I have had many good days in my life, and one of my favorite sayings is "It's my best day!" But today really is my best day. Jeremy's doctor appoint with Dr. Pluard this morning was the best way to start off a Monday (or any day, for that matter). When the Dr. came in the room, 45 minutes after Jerm's scheduled time, he apologized to Jeremy for making him wait. Jeremy told him that it was ok if he had good news and Dr. Pluard said, I do have good news. He told Jeremy that he is all clear on the petscan and that as of this day, he is cancer free. CANCER FREE!!! Love the sound of that.
Just as we needed time to wrap our brain around it when he was diagnosed with cancer, we have to wrap our brain around the good news also. Our lives have changed so much the last few months and in MANY ways for the better......God gets your attention in some pretty strange ways sometimes. Our family has met some brave people and made amazing friends during this time. We realize who is with us for the long haul, no matter how long or how hard. So many of our friends stepped up to the plate and did so much for that and we will never forget it.
I will write more soon, after I get my thoughts together. A few last thoughts for now, to everyone who bought a raffle ticket, thanks so much. The money that was raised will help offset Jeremy's medical bills. Jeremy drew the ticket of Jim Grotha, he is a police officer in a different precinct.
Cancer affects so many people, of all ages, shapes, colors. I plan on fighting this disease in every way I know how. I know I often talk about the many people I have met who are patients at Siteman. Well, Friday I met the most amazing young woman. Her name is Elise Armondo and her husband, Jamie, has been diagnosed with cancer. Jamie and Elise have three young children. Elise is strong and scared and brave and hopeful and every other emotion all wrapped up into one. They have a hard battle ahead of them, but I know thru their faith, friends and family they will get thru it. Jamie is only 35 and I would ask that you remember him and his family in your prayers.
Until next time!
Jerm's happy parents
Monday, June 16, 2008
Thursday, June 12, 2008
I Saw God Today
and the day before, and the day before and every single day during this journey. There is a country song out now by that title, and one of the lines from the song is;
"His fingerprints are everywhere,
I just slowed down to stop and stare, I saw God today. "
I saw Him the day Jerm had surgery, in the care and concern for those who came and sat with us while we waited for the surgery to be over.
I saw Him in every handwritten note and card that was sent to him, like one from Don Wehmeyer, who is cancer free, but still being treated. And in the cards that were sent to Jerry & I.
I saw Him in every meal that was made for our family, or restaurant gift card during the long weeks of chemo.
I saw Him in every email and phone call that came our way, every posting on the blog, like the email I got from Bill & Dottie Webb. Bill is being treated for cancer and they took time out to let our family know they were praying for Jeremy.
I saw Him when Jeremy reconnected with friends and people from school that he hadn't heard from since Graduation Day.
I saw Him in Jim Vieth, himself a cancer survivor, who had never met my son, didn't know my family and left work on Jerm's second day of treatment to sit and talk.
I saw Him in every visitor that came by, even if it was for a minute or two.
I saw Him in the home baked goods that Jess, Marion & Missy had brought to share with others who were having chemo.
I saw Him in Jerm's coworkers who donated their sick days so Jerm would have plenty.
I saw Him everyday during Jerry's lunch hour when he would forgo lunch to come and sit with our boy for a while.
I saw Him in Jeremy's "chemo buddy", Carol Peterson, who is battling breast cancer and made her way to him one day after church to give him a hug.
I saw Him in church one Sunday, the first Sunday Jeremy was on the cancer prayer list, and before they read his name, Sheryl Mumma who was sitting in front of me, reached back and grabbed my hand and held onto it the rest of the service.
I saw Him in EVERY nurse and staff member that works at Siteman.
I saw Him in all the gifts and bandanna's that came Jerms way from people he didn't even know.
I saw Him in every inspirational tag Rhonda made for him before his long weeks of chemo.
I saw Him in Jess, who has stood by Jerm's side thru every single step of this journey. I saw Him in her kindness and concern for Jeremy and for us. She knows when to encourage, cry, be strong, be sensitive. She is so young and yet so mature in her thought process for the well being of those she cares for.
I saw Him in the Cardinal blanket made for Jerm by my Stephen's Ministry friends.
I saw Him in every hug, smile, tear and prayer.
I saw Him in my kids at school who daily asked if we could pray for my son during our prayer times.
I saw him in TeeTee. When I told her Jeremy was craving her meatballs, she went home that day and made them so he could have them for dinner that night.
I saw Him in each patient at Siteman, I saw Him in every face of those patients family members. Faces filled with fear AND hope.
Mostly, I saw God in Jeremy. I saw Jeremy lean on God and less on himself over the past few months. I saw Him as Jeremy's faith began to grow again and he was reminded that he is a child of God and that no matter what, he is NEVER alone in anything he goes thru, because God is always with him, no matter what roads we go down.
The one thing that I have come to realize is kindness can move mountains. It is so easy to be kind, to hold a door open (right Rob?), to give a hug, write a note, an email, to pick up the phone and leave a message, to ask someone how they are and then listen to what they are saying (or not saying) to sit with someone during a hard time, hold a hand....there are so many ways to be kind. It seems so small and it can make a BIG difference in someones day.
"His fingerprints are everywhere,
I just slowed down to stop and stare, I saw God today. "
I saw Him the day Jerm had surgery, in the care and concern for those who came and sat with us while we waited for the surgery to be over.
I saw Him in every handwritten note and card that was sent to him, like one from Don Wehmeyer, who is cancer free, but still being treated. And in the cards that were sent to Jerry & I.
I saw Him in every meal that was made for our family, or restaurant gift card during the long weeks of chemo.
I saw Him in every email and phone call that came our way, every posting on the blog, like the email I got from Bill & Dottie Webb. Bill is being treated for cancer and they took time out to let our family know they were praying for Jeremy.
I saw Him when Jeremy reconnected with friends and people from school that he hadn't heard from since Graduation Day.
I saw Him in Jim Vieth, himself a cancer survivor, who had never met my son, didn't know my family and left work on Jerm's second day of treatment to sit and talk.
I saw Him in every visitor that came by, even if it was for a minute or two.
I saw Him in the home baked goods that Jess, Marion & Missy had brought to share with others who were having chemo.
I saw Him in Jerm's coworkers who donated their sick days so Jerm would have plenty.
I saw Him everyday during Jerry's lunch hour when he would forgo lunch to come and sit with our boy for a while.
I saw Him in Jeremy's "chemo buddy", Carol Peterson, who is battling breast cancer and made her way to him one day after church to give him a hug.
I saw Him in church one Sunday, the first Sunday Jeremy was on the cancer prayer list, and before they read his name, Sheryl Mumma who was sitting in front of me, reached back and grabbed my hand and held onto it the rest of the service.
I saw Him in EVERY nurse and staff member that works at Siteman.
I saw Him in all the gifts and bandanna's that came Jerms way from people he didn't even know.
I saw Him in every inspirational tag Rhonda made for him before his long weeks of chemo.
I saw Him in Jess, who has stood by Jerm's side thru every single step of this journey. I saw Him in her kindness and concern for Jeremy and for us. She knows when to encourage, cry, be strong, be sensitive. She is so young and yet so mature in her thought process for the well being of those she cares for.
I saw Him in the Cardinal blanket made for Jerm by my Stephen's Ministry friends.
I saw Him in every hug, smile, tear and prayer.
I saw Him in my kids at school who daily asked if we could pray for my son during our prayer times.
I saw him in TeeTee. When I told her Jeremy was craving her meatballs, she went home that day and made them so he could have them for dinner that night.
I saw Him in each patient at Siteman, I saw Him in every face of those patients family members. Faces filled with fear AND hope.
Mostly, I saw God in Jeremy. I saw Jeremy lean on God and less on himself over the past few months. I saw Him as Jeremy's faith began to grow again and he was reminded that he is a child of God and that no matter what, he is NEVER alone in anything he goes thru, because God is always with him, no matter what roads we go down.
The one thing that I have come to realize is kindness can move mountains. It is so easy to be kind, to hold a door open (right Rob?), to give a hug, write a note, an email, to pick up the phone and leave a message, to ask someone how they are and then listen to what they are saying (or not saying) to sit with someone during a hard time, hold a hand....there are so many ways to be kind. It seems so small and it can make a BIG difference in someones day.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Chemo & Breakfast
WOOOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
That is the yell of four happy people you hear in the distance! Last treatment today, did you hear that?, last treatment! Nine weeks seems like forever and it seems like a few minutes! Today is happy and today is sad. Happy for the obvious reasons and sad because we have met AMAZING people at Siteman, nurses, receptionist, patients and their families. Jeremy is an amazing young man snd still our little boy. I am full of contradictions today.
It has been our tradition on Tuesdays to go out for breakfast after Jeremy's short treatments, we have done it from the first week. Somedays Jerm would eat a light breakfast and not be able to eat all of it, but today it was country fried steak and all the trimmings st Main Street Diner in St. Peters ( a wonderful little place with good home cookin'). And today Jerry met us for breakfast, not the way a lot of people would celebrate, but it is the way we celebrated. We call it Chemo & Breakfast, and we decided we may want to keep the & Breakfast part of Tuesdays:)
Of course, we still have to get thru until next Monday, when Jerm sees the doctor for his petscan results, waiting is so hard, ugh!
Much to Jerm's dismay, I had my camera today to mark the day. I will post the pics.
Also, I would ask that you remember the Center in your prayers, the staff and every patient that comes in there. I would especially ask for prayers for some old friends we have known, Carol Peterson, Don Wehmeyer, Pastor Christiansen who are still undergoing treatments. And for some new friends we have made, David Grossman, a young man who has the same thing Jeremy has and started his treatments yesterday. For my new friends Brian and Tom. Brian who has lung cancer and Tom who is on his second round of chemo after finding cancer in his liver. I would also ask that you keep their families in your prayers, I have learned that you can not stand on the sidelines and watch what this disease does to your loved ones, and that except for literally being treated for cancer, you, as their family member, feel every single emotion they have. It is hard to love someone and not be affected. I may have to keep the blog going to update you on these loved ones.
Thanks for all your prayers.
Jerm's mom & dad
That is the yell of four happy people you hear in the distance! Last treatment today, did you hear that?, last treatment! Nine weeks seems like forever and it seems like a few minutes! Today is happy and today is sad. Happy for the obvious reasons and sad because we have met AMAZING people at Siteman, nurses, receptionist, patients and their families. Jeremy is an amazing young man snd still our little boy. I am full of contradictions today.
It has been our tradition on Tuesdays to go out for breakfast after Jeremy's short treatments, we have done it from the first week. Somedays Jerm would eat a light breakfast and not be able to eat all of it, but today it was country fried steak and all the trimmings st Main Street Diner in St. Peters ( a wonderful little place with good home cookin'). And today Jerry met us for breakfast, not the way a lot of people would celebrate, but it is the way we celebrated. We call it Chemo & Breakfast, and we decided we may want to keep the & Breakfast part of Tuesdays:)
Of course, we still have to get thru until next Monday, when Jerm sees the doctor for his petscan results, waiting is so hard, ugh!
Much to Jerm's dismay, I had my camera today to mark the day. I will post the pics.
Also, I would ask that you remember the Center in your prayers, the staff and every patient that comes in there. I would especially ask for prayers for some old friends we have known, Carol Peterson, Don Wehmeyer, Pastor Christiansen who are still undergoing treatments. And for some new friends we have made, David Grossman, a young man who has the same thing Jeremy has and started his treatments yesterday. For my new friends Brian and Tom. Brian who has lung cancer and Tom who is on his second round of chemo after finding cancer in his liver. I would also ask that you keep their families in your prayers, I have learned that you can not stand on the sidelines and watch what this disease does to your loved ones, and that except for literally being treated for cancer, you, as their family member, feel every single emotion they have. It is hard to love someone and not be affected. I may have to keep the blog going to update you on these loved ones.
Thanks for all your prayers.
Jerm's mom & dad
Sunday, June 8, 2008
A Great Weekend!
The boys went to the shoot and had a great time! Jeremy even won an Annie Oakley...whatever that is. Jeremy drove the golf cart all around so that really helped the tired factor. I actually think Jerry was more excited that Jeremy went than Jeremy was. The shoot is Jerry's favorite day of the year, he likes it more than Christmas! I think it is because he is doing his favorite thing with his favorite person....well, one of his favorite persons:) They had a great time and then Jeremy came home, got cleaned up, put on his dressy do-rag (almost wore the one with the hair TeeTee) and we drove him to South St. Louis to a wedding reception Jess was at. She was in a wedding but didn't want Jerm to miss the shoot so they caught up with each other at the reception.
Today Jeremy went for a motorcycle ride with some of his buddies. First day he felt like riding in a long time. I was looking at the chemo calendar and got a little excited realizing I only have one more X to add. Can't wait until Tuesday, can't come quick enough.
Today Jeremy went for a motorcycle ride with some of his buddies. First day he felt like riding in a long time. I was looking at the chemo calendar and got a little excited realizing I only have one more X to add. Can't wait until Tuesday, can't come quick enough.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
One More Day
Only one more treatment to go! We are counting the moments until it is over. The petscan is next Thursday and the oncologist visit is onthe 16th. So we are in the "hurry up and wait" phase of this and as many of you know waiting (for test results, a new baby, Santa Claus) is the hardest part. Please pray for patience for our family as we wait the petscan results.
Jeremys treatment was quick yesterday, and he didn't make it out to the computer to write on the blog. I'm sure he will update when he goes next week. He has been in the best mood this week, even made dinner a couple of times and baked a cake. He did say that he feels like an old man because he goes to bed at 8:00 and he is tired all the time, I don't get what is so bad about the going to bed at 8 p.m. I thought that is what everyone does. He is trying to get well rested because the Father Son shoot at the Co-op is this week and it is both of my boys favorite days (one of them anyway), so here's hoping he is up to it.
Until later,
Jerm's mom
Jeremys treatment was quick yesterday, and he didn't make it out to the computer to write on the blog. I'm sure he will update when he goes next week. He has been in the best mood this week, even made dinner a couple of times and baked a cake. He did say that he feels like an old man because he goes to bed at 8:00 and he is tired all the time, I don't get what is so bad about the going to bed at 8 p.m. I thought that is what everyone does. He is trying to get well rested because the Father Son shoot at the Co-op is this week and it is both of my boys favorite days (one of them anyway), so here's hoping he is up to it.
Until later,
Jerm's mom
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
19 Down-2 to go
You don't know how long I have waited to say that........(BIG SMILE) Jerm's last long treatment was yesterday and what a day it was. New faces at the Center, and one big happy face in the middle of the center (that would be Jerm) because it was the last time he would be there for 8 hours. He has a short treatment tomorrow and his LAST treatment next week. His Petscan is scheduled for the 12th and he sees the Doctor on the 16th.
I know that every parent loves their child and is proud of their child (most of the time) and we have always thought our kid was amazing (MOST of the time) and yes, no matter how old they are they are still your child, your baby. But we think our kid is really something!!! He has handled all of this with such grace, dignity and for the most part his sense of humor has been intact. He has shared his story with others at the center, been gracious and respectful of others and I know he has prayed for every person that walks thru those doors. AND he has allowed me to take as many pictures of him as I want (ANOTHER BIG SMILE). I took pictures the day he had surgery, because if it turned out to be this was nothing I wanted a picture of him and if it turned out it was the beginning of something, I wanted to document every step of his journey so that he can look back and realized what he has accomplished.
So as we near the end of this journey (HUGE SMILE), I am counting the many blessings that have happened since March 13, the day Jerm had his surgery. They are not always easy to find, but they are there.
Jerm's mom
I know that every parent loves their child and is proud of their child (most of the time) and we have always thought our kid was amazing (MOST of the time) and yes, no matter how old they are they are still your child, your baby. But we think our kid is really something!!! He has handled all of this with such grace, dignity and for the most part his sense of humor has been intact. He has shared his story with others at the center, been gracious and respectful of others and I know he has prayed for every person that walks thru those doors. AND he has allowed me to take as many pictures of him as I want (ANOTHER BIG SMILE). I took pictures the day he had surgery, because if it turned out to be this was nothing I wanted a picture of him and if it turned out it was the beginning of something, I wanted to document every step of his journey so that he can look back and realized what he has accomplished.
So as we near the end of this journey (HUGE SMILE), I am counting the many blessings that have happened since March 13, the day Jerm had his surgery. They are not always easy to find, but they are there.
Jerm's mom
Sunday, June 1, 2008
This is the day the Lord has made!
We will rejoice and be glad in it!
And what a spectacular day it has been! Our day started off at Messiah for church to celebrate the church's 20 year anniversary. Pastor Liebich, who started Messiah 20 years ago was here from Florida to preach in celebration. It was like a family reunion seeing people we haven't seen in a long time. Jeremy's goal all week was to feel good enough to go to church today to hear Pastor Liebich and he did!!! Of course, getting out of church today took a little longer than usual, because many people wanted to talk to Jeremy and see how is doing. He was glad to catch up with some old friends and to meet some "new" friends he didn't know, but knew them by name because they have been praying for him and our whole family.
After church we went to lunch and introduced Jess to the all-you- can- eat buffet at Hometown Buffet. While Jeremy didn't eat as much as usual, he ate enough to be miserable.
Siteman Center had their Garden Party in the Garden of Hope today for survivors and their families. The Garden looked beautiful. Cindy, one of the nurses at Siteman has done amazing things with that garden, she is so talented. Jeremy wasn't up to going and to be honest that was ok, he got to go to church today and he has a full day of treatment tomorrow, so I would rather him be good for that. I did go with Marion, my mother-in-law who is a 25 year cancer survivor. We enjoyed it and met MANY inspirational people who shared their stories of survival. It is so good to know you are never alone on this walk, so many have done it before you, so many will do it after you. We met a woman who is a 38 year cancer survivor and another woman who is a one year survivor, diffrent by their ages and survival years but bonded because of their disease.
We will update tomorrow during his treatment. Until then.
And what a spectacular day it has been! Our day started off at Messiah for church to celebrate the church's 20 year anniversary. Pastor Liebich, who started Messiah 20 years ago was here from Florida to preach in celebration. It was like a family reunion seeing people we haven't seen in a long time. Jeremy's goal all week was to feel good enough to go to church today to hear Pastor Liebich and he did!!! Of course, getting out of church today took a little longer than usual, because many people wanted to talk to Jeremy and see how is doing. He was glad to catch up with some old friends and to meet some "new" friends he didn't know, but knew them by name because they have been praying for him and our whole family.
After church we went to lunch and introduced Jess to the all-you- can- eat buffet at Hometown Buffet. While Jeremy didn't eat as much as usual, he ate enough to be miserable.
Siteman Center had their Garden Party in the Garden of Hope today for survivors and their families. The Garden looked beautiful. Cindy, one of the nurses at Siteman has done amazing things with that garden, she is so talented. Jeremy wasn't up to going and to be honest that was ok, he got to go to church today and he has a full day of treatment tomorrow, so I would rather him be good for that. I did go with Marion, my mother-in-law who is a 25 year cancer survivor. We enjoyed it and met MANY inspirational people who shared their stories of survival. It is so good to know you are never alone on this walk, so many have done it before you, so many will do it after you. We met a woman who is a 38 year cancer survivor and another woman who is a one year survivor, diffrent by their ages and survival years but bonded because of their disease.
We will update tomorrow during his treatment. Until then.
Friday, May 30, 2008
Go CARDS!
Hello everyone, this is Schwank. I started to write a blog the other day and the computer stopped working on me. I started to write it again today and thought that it would be better saved until my treatments were over and we discovered my state.
I know that some of this sounds repetitive and maybe a little "blah", but you all have no idea how much you just reading this right now means to me and my family. You find out that people who don't even know you, care about you and are praying for you. You find out that friends you thought you would never see again are getting re-acquainted with you. Life goes on. People change. One thing remains the same and always has. God.
It is because of Him that we are all here. I know you may not talk to Him everyday and you don't see Him everyday. But He is ALWAYS with us! How comforting is it to know that the one that created us, has never left us, and never will? Not even on the cross!
Talk to you all next week!
Godspeed-Schwank
I know that some of this sounds repetitive and maybe a little "blah", but you all have no idea how much you just reading this right now means to me and my family. You find out that people who don't even know you, care about you and are praying for you. You find out that friends you thought you would never see again are getting re-acquainted with you. Life goes on. People change. One thing remains the same and always has. God.
It is because of Him that we are all here. I know you may not talk to Him everyday and you don't see Him everyday. But He is ALWAYS with us! How comforting is it to know that the one that created us, has never left us, and never will? Not even on the cross!
Talk to you all next week!
Godspeed-Schwank
Thursday, May 29, 2008
A surprise finding!
Jerm has been sleeping a lot lately at the Center. He slept yesterday for a couple of hours and today he slept several hours. So at least he is getting some sleep, he was absolutely wore out today. He was going to write on the blog today but the computer at Siteman wasn't working so he is hoping for tomorrow.
My brother Dale and my niece Maranda came to see him today! Jerm was really glad to see them! We always tease Jeremy because since he was little he has always said OOncle Dale. When they left today he said it was so good to see OOncle Dale, of course, we still tease him about that.
Dale was looking out at the Garden of Hope that Jerms chair overlooks and then he asked me, "Did you all ready buy a paver in his honor?' I said no, why, and he said someone did, it is right there, I got up and looked and I said, that is another Schwentker, that doesn't say Jeremy...BUT when I looked again, it did say Jeremy Schwentker. Jerm was too tired to look, so Maranda took my camera out to the patio and took a picture of it. I think Jeremy's guardian angel, a.k.a. Grandma Schwentker bought it. I don't know if she had anything to do with the placing of it or not, but it is in the perfect spot, right in front of his favorite chair. I don't know how long it has been there, but....anyway, I have never been accused of being real observant. I will write more tomorrow.
Jerm's mom
My brother Dale and my niece Maranda came to see him today! Jerm was really glad to see them! We always tease Jeremy because since he was little he has always said OOncle Dale. When they left today he said it was so good to see OOncle Dale, of course, we still tease him about that.
Dale was looking out at the Garden of Hope that Jerms chair overlooks and then he asked me, "Did you all ready buy a paver in his honor?' I said no, why, and he said someone did, it is right there, I got up and looked and I said, that is another Schwentker, that doesn't say Jeremy...BUT when I looked again, it did say Jeremy Schwentker. Jerm was too tired to look, so Maranda took my camera out to the patio and took a picture of it. I think Jeremy's guardian angel, a.k.a. Grandma Schwentker bought it. I don't know if she had anything to do with the placing of it or not, but it is in the perfect spot, right in front of his favorite chair. I don't know how long it has been there, but....anyway, I have never been accused of being real observant. I will write more tomorrow.
Jerm's mom
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Is this a Bakery???
First, if you're wondering why the previous post is empty, it is because Jeremy wrote things to go under it, took about a half hour to write and he couldn't get it to go thru, oh well, there's always tomorrow.
Yesterday Grandma brought up some of her famous creme filled cupcakes for the cast & crew at Siteman and they were pretty much gone before we left last night. Today Aunt Missy brought up some homemade cinnamon rolls, smores and a Strawberry Cake to share. I think the Siteman Center's sweet tooth is definitely full. For a while it looked like a bakery today, because I had brought in a Pastry Ring from Bread Co. and someone else had made brownies. YUM!
Jeremy actually slept for a couple of hours today, which he never does. I think the mental exhaustion can be more demanding than the physical exhaustion. For weeks we are always telling him to take a nap, he doesn't sleep much the evenings of his full week of treatments, and today he did. We let him know we are not there to be entertained, but to be with him...but I guess after 7 continuous weeks of seeing our smiling faces, he has become a little bored. Honestly I am glad he slept because at least that is two hours of sleep he will have if he doesn't sleep tonight.
This morning when I got to the Center, I saw a couple of familiar faces there. Not just the nurses...who I don't know if I have ever mentioned this before, we LOVE, but some faces I knew before. Pastor Christiansen, who has filled in at our church, Messiah, was there for a treatment today. He was diagnosed with lymphoma 2 years ago. He told me today that he won't die from it, but he will die with it. He is doing great and said that for an occasional bad day, he feels very good.
I also saw Carol Peterson. She is also from my church, Messiah and she is being treated for breast cancer. I think I have mentioned her before, she is a young mother of three and she is amazing. I had her son Evan in my class and I have always liked her, but I totally am in awe of how well she is and how good her spirits are and how amazing she is. Of course, I had my camera and of course I had to get a picture of her, but she understood, she's a cropper too.
I met another amazing woman today. Her name is Kathy and her husband Brian is fighting lung cancer. I have seen Kathy and Brian at the center before, and have just spoken to them in passing. Today we talked for a long time. Her grace and courage in the uncertainty of her husbands illness is nothing short of inspirational. They have 3 children: ages 18-23, I think, although I must say they do not look like they could have children that old. I was reminded today after we talked about how cancer effects everyone, not just the patient. It is weird how the things that were so important one day can loose all their meaning with a diagnosis of cancer. Kathy has refocused her whole life on getting her husband better. Taking care of your loved one becomes your job, your full time job. I see it with Jess all the time, while we spend as much time as we can with Jerm, Jess is really his full time caregiver, it's a job she does well, very well and for that we are so very thankful.
As I close this I would ask that you keep all the above mentioned in your prayers. I know I will pray for the patients and their caregivers. Until tomorrow.
Jerms mom
Yesterday Grandma brought up some of her famous creme filled cupcakes for the cast & crew at Siteman and they were pretty much gone before we left last night. Today Aunt Missy brought up some homemade cinnamon rolls, smores and a Strawberry Cake to share. I think the Siteman Center's sweet tooth is definitely full. For a while it looked like a bakery today, because I had brought in a Pastry Ring from Bread Co. and someone else had made brownies. YUM!
Jeremy actually slept for a couple of hours today, which he never does. I think the mental exhaustion can be more demanding than the physical exhaustion. For weeks we are always telling him to take a nap, he doesn't sleep much the evenings of his full week of treatments, and today he did. We let him know we are not there to be entertained, but to be with him...but I guess after 7 continuous weeks of seeing our smiling faces, he has become a little bored. Honestly I am glad he slept because at least that is two hours of sleep he will have if he doesn't sleep tonight.
This morning when I got to the Center, I saw a couple of familiar faces there. Not just the nurses...who I don't know if I have ever mentioned this before, we LOVE, but some faces I knew before. Pastor Christiansen, who has filled in at our church, Messiah, was there for a treatment today. He was diagnosed with lymphoma 2 years ago. He told me today that he won't die from it, but he will die with it. He is doing great and said that for an occasional bad day, he feels very good.
I also saw Carol Peterson. She is also from my church, Messiah and she is being treated for breast cancer. I think I have mentioned her before, she is a young mother of three and she is amazing. I had her son Evan in my class and I have always liked her, but I totally am in awe of how well she is and how good her spirits are and how amazing she is. Of course, I had my camera and of course I had to get a picture of her, but she understood, she's a cropper too.
I met another amazing woman today. Her name is Kathy and her husband Brian is fighting lung cancer. I have seen Kathy and Brian at the center before, and have just spoken to them in passing. Today we talked for a long time. Her grace and courage in the uncertainty of her husbands illness is nothing short of inspirational. They have 3 children: ages 18-23, I think, although I must say they do not look like they could have children that old. I was reminded today after we talked about how cancer effects everyone, not just the patient. It is weird how the things that were so important one day can loose all their meaning with a diagnosis of cancer. Kathy has refocused her whole life on getting her husband better. Taking care of your loved one becomes your job, your full time job. I see it with Jess all the time, while we spend as much time as we can with Jerm, Jess is really his full time caregiver, it's a job she does well, very well and for that we are so very thankful.
As I close this I would ask that you keep all the above mentioned in your prayers. I know I will pray for the patients and their caregivers. Until tomorrow.
Jerms mom
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
HELL WEEK...has begun...
It is OFFICIAL! IT IS HERE! HELL WEEK!
Let me just say, it made me smile today when the words out of Dr. Pluards mouth were, "your bloodwork looks good, and we are going to finish (chemotherapy) as scheduled!" WOOHOO!! I get my PET Scan on the 12th of June and have my Dr's appointment the Monday following to find out how well my chemo went. I know that it's working thanks to the prayers of many and the healing hands of the wonderful nurses here at Siteman.
About an hour ago, my nurse came back and asked if she could have a young man who was just diagnosed with testicular cancer come back and talk to me. Of course that was fine. As I shook his hand it occurred to me that I knew this individual from a looonnnggg time ago. It was a man, who's sister I grew up with in grade school at Zion! Small world?...Fate?...God thing...absolutely!
God doesn't give us what we want on a Silver Platter. God gives us opportunities to be the Miracle and to see the Miracle in others. It is your choice to do something with the opportunities he gives us. Sometimes, opportunities don't seem like something positive at all, but it is in those times that God is shining the spotlight on that opportunity so that you can reach out, grab it, and be a Miracle! Sometimes, it's a wave to a neighbor, holding the door open at the gas station, or writing wonderful messages on this blog, whatever it is, others see it, I see it in all of you. You all continue to be in our prayers!
Godspeed-SCHWANK
Let me just say, it made me smile today when the words out of Dr. Pluards mouth were, "your bloodwork looks good, and we are going to finish (chemotherapy) as scheduled!" WOOHOO!! I get my PET Scan on the 12th of June and have my Dr's appointment the Monday following to find out how well my chemo went. I know that it's working thanks to the prayers of many and the healing hands of the wonderful nurses here at Siteman.
About an hour ago, my nurse came back and asked if she could have a young man who was just diagnosed with testicular cancer come back and talk to me. Of course that was fine. As I shook his hand it occurred to me that I knew this individual from a looonnnggg time ago. It was a man, who's sister I grew up with in grade school at Zion! Small world?...Fate?...God thing...absolutely!
God doesn't give us what we want on a Silver Platter. God gives us opportunities to be the Miracle and to see the Miracle in others. It is your choice to do something with the opportunities he gives us. Sometimes, opportunities don't seem like something positive at all, but it is in those times that God is shining the spotlight on that opportunity so that you can reach out, grab it, and be a Miracle! Sometimes, it's a wave to a neighbor, holding the door open at the gas station, or writing wonderful messages on this blog, whatever it is, others see it, I see it in all of you. You all continue to be in our prayers!
Godspeed-SCHWANK
Monday, May 26, 2008
The Light at the end of the Tunnel
My computer was down for a few days and we were out of town and when I checked my email, several people wanted to know why there hasn't been any news. Now you know and I am sorry about that. Tomorrow starts the third (and hopefully last) full week of treatments. As you know Jeremy affectionately calls this week "Hell" week.
Jeremy has been doing pretty well the past two treatments, he did get sick on Thursday, not sure what that was all about, but he felt better the next day. His energy level is low, has been for weeks, and that is the thing that gets him the most. If he has one good day, he takes advantage of it and then pays for it the next week or so.
So this is to let all of you know that we will be back on our (pretty) regular schedule of updating the blog. I would ask that you keep Jeremy in your prayers, especially around Thursday, that is when he feels his worst and it takes a while to bounce back.
Jerms mom
Jeremy has been doing pretty well the past two treatments, he did get sick on Thursday, not sure what that was all about, but he felt better the next day. His energy level is low, has been for weeks, and that is the thing that gets him the most. If he has one good day, he takes advantage of it and then pays for it the next week or so.
So this is to let all of you know that we will be back on our (pretty) regular schedule of updating the blog. I would ask that you keep Jeremy in your prayers, especially around Thursday, that is when he feels his worst and it takes a while to bounce back.
Jerms mom
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
The Halfway Mark
Today's treatment is over:) As far as treatments go, it was pretty painless. And he is officially past the halfway point. His counts were up today, good news. We went to breakfast afterward and Jeremy ate a good breakfast, the most he has eaten in several days. He is still feeling pretty crummy, but feels better than he has since last week. Sleep is still an issue, or lack of sleep. The sleeping medicine that has been prescribed for him helps him fall asleep, but he doesn't stay asleep. He is trying something new tonight so here's hoping it works.
I think one of the most frustrating things for Jerm right now is his lack of strength and how tired he is. The things he has always taken care of, he can't and that makes him mad. He mowed his grass on Saturday and he said he thought he was going to pass out. Needless to say he got a long lecture about letting others do things for him, so he can keep his strength up. When the everyday and mundane things of life get to be hard, it is just a reminder of what this disease (and its treatment) can do to you. But that is why God blesses each of us with family and friends who are willing to, WANT to do things for the people who care about us. It is humbling for him and hard for him to let others do that, so I am praying he accepts it for what it is and lets others take care of things. He has become a fan of daytime tv (not by choice) and has watched nearly every movie out right now.
I am reminded of all the people I know who have faced hard times in their lives and are stronger for it. I have two friends that are fighting cancer right now, Carol Peterson, a young mother of three who is fighting breast cancer and Don Wehmeyer, who is being treated for lymphoma, not to mention all the faces I see at Siteman every day. And I am reminded that Jeremy is not alone.. His Grandma Schwentker is herself a 25 year cancer survivor and endured 18 months of chemotherapy and she inspires and encourages him all the time. Then, there's my friend Jennifer who lost her son Arron almost three years ago in a car accident. She, and all these people, are living proof that you can't face difficulties all alone, there's no way to do it without God putting his arms around us and carrying you. It really is the peace that passes human understanding. It is the love that he gives us via family, friends AND oncology nurses. He guides those who are guiding us and we are all the better for it.
I think one of the most frustrating things for Jerm right now is his lack of strength and how tired he is. The things he has always taken care of, he can't and that makes him mad. He mowed his grass on Saturday and he said he thought he was going to pass out. Needless to say he got a long lecture about letting others do things for him, so he can keep his strength up. When the everyday and mundane things of life get to be hard, it is just a reminder of what this disease (and its treatment) can do to you. But that is why God blesses each of us with family and friends who are willing to, WANT to do things for the people who care about us. It is humbling for him and hard for him to let others do that, so I am praying he accepts it for what it is and lets others take care of things. He has become a fan of daytime tv (not by choice) and has watched nearly every movie out right now.
I am reminded of all the people I know who have faced hard times in their lives and are stronger for it. I have two friends that are fighting cancer right now, Carol Peterson, a young mother of three who is fighting breast cancer and Don Wehmeyer, who is being treated for lymphoma, not to mention all the faces I see at Siteman every day. And I am reminded that Jeremy is not alone.. His Grandma Schwentker is herself a 25 year cancer survivor and endured 18 months of chemotherapy and she inspires and encourages him all the time. Then, there's my friend Jennifer who lost her son Arron almost three years ago in a car accident. She, and all these people, are living proof that you can't face difficulties all alone, there's no way to do it without God putting his arms around us and carrying you. It really is the peace that passes human understanding. It is the love that he gives us via family, friends AND oncology nurses. He guides those who are guiding us and we are all the better for it.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
It's Mothers Day!
It was blustery when I woke up this morning and I thought "This can't be Mother's Day, it feels like winter." Crazy.
Our usual tradition on Mothers Day is to head to the winery, but with the weather the way it was, we couldn't take a chance on Jeremy getting sick, so we had our winery day at his home. Jess made some great food, and we had some great wine, and we were so much warmer than we would have been in Augusta.
Mothers Day is one of my favorite days of the year, not because I like everything to be all about me (well, I do...but) but because I love being with my family, it is my favorite place to be, wherever they are. Jerm spent a lot of this day in bed, he would get up for a while and visit and then lay down for a little while. His treatments are starting to take a toll on him, however, for as many treatments as he has had, he is doing amazing. He apologized to me a few times and I think that he really doesn't understand that he didn't have to entertain me today, just being with him on this day was enough for me. I have told him that every year. That is what being a mom is, raising your children, so that when they are grown, you can lay the guilt ....oops I mean, they want to spend time with you. I would say that the last few years have brought us closer together, there have been a lot of changes in our lives. We have learned that the one constant we have is each other. I think we were being prepared for this little "bump in the road."
As corny as it sounds, and everything I write and think these days is just a hair away from being a Hallmark card, I am grateful for our son, just being with him today and thru his whole journey. He amazes us with his strength & grace and that is the best gift of all.
Happy Mothers Day!
Jerm's mom
Our usual tradition on Mothers Day is to head to the winery, but with the weather the way it was, we couldn't take a chance on Jeremy getting sick, so we had our winery day at his home. Jess made some great food, and we had some great wine, and we were so much warmer than we would have been in Augusta.
Mothers Day is one of my favorite days of the year, not because I like everything to be all about me (well, I do...but) but because I love being with my family, it is my favorite place to be, wherever they are. Jerm spent a lot of this day in bed, he would get up for a while and visit and then lay down for a little while. His treatments are starting to take a toll on him, however, for as many treatments as he has had, he is doing amazing. He apologized to me a few times and I think that he really doesn't understand that he didn't have to entertain me today, just being with him on this day was enough for me. I have told him that every year. That is what being a mom is, raising your children, so that when they are grown, you can lay the guilt ....oops I mean, they want to spend time with you. I would say that the last few years have brought us closer together, there have been a lot of changes in our lives. We have learned that the one constant we have is each other. I think we were being prepared for this little "bump in the road."
As corny as it sounds, and everything I write and think these days is just a hair away from being a Hallmark card, I am grateful for our son, just being with him today and thru his whole journey. He amazes us with his strength & grace and that is the best gift of all.
Happy Mothers Day!
Jerm's mom
Friday, May 9, 2008
TGIF
I have always liked Fridays, always been my favorite day of the week. But this Friday, I really like. Jeremy's treatments are over for the week and now he has 4 days to regroup until Tuesday, and that is a short treatment. Thank God for small favors. As I have stated before, this week was a little tough for Jerm. I think the full week of treatments drain him emotionally as well as physically, he said last night was the worst he has felt and yesterday he said the night before was so I am glad it is over for the week.
Fridays are pretty quiet at Siteman, just a couple of people in and out. It is a far cry from this past Monday, there were MANY people coming in and that place stays hopping on certain days. There have been days when we see more than 20 people come in and out for treatment during the time he is there.It seems like the nurses barely get time to eat lunch, but they are an amazing bunch those nurses. Actually everyone at Siteman is pretty amazing, they take a really bad situation and help make it so much more bearable. I am so thankful for each and everyone of them.
Thanks for your prayers this week, Thursday & friday are hard to get thru but made so much more easier from the love, support and prayers of all of you.
Fridays are pretty quiet at Siteman, just a couple of people in and out. It is a far cry from this past Monday, there were MANY people coming in and that place stays hopping on certain days. There have been days when we see more than 20 people come in and out for treatment during the time he is there.It seems like the nurses barely get time to eat lunch, but they are an amazing bunch those nurses. Actually everyone at Siteman is pretty amazing, they take a really bad situation and help make it so much more bearable. I am so thankful for each and everyone of them.
Thanks for your prayers this week, Thursday & friday are hard to get thru but made so much more easier from the love, support and prayers of all of you.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
When the going gets tough.....
the tough get going! Hope that's true. Jerm is not feeling like himself the last couple of days. Last night (Wed.) was not good for him and I think tonight is a little worse. The GOOD news is he just has tomorrow and then he is done with what we "affectionately" call Hell week. We had a quiet day today, when Jess left for work it was just him & I and then his dad came up on his lunch hour. I think he likes an occasional day like that...and who wouldn't enjoy being forced to spend time with their parents at the age of 27????????
Mother's Day is Sunday and more than ever I am grateful for the gift of our son. There is no love as strong, as neverending, as unconditional as a parent's love. And I am reminded that, thru all of this, no matter how much me & his daddy love him, Jeremy is loved so much more by our heavenly Father. It is what gives us hope, gives us strength. AND more importantly, gives us peace...when things get a little rocky.
Mother's Day is Sunday and more than ever I am grateful for the gift of our son. There is no love as strong, as neverending, as unconditional as a parent's love. And I am reminded that, thru all of this, no matter how much me & his daddy love him, Jeremy is loved so much more by our heavenly Father. It is what gives us hope, gives us strength. AND more importantly, gives us peace...when things get a little rocky.
Dreary Thursday...
Good Morning Everyone! It is finally Thursday. One more day of "hell" this week. Been getting nauseated in the evenings but still have been blessed to not have gotten sick. My nurse told me today that she is suprised that I haven't. She told me that usually the men who take my "cocktail" have gotten sick by now. Which is pretty much the same thing the Dr. told me. He told me I would lose weight, get sick, and lose my hair. So far, I have lost my hair, GAINED weight, and feel as good as to be expected. Really not happy about the gaining weight thing, however, it's better that I eat too daggum much than not eat at all!...at least that's what I'm telling myself.
I was suprised to see all the comments that people have left and I want to thank each of you for taking time out of your busy lives to write down a few words. Especially to those who I have not talked to in a while or who I've never talked to before. It's good to hear your words of support. Mom is sitting with me today. I think of my sheer boredom and then I think, Jess, Mom, and Grandma, who sit with me every week, must be REALLY Bored! Although I know that they would all rather be here than at work. Talk to you all soon.
Godspeed-Schwank
I was suprised to see all the comments that people have left and I want to thank each of you for taking time out of your busy lives to write down a few words. Especially to those who I have not talked to in a while or who I've never talked to before. It's good to hear your words of support. Mom is sitting with me today. I think of my sheer boredom and then I think, Jess, Mom, and Grandma, who sit with me every week, must be REALLY Bored! Although I know that they would all rather be here than at work. Talk to you all soon.
Godspeed-Schwank
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
It's Tuesday!!
Hello and Good Afternoon to all who are reading this blog thing. I want to encourage you all to write messages because it helps me kill a little time during my 7-hour days here at Siteman. I know that there are several of you who are trying to write messages and it's just not working. PLEASE KEEP TRYING!
The bald thing is in. I've known that for a while. I encourage those of you that are thinking about getting a new "do" or are showing signs of thinning hair (i.e. balding), buy yourself some clippers and shave it. You'll look and feel much better. Plus, you can finally be like me!...not really but I had to show my mother that I am a humble individual! :)
Twelve (12) more treatments left. June 10th can't get here soon enough but how great a day that will be. I can't wait! Talk to you all soon!
Godspeed-Schwank
The bald thing is in. I've known that for a while. I encourage those of you that are thinking about getting a new "do" or are showing signs of thinning hair (i.e. balding), buy yourself some clippers and shave it. You'll look and feel much better. Plus, you can finally be like me!...not really but I had to show my mother that I am a humble individual! :)
Twelve (12) more treatments left. June 10th can't get here soon enough but how great a day that will be. I can't wait! Talk to you all soon!
Godspeed-Schwank
Monday, May 5, 2008
Like Son, Like Father
Jeremy had an interesting day of treatment today. He didn't get in to see the doctor right away so he got a later start than he would like...and you know it is all about him:) Anyway, after he got started and situated, the Siteman Center lost power today. It was out several hours and Jerm said it was getting a little toasty in there this afternoon. He had several visitors today and that made the very long day go a little quicker. Jess got him ice cream this afternoon and that helped a lot. She also got ice cream for the nurses. I tell you, I think it takes someone special to be an oncology nurse and the ones at Siteman are the most special there are. They have been wonderful to our whole family, especially Donna, she is like one of the family. It gives me great comfort to know that the patients who are there are getting the best of care, can't say enough good things about them.
I am adding a new picture of my boys! After Jeremy lost his hair, Jerry came home and shaved his head clean. It took all of two minutes but he was so happy to have the same "do" as his son.
Tomorrow is another treatment. I am praying that Jerms attitude stays upbeat.
Jerms mom
I am adding a new picture of my boys! After Jeremy lost his hair, Jerry came home and shaved his head clean. It took all of two minutes but he was so happy to have the same "do" as his son.
Tomorrow is another treatment. I am praying that Jerms attitude stays upbeat.
Jerms mom
Friday, May 2, 2008
I'm losing my hair!
Not that it's a shock cause I have been losing my hair since I was 16...thanks Dad. Today, I woke up to find that half my hair was on my pillow and no longer on my head! I was expecting it to go last week and it didn't. I started to think "Maybe it won't fall out after all"...WRONG! Jess and I started pulling out chunks which was actually quite fun. I decided to shave it bald and scrub out the rest in the shower. Believe it or not, I have wanted to be bald since college when I got a "wild hair" up my rear to "bic" my head. Which was right after I dyed it black...(no idea what I was thinking, someone probably forced me to drink beer the night before because I never willingly drank beer in college cause that was illegal...its true Mom :)
Just thought I would let everyone know that I am doing well. Yard work yesterday and Cardinals/Cubs game tonight. Pastor Schlie...Miracles do happen...I hope the Cubbies don't use there's up tonight.
The guys at work chipped in and got me a sweet Harley Davidson picnic bag to put on my motorcycle when I go riding. They also filled it with a bunch of healthy food, like Snickers, Twinkies, nuts, and Rice Krispie Treats. All the things a good cop keeps on his diet. :)
Next week is my 2nd long week, one week closer to the end. I want to thank everyone for your thoughts, prayers, cards, and meals. To those who I don't know but you know my parents...YOU ARE ALL AWESOME PEOPLE! It is because of you that my parents are being strong. I pray for you all daily.
Like I have said before, the power of prayer is amazing. Thankyou has never meant so much to me and my family and I hope you all know that. Until next week...
Godspeed-Schwank
Just thought I would let everyone know that I am doing well. Yard work yesterday and Cardinals/Cubs game tonight. Pastor Schlie...Miracles do happen...I hope the Cubbies don't use there's up tonight.
The guys at work chipped in and got me a sweet Harley Davidson picnic bag to put on my motorcycle when I go riding. They also filled it with a bunch of healthy food, like Snickers, Twinkies, nuts, and Rice Krispie Treats. All the things a good cop keeps on his diet. :)
Next week is my 2nd long week, one week closer to the end. I want to thank everyone for your thoughts, prayers, cards, and meals. To those who I don't know but you know my parents...YOU ARE ALL AWESOME PEOPLE! It is because of you that my parents are being strong. I pray for you all daily.
Like I have said before, the power of prayer is amazing. Thankyou has never meant so much to me and my family and I hope you all know that. Until next week...
Godspeed-Schwank
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
X marks the spot
I have drawn my last X on April's calendar and we are moving onto May. Jerm had his "booster" shot this morning and is done for this week. His white count was down a little, which Cindy, the nurse, said is normal after the amount of treatments he has had. One of the numbers, and I am not sure what it is, is down to #1, they do not want it to go down any further than that because it means that Jeremy will be more susceptible to illness and infection, so we are praying that his numbers go up. He plans on going to work tomorrow.
Next week is his full week again. It's my prayer that he continues to do as well as he is and that his spirits stay high. You might want to say an extra little prayer on Thursday & Friday next week, because those are the days that I think are hardest for him, because he realizes what he is actually doing and he is physically and emotionally drained by then. A few bible words have come up this week that I think are worth repeating,(of course, I think all bible words are worth repeating), but these 2 came up a couple of times this week.
The first is from Romans8:28;"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." This is one of our favorite verses, and one I read several times a day. Jess had a plaque made for Jeremy with those words on it to plant next to a "victory" tree in his yard. She had the date his cancer was diagnosed so that when the tree is grown and in full bloom, it will remind of him of how far he has come.
Someone gave me a plaque this week with Psalm 100:5 on it "The Lord is good and His love endures forever." That is such an assurance of how good He is....thru everything good and bad, He is with us and that no matter what happens His love will never be taken from us.
Finally, I want to tell you that Jeremy loves reading the comments people leave. He will have access to a computer next week when he is at Siteman so he will be reading more often. To leave a comment, just click on comment at the bottom of the posting and then it will take you to a diffrent screen, then just follow the directions.
Have a great week.
The Schwentker Family
Next week is his full week again. It's my prayer that he continues to do as well as he is and that his spirits stay high. You might want to say an extra little prayer on Thursday & Friday next week, because those are the days that I think are hardest for him, because he realizes what he is actually doing and he is physically and emotionally drained by then. A few bible words have come up this week that I think are worth repeating,(of course, I think all bible words are worth repeating), but these 2 came up a couple of times this week.
The first is from Romans8:28;"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." This is one of our favorite verses, and one I read several times a day. Jess had a plaque made for Jeremy with those words on it to plant next to a "victory" tree in his yard. She had the date his cancer was diagnosed so that when the tree is grown and in full bloom, it will remind of him of how far he has come.
Someone gave me a plaque this week with Psalm 100:5 on it "The Lord is good and His love endures forever." That is such an assurance of how good He is....thru everything good and bad, He is with us and that no matter what happens His love will never be taken from us.
Finally, I want to tell you that Jeremy loves reading the comments people leave. He will have access to a computer next week when he is at Siteman so he will be reading more often. To leave a comment, just click on comment at the bottom of the posting and then it will take you to a diffrent screen, then just follow the directions.
Have a great week.
The Schwentker Family
Monday, April 28, 2008
Disclaimer
No animals were harmed during the taking of these photographs...they were, however, horribly embarrassed, as was the birthday boy.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Happy Birthday Jeremy!
Today is Jeremy's birthday! His 27th birthday! I never feel old until I realize how old my "baby" is. It goes without saying what our wish for Jerm is on this day, good health, good life, long life, joy, peace and faith. We are all having a birthday dinner at the cabin today.
Once Jeremy moved out of the house, birthdays didn't seem as important as they once did. We still give gifts, sing Happy Birthday, but it was not really a celebration anymore. I have definitely changed my mind about that! I bought party hats, party horns and a birthday banner. Jeremy is going to hate, but I will love it. The celebration of the day, his life, the joy he brings to the two people who love him like no other, that is something worth celebrating.
Last year, Jerm had several people over to his apartment for dinner on his birthday and before Jerry and I left the party, I went downstairs and stood below his balcony and at the top of my lungs I serenaded my boy with Happy Birthday. Much to his horror, I then sang our song that I have sang to him forever....Love you up to the Moon! Needless to say, many thought I was drinking, but no alcohol was involved. I think Jerm knows thats just me! But this year more than ever the words to our song ring true....
I love you up to the moon
I love you big as the sky
I love to watch you when you sleep
I love to hold you when you cry.
One day when your older
And taller than me
I'll say I watched you grow
Like a beautiful tree.
I love you up to the moon
I love you big as the sky
You'll always be my little man
I love you the best that a mama can.
And one day if you rise up
And call me blessed
I'll say it was a joy
To give you my best.
I love you up to the moon
I love you big as the sky.
Once Jeremy moved out of the house, birthdays didn't seem as important as they once did. We still give gifts, sing Happy Birthday, but it was not really a celebration anymore. I have definitely changed my mind about that! I bought party hats, party horns and a birthday banner. Jeremy is going to hate, but I will love it. The celebration of the day, his life, the joy he brings to the two people who love him like no other, that is something worth celebrating.
Last year, Jerm had several people over to his apartment for dinner on his birthday and before Jerry and I left the party, I went downstairs and stood below his balcony and at the top of my lungs I serenaded my boy with Happy Birthday. Much to his horror, I then sang our song that I have sang to him forever....Love you up to the Moon! Needless to say, many thought I was drinking, but no alcohol was involved. I think Jerm knows thats just me! But this year more than ever the words to our song ring true....
I love you up to the moon
I love you big as the sky
I love to watch you when you sleep
I love to hold you when you cry.
One day when your older
And taller than me
I'll say I watched you grow
Like a beautiful tree.
I love you up to the moon
I love you big as the sky
You'll always be my little man
I love you the best that a mama can.
And one day if you rise up
And call me blessed
I'll say it was a joy
To give you my best.
I love you up to the moon
I love you big as the sky.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Random Thoughts
I start with good news today! Jeremy's friend, Jason, who has lymphoma, is in remission!! Good news, GREAT news, we are so thankful. Thanks to those of you who have been praying for him.
More great news! Jeremy went to work yesterday. He felt great and I think it was so good for him to be at work and forget about things for a while, of course, a burger at Big Bear helped his cause. And another motorcycle ride!
I was making a list of things to do today, I keep a list on the fridge, because when you are my age, you tend to forget things. As I went to remove my list from the fridge to edit, I glanced down at the other papers that are on there (it is Command Central), and I saw THE calendar. The first day of treatment, Jeremy was given a calendar of all his treatments, doctors appts., etc. Jess made us each a copy, it is how we coordinate times, who will be driving, who will be spending time with Jerm. I mark off everyday that his treatment is over. It has 6 X's on it, and I thought to myself, it will be so exciting when there are more X's than treatments. It is the little things in life that excite me.
It is kind of amazing how things that were so important to you one day can loose all it's meaning the next. I choose to believe that is God tapping on my shoulder saying, "Val, in the scheme of things, does it matter if your house is spotless?" I personally love it when I hear that because I have never had a spotless house. Cancer has effected our lives in ways I can't tell you, and I am not the one being treated, but it does effect everyone who loves someone. I have met some amazing people so far in this endeavor and people I didn't even know cared about us, have been awesome to us.
I am a Stephen's Minister thru our church. My fellow Stephen's people are a caring bunch (guess that's why they are Stephens Ministers) and at our meeting Tuesday night they gave me a gift to give to Jeremy, but it ended up being a gift for our whole family. They made a blanket for Jeremy to cover up with at treatments (believe it or not, he gets chilly there). The blanket is beautiful, but it is what they did over the blanket that makes it special beautiful.. Each one of those wonderful people took the time to pray over that blanket, did you hear that? They prayed over that blanket, so that when Jerm is wrapping himself in that blanket, he is wrapping himself in prayers of peace, comfort, healing and love. It is THE MOST BEAUTIFUL BLANKET I have ever seen. And I know I have said it a million times, but God is so good to us, not because of the things we have, but because of the people we have in our lives.
Jerm's mom
More great news! Jeremy went to work yesterday. He felt great and I think it was so good for him to be at work and forget about things for a while, of course, a burger at Big Bear helped his cause. And another motorcycle ride!
I was making a list of things to do today, I keep a list on the fridge, because when you are my age, you tend to forget things. As I went to remove my list from the fridge to edit, I glanced down at the other papers that are on there (it is Command Central), and I saw THE calendar. The first day of treatment, Jeremy was given a calendar of all his treatments, doctors appts., etc. Jess made us each a copy, it is how we coordinate times, who will be driving, who will be spending time with Jerm. I mark off everyday that his treatment is over. It has 6 X's on it, and I thought to myself, it will be so exciting when there are more X's than treatments. It is the little things in life that excite me.
It is kind of amazing how things that were so important to you one day can loose all it's meaning the next. I choose to believe that is God tapping on my shoulder saying, "Val, in the scheme of things, does it matter if your house is spotless?" I personally love it when I hear that because I have never had a spotless house. Cancer has effected our lives in ways I can't tell you, and I am not the one being treated, but it does effect everyone who loves someone. I have met some amazing people so far in this endeavor and people I didn't even know cared about us, have been awesome to us.
I am a Stephen's Minister thru our church. My fellow Stephen's people are a caring bunch (guess that's why they are Stephens Ministers) and at our meeting Tuesday night they gave me a gift to give to Jeremy, but it ended up being a gift for our whole family. They made a blanket for Jeremy to cover up with at treatments (believe it or not, he gets chilly there). The blanket is beautiful, but it is what they did over the blanket that makes it special beautiful.. Each one of those wonderful people took the time to pray over that blanket, did you hear that? They prayed over that blanket, so that when Jerm is wrapping himself in that blanket, he is wrapping himself in prayers of peace, comfort, healing and love. It is THE MOST BEAUTIFUL BLANKET I have ever seen. And I know I have said it a million times, but God is so good to us, not because of the things we have, but because of the people we have in our lives.
Jerm's mom
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Short but Sweet!
Jeremy got an early birthday present this week (his birthday is this Friday, April 25). His lab work today was good, his white count is good and his treatment only lasted an hour today! That's a great day in his book.
He got to see the other favorite women in his life, the nurses at Siteman, and that was good too. We went to eat afterwards and stopped and got a couple of movies. When I took him home, I think he was ready to be on his own today. It is wierd because I don't want to leave and I don't want to smother him. I want to be there as much as he needs me and I want him to be on his own so that he is not continuosly reminded that he has cancer (not like he could ever forget).
Fatigue is Jerm's biggest side effect so far. He likes to go all the time, so that has been pretty hard for him, but like he said if that's the worst thing that happens, he can deal with that. He has had a couple of bouts of nausea, but even that has not as bad as it could be.
Everyone has been so great to our family. I am reminded of the bible verse from Phillipians 1:3
"I thank my God everytime I remember you."
Know that each of you are in our thoughts and we are so grateful for all of you.
Jerm's mom
He got to see the other favorite women in his life, the nurses at Siteman, and that was good too. We went to eat afterwards and stopped and got a couple of movies. When I took him home, I think he was ready to be on his own today. It is wierd because I don't want to leave and I don't want to smother him. I want to be there as much as he needs me and I want him to be on his own so that he is not continuosly reminded that he has cancer (not like he could ever forget).
Fatigue is Jerm's biggest side effect so far. He likes to go all the time, so that has been pretty hard for him, but like he said if that's the worst thing that happens, he can deal with that. He has had a couple of bouts of nausea, but even that has not as bad as it could be.
Everyone has been so great to our family. I am reminded of the bible verse from Phillipians 1:3
"I thank my God everytime I remember you."
Know that each of you are in our thoughts and we are so grateful for all of you.
Jerm's mom
Sunday, April 20, 2008
This Good Day
Hi everyone,
Just a quick note to tell you that today was the best day Jerm has had this week. His spirits were great. He got to ride his motorcyle, then him & I went and had pizza @ Stephanina's in Wentzville and since it was so beautiful we headed to the cabin to spend some time with Jerry. My two boys were bonding over fishing, it is wierd how men bond...few words, quiet time hanging on to a pole waiting for a fish to bite that they throw back in....I don't get it, where is the chocolate, where is the chatter, where are the...oh well, I digress and I sat there thanking God for this really good day, watching my boys, thanking God for the day and this time to spend together, thanking God one week is over, thanking God Jerm is not as sick as he could be, thanking God for the friends and family who have rallied around us...just being, watching and thanking Him. I was thinking of the song by Casting crowns called Praise You in this Storm. That is what I did on this beautiful, calm day.
Jeremy's next treatment is Tuesday, it will be a short treatment, maybe an hour. Will post later in the week.
Just a quick note to tell you that today was the best day Jerm has had this week. His spirits were great. He got to ride his motorcyle, then him & I went and had pizza @ Stephanina's in Wentzville and since it was so beautiful we headed to the cabin to spend some time with Jerry. My two boys were bonding over fishing, it is wierd how men bond...few words, quiet time hanging on to a pole waiting for a fish to bite that they throw back in....I don't get it, where is the chocolate, where is the chatter, where are the...oh well, I digress and I sat there thanking God for this really good day, watching my boys, thanking God for the day and this time to spend together, thanking God one week is over, thanking God Jerm is not as sick as he could be, thanking God for the friends and family who have rallied around us...just being, watching and thanking Him. I was thinking of the song by Casting crowns called Praise You in this Storm. That is what I did on this beautiful, calm day.
Jeremy's next treatment is Tuesday, it will be a short treatment, maybe an hour. Will post later in the week.
Friday, April 18, 2008
What a Beautiful Day!
Yes, It may be raining and a little chilly outside, but it is a Beautiful Day! This is another day that the Lord has blessed us with on His Earth...AND this is my LAST DAY OF TREATMENT THIS WEEK!!!! 5 down,16 more to go.
I want to thank all of you who have taken time to read this or who have thought about my family and I during this time. Like Deb wrote, it is the family that battles through the cancer, not just the patient. Which reminds me more that we are never alone in anything we do. The Lord is with us, even when we do not think that he is...amazing? I believe so.
This week was a little rocky at times. I have been eating well but sleep is the one thing I am struggling with. I am blessed to not have gotten sick this week. I have heard horror stories of people who cannot eat, are naueseated all the time, stricken with fever and sores, and I haven't had one of those problems yet! I have actually gained 5 pounds this week. I'm a little upset about that because I was told I would be losing weight and the "Biggest Loser" Contest at my work is over in a few weeks! I wanted that money and time off!
Thank you all, for your prayers, your words of support and encouragement, and for taking time to think about my family and I. May God bless each one of you!
Godspeed- Schwank
I want to thank all of you who have taken time to read this or who have thought about my family and I during this time. Like Deb wrote, it is the family that battles through the cancer, not just the patient. Which reminds me more that we are never alone in anything we do. The Lord is with us, even when we do not think that he is...amazing? I believe so.
This week was a little rocky at times. I have been eating well but sleep is the one thing I am struggling with. I am blessed to not have gotten sick this week. I have heard horror stories of people who cannot eat, are naueseated all the time, stricken with fever and sores, and I haven't had one of those problems yet! I have actually gained 5 pounds this week. I'm a little upset about that because I was told I would be losing weight and the "Biggest Loser" Contest at my work is over in a few weeks! I wanted that money and time off!
Thank you all, for your prayers, your words of support and encouragement, and for taking time to think about my family and I. May God bless each one of you!
Godspeed- Schwank
Thursday, April 17, 2008
A Beautiful Day
Although it didn't start out so nice, it turned out to be a beautiful day. We even had lunch out on the patio today.
Jeremy had a good night sleep last night, but he woke up not wanting to go to Siteman. He was a little crotchity, but once the day got going he was much better. The Cardinal Game (until they lost) and visits from family and friends helped (that, and beating his mom at a game of TIGWAP, although I won the first game:) Granma & Aunt Missy stopped by. Dan, a friend, and Pastor Schlie came by also. I promised Dan that he would make the blog.
As usual, Donna, his nurse had his favorite chair set up and ready to go when he got there. Last night, children who have parents going thru treatments at the center planted some flowers on the Patio of Hope and had done some chalk drawings. The patio is beautiful and was made even more so by the loving care that the kids and Nurse Vickie added to it.
We witnessed the red hawk flying over with a delicious lunch of black snake, I hope I never get to see that again, and rumor has it there are several bunnies missing from their nest:(
As our first week draws to a close, I want to tell you how amazing my son is, but I think you should know I may be prejusiced. His strength and courage and sense of humor have made this road a little less bumpy. We have been encouraged by Jim Vieth and Carol Peterson, a young mother of 3 who is battling breast cancer with grace and dignity. She is also being treated at the Siteman Center. If anyone has to battle this maddening disease I am grateful for places like this that make the process a little easier
Jerm has tomorrow and then he is done until Tuesday. Here's hoping that tomorrow is another good day.
Jeremy had a good night sleep last night, but he woke up not wanting to go to Siteman. He was a little crotchity, but once the day got going he was much better. The Cardinal Game (until they lost) and visits from family and friends helped (that, and beating his mom at a game of TIGWAP, although I won the first game:) Granma & Aunt Missy stopped by. Dan, a friend, and Pastor Schlie came by also. I promised Dan that he would make the blog.
As usual, Donna, his nurse had his favorite chair set up and ready to go when he got there. Last night, children who have parents going thru treatments at the center planted some flowers on the Patio of Hope and had done some chalk drawings. The patio is beautiful and was made even more so by the loving care that the kids and Nurse Vickie added to it.
We witnessed the red hawk flying over with a delicious lunch of black snake, I hope I never get to see that again, and rumor has it there are several bunnies missing from their nest:(
As our first week draws to a close, I want to tell you how amazing my son is, but I think you should know I may be prejusiced. His strength and courage and sense of humor have made this road a little less bumpy. We have been encouraged by Jim Vieth and Carol Peterson, a young mother of 3 who is battling breast cancer with grace and dignity. She is also being treated at the Siteman Center. If anyone has to battle this maddening disease I am grateful for places like this that make the process a little easier
Jerm has tomorrow and then he is done until Tuesday. Here's hoping that tomorrow is another good day.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
So Far, SO Good
Jeremy had another uneventful day (we love those). He felt much better today than yesterday. He even went fo a walk around his neighborhood (and a motorcycle ride:) I will say that he was pretty tired and ready to hit the hay (that's what us old people say when it is bedtime) around 8 p.m. He had a great night sleep last night (Tuesday night).
Only two more long days this week and then he gets a respite next week. I will update tomorrow.
Jerm's mom
Only two more long days this week and then he gets a respite next week. I will update tomorrow.
Jerm's mom
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
2 Down-19 to go
It is Tuesday evening and we just got back from having dinner at Jeremy's. (thanks Kim, the Poppy Seed Chicken was delicious). Jeremy commented today on how fast the day went, 7 hours sure flies by when you're havig fun. He will be there for 7 hours every day this week. Next week, we should be there a very short amount of time, just long enough to get his shot...I call it a booster shot, but I am sure that's not the technical name for it:) Then when he goes all week, Monday will be an 8 hour day and the rest of the week will be 7 hours.
Jeremy had a visit today from Jim Vieth. Now, Jim goes to our church but he has never met Jeremy and we (Jim & I) have had conversations in passing. I tell you this because Jim took time out of his day to come and sit and talk with Jeremy. The truly amazing thing about this, is that Jim is himself a cancer survivor. I think it was about 3 years ago when he was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer and his prognosis was not good. He had radiation and chemotherapy. He lost weight, got sick, weak and to see him today you would not know that he was ever sick. He has a great, contagious attitude. He has a strong faith, a quick smile and a positive outlook. I am amazed and grateful that he took time out of his day to come and spend time with Jeremy and Jeremy was inspired by Jim. You never know why people come into your lives, you only know who brings them there.
Jeremy took his motorcycle out for a spin this afternoon, but only made it to QT to put gas in it. He said he felt a little nauseated, so he came back home. He didn't sleep very well last night so I am hoping he rests tonight. Speaking of resting...I have things to do. I am posting a couple of pictures from Jeremy's surgery last month and a few I have taken this week (you know I have my camera with me at all times).
You can leave a comment, Jeremy has access to a computer at the hospital and will be checking in. He wrote in the blog today. Until tomorrow!
Jeremy had a visit today from Jim Vieth. Now, Jim goes to our church but he has never met Jeremy and we (Jim & I) have had conversations in passing. I tell you this because Jim took time out of his day to come and sit and talk with Jeremy. The truly amazing thing about this, is that Jim is himself a cancer survivor. I think it was about 3 years ago when he was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer and his prognosis was not good. He had radiation and chemotherapy. He lost weight, got sick, weak and to see him today you would not know that he was ever sick. He has a great, contagious attitude. He has a strong faith, a quick smile and a positive outlook. I am amazed and grateful that he took time out of his day to come and spend time with Jeremy and Jeremy was inspired by Jim. You never know why people come into your lives, you only know who brings them there.
Jeremy took his motorcycle out for a spin this afternoon, but only made it to QT to put gas in it. He said he felt a little nauseated, so he came back home. He didn't sleep very well last night so I am hoping he rests tonight. Speaking of resting...I have things to do. I am posting a couple of pictures from Jeremy's surgery last month and a few I have taken this week (you know I have my camera with me at all times).
You can leave a comment, Jeremy has access to a computer at the hospital and will be checking in. He wrote in the blog today. Until tomorrow!
My Infusion "thingy" Won't Stop Beeping
Hello everyone! This is the one, the only, Schwank! I'm writing you from the place where I am receiving my treatments, the Siteman Cancer Center. It really is a nice place...or at least as nice as it possibly can be. However, since Ma and I have walked out to this computer so I can say hello to all of you, my Infusion "dripper thing" won't stop beeping at me!! I keep pushing buttons on it, to quiet it, and that seems to be working. Im sure Donna, my nurse (or angel as I am referring to her as), will tell me I screwed something up on it. However, I think you could punch her in the mouth and she would still look at you with that smile and say something sweet to you in her soft-spoken voice.
I just wanted to say thank you...all of you, who I know, and to those I have never met. This is an experience that NO ONE ever wants to go through! Jim Vieth-I would love to chat with you. You said that it is Family, Friends, God, and those who have walked this path before that will get you through this. Now I know it!
God never gives anyone more than they can handle. I've asked a million questions as to why? I am not glad that I have cancer...at first it made me angry! Now I am glad, it has shown me the true hearts and souls of God's people. It has brought me back to HIM. As much as it angers me to say, I lost my God Path. The Lord sometimes does things to bring us back, to open our eyes and to see that He is still in control. Those are the times that there are only one set of Footprints In the Sand. We never do it on our own, we just think we are. God did not GIVE me this cancer. But God is using it to bring me back to Him.
As my Ma wrote in an earlier blog, no one knows what good will come of this. Or when. Or where. But in our hearts we know that it will. This is my second day as a Cancer Patient. I can not wait to join those like my Grandma Schwentker, Deb Gilbert, Deb Dizerega, Jim Vieth, my close friend Jason Law, and many many others who have traveled this road before, and be a Cancer Survivor.
God Bless all of you. The power of prayer is unbeleivable!
Godspeed,
Schwank
I just wanted to say thank you...all of you, who I know, and to those I have never met. This is an experience that NO ONE ever wants to go through! Jim Vieth-I would love to chat with you. You said that it is Family, Friends, God, and those who have walked this path before that will get you through this. Now I know it!
God never gives anyone more than they can handle. I've asked a million questions as to why? I am not glad that I have cancer...at first it made me angry! Now I am glad, it has shown me the true hearts and souls of God's people. It has brought me back to HIM. As much as it angers me to say, I lost my God Path. The Lord sometimes does things to bring us back, to open our eyes and to see that He is still in control. Those are the times that there are only one set of Footprints In the Sand. We never do it on our own, we just think we are. God did not GIVE me this cancer. But God is using it to bring me back to Him.
As my Ma wrote in an earlier blog, no one knows what good will come of this. Or when. Or where. But in our hearts we know that it will. This is my second day as a Cancer Patient. I can not wait to join those like my Grandma Schwentker, Deb Gilbert, Deb Dizerega, Jim Vieth, my close friend Jason Law, and many many others who have traveled this road before, and be a Cancer Survivor.
God Bless all of you. The power of prayer is unbeleivable!
Godspeed,
Schwank
Monday, April 14, 2008
One Down-20 to go
Jeremy's first treatment was today...pretty uneventful (yeah). Lots of things to learn and watch for. I think Thursday or Friday, the treatments will kick in and he may not feel as good as today. They did not put a port in, but they are leaving the iv needle in, they wrapped it when we left there today. They will move the needle as they see fit.
The day consisted of Heaven Sent doughnuts, Jimmy Johns lunch, journaling, ivs being changed, magazines and visits from a couple of friends, Shane, John. Jerry (Jerm's daddy) came up and visited during his lunch hour. Donna, Jerm's nurse was wondeful and took good care of him. I told her to make sure she gets a good night sleep and her favorite breakfast so she is good to go when we get there tomorrow.
As much as I hate to say it, the infusion room at Siteman was a busy place today. I hate to say it because it means that all the people were there for one reason and some had to wait for chairs to open up before their treatments could begin. As a mom, it is hard to believe that your child is going thru this, Jeremy is by far the youngest one there today, but I also realized that I am not so odd in feeling the pain of watching my child go thru this. I met a gentleman today, Orville, who was there with his son, Herb. Herb is around my age and has lung cancer. Orville has all ready lost a daughter to ovarian cancer and lost his wife to cancer also. He said as hard as it was to lose his beloved wife, it has been even harder watching his children. Please keep Orville and Herb in your prayers.
As I close this out for today, I want to tell you how much each and everything you have done or said has meant to us. I went to the Center today with gifts from people Jerm hasn't even met, on the way home, I got a call to pick up another gift from one friend and dinner from another. Another friend stopped by to see Jerm on her way home from work. Awesome! God has blessed our lives with so many wonderful people. Some of you have asked if there is anything you can do for Jeremy and I will tell you that I am collecting some "do rags" for him for when his hair starts coming out. I don't know if he can really shave his head because of the "divuticulatis" he has on his head. I am not really sure if that is the name of it or not, but Jeremy has sores in his hairline and makes shaving his head painful because they burst and pop. So we are looking for do rags.
One of my favorite bible verses is Romans 8:28 "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.' I thought of this many times today. I do not know why Jeremy is going thru this, I only know that something good will come from it, we may not know for years what it is. It is my hope that God uses this journey to bring us closer to him. Until tomorrow.....Valerie & Jerry
The day consisted of Heaven Sent doughnuts, Jimmy Johns lunch, journaling, ivs being changed, magazines and visits from a couple of friends, Shane, John. Jerry (Jerm's daddy) came up and visited during his lunch hour. Donna, Jerm's nurse was wondeful and took good care of him. I told her to make sure she gets a good night sleep and her favorite breakfast so she is good to go when we get there tomorrow.
As much as I hate to say it, the infusion room at Siteman was a busy place today. I hate to say it because it means that all the people were there for one reason and some had to wait for chairs to open up before their treatments could begin. As a mom, it is hard to believe that your child is going thru this, Jeremy is by far the youngest one there today, but I also realized that I am not so odd in feeling the pain of watching my child go thru this. I met a gentleman today, Orville, who was there with his son, Herb. Herb is around my age and has lung cancer. Orville has all ready lost a daughter to ovarian cancer and lost his wife to cancer also. He said as hard as it was to lose his beloved wife, it has been even harder watching his children. Please keep Orville and Herb in your prayers.
As I close this out for today, I want to tell you how much each and everything you have done or said has meant to us. I went to the Center today with gifts from people Jerm hasn't even met, on the way home, I got a call to pick up another gift from one friend and dinner from another. Another friend stopped by to see Jerm on her way home from work. Awesome! God has blessed our lives with so many wonderful people. Some of you have asked if there is anything you can do for Jeremy and I will tell you that I am collecting some "do rags" for him for when his hair starts coming out. I don't know if he can really shave his head because of the "divuticulatis" he has on his head. I am not really sure if that is the name of it or not, but Jeremy has sores in his hairline and makes shaving his head painful because they burst and pop. So we are looking for do rags.
One of my favorite bible verses is Romans 8:28 "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.' I thought of this many times today. I do not know why Jeremy is going thru this, I only know that something good will come from it, we may not know for years what it is. It is my hope that God uses this journey to bring us closer to him. Until tomorrow.....Valerie & Jerry
Sunday, April 13, 2008
past emails
Hello friends,
Just wanted to take a minut and let you know about Jeremy. Some of you know that he has had some problems lately and after some testing and without going into too much graphic detail, he has been diagnosed with testicular cancer. He is having surgery NEXT Thursday. There are 3 kinds of cancer this could be and until they biopsy it, which takes several days, we will not know which one he has or what form of follow up treatment he will need.
To say I am scared is an understatement and while I know that testicular cancer is the most curable formof cancer, I also know that he is my baby and I can't do anything for him. I guess it doesn't matter if they are 26 weeks old or 26 years old, the fact that I still want to hold him in my arms and keep the world at bay and protect him is all I can think of.
Please keep him in your prayers, because I know it is the oly thing I can do, and it is EVRYTHING I can do. I will let you know more as I know it.
Thanks,
Jerry and Val
Hey everyone,
Just wanted to let you know Jeremy had his surgery yesterday and the tumor was removed. He had a prosthetic put in also. He did well thru the surgery, although it took a little while to get that big boy to sleep. He is very sore but he is on the mend. He has an appointment next Thursday with the urologist where he will find out if there is any follow up treatment he needs. The Dr. said he did not want to tell us anything until he had the biopsy back, until he is sure what is going on.
Jerry and I appreciate all the prayers, you will never know how much your kind words have meant to us and Jeremy. Now we pray for patience as we wait the results and for Jermey to have the peace, strength and comfort for the days that lie ahead.
Thanks so much,
Jerry and Valerie
Hi everyone,
Jeremy had his followup visit today to the urologist, I was hoping the surgery would have taken care of his cancer, but there is a little bump in the road.
I may have told some of you that Jeremy has swollen lymph nodes on the right side of his groin which could have been from the infection that caused him to go to the doctor in the first place (the infection was totally unrelated to the testicular cancer, so it was a blessing in disguise, a painful blessing, but a blessing none the less:) I am going to explain it the best I know, which is not that good, I still have questions, lots of them, but this is what I know, I think
When Jeremy had blood work done before his cancer it came back normal, which I think means they had a reason to believe the tumor they were removing was benign. It wasn't benign. Dr. Lev said that 10-15% have blood test come back normal when there is in fact cancer. After the biopsy was done on the removed tumor it was determined to be cancerous which means that the abnormal lymph nodes on the right side of his body most likely cancer also. Jeremy is being sent to the Siteman Center to see an oncologist to have follow up treatment, chemotherapy. While this is not real common Dr. Lev assured me it is not unusual either. So that's it, my BABY has cancer, but Dr. Lev said that the prognosis is excellent, not good, EXCELLENT!!!!!!!! And Jeremy is calm and strong and young and ready to do whatever it takes to get back to 100%. He went to the Siteman center after he left Dr. Lev's today and said they were WONDERFUL there, they are trying to get him in tomorrow or early next week. I told his doctor I am scared...he said he would worry about me if I wasn;t, so I guess I am normal, will someone tell my family that? I know there are worse things that can happen, I know many who are going thru harder struggles than this in their lives right now, I feel selfish being scared, but I feel helpless and unable to protect him from this.
And yet we see so many amazing things happening around him and us. Friends and family who have rallied around us, lifted us up in prayer, sent notes, cards emails to Jeremy and us. It has been amazing. We are SO VERY GRATEFUL for Dr. Hingst, Jeremy's regular doctor who sent him to Dr. Lev, to Dr. Lev for explaining and reexplaining when I don't get it and now for the Siteman Center. Please continue to pray for those who have taken and will continue to take care of Jeremy.
Our church had a musical this past weekend and one of the songs we sang was Glorify Your Son. Those words have been in my thoughts all week, Give him faith, give him courage, give him strength and give him peace. That is what we are praying for.
Thanks again for your kindness.
Love,
Jerry & Valerie
Hi everyone,
Just a small update....Jeremy is going to the Siteman Center next week for a petscan and some other tests. His appointment is April 2 with the oncologist, the doctor is on vacation next week...can you believe it, he obviously doesn't know who Jeremy is:) I just have to keep telling myself it isn't my timing.
I have been so consumed with what is happening with Jeremy that I forgot to mention that a friend of Jeremy's is going thru treatment at the Siteman Center for lymphoma. His name is Jason Law, so please keep him in your prayers also......man, who knew I was this needy????
Have a blessed Easter!
The Schwentker Family
Hi everyone,
Today was the "consultation" with Jeremy's oncologist, Dr. Tim Poulard (love him). Jeremy will be undergoing 3 rounds-9 weeks of chemotherapy. Along with the lymph nodes, he also has a few spots on his lungs, a couple that "lit" up on the petscan, which means they are cancerous. Not what we were really hoping to hear. The doctor said that since the cancer originated in the testicles, this is all still part of the testicular cancer. I think I was expecting to hear more about the cancer in the lymph nodes, but he talked with us at great length about the concern for the spots that are on his lungs also. The chemo should take care of all of it.
The first week of his chemo will be everyday, all day, then the next 2 weeks will be one day a week. He will have to do this for 3 weeks. It is an aggresive form of chemo but it should take care of all the hot spots that are in his body. After the treatments, he will have to go every 3 months to make sure everything is good. Of course, none of this can start until he has ummmm...banked his "boys" for future Schwentkers. Hopefully that process will be wrapped up in 10 days because the doctor wants him to start the chemo as soon as possible.
I am still in shock and awl I think as to what is taking place. Some ways it seems this has all gone so fast, and other ways it seems like a lifetime. There are moments when I feel like I have been kicked in the stomach and I can't catch my breath and then that is when I say BREATHE, just Breathe, and then I close my eyes and I say ok God, it's your plan.....but you have to help me out with this...and He does. I don't know if it is the fear of the cancer or the feeling of ABSOLUTE helplessness that I can not do anything for Jeremy, I can't have the surgery, I can't take the chemo, I can't do anything but watch and pray...and so I do, I pray. I pray for strength and comfort for Jeremy, guidance for every doctor and nurse that will become part of his everyday life over the next few months. Jeremy was confirmed at Messiah at the end of his eighth grade and his life verse was chosen for him. Joshua 1:9 "Be strong and courageous, do not be terrified, do not be discouraged for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." I know Jeremy is our kid, but I want to say he is handling this all with a sense of humor and grace and strength. I love that kid!
Again, thanks for your kindness. Jeremy said that he is taping up every card and note he has gotten and he is amazed at how nice everyone is, even people who don't know him.
Love,
Jerry & Valerie
P.s. My dear bible study friends, I kind of lied to you the last time we met when I said I would be ok with whatever happened....I kind of broke down.....you should never believe anything I say:)
Just wanted to take a minut and let you know about Jeremy. Some of you know that he has had some problems lately and after some testing and without going into too much graphic detail, he has been diagnosed with testicular cancer. He is having surgery NEXT Thursday. There are 3 kinds of cancer this could be and until they biopsy it, which takes several days, we will not know which one he has or what form of follow up treatment he will need.
To say I am scared is an understatement and while I know that testicular cancer is the most curable formof cancer, I also know that he is my baby and I can't do anything for him. I guess it doesn't matter if they are 26 weeks old or 26 years old, the fact that I still want to hold him in my arms and keep the world at bay and protect him is all I can think of.
Please keep him in your prayers, because I know it is the oly thing I can do, and it is EVRYTHING I can do. I will let you know more as I know it.
Thanks,
Jerry and Val
Hey everyone,
Just wanted to let you know Jeremy had his surgery yesterday and the tumor was removed. He had a prosthetic put in also. He did well thru the surgery, although it took a little while to get that big boy to sleep. He is very sore but he is on the mend. He has an appointment next Thursday with the urologist where he will find out if there is any follow up treatment he needs. The Dr. said he did not want to tell us anything until he had the biopsy back, until he is sure what is going on.
Jerry and I appreciate all the prayers, you will never know how much your kind words have meant to us and Jeremy. Now we pray for patience as we wait the results and for Jermey to have the peace, strength and comfort for the days that lie ahead.
Thanks so much,
Jerry and Valerie
Hi everyone,
Jeremy had his followup visit today to the urologist, I was hoping the surgery would have taken care of his cancer, but there is a little bump in the road.
I may have told some of you that Jeremy has swollen lymph nodes on the right side of his groin which could have been from the infection that caused him to go to the doctor in the first place (the infection was totally unrelated to the testicular cancer, so it was a blessing in disguise, a painful blessing, but a blessing none the less:) I am going to explain it the best I know, which is not that good, I still have questions, lots of them, but this is what I know, I think
When Jeremy had blood work done before his cancer it came back normal, which I think means they had a reason to believe the tumor they were removing was benign. It wasn't benign. Dr. Lev said that 10-15% have blood test come back normal when there is in fact cancer. After the biopsy was done on the removed tumor it was determined to be cancerous which means that the abnormal lymph nodes on the right side of his body most likely cancer also. Jeremy is being sent to the Siteman Center to see an oncologist to have follow up treatment, chemotherapy. While this is not real common Dr. Lev assured me it is not unusual either. So that's it, my BABY has cancer, but Dr. Lev said that the prognosis is excellent, not good, EXCELLENT!!!!!!!! And Jeremy is calm and strong and young and ready to do whatever it takes to get back to 100%. He went to the Siteman center after he left Dr. Lev's today and said they were WONDERFUL there, they are trying to get him in tomorrow or early next week. I told his doctor I am scared...he said he would worry about me if I wasn;t, so I guess I am normal, will someone tell my family that? I know there are worse things that can happen, I know many who are going thru harder struggles than this in their lives right now, I feel selfish being scared, but I feel helpless and unable to protect him from this.
And yet we see so many amazing things happening around him and us. Friends and family who have rallied around us, lifted us up in prayer, sent notes, cards emails to Jeremy and us. It has been amazing. We are SO VERY GRATEFUL for Dr. Hingst, Jeremy's regular doctor who sent him to Dr. Lev, to Dr. Lev for explaining and reexplaining when I don't get it and now for the Siteman Center. Please continue to pray for those who have taken and will continue to take care of Jeremy.
Our church had a musical this past weekend and one of the songs we sang was Glorify Your Son. Those words have been in my thoughts all week, Give him faith, give him courage, give him strength and give him peace. That is what we are praying for.
Thanks again for your kindness.
Love,
Jerry & Valerie
Hi everyone,
Just a small update....Jeremy is going to the Siteman Center next week for a petscan and some other tests. His appointment is April 2 with the oncologist, the doctor is on vacation next week...can you believe it, he obviously doesn't know who Jeremy is:) I just have to keep telling myself it isn't my timing.
I have been so consumed with what is happening with Jeremy that I forgot to mention that a friend of Jeremy's is going thru treatment at the Siteman Center for lymphoma. His name is Jason Law, so please keep him in your prayers also......man, who knew I was this needy????
Have a blessed Easter!
The Schwentker Family
Hi everyone,
Today was the "consultation" with Jeremy's oncologist, Dr. Tim Poulard (love him). Jeremy will be undergoing 3 rounds-9 weeks of chemotherapy. Along with the lymph nodes, he also has a few spots on his lungs, a couple that "lit" up on the petscan, which means they are cancerous. Not what we were really hoping to hear. The doctor said that since the cancer originated in the testicles, this is all still part of the testicular cancer. I think I was expecting to hear more about the cancer in the lymph nodes, but he talked with us at great length about the concern for the spots that are on his lungs also. The chemo should take care of all of it.
The first week of his chemo will be everyday, all day, then the next 2 weeks will be one day a week. He will have to do this for 3 weeks. It is an aggresive form of chemo but it should take care of all the hot spots that are in his body. After the treatments, he will have to go every 3 months to make sure everything is good. Of course, none of this can start until he has ummmm...banked his "boys" for future Schwentkers. Hopefully that process will be wrapped up in 10 days because the doctor wants him to start the chemo as soon as possible.
I am still in shock and awl I think as to what is taking place. Some ways it seems this has all gone so fast, and other ways it seems like a lifetime. There are moments when I feel like I have been kicked in the stomach and I can't catch my breath and then that is when I say BREATHE, just Breathe, and then I close my eyes and I say ok God, it's your plan.....but you have to help me out with this...and He does. I don't know if it is the fear of the cancer or the feeling of ABSOLUTE helplessness that I can not do anything for Jeremy, I can't have the surgery, I can't take the chemo, I can't do anything but watch and pray...and so I do, I pray. I pray for strength and comfort for Jeremy, guidance for every doctor and nurse that will become part of his everyday life over the next few months. Jeremy was confirmed at Messiah at the end of his eighth grade and his life verse was chosen for him. Joshua 1:9 "Be strong and courageous, do not be terrified, do not be discouraged for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." I know Jeremy is our kid, but I want to say he is handling this all with a sense of humor and grace and strength. I love that kid!
Again, thanks for your kindness. Jeremy said that he is taping up every card and note he has gotten and he is amazed at how nice everyone is, even people who don't know him.
Love,
Jerry & Valerie
P.s. My dear bible study friends, I kind of lied to you the last time we met when I said I would be ok with whatever happened....I kind of broke down.....you should never believe anything I say:)
Up to Date
I have started this blog as a way I can keep everyone updated on Jeremy's progress as he goes thru the steps of his cancer treatments. I think I may have missed some people as I try to update them, so I thought this might be an easier way to keep in touch.
Jeremy starts his chemo tomorrow, Monday, April 14. He is anxious to get the ball rolling so he can be done.
I want to thank all of you for the kindness you have shown our family thru out this time. The cards, notes, phone calls, gifts..etc....have meant so much to our family. This is a bump in our road of life, but not one we can't overcome. As this process begins, we are just asking God to be with every person who will be taking care of Jerm over the next few month's aand we are praying for comfort and strength for Jerm.
I will try and blog every day, at least every other day to let you know how things are going. I am also posting the previous emails, because I am sure that I may have missed a few people. Again, thanks for your prayers and your kindness.
Jeremy starts his chemo tomorrow, Monday, April 14. He is anxious to get the ball rolling so he can be done.
I want to thank all of you for the kindness you have shown our family thru out this time. The cards, notes, phone calls, gifts..etc....have meant so much to our family. This is a bump in our road of life, but not one we can't overcome. As this process begins, we are just asking God to be with every person who will be taking care of Jerm over the next few month's aand we are praying for comfort and strength for Jerm.
I will try and blog every day, at least every other day to let you know how things are going. I am also posting the previous emails, because I am sure that I may have missed a few people. Again, thanks for your prayers and your kindness.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)