Hospice

I haven't posted in awhile, but I received so much advice and support from this site at the beginning of Larry's journey, that I wanted to post again. We started Hospice last week and it was a very emotional decision for the family. Even though the tumors continued to grow with chemo, Larry felt like we were at least trying something, but ultimately, the chemo was affecting his immune system and he ended up in the hospital 3 times this summer with complications. I would like to ask for prayers, good thoughts--whatever anyone's preference is--that Larry will not experience anything we cannot handle. His doctor has been very compassionate and supportive and has assured Larry that he will continue to keep his pain in check. We had hoped for a longer journey, but it is not to be.

I would like to thank all those who shared their stories and advice with us at the beginning. This site has been a valuable asset to us. I may not have posted lately, but I have continued to check-in on other's journeys throughout the summer.

May your journeys be full of zeros and may your lives be filled with love and hope.

Karen

My goodness.
My prayers will be said everyday for Larry. Thank you for having the strength to update us. I am deeply saddened by this news. I will pray the Lord also gives you strength and peace during these very difficult times. All my best to you, Karen...

May God Bless you both, and your entire family!

Tony

Karen - our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. May the journey be a peaceful one for you, Larry and your family. God bless you all.....kat and jeff

As with others, I am sympothizing with your extreme difficulty. I hope the God of peace will strengthen all of you during this difficult time. Certainly we will be praying for you.

Age 61
Original data - pre-operation
PSA: 5.1
T1C clinical diagnosis, Needle biopsy - 10 cores, Gleason 7 = 3+4 in 1 core (40%), 7 cores Gleason 6 = 3+3 ranging from 5% to 12%
All scans negative
Lupron administered 4/9/2008 for 4 months (with idea I would undergo external beam radiation followed by seed implants - then I changed my mind).
Robotic DiVinci surgery - Dr. Fagin (Austin) May 19th
Post operative - pathology
pT2c NX MX
Gleason 3+4
Margins - negative
Extraprostatic extension - negative
seminal vesicle invasion - uninvolved
1st Post PSA .04

Dear Karen and Larry,

I am so sorry to hear that things are not going as well as as was expected. Please know that you are both in my thoughts and prayers.

Magaboo

We are very sorry and sad for you and Larry.   You will be assured that my prayers will include your family.   Our lives were introduced to Hospice with my mom's ovarian cancer struggle.   We felt they were so passionate and comforting and we hope your experience will be the same.   God be with you.  Pat and Roger

Karen

I can only add that you and Larry will be in our thoughts and prayers.

If you ever need an ear let me know. My email is always available

Richard

Karen –

I’m so sorry. We’re wishing you both a peaceful journey……

I can't imagine how difficult this has been for you and Larry. May you both know peace and in the midst of this....Tim

Thank you all for your kind words, prayers and support. I would like to acknowledge each of you individually, but since that is difficult, please know that each of you have continued to touch our lives and are a great source of emotional support.  May you all feel the gentle breeze of hope.

Thank you,

Karen

Oh Karen, How strong you are.....I thought of my favorite quote by Emily Dickinson:
"Hope is the thing with feathers... That perches in the soul ...That sings the tune without the words,...And never stops at all...."
I pray that you have peace....Di

We are also keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.

Bob & Sherry

Karen:

You and Larry are in my thoughts as well.

Regards,

JustJulie