Monday, May 30, 2011

2011.05.30 Hospice

We have stopped Avastin therapy and are focusing on hospice care. Avastin is something to extend one's condititon. The big question is what quality of life am I extending? Chemotherapy isn't helping anything, My vision and physical coordination keep deteriorating. The left side of my body is almost useless. It is all about comfort care right now. I have been able to keep the pain under control. My faith and the love & support of family, friends, and fellow churchgoers keeeps any depression away. I know that the end of this mortality is not actually the end of my existence.

7 comments:

Heather said...

Russ,

I have no idea if you remember my husband and me, but we met you at Dr. Arenson's office back in September. My husband had just moved from Mayo in Rochester to CNI due to a return of his tumor. You told us about your blog and I have been following it periodically ever since. Unfortunately my husband passed away in April of this year. It was very difficult for me because we were best friends and soul mates. What has helped me immensely is our true belief that life does not end at death, but continues and I have had some signs from Sean that he is truly watching over my kids and me. I also read a book called The Afterlife Experiments and it was about a Harvard educated scientist who went about testing scientifically the notion of the afterlife. It brought me so much comfort and peace to know that he was able to prove, through experiments that there truly is an afterlife. It sounds like you know that already, and you are not worried about that. I'm glad for you and I wish you peace and happiness with your family. Let your wife know that if she ever wants to talk, to please email me (coloradotylers@gmail.com) because I truly know what you all are going through.

Heather

Ahnah said...

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your precious family Russell.

Ahnah and family

Lynette said...

We Love you Russ!!! You are amazing. Love Lynette and Dan

Laura said...

I am sorry to hear this! I am impressed with your strength and courage through this whole process. My prayers are headed your way to you and your sweet family!

Liz R. said...

i've been thinking a lot about this lately for whatever reason - about it not being "the end". you are right. our faith helps us know that this is not the end. it's just what's next. it's crappy that there is sadness for those that are left behind, but there is a lot to look forward to for you i think. it's going to be ok. love for you guys, liz

TLC said...

Russell and Family-
We are lifting you and your family up in prayer and knowing that HIS will continues to unfold in your life. Praying for peace, comfort and the promise of goods things to come both on Earth and in Heaven.

Erin said...

Rusell - I think of you all often. I am so amazed by all that you're doing and I know that you have the best and most supportive wife. We wish you all the best through such tough times. You are an inspiration.