The worst part so far!

I have had alot a people ask me to up date my blog, there are days when the computer is the last place I want to be on.
This consolidation period is pure HELL! And I won't even try to sugar coat it for nothing. You have chemotherapy running through your body 24/7. There are days that you fiscally can not get out of bed other than making it to the bathroom. Sometimes I can get to the couch or chair. I have had to let go of the mother in me and become the patient for everyone to take care of. That is not easy, I love my boys and they help me pretty good.
Just some of the things that I deal with are, shaky, even when you walk, not being able to sleep very good, and the fatigue of just getting out of the shower, but the worst part is the nausea.
I had a blessing and in that blessing it reminded me that I need to put my hand in a higher power and trust him with all my heart. Heavenly Father is mindful of me and if I pray and trust in him I will be o.k. My testimony has grown so much in the last 8 months and I know It will continue to grow every day.
I am so thankful for my mom and dad and want them to know how much I love them. Thank you to all of you for the prayers coming my way, they are felt. Maybe more chemo Monday If my counts have recovered from the last one on Monday. Thanks again for all your love and concern. I love you all

Nov. 2, 2010

I can't believe that November is already here. I am already freezing and my boys said that its not even cold yet. Yikes! I started Consolidation 1 and can already tell that its going to take a lot of patience and encouragement through the next 30 weeks. I am coming off of the steroids, which every three weeks I will be back on for a week, and the side affects are not so nice. The body shakes and the aches and pains in all of your bones and joints is not my idea of a fun thing. There are days when I feel so alone, now that I am home the phone hardly rings, the visits have not been as often and I think that is when the depression and despair set in.
I went to the clinic yesterday and all my counts are great, the nurses and Dr. know just how to boost you up so you can keep going. You think that you are feeling crappy and they let you know that you are just sailing through. I have so many blessings to be thankful for and remind myself, no matter how hard it gets, we can have a good cry, pick myself up and move forward. I get frustrated with all that needs to be done to keep me safe and not get sick and I can't do them, I am not good at asking for help, but I need lots of help.! I love my family so much and appreciate all that they do for me. I have the best friends in the world and thank you all for your prayers.

Oct. 22, 2010

What can I say, I am not very good at keeping this blog updated! I have been to the Bear River Valley Hospital for blood, had a great welcome home party, and enjoyed visits from friends and neighbors. My counts are slow in coming up to start the next consolidation period, so I have been feeling pretty good. We hope that the counts are good for Monday. I want to keep this show on the road in the right direction.
I thank family and friends for all their help these last two weeks, I really appreciate everything because it is hard for me to do, and as most of you know, it is hard for me to ask for help.
I am excited for the new arrival of my little niece, Taylee May, it is so nice to have something good to look forward to and how precious they are, as your fighting for your life, heavenly father sends down a new little angel to brighten your day! Congrats James and Maryann, you make cute babies.
I am excited to go and watch my son, Bracken, play football tonight. Last home ball game and region game of the season, then off to the playoffs! Go get um son!!!
I still have a positive attitude, most of the time and the fight will continue!

Oct. 9, 2010

I have been feeling so run down and my energy has been nothing. Yesterday I went and had my labs drawn and sure enough, I need blood. I am going to the hospital today to receive blood and I hope that it will give me a little more energy to make it for Monday. Monday starts the next consolidation period, chemo, steroids, and all that fun stuff. I am so glad to be home to recuperate from these next 30 weeks of lots of chemo. There is no place like home and your own recliner chair! My boys are the greatest and take such good care of me. I am loving being spoiled, if you would call it that.
I still have the best chauffeur around and appreciate all that my family does and will do for me. I am truly blessed!

October 5, 2010

It was so nice to be able to come home to Fielding and try to be a family again, as much as possible. The mother mode in me wanted to kick into action, but the physical part of me said No way. This CNS phase has really kicked my butt, as I have mentioned before and for the first time I saw myself in the mirror as a sick cancer patient and it scared me. I stood there and cried filled with a lot of emotion as to what was going on inside of me. There are days that I feel like I am going crazy, because I just can't concentrate on one thing for more that five min.
I was reminded yesterday at my clinic visit that this is normal. Normal, will it ever be the same as before the cancer, probably not, but we can start getting use to the new normal for awhile.
My dear friend, Brandi Chase, came to spend my "Peg" day with me at the clinic. It is so nice to know someone that has been there and done what you are doing and to give you all the encouragement you need. Plus she knows just how crazy I feel because she has been to that kind of crazy. My emotions are all over the place, but they never were really under control to begin with. Now I have 4 Pegs down, just 11 more to go!
I am so thankful at this time for family and friends! Thanks so much to Chris and Cali Bywater for the make over in the bathroom and giving me one less worry about coming home, plus it looks amazing. Thank you to my Aunt Karen and Linda for cleaning and sanitizing my home for me. You did an amazing job. Thanks to my Sister, Maryann for coming with my Aunt JaDene and making my home feel like fall. And especially thanks to my Dad and Mom for taking care of me to and from the clinic. There are days that I just wish my dad could kiss my cheek and make it all go away, or a great big hug from my mom would do the magic trick, but we are all in this together and will make the best of it.
I have the best family around and know that I am truly blessed. I love each and everyone of you and try to say it more often, because you never know just when another curve ball will be thrown in your direction.

Radiation is Over!

I received this certificate and a Hawaiian Lia for my last day. I even got to ring the bell and shout Hooray!!

Today was my last day of radiation and I was relieved! It has not been the easiest phase of this, but we made it through. These are some of the wonderful ladies that take such great care of me during this process.

They have me all in my mask and ready for the radiation to begin. You cannot move your head at all with this lovely mask on. Talk about get me out of here!

CNS Phase

This week has not been my favorite of weeks, I started my CNS phase and it has been the roughest so far. I started on Monday with labs, radiation, lumbar poke with chemo in the spinal column, and then 3 different chemos in the I.V. and that was just Monday. Everyday I have gone into the hospital for radiation on the head to keep out the cancer cells from going into the brain. Thursday I had another lumbar poke with chemo in the spine called the triple threat. I don't much care for the triple threat, but if it keeps out the cancer from my spinal column, bring it on. The nurses and Dr. at the hospital are wonderful and I am so grateful to each and everyone of them for their great kindness and concern for me.
I have a much bigger testimony of the power of prayer and how it blesses my life. I find myself praying more and know that my father in heaven is there and listening to his daughter trying to comfort me. I sure don't know where I would be without the priesthood and the blessings that come from these brethren. The priesthood is everywhere! What a great feeling!
I am excited to go and watch my son play football tonight at Ben Lomond High School in Ogden. Then spend the weekend in Fielding. I am counting down the days to coming home and staying, and it feels like sometimes time stands still, but I am a fighter and I will be a survivor!

Sept. 20, 2010

Long day at the clinic but we made it through. Everything went good. Very exhausted!

Sept. 6, 2010

I am a slacker!! I have not felt like posting anything new.
On Friday I had the "Peg". I was very nervous for this chemo because alot can go wrong and they lay out all of the medication to help...Once your body has seen this chemo it builds antibodies and the next dose can be bad. Well...everything went good. I had a great visit from a friend, Brandi, and she gave me a star necklace for the first peg. One down and 14 more to go. I sure did not feel like a star after awhile, but have managed to stay up beat and try not to get to discouraged. I missed the great Owen Family Labor Day, but want all of you to know that next yr I will be there and many more memories will be made!
I have enjoyed having Jed with me. He takes good care of me. I know this is not easy for either of us, but we have gotten closer and will make it through. Love you Jed!!
Well the next dose of chemo isn't until the 13th of Sept so will post more then.

Aug 30, 2010

Today has been a full day already and its only 11:30 A.M.! I was taken down to Radiation bright and early this morning for the consultation and the fitting of this lovely helmet that I will get to wear each time that I come in for Radiation. The nurses and staff down there were so good to me and could see how nervous that I was to get then CT scan done, but it all went great!

Now I am receiving my first bag of blood and then number two dose of Etoposide (chemo) It hasn't been bad so far and I pray that it goes just as good today! They gave me a tentative date to come home to Fielding, about Oct.1 and I am looking forward to that date. I will probably get to come home for some visits now and again but still must remain close to the hospital for the next CNS period too. The CNS period consists of lumbar pokes with chemo in the spine, radiation, and more chemotherapy.

I am taking one day at a time and I am grateful for each day, I was a little sad this morning not being there for my boys first day of school, but want them to know that I am doing everything I can to be there next yr and the year after that! I love you boys so much! Hope that you had a great first day of school.

Aug 29, 2010

I have had my last dose of Ara C this morning. I have done well with it, now on to the Etoposide. I am not looking forward to this chemo, but will do my best. I am still able to eat and walk most of the day which is great and feel that my balance is coming back. I have some of the best Dr.'s and nurses around and thank them everyday for their great care. My mom and I have had a great time together, we watched Steel Magnolia's and had a good laugh. It's nice to have a good laugh in this tough situation.

I am grateful to be a member of the church of Jesus Christ of latter day saint and know that I have many blessings from the members and many more. I am thankful for the priesthood and know that that is how I am getting through one day at a time. I love my family so much and appreciate all that they do for me in small and BIG ways.

I thank everyone for their prayers and would ask that you all continue to pray for me. I love you all and may God bless you all with the blessings that you stand in need of at this time. Hugs to all.

Catch-Up Aug. 28, 2010

I first need to apologize for being a slacker on the blog, when I went home to Fielding my computer there had a virus and went to the computer Dr. I don't have wireless at home so my laptop didn't work. So here goes the up date.

I was able to stay at home with my family for a week, and I needed that time with them. It did my spirits good to be able to be their mom and wife again. Plus I enjoyed the visits from great friends and family. I returned to the clinic to try again on Friday. Hip hip hooray, my counts were finally ready for the next round of chemo. Its funny that I was so excited to be healthy enough to get admitted to the hospital! Dr. Julie Ash said that this will be my last hospital stay unless I get a fever or sick. That was great news! Thank you for all the prayers, its nice to know so many people care.

Last night I had a great visitor, My cousin, Uncle Vances, Nancy. We talked for hours and I really enjoyed having her here.

Things are going great so far with the chemo and no complaints as of yet, hope that it will continue that way. Prayers are answered and the priesthood had great power. I have such a great testimony of them both.

A big thank you to my Aunt JaDeen and my son Colten for keeping me up dated on the Bear River game last night. Way to go Bears, and a big shout out to the awesome center for doing a marvelous job, so I hear! You rock Bracken!
A big hug to all.

Aug 20,2010

Well I had my clinic visit on Thursday and my white count is holding me back from the next round of chemo. It has went from a 1.1 to a .8. Darn white count!! Dr. Ash said we would try it again on Monday and to have a great weekend. I was a little bummed until my mother-in-law asked if I could go to a football game. Oh yea, I said, how about 2 football games? She said sure and you don't have to tell me twice to go home to Fielding. So I came home on Thursday night and will be here until Monday morning. Go Bears!! Love to you all

Aug 16, 2010

Well my counts were not quite there yet, so I am back to the house waiting for Thursdays count. If all is good then I will be admitted to the hospital for 5 days.

Family

As many of you know, I got to go home to Fielding and surprise my boys. Bracken plays on the high school football team and the Red and White game was on Friday. He has worked so hard to get the center spot on the varsity team and I am so proud of him for his accomplishments that I wanted to be able to see him play, so of course I was there and thought that he did awesome. I am one proud mom! I won't be able to see his next 3 games so I was glad I could be there for this one. GO BEAR RIVER BEARS!!!

Thank you to my wonderful sister, Maryann, for having somewhere for me to sleep and taking good care of me while I was home..when you don't tell your boys your coming Yikes! I love each one of them so much, and enjoyed being with them for the night.

On Saturday, it was our Richards family reunion and it was great to see so many there. I love all of my extended family and can feel of their love for me. I have such a strong testimony of family and the many things that they can do to bless our lives. I was the recipient of that love by a wonderful blessing from my brother, John, and many of my Uncles and cousins were there to help with it. I felt of their love and know that heavenly father hears our desires and will help us through the rough times if we just ask. I know that I can concur this next round of chemo and have felt a peace within me since that blessing. I am thankful for the priesthood and how it has blessed me through this trial in my life, and will continue to bless me.
Tomorrow I have a clinic visit and if my counts are stable I will be admitted into the hospital for the next round of chemo. I hope to stay on schedule. Thank you all for the prayers on my behalf and I love you all.

Wed. Aug 11, 2010

I am feeling a little more energized today. Its amazing what two pints of blood can do for you. I had a clinic visit again today to see where my counts were, and they were good. The Dr. put me on two new antibiotics because of my white count, it is hanging out at a 1.1 which is very low! I have enjoyed my mom being here with me.

I will be going into the hospital on Monday for the next round of chemo. Love you all!

Monday Aug 9, 2010

I have felt a little sluggish since Sunday and today I found out why, my counts have gone down dramatically. I was not surprised that I would need blood and platelets. My quick visit in the clinic turned into an all day adventure. Maryann and her two kids were troupers and took such great care of me while they were giving me blood. I hope that the blood works and tomorrow I feel a little more chipper. My emotions are all over the place and I have so many fears. I won't be able to start my consolidation C period until they get my counts back up to more normal whatever more normal is. I don't know what normal feels like anymore, but keep getting told that I will return to normal eventually.

Aug. 7, 2010

This has not been a fun week for chemotherapy, but the company I have had has made it a little easier. These girls are the cutest! Sami and Abbi made sure that I was not feeling sick and when I was feeling sick they were right there helping me. How can you not smile with these two cuties.

This is there brother, Trevor, and he was so fun to make smile and hold when he was fussy, it took the nausea feeling away from me for a min. My cousin, Becky was here for the day and was very inspired to make me homemade chicken noodle soup. I have lived on that for two days straight! Thanks Becky and family for keeping me company.

Friday my body didn't like the chemo Aura C and I am glad that was my last dose of that stuff! Now I have a week off chemo so my body can recuperate before the next round on the 16th of August. Maybe I will have a better week, No I will have a much better week!

Today, Saturday, I get to spend the day with my cousin Karen Moyes, and I look forward to having her here and helping me keep my mind off of all this stuff that my body is going through, Some days you just have to have a good cry and get it out of your system and go on with the day.

I am thankful for all of my family members and friends that help me everyday..What would I do without them, I don't even want to think about it. I love you all

Way Behind

I have not been up to getting on the computer and up-dating my blog. I figured that I had better get on the ball, so you all won't worry too much about me. (Just worry a little)

It was a nice weekend for me, Saturday Carla Zundel was here with me and we went to look for some good walking shoes. The muscles in my legs are giving me fits, so a good pair of shoes is a must to keep walking. She took me to the Draper Temple and we drove around the temple. It was beautiful, but what temple is not. We then went and visited with her sister and brother in law in Draper. Connie had fresh baked cookies for us when we got there. (Still my favorite!) I enjoyed the out.

Sunday, my cousin's Mindy and Becky made dinner, with the help of Becky's great husband, Will. It was so great to have them here and enjoy their company.

Everyone keeps me going and helps me so much. My sister-in-law, Shaley came on Monday and we had a great time. Started another week of Ara-C, which is a chemo at home from the Home Health and so far it has been o.k. I have felt a little sick, but not too bad.

I had my check-up too. Dr. Petersen said that all my counts are awesome and I was doing great to keep up the good work. That brightens up your spirits a little. I know that It will all be worth it in the end. I just struggle right now with being so far away from my family and not being able to help them through this too. I love them all. I have the most amazing boys on the planet and love them so much. My mother in law said to me to look at this as a mission, I am on the down hill side of it and the second half always goes faster than the first half. I guess if i look at it that way I will be home in no time.

Thank you for all the prayers and Love that I am feeling. I love you all!

Monday July 26, 2010

I have had a long day, but everything went fine and I am home recovering. Very exhausted.

July 24, 2010

Before it was time to leave to come back to West Jordan, my sisters and I needed to take a picture with all of us in a hat. Maryann wanted my sun hat. I want them to know that I love them so much and appreciate all that they do for me and my family. Some days I think Weston is Maryann's son he spends so much time over there. Love ya Sista's. I had the best day ever and know that I will be able to face the new round of chemo tomorrow because I have such a great family(and friends) supporting me! It helps to know that I also have heavenly father to help me and I know he hears and answers our prayers. Thank you John and James for the wonderful blessing. I am strong and I will make it one day at a time!

One very proud mom with her son! I am so glad that I felt so good to be there for this.

This is Bracken with his Grandma Smith. All of my family and Jed's (minus Shannon's Family) were able to be there for this special occasion.

Today, I was able to go to Fielding and visit my Grandma Richards and Aunt Carol. Then I went to my house and we were able to ordain Bracken to the office of a priest. He asked his Grandpa Owen to give the ordination. I am very proud of him and the fine young man he has become. Bud I love you so much!

Here we are about half way around the lake. It was so beautiful up there!

It has been so hot here in West Jordan that my cousin Mindy took us up to the lake in Big Cottonwood Canyon. She thought that I needed a different path to walk on. It was 20 degrees cooler and I had the best walk! July 23, 2010

My wonderful family, Bracken, Colten, Weston and my sweetheart Jed. At the Clarkston Bowery for the Thompson Reunion.

This is my whole support group, Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins. I love you all so much!

Here are some pictures of the Thompson Family Reunion. Me and my wonderful sister-in-law Jamie and my nephew Jack.

July 21,2010

My dad called today and said that my mom was mad at me. When I asked what did I do this time, he said that I haven't updated my blog and she didn't know what was going on. So this is for them.

I am feeling really good and have had a few great days, I look forward to the great days, because you never know what is next. I have been walking and eating great, playing card games with my sister-in-law Heather, now my mother in law is with me and we are enjoying visiting. I still miss my family alot and look forward to seeing them on Saturday. Love to you all!

J uly 17, 2010

I had the best day! I was like a kid at Christmas, and my dad could not drive fast enough. I went home to Fielding and had the privilege to see the Fielding Fun Day Parade. That was the best parade, and I enjoyed seeing my neighbors and friends in it. My dad took me past my house and boy did it look like heaven.
We headed to Clarkston, Ut for the Thompson Reunion and it was so nice to see my family there. I haven't seen my boys and husband for 2 weeks and I needed that. Almost all of my extended family was there also and I thank all of you for being there so I could visit and see you.

I haven't seen my nephews, Tyler or Jack since I went into the hospital and Tyler came running to give Aunt Neicey a great big hug. I love all my nieces and nephews.

Jed took me back to the house and I had a real hard time wanting to leave to come back to my home away from home, it felt so good to be in my own house. I have all the boys and Jed with me for the night and it is so good to have them here. I love them so much and tell them more now than before all this happened. Don't let one day go by without telling your loved ones how much you love them, because you never know what will be thrown your way! (Pictures to come of this day)

July 16, 2010

I am so excited today! I just got the results from my blood work and the doctors are saying yes to going to see my family tomorrow! I am so homesick for them and Fielding.
I am so glad that my dad could come down and spend two days with me and my mom. I love both of my parents and appreciate all that they do for me and my family. I am so glad to have family close down here as well, as my cousin Mindy is gone for a short vacation, the fridge did not work very good and food was getting too warm. My cousin Becky and her husband Will came to our rescue and all is well now. A big thank you to them! My prayers are being heard and answered and I thank you all for you prayers too. Love to all

July 14, 2010

Well I haven't been feeling like getting on the computer for a few days so I am a little behind. I wanted to share with you how special my Sunday was. I had Brother Adams and Brother Healy come to administer the sacrament and they sang my favorite sacrament hymn, I stand all amazed. Boy could they sing and you could feel the spirit even if I was at home. Brother Healy talked about Patriarchal Blessings and how they are meant to guide us in our lives. Now that makes two people who have talked about that and I think that Heavenly Father wants me to get my Patriarchal Blessing.

Today I had a clinic visit and my mom took me. I was so proud of her for driving on the spaghetti bowl and not having a panic attack. She was very nervous to drive to the hospital. At the clinic they checked all of my blood, liver, kidney, and potassium levels. They are all coming up and going down by themselves and I am hoping that they continue. Took a long nap when we got back and I am feeling great!

July 10,2010

YEA!! They are releasing me from the hospital! Finally that nasty methotrexate is out of my system. They are, however, giving me 2 pints of blood before I can go, but hey the end is in sight. I haven't minded being back in the hospital, but once you have been out it is hard to come back even if it is for a week! I will be back at my cousin Mindy's and would love visitors. (hint, hint)

July 8, 2010

I can say I hate Methotrexate!! I have had a hard time with this chemo and am looking forward to getting out of the hospital. I think that it brought my spirits down a little and then the relief society sisters came and brought them back up. Thank you sister Helga Kemmemulluer! I enjoyed seeing my dad, brother John, sons Bracken and Kody King today. My family brightens my day too. I also want to thank my mother in law for staying with me, she is the best other mother there is and I love her so much. I am trying to keep that smile on my face and a positive attitude. Thanks again for all the prayers. Love to you all.

July 6, 2010

Being in the hospital is no fun, but at least I know it won't be for four weeks, only 4 days maybe 5. I have received the "red" chemo and now I am getting the "mountain dew" chemo. I love how they have a name for the chemo's that's easy to remember. I started the "mountain dew chemo at 10:00a.m. and will get it until 10:00a.m. tomorrow. So far so good. I am feeling good, other than tired.

July 4,2010

Happy 4th of July to everyone! Today has been a great day, my parents and boys came for a visit and we all had a Sunday dinner together for the first time in a long time. It was nice to have them here and enjoy each other even for a little while. Each time I see my boys they seem to be growing up faster than I want them too.
Bracken will be turning 16 on the 7th of July so I went shopping last night and got him his presents early. I had such a hard time just singing Happy Birthday to him. It seems like some times he gets the shuffle under the rug and it breaks my heart to think that I won't be with him on his big birthday! Bracken I am very Proud of the fine young man that you have become and continue to be. I love you very much and hope that you get that drivers license!
I am again thankful for the gospel and the peace that it gives me, knowing that I can be blessed by the priesthood and feel the comfort of the holy ghost with me. Thanks to all who fast and pray in my behalf and I want you all to know how much I love and appreciate you!

July 2, 2010

Today I had lots of tests and more chemo, we arrived at the hospital at 9:00a.m. for the fun to begin. First in Clinic they draw your blood from all three lines of my port and make sure that they are working like they should, change all the tubing and pack them for the next time. Packing them requires them to put in high doses of Heparin, which is a blood clot medicine. Next it was off to Radiology for the Lumbar Poke. Sometimes at the hospital they have student nurses and it always seems I am the lucky on to get the student nurse, so I have a student nurse with me and he observes the lumbar poke, where they go into the spinal column and remove fluid and feel it with high chemo. We need to make sure that the cancer cells stay out of there!. The guys and gals in Radiology are great and I could ask for a better set of hands to do the procedure.
Next you have to lye flat on your back so as to not get a spinal headache, I have experienced on of those and don't ever want another one.
When I got back to my room, the bone marrow biopsy was next and they had invited 4 more student nurses to observe this procedure, nothing like being on display the whole day, figured they were going to give me some good drugs that I wouldn't care who was in the room anyway.
The bone marrow biopsy was long, but they were able to get everything this time that they needed for the study and I am thankful for that.
Now we are just enjoying the 4th of July holiday the best we know how and will be going back into the hospital on the 5th of July for 3-4 days of intense chemo starting the consolidation A arm. Thank you again for all your prayers and fasting in my behave, I have felt the peace and calmness from my heavenly father. Prayer is a powerful tool and lets not every forget to use it!
The church is true. I have a testimony of the power of prayer and priesthood blessings. I don't think that I could make it through this without those things in my life. I am keeping my chin up and going one day at a time. I love you all

Cousin Mindy

I need to take the time and brag just a little about my special cousin, Mindy Larson. I am so thankful for her and her willingness to take me in with my family, and make her home my home for the little while that I need to be close to the L.D.S. Hospital. She is the most giving, kind, generous, loving, compassionate, and understanding cousin I know. She made sure that I had everything I needed and wouldn't take any money for things. She is truly my angel and I don't know how I will every repay her, but I know many blessings will be coming here way! I have enjoyed getting to know a little more about the wonderful cousin that I have through talks and walks around the neighborhood. She has such a big heart and I want her to know that I love her so much. Her sister Becky, has helped us out too, with meals and I have enjoyed talking and getting better acquainted with them both. I love my cousins, one and all.

We had to have a hat party and try on different wigs and hats...We were laughing so hard. Enjoy the pictures!

July 1, 2010

I have been having a great time with my sister, Maryann and my niece, Malaree and nephew, Brendan. When Brendan first walked in and saw me he just stopped and said, "Aunt Neicey got a haircut like mine." That was the first time he has seen me without hair. We now have a new saying too, When we have a crying spell its, "Those damn pedisone pills!" I have enjoyed miss Malee painting my toes and fingernails and making me look pretty.

Maryann took the kids and went swimming in the pool that is here and they had a great time. I am thankful for my sister and all that she does for me here and at home for my boys. Yesterday Weston went to school here in West Jordan and helped in the P.E. department. He had alot of fun meeting new kids and playing with water balloons all day. I also had a special blessing from my dad and my cousin Will Lutz so that Friday I will be ready for all the tests and more chemo. I am thankful for the priesthood and all that it can do for us in time of need. I look forward to the day that my oldest son can help in giving me blessings and know that he will make it. I love all my sons and especially my husband for all that they bless me with and take such good care of me. The hardest part of all of this is being away from them and not being able to do all that I could do for them, but know that with heavenly fathers help we will whip this and be normal again, whatever normal was. Love to all

June 29, 2010

I have had the privilege to have my sister, Shannon and my other mother, Edith come and visit today! I love to see my family and visit with them. I missed seeing the girls Kennedi and Brooklyn, but want to wish them both a Happy Birthday! Aunt Niecey is sending a treat home with Shannon to give to the girls! Thanks also to my Aunt Judy for the lovely sun hat. Now I can go out and walk in the sun shine for a minute. Love you AUNT JUDY!!

June 27, 2010

I am still doing good and trying each day to get a little bit stronger. The chemo really makes you tired and fatigued. I think that is what frustrates me the most is not being able to get right back into the lifestyle that I am use to and know it will be a long road back. Patients, patients, patients. I have enjoyed my first visit to Wal-Mart and was so glad to get out of there, but it sure felt good to be apart of the regular world again. Jed and Weston have been taking great care of me and I love them so much.
Weston has even made a friend down here and spent the whole day with him and his family yesterday. They made the comment that if he was here again on Saturday they were going to give him a yellow shirt and put him on the basketball team. I am thankful for friends of my cousin and there concern for us as well. The gospel is all around us, and for that I am thankful. Not much more to report so until next time, I love you all!

Carla

Geneice sent this picture of her and Carla Zundel. Enjoy!

June 25, 2010

I am so blessed today! I have been thinking alot about family and friends today and would like to express my love to each and everyone of you for the small and large ways that you are helping me and my family out at this very hard time in our lives. Where would we be without family, ALONE! I have the greatest family out there and it extends far and wide. I have been so blessed to have a wonderful cousin who opened her house for me and my whole family to be together, it isn't the same as Fielding, but we are a family together through this. I am very thankful for the wonderful friends that I have that give my family a break and come and take such great care of me and the needs that I have. You are all wonderful people and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

I have had the privilege of having Carla Zundel here with me she also brought my Weston and we have been having a great time, road trips to her old stomping grounds, meeting her sister and getting the most delicious homemade cookies ever! No cops have been called as of yet, Weston said.

Today I go in for more chemo and then if the blood and platelets are good I will be getting a week off with no chemo. I hope to get some of my energy back to enjoy a little more outside time, but know it will be a slow process. Oh how I loved to hear the birds chip outside the door last night and to feel the sun on my arm for just a minute. The things that we take for granted or just seem to get to busy to enjoy. I mostly enjoyed just hugging my son and waking up knowing he was right by me!

Well enough mush, Have a great day! Visitors are always welcome! Love to you all.

Pictures from the Journey

Pictures of Geneice with her favorite people! (Sorry Jed, you were featured yesterday.)

This is Geneice's smiley face Band-Aid. The radiologist gave it to Geneice because she was so good!

We are blogging from LDS Hospital today. I got to come visit Geneice today! I am showing Geneice how to upload her pictures to the blog. Fun times!

June 22, 2010

Just got some great news, Going to get to leave the hospital tomorrow afternoon early evening!! I have both mixed emotions about it, but am ready for the next phase. I will be staying with my cousin, and friends and family are still welcome to come and visit anytime and you know I would love the visits. I love each and everyone of you for the prayers in my behave and hope that you will continue to pray for me as I enter into the next phase of the chemo treatments that they say will be the toughest! Oh Happy Day!!

Bling!

Geneice had some wonderful visitors this last weekend.


Jed, of course! :) (I love this picture, by the way!)


Aunt JaDene and Shaun, Marcie and Tawnie (cousins) all came to visit. They brought Geneice a new hat with lots of "Bling!" I think Geneice looks so cute in it. I know she loved the visits.


Aunt JaDene



Geneice with cousins Shaun and Tawnie.



Marcie fixing it just right! I'm so glad there are smart, fashionable people in our family. I would have no idea how to help Geneice with this! :)

I think your new do is sooo cute Geneice!

June 21,2010

Just a quick up-date..I have been dealing with some wicked headaches so finally asked Dr. Ash about it and what got ordered blew my mind. 500 mg of caffeine in the I.V. Let me tell you what, I have my energy back and have been able to walk and ride the bike today! Hooray. I wish they would have given it to me yesterday so my kids didn't have to see me so sick. They tell me, though, that it is a good thing for your children to see that some days will not be so good for mom and she will need lots of help.
I have some of the best nurses around and appreciate all that they do for me. Thank you for all the prayers and help for my family. I love each and everyone of you!

June 20,2010

I haven't posted for a day or two, so while I have a quite second I will quickly update. The last two days have been hard because of the way I have been feeling. Tired, rundown, and not so myself. Today though, the Dr. said that was a good thing because my body is starting to produce enough platelets and nutrufils(sp) that it is working hard and I am working hard to keep it going that to feel a little like the flu is a good sign. She said in the next couple of days that would go away!

I have had alot of family come and visit and to them I am grateful. My aunt JaBean and her family came and they gave me the cutest hat that had bling on it. Jed makes sure that I have the bling on when we go walking. I love all of my family and know that I could not do this without each and everyone of them behind me. My testimony grows each day and the love that I have for my father in heaven is so much more than I thought possible. I know he hears and answers my prayers. I will continue to have faith and trust in him for the road ahead is not easy, but with him by my side I can do many things.

I am most grateful today for a loving husband, friend, and lover. I want to let him know how much I love and appreciate all he does for me and our family. Happy Fathers Day!
And also to the best dad a little girl could ask for, thank you for all the taxi rides, words of encouragement when I didn't think I could go on, and the way you always make me feel special even when i need a good swift kick in the pants! I love you very much and am proud to call you my dad. Happy fathers Day!

Thanks again for all the prayers on my behave, I know I have felt many from all of you.

June 18, 2010

Just a quick update..Everything went well today. On the way to the lumbar poke my kind driver and I sang primary songs all the way down the long haul to the procedure room. He just got home from a mission about 6 months ago and was so sweet to sing with me. I received the triple dip chemo in the spinal column and the vin cristine through the I.V. I also chose to have a bone marrow biopsy to help in the study that I am on for leukemia. It has been a full day, and I am very tired tonight, but want everyone to know that I am still strong and fighting 100% of the day.
I was also glad to see Jed back with me again, I miss him so much during the week, along with those great boys of mine. Everyone have a great night!

June 17,2010

As most of you already know today has been the hardest for me. It is hard to see the hair falling out and get into everything. I wasn't ready to shave it yesterday, but this morning seeing it all over the place, I knew it was time. I cried through the whole process and when I finally looked in the mirror I just lost it. I am doing a little better tonight with the whole thing.

I received a very special blessing today from the branch presidency here in the hospital. Tomorrow I have alot of tests and chemo again and needed a blessing of comfort and peace, the blessing was the most beautiful thing that I have had and I know everything will be alright and I will be strong and make it through. I have enjoyed family and friends coming to visit today and want everyone to know how much I love and appreciate all that they do for me. Thank you for all your prayers and know I love you all.

New Hair!

Geneice sent this picture this morning. Keep smiling--and I think I speak for everyone--you are still beautiful! We love you Neicey!

June 16,010

Just a quick up date..Everything is going great and still feeling good. Still having a hard time about the hair, but what girl wouldn't for awhile. Had great visitors the last couple of days and appreciate all that my family does for me. My chin is held high and I have found when I keep it there the days seem to go better. I know there will be days when I want to hang it to the ground, but with faith and knowing that my heavenly father is mindful of me I will pick it back up and move forward! Love to you all

Blog roll

Make sure you scroll down for an update from Geneice!

Geneice has been interested in checking blogs of family and friends. I know some of the family blogs, but I know there are more out there. She'd love to know what's happening in your lives.

I am adding blogs to her "blog roll" on the sidebar, so she has quick access to them. If you have a blog and think Geneice may be interested in reading it, please leave a comment and I'll get them added for her. Thanks!
Jamie.

June 15,2010

Just a quick post to update, they found that my port had a bad infection in all three of the lines and are treating me with antibiotic to get rid of it. I am doing much better today and can say I feel more like myself. My hair is starting to fall out and I am having issues but will make it. I had a wonderful lady come from the American Cancer Society and we tried on wigs, hats, and even beanies. We had quite the fashion show. She left me with some wigs and fun hats so look out now for the new me! (Have to find the humour in all of this).
I am looking forward to seeing my little niece, Malaree again today, she has a date with grandpa to the hospital and I am so excited. I love all my nieces and nephews!

Set Backs

Well today has not been the greatest of days, the dr.s all think that it is best if I remain here in the hospital for another 1-2 weeks. They need to get my blood counts up higher before setting me free. I was kinda bummed about it, but feel it is in my own best interest. I have received platlets and two pints of blood today. While receiving the first bag of blood I became very shaky and started with a fever, next came the chills so bad that my body was out of control with the shakes that it hurt every bone in my body. Thank goodness for the great nurses who took such great care of me, because I am not going to lie, I was worrried something was going to go wrong. They got my fever and chills under control and I am now recieving my second bag of blood as I type. My appetite has returned and I hauled in my dinner like there was no tomorrow. I am so greatful for the priesthood and all the blessings that it has given me. My brother was here with me and stayed until all was well and gave me a wonderful blessing of comfort. I know I am being looked out for and thank my heavenly father every day and night for the blessings that I have right now in my life. A wonderful family, husband, boys, and especially friends. Love to you all.

June 12, 2010

Today has not been the easiest of days. Nausea set in at about 2:30 this morning and then the heartburn right behind it. Made for a long night. Had heart problems, high and low blood pressure, and dizziness also. They decided to do a EKG on my heart to see why it was racing like it was and found all to be well. Thank goodness. I have been a little on the tired side, but feeling much better tonight. I am a little bummed about not being able to go to stake conference and hear Brother Jeffery R. Holland talk, what a wonderful day it will be for the Fielding Ut. Stake to have an apostle there.

A big thank you to my cousin, Karen Moyes for coming and giving Jed a little break today, we have a lot of fun talking about the good old days as kids and teenagers. love you Karen!

Hope that tonight is a good one, and remember that I love all of you!

June 11, 2010

Things are still going great. Another prayer of mine has been answered. When I get released from the hospital, I need to be half an hour away from L.D.S. and I was struggling with what we were going to do. Hotel's are so expensive and a KOA well maybe not. I have a sweet cousin that lives in West Valley City and I had a hard time asking, but called and she said "I would be honored to have you stay with me." Mindy, thank you so much, I don't know how I will ever repay you, but I will think of something. One less stress!

I was so excited today to see my sweetheart, Jed, hiding around a corner on my walk. He saw me walking and wanted to surprise me! Boy how I missed him! Too bad the hospital doors do not lock! Ha! Ha!

Second dose of Vin Cristien today and so far doing awesome with it! The Dr. talks like next week I will get to be released from the hospital and go into the outpatient clinic. I am looking forward to it.

I enjoyed having my Aunt Norma Richards come and visit for awhile. I enjoy seeing my family and friends, now if I could keep these emotions under control I would feel better. Thanks again for all of you praying for me, i feel so loved and want you all to know that I love you right back.

Updates

Just had the dr. come and tell me how things were going, he said that I am doing great and if I didn't live 2hrs. away I could possibly go home. That was good and bad news. I will be o.k. He said the white count is still way too low but will continue to get lower with the chemo. Liver has enzymes on it but that is to be expected with the treatment so that made me feel good. I am able to get all of my walks in and stay active which makes me feel so much better. Going to be chillin with my sister, Nancey tonight and I am looking forward to it. Love you all.

June 9, 2010

Today was a good day! I have felt good and my spirits are up a little more. I enjoyed visiting with some great friends, Justin and Jennifer for the afternoon. It keeps your mind sain to visit with family and friends. I have finally began to gain weight and I feel like I eat like a horse. They tell me that is the side effect of the steroids. Hope that I don't gain too much more! I enjoyed having my sister, Maryann stay with me, boy I am loving the sleepovers. Miss my sweetheart and boys, but know they will be coming soon. Love to you all!

June 9, 2010

As I sit here, I have a lot of time to think, worry, and wonder what is next. I still have a lot of fears and uncertainties. I am sure that is not uncommon. I have been really struggling with the thought of loosing my hair and how I will look to my sweetheart, will he still think that I am beautiful, maybe we will be like twins since he shaves his head too. My mind just goes in circles. I enjoyed having Cali Bywater come and have a sleep over, as we call it here in the hospital. We even managed to keep it under control and they didn't have to call security on us. I want her to know that I love and appreciate her friendship more than she will ever know! Last night I could hardly wait to see my little niece, Malaree, and of course my sisters too. When the door opened and she came in all I could do was cry like a baby, she asked her mom why I was crying and I told her I was just missing her pretty smile. She kept me good and entertained. She took me for a walk and was trying to get me to jump the brown lines on the floor, don't try that with a full bladder...oops. I received some very nice packages from the relief society and my dear cousin, Delene Bailey and her family. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I also received a visit from my friend and neighbor, Loriann Stokes who has been through the ugly of cancer and knows what I am going through. I love the visits and it keeps my spirits up. I love my family and all they are doing for me, in-laws and all. I keep thinking about what I am going to do different when I get to go home..Maybe let the dishes pile up in the sink for a day, not vacuum the floor or even pick up after anyone, just be the best mom I can and take the time to throw the football with my sons and go on those dates with my husband and smell the flowers and fresh air more often. Boy how your priorities can change in the blink of an eye! Love to all of you.

Pictures from June 8

Geneice had a few visitors yesterday! Nancey, Maryann, and Maryann's daughter Malaree came to visit. Sisters are priceless, am I right? (So are neices...) Malaree and Geneice have a very special relationship, as you can see in the picture. Big smiles. :)

And here's a picture of Colten with his new hair. We love it!

Geneice had a good day yesterday. Here's hoping for more good days!

une 7,2010

My night could have been better, but I think that I was worried about today's chemo treatment. I felt great this morning and had 2 walks in before noon. I look forward to the walks because the walls get boring in my room. My mom has been staying with me and I enjoy the talks and laughs that we have had..and those of you that know us the tears as well. I received my first dose of PEG, known as Asparaginase, while they administer this chemo you have a wonderful nurse with you the whole time and moniter all your vitals for 2hrs. I am so thankful for the wonderful nurses that I have had here in the hospital. Things went well and they took me off the drug that makes me go to the bathroom every hr. Boy the things that you look forward too!! I might be able to sleep for 3hrs now instead of 1 hr and not do the potty dance getting to the bathroom. The dr. came in and said that I have been responding well and we will keep going forward. I have the pleasure tonight to have my good friend staying with me. I am thankful for all my family and friends and all they prayers. I need to say a big thank you to my driver for the last 5 months, without my dad taking me to all the dr. appointments and blood draws, Jed would not have the vacation to be here with me!! Thanks Dad for all that you have and will continue to do for me and my family. I love you!! Until tomorrow

Continue

I had another round of chemo today, they call this one the "Mountain Dew" chemo. Boy i liked the sound of that one. I have done well with this one too. I have been able to keep all meals down and get in all my walking. I just received a picture from my son, Colten and his friend Justin Moore, they have beaten me to the new hair style and it brought a tear to my eye. I have the best boys on the planet and their friends are like one of my own too. I am feeling a little home sick, but know this too shall pass. Love you all!

Sunday, June 6th, 2010

Just wanted to let everyone know I did great with the second round of chemo yesterday. This morning I was a little nauseated, but with the help of a pill, I was able to eat all my breakfast!! I wanted to let you all know that I have a testimony of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and that no matter where or what our circumstances are the church is all around us. Even in the hospital. I know that with my heavenly fathers help I will win the battle ahead of me and go on to enjoy my like again. I am so thankful for the priesthood and the comfort it gives to me in the time of need. I know my prayers are heard each and every day and night, for this gives me the peace that I need to keep my chin up. My mom and I were able to receive the sacrament here in my room, boy I think that for the first real time I understood what that means to me, and the comfort the sacrament is for me in my life. I never want to be without it. The missionaries gave my mom a very sweet blessing of comfort and for that I am grateful. She is my rock (along with the love of my life, Jed), and don't know what i would do without either one of them! May we all strive to do what is right and true in our life and heavenly father will always be there for us, NO Matter WHAT! Thank you to all those who are fasting in my behave today, I love each and everyone of you!

Visit from her boys

Like Geneice said in the last post, the boys got to come visit today. I can tell from the pictures that it was a very good thing for everyone. I loved these pictures. Weston also took Geneice for a walk. Good medicine!

Updates

Well I am back, It has been a rough few days for me. With the steriod treatments I would get massive headaches that I could not handle very well. At home I could just take a ibuprofen and It would be fine, not in the hospital! Roxy is what you get! As most of you already know, I was able to attend my son's graduation. I didn't make it for the whole thing, but I know he knew I was there and how very proud I was of him! He is such a fine young man..watch out all you females out there, my boy is a good catch!
I had the priviliage of meeting a young women named Brandi Chase, Dr. Ash brought her up to my room for us to get aquainted. We just hugged for a long while with tears in both of our eye's. She is still in the program for A.L.L and knows what I am going through or will be going through. What a breath of fresh air to know you are not the only one in this boat, and together, with our heavenly father's help, we will make it.
Had my first round of chemo yesterday, and i was a tough day., No appetite, fatigue, and nausea had set in, I felt so homesick and was missing my boy's.
Today was a different story, My boys came to see me and that made all the difference in the word. Just to give them a hug and a kiss and let them know how much I love them made me feel great!! So far the second dose of chemo has been great and I am feeling alot better. One day at a time and the battle will be over! Oh more good news today, my dna came back with no signs of the Philidelphia Chromozone. That means forward march! Thanks again for all the love and prayers in my behalf and I want you all to know how much I love each and every one of you! Until next time

First treatment

Geneice had her first chemo treatment yesterday afternoon. I just heard from Nancey--I guess it was a pretty rough night. We are asking for prayers that Geneice can eat something and hopefully get some strength before her next treatment this afternoon around 3.

"I can do all things through Christ who strengtheneth me."
Philippians 4:13

Precautions

Message from Geneice:

Here is a picture of what I have to do to walk out the door of my room.

Also, a little good news: The spinal tap showed no cancer cells in the spinal fluid! YAY! Also, she has asked that if anyone would like to call her to please call her on the hospital phone. If you need that number, get in touch with someone in the family and they will give it to you. Chemotherapy starts tomorrow.

Graduation

Thanks for all the prayers in Geneice's behalf. She was able to attend part of the graduation--I'm sure not as long as she'd have liked, but we were so happy to see her there!

I took a bunch of pictures, so this is probably picture overload, but these are for the proud mama!

Geneice's family with the graduate

Jed's family with the graduate

I loved this picture!

Handing the name card

Colten with a friend--Justin Moore?
(Did I get that right? Someone leave a comment and correct me if I'm wrong!)

With Grandpa Owen--if you've ever had a picture with Grandpa Owen, you know EXACTLY what is happening in this picture!

Grandma and Grandpa Owen

Grandpa Smith

Fan club

When Geneice first came in. So sweet. :)

I don't know if anyone else was touched at all by this, but the words to the song that the Madrigals sang, I thought, were very fitting:

You're not alone
Together we stand
I'll be by your side, you know I'll take your hand
When it gets cold
And it feels like the end
There's no place to go
You know I won't give in
No I won't give in

Keep holding on
'Cause you know we'll make it through, we'll make it through
Just stay strong
'Cause you know I'm here for you, I'm here for you
There's nothing you could say
Nothing you could do
There's no other way when it comes to the truth
So keep holding on
'Cause you know we'll make it through, we'll make it through

So far away
I wish you were here
Before it's too late, this could all disappear
Before the doors close
And it comes to an end
With you by my side I will fight and defend,
I'll fight and defend
Yeah, yeah!

Keep holding on
'Cause you know we'll make it through, we'll make it through
Just stay strong
'Cause you know I'm here for you, I'm here for you
There's nothing you could say
Nothing you could do
There's no other way when it comes to the truth
So keep holding on
'Cause you know we'll make it through, we'll make it through

Hear me when I say, when I say I believe
Nothing's gonna change, nothing's gonna change destiny
Whatever's meant to be will work out perfectly
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah!

I cried clear through it. I'm a bawl baby, I know. I blame it on John--I swear I didn't cry near as much before I married into his family. :)