Friday, April 22, 2011

Frequently Asked Questions

How are you doing?
I am ok. Some days are better than others. I hate being in D.C. during a time like this. I want to be with my dad and my family.  I’m really looking forward to seeing my dad in a week.
How is Marcus doing?
Marcus is doing ok.  Some days are better than others. He’s been great at supporting all of us and giving us a place to live until my parents are able to move back into their house.  He and I talk by phone, by email, or by text daily.  I’m sure he enjoys my daily emails of “How’s it going”.
How’s your mom?
My mom is a rock. She has transformed into supermom. Between taking care of my dad and driving him to all his appointments, making sure me, Marcus, and Stacey are ok, and cooking meals and shopping for groceries, emailing family and friends, and exercising, she is fairly busy.  She returns to Barcelona on Sunday and has a good support of friends and coworkers there to help her through this time.
How’s your dad?
Tired. In shock. But good. Despite the kidney issues and the effects chemotherapy may be taking on him, he is in good spirits and good health.  He is still making jokes. My brother said he’s eating (apparently chemotheraphy makes you lose your appetite).  When I called last Sunday, he was looking up videos and articles on alternative treatments to combat cancer. I think that’s a good sign.  I talked to him on Wednesday night and he sounded tired but still upbeat. Yesterday we spoke via email and he was still exhausted.  So for all of you who are sending emails or calling, don’t be too discouraged if he doesn’t get back to you right away. He’s not 100%, but he’s trying the best he can. I’m sure he is overwhelmed (in a good way) by all the love and support that is being thrown his way. I know I am.
What can we do to help?
It is wonderful that my family is so loved that everyone wants to pitch in and make our lives easier. Honestly, there is really nothing at this time that I can think of.  My dad has already received dozens upon dozens of chocolate chip cookies from Pam Moon and his niece Robyn. He said he only wishes his friend from Spain, Kaya, were here to help him eat them.
I would say just keep sending positive thoughts out into the universe, praying, chanting, or whatever it is that you do when someone you love is going through a difficult time.  And if you have a really funny story or joke, I’m sure he’d love to hear it.
What are the next steps?
When I spoke to my mom last, she said my dad is schedule for chemotherapy on May 9th and May 31st. So until then, we just wait and hope that these chemotherapy sessions do some serious damage to the tumors.

2 comments:

  1. Girl, you ROCK! I appreciate the updates--they are so informative and so, well, dang enjoyable to read. You paint good pictures, and it's easier to direct my thoughts and prayers and good wishes and love to your family. I don't have Bob's email, but I would like for him to know that if he does indeed lose his appetite, I will gladly donate part of mine. (I can also sign up to donate any extra fat he might need, if the chemo does cause weight loss. Should he find himself in need of extra boobage, I'll sign that DONATE LIST, too. A kidney? I'm your girl. I also have an appendix and a uterus, free to good homes. Just lemme know.) I love y'all, and you are all constantly in my thoughts and taking up big square footage in my heart. I'm semi-local. Let me know if you have any ideas whatsoever about how I could provide assistance in any way. Standing by,
    Carla

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  2. LOL. Thanks Carla! I will let him know that you are willing and ready to help.

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