I want to thank everyone who has been thinking and praying for me. God has been providing blessing, but the one I really need is a JOB. I want to ask God and you all to bless the local charities as you can. For with out their help I would not have food, medical care or electric. I seem to have reached a new level in my grieving as I have had a hard time getting out of bed. If it weren't for Joey and his wonderful heart and care I really don't know where I would be today. I am running out of Dog food, Gas, general food for me and the rest of the pets. But God did provide me with free medical care and all my perscription drugs. I also want to ask you all to pry for blessing for Robert Razzi as he feeds us wonderful dinners every Sunday and helps out with gas as he can. Again, Thank you all who helped me financially and I ask you to keep praying for us. God says that where two or more come together in prayer it will be given unto them. I am at a loss as to what will happen to us in the near future. All I can do is continue to pray and believe in God's word. I know he did not bring us up only to lets us drop so far. Joey is not scared for himself, but he is greatly worried about me and the babies. God, pour your blessing out on Joey, too.
Note from Joey: I know the ecomomy sucks right now and that everyone is struggling to make ends meet in thier own life. I am not able to get to my AA meetings due to lack of gas and we have to be very careful about where we go for job interviews, etc. . As it stands, we have one more run, wherever we go, then we will be out of gas.
I dont really like to do this, but I have to ask that if anybody can give any amount, please do. Even buy some dog food for us, I dont care. I can find a way to feed Stephanie. Most of you know, I have been surviving all this time.
Wether you believe it or not, Stephanie and her pets are my main concern!
Stephanie is getting haggled by bill collectors and theres no way to pay the bills. We have done everything we can to get jobs, putting in 3-5 applications a day. We are doing most of this online (Thank God the internet is still on). Please, if you can help in any way financially or donating food for us or the dogs, please give her a call!
(904)-716-3234
I also am being as civil as I can when I say this, but ive noticed that very few people call her or even send emails. I know that we all have our own problems, but arent we supposed to be here for each other as humans, christianity aside. I want to thank the people that have called and have emailed, if youve called or emailed or communicated through another person, scratch yourself off this list.
Where did the rest of you dissapear to? We have called and left messages for people and never got a call back. Just because im here doesnt mean Stephanie doesnt feel alone sometimes.
Ive said my piece, love me or hate me, im honest and I love you all, no matter what.
There, im off my soapbox!
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Ed's Obituary and Memorial Video
I have spoken to many who missed the obit. Here it is along with the memorial video.
In Loving Memory
SIMS, Edwin Lee Sims Jr. of Jacksonville, passed away on July 20, 2008 two days before his 68th birthday. Born on July 22 1940 in Charlotte, NC. He moved to Orange Park in 1974 and began his career using his God given talents in Architecture with The Plan Connection which he ran for 34 years designing homes in North Florida. Edwin was a member of New Life Christian Fellowship for 15 years and recently joined Southpoint Community Church in December 2007 where he found friendship and acceptance with the Thursday Men's Group. Edwin is survived by his loyal wife Stephanie LJ Sims, 3 daughters Stephanie (Lenny) Lind, Heather (Lee) Sims Stine and Tiffany Lee Johnson, a brother Bob (Nancy) Sims, 4 grandchildren Sam Lind, Wallace Stine, Pierce Stine, and Taylor Johnson. Edwin also leaves behind 4 Yorkies Minster, Madison, Isabelle, and Magnolia, Abbey Cat, and Que Tee Bird. Ed loved life, he loved good food and good drink. Moreover, he loved the Lord Jesus with all his heart. Ed passed leaving his life in complete peace. Ed left behind a throng of friends whose life he impacted in ways that can never be repaid. Ed will be remembered for the life he lived, not the death that took him away from us. His life was complete and his destiny was fulfilled. "Disney World will never be the same" Memorial services will be held Wednesday, July 23, 2008 2pm at Southpoint Community Church, 7556 Salisbury Road, Jacksonville
Friday, July 25, 2008
Accountability
Thank you each and everyone who have given to me. I just wanted to give you an account of what I have done so far with the money.
Thank you NLCF for paying the past due on my electric. I paided the balance remaining today.
I paid Verizon Wireless for two months. New bill drops on 8/5
I paid 1 on the two months due on my Kia. tomorrow I will again be two months due.
I paid 1 of the two months due on the GMC. Next Friday I will again be two months due, but as soon as the Death Certificate comes in I will be able to file the credit life policy and if they do not drag their feet the GMC will be paid in full. It they take their time I might have to make one more payment
I posted the change of address for the office today.
Got some piddlepads for the dogs.
I rented a UHaul for the move tomorrow. It will be about $150.00.
Joey says I need to also let everyone know how I am doing. Truthfully, I am avoiding doing the hard things like going through Ed cloths. I would not have been able to ask for help the way Joey did for me. I would not have been able to accomplish these things today if you all had not responded. I am having a hard time being a widow. I hate it. I wanted to be married 25 years at least. I am not in denial, I just hate what has happened and am trying to avoid it as much as possible. I will work through it a little each day. God Bless Joey and everyone who has and who will continue to help me. I really do need you. If I don't call and you think of me then call me.
Thank you NLCF for paying the past due on my electric. I paided the balance remaining today.
I paid Verizon Wireless for two months. New bill drops on 8/5
I paid 1 on the two months due on my Kia. tomorrow I will again be two months due.
I paid 1 of the two months due on the GMC. Next Friday I will again be two months due, but as soon as the Death Certificate comes in I will be able to file the credit life policy and if they do not drag their feet the GMC will be paid in full. It they take their time I might have to make one more payment
I posted the change of address for the office today.
Got some piddlepads for the dogs.
I rented a UHaul for the move tomorrow. It will be about $150.00.
Joey says I need to also let everyone know how I am doing. Truthfully, I am avoiding doing the hard things like going through Ed cloths. I would not have been able to ask for help the way Joey did for me. I would not have been able to accomplish these things today if you all had not responded. I am having a hard time being a widow. I hate it. I wanted to be married 25 years at least. I am not in denial, I just hate what has happened and am trying to avoid it as much as possible. I will work through it a little each day. God Bless Joey and everyone who has and who will continue to help me. I really do need you. If I don't call and you think of me then call me.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
July 23, 3008
Hey everybody!
This is Joey.
Just wanted to let everyone know that Stephanie got home fine.
After the service, Stephanie, Bud & I stopped at 5 Guys to eat.
5 Guys was one of Eds favorite places to eat.
Oh! I almost forgot! Thanx to Bud for paying for our meal.
We laughed and spoke of memories of Ed.
On behalf of Stephanie id like to thank the following people for thier financial contributions:
Brenda Smith
Diane Williamson
Jay Marshall
New Life Christian Fellowship
Janet Hall
The Ranney's
The Alt's
The Pacacha's
The Meisburgs
The Fourakers
Thursday Night Men's Group
Hoyte & Kim
Also, an anonymous person came forward with the money to pay for Ed's Obituary.
The following family members made financial contributions.
Bob Sims (Eds brother)
Stephanies father and all of her aunts.
Thank you all for your prayers and love.
Stephanie is strong. She is not in denial. She is at peace with Eds passing.
She smiles when she thinks of Ed and when she speaks of him there are very few tears.
More often than not, a smile and laughter.
Stephanie wants you all to know that the money she recieved today is helping ease the financial burden and that any future moneys will be appreciated, until she lands a job and can support herself.
The money she recieved today, she is using toward paying off her car and moving the office.
I guess this is the part where I tell you guys that I have been planning a benefit concert to help raise money to help Stephanie.
I will not get any of this money, just to let you know.
The concert will be held at The Pit in Jax Beach.
If you dont like hard rock or heavy metal you can always make a donation to the Ed Sims Memorial Foundation.
We are currently in the process of setting up a bank account.
If you do decide to come to the show, I will make sure you get earplugs if you need them.
Also, personal friends will still have to pay full ticket price, but if you make a extra financial donation, you will recieve an all acess pass.
The Eds Sims Memorial Foundation at first will help meet Stephanies financial needs.
Once that is taken care of and she is stable, the money will go to the Pancreatic cancer foundation and to Hospice.
We are also looking into setting up a funeral fund for low income families.
Anyone who wants a copy of the SlideShow from the memorial service today can recieve one for a financial donation of $5 or more to cover the cost of the DVD and shipping and handling.
This is Joey.
Just wanted to let everyone know that Stephanie got home fine.
After the service, Stephanie, Bud & I stopped at 5 Guys to eat.
5 Guys was one of Eds favorite places to eat.
Oh! I almost forgot! Thanx to Bud for paying for our meal.
We laughed and spoke of memories of Ed.
On behalf of Stephanie id like to thank the following people for thier financial contributions:
Brenda Smith
Diane Williamson
Jay Marshall
New Life Christian Fellowship
Janet Hall
The Ranney's
The Alt's
The Pacacha's
The Meisburgs
The Fourakers
Thursday Night Men's Group
Hoyte & Kim
Also, an anonymous person came forward with the money to pay for Ed's Obituary.
The following family members made financial contributions.
Bob Sims (Eds brother)
Stephanies father and all of her aunts.
Thank you all for your prayers and love.
Stephanie is strong. She is not in denial. She is at peace with Eds passing.
She smiles when she thinks of Ed and when she speaks of him there are very few tears.
More often than not, a smile and laughter.
Stephanie wants you all to know that the money she recieved today is helping ease the financial burden and that any future moneys will be appreciated, until she lands a job and can support herself.
The money she recieved today, she is using toward paying off her car and moving the office.
I guess this is the part where I tell you guys that I have been planning a benefit concert to help raise money to help Stephanie.
I will not get any of this money, just to let you know.
The concert will be held at The Pit in Jax Beach.
If you dont like hard rock or heavy metal you can always make a donation to the Ed Sims Memorial Foundation.
We are currently in the process of setting up a bank account.
If you do decide to come to the show, I will make sure you get earplugs if you need them.
Also, personal friends will still have to pay full ticket price, but if you make a extra financial donation, you will recieve an all acess pass.
The Eds Sims Memorial Foundation at first will help meet Stephanies financial needs.
Once that is taken care of and she is stable, the money will go to the Pancreatic cancer foundation and to Hospice.
We are also looking into setting up a funeral fund for low income families.
Anyone who wants a copy of the SlideShow from the memorial service today can recieve one for a financial donation of $5 or more to cover the cost of the DVD and shipping and handling.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
July 20, 2008 The curtain closes on a wonderful life.
All are welcome to attend the memorial service for my wonderful husband Ed on Wednesday July 23, 2008 at Southpoint Community Church, 7556 Salisbury Road, Jacksonville FL 32256 at 2:00 pm
Unfourtuanetly, I was unable to afford to bury my husband as he wished and have had to opt for cremation. Therefore there will not be a funeral service or grave service. But we will celebrate Ed's life and how he touched each of us.
Note from Joey: Southpoint is coming through with $1000 to help with the cost of cremation. Stephanie still needs $300 more to get the cremation totally taken care of. She needs our help right now. I know we are all having money issues, but honestly, she needs money.
She has a hard time asking for money and quite frankly, we're all aware of the lifestyle that Ed aforded her. I dont think she wants to exactly keep that lifestyle, but she has been crying. She needs money for food & gas and food for the dogs. Today was a very hard day for her as I watched the reality of the situation hit her like a ton of bricks. She is being incredibly strong, but damnit, she needs cash!!! She doesnt even have the $250 to put an obituary in the paper.
You say you want to help her - then help her.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
At 6pm Ed passed away today.
I am an avid writer, but for once in my life, I'm about as close to speechless as I can be.
I was not at Hospice at the time of Ed's passing. The nurses had informed Stephanie that Ed's time was drawing near. She told me that I could go home and take a shower and change. I assume that by the time I got home, Ed had passed.
I have never seen a room so packed with people that love someone. There were at least 10 to 11 people in the room today. We were able to reminisce about the good times and the things Ed did for people. Ed was able to hear all of us praising him and what people really thought about him and how much he is loved. There were some good laughs and a few crys. It was a wonderful Blessing.
Unfourtuanetly, I was unable to afford to bury my husband as he wished and have had to opt for cremation. Therefore there will not be a funeral service or grave service. But we will celebrate Ed's life and how he touched each of us.
Note from Joey: Southpoint is coming through with $1000 to help with the cost of cremation. Stephanie still needs $300 more to get the cremation totally taken care of. She needs our help right now. I know we are all having money issues, but honestly, she needs money.
She has a hard time asking for money and quite frankly, we're all aware of the lifestyle that Ed aforded her. I dont think she wants to exactly keep that lifestyle, but she has been crying. She needs money for food & gas and food for the dogs. Today was a very hard day for her as I watched the reality of the situation hit her like a ton of bricks. She is being incredibly strong, but damnit, she needs cash!!! She doesnt even have the $250 to put an obituary in the paper.
You say you want to help her - then help her.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
At 6pm Ed passed away today.
I am an avid writer, but for once in my life, I'm about as close to speechless as I can be.
I was not at Hospice at the time of Ed's passing. The nurses had informed Stephanie that Ed's time was drawing near. She told me that I could go home and take a shower and change. I assume that by the time I got home, Ed had passed.
I have never seen a room so packed with people that love someone. There were at least 10 to 11 people in the room today. We were able to reminisce about the good times and the things Ed did for people. Ed was able to hear all of us praising him and what people really thought about him and how much he is loved. There were some good laughs and a few crys. It was a wonderful Blessing.
On behalf of Stephanie, I'd like to thank everyone for thier prayers and support.
Like I said, I've never been at a loss for words.... But right now I am...
Here are some pictures of Ed and Stephanie and the good times they shared.
Like I said, I've never been at a loss for words.... But right now I am...
Here are some pictures of Ed and Stephanie and the good times they shared.
March 3, 2005 Baptism together as a married
couple in the Jordan River, Isreal by Bishop Paul Zink.
Married my Love Feb. 01. 2003
Casbah - Belly Dancer 2005
Ed Being Silly
A close relative of Ed's - EPCOT 2002
Us at Biltmore Estate 2007
Chimney Rock 2007
Honeymoon 2003
Peace Love & Happiness
To Cool for Words
65th Birthday Party at JJ Bistro
I could do the MonkeyBars when I was younger.! What happened?
Rest well my Sweet Prince and Rejoice!
July 20th update (This is Joey posting and writing for Stephanie)
Stephanie and I very much know whats going on.
Hospice is a place that prepares you for the dying process.
We know that Eds time is very short and that he may pass away any minute now or maybe in a few days.
Were not sure.
His breathing has become shallow and there is a rattle in the back of his throat.
He has been asleep for almost 24 hours.
He is on a morphine pump to help make him as comfortable as possible.
Thats what Hospice does, they make you as comfortable as possible in the dying process.
I know alot of you have been by and seen Ed, and trust me, Stephanie appreciates every vist, every phone call and every prayer.
She has brought Minster the male dog and he is laying at Eds feet.
Maggie, one of the female dogs is here as well, as of this morning, and she is very much about comforting Stephanie.
The people here at Hospice have been wonderful to her and brought her anything she needs.
Please remember Ed the way he was, the lively guy that was quick with a wisecrack, enjoyed good food, drink and loved the Lord Jesus with everything in him.
Ed has forgiven everyone and has seen two of his three daughters. He is at peace....
Remember what Stephanie said, and any preacher will tell you, its not up to us where and when God will heal Ed.
None of us, as much as we love Ed want him to suffer.
Jesus is waiting with open arms for Ed.
Of all the people ive met in my life, I know without a shadow of doubt that Ed is not only going to heaven, but his rewards will be bountiful.
Ed was a giver. He very much enjoyed doing for people.
He would give his last dollar to feed someone, trust me, hes done it.
Pray for Stephanie, be there for her in any way you can.
Be the church.
'Be there for the widows' I believe that was Jesus who said that.
Ill close with this....
Stephanie has a hard time asking for anything.
Give what you can to her.
Be there for her in whatever capacity you are able to.
Hospice is a place that prepares you for the dying process.
We know that Eds time is very short and that he may pass away any minute now or maybe in a few days.
Were not sure.
His breathing has become shallow and there is a rattle in the back of his throat.
He has been asleep for almost 24 hours.
He is on a morphine pump to help make him as comfortable as possible.
Thats what Hospice does, they make you as comfortable as possible in the dying process.
I know alot of you have been by and seen Ed, and trust me, Stephanie appreciates every vist, every phone call and every prayer.
She has brought Minster the male dog and he is laying at Eds feet.
Maggie, one of the female dogs is here as well, as of this morning, and she is very much about comforting Stephanie.
The people here at Hospice have been wonderful to her and brought her anything she needs.
Please remember Ed the way he was, the lively guy that was quick with a wisecrack, enjoyed good food, drink and loved the Lord Jesus with everything in him.
Ed has forgiven everyone and has seen two of his three daughters. He is at peace....
Remember what Stephanie said, and any preacher will tell you, its not up to us where and when God will heal Ed.
None of us, as much as we love Ed want him to suffer.
Jesus is waiting with open arms for Ed.
Of all the people ive met in my life, I know without a shadow of doubt that Ed is not only going to heaven, but his rewards will be bountiful.
Ed was a giver. He very much enjoyed doing for people.
He would give his last dollar to feed someone, trust me, hes done it.
Pray for Stephanie, be there for her in any way you can.
Be the church.
'Be there for the widows' I believe that was Jesus who said that.
Ill close with this....
Stephanie has a hard time asking for anything.
Give what you can to her.
Be there for her in whatever capacity you are able to.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Ed's Health Update Part 3
July 17 Update
Well this update is very hard for me. Ed is going to Hospice tomorrow. Today around 3:30 in the afternoon he had a stroke. His right side is mostly paralyzed. His face has drooped and he is having difficulty communicating. He is aware of people and knows who they are. He understands what is said to him. He has something to say, but I can’t understand what it is yet. I have been trying to get him to sleep, but he wakes about every hour or so. Please continue to pray for peace. This is a very hard update to write and I am not thinking very clearly tonight. I will be at the hospital all night and have a friend staying here with me. Thank you all for everything. God bless you all.
July 18 Update
Ed finally made it out of Baptist South after 24 days. He is now at Community Hospice - Hadlow Center on Sunbeam Road. He is in room 209. The stroke that he had back in June finally manifested symptoms. I am told that this is not unusual. He has no movement on the right side. He is unable to speak. He seems to kind-of-know what is going on or at least knows when people are here and when they leave. Speaking of, God has answered another pray. Two of Ed's daughters came by the hospital to visit with him today. Thank you God and all who have interceded on this. Your prayers were heard and answered. To be frank, Ed's body is in the process of shutting down. I don't know how long he has but it is not much. If you would like to come by and visit with him, now is the time to do it. I am still having problems on the financial front, but God has given me some angels who brings me small amounts of money just in time. Thank you Jesus. Pray that I can find an attorney in Arkansas who will work first and get paid later. I could still use help getting the office moved. Doug Jones is heading this up for me. Let me know if you can help and I will give him your phone number. I will be staying at Hospice tonight to make sure Ed gets settled in. OH Yeah! Minster our male Yorkie is up here visiting with Ed and anyone else who comes by. Ed knows he is here and even petted him for a few minutes. Minster has been sleeping at the foot of the bed. I am so glad I can bring the puppies up here. Well it is getting late and its hard to think anymore. God bless and prosper everyone.
Well this update is very hard for me. Ed is going to Hospice tomorrow. Today around 3:30 in the afternoon he had a stroke. His right side is mostly paralyzed. His face has drooped and he is having difficulty communicating. He is aware of people and knows who they are. He understands what is said to him. He has something to say, but I can’t understand what it is yet. I have been trying to get him to sleep, but he wakes about every hour or so. Please continue to pray for peace. This is a very hard update to write and I am not thinking very clearly tonight. I will be at the hospital all night and have a friend staying here with me. Thank you all for everything. God bless you all.
July 18 Update
Ed finally made it out of Baptist South after 24 days. He is now at Community Hospice - Hadlow Center on Sunbeam Road. He is in room 209. The stroke that he had back in June finally manifested symptoms. I am told that this is not unusual. He has no movement on the right side. He is unable to speak. He seems to kind-of-know what is going on or at least knows when people are here and when they leave. Speaking of, God has answered another pray. Two of Ed's daughters came by the hospital to visit with him today. Thank you God and all who have interceded on this. Your prayers were heard and answered. To be frank, Ed's body is in the process of shutting down. I don't know how long he has but it is not much. If you would like to come by and visit with him, now is the time to do it. I am still having problems on the financial front, but God has given me some angels who brings me small amounts of money just in time. Thank you Jesus. Pray that I can find an attorney in Arkansas who will work first and get paid later. I could still use help getting the office moved. Doug Jones is heading this up for me. Let me know if you can help and I will give him your phone number. I will be staying at Hospice tonight to make sure Ed gets settled in. OH Yeah! Minster our male Yorkie is up here visiting with Ed and anyone else who comes by. Ed knows he is here and even petted him for a few minutes. Minster has been sleeping at the foot of the bed. I am so glad I can bring the puppies up here. Well it is getting late and its hard to think anymore. God bless and prosper everyone.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Ed's Health Update - Part 2
Part one was getting a bit long, so I started a new one.
July 5, Update
We have had a few days of just resting. We had a great view of the fireworks last night from our 4th floor room. Ed went for a walk about and went down to the Resource Library and sat for a while. Dr. Grochmal came by and has put Ed on a lung exerciser. Of course he hates it, mostly because it wears him out and he doesn't see any progress. It's only been one day. He hates to do anything that takes any effort on his part. He is so spoiled. When I left at 9:30 tonight he was still watching the NASCAR race. I don't think he will make it to the end.
Please add this to your prayers. Ed would really like to reconcile with his daughters. Please pray that they will have a softening of their hearts and reach out to their father.
Unless God takes thing into his hands, and I pray all day for Ed's healing, there really isn't a positive outlook. Dr. Grochmal told us that he believes Ed to be in Stage 4 since it has spread to his liver. I know that the Oncologist believe that they can treat him, but they haven't given us any idea what to expect or how long Ed my have. I know our God, and His Son, Jesus, can heal my husband. Please all pray this. Come by often and lay healing hands on him. I want my husband to live a long happy life.
Thank you God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit for lifting my husband up into your arms and healing him. Thank you for giving him your strength Father God. Thank you Jesus for your blood that was spilt for his healing. Holy Spirit, Thank you for lifting us both up and bring your love into each of us. Aman, Aman, and Aman,
July 8, Update
Well the last couple of days have been very long. Last night they decided that Ed needed an ultrasound of his legs. That came back with him having some clots in both legs. They needed to put him back on the heparin blood thinner. It took two hours 4 RNs and finally an Anaesthesiologist, who came by to get Ed to sign a form, to get the IV in. My poor husband was stuck so many times and he is hypersensitive and every stick hurt, his arms are black and blue.
Then they scheduled the Portacath insertion for 6:30 am. So since it was after midnight I stayed at the hospital. Needless to say Ed didn't sleep much, so I didn't sleep much. The insertion went well and after 48 hours they will be able to use it to draw blood and inject IV and drugs into it.
Dr. Grochmal came by this afternoon and decided that because of the way Ed zones out and becomes despondent sometimes he wanted to make sure there wasn't anything going on there. So he scheduled a MRI of the head. He is thinking that Ed is just hypersensitive to the zofran - the nausea med, and or the Lortab - the pain med. He also wants to do a bone scan of Ed's legs just to make sure. They are supposed to be done tonight or early in the morning.
We are praying that there will be nothing new on these scans. Hopefully, Ed will get to come home tomorrow.
On the miracle front: An old friend of Ed's gave me $100.00 I used it to put meat in our freezer. I met with the Attorney, so keep praying for this to go smoothly and quickly. The meds that were going to cost us $1000.00 copay a month were approved at $15.00 a month for a year. Praise GOD! and the Xango juice, that is God made, and the powerful Xanthones that naturally fight cancer, we have had 10 cases donated to us so that Ed can go on the 21 day, 1 bottle a day program to help him fight this illness. Thank you to all who have donated and for those of you who would like to know more about Xango check our my other blog under the June archive. Ed's Dr. said he could drink as much of it as he wanted.
Oh yeah, We put the condo up for sale. With the housing market we are hoping to break even. The realtor is a long time friend of Ed's he is looking for a small place for us in Duval with a yard. The stairs at the condo are just not good for Ed. Once Ed is home I could use some help to move stuff in and out of rooms so I can get some really go photos for the Realtor. I also need to paint some, and box up stuff. They said that the carpet being pulled up was a positive since it will allow the buyer to put down what ever they want. So we could also use prayer that this will go smoothly and that we can find just the right place to rent where we can keep all our beloved babies, (Abby, Minster, Madison, Maggie, and Isabelle)
Well that is about all that my tired brain can remember. God Bless each and everyone of you.
July 9, Update
Well, I wish I had good news. Boy! do I wish I had good news. The MRI of the brain showed that Ed had a couple of old strokes and at lest 1 recent stroke (with in the past 2 weeks). Ed could not complete the scan. He said that the noise really bothered him, so he had it stopped. The Neurologists said that it was a good thing that Ed was on the Blood thinners. They said that he needs to concentrate on getting strong and fighting through his illnesses. I ask them if these strokes would interfere with him going to the office or if we should close it and let him work from home. They were both pretty adamant that Ed did not need to be going to the office anymore. They feel that he has only about a year left. So tomorrow I will begin the process of closing the office. I will need some help moving things to the storage area. On the positive side, Dr Grochmal said that his cancer is only a few months old. So Ed is still strong and should respond well to treatment which should start next week. We will get the bone scan results tomorrow. God! I am so tired. Please give me strength! I pray in the name of Jesus Christ that my husband will be miraculously healed tonight! Thank you father. Aman
July 11 Update
Well finally some Good News! The bone scan came back normal! YEAH! Dr. Grochmal said he didn't want to do anymore test. (he was jesting) Hopefully, Ed will get to come home tomorrow or Sunday. Physical Therapy has been working with him and helping build his strength. You know we have those stairs to navigate. We are scheduled to meet with Dr. Marks the oncologist, Monday afternoon and we will get our chemo schedule. Thank you for all your prayers. Keep them up. We have just started the hard part is yet to come, but with your prayers and God Love and Christs healing all will be well. Once Ed is home the Updates will be fewer. I will still send everyone an email whenever I post something new. Thank you all for your support and Love.
My next goal is to get the office packed up and moved out by the end of the month. I could use a lot of boxes and a few people to help me disassemble the office and get it ready to move.
Thanks for all your help.
July 14 Update
Well Pooh! I thought Ed was going to be going to a Short Term Rehab Center today, but it didn't happen. It seems that Ed's bilirubin levels (the stuff that makes you jaundiced) are to high to start Chemo. His were below 2 when he was admitted in June and as of yesterday they were 3.9. They need to be below 3 to start chemo. Dr. Marks ordered a Sonogram of the liver and requested Dr Kohm to do an ERCP (that's the endoscope that goes down the throat) and place a stint in the bile duct if necessary. He believes that the tumor has grown and is pressing on the duct which is causing the biliruben to stay in the body. The bile needs to be excreted because that is how the chemo gets out of the body. Anyway, please pray that Eds pancreas will not become angry when the ERCP is done as this procedure can cause pancreatitis, which is very painfull and can take upto 10 days to settle down. The goal is to get Ed into physical therapy so we can build his strength and get him home. Thank you all for every prayer. Please if you think about it give Ed a call at the hospital- his number is 821-6401. I will be checking out Jacksonville Rehab and Nursing Center on Dune Avenue tomorrow. It's a long way away, but covered by the insurance. I'll let you know how things go.
July 16 Update
Where to begin? It has been a real emotional roller coaster the last two days. Yesterday, before the ERCP, Two men from Ed's Thursday Men's meeting came by. They had a great word for Ed about forgiveness - giving and receiving, repentance, reconciliations, and the healing of hurts given and received. There was great prayer and great release and peace fell upon Ed and us all. Ed went into the procedure with a light heart and filled with the Holy Spirit. After the Procedure we were told that there was no blockage or strictures and no need to place a stint. Praise God! We thanked God and spoke of hope and going home the rest of the day.
By the way Jax Rehab and Nursing Center is 40 min from our home, it is small, older and crowded. We were looking at another facility that is closer to home in riverside.
Well today, Dr. Marks came by and told us that Ed's Kidneys and Liver were not doing well. That we needed to flush the kidneys and see if we could get them to function properly. The biliruben was know up to 4.8 and when it tops 5 things are really bad. He can not have any chemo until the kidneys and liver straighten up. So today he has been on and IV and I have been forcing him to drink. I got a wheelchair and took him on a tour of the hospital. He needed to get out of the room for a while.
Later Dr. Box came by, She is part of his primary group. She said if there was no change for the better tomorrow that we should go home and call HOSPICE. She said that his cancer is being very aggressive and at this time he is not a candidate for surgery or treatment. Remember this has only been going on for 4 months. We have been in the hospital for 22 days and counting. It is not unheard of for this cancer to start and end in under 6 months.
It was suggested that I look up and contact MD Anderson Cancer Center in TX. They do alot of cancer trials and treatments. Basically, Ed has too many issues between the strokes and blood clots in the legs and pulmonary embolism that he is not eligible for any of the trials. They would not be doing anything different than we are doing here. They have a network Dr. at Mayo if we feel that we need a face to face consultation. Ed and I discussed it and decided not to.
Ed and I have had a great touching heartfelt talk today about his dying. Neither one of us is ready to let go, but we both know where he will be going, and who will be waiting for him there. We have come to an understanding an both have a new level of peace. The Holy Spirit has been ministering to both of us today.
Ed is tired. He has been tired for awhile now. He wants to rest and is blessed to be loved by all of you. Thank you all for your prayers and friendship. Please continue to stand by us as 'we walk down this wonderful path to Ed's new life in the Sonshine of Jesus Christ. We relish hearing from each of you and know that you have prayed for us. We haven't given up on miraculous healing, but when you pray for healing you do not get a choice of where God will choose to do the healing. Here on earth or up in Heaven. It is a wonderful thing to know how much you all love Ed and I. Thank you for all you have done and will do in.
May God bless each and every one of you and bring you all the desires of your heart.
July 5, Update
We have had a few days of just resting. We had a great view of the fireworks last night from our 4th floor room. Ed went for a walk about and went down to the Resource Library and sat for a while. Dr. Grochmal came by and has put Ed on a lung exerciser. Of course he hates it, mostly because it wears him out and he doesn't see any progress. It's only been one day. He hates to do anything that takes any effort on his part. He is so spoiled. When I left at 9:30 tonight he was still watching the NASCAR race. I don't think he will make it to the end.
Please add this to your prayers. Ed would really like to reconcile with his daughters. Please pray that they will have a softening of their hearts and reach out to their father.
Unless God takes thing into his hands, and I pray all day for Ed's healing, there really isn't a positive outlook. Dr. Grochmal told us that he believes Ed to be in Stage 4 since it has spread to his liver. I know that the Oncologist believe that they can treat him, but they haven't given us any idea what to expect or how long Ed my have. I know our God, and His Son, Jesus, can heal my husband. Please all pray this. Come by often and lay healing hands on him. I want my husband to live a long happy life.
Thank you God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit for lifting my husband up into your arms and healing him. Thank you for giving him your strength Father God. Thank you Jesus for your blood that was spilt for his healing. Holy Spirit, Thank you for lifting us both up and bring your love into each of us. Aman, Aman, and Aman,
July 8, Update
Well the last couple of days have been very long. Last night they decided that Ed needed an ultrasound of his legs. That came back with him having some clots in both legs. They needed to put him back on the heparin blood thinner. It took two hours 4 RNs and finally an Anaesthesiologist, who came by to get Ed to sign a form, to get the IV in. My poor husband was stuck so many times and he is hypersensitive and every stick hurt, his arms are black and blue.
Then they scheduled the Portacath insertion for 6:30 am. So since it was after midnight I stayed at the hospital. Needless to say Ed didn't sleep much, so I didn't sleep much. The insertion went well and after 48 hours they will be able to use it to draw blood and inject IV and drugs into it.
Dr. Grochmal came by this afternoon and decided that because of the way Ed zones out and becomes despondent sometimes he wanted to make sure there wasn't anything going on there. So he scheduled a MRI of the head. He is thinking that Ed is just hypersensitive to the zofran - the nausea med, and or the Lortab - the pain med. He also wants to do a bone scan of Ed's legs just to make sure. They are supposed to be done tonight or early in the morning.
We are praying that there will be nothing new on these scans. Hopefully, Ed will get to come home tomorrow.
On the miracle front: An old friend of Ed's gave me $100.00 I used it to put meat in our freezer. I met with the Attorney, so keep praying for this to go smoothly and quickly. The meds that were going to cost us $1000.00 copay a month were approved at $15.00 a month for a year. Praise GOD! and the Xango juice, that is God made, and the powerful Xanthones that naturally fight cancer, we have had 10 cases donated to us so that Ed can go on the 21 day, 1 bottle a day program to help him fight this illness. Thank you to all who have donated and for those of you who would like to know more about Xango check our my other blog under the June archive. Ed's Dr. said he could drink as much of it as he wanted.
Oh yeah, We put the condo up for sale. With the housing market we are hoping to break even. The realtor is a long time friend of Ed's he is looking for a small place for us in Duval with a yard. The stairs at the condo are just not good for Ed. Once Ed is home I could use some help to move stuff in and out of rooms so I can get some really go photos for the Realtor. I also need to paint some, and box up stuff. They said that the carpet being pulled up was a positive since it will allow the buyer to put down what ever they want. So we could also use prayer that this will go smoothly and that we can find just the right place to rent where we can keep all our beloved babies, (Abby, Minster, Madison, Maggie, and Isabelle)
Well that is about all that my tired brain can remember. God Bless each and everyone of you.
July 9, Update
Well, I wish I had good news. Boy! do I wish I had good news. The MRI of the brain showed that Ed had a couple of old strokes and at lest 1 recent stroke (with in the past 2 weeks). Ed could not complete the scan. He said that the noise really bothered him, so he had it stopped. The Neurologists said that it was a good thing that Ed was on the Blood thinners. They said that he needs to concentrate on getting strong and fighting through his illnesses. I ask them if these strokes would interfere with him going to the office or if we should close it and let him work from home. They were both pretty adamant that Ed did not need to be going to the office anymore. They feel that he has only about a year left. So tomorrow I will begin the process of closing the office. I will need some help moving things to the storage area. On the positive side, Dr Grochmal said that his cancer is only a few months old. So Ed is still strong and should respond well to treatment which should start next week. We will get the bone scan results tomorrow. God! I am so tired. Please give me strength! I pray in the name of Jesus Christ that my husband will be miraculously healed tonight! Thank you father. Aman
July 11 Update
Well finally some Good News! The bone scan came back normal! YEAH! Dr. Grochmal said he didn't want to do anymore test. (he was jesting) Hopefully, Ed will get to come home tomorrow or Sunday. Physical Therapy has been working with him and helping build his strength. You know we have those stairs to navigate. We are scheduled to meet with Dr. Marks the oncologist, Monday afternoon and we will get our chemo schedule. Thank you for all your prayers. Keep them up. We have just started the hard part is yet to come, but with your prayers and God Love and Christs healing all will be well. Once Ed is home the Updates will be fewer. I will still send everyone an email whenever I post something new. Thank you all for your support and Love.
My next goal is to get the office packed up and moved out by the end of the month. I could use a lot of boxes and a few people to help me disassemble the office and get it ready to move.
Thanks for all your help.
July 14 Update
Well Pooh! I thought Ed was going to be going to a Short Term Rehab Center today, but it didn't happen. It seems that Ed's bilirubin levels (the stuff that makes you jaundiced) are to high to start Chemo. His were below 2 when he was admitted in June and as of yesterday they were 3.9. They need to be below 3 to start chemo. Dr. Marks ordered a Sonogram of the liver and requested Dr Kohm to do an ERCP (that's the endoscope that goes down the throat) and place a stint in the bile duct if necessary. He believes that the tumor has grown and is pressing on the duct which is causing the biliruben to stay in the body. The bile needs to be excreted because that is how the chemo gets out of the body. Anyway, please pray that Eds pancreas will not become angry when the ERCP is done as this procedure can cause pancreatitis, which is very painfull and can take upto 10 days to settle down. The goal is to get Ed into physical therapy so we can build his strength and get him home. Thank you all for every prayer. Please if you think about it give Ed a call at the hospital- his number is 821-6401. I will be checking out Jacksonville Rehab and Nursing Center on Dune Avenue tomorrow. It's a long way away, but covered by the insurance. I'll let you know how things go.
July 16 Update
Where to begin? It has been a real emotional roller coaster the last two days. Yesterday, before the ERCP, Two men from Ed's Thursday Men's meeting came by. They had a great word for Ed about forgiveness - giving and receiving, repentance, reconciliations, and the healing of hurts given and received. There was great prayer and great release and peace fell upon Ed and us all. Ed went into the procedure with a light heart and filled with the Holy Spirit. After the Procedure we were told that there was no blockage or strictures and no need to place a stint. Praise God! We thanked God and spoke of hope and going home the rest of the day.
By the way Jax Rehab and Nursing Center is 40 min from our home, it is small, older and crowded. We were looking at another facility that is closer to home in riverside.
Well today, Dr. Marks came by and told us that Ed's Kidneys and Liver were not doing well. That we needed to flush the kidneys and see if we could get them to function properly. The biliruben was know up to 4.8 and when it tops 5 things are really bad. He can not have any chemo until the kidneys and liver straighten up. So today he has been on and IV and I have been forcing him to drink. I got a wheelchair and took him on a tour of the hospital. He needed to get out of the room for a while.
Later Dr. Box came by, She is part of his primary group. She said if there was no change for the better tomorrow that we should go home and call HOSPICE. She said that his cancer is being very aggressive and at this time he is not a candidate for surgery or treatment. Remember this has only been going on for 4 months. We have been in the hospital for 22 days and counting. It is not unheard of for this cancer to start and end in under 6 months.
It was suggested that I look up and contact MD Anderson Cancer Center in TX. They do alot of cancer trials and treatments. Basically, Ed has too many issues between the strokes and blood clots in the legs and pulmonary embolism that he is not eligible for any of the trials. They would not be doing anything different than we are doing here. They have a network Dr. at Mayo if we feel that we need a face to face consultation. Ed and I discussed it and decided not to.
Ed and I have had a great touching heartfelt talk today about his dying. Neither one of us is ready to let go, but we both know where he will be going, and who will be waiting for him there. We have come to an understanding an both have a new level of peace. The Holy Spirit has been ministering to both of us today.
Ed is tired. He has been tired for awhile now. He wants to rest and is blessed to be loved by all of you. Thank you all for your prayers and friendship. Please continue to stand by us as 'we walk down this wonderful path to Ed's new life in the Sonshine of Jesus Christ. We relish hearing from each of you and know that you have prayed for us. We haven't given up on miraculous healing, but when you pray for healing you do not get a choice of where God will choose to do the healing. Here on earth or up in Heaven. It is a wonderful thing to know how much you all love Ed and I. Thank you for all you have done and will do in.
May God bless each and every one of you and bring you all the desires of your heart.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Ed's Health Update - Part 1
Here is the story.
Ed has been ill for about 2 months. It started with shortness of breath. He felt it was just because he was out of shape and a bit over weight. It got worse and I finally got him to go to the Dr. six week ago. Dr. Grochmal was at first very concerned that it might be his heart, So over the next two weeks he had Ed get a nuclear stress test and then an echo cardiogram. The results of these was that his heart muscle has thickened due to the years of untreated high blood pressure and there were no blockages. This just means that the chambers of his heart are smaller than normal because the walls are thick. This should not cause his shortness of breath. Well they also did three blood test in two weeks and there was some abnormal liver function results. Dr. Grochmal wanted Ed to get two MRI test. (abdominal and pelvic). Well Ed's Medicare for inpatient care was effective Jan. 08 but his out patient benefits do not go into effect until July 1,08. After paying over $2000. for these first test we did not have the funds for the MRI and the imaging center would not work with us so we scheduled the test for July 2. for two weeks there was no change in Ed, but this past weekend he got worse. Monday the 23, he consented to go back to the Dr. They did a second chest x-ray and noticed some spots and want to do a chest MRI. We told them where we stood with the insurance and our lack of funds. They were able to get Precision Imaging to do all three MRI for Ed at NO CHARGE. Praise God!!!
They had the results to the Dr. by 7pm Monday night and Ed was at the Dr's office by 9am Tuesday and admitted to the hospital and in his room by 10am. So here is what we know so far. The Chest MRI revealed many blood clots. This is what is causing the shortness of breath. This is what they are treating now with blood thinners. The abdominal MRI showed that he has a tumor on his pancreas and spots on his liver. They are going to do a biopsy of the liver tomorrow June 26. around 10am. Dr. Kohm said that this would tell us what kind of cancer he has or not. The don't expect to have the results until Monday. As far as how Ed is feeling. He gets nauseous after he eats. The Dr. said that was consistent with the tumor. So he is getting some meds for that . He is having some pain between his shoulder blades and the center of his chest so the Dr. has given him a light pain pill. He is also getting his blood pressure meds and a sleeping pill. So he is resting well at night. He is a little depressed, but who wouldn't be. After 24 hrs of thinners he does appear to be breathing better. He has had some powerful prayer prayed for him the last two days. And I believe that God will continue with the blessings. I believe that tomorrow they will not be able to find any spots to biopsy. I know that Jesus' blood was shed for our healing. I believe in 3 John 1:2 "Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. So, I ask that you each pray for us each day and anytime that you think of us. And I thank you all for your love and prayers.
June 26, Update
Ed had a pretty good day. Less coughing. His biopsy went well. It was done with a long needle. They do not expect to have the results until Monday though. Dr. Stepp came by and told us that even without the results they were sure it was pancreatic cancer. They just needed to confirm the exact strain. Because of the blood clots in his lungs he is not a candidate for surgery. but that can be revisited in 3 to 4 months when his lungs have healed and strengthened. He can still get radiation and chemo. That will be discussed with the Oncologist later. The Dr. stated that he would have 6 months at least and that we should get our things in order. We have been praying that our Mighty God will give him healing that can be documented and will be used to bring others to Christ. Please pray for our finances and for strength and peace for me as well.
Thanks again for all your prayers.
June 27 Update.
Dr. Stepp came by while I was at the Dr.'s. He told Ed that he'd had over 20 cases like Ed and that none of them lived over a year. Well as you can guess that really upset and depressed Ed. They still do not have a definitive diagnosis yet. Well this evening his Oncologist Dr. Bubis came by. He is going to be following Ed with his blood thinners and the cancer treatment. HE said that he did not see anything that could not be treated. He told Ed that he had to fight and stay positive and he would do everything to fight with us. He was a great encouragement to us and gave us hope. Tomorrow Mr. Ed. has had the end of the easy life. He must get out of bed and do some walking around the halls. He has to get strong enough to get up the stairs if he want to come home. NO more wallowing in the bed.
Again, thank you each for all your prayers. Keep them coming.
Our Love Stephanie and Ed.
June 28 Update
Ed had a good day. He got up and sat in a chair for a little while after breakfast. Then after lunch we got him to walk down the hall to a sitting area. Then he sat in the chair to eat dinner. No new news. Just working on building his strength.
Keep the prayers coming. He is healed in the Name of Jesus. Aman.
July 2 Update
Thank you to all who have called Ed and come by the hospital and visited. Thank you to all who have been praying for us. Sorry for the delay in updates. The hospital blocks blog sites on their network. I have spent a couple nights at the hospital and will be going back up there tonight. Ed has been building up his strength. He walks down the hall and gets out of bed and sits in the chair or couch. He is still not eating as much as he should. He still gets nauseous after eating. The Dr.'s have given him med for this, but he doesn't have an appetite. We will work on this when he gets home. Speaking of home, we thought he was going home today, that hasn't worked out yet. Due to the Pancreatic Cancer he needs to take an injection blood thinner. We found out today that our co-pay (25%) was going to be over $1,000.00 a month just for that one drug. He still has 3 others to buy. The hospital social worker is working on it on her end and I have spent most of the day with the American Cancer Society. They gave me some great resources. The manufacturer is GlaxoSmithKline. I have filed out their application for aid and am writing a letter to go with it as per the customer service rep at GSK. Please pray for favor that they will provide this drug till the end of the year. With Ed so sick we have no income coming in. Our funds are running very low. The insurance has covered the wheelchair, the rolling walker the portable oxygen and the oxygen compressor for the house. The new Oncologist is on our insurance and we will only have a $5.00 co-pay for him. We are still working on the rest. Also pray for my meeting with the attorney next Monday. He is going to help me get the papers signed by Woody and I won't have to pay him until I get my funds. I really need this ASAP. So Ed and I can concentrate on his healing and not on working. Also I have applied for 9 new positions this week. Please pray that one of them will call me for an interview and then hire me. This would really help us. God has been showing us his miracles each day. Praise God! Praise God! Keep up the prayers, visits and phone calls.
Ed has been ill for about 2 months. It started with shortness of breath. He felt it was just because he was out of shape and a bit over weight. It got worse and I finally got him to go to the Dr. six week ago. Dr. Grochmal was at first very concerned that it might be his heart, So over the next two weeks he had Ed get a nuclear stress test and then an echo cardiogram. The results of these was that his heart muscle has thickened due to the years of untreated high blood pressure and there were no blockages. This just means that the chambers of his heart are smaller than normal because the walls are thick. This should not cause his shortness of breath. Well they also did three blood test in two weeks and there was some abnormal liver function results. Dr. Grochmal wanted Ed to get two MRI test. (abdominal and pelvic). Well Ed's Medicare for inpatient care was effective Jan. 08 but his out patient benefits do not go into effect until July 1,08. After paying over $2000. for these first test we did not have the funds for the MRI and the imaging center would not work with us so we scheduled the test for July 2. for two weeks there was no change in Ed, but this past weekend he got worse. Monday the 23, he consented to go back to the Dr. They did a second chest x-ray and noticed some spots and want to do a chest MRI. We told them where we stood with the insurance and our lack of funds. They were able to get Precision Imaging to do all three MRI for Ed at NO CHARGE. Praise God!!!
They had the results to the Dr. by 7pm Monday night and Ed was at the Dr's office by 9am Tuesday and admitted to the hospital and in his room by 10am. So here is what we know so far. The Chest MRI revealed many blood clots. This is what is causing the shortness of breath. This is what they are treating now with blood thinners. The abdominal MRI showed that he has a tumor on his pancreas and spots on his liver. They are going to do a biopsy of the liver tomorrow June 26. around 10am. Dr. Kohm said that this would tell us what kind of cancer he has or not. The don't expect to have the results until Monday. As far as how Ed is feeling. He gets nauseous after he eats. The Dr. said that was consistent with the tumor. So he is getting some meds for that . He is having some pain between his shoulder blades and the center of his chest so the Dr. has given him a light pain pill. He is also getting his blood pressure meds and a sleeping pill. So he is resting well at night. He is a little depressed, but who wouldn't be. After 24 hrs of thinners he does appear to be breathing better. He has had some powerful prayer prayed for him the last two days. And I believe that God will continue with the blessings. I believe that tomorrow they will not be able to find any spots to biopsy. I know that Jesus' blood was shed for our healing. I believe in 3 John 1:2 "Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. So, I ask that you each pray for us each day and anytime that you think of us. And I thank you all for your love and prayers.
June 26, Update
Ed had a pretty good day. Less coughing. His biopsy went well. It was done with a long needle. They do not expect to have the results until Monday though. Dr. Stepp came by and told us that even without the results they were sure it was pancreatic cancer. They just needed to confirm the exact strain. Because of the blood clots in his lungs he is not a candidate for surgery. but that can be revisited in 3 to 4 months when his lungs have healed and strengthened. He can still get radiation and chemo. That will be discussed with the Oncologist later. The Dr. stated that he would have 6 months at least and that we should get our things in order. We have been praying that our Mighty God will give him healing that can be documented and will be used to bring others to Christ. Please pray for our finances and for strength and peace for me as well.
Thanks again for all your prayers.
June 27 Update.
Dr. Stepp came by while I was at the Dr.'s. He told Ed that he'd had over 20 cases like Ed and that none of them lived over a year. Well as you can guess that really upset and depressed Ed. They still do not have a definitive diagnosis yet. Well this evening his Oncologist Dr. Bubis came by. He is going to be following Ed with his blood thinners and the cancer treatment. HE said that he did not see anything that could not be treated. He told Ed that he had to fight and stay positive and he would do everything to fight with us. He was a great encouragement to us and gave us hope. Tomorrow Mr. Ed. has had the end of the easy life. He must get out of bed and do some walking around the halls. He has to get strong enough to get up the stairs if he want to come home. NO more wallowing in the bed.
Again, thank you each for all your prayers. Keep them coming.
Our Love Stephanie and Ed.
June 28 Update
Ed had a good day. He got up and sat in a chair for a little while after breakfast. Then after lunch we got him to walk down the hall to a sitting area. Then he sat in the chair to eat dinner. No new news. Just working on building his strength.
Keep the prayers coming. He is healed in the Name of Jesus. Aman.
July 2 Update
Thank you to all who have called Ed and come by the hospital and visited. Thank you to all who have been praying for us. Sorry for the delay in updates. The hospital blocks blog sites on their network. I have spent a couple nights at the hospital and will be going back up there tonight. Ed has been building up his strength. He walks down the hall and gets out of bed and sits in the chair or couch. He is still not eating as much as he should. He still gets nauseous after eating. The Dr.'s have given him med for this, but he doesn't have an appetite. We will work on this when he gets home. Speaking of home, we thought he was going home today, that hasn't worked out yet. Due to the Pancreatic Cancer he needs to take an injection blood thinner. We found out today that our co-pay (25%) was going to be over $1,000.00 a month just for that one drug. He still has 3 others to buy. The hospital social worker is working on it on her end and I have spent most of the day with the American Cancer Society. They gave me some great resources. The manufacturer is GlaxoSmithKline. I have filed out their application for aid and am writing a letter to go with it as per the customer service rep at GSK. Please pray for favor that they will provide this drug till the end of the year. With Ed so sick we have no income coming in. Our funds are running very low. The insurance has covered the wheelchair, the rolling walker the portable oxygen and the oxygen compressor for the house. The new Oncologist is on our insurance and we will only have a $5.00 co-pay for him. We are still working on the rest. Also pray for my meeting with the attorney next Monday. He is going to help me get the papers signed by Woody and I won't have to pay him until I get my funds. I really need this ASAP. So Ed and I can concentrate on his healing and not on working. Also I have applied for 9 new positions this week. Please pray that one of them will call me for an interview and then hire me. This would really help us. God has been showing us his miracles each day. Praise God! Praise God! Keep up the prayers, visits and phone calls.
July 3, Update.
Praise God! He is glorious! We had two miracles today! First, I have been in need of gas. I have been milking it for as much as I could but was down to needing to add gas. I checked on some lotto slips that were in the glove box and won $59.00 Almost enough for a full tank. Glory to GOD!!! The second came at 5pm today. The social worker at the hospital came by and told us that the Pharmacist was able to get the first months of blood thinners for a $15.00 copay. Thank you Thank you Thank you GOD!!! The rest will come from a mail pharmacy and they will check Monday to see what that copay will be. I have filled out the GSK-Access application an written a letter in hopes that they will consider giving Ed the injections med for free. Keep praying that will come through. Just wanted you all to see the power of your prayer and ask you not to stop. Love you all.
PS I got this from the American Cancer Society. It is a booklet about Pancreatic Cancer. http://documents.cancer.org/116.00/116.00.pdf
Sunday, June 22, 2008
A family full of love!!!!
We are never in short supply of Love!
Madison's First Litter August 2003. Isabelle was firstborn and the largest puppy. Maggy was third born . Now Izzy is 7# and Maggie is 11#. Go figure...
Madison's second litter Feb. 2004. Yes, six months later. Izzy made a great nanny. We got Minster fixed. No more puppies for us! Well at least not until we have a yard of our own.
Dizzy Izzy - Isabelle and Maggie Doodle - Magnolia
Our other family members include:
This is the Twitter Family Baby Spot - Top Left, Mama Bird - Sweetheart Top Right and Spot's Mate: Bluebell in the middle. Periwinkle, Sweethearts mate caught a cold this past winter and passed. We have been looking at new ones but no luck yet. This is Sweethearts and Periwinkle's first clutch. Spot is in there somewhere. They are so tiny and grow so quick.
And last but not least our aqutic family.
Freshwater tank.
Our babies: Minster, Madison, Magnolia, & Isabelle
Our First Snow. Jan 2008, Charlotte North Carolina. It was so much fun!
Madison's First Litter August 2003. Isabelle was firstborn and the largest puppy. Maggy was third born . Now Izzy is 7# and Maggie is 11#. Go figure...
Madison's second litter Feb. 2004. Yes, six months later. Izzy made a great nanny. We got Minster fixed. No more puppies for us! Well at least not until we have a yard of our own.
Magnolia and Abby Cat Best Buddies
Abby always wants to go too. By the wa.y, he weighs 18# Which isn't to bad until he climbs on you chest while you are sleeping and headbuts you. I guess he doesn't like the snoring.
Daddy Dog -Minster and Mama Dog- Madison
Dizzy Izzy - Isabelle and Maggie Doodle - Magnolia
Our other family members include:
Que Tee Bird - Indian Ringneck Parot About 10 years old Ed taught him to speak, He says "Whatch doing?" and "Birdy buddy!" He also squaks loudly when he want a treat. He is a bit spoiled.
Our Black Masked Blue Love Bird and Her buddy the Standard Bourke Parakeet (he is about the size of a cocktiel, but much quieter) share a home since both thier mates passed. They get along great. The lovebird sends the flock out about 7am to eat and calls them back around 6pm. Other than that they are quiet and pretty.
This is the Twitter Family Baby Spot - Top Left, Mama Bird - Sweetheart Top Right and Spot's Mate: Bluebell in the middle. Periwinkle, Sweethearts mate caught a cold this past winter and passed. We have been looking at new ones but no luck yet. This is Sweethearts and Periwinkle's first clutch. Spot is in there somewhere. They are so tiny and grow so quick.
And last but not least our aqutic family.
Freshwater tank.I wish you could see this in person. I looks cloudy because of the mirror behind it. It is really crystal clear and is decorated with martini type glasses with blue stems. There are about 30 tetras in there. All kinds of colors. I love this tank.
Our Saltwater Tank
These two damsils have been aroud awhile.
Our Saltwater Tank
These two damsils have been aroud awhile.
This Maroon Clown is about 4 in long. He has been with us for about 2 weeks. I is no longer afraid of me and is almost eating out of my hand.
This is a Scat. When we got him about a year ago he was only the size of a nickle. He grew to this size (6" long) in 3 months. He is a chicken. I'm afraid he is going to jump himself out of the tank one day.
This is a Scat. When we got him about a year ago he was only the size of a nickle. He grew to this size (6" long) in 3 months. He is a chicken. I'm afraid he is going to jump himself out of the tank one day.
And Last but not least is Mr. Hermit Crab. He is a big boy. The shell he is in is about 4" long. His pincher claws are about 1" inch long. He has been doing a great job cleaning up the tank.
Friday, June 20, 2008
A Morning at the Beach
Me and Madison. We were walking 2 miles every morning. I would take turns with the 4 dogs. Sometimes I would get a real workout by taking two at a time.
It might not look it, but the little lake in front of the sand bar is about 3 feet deep. Madison loves to swim in it.
Madison is determined to get wet!! Just look at her digging in those little feet and pulling as hard as she can. Not bad for a 7lb Yorkie. You should see her chase the Seagulls!
Well she made it. I'm a bit protective so she has to stay close. At least the water is warm.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
DoodleBelle's Designs
Hi y'all,
For those who don't know, I started making jewelry in April 2007 with some birthday money I got. My wonderful husband has really been supporting me in this endeavor. He would like for us to do art/craft shows on the weekends. I will be doing my first show this september. More info on that to come later.
Here is my website were you can check out some of my designs. http://www.doodlebellesdesigns.clearwire.net/ (this site is down while clearwire does some work it should be back up soon) Not everything is there, but you can get a good idea of what I am doing. Let me know what you think.
Xango - Whole Fruit Nutrition - Xanthones
Ed and I have started taking this juice and have found it to be delicious as well as nutritious. Everyone knows how skeptical Ed is about these things, so if he finds it to be a great value, I hope you will also.Our website for more information is: www.myxango.com/thesims
You can buy just one bottle from here and get info about the product and company. If you want to continue to purchase it is best to become a distributor even if you never enroll anyone as the wholesale price per case (4 bottles), is $50.00 less than the retail price.
If you want more info on all the products check out http://www.xango.com/
Our distributor ID# is 11608127
Ed and I take the juice (recomended dose for healthy people is 1 to 3 oz. with meals) and the vitamines. Here is some information about them.
XanGo Mangosteen Juice boasts a proprietary whole–fruit formula, harnessing a concentrated rush of xanthones—a vigorous family of next–generation phytonutrients. Sounds complex, but here’s the straight scoop. Hundreds of 3rd party research shows xanthones possess potent antioxidant properties that may help maintain intestinal health, strengthen the immune system, neutralize free radicals, help support cartilage and joint function, and promote a healthy seasonal respiratory system.
XanGo 3SIXTY5 Whole-food Vitamines
Built around the antioxidant-packed mangosteen and a whole-food blend of 12 fruit and 12 vegetable concentrates, XanGo 3SIXTY5 is a brilliant departure from the isolated nutrition strands of the past. By gathering and purposely matching essential vitamins & minerals with specialized nutrients, XanGo 3SIXTY5 creates a multivitamin balance your body can assimilate easily through intelligent nutrient interplay.
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