11.26.2008

I called dad this morning to see how he did last night and he said that he slept well considering the pain he is experiencing. His appetite remains good, he made the following comment while we were discussing food

"You and your mother have spoiled me, you usually inquire if anything sounds good several times a day and yesterday you didn't ask me."

I explained to him that I had called last evening but he was asleep and asked what sounded good to him. He replied "WienerSchnitzel has extra long chili dogs two for a dollar and that sounds really good". He let me know that he and mom were headed down there as soon as they finished up with an appointment they had at the house.

It is evident that dad does not feel well as he is experiencing some mild anxiety and irritability. None of this can possibly be easy for our father, I am sure that he thinks of many things, scenarios, and situations in the quietness of each day. Through fear, pain, anxiety, and sadness dad continues to prove that his spirit is stronger than anything that can happen to his mortal body.

Marty, Teri and the girls will be here later this evening and we will look forward to a memorable Thanksgiving; we have much to be grateful for.

11.25.2008

Dad did not sleep well at all last night; his gout remains the same and he is just downright miserable. Yet, if you ask him how he is doing he replies "wonderful, I am doing wonderful". Dad's amazing attitude continues to teach me that one's attitude towards life determines life's attitude toward us. Each day may not be good, but when we have a great attitude we can find something good amongst the bad.

When I spoke with mom later this evening she indicated that dad had been asleep since 5:30 p.m., he is trying to make up for missed Zzzzzzz's last night. Soup was the choice for dad's lunch menu, we are hoping he will wake up in time to eat a little something for dinner.

11.24.2008

Dad phoned early this morning to see if I could bring him some milk, his had gone bad. When I arrived at their home it was evident that dad was in a great deal of pain, the gout has settled in the arches of his feet and he is miserable. Dad had been waiting for me to arrive so that he could eat his breakfast and take his morning medications.

I spoke with mom on my way to work and she informed me that dad had a miserable night. He was in a great deal of pain and had even spiked a temperature, she was able to bring his fever down but his pain is causing him great discomfort. She and I are both going to do some research today to see if there is more we can do for dad.

Mom spoke with one of the nurses at the college and she mentioned several things that we could do to try to alleviate some of dads pain. When I spoke with mom at lunchtime she was on her way to find some cherry juice; we will try anything at this point.

I called dad on my way home from work and when I asked how he was doing he replied "wonderful, I feel so much better this afternoon. I think I have finally gotten on top of this gout". I could hear in dads voice his improved strength, encouraged demeanor, and once again, his positive attitude. He told me that he had eaten a can of Campbells Chicken Noodle Soup for lunch and was planning on having Campbells Tomato Soup for dinner. Campbell Soup Company, we love you!

With each new day we find dad's physical strength improving and his determination and dedication powerful. I am discovering and appreciating that nothing is worth more than one more day.

11.23.2008

Mom spent the morning in Salt Lake in the Tabernacle with the choir. I checked on dad while mom was at church, I found him in his office, scriptures open, and their ward's meeting playing in the background. I was able to share another great conversation with dad on the topic of Missionary Work, he is so proud of Gentry and his recent return with honor from the Georgia Atlanta Mission. Dad's gout is still causing him great discomfort yet his overall appearance improves each and every day. I will check back later this evening.


Dad phoned late this afternoon and asked me if I had a Mountain Dew, had I heard him correctly????? Our father does not drink Mountain Dew. I told him that I possibly had a bottle in the garage that one of the kids had left behind and if I did I would bring it right over. I shared with Dave our phone conversation and within a few minutes Dave had produced two bottles of Mountain Dew, ahh... another wish granted. I walked the Dew and a loaf of sourdough bread over to dad and spent some time visiting with he and mom, Mom and I then prepared dad's medications for the week. Maigan, Dave, Easton and Cooper arrived shortly after and then Matt and his entire family joined in. We had a fun filled evening visiting, laughing, and cousin play time. Dad mentioned several times this evening how grateful he is that his desire to eat snack foods has returned, he has been enjoying a bag full of potato chips this evening along with mom's caramel puff snack mix.

Dad once again referred to the teachings of Isaiah and how Isaiah expresses that one will never know who or how they clothe another individual through proper fasting and prayer. Dad quoted several scriptures in Matthew and Isaiah, we are so blessed to witness our father's powerful testimony; especially now when we need it the very most.

Following the departure of everyone but myself, dad asked me to pour him his Mountain Dew and to find "that bag of potato chips your mother put away". I am so blessed to be able to serve this incredible man, his simple wishes are my uttermost priority. Our hugs are tighter these days, the "I Love You's" more meaningful, and I feel stronger and braver at the mere sound of his voice. I would "Dew" anything for these wonderful parents of ours.

11.22.2008

Mom does not have assignments in Salt Lake this evening, she has spent the day preparing for food for Thanksgiving. Dad's gout is making him quite miserable; he is unable to rest peacefully at night and his legs are very swollen and tight. Mom has placed a phone call to the doctor in hopes of getting more medicine and possibly a change in prescriptions.

Dad has been given additional medication for his gout and upon reading the prescriptions accompanying literature mom read that chemo is known for causing gout; are you kidding me???? We are going to aggressively battle this nasty set back and assure dad that we will not allow his pain to get out of control.

We had invited mom and dad over for dinner and the big game, mom called late this afternoon and stated that dad fallen asleep while she was out working in the yard. I encouraged her to allow him to rest and to just come over if he felt like it once he woke up. We were happy to see mom and dad slowly walking up our driveway a few short hours later. Dad kept reminding me that he didn't want too much to eat yet he had a hearty bowl of chicken chili and chopped green salad for dinner.

My heart is full this evening; having mom and dad back in our home following dad's 19 days of hospitalization (yes, he counted) for good food, good company, endless laughter, and memories to last a lifetime give me reason to celebrate the abundance of gratitude I feel.

11.21.2008

Mom took dad to his appointment with the Urologist today, everything checked out fine. After today's appointment dad is now able to remove another medication off of his lengthy regimen; we are grateful.

Dad asked mom to stop at China Isle on their way home from Provo to pick up some take out, dad had seen an ad from the restaurant and had been craving some of their soup. Dad had egg drop soup for lunch today and is looking forward to a hot and spicy Chinese soup for dinner. I phoned dad later this afternoon to see how he was doing, we visited about his appointment and discussed once again how well he is recovering. Dad is going to count up just how many days he spent in the hospital over the past couple of weeks; he is still haunted by the trauma and remains convinced that he has been taking far too many medications that do not play well together, I am leaning more and more that direction myself.

I walked over this evening to spend time with dad; he was just finishing up a bowl of Burnt Almond Fudge Ice Cream as I arrived. Dad's gout has flared up again the past couple of days and he is quite miserable with this. Dad has been spending a great deal of time reading in Isaiah the past couple of days so our conversation this evening was centered around the teachings he has been studying. I continue to marvel at our father's knowledge and wisdom in the gospel; dad shared his thoughts and ideas about tithing and fasting with me this evening. Once again I have been taught at the feet of my father.

Maigan, Dave, and Easton stopped by on their way home from dinner; Easton continues to delight dad with his fun, active personality that floods each of us with memories of Anthony 25 years ago.

11.20.2008

Dad remains very weak and tired; he will fall asleep right in the middle of a conversation. We know that as his appetite increases his strength will be restored.

Dad is resting well and attempting to do a little work on the computer.

11.19.2008

Dad has spent the day resting and taking it easy, he is so grateful to be home and in his own bed. Mom indicated that dad was somewhat restless last evening; he is probably nervous about the fever returning.

Dad wanted more Campbells soup this evening for his dinner, we are willing to prepare anything and everything that sounds good to him. I took Maigan and Easton over later this evening to visit; Easton is great entertainment and proved to be a sweet distraction to all of the medical chaos we have been experiencing. Dad looks better each and every day, he is aware that his body has been slammed and is finally convinced that we must take one step at a time towards renewed strength and energy. He has even mentioned that he will need to wear a mask when going to his upcoming doctor appointments; this is huge!

Dad is looking forward to Thanksgiving and mentions it often.

11.18.2008

Dad spent the day resting, receiving IV antibiotics and resting some more. Matt stopped by before going home this evening to visit with dad.

Dad's medical oncologist, neurosurgeon, infectious disease physician and hospitalist have each been in to visit with dad today. Dad's oncologist told him that we should have discontinued dad's chemo the day he had his last radiation treatment; the radiation and chemo dad has been on go together and should not be taken alone, no one had ever informed us of this. He also indicated that the chemo alone can cause fevers; add everything else going on and you have a recipe for disaster. Dad's neurosurgeon was very encouraging, he commended dad on how well he was doing and was optimistic for a very positive future.

Dad also met with the Dietitian yesterday, I think that someone put a bug in her ear that dad was refusing their undesirable cuisine.

Mom called me early this afternoon to let me know that dad would be discharged following his last dose of IV antibiotics. Matt was at the hospital when mom arrived and they were on their way home shortly after.

I called to check on dad before leaving work to ask him if there was anything that sounded good to eat, he mentioned that all he wanted was a can of Campbells Chicken Noodle Soup. I suggested some fresh pineapple and eclairs that I had saved from Sunday and he said they both sounded good to him. I told dad that I would be there in just a little bit to help him get some dinner; mom had a meeting at work that she needed to attend.

When I arrived at mom and dad's dad was up sitting in the kitchen watching an old western, we visited for a few minutes and he expressed that he was nervous and anxious about the fever returning. We talked about all of the positive aspects of this entire ordeal and discussed the abundant blessings our family has received over the past several months. Our father is intensely aware of the many tender mercies in our behalf and acknowledges the sacred power of prayer.

Dad's 6 week radiation/chemo cycle was never interrupted due to low blood counts, fever, illness, or complications; we are so blessed.

Dad has been able to remain at home for the majority of his recovery and mom has been able to continue working; we are so blessed.

Dad has an amazingly talented medical team who offer expertise, compassion, love, and encouragement; we are so blessed.

Our family has been lifted up daily by the numerous prayers and fasts being offered in our behalf; we are so blessed.

Mom returned home early this evening and I prepared dad's new regiment of medications. Dad has been taken off the oral antibiotics, anti-seizure, chemo, anti-nausea, and steroids. The only medication re-introduced is another anti-seizure medication. Maigan stopped by for a few minutes to see dad, she has not been back to visit since January; many things have changed. Dad and she had a tender visit and will be able to have several more over the next 10 days.

Dad's fever incidents remain a mystery; for the time being we agree with dad's medical team that quite possibly the combination of the chemo and some of the medications could be the base problem for dad's recurring temperature and chills. Time will tell.

11.16.2008

I received a phone call from Marty at 2:00 a.m. requesting that I come over to mom's immediately; dad has a fever and is declining rapidly. Upon arrival mom was on the phone to dad's Medical Oncologists answering service requesting direction. As I checked on dad it was obvious that things were not good; dad was flush with fever, experiencing excruciating pain in his shoulder, dizzy, and disoriented.

Matt arrived shortly after; he and Marty administered and pronounced a sweet blessing upon our seriously ill father. I called ICU at UVRMC to advise them of dad's condition and was instructed to bring dad in. Explaining this news to my father was possibly one of the most heart wrenching experiences of my life, he did not want to go yet we knew that he had no choice. For a brief moment I was aware of how difficult this whole ordeal is on our mother, I pray for the ability to be just like her. We were able to get dad robed, coated, fit with his beanie, and wrapped in blankets. I gathered and gave to mom his most recent discharge documents, and medication lists while Marty and Matt loaded him in the warm car.

Marty drove mom and dad to Provo with Matt following shortly behind; I stayed at mom's as Shelby was asleep in the back bedroom. Marty and I both had the strongest feelings earlier this evening that we should not fall asleep; Marty laid awake in anticipation of mom summoning his help as I scrubbed floors somehow knowing my phone would be ringing.

Marty was pulled over by law enforcement en route to the hospital, mom's car is seriously out of alignment and was swerving back and forth. The officer initially surmised that Marty had been drinking, upon seeing and hearing our father in the front seat it was obvious that Marty needed to get our father medical attention quickly.

Dad spent nearly 8 hours in the ER before being admitted to a room. All physicians on his medical team have been informed and we are now back to square one of the fever mystery. IV's were started, two tylenol and two ibuprofen brought his fever down and the course of IV antibiotics have been started for the third time. We are praying for answers, comfort, patience and peace.

It was difficult to not have mom and dad in attendance at Elder Bean's homecoming today; it was more challenging knowing that I could not be by their side. Uncle Ted, Aunt Connie and Carrie left for the hospital following Sacrament Meeting and Matt's family traveled over after rendering sweet service in our home feeding our many guests. Marty was able to gain a few hours of rest and checked in on mom and dad often. Dad was restlessly trying to catch up on much needed rest last evening and mom tried to rest as well. Mom returned home later this evening and went directly to bed, she is emotionally, physically, and mentally exhausted.

11.15.2008

Mom had an assignment in Salt Lake this morning; dad spent the day resting and remaining quiet. I called to check on dad in the early afternoon and tell him that I had run into his surgeon at Costco. I expressed to dad the shock and amazement of Dr. Gaufin when I told him dad had completed all of his radiation treatments. I conveyed to dad Dr. Gaufin's sentiments and well wishes and reminded him that he has defied several odds throughout this battle.

Dad is extremely weak and fatigued. We are sure that it is a combination of all that has slammed his body lately; chemo, radiation, blood poisoning, sepsis, gout, fevers, powerful antibiotics, and two back to back hospitalizations. We must be patient, it is going to take time for dads immune system to build back up and for his strength to return.

Mom returned home and spent the evening visiting with Marty, Shelby, and Anthony. Dad does not appear to feel well this evening, we will watch him closely.

11.14.2008

This man must know that he is a miracle,

That since the beginning of the world there has not been

And until the end of the world there will not be another man like him.

When I spoke with dad this morning he informed me that Dr. Clark had his mask delivered to UVRMC so that dad could receive his final radiation treatment this morning. It is nothing short of miraculous that our father has handled his treatments so well; it is hard to believe that dad has completed all 30 sessions of his radiation treatments and now has only three more doses of chemo. A celebration is in order. Dad made the following statement when telling me about his excitement over completing radiation:

"If you can't bring the mountain to Mohammad

Take Mohammad to the mountain"

We know that Dr. Clark was inspired to correlate with UVRMC dad's final radiation treatment; he knew how much it meant for dad to complete the task 100 percent and we knew our father would never settle for 99.9.

Dad was released from the hospital this afternoon and is getting settled at home. He and mom stopped at Parker's Drive-In on their way home from Provo. Michele and I had planned a Radiation Celebration for this evening but due the kids getting sick they will not be able to participate.


Dave and I took a celebration of balloons, sparkling cider, and lemon bars to join mom and dad in acknowledgement of dad's great feat of accomplishment. Dad is happy to be home yet very weak and physically exhausted. We had a wonderful evening of visiting, dad was not hungry or thirsty so the lemon bars and bubbly will be put on ice for a later date.

Dad received a certificate of completion from the Radiation Oncology Team. We are so grateful to Dr. Clark and his incredible staff who have provided encouragement, support, love, and immeasurable knowledge.

Above is the mesh mask that dad would wear for each of his radiation treatments; dad would be positioned on the table and this mask was placed over his face and snapped to the table. The mask prevented dad from moving and assured that the beams of radiation were directed to the correct sites. I was amazed at how tight this was on dad's face and head; after each treatment dad had two indentations on the back of his head from the snaps. Our father truly is a man of courage, great faith, humility, strength, and resilient; he is one of a kind.

11.13.2008

Dad has had a quiet day with minimal medical activity, he and his IV pole took an unassisted walk around the floor, showered, rested and visited with Dave for a couple of hours this evening.

We are still waiting for results of cultures, tests, and lab work. Is no news good news? This in itself is a mystery.

Upon returning home this evening Dave reported that Dad looked good, acted better, and their conversation was at it's best.

11.12.2008

Dad was moved out of IMC today; he remains on IV fluids and antibiotics, several other medications were discontinued today. Dad's iron and potassium levels are now within normal limits and his edema is slowly decreasing. Heart rate, pulse, temperature, oxygenation, and attitude are all within normal limits; we are grateful for another good day.

Matt stopped by to visit with dad prior to heading out of town for work; he shared with dad a tender experience a total stranger has had regarding our father and the power of prayer.

We often comment that "we feel each and every prayer offered in behalf of our family," we sincerely mean this. I had a colleague today ask me if I was aware of the number of individuals praying for our father; my reply was immediate, although we may not know the exact number of those praying, we do know in our hearts that there are many. We feel it. We not only savor the words of your prayers but we are being sustained through the faith in which you pray. We know that we cannot take this journey alone, we need you and the help of our Father in Heaven.

Gentry, Mom, Uncle David and Aunt Gayle had a great time visiting with dad this evening. Dad looks well and remains positive, hopeful, and happy. I marvel at our parents abilities to remain steady and true as they walk this trail of uncertainty. Mom and Dad have willingly accepted to deal with hard things so that those of us looking in may learn from their strength, humility, faith, love, and testimonies.

Gentry and I were able to participate in family prayer with mom and dad this evening; as mom once again offered a prayer full of reverent gratitude her words were pulsating, yearning, and ever so tender.

Our parents firm belief in a loving Father in Heaven continues to provide peace, strength and comfort. We know that prayer is more than just words; we realize that we must exercise faith, be true in all we do, and humbly wait for His divine guidance.

Research has shown that quiet meditation, prayers and or the comfort of being prayed for lowers blood pressure, reduces stress hormones, slows the heart rate and has other beneficial effects. Many studies through the years indicate that believers in the power of prayer are healthier than non-believers; we are believers and our dad is too. Anyone who can endure spinal meningitis, two quadruple by-pass surgeries, heart stent placement x2, pacemaker and defibrillator surgery, renal failure, congestive heart failure and glioblastoma cancer; who remains as positive as our dad, must be evidence that he has connected to a divine understanding of himself and opened doors that extend beyond our comprehension, our father is a remarkable believer.

Thank you to each of you who remind us daily that we must clothe ourselves in the armor of God always; as we press forward, stand strong, and earnestly battle the storms of life.

11.11.2008

Happy Birthday to Samantha Emma Evans and our late grandmother, Emma Tucker Evans. Samantha Emma turns 8 today, she was appropriately named after our father's mother.

We were informed early this afternoon that dad will remain in the hospital for at least a week; they are not going to release him until they get to the bottom of his current setback. The ENT Physician has ordered that dad not be sent home until they have a handle on the source of infection and the cause for dad's blood loss. Dad's platelets and red blood cells are within normal limits which indicates that chemo is not the cause of the change in dad's blood counts.
Dad was hopeful that he would be discharged to home today; those hopes have been put on hold.

Gentry delivered some clothing, razor, books, and the latest edition of The Ensign to dad this afternoon; the two of them spent a couple of hours visiting and catching up on the past 24 months.

Mom brought in soup and salad from Olive Garden this evening, dad ate until he could eat no more. Mom and Dad called to wish Sammie a "Happy Birthday", they had fun visiting with this "sparky" little 8 year old.

Dad's ICU physician stopped by to visit today, again he reiterated how sorry he was that dad was back in the hospital and his commitment in making sure dad does not go home until we have some answers. We are still waiting for cultures to come back.

11.10.2008

Mom was able to visit with dad's nurse, Judy this morning regarding dad's condition and treatment plan for the day. Judy reported that dad has voiced his concern with being discharged to the 7th floor; mom informed her of our 7th floor nightmare, she now understands and will convey to the doctor our apprehensions. Dad's iron remains low, edema high, renal function compromised, and source of infection still a mystery. The doctors have ordered that dad see a Ear Nose and Throat specialist for more cultures of his sinus, they are leaning towards this being a possible source of dad's infection. Judy is going to take dad over to the physicians plaza this afternoon for more cultures. Dad was returned to IMC without incident following the cultures, the ENT Physician indicated that it will take 24-48 hours for the cultures to grow out, he will then test several different ranges of antibiotics to determine resistance factors. Dad's ICU Physician stopped by today and advised dad that they are determined to get to the bottom of this; we are so grateful for the knowledge, concern, compassion, and tender mercies of a fantastic medical team.

Dad is not eating again due to the continuation of more "fowl meals", he did say that a slice of pizza sounded really good; Dave and I will get a warm slice of pizza to him shortly.

Matt and his family stopped by to visit with dad this evening for Family Home Evening. Mom, Dave and I spent the evening visiting with dad as he enjoyed his slice of ham/pineapple pizza. Dad has been started on Lasix for his water retention; this should relieve the pressure in his legs and around his kidneys and heart. IV fluids are being pushed as well as antibiotics.

Prior to leaving this evening dad suggested that we have family prayer together, mom offered a beautiful, tender prayer petitioning the Lord's hand in blessing the medical team that they will quickly and accurately determine the source of the infection that is besetting our father's body at this time; we humbly ask that your prayers request the same.

11.9.2008

Mom completed her early morning assignment at the Tabernacle this morning and then arrived at the hospital to spend the afternoon and evening with dad.

Dad has had a CT of his head and some other tests today as his medical team continues to solve the mystery of dad's current condition. The CT came back showing edema (swelling, fluid build up) of his surgical site, this is not surprising considering radiation and brain surgery; it is negative for a blood clot or a bleed. Dad's legs remain swollen, it is obvious he is retaining fluid; the fluctuation of his weight is also an indicator he is retaining water.

Dave, Gentry and I spent the afternoon visiting with mom and dad. Jeff, his family, Matt and Michele arrived later this afternoon. Dad should rest well this evening following a great afternoon of visiting. One of our favorite nurses (Big Dave) is the floor manager today, we are confident and comfortable knowing dad will be treated with respect and quality care.

11.8.2008

Gentry spent the early afternoon visiting with mom, dad, Teri and the girls. Teri is preparing to return to Boise, they will be back next weekend for Gentry's homecoming.

Dad has enjoyed a good day until this afternoon when he began vomiting, chilling and running a fever. Mom got dad settled into bed where he fell asleep immediately. Mom had taken his temperature before he went to sleep, it was somewhat elevated. Mom called ICU at Utah Valley Regional Medical Center to report dad's condition, she was instructed to check dad's temperature in an hour and if it was over 101.6 she was to report to the ER. Mom had a nagging feeling after 30 minutes that she needed to take dad's temperature again, it had continued to rise. Mom loaded dad in the car and headed to the ER.

Dad threw up on the way to Provo and has started chilling, an IV was started and Tylenol was administered upon admission to the ER. All physicians on dad's medical team are being contacted to determine the best course of action. Several vials of blood were drawn, fluids are being pushed, chest x-ray obtained, and a sinus culture was taken by the staff.

Dad has been admitted to IMC and will be treated with more antibiotics. Initial test results show that dad has an infection somewhere even after a week full of oral and IV antibiotics. Dads iron is also low which could possibly indicate a bleed somewhere in his body. Dad's renal function is also out of range.

I visited on the phone with the hospital physician in IMC this evening regarding dad's medications and the possibility that a combination of some of them could be the cause of dad's current fever and infection.

We are grateful that dad is back in IMC where he received incredible care pre and post craniotomy, mom said that dad made it very clear to the ER Physician that he "will not be going to the 7th floor", we agree.

11.7.2008

Dad has spent the day at home resting and visiting with the girls. Teri and the girls raked leaves in mom and dads yard until dad insisted they stop; lunch and milk shakes from JCW's were a welcome treat and enjoyed by all.

Jeff, Steph, and Peyton stopped by this afternoon to visit with dad. Dad received his 29th radiation treatment today and will complete this round of chemo/radiation on Monday, he is beyond excited. Dad's gout continues to improve each and every day.

11.6.2008

Teri and the girls have have arrived and will spend the morning with dad until it is time to to leave for the airport to welcome home Elder Bean.

Mom and dad were able to visit with dad's Radiation Oncologist today; once again, dad was told how remarkable he is. Dr. Clark expressed his amazement at how well dad has responded to treatment despite his current bump in the road. Dr. Clark indicated that in all of his years of practice he has not witnessed a patient respond like dad has, we are so blessed.

Mom brought dad to our home following his appointment where he was able to have a tearful, love filled reunion with Gentry. Dad spent a short time visiting with family and then returned home to rest. Dad's determination, faith, hope, and will to press forward are stronger than ever, this is both comforting and inspiring.

11.5.2008

Dave went over and spent time with dad this morning, dad is doing better and not needing his cane this morning. Mom took dad to radiation today before leaving for The Conference Center, I will go in early this evening to prepare his dinner. Dad's appetite continues to be a struggle but we give him an A+ for effort.

I arrived at 5:30 this evening to find dad in the kitchen finishing up his dinner, he had eaten some homemade soup that mom had prepared earlier that afternoon and was topping off his evening meal with a bowl of sherbet. Dad looks and acts much stronger this evening, the swelling in his legs is still present but his legs are not as warm to the touch.

Dad and I had a great visit this evening discussing mom and her love of speed; she ski's fast, she rides horses fast, she walks fast, she cleans fast, she works fast, loves fast rides at amusement parks, and she drives fast. Several jokes, comments, and stories made for an evening of laughter. Nights like tonight are my most cherished treasures. As we prepared to head for the bedroom this evening dad expressed to me through tear filled eyes his disappointment that he would not be able to be at the airport tomorrow to welcome his missionary home. I explained to dad that there is no way we would allow him to go even if he could; it would be far too risky. I promised that he would see Elder Bean as soon as his radiation appointment was over.

I got dad settled back in bed, took his temperature and left him to watch some movies until mom returns a few hours from now.

11.4.2008

Dad has spent a quiet day at home resting following a large breakfast of eggs, yogurt, banana, and toast. Mom and dad had committed to a week full of events at the Conference Center this week thinking that dad would be strong enough to participate, unfortunately, dad is too weak and ill to accompany mom. All in due time.

Mom took dad to his radiation appointment and I met them there, the staff was so excited to see dad, their enthusiasm and encouraging words were the best medicine he could have possibly received this afternoon. I took dad home and got him settled in his bed, I will return to prepare his dinner in a couple of hours.

Dad ate a good dinner this evening of warm soup, crackers and fresh peaches; he has eaten well today considering his energy level and the effort it takes to get up out of bed to eat. Dad's gout is still very bothersome; his legs are swollen and he is barely able to get shoes on, it is unfortunate that physician orders for medication were not followed as dad has suffered immensely.

Following dinner dad slowly made his way back to his bed and is ready to settle in for the evening. I called to check on dad later in the evening and he was resting comfortably in bed, mom will be home shortly.

11.3.2008

Dad is now home resting comfortably in his own bed. Mom was able to bring dad home late this afternoon and is now getting him settled. Dad is extremely weak and unsteady on his feet, we are hopeful that with home cooked meals, a shower, and the comforts of home, he will feel much better very soon.

Words alone cannot express our deep appreciation for the many prayers, messages, and encouraging words each of you have expressed. Our Father in Heaven continues to be so good to us, there is no shadow of doubt that our combined prayers have been heard and answered.

There is a powerful feeling of assurance and peace that accompany our father wherever he goes, we feel it, others feel it, and he feels it; your prayers continue to provide the means for this peace to be present.

The opportunity to pray to our Father in Heaven daily is a privilege; yet, I am reminded that my responsibility is not finished when I say "amen". Amulek taught:

"And now behold, my beloved brethren,...after ye have prayed, if ye turn away the needy, and the naked, and visit not the sick and afflicted, and impart of your substance, if ye have, to those who stand in need-I say unto you, if ye do not any of these things, behold, your prayer is vain, and availeth you nothing, and ye are as hypocrites who do deny the faith." Alma 34:28

Through the examples of many we are being shown that we must never forget to live gospel principles as earnestly as we pray to our Father in Heaven. Each of you have strengthened us with prayer, touched our lives with your love and provided us courage, hope, and peace. We are surrounded by angels.

As mom was visiting with dad's physician today he reiterated how very close we came to losing our father last Monday, dad was critically ill when he was admitted to the ICU. Dr. Bishop explained to mom that very often a cancer patient will not die from the disease but from a secondary infection or fever. Dad has indicated that he is going to "slow down" and not get so anxious about "getting back to normal", patience and faith are going to be the key factors.

11.2.2008

The weather outside is reflected in dad's hospital room today; dad is still struggling with his gout and the medicine they are giving him just makes him sleepy. Marty,Mom, Matt and his family spent the afternoon watching dad sleep. I arrived later in the afternoon; after watching dad sleep for an hour I suggest he try to stay awake and eat some dinner. Nothing sounds appetizing to him, it takes a great deal of encouragement and talk of "home" to get him to submit to hospital food. Dad did eat some meat, potatoes, gravy, carrots, jello and a few bites of carrot cake. I then gave him some of his frozen Jamba Juice in a dish and he ate that as well, every bite taken is one step closer to home.

Following dad's dinner the three of us had the most delightful conversation about their childhoods and simpler times. Their intriguing stories invited laughter, tears and tender sentiments into dad's gloomy hospital room. Whether I am with mom and dad for a minute or hours on end I inevitably walk away having learned a powerful principle or lesson. I learned things about my grandparents, great-grandparents, and aunts and uncles today that I would have never known had I not spent the evening in room 780. Thanks mom and dad for an inspiring evening.

11.1.2008

Dad has spent a most miserable night in pain and unable to sleep. Dad's gout has returned with a vengeance; the staff did not follow the physicians orders, therefore dad was left to lie in pain for hours. They finally gave him something for the pain which knocked him completely out. Michele, Tanner, and Madi came to show dad how cute Madi looked in her Halloween costume but dad could not stay awake enough to enjoy their visit. They went to Baskin Robbins to get dad some sherbet, he ate what he could.

Mom had an assignment in Salt Lake this morning and is picking dad up a sandwich from his favorite German deli. Marty is busy at mom and dad's doing a few more "Soney Do's", we are so thankful for his willingness to drive from Boise to alleviate some of mom and dads worries. It is always a good time when Marty is around.

Marty and mom spent the evening trying to visit with dad but he was still very sleepy and out of it. We are each trying to figure out the level of nursing care dad is receiving, it has been most challenging to go from the incredible care in ICU to no care on the 7th floor.