General

 From Paul:

Cycle 4 (modified)

Every week is a new experience in this journey of love, hope and faith.

Early this week, Doris and I were considering the discomfort she is having in the form of extreme joint and muscle pain. The areas of discomfort seem to have settled mostly in her shoulders and knees. This combination of pain makes it difficult for her to get out of pretty much any chair in our home. At her suggestion, I researched the side effects of her medications. One side effect was common to all three: Joint and muscle pain.  I called the Cancer Institute with her permission and spoke with the nurse, who mustered members of Doris’ treatment team. I explained that her pain has increased to a point where we need some help in knowing how to manage that pain. Doris had reached the point of asking for help. As I described the situation to the nurse, she was very supportive and understanding. That was Tuesday. Within a few minutes, the nurse called and spoke with Doris and told her that they were sending a prescription for pain medication for her to try. Medical follow up on how it was working for her would come on Thursday.

While this new medication did not fully relieve the pains, it made it more manageable, and I felt like my sweetheart had returned! She has been sweet and kind and patient through difficult times so far, but her pain became a distraction, with every movement being accompanied with pain.

As we met with the provider, she stated very succinctly that the pain that Doris is having is attributable to her medication, all three of which have this kind of pain listed as one of their side-effects. I felt Doris was inspired when she asked me to research the side-effects of these medications, and that our prayers in behalf of her medical team were answered. When Doris met with the provider on Thursday, she was asked to move from one chair to the examining chair. When she moved, I think our provider was watching carefully, and compassionately. She counseled us on how to use pain relief medication effectively and suggested that the ramp up of Oral Medication #2 be slowed, instead of being doubled as scheduled. As a result, Doris will be on the same level of medication for at least another week. Doris sometimes has tears associated with her treatment, but it is most often the case when those who are caring for her use their gifts, skills and judgment in a compassionate manner. Doris’ grace in interacting with all who spend time with her is inspiring. She never fails to thank them for their assistance, and compliments them for their attentive care, as they seek to fulfill their responsibilities as they exercise their nursing or medical skills. Treating the patient ahead of treating the disease must be the priority. We are grateful for their skills, understanding, and kindness. The Cancer Institute is a solemn and holy space. There is joy and hope. There is kindness and rejoicing in good news. I had to wipe a tear or two as a woman who was surrounded by loved ones rang the bell just across from where Doris was receiving her infusion.

On we go to the next step of our journey, knowing only this: The Lord is our partner and He will see to our needs and nurture us along this lengthy path towards healing.

 

From Doris:

Happy Birthday, Mom and Dad

My parents were both born in the month of September.  Mom was born on the 16th and Dad on the 22nd. This upcoming week would have been their birthday week. I miss them very much, but the lessons I learned from them influence me every day. Whenever I needed guidance in my life, I called my father. When I was discouraged, I called my mother. 

I have received many priesthood blessings during my cancer journey.  Regardless of who was giving the blessing, every single blessing promised me that angels would be with me. I am certain that my parents have been among the angels God has sent to strengthen and support me.  I still need guidance. I still need help fighting discouragement.  How grateful I am that my parents are still helping me. 

Families are forever.  Love lasts forever.