The Corvallis Cancer Center is an amazing facility, with very competent and compassionate staff. It has been so nice to just hop in the car, drive 15 minutes to the opposite end of town, have Bruce's treatment, and be home all within the time it would've taken to drive just one way to OHSU! What a blessing for Bruce, me and the children!
Bruce's actual treatments have been quick and bearable. The side affects......not so much. He has been extrememly fatigued, had four+ days of hiccups, a sore, tight throat (later diagnosed as thrush), some nausea, dizzy spells, memory challenges, minor loss of hearing in one ear, some weight loss, lack of sleep, and a few other things. He continues to meet each challenge with determination, dependence on God, love for others and with such a spirit of grace and humility.
In our desire to help Bruce be as comfortable as possible (and not suffer unecessarily) during this treatment phase, and to give me a peace of mind, we have acquired the help of hospice. We have only met two of the nurses and they are beyond amazing! Christy made the introductory house visit and evaluation this afternoon and 2 hours later, Becky delivered some new anti-nausea medication and explained the proper dose and application. What a blessing!
It has been hard for the kids to see their daddy so sick, but understand that most of his symptoms are due to the radiation treatments and the medications to counteract the side affects. Bruce's last full brain and spinal treatment will be on Tues, Feb 5th and he will have the rest of the week to rest and recover. Bruce will see Dr Fuss at OHSU on Monday, Feb 11th for some imaging, lab work and simulation testing. His last radiotactic treatment to zap the larger tumors in his brain will hopefully be the following day, Tues the 12th. After all this, he will truly have time to recover from this intense round of treatment....this will be time for the whole family to rest, refresh and gain new strength!
We love the blog comments and encouraging messages. The meals have been such a blessing. The taxi service for my kids has been such a help. The prayers for our family have been so necessary and effective....KEEP THEM GOING!!! The ways we have been blessed and uplifted are too numerous to list......God has taken such care to take such good care of us!
With much love and appreciation,
MBA for THE A TEAM!!!
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Friday, January 18, 2008
BRUCE IS HOME
Bruce was discharged from OHSU this afternoon, had his radiation treatment, had a short visit with his mom at her home (who is undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer), had a quick lunch at our favorite restaurant, Macaroni Grill, had a nice ride home....until we ran out of gas on Hwy 34, just 7 miles from home! The day was just too routine so I had to throw something in to make it a typical Alexander Adventure....Bruce could have done without that kind of fun....Amah too!!! Marcie, my sister, came to our rescue (remember, she's amazing!) and we made it home safe and sound. We're looking forward to a good night's sleep and time together with the family. It's just so good to be home!!!
Thanks for your continued love, support and prayers!!! Good night!!
[FYI...Bruce's radiation treatments will now be done in Corvallis which will be better for the family, more comfortable for Bruce and much easier for MB to keep the gas tank full!!!]
Thanks for your continued love, support and prayers!!! Good night!!
[FYI...Bruce's radiation treatments will now be done in Corvallis which will be better for the family, more comfortable for Bruce and much easier for MB to keep the gas tank full!!!]
Thursday, January 17, 2008
OHSU
Hello Dear Family and Friends!
It is once again late....so once again this will be quick:
**Bruce was stable enough Wed night to get his scheduled full brain radiation treatment (2nd one) AND his first spinal radiation treatment. No complications with these.
**My mom and sister drove down from Seattle to help out in any way. The three of us stayed in a downtown hotel in an attempt to give me a good night sleep....it worked!
**Bruce had a good night, his anti-seizure and steroid levels were up where they should be, he was walking around the ICU unit after breakfast, passed all evaluations, was in the beginning stages of being discharged and unplugged from all his machines, felt queasy, got up to get his "bucket" and that was all he remembered. I arrived at ICU to Bruce being wheeled off to get a CT to see if there was any damage done in the fall...you can imagine how loud of a "thud" there was when he fell! Bruce said that the titanium plates in his head probably saved him....one fringe benefit of brain surgery!
**Needless to say, all talk of discharging him was done. He was quite disappointed at the set back but knows this is the best place to be right now.....and I didn't even have to convince him of that.....but I was ready to do it!!
**My sister, Marcie, headed down to Corvallis to be with the kids, be in charge of all the comings and goings and get some order restored to my house!! She is amazing!!
**Bruce had another full brain and spinal radiation treatment today, is overnight again in ICU (they wanted to move him to the standard Neurology ward, but there were no beds available) and he will have another treatment Friday at noon.
**My mom, Amah, stayed here with me and Bruce and was available to do whatever. She is amazing!! We are at a hotel again tonight. It is hard for me to be away from Bruce but know it is the best thing for me.
**We know nothing beyond tomorrow's treatment, other than God is Sovereign, God is Good, God is Trustworthy and we are totally dependent on HIM!
Thanks again for every one's love and prayers. We are strengthened daily by them!
MBA for The A Team!!
It is once again late....so once again this will be quick:
**Bruce was stable enough Wed night to get his scheduled full brain radiation treatment (2nd one) AND his first spinal radiation treatment. No complications with these.
**My mom and sister drove down from Seattle to help out in any way. The three of us stayed in a downtown hotel in an attempt to give me a good night sleep....it worked!
**Bruce had a good night, his anti-seizure and steroid levels were up where they should be, he was walking around the ICU unit after breakfast, passed all evaluations, was in the beginning stages of being discharged and unplugged from all his machines, felt queasy, got up to get his "bucket" and that was all he remembered. I arrived at ICU to Bruce being wheeled off to get a CT to see if there was any damage done in the fall...you can imagine how loud of a "thud" there was when he fell! Bruce said that the titanium plates in his head probably saved him....one fringe benefit of brain surgery!
**Needless to say, all talk of discharging him was done. He was quite disappointed at the set back but knows this is the best place to be right now.....and I didn't even have to convince him of that.....but I was ready to do it!!
**My sister, Marcie, headed down to Corvallis to be with the kids, be in charge of all the comings and goings and get some order restored to my house!! She is amazing!!
**Bruce had another full brain and spinal radiation treatment today, is overnight again in ICU (they wanted to move him to the standard Neurology ward, but there were no beds available) and he will have another treatment Friday at noon.
**My mom, Amah, stayed here with me and Bruce and was available to do whatever. She is amazing!! We are at a hotel again tonight. It is hard for me to be away from Bruce but know it is the best thing for me.
**We know nothing beyond tomorrow's treatment, other than God is Sovereign, God is Good, God is Trustworthy and we are totally dependent on HIM!
Thanks again for every one's love and prayers. We are strengthened daily by them!
MBA for The A Team!!
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Bruce Needs Our Prayers!
Mary Beth just called tonight (January 16) to say that Bruce had a seizure in the car on the way up to Oregon Health Sciences University for his full brain radiation treatments. He is now in intensive care in the neurosurgery unit. Right now they are checking his levels and keeping tabs on him and working with Dr. Foos to decide when/if to continue the brain radiation.
Thank you so much for praying. We'll keep you posted.
Carol for the "A" team
Thank you so much for praying. We'll keep you posted.
Carol for the "A" team
Monday, January 14, 2008
PET RESULTS
We are back safe and sound from a great weekend! The wait for the pet scan was a loooooong one, but we survived! Bruce had a great lunch in the cafeteria (he was too hungry to take extra time traveling to a restaurant...thankfully the food is good at OHSU!) and then we headed North! We spent time with family, saw friends we haven't seen in awhile, fulfilled our business obligations-Superman did great! We hollered and screamed during the first 5 minutes of the Seahawk game and then ate and laughed our way out of sadness over the Hawk loss! The kids did great over the weekend, the house was still standing (even though it did look like a tornado went through it) and no injuries on the snow blast....all in all, a good weekend!
Our call from the doctor this afternoon included more challenging news to absorb. Bruce has a tumor in his right armpit and colon and one of the 5 tumors in his lungs has grown. The PET confirmed the tumor in the cervical spinal cord and his thoracic area is still undetermined. Again, we weren't shocked, just deeply saddened.....and slightly surprised that there were not more tumors....
The emotional roller coaster ride continues....this ride is not as fun and exciting as California Screamin', but I feel we need to be securely fastened and buckled in tight just the same.....
Bruce's plan for treatment stays the same for now. He goes to OHSU for a full CAT SCAN of his spine at 9:30 am and then has his first radio tactic surgery on one or two of the larger brain tumors at 1:30 pm. Our dear friend, Don Snow, is taking Bruce up to OHSU and spending the day with him so I can get things done at home (my never ending endeavor) and have time with the kids. The doctor mentioned in the phone call that the full brain radiation will start soon, as early as Wednesday! We will find out more after Tuesday's visit and will update the blog when we have more details.
Bruce: "We are trusting and seeing God's blessings every day....and hope you are doing the same!"
Securely Fastened in God's Arms,
MBA
Our call from the doctor this afternoon included more challenging news to absorb. Bruce has a tumor in his right armpit and colon and one of the 5 tumors in his lungs has grown. The PET confirmed the tumor in the cervical spinal cord and his thoracic area is still undetermined. Again, we weren't shocked, just deeply saddened.....and slightly surprised that there were not more tumors....
The emotional roller coaster ride continues....this ride is not as fun and exciting as California Screamin', but I feel we need to be securely fastened and buckled in tight just the same.....
Bruce's plan for treatment stays the same for now. He goes to OHSU for a full CAT SCAN of his spine at 9:30 am and then has his first radio tactic surgery on one or two of the larger brain tumors at 1:30 pm. Our dear friend, Don Snow, is taking Bruce up to OHSU and spending the day with him so I can get things done at home (my never ending endeavor) and have time with the kids. The doctor mentioned in the phone call that the full brain radiation will start soon, as early as Wednesday! We will find out more after Tuesday's visit and will update the blog when we have more details.
Bruce: "We are trusting and seeing God's blessings every day....and hope you are doing the same!"
Securely Fastened in God's Arms,
MBA
Friday, January 11, 2008
WAITING
Friday Afternoon:
I am here in the waiting room while Bruce is having his pet scan. It should be done soon-I hope-and then Bruce wants to go eat a big lunch! I've taken a little nap, made some phone calls, caught up on emails, went for a walk, watched an infomercial about the Oreck vacuum cleaner.....do you see why I hope this test is done soon? :)
I'm sure we won't get any results until next week, so we have fun weekend plans in Seattle to help pass the time. We will visit friends and family, do some Arbonne presentations (Bruce has even offered to be a testimonial model at our Sat Open House-who better to have model than SUPERMAN!), and Bruce's highlight: watching the SEAHAWK PLAY-OFF GAME with his brother-in-laws and hopefully playing some hoops with his basketball buddies....oh, and spending time with me!
Pearce and Isaac are headed to a Snow Blast Weekend with their youth group (please pray there are no broken bones, concussions or other major injuries!) and Mikaela will stay busy with her regular social activities. Their hearts are always filled when they are with their friends doing what they love.....God really does provide just what we need!
Well, that's it for now, time for another walk.....only so much sitting one can do while waiting........
Love,
MBA
I am here in the waiting room while Bruce is having his pet scan. It should be done soon-I hope-and then Bruce wants to go eat a big lunch! I've taken a little nap, made some phone calls, caught up on emails, went for a walk, watched an infomercial about the Oreck vacuum cleaner.....do you see why I hope this test is done soon? :)
I'm sure we won't get any results until next week, so we have fun weekend plans in Seattle to help pass the time. We will visit friends and family, do some Arbonne presentations (Bruce has even offered to be a testimonial model at our Sat Open House-who better to have model than SUPERMAN!), and Bruce's highlight: watching the SEAHAWK PLAY-OFF GAME with his brother-in-laws and hopefully playing some hoops with his basketball buddies....oh, and spending time with me!
Pearce and Isaac are headed to a Snow Blast Weekend with their youth group (please pray there are no broken bones, concussions or other major injuries!) and Mikaela will stay busy with her regular social activities. Their hearts are always filled when they are with their friends doing what they love.....God really does provide just what we need!
Well, that's it for now, time for another walk.....only so much sitting one can do while waiting........
Love,
MBA
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Pictures to Share
I was looking thru some of our photos and did not know that I had these. My Mom was just asking if anyone had copies of the family photos at Bruce's 50th Birthday Bash and we thought they were gone. SURPRISE!! Thought I would share them here.....with a few other favorites!
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Bruce's 5oth Birthday Celebration at Lake Sammamish. Bruce and MB with her Mom and siblings! We missed Poppy, MB's dad, who was in the hospital....we were tempted to sneak him out for the day...but common sense and wisdom got the better of us.....I guess that comes with age! 
Mike and Sandy; Marco and Rebecca; BA and MBA; Marcie and Shawn; Matt and Mary Jo!
Just for the record, Bruce is the oldest of the bunch!
Bruce with some high school buddies who drove up from Portland to celebrate with him!The Duck attire was a total joke....the outfit, and Bruce, ended up in the water....right where it belongs!
Uncle Bruce with his kids and all the nieces and nephews...and Charlie! Spencer had just moved into his dorm and was officially a college student and unable to make it to this party! He and Poppy were greatly missed!
Bruce and his younger sister, Kirsten. Her Duck shirt is NOT a joke....but the glasses are!Monday, January 7, 2008
RECENT NEWS
Hello Dear Friends and Family!
It is very late, but we wanted to give a quick update. Please know that we will keep everyone posted with more details as we know them and are able to get them posted. YOUR CONCERN, LOVE AND SUPPORT MEANS SO MUCH TO OUR FAMILY!!
~A tumor in the cervical section of the spinal cord was detected just last Friday. There is also something suspicious in his thoracic spine area, but not identifiable. Bruce started back on steroids immediately to prevent swelling in these critical areas.
~A brain MRI was done at OHSU on Sunday night with an immediate follow up appt with Dr Fuss, the radiation oncologist, on Monday morning.
~The brain MRI showed that Bruce has 8 new brain tumors, all in the last month,.....this was very shocking and very sad news.
~The plan is to radiate the 3 largest brain tumors (targeted radiation, just like his other brain tumors) and then have full brain radiation.
~He will have a mask fitting and simulation tests done this Wed at OHSU.
~He will have a full pet scan at OHSU on Fri to fully determine what is happening with his spine and check the status of the chest and lung tumors.
How are we doing, you might be asking.....
BRUCE SAYS: "IT IS HARD NEWS, BUT WE ARE TRUSTING GOD AND TRYING TO CHERISH EVERY MOMENT WE HAVE WITH OUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS!"
MBA SAYS: "DITTO!"
Our kids were very sad to hear the news and trying to deal with their hurt. They are also learning to trust God in the hard things, be honest with their feelings and thoughts, and are turning to each other for support and comfort....what a lesson to learn at such a young age.
They love God and are sensing his presence and nearness....as are their mom and dad!
Love,
MBA for the A TEAM!!
ONE DAY AT A TIME TEAM!!!
It is very late, but we wanted to give a quick update. Please know that we will keep everyone posted with more details as we know them and are able to get them posted. YOUR CONCERN, LOVE AND SUPPORT MEANS SO MUCH TO OUR FAMILY!!
~A tumor in the cervical section of the spinal cord was detected just last Friday. There is also something suspicious in his thoracic spine area, but not identifiable. Bruce started back on steroids immediately to prevent swelling in these critical areas.
~A brain MRI was done at OHSU on Sunday night with an immediate follow up appt with Dr Fuss, the radiation oncologist, on Monday morning.
~The brain MRI showed that Bruce has 8 new brain tumors, all in the last month,.....this was very shocking and very sad news.
~The plan is to radiate the 3 largest brain tumors (targeted radiation, just like his other brain tumors) and then have full brain radiation.
~He will have a mask fitting and simulation tests done this Wed at OHSU.
~He will have a full pet scan at OHSU on Fri to fully determine what is happening with his spine and check the status of the chest and lung tumors.
How are we doing, you might be asking.....
BRUCE SAYS: "IT IS HARD NEWS, BUT WE ARE TRUSTING GOD AND TRYING TO CHERISH EVERY MOMENT WE HAVE WITH OUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS!"
MBA SAYS: "DITTO!"
Our kids were very sad to hear the news and trying to deal with their hurt. They are also learning to trust God in the hard things, be honest with their feelings and thoughts, and are turning to each other for support and comfort....what a lesson to learn at such a young age.
They love God and are sensing his presence and nearness....as are their mom and dad!
Love,
MBA for the A TEAM!!
ONE DAY AT A TIME TEAM!!!
Bruce Up In Portland for Tests
Hi all,
Bruce and Mary Beth are up in Portland today for some new tests. I am sure they will let you know more about that soon, but I thought I would just post it here to get as many people to pray as possible.
Carol
Bruce and Mary Beth are up in Portland today for some new tests. I am sure they will let you know more about that soon, but I thought I would just post it here to get as many people to pray as possible.
Carol
Thursday, December 20, 2007
BRUCE'S TURN!!
Bruce wanted to write this entry, so, here it is. My (MB's) additional comments will be in italics......
A little has happened since the last update. Here we go!
1. Mary Beth and I had a 4 day getaway to Seattle in early December. MB got stuck up in Seattle for an extra week when I-5 was closed due to the flooding of the Chehalis River…I had to fly back to Oregon for some appointments and rescue the kids from each other. She had some extra time for business and to do some fun things with her parents, family, friends …it turned out to be a nice break for her!!! (a nice beak for me, yes, but not so sure about my mom and dad....I think they are still recovering!) But when she got back KABOOM!!!...Christmas is upon us!! Many thanks to those who helped us with errands and transportation while we were gone – we were and are truly blessed to be surrounded with such great friends!!
2. I had two sessions of radiation surgery (Monday 12/10 and Thursday 12/13). Each session treated 2 tumors. The doctor, Dr Fuss, thinks that the treatments will be successful based on the other 5 tumors that were treated in July – they are doing great (not coming back), and according to Dr. Fuss, they are “textbook perfect” in their response.
3. There are two “freckles” that showed up on the most recent MRI, which may indicate 2 more tumors…but then again they may not… In 4 weeks I will get another MRI to check on them.
4. We got approved for the clinical trial of anti-CTLA4 (a new treatment for melanoma). Our chemo doctor (Dr. Brendan Curti) made a special appeal for us after it was initially turned down by our insurance provider. We are not sure when I will be able to participate in the study since I had to go on steroids for some brain swelling as a result of the radiation. To top it off, our insurance provider is changing with the new year and we may have to go through the appeal process again. Hopefully, there will be no problems!!
5. Isaac had surgery to remove a swollen lymph node on 12/17/07. He had a lump on the back of his head, right in the same spot as my tumor was a year ago. Due to my history, they thought it prudent to take the lump out and check it. The surgeon said it was an enlarged lymph nod, he showed it to the pathologist and initially it looked benign, but we will know for sure later this week. **just got the results in: a clean report-lymph nod is benign!! Isaac has 3 other 'lumps' on his head and we will continue to keep an eye on these** Ike was brave getting the IV, blood drawn and stuff. He said he is really looking forward to having stitches and then a cool scar on the back of his head. He also mentioned that he wants a Mohawk!! (small scar, no mohawk, had a big headache for a few days and is doing much better today!)
6. Spencer is back from school at George Fox, and has completed his first set of finals…I am sure he did very well…he likes the “studious” life of being a college student.
Mikaela is singing with the Worship Band for the Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services – she has a beautiful voice and is excited to let er rip….she even has a small solo!!!.
Pearce and Ike are on basketball teams and are doing well in their home schooling (but are waiting for the Christmas Break!). All three kids LOVE having their big brother back home!
7. Mary Beth is decorating for Christmas (actually she is pointing, and I am decorating..just the tree lights!!) Even though we got a late start it looks very fun and festive!!
She is diligently building her Arbonne Business….it’s hard work but very rewarding. She won a trip to the Bahamas this year, but we weren’t able to go. Her goal next year is to win the all expense paid trip to Cancun for the whole family in Oct 08….I know she can do it! I am so proud of her and her accomplishments and love seeing her in action! The biggest kick I get out of it is the interaction and the fun that the women (and even men!) have when they come to parties and try products, relax, reminisce and laugh – it is a nice little oasis of blessing and joy in our busy world. And the biggest kick I get out of it is that I am able to provide financially for my family during this time and have so much fun doing it!!
8. Last little thing. I ran across this passage in Malachi the other day. It is the last book in the old testament. It was written in about 430 BC –there would not be any more prophets until the Christ and John the Baptist 460 years later…so when I think about this book, I think that God was saying some things that were really important to remember…
Malachi 3:13-17 (English Standard Version)
13"Your words have been hard against me, says the LORD. But you say, 'How have we spoken against you?' 14You have said, 'It is vain to serve God. What is the profit of our keeping his charge or of walking as in mourning before the LORD of hosts? 15And now we call the arrogant blessed. Evildoers not only prosper but they put God to the test and they escape.'"
The Book of Remembrance
16Then those who feared the LORD spoke with one another. The LORD paid attention and heard them, and a book of remembrance was written before Him of those who feared the LORD and esteemed His name. 17"They shall be mine, says the LORD of hosts, in the day when I make up my treasured possession, and I will spare them as a man spares his son who serves him.
Many people back then had become cynical. They did not see the point in continuing to serve the Lord, because arrogant and evil people were prospering while they were going without, or were suffering, or things were just not going their way. But there was a group of people who “feared” (esteemed) the Lord that did not agree with the many. In fact they got together and talked about it – to each other- and God, whose eyes roam to and fro about the whole earth, seeking those whose heart is completely His – was eavesdropping! He was listening in! And do you know what He did? He wrote down their names! Every single one of them. He made them His treasure and said “these are going to be treated like my sons and daughters”. I believe the Book is still open. He is still looking for those whose hearts belong to Him. He is still listening. He is still writing names....
Thank you for your prayers,
Bruce, MB and Family
A little has happened since the last update. Here we go!
1. Mary Beth and I had a 4 day getaway to Seattle in early December. MB got stuck up in Seattle for an extra week when I-5 was closed due to the flooding of the Chehalis River…I had to fly back to Oregon for some appointments and rescue the kids from each other. She had some extra time for business and to do some fun things with her parents, family, friends …it turned out to be a nice break for her!!! (a nice beak for me, yes, but not so sure about my mom and dad....I think they are still recovering!) But when she got back KABOOM!!!...Christmas is upon us!! Many thanks to those who helped us with errands and transportation while we were gone – we were and are truly blessed to be surrounded with such great friends!!
2. I had two sessions of radiation surgery (Monday 12/10 and Thursday 12/13). Each session treated 2 tumors. The doctor, Dr Fuss, thinks that the treatments will be successful based on the other 5 tumors that were treated in July – they are doing great (not coming back), and according to Dr. Fuss, they are “textbook perfect” in their response.
3. There are two “freckles” that showed up on the most recent MRI, which may indicate 2 more tumors…but then again they may not… In 4 weeks I will get another MRI to check on them.
4. We got approved for the clinical trial of anti-CTLA4 (a new treatment for melanoma). Our chemo doctor (Dr. Brendan Curti) made a special appeal for us after it was initially turned down by our insurance provider. We are not sure when I will be able to participate in the study since I had to go on steroids for some brain swelling as a result of the radiation. To top it off, our insurance provider is changing with the new year and we may have to go through the appeal process again. Hopefully, there will be no problems!!
5. Isaac had surgery to remove a swollen lymph node on 12/17/07. He had a lump on the back of his head, right in the same spot as my tumor was a year ago. Due to my history, they thought it prudent to take the lump out and check it. The surgeon said it was an enlarged lymph nod, he showed it to the pathologist and initially it looked benign, but we will know for sure later this week. **just got the results in: a clean report-lymph nod is benign!! Isaac has 3 other 'lumps' on his head and we will continue to keep an eye on these** Ike was brave getting the IV, blood drawn and stuff. He said he is really looking forward to having stitches and then a cool scar on the back of his head. He also mentioned that he wants a Mohawk!! (small scar, no mohawk, had a big headache for a few days and is doing much better today!)
6. Spencer is back from school at George Fox, and has completed his first set of finals…I am sure he did very well…he likes the “studious” life of being a college student.
Mikaela is singing with the Worship Band for the Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services – she has a beautiful voice and is excited to let er rip….she even has a small solo!!!.
Pearce and Ike are on basketball teams and are doing well in their home schooling (but are waiting for the Christmas Break!). All three kids LOVE having their big brother back home!
7. Mary Beth is decorating for Christmas (actually she is pointing, and I am decorating..just the tree lights!!) Even though we got a late start it looks very fun and festive!!
She is diligently building her Arbonne Business….it’s hard work but very rewarding. She won a trip to the Bahamas this year, but we weren’t able to go. Her goal next year is to win the all expense paid trip to Cancun for the whole family in Oct 08….I know she can do it! I am so proud of her and her accomplishments and love seeing her in action! The biggest kick I get out of it is the interaction and the fun that the women (and even men!) have when they come to parties and try products, relax, reminisce and laugh – it is a nice little oasis of blessing and joy in our busy world. And the biggest kick I get out of it is that I am able to provide financially for my family during this time and have so much fun doing it!!
8. Last little thing. I ran across this passage in Malachi the other day. It is the last book in the old testament. It was written in about 430 BC –there would not be any more prophets until the Christ and John the Baptist 460 years later…so when I think about this book, I think that God was saying some things that were really important to remember…
Malachi 3:13-17 (English Standard Version)
13"Your words have been hard against me, says the LORD. But you say, 'How have we spoken against you?' 14You have said, 'It is vain to serve God. What is the profit of our keeping his charge or of walking as in mourning before the LORD of hosts? 15And now we call the arrogant blessed. Evildoers not only prosper but they put God to the test and they escape.'"
The Book of Remembrance
16Then those who feared the LORD spoke with one another. The LORD paid attention and heard them, and a book of remembrance was written before Him of those who feared the LORD and esteemed His name. 17"They shall be mine, says the LORD of hosts, in the day when I make up my treasured possession, and I will spare them as a man spares his son who serves him.
Many people back then had become cynical. They did not see the point in continuing to serve the Lord, because arrogant and evil people were prospering while they were going without, or were suffering, or things were just not going their way. But there was a group of people who “feared” (esteemed) the Lord that did not agree with the many. In fact they got together and talked about it – to each other- and God, whose eyes roam to and fro about the whole earth, seeking those whose heart is completely His – was eavesdropping! He was listening in! And do you know what He did? He wrote down their names! Every single one of them. He made them His treasure and said “these are going to be treated like my sons and daughters”. I believe the Book is still open. He is still looking for those whose hearts belong to Him. He is still listening. He is still writing names....
Thank you for your prayers,
Bruce, MB and Family
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
HAPPY THANKSGIVING
We are headed to the Washington Coast, Ocean Shores area, to spend the Thanksgiving Holiday with my (MB's) family. We are excited to spend time with cousins, aunts, uncles, Amah and Poppy, nieces and nephews...and will miss those family members who aren't able to join us! We get to make Bruce's famous mashed potatoes for about 40 people....fun times!
HUGE HIGHLIGHT: Spencer showed up at the house Tues night as a surprise for his brothers and sister...oh man, I'm sure the whole neighborhood heard the screams of excitement and pure joy when the kids saw their big brother! They all had a good time touching Spencer's beard (face fuzz right now) and catching him up on all the happenings over the last 3 months. Spencer loved sleeping in his own bed, having some real food and just hanging at home. HE WAS GREATLY MISSED! I had all my baby chicks gathered together, the family was complete and this 'mother hen' was so content!
NEW NEWS: We found out on Monday that our insurance does not cover clinical trials. We were sad to hear this news but totally aware that God is in control, He knows what we need and He will take care of us. We are in the process of checking out what our costs would be for the trial, what additional expenses the study will cover and see what our options are. We continue to walk hand in hand with our Lord, step by step trusting Him and living one day at a time.
IN EVERYTHING GIVE THANKS, FOR THIS IS GOD'S WILL FOR YOU IN CHRIST JESUS!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
Love,
The Alexanders!
HUGE HIGHLIGHT: Spencer showed up at the house Tues night as a surprise for his brothers and sister...oh man, I'm sure the whole neighborhood heard the screams of excitement and pure joy when the kids saw their big brother! They all had a good time touching Spencer's beard (face fuzz right now) and catching him up on all the happenings over the last 3 months. Spencer loved sleeping in his own bed, having some real food and just hanging at home. HE WAS GREATLY MISSED! I had all my baby chicks gathered together, the family was complete and this 'mother hen' was so content!
NEW NEWS: We found out on Monday that our insurance does not cover clinical trials. We were sad to hear this news but totally aware that God is in control, He knows what we need and He will take care of us. We are in the process of checking out what our costs would be for the trial, what additional expenses the study will cover and see what our options are. We continue to walk hand in hand with our Lord, step by step trusting Him and living one day at a time.
IN EVERYTHING GIVE THANKS, FOR THIS IS GOD'S WILL FOR YOU IN CHRIST JESUS!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
Love,
The Alexanders!
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
UPDATE
TRUST IN THE LORD WITH ALL YOUR HEART AND DO NOT LEAN ON YOUR OWN UNDERSTANDING. IN ALL YOUR WAYS ACKNOWLEDGE HIM AND HE WILL MAKE YOUR PATHS STRAIGHT! Proverbs 3:5,6
The news we received on Monday was not the best news....but it was, also, not the worst news:
To quote the Dr: "The melanoma has shifted over the past 2 months-a definite change in more aggressive growth patterns. There is mild progression in the lungs and there are new nests of melanoma in the brain that were not evident before. The tumors in the brain are small, in the overall scheme of things. Bruce's body is under stress of melanoma but he is doing very well physically and this opens the door for other options."
The option we have is an experimental clinical trial called "AntiCTLA4", also known as "ippilimomab"....try saying that 10 times really fast! This trial has been around for 3 years, used on 1000 patients worldwide with a 20% success rate with tumor shrinkage. This is a 90 minute IV treatment given once every three weeks for a total of 4 treatments. This is done at Providence Medical Center in Portland. The side affects (possible extreme flu-like symptoms) most likely won't show up until after the 3rd or 4th treatment. The response is often delayed, which means we most likely won't see any results until after the 12th week...meaning the tumors could possibly grow before they shrink.
We are in the process of reading all the material and submitting the necessary paperwork to get this started. We anticipate Bruce's first treatment within the next two weeks...which looks like we will make through the Thanksgiving and Christmas Holidays with minimal disruption...YEAH!
The kids, overall, are doing well. We had a chance to stop by George Fox and see Spencer on the way home from Portland. It was a quick visit (college life is full and busy), but any time we can get with him is precious. We had a "family meeting" with our other three kids on Monday night and they did well hearing the news, understanding it and are prepared to go forward....just like we always have...one day at a time! We have such amazing children who are showing an incredible amount of maturity and courage in the midst of a very difficult time. They are living and learning what it means to "TRUST IN THE LORD WITH ALL THEIR HEARTS"!!
Bruce and I have had lots to absorb, process and discuss. It has been good, hard, sweet, overwhelming, uplifting, challenging.....and lots more. We continue to learn what it means to "TRUST IN THE LORD WITH ALL OUR HEARTS"...and wouldn't want it any other way!!
I will post more information and details when I can.
We have so much to be thankful for and at the top of the list is the gift of friendship-each and everyone of you! Where would we be without you?
Keep praying. Keep walking with us. Keep trusting.
With much love,
MBA FOR THE A TEAM!!
WHAT CANCER CANNOT DO
Cancer is so limited....
It cannot cripple Love.
It cannot shatter Hope.
It cannot corrode Faith.
It cannot destroy Peace.
It cannot kill Friendship.
It cannot suppress Memories.
It cannot silence Courage.
It cannot invade the Soul.
It cannot steal Eternal Life.
It cannot conquer the Spirit.
Cancer is so limited!!
~Author Unknown
The news we received on Monday was not the best news....but it was, also, not the worst news:
To quote the Dr: "The melanoma has shifted over the past 2 months-a definite change in more aggressive growth patterns. There is mild progression in the lungs and there are new nests of melanoma in the brain that were not evident before. The tumors in the brain are small, in the overall scheme of things. Bruce's body is under stress of melanoma but he is doing very well physically and this opens the door for other options."
The option we have is an experimental clinical trial called "AntiCTLA4", also known as "ippilimomab"....try saying that 10 times really fast! This trial has been around for 3 years, used on 1000 patients worldwide with a 20% success rate with tumor shrinkage. This is a 90 minute IV treatment given once every three weeks for a total of 4 treatments. This is done at Providence Medical Center in Portland. The side affects (possible extreme flu-like symptoms) most likely won't show up until after the 3rd or 4th treatment. The response is often delayed, which means we most likely won't see any results until after the 12th week...meaning the tumors could possibly grow before they shrink.
We are in the process of reading all the material and submitting the necessary paperwork to get this started. We anticipate Bruce's first treatment within the next two weeks...which looks like we will make through the Thanksgiving and Christmas Holidays with minimal disruption...YEAH!
The kids, overall, are doing well. We had a chance to stop by George Fox and see Spencer on the way home from Portland. It was a quick visit (college life is full and busy), but any time we can get with him is precious. We had a "family meeting" with our other three kids on Monday night and they did well hearing the news, understanding it and are prepared to go forward....just like we always have...one day at a time! We have such amazing children who are showing an incredible amount of maturity and courage in the midst of a very difficult time. They are living and learning what it means to "TRUST IN THE LORD WITH ALL THEIR HEARTS"!!
Bruce and I have had lots to absorb, process and discuss. It has been good, hard, sweet, overwhelming, uplifting, challenging.....and lots more. We continue to learn what it means to "TRUST IN THE LORD WITH ALL OUR HEARTS"...and wouldn't want it any other way!!
I will post more information and details when I can.
We have so much to be thankful for and at the top of the list is the gift of friendship-each and everyone of you! Where would we be without you?
Keep praying. Keep walking with us. Keep trusting.
With much love,
MBA FOR THE A TEAM!!
WHAT CANCER CANNOT DO
Cancer is so limited....
It cannot cripple Love.
It cannot shatter Hope.
It cannot corrode Faith.
It cannot destroy Peace.
It cannot kill Friendship.
It cannot suppress Memories.
It cannot silence Courage.
It cannot invade the Soul.
It cannot steal Eternal Life.
It cannot conquer the Spirit.
Cancer is so limited!!
~Author Unknown
Monday, November 12, 2007
NOVEMBER 12th...THE LONG AWAITED DAY!!
We go to Portland this afternoon to see Dr Curti and get the results of Bruce's scans from Mon, Nov 5th. Bruce has been off his home chemo medicine for almost 4 weeks, now. It has been a nice break for him..he hasn't had to take all these pills at night, has slowly felt better every morning and has more energy throughout the day. We are eager to see the Dr and find out what the tests revealed. Our prayer is that there are NO NEW TUMORS and that the existing tumors SHRUNK...or at least DID NOT GROW! Please pray with us! This would mean that the medicine did it's thing and Bruce would go back on the chemo medicine for another cycle....that would be a good thing!
I will post the results when I can....that is, of course, after we have time as a couple to receive and process the info (good or not so good) AND have adequate time to do the same with our children!
Thank you, everyone, for your encouraging words and constant support. We are in God's care, surrounded by His love and filled with His peace!
Love,
MBA
I will post the results when I can....that is, of course, after we have time as a couple to receive and process the info (good or not so good) AND have adequate time to do the same with our children!
Thank you, everyone, for your encouraging words and constant support. We are in God's care, surrounded by His love and filled with His peace!
Love,
MBA
Monday, October 8, 2007
MORE THAN HALF WAY!!
I can't believe it's been three weeks since the last post....I guess no news is good news?...that, and we have been very busy!! Here's the latest:
~Bruce has been taking the Temodar nightly now for a little over three weeks. He will take it until Oct 25th, have two weeks off and go for more imaging in Nov. The side affects have been minimal (minor nausea, fatigue, a bit "foggy brained"...he sounds like he's pregnant!) and he is doing amazingly well. He's like the energizer bunny-he just keeps going! He tries to do light workouts and some cardio everyday cuz it helps him stay strong and feel good....now, if only I could do that! While he can, he is "head teacher" with the boy's home school. Bruce is a great teacher and the boys love having this time with their daddy! Bruce is helping out as an assistant coach for Isaac's 8th grade football team (2nd year doing this) and just loves these boys....and they love their Coach Bruce! Bruce always said that if he could have his dream job, he would love to be a coach...here's to living his dream!
~While Bruce is home and doing well, I (MB) am pushing forward with my Arbonne business. (If you are not familiar with Arbonne, check out my website: (http://www.purely4you.myarbonne.com/ and let me know how I can help you.)
I get to pick my own hours, can work around the family's schedule, introduce products that are pure, safe and beneficial, see amazing results and have a lot of fun while doing this. I am having a blast helping others personally and professionally while at the same time providing for my family and our future! We couldn't ask for anything better at this time in our lives....well, winning the lottery would be pretty good! :) I am back subbing again for indoor cycling. I have missed it and love being "back in the saddle"! It is so nice being home together and settled into a routine...for the time being!
~Home life continues to stay busy and full of activity:
**Mikaela is very involved with the 6th grade girls at our church, helps every Tues with a community outreach ministry at a local church, loves being a senior, just took her SATs and senior photos, is looking at a number of colleges, continues to sing constantly and loves being with her friends. She wants to get her license and really needs hours behind the wheel.....but it just isn't as fun as everything else she is doing. She is such a lovely young lady-inside and out!
**Spencer is doing great and loving the college life.....at least we think he is.....no news is good news, right? :) The last we heard, he was really liking his classes and his job with Grounds Maintenance. He has connected with a nice group of boys on his dorm floor and doing lots of fun things together. He had his first visit to the clinic two weeks ago-he hurt his ankle playing soccer. Thankfully it was just a sprain and no broken bones. We all miss him terribly but are so happy for him and the great experience so far.
**Talking about broken bones....that's what Isaac has. He fractured his wrist in football practice last week, has a temporary splint on right now and we see the doctor again on Tuesday. The fracture is near his growth plate and they are being very cautious. He will most likely be casted tomorrow, unless he needs more imaging or is referred to an orthopedist. He is having a great attitude (looks like he's out for the season), rooted his team on to a sudden overtime victory yesterday and just loves this sport and his teammates. He is a great team player-on and off the field!
**Pearce is just Pearce.....and loving football! He was born to play sports and is doing great for his first year. He is a key defensive player (don't ask me the official name, I just know that he gets to block and knock the bad guys down!) and is the biggest guy on the team....no surprise there! :) He doesn't have any major injuries (knock on wood) just tons of bruises on his arms and a sore body from all the up-downs he gets to do! If he could live his dream, he would continue to to play for Linus Pauling Middle School, play for CHS, hope for a full ride at OSU and then play for any NFL Team after that....here's to dreaming!
**And then there's Charlie! He is absolutely adorable and our whole family is totally in love with him.....especially Bruce! He keeps us on our toes and laughing with all his puppy antics. We are so fortunate to have him in our family...who knew that a dog could bring such joy and affection? We know!!
Well, that's it for now. Hopefully it won't take me another 3 weeks to post again, but I'm not making any promises. :) Thank you to everyone for your love, prayers and support. Your blog comments are so fun to read and are so encouraging....keep them coming!
Dream Freely~Dream Big~Dream Lots!!
Love,
MB for the A's!
~Bruce has been taking the Temodar nightly now for a little over three weeks. He will take it until Oct 25th, have two weeks off and go for more imaging in Nov. The side affects have been minimal (minor nausea, fatigue, a bit "foggy brained"...he sounds like he's pregnant!) and he is doing amazingly well. He's like the energizer bunny-he just keeps going! He tries to do light workouts and some cardio everyday cuz it helps him stay strong and feel good....now, if only I could do that! While he can, he is "head teacher" with the boy's home school. Bruce is a great teacher and the boys love having this time with their daddy! Bruce is helping out as an assistant coach for Isaac's 8th grade football team (2nd year doing this) and just loves these boys....and they love their Coach Bruce! Bruce always said that if he could have his dream job, he would love to be a coach...here's to living his dream!
~While Bruce is home and doing well, I (MB) am pushing forward with my Arbonne business. (If you are not familiar with Arbonne, check out my website: (http://www.purely4you.myarbonne.com/ and let me know how I can help you.)
I get to pick my own hours, can work around the family's schedule, introduce products that are pure, safe and beneficial, see amazing results and have a lot of fun while doing this. I am having a blast helping others personally and professionally while at the same time providing for my family and our future! We couldn't ask for anything better at this time in our lives....well, winning the lottery would be pretty good! :) I am back subbing again for indoor cycling. I have missed it and love being "back in the saddle"! It is so nice being home together and settled into a routine...for the time being!
~Home life continues to stay busy and full of activity:
**Mikaela is very involved with the 6th grade girls at our church, helps every Tues with a community outreach ministry at a local church, loves being a senior, just took her SATs and senior photos, is looking at a number of colleges, continues to sing constantly and loves being with her friends. She wants to get her license and really needs hours behind the wheel.....but it just isn't as fun as everything else she is doing. She is such a lovely young lady-inside and out!
**Spencer is doing great and loving the college life.....at least we think he is.....no news is good news, right? :) The last we heard, he was really liking his classes and his job with Grounds Maintenance. He has connected with a nice group of boys on his dorm floor and doing lots of fun things together. He had his first visit to the clinic two weeks ago-he hurt his ankle playing soccer. Thankfully it was just a sprain and no broken bones. We all miss him terribly but are so happy for him and the great experience so far.
**Talking about broken bones....that's what Isaac has. He fractured his wrist in football practice last week, has a temporary splint on right now and we see the doctor again on Tuesday. The fracture is near his growth plate and they are being very cautious. He will most likely be casted tomorrow, unless he needs more imaging or is referred to an orthopedist. He is having a great attitude (looks like he's out for the season), rooted his team on to a sudden overtime victory yesterday and just loves this sport and his teammates. He is a great team player-on and off the field!
**Pearce is just Pearce.....and loving football! He was born to play sports and is doing great for his first year. He is a key defensive player (don't ask me the official name, I just know that he gets to block and knock the bad guys down!) and is the biggest guy on the team....no surprise there! :) He doesn't have any major injuries (knock on wood) just tons of bruises on his arms and a sore body from all the up-downs he gets to do! If he could live his dream, he would continue to to play for Linus Pauling Middle School, play for CHS, hope for a full ride at OSU and then play for any NFL Team after that....here's to dreaming!
**And then there's Charlie! He is absolutely adorable and our whole family is totally in love with him.....especially Bruce! He keeps us on our toes and laughing with all his puppy antics. We are so fortunate to have him in our family...who knew that a dog could bring such joy and affection? We know!!
Well, that's it for now. Hopefully it won't take me another 3 weeks to post again, but I'm not making any promises. :) Thank you to everyone for your love, prayers and support. Your blog comments are so fun to read and are so encouraging....keep them coming!
Dream Freely~Dream Big~Dream Lots!!
Love,
MB for the A's!
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
A LATE UPDATE
PRAISE GOD! Our insurance approved the oral chemotherapy medication. Bruce took his first dose last Thursday night. He will take one dose every night for 6 weeks. He will get 2 weeks off and then go in for full imaging again. He feels nauseous and achy when he wakes, but feels better as the day progresses. The fatigue is not too bad during the day. He is thankful for the minimal side affects and is happy to be home......his whole family is happy to have him home!
OH-for those of you who are curious.....the cost for the pills this month was only $30.00!!! Let me say it again: PRAISE GOD!
More later!
MBA
OH-for those of you who are curious.....the cost for the pills this month was only $30.00!!! Let me say it again: PRAISE GOD!
More later!
MBA
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