and Deidra (and Marty and LaRee for writing the updates).

Hopefully by Friday I will see both of you at your house!!
I love you, Winnie Mae