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
Thursday, December 20, 2007
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
Sunday, September 9, 2007
MEDICAL UPDATE
I apologize for the delay in this post. Life has been extremely full of family activities-nothing new there-and blog updating was placed at the bottom of the priority list. It is back on top today!
We met with Dr Curti (our melanoma-oligist) on Friday. Here is the information we received:
**It is too early to assess the results of the brain radiation treatment. We will know more about this in two months.
**Bruce has three new lesions (tumors) in the left side of the brain, four new lesions in his lungs and the one tumor that has been in his chest cavitiy is larger. The new lesions are very small and, as of right now, they do not appear to be affecting Bruce physically. PRAISE THE LORD!
**Bruce will be taking an oral chemotherapy pill, TEMODAR, daily for 6 weeks. He will have 2 weeks off for recovery and then go in for another set of full body scans. We are waiting for all the insurance paperwork to be approved and hope to start the drug sometime this week.
**IF the scans show that the tumors have responded positively to the TEMODAR (shrunk or disappeared), then Bruce will repeat the same treatment cycle.
**TEMODAR was the treatment choice because it is one of the only drugs that can treat the body AND penetrate the blood brain barrier at the same time....which is desperately needed.
**This drug is the best tolerated by patients and hopefully will have minimal side affects: fatigue, nausea, headaches, blood count levels, etc. His blood will be checked regularly. Fortunately, we can do that locally. Unfortunately, it will mean more "pokes" for Bruce...his least favorite thing!
**There is NOT a cure for melanoma (the most unpredictable cancer and the most formidable), which we are fully aware of. This drug, however, will help us with our main goal: to keep kicking back the cancer by controlling the existing tumors and arresting the seeds of melanoma while maintaining the quality of life Bruce desires. Bruce is in excellent physical health with very strong and healthy internal organs. This puts him in the "best corner" to tolerate the drug and it's side affects and to keep on fighting! That is what he is-the best fighter I know!
We are so thankful for the excellent medical care that Bruce is receiving and have the highest respect for Dr Curti and his staff. He cares very much for Bruce-not only for his physical health but his personal life: me, our family and our quality of life. We are very blessed.
We are thrilled that Bruce can be home during the next two months (not in the hospital for lengthy stays and not a lot of I-5 commuting). This will be so nice for our family-especially for the kids as they can start their fall schedules with some consistency and normalcy....as if we ever had that before! :)
PRAYER REQUESTS:
~That our insurance will cover the cost of the TEMODAR (it is very expensive).
~That the side affects will be minimal and tolerable for Bruce and that he continues to get whatever he needs to keep up the good fight!
~That our children will not be fearful and that they would be daily encouraged to carry on with what they need to do: enjoy their childhood, be brave, be honest with what they are feeling, depend on their God and each other........and keep their rooms clean! (Bruce threw that one in!)
~That MB would be emotionally and spiritually strengthened each day and have the stamina to deal with all that is required as a wife, mother and caretaker.
~That the Alexander Family would continue to "love God with all our heart, mind, soul and strength", that we would "rejoice in the Lord always" and that every day we would continue to "taste and see the goodness of our Lord"!!
Thank you to everyone for walking alongside us, for bearing this with us, and for your help in fighting this battle....we need and love having you on our team!
And He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness. " Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.
Therefore, I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties for Christ's sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong!!! (2Corinthians 12:9,10)
Staying Strong,
The A TEAM!
We met with Dr Curti (our melanoma-oligist) on Friday. Here is the information we received:
**It is too early to assess the results of the brain radiation treatment. We will know more about this in two months.
**Bruce has three new lesions (tumors) in the left side of the brain, four new lesions in his lungs and the one tumor that has been in his chest cavitiy is larger. The new lesions are very small and, as of right now, they do not appear to be affecting Bruce physically. PRAISE THE LORD!
**Bruce will be taking an oral chemotherapy pill, TEMODAR, daily for 6 weeks. He will have 2 weeks off for recovery and then go in for another set of full body scans. We are waiting for all the insurance paperwork to be approved and hope to start the drug sometime this week.
**IF the scans show that the tumors have responded positively to the TEMODAR (shrunk or disappeared), then Bruce will repeat the same treatment cycle.
**TEMODAR was the treatment choice because it is one of the only drugs that can treat the body AND penetrate the blood brain barrier at the same time....which is desperately needed.
**This drug is the best tolerated by patients and hopefully will have minimal side affects: fatigue, nausea, headaches, blood count levels, etc. His blood will be checked regularly. Fortunately, we can do that locally. Unfortunately, it will mean more "pokes" for Bruce...his least favorite thing!
**There is NOT a cure for melanoma (the most unpredictable cancer and the most formidable), which we are fully aware of. This drug, however, will help us with our main goal: to keep kicking back the cancer by controlling the existing tumors and arresting the seeds of melanoma while maintaining the quality of life Bruce desires. Bruce is in excellent physical health with very strong and healthy internal organs. This puts him in the "best corner" to tolerate the drug and it's side affects and to keep on fighting! That is what he is-the best fighter I know!
We are so thankful for the excellent medical care that Bruce is receiving and have the highest respect for Dr Curti and his staff. He cares very much for Bruce-not only for his physical health but his personal life: me, our family and our quality of life. We are very blessed.
We are thrilled that Bruce can be home during the next two months (not in the hospital for lengthy stays and not a lot of I-5 commuting). This will be so nice for our family-especially for the kids as they can start their fall schedules with some consistency and normalcy....as if we ever had that before! :)
PRAYER REQUESTS:
~That our insurance will cover the cost of the TEMODAR (it is very expensive).
~That the side affects will be minimal and tolerable for Bruce and that he continues to get whatever he needs to keep up the good fight!
~That our children will not be fearful and that they would be daily encouraged to carry on with what they need to do: enjoy their childhood, be brave, be honest with what they are feeling, depend on their God and each other........and keep their rooms clean! (Bruce threw that one in!)
~That MB would be emotionally and spiritually strengthened each day and have the stamina to deal with all that is required as a wife, mother and caretaker.
~That the Alexander Family would continue to "love God with all our heart, mind, soul and strength", that we would "rejoice in the Lord always" and that every day we would continue to "taste and see the goodness of our Lord"!!
Thank you to everyone for walking alongside us, for bearing this with us, and for your help in fighting this battle....we need and love having you on our team!
And He has said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness. " Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.
Therefore, I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties for Christ's sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong!!! (2Corinthians 12:9,10)
Staying Strong,
The A TEAM!
Monday, September 3, 2007
RESTING ON LABOR DAY!
Hi All.
It's been a long time, huh? The last two weeks have been action packed and I will do my best to fill you in on all the family fun....don't worry, it will be the condensed version!!!
~Spencer is now officially a full time college student! He moved into Pennington, his dorm at George Fox, on Thursday, Aug 23rd, with the help from his Uncle Matt. Hmmm, "help" might not be the right word....they pulled the car up, a group of students came running to unload the car and carry all the boxes to Spencer's room. Spencer turned down Matt's offer to help unpack, so Matt took it upon himself to "break-in" and "test out" Spencer's pillow.. The final report: it works just fine! Oh, Matt wants everyone to know that he did carry in one box (there were only 8 students and 9 boxes)! Yes, Matt, you were a great help....and alot more fun than MOM!
Spencer is all settled in, staying busy with school work and campus activities and as far as we know, loving college life. If any of you hear from him, please let us know how he's doing! :)
~Mikaela had her senior pictures taken on Friday, Aug 30th. It feels like just yesterday she was a young freshman starting high school.....now she's all grown up.....where does the time go?? Mikaela starts school on Wed, Sept 5th. She's excited to be a senior, is really happy with her class schedule and can't wait to get started. She did mention that it will be lonely without Spencer there, but is looking forward to seeing all her friends! She is in the process of getting her 100 driving hours and can't wait to get her license....actually, it's her mom that can't wait!!!
~Isaac and Pearce are playing football for the Linus Pauling 8th and 6th grade teams. They are working hard, playing hard, and sleeping hard! They have their 'start of the season' Jamboree this Saturday and can't wait to get on the field and compete! The boys will be home schooled again this year and we are gearing up for the school routine. Their hair is growing in fast and I haven't heard the latest with what style they want next. Send in your votes for your favorite hair style and we'll see what happens!
~Bruce, as you well know, turned 50 on Aug 17th and boy, did we celebrate!! We need this whole next month just to recover! Our friends, Hugh and Tracy, hosted a party in their Bellevue home for friends and family in the Seattle area at the end of August. Bruce's sister, Kirsten, rallied together a handful of his high-school friends from Portland and 4 cousins he hasn't seen in years to come and crash the party!! What a total surprise for Bruce! The party was fabulous, with many close friends and family there to celebrate. Bruce was overwhelmed and came home with such a feeling of comfort, love and consolation. Thanks to all who made that such a special day. Pictures will be coming soon on the blog.....Bruce is wearing a very special outfit that he wants all to see!
~Bruce will be having a CT and brain MRI this Tues, the 4th, here in Corvallis. We will go see Dr Curti at Providence Medical in Portland on Friday, Aug 7th, at 10:30 am. We will find out if the radiation was successful on the brain tumors and what is going on in his body. The appt is scheduled for an hour and I know we will walk away with alot of new information to process and have some decisions to make regarding recommendations for future treatment.
We have enjoyed this "free-time with no treatments or surgeries. Bruce has been very diligent to get his body, mind and spirit in shape for whatever comes next. We have spent TONS of time together as a family and making sure we enjoy the simple things each and every day. What a gift each day is!
We will be attending a dear friend's wedding on Friday night and we want to fully enter into the joy of this celebration. So, we will share any medical news (good or bad) on Sat morning with our children (Spencer will be with us for the night) and then we will update the blog on Saturday night. We wanted to let you all know so that you are not alarmed by the delay in any posts. Thank you for understanding. Thank you all for your constant love, support, prayers and commitment to us!
More pictures will be coming soon......there are so many, it's hard to keep up!
HAPPY SEPTEMBER TO ALL!
Love,
The A TEAM!
BRUCE'S HIGH SCHOOL FRIENDS WHO DROVE UP FROM PORTLAND TO SURPRISE HIM. A HIGHLIGHT OF THE DAY FOR HIM! GUESS HOW OLD THEY ARE?
BRUCE WORE A DUCK T-SHIRT (thanks, Tim) AND A DUCK HAT BEFORE HE JUMPED IN THE LAKE...RIGHT WHERE THEY BELONG!! LATER, HE WORE THE RIGHT COLORS.....BEAVER ORANGE AND BLACK!! FUN, VERY FUN!!!
WE JUST NEEDED TO MAKE CERTAIN THINGS CLEAR.....VERY CLEAR!!
Saturday, August 18, 2007
QUICK NOTE
IN CASE ANYONE IS INTERESTED:
YOU CAN ENLARGE ANY OF THE PICTURES BY JUST CLICKING ON IT!
MAN, I FEEL LIKE AN EXPERT.....who am I kidding? :)
YOU CAN ENLARGE ANY OF THE PICTURES BY JUST CLICKING ON IT!
MAN, I FEEL LIKE AN EXPERT.....who am I kidding? :)
MEET CHARLIE
Charlie.....hanging out in the kitchen area. He is 9 weeks old here.
He loves to play with his puppy toys. This is one of his favorites. It is a spider toy that was a hand-me-down from a neighbor dog, Ashley.
Here he is showing off for the camera.
He is so adorable....even if he isn't completely house trained!
Charlie approves of Pearce's new hair cut. (So does the neighbor, Alaina)
Check out the previous post for pictures of the buzzing process!
CHARLIE HAS BEEN A GREAT ADDITION TO THE FAMILY.
DON'T WORRY-HE WON'T BE GETTING BUZZED WITH THE CLIPPERS!
Check out the previous post for pictures of the buzzing process!
CHARLIE HAS BEEN A GREAT ADDITION TO THE FAMILY.
DON'T WORRY-HE WON'T BE GETTING BUZZED WITH THE CLIPPERS!
THE HAIRCUT PROCESS
THE QUESTION: Who would like to surprise Daddy and shave their heads?
THE RESPONSES:
SPENCER : No thank you, not this time. (He's headed off to college next week. That was the right answer!)
ISAAC & PEARCE: YEAH!!!...well, I don't know...hmmm, should we?...will it look funny?...LET'S DO IT!!!
OUR GOOD FRIEND AND NEIGHBOR, DENISE, OFFERED TO BUZZ THE BOYS....WITH HER DOG CLIPPERS! THE BOYS THOUGHT THAT WOULD BE COOL!
THE BEFORE PICTURE. ONE LAST PHOTO WITH THEIR HAIR!
ISAAC ALWAYS WANTED A MOHAWK. HERE HE IS WITH ONE. IT LASTED FOR ABOUT 2 MINUTES. HE IS PRETENDING TO BE A ROCKER...HE ASKED IF HE COULD PLEASE KEEP IT....THE MAGIC WORD DIDN'T WORK THIS TIME!
PEARCE WENT WITH A DIFFERENT LOOK....YIKES! CAN WE SAY HE LOOKS A BIT LIKE BOZO THE CLOWN? WE ALL HAD A GOOD LAUGH AND THEN IT ALL CAME OFF!
THEY ARE PLEASED WITH THE OUTCOME. LOOKING GOOD!
SURPRISING DAD AT HIS PARTY! WHAT HANDSOME MEN...INCLUDING SPENCER WITH HIS BACK TO THE CAMERA....AND PROUDLY WEARING THE FULL HEAD OF HAIR!!
A FUN TIME HAD BY ALL!
THE RESPONSES:
SPENCER : No thank you, not this time. (He's headed off to college next week. That was the right answer!)
ISAAC & PEARCE: YEAH!!!...well, I don't know...hmmm, should we?...will it look funny?...LET'S DO IT!!!
OUR GOOD FRIEND AND NEIGHBOR, DENISE, OFFERED TO BUZZ THE BOYS....WITH HER DOG CLIPPERS! THE BOYS THOUGHT THAT WOULD BE COOL!
THE BEFORE PICTURE. ONE LAST PHOTO WITH THEIR HAIR!
ISAAC ALWAYS WANTED A MOHAWK. HERE HE IS WITH ONE. IT LASTED FOR ABOUT 2 MINUTES. HE IS PRETENDING TO BE A ROCKER...HE ASKED IF HE COULD PLEASE KEEP IT....THE MAGIC WORD DIDN'T WORK THIS TIME!
PEARCE WENT WITH A DIFFERENT LOOK....YIKES! CAN WE SAY HE LOOKS A BIT LIKE BOZO THE CLOWN? WE ALL HAD A GOOD LAUGH AND THEN IT ALL CAME OFF!
THEY ARE PLEASED WITH THE OUTCOME. LOOKING GOOD!
SURPRISING DAD AT HIS PARTY! WHAT HANDSOME MEN...INCLUDING SPENCER WITH HIS BACK TO THE CAMERA....AND PROUDLY WEARING THE FULL HEAD OF HAIR!!
A FUN TIME HAD BY ALL!
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Bruce's 50th Birthday Blast
Come and join in on the fun had by all at Bruce's Birthday Blast!
Click here: Bruce's 50th Slideshow
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
YEAH!
OHSU called Monday morning, told us that the computer problem was fixed and asked if Bruce could come up for treatment at 4:30? We quickly answered, "YES! YES! YES!" (It's not that Bruce was eager to have the treatment, he just wanted to get it over and done with as soon as possible.) What a specific answer to prayer! Bruce was nauseous for awhile, his scalp felt sunburned where they radiated and he was very tired last night. It will be nice for him to have a day of rest before the big celebration on Wednesday!
Bruce is done with radiation for awhile. He will go back in 4 weeks for another brain MRI. Our hope and prayer is that the tumors shrunk and there are no new growths. You can hope and pray with us!
Our next step is to contact Dr Curti, the immunotherapy specialist, to find out what Bruce's options are for systemic treatment for the rest of his body. We will keep you posted.
Spencer is packing and preparing to head off to George Fox University on August 23rd. YIKES...can this really be happening? He is so excited for this new adventure and can't wait to start living and experiencing the college life. The rest of the family is excited for him, also, but will miss him terribly!
Mikaela is a senior now and is looking forward to her last year of high school. She is getting tons of information on colleges and wants to go visit all of them....I can't go there quite yet...one kid at a time!
Isaac and Pearce are playing football this fall. They had a mini football camp last week, got all their equipment (no, Pearce, you cannot sleep in it) and will start team practices on the 20th. Isaac is quarterback for the 8th grade team and Pearce is a lineman for the 6th grade team. They love suiting up and playing in the backyard. We have to make sure Charlie is safe and sound inside!
Well, that's it for now. Smile lots, laugh loudly, hug those around you, say "I love you" as often as possible.....these are FREE resources available to everyone...and they NEVER RUN OUT!
ENJOY YOUR DAY!
Bruce is done with radiation for awhile. He will go back in 4 weeks for another brain MRI. Our hope and prayer is that the tumors shrunk and there are no new growths. You can hope and pray with us!
Our next step is to contact Dr Curti, the immunotherapy specialist, to find out what Bruce's options are for systemic treatment for the rest of his body. We will keep you posted.
Spencer is packing and preparing to head off to George Fox University on August 23rd. YIKES...can this really be happening? He is so excited for this new adventure and can't wait to start living and experiencing the college life. The rest of the family is excited for him, also, but will miss him terribly!
Mikaela is a senior now and is looking forward to her last year of high school. She is getting tons of information on colleges and wants to go visit all of them....I can't go there quite yet...one kid at a time!
Isaac and Pearce are playing football this fall. They had a mini football camp last week, got all their equipment (no, Pearce, you cannot sleep in it) and will start team practices on the 20th. Isaac is quarterback for the 8th grade team and Pearce is a lineman for the 6th grade team. They love suiting up and playing in the backyard. We have to make sure Charlie is safe and sound inside!
Well, that's it for now. Smile lots, laugh loudly, hug those around you, say "I love you" as often as possible.....these are FREE resources available to everyone...and they NEVER RUN OUT!
ENJOY YOUR DAY!
Saturday, August 11, 2007
The Latest
OK-we've had our little puppy, Charlie, for almost 2 weeks now and we are absolutely head-over-heels in love with him! It has been a bit of work to house and crate train him, but all is going relatively well. He has basically taken over the kitchen area (a nice, blocked off area), loves to wrestle with his toys, chase the kids around the back yard, nibble on Bruce's toes, snuggle in our laps, playfully jumps around licking our faces, sleeps through the night and is adored by all who meet him. When Pearce said, "Mom, I've always dreamed about having a dog-this is a dream come true".........I knew we had made the right decision! Thanks to our friends and neighbors who made this dream a reality!
Bruce had his 10th radiation treatment on July 31st. It has been nice to have some time off and give his body a much needed rest. Patches of his hair started falling out earlier this week (due to the radiation), so he went and had it all shaved off. He likes the new look and thinks he'll keep it this way! He is as handsome as ever!
He had a brain scan on Tues, Aug 7th, (in prep for future radiation) and went back to OHSU on Friday for a high dose "zap" on the new tumor. Well, there was some type of unexpected computer glitch. The techs worked very hard to figure it out and were unable to fix it. So, 2 1/2 hours later, we left without any treatment. But, it was not a wasted trip. It just so happened that a very good high school/college buddy of Bruce's (who lives near Portland) met us at OHSU. While Bruce was waiting in the treatment room (and having a great nap as the techs worked on things), Dave and I were able to visit. It was so nice not to be alone.....and it was extra fun to hear stories about Bruce's wild days in high school and college....NOT!
Bruce was bummed that he did not get his planned treatment. However, we had a great dinner at The Chart House and it was an absolute treat for Bruce to spend time with his buddy-remembering old times and being thankful for so much!! Thanks for a great evening, Dave!
Talking about old times.....BRUCE WILL BE 50 ON AUG 17TH! Bruce's 50th Birthday Bash Invitation was posted on the blog last week. All adults are welcome to come celebrate Bruce's half century mark. (Please read the Aug 6th post for specific details.) We will have another celebration with family and friends in Seattle later this month. More info on that later.
One specific prayer is that all the technical problems will be resolved quickly and that Bruce's treatment next week (not sure what day) will not interfere with his birthday celebration!
Big hugs to our family and friends who continue to love and support us faithfully through this trial. We are incredibly blessed, daily encouraged and forever grateful!
Love,
THE A TEAM
Bruce had his 10th radiation treatment on July 31st. It has been nice to have some time off and give his body a much needed rest. Patches of his hair started falling out earlier this week (due to the radiation), so he went and had it all shaved off. He likes the new look and thinks he'll keep it this way! He is as handsome as ever!
He had a brain scan on Tues, Aug 7th, (in prep for future radiation) and went back to OHSU on Friday for a high dose "zap" on the new tumor. Well, there was some type of unexpected computer glitch. The techs worked very hard to figure it out and were unable to fix it. So, 2 1/2 hours later, we left without any treatment. But, it was not a wasted trip. It just so happened that a very good high school/college buddy of Bruce's (who lives near Portland) met us at OHSU. While Bruce was waiting in the treatment room (and having a great nap as the techs worked on things), Dave and I were able to visit. It was so nice not to be alone.....and it was extra fun to hear stories about Bruce's wild days in high school and college....NOT!
Bruce was bummed that he did not get his planned treatment. However, we had a great dinner at The Chart House and it was an absolute treat for Bruce to spend time with his buddy-remembering old times and being thankful for so much!! Thanks for a great evening, Dave!
Talking about old times.....BRUCE WILL BE 50 ON AUG 17TH! Bruce's 50th Birthday Bash Invitation was posted on the blog last week. All adults are welcome to come celebrate Bruce's half century mark. (Please read the Aug 6th post for specific details.) We will have another celebration with family and friends in Seattle later this month. More info on that later.
One specific prayer is that all the technical problems will be resolved quickly and that Bruce's treatment next week (not sure what day) will not interfere with his birthday celebration!
Big hugs to our family and friends who continue to love and support us faithfully through this trial. We are incredibly blessed, daily encouraged and forever grateful!
Love,
THE A TEAM
Monday, August 6, 2007
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