Celebration of Life

Today Cheryl and I attended the funeral service for my mom, Phyllis Smith. While sad for those of us who will miss her being here with us, she was ready to go home and I know she is in a better place where there is no pain and no sorrow, only the joy of being at home with her Lord. I have been so blessed to have her as my mom for 63 years. It was a joy to celebrate her life today along with my two brothers and sister, their spouses, most of her 9 grandchildren and 9 greatgrandchildren, and so many of her friends and neighbors. It is clear that she made a positive difference for so many. We will miss her.

Cheryl's blood counts Friday were: platelets 38 (normal is 140 to 440), hemoglobin 8.2 (normal is 12 to 16), white count 5.3 (normal is 4.0 to 11). The platelets weren't high enough to get chemo. Her hemoglobin is low enough she will be getting red blood on Monday. Cheryl is hoping this will give her more energy. Right now she is feeling good while at rest, but just a short time standing or walking a few feet causes shortness of breath. We met with the cancer doctor Friday and decided to try chemo every other week. Cheryl will go in once a week for a blood test and if her numbers are good, she will get her chemo. If not we wait a week and try again. Keep thinking 80+. The doctor also scheduled a CT scan in two weeks so we can see how well her treatment is working. Her last scan was July 3rd in Houston. Thanks so much for your continued support. Ron

No chemo today

I thought I would update mom's blog since I am still here in Kansas City. Mom called and she did not get any chemo today. I don't have the number details, but thought I could at least update that they are done with the doctor and on their way to Holton. The girls and are will be leaving shortly, so we can get checked in at the motel before grandma's visitation tonight. It has been a trying time for our family over the past several months and we appreciate the continued love and support you all have shown us. Although we had to say goodbye to my grandma, she was ready to go "home" and made sure everyone knew that. She was at peace, and that is how she wanted it. We will miss her terrible, but will rejoice in the fact that she will be in our hearts forever. Stacey

Gone for the weekend

As many of you know, my mom, Phyllis Smith, died early Wednesday morning. Cheryl will be seeing her cancer doctor Friday at noon. If her blood counts are up, he may allow her to get chemo. Right after her appointment, we will be leaving for Holton for my mom's visitation Friday night and funeral on Saturday. Cheryl just wanted to let you know it will be late this weekend when we get back before we will report on her doctor's appointment. We appreciate your continued support. Think 80+! Ron

Weekends sure go fast!

Yes, I went to the softball games, 2 yesterday and one today. They got beat out in the semi-finals today. Jaden did a great job as. usual - nursing a sore knee because she doesn't slide, she dives into the bases. Went to jewelry party last night and had a good time and as promised, I did not do a thing. Good to see people and visit. The consultant gave me a scarf for my head (purple/gray) that matched my KSU shirt. Feeling great except for fatigue - stayed up late to watch KSU game last night. It was a beautiful weekend and I sure enjoyed getting outside. Oh! Jasmine did just fine driving to and from Leavenworth Friday night - once a parent, always a parent. Have a busy week with leg treatment 2 times, seeing primary doctor to get flu shots and cancer doc on Friday and we are again praying for "80". Thanks and love to all. Cheryl