Oh what a year 2008 has been.
- In early April, I had to put down our beloved dog, Shasta--she was almost 15.
- In July I discovered a lump in my breast.
- In August, it was diagnosed as cancer.
- In September a week before surgery--the goldfish died.
- In September and October surgeries.
- In October chemo was started and continues.
Ok, this can all sound like self-pity, but I choose to look at all of these things with a positive spin.
- Shasta led a fantastic life--she spent great times at our cabin, chasing deer, playing in the snow, swimming in every lake, river, creek she encountered and even went river rafting. She gave us so much joy and companionship. But in her last few months she was failing--and in reality I could not have cared for her thru my ordeal.
- The fish died unexpectedly, but again who knows about a fish--he too had a good life. And I couldn't take care of him either.
- I was diagnosed with cancer--fortunately in an early stage--so I feel very lucky. As the doctors have said, for all they know it is gone, but we need to continue with treatments to insure that.
- I have had such support and assistance from friends and family--it is so heartwarming. And I know it has helped me recover so well.
So I think this has been one heck of a year. Of course, I look forward to 2009 and all the treaments being behind me--but 2008 has been memorable and in retrospect, fortunate for me.
I wish you all the best for 2009!
P.S. We have a deposit on a labrador puppy, hopefully arriving in the spring!
Monday, September 29, 2008
L'shana Tova
Sharon, Sharon's Family & Friends
From my family to yours, we wish you a healthy (hear that Sharon??) and happy New Year.
Teri
Birthday, Schmirthday!
It's Ok Becker, I give you a pass this year. (You weren't the only one who forgot!)It's not like you've had anything else going on. But next year, man oh man, are we going to party!! Laying on the beach, sipping Mai Tai's, I can see it all now. So as you are laying there tonight, think of the tropical breezes, the palm trees and the towel boys!!
Monday's Report
Oh Michael, you put a smile on my face--the food orders I put in for September and October have all my current favorite meals--but I will keep it in mind--hope all is well at the store. Kathy Bassett just stopped by to tell me of all the new corporate sign-ups--you are all incredible.
I got a surgery date of October 9th for my additional surgery--out-patient--so not a big deal. And met with the oncologist today. Chemo will start a couple of weeks after that surgery. All steps to recovery, right Teri?!
Okay, I know the only things I can keep in my brain are doctor's appointments and instructions, but how could I possibly forget Diana's birthday--I don't know--I did a double take of the date today--is it really the 29th??? Her birthday was the 27th!! Happy Birthday my dear Diana.
Love and thanks to all,
Sharon
I got a surgery date of October 9th for my additional surgery--out-patient--so not a big deal. And met with the oncologist today. Chemo will start a couple of weeks after that surgery. All steps to recovery, right Teri?!
Okay, I know the only things I can keep in my brain are doctor's appointments and instructions, but how could I possibly forget Diana's birthday--I don't know--I did a double take of the date today--is it really the 29th??? Her birthday was the 27th!! Happy Birthday my dear Diana.
Love and thanks to all,
Sharon
keep resting
Were all so glad to hear how well youre doing! Is there anything I can make for you food wise? that we can deliver to you??? I know you have some favorites. Id be happy to make them for you, yes Sharon you do have a "personal" chef. let me know!!
Michael
Michael
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Remember, it's only been one week!
You need to rest, girlfriend! That means, do nothing, nada, zilch. Lay on that couch and let your thighs spread. Eat chocolate, occasionally move the remote control, but stay down and keep Marco busy! That's an order!
Learning my limitations
Ok, I guess I overdid it on Friday, and am paying the price today. Had some major swelling--so went to see the doctor this AM--and will go back in tomorrow to check things again. So basically, I have been laying loooow today.
But of course enjoying all the wonderful dinners and treats that show up on our door step! Sous Kitchen dropped off meals for the freezer.
Thanks and love to all of you, Sharon
But of course enjoying all the wonderful dinners and treats that show up on our door step! Sous Kitchen dropped off meals for the freezer.
Thanks and love to all of you, Sharon
Friday, September 26, 2008
It's been one week...
I'm so glad that this week is over! I went to see my surgeons yesterday and they both said I am recovering really well. We got to see all of this without bandages and Marc said I look great! Three of the four drains were removed. But I will have to have a lymph node dissection in my right arm. So another surgery, but it will be an out-patient procedure. This will happen in a couple of weeks.
My brother is bringing my parents down to see me...and my Dad turned 88 yesterday. I haven't seen them for over a week.
I have been so spoiled by all of you with your thoughts, prayers and wonderful food. I know it is helping me and lessons the load on me and my family.
Lots of love,
Sharon
My brother is bringing my parents down to see me...and my Dad turned 88 yesterday. I haven't seen them for over a week.
I have been so spoiled by all of you with your thoughts, prayers and wonderful food. I know it is helping me and lessons the load on me and my family.
Lots of love,
Sharon
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Wednesday already?
It's Wednesday morning and I have been able to clean myself up and change my clothes! Funny how when you have to start from square one--these are all such wonderful accomplishments. Looking forward to washing my hair today too!! I found a new position to sleep in--propping myself on my side with pillows on the couch works. I am just not a back sleeper....
All the wonderful food and treats has been great. Glad I know such marvelous cooks and bakers. I am just soaking up all your energy good thoughts. Thanks.
All the wonderful food and treats has been great. Glad I know such marvelous cooks and bakers. I am just soaking up all your energy good thoughts. Thanks.
So Glad You're Home!
Home is where the heart is, and where the healing is. This is your time to rest, recuperate and rejuvenate! Be nourished by the food people bring to you and the love they send your way. Be patient with yourself. You are getting stronger everyday. Be well, my friend.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
The Rumor is True--I'm Home
You know being home is the greatest feeling in the world! The sky is bluer, the grass is greener and the sun is shinning brighter! I am still all wrapped up in a corset device and have drains hanging out (yuck) but hopefully I can get rid of these things when I see the doctor on Thursday. I am stiff and a bit owwy in a few places--but the more I move the better I will get. I have some exercises to start today.
The staff at Stanford were excellent. I got really great care. It was good to see all of you that came by the hospital, thank you. Now I am running my good husband ragged at home--he is so good to me. All for now.
Love, Sharon
The staff at Stanford were excellent. I got really great care. It was good to see all of you that came by the hospital, thank you. Now I am running my good husband ragged at home--he is so good to me. All for now.
Love, Sharon
Monday, September 22, 2008
Rumor mill has it
that Sharon has made it home -- way to go Sharon!!!
Now get out of bed and walk around .... welcome home
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Sharon Update, Sunday 9/21
Seeing Sharon today was wonderful, she is as graceful and strong as ever. Her recovery continues to be relatively smooth. She is feeling better each day, a little less pain when moving and with a little more strength. Marc is with her which is why he is not posting this update himself. To quote Sharon "he's a keeper!"
She really wants everyone to know how much all of your thoughts and concern mean to her. She is looking forward to coming home in the next couple of days.
She really wants everyone to know how much all of your thoughts and concern mean to her. She is looking forward to coming home in the next couple of days.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
What Happens in Cabo...
keeps us laughing.Funny, this is how I remember our trips! Learning about history (Sharon's favorite subject) in Virginia. Educating ourselves about our government in Washington DC and enjoying a little culture in New York. I have no idea where that picture from Cabo came from!
Next trip we win the dance contest with the Happy Dance! Welcome home Sharon.
Update on Sharon
Yesterday was a long day for everyone. For Sharon, for her family and her friends awaiting news.
The news was good. When they were bringing her to her room after surgery she yelled a triumphant "I did it!" Surgery went well and Sharon was pretty comfortable last night. She was very happy her boys were there when she woke up. Today, they moved her to a private room. Marc was there to greet her when she woke up early this morning. He helped her walk down the hall. Then when I visited this afternoon, we also took a walk and she sat up in a chair for a while. She said that it was getting easier! She looked great today and I know it's that strong energy everyone has sent her way. (And a lot is Sharon's resolve) Continue to send your thoughts to Sharon and her family. I know it means a great deal to them.
The news was good. When they were bringing her to her room after surgery she yelled a triumphant "I did it!" Surgery went well and Sharon was pretty comfortable last night. She was very happy her boys were there when she woke up. Today, they moved her to a private room. Marc was there to greet her when she woke up early this morning. He helped her walk down the hall. Then when I visited this afternoon, we also took a walk and she sat up in a chair for a while. She said that it was getting easier! She looked great today and I know it's that strong energy everyone has sent her way. (And a lot is Sharon's resolve) Continue to send your thoughts to Sharon and her family. I know it means a great deal to them.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Hallelujah!!
Such fantastic, wonderful news! Now Sharon, just rest, rest some more, and then a little bit more. When you are feeling better, we are all going to get together and do the happy dance! Yeah! Another reason to dance!
Sharon is Out of Surgery!
It is 4:45 p.m. Friday afternoon and Sharon is out of surgery! Everything went well and she is resting comfortably.
Thanks to everyone for their thoughts, prayers and energy today, I am certain she felt surrounded by all who care about her.
Thanks to everyone for their thoughts, prayers and energy today, I am certain she felt surrounded by all who care about her.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Thursday Night Thoughts--Pre Op
I just packed a bag for the 4-day hospital stay--fondly remembering one year ago when I was packing it for a 4-day cruise to Mexico...
I just wanted to pass along to everyone that I am feeling really strong, positive and at peace with all of the decisions I have made. I know that my feelings come from my dear and patient husband, my loving and teasing sons, my supportive family and my incredible friends. I have felt this wave of strength building in the last 24 hours and it just seems to be increasing--and it is from all of you--thank you so much. I will be in touch as soon as I can...
Love to all,
Sharon
I just wanted to pass along to everyone that I am feeling really strong, positive and at peace with all of the decisions I have made. I know that my feelings come from my dear and patient husband, my loving and teasing sons, my supportive family and my incredible friends. I have felt this wave of strength building in the last 24 hours and it just seems to be increasing--and it is from all of you--thank you so much. I will be in touch as soon as I can...
Love to all,
Sharon
Not only are we here Sharon.... You can't get rid of us!!!!
Just know that we all will be with you tomorrow as you go through your surgery. All of our positive energy, thoughts and prayers will be with you from all over the country, before, during and after your surgery. The love you are being sent from everyone will wrap around you as you heal and recover. I know you feel us!
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
More choices
Aloha Sharon
I know you are stressing about the perkiness and size you want, so as promised, these are the last of the pictures (from a resort down the way where we had PSB several years ago). I'm sure one of these pictures will be *exactly* what you want to show your doc.
My thoughts will be with you Friday via the airplane over the Pacific Ocean. (Does that mean I will be closer to the heavens - so my voice will heard more strongly?)
Teri
Ikaika
Ikaika- Hawaiian for strength
Koa wi woole'- Hawaiian for courage
Ipo- Hawaiian godess of beauty
These are the things I see in you
Pilialoha- Hawaiian for friendship
Mana olana- Hawaiian for hope
Laiki ola- Hawaiian for long life
These are the things I wish for you
Ohana- Hawaiian for family
This is what keeps us together
Mikaele- Hawaiian for your friend Michael
Koa wi woole'- Hawaiian for courage
Ipo- Hawaiian godess of beauty
These are the things I see in you
Pilialoha- Hawaiian for friendship
Mana olana- Hawaiian for hope
Laiki ola- Hawaiian for long life
These are the things I wish for you
Ohana- Hawaiian for family
This is what keeps us together
Mikaele- Hawaiian for your friend Michael
Aloha to you all
Teri I wish I was there in Maui with you--even though you say it is all work--just look at that view! Ok, thanks for the visual--a mermaid! Does that mean I will attract sea turtles? Off to work for the last day for a while!
Love to all--
Love to all--
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Aloha Sharon (and Friends and Family)
I made it to Maui as you can see by the picture with the palm tree
s, pool and ocean. Sharon -- I want you to know -- I'm thinking of you and trying to provide you with ideas about perkiness ... see the other photo ... I figure I have until Thursday to send these to you to help you with your decision ... (just kidding)
Teri
Wait a sec.. I thought what happens when the girls are away, stays there!
and besides we all have memories like a sieve. What doesn't stay away when the girls are back is all the love we have for each other. I know we'll all be sending our love and strength to Sharon, Marc, Brad and Matt as you begin this journey. As Teri said, we expect it to be a quick one.
~kathy
~kathy
Monday, September 15, 2008
You go girl!
Of course the p.p. would have to be the first comment!! Of course, we are all here with you and your family. I was a little intimidated at first about "blogging" but Teri explained it to us and look at me, I'm hip! Hey, I know a good book you can read during recovery. It's called "Down River" Ha ha! That ones a keeper! Take care, we love you all !! See you soon.
Of Course We Are Here...
...just try and get rid of us:-) So glad you found your Blog.
To get through the next couple of weeks it may help to remember the fun you had on our cruise last year to Cabo. Remember how the paparazzi constantly followed us to take our photos (oh, that was Cheryl they were after). The fun we had at the Cantina on the beach "tasting" tequila (oops that was ********). What about when we won that trivia contest (oh, that was those red hat ladies, but they cheated, Diana caught them). Looks like we need another trip, where could we go next...
You are in the thoughts and prayers of so many who are fortunate to have you as a friend.
To get through the next couple of weeks it may help to remember the fun you had on our cruise last year to Cabo. Remember how the paparazzi constantly followed us to take our photos (oh, that was Cheryl they were after). The fun we had at the Cantina on the beach "tasting" tequila (oops that was ********). What about when we won that trivia contest (oh, that was those red hat ladies, but they cheated, Diana caught them). Looks like we need another trip, where could we go next...
You are in the thoughts and prayers of so many who are fortunate to have you as a friend.
Thoughts and prayers from Virginia
Hi Girls!! I can't believe how long it took me to figure out how to even get to this****blog so I'm am going to post something just to prove I made it!! Yeah!!! Sharon... You are in my thoughts and prayers and have been added to my prayer list at church.... Don't get too excited... they still get surprised if I show up for 2 out of 4 Sundays.... They like me though, so that counts for something.....So... prayers from Virginia coming your way!



















