12.28.11

The past several months have been life changing to say the least!  I have seen God's guidance, healing, and comfort grow in me through Jim and Matt's surgeries.  The last several months have also shown me something that I've tried to express in my other (personal) blog about enjoying and learning something every day for the blessings as well as the unexpected events that are in my 24-hour time frame.  My hope in His plan, and His way has grown stronger as well.

I can not say that I have had days throughout these last several months where my heart was heavy, the tears poured quickly from my eyes, but I can say with confidence, my Hope in the planned outcome never faltered.

I "preached my little sermon" to basically show you all that have been following this blog, that it is because of your prayers, support, encouragement we have all grown in our walk and are changed for the good because of these experiences.

Matt has been back at his condo since Christmas night and is doing well.  He will not be able to lift anything heavier than a typical grocery bag for some time and will not be able to start back to his exercise training for awhile as well, but he is able to drive and walk as often as possible.  He can begin his regular routine with the stipulations mentioned about.  He continues to listen to his body and over a period of time his stamina is getting better. He will be having followup visits with a local oncologist and regular followups with his internist as well as a yearly exam with Dr. Lavu (Jefferson-surgeon) for the next 5 years.  As we have mentioned to Matt, God has great plans for his life.  He has a definite purpose in mind for just Matt.  Matt definitely realizes this and sees how blessed his life truly is and is looking forward to the adventures that are coming his way. GIG

Jim continues to do well and we have an appointment this Friday which is not only a regular transplant appointment, but we are looking forward to getting the biopsy results from Jim's 3-month routine kidney biopsy procedure.  We are not expecting any issues and are thankful for how things continue to progress for Jim.  He continues to work on building his stamina and he is very compliant, as he was before his surgery...all signs of uneventful, success recovery.

Thank you for the prayers, thoughts, encouragements.  This will probably be one of the last posts I will do on this particular blog.  I'd love for you to follow my babblings on my personal blog if you choose to from time-to-time.  http://livingrlivestogether.blogspot.com/

May you look forward to the blessings, known and unknown that are planned for you and yours in 2012.  God is in control and I'm so thankful that He is.

~Tina

12.22.11

Updating on both today.

Jim:- his biopsy went well. He is in a short-stay private room for the next several hours as he will be monitored. We will then be able to return home. We have our regular transplant appointment next Friday morning and we should have all or most of the results from the biopsy. Though Jim is a bit sore at the site, all is going exactly as expected. GIG

Matt:- he had a good appointment with his surgeon. The drainage tube was removed!! He must be ver cautious about lifting and training for the next several months, but he is able to drive and start back to his regular activities for the most part. He will have several follow up appointments throughout the next several years. All things look very good for Matt. The fatigue will get better with time for Matt. GISG

Thank you for the ongoing thoughts and prayers.

Have a blessed holiday season!

-Tina

12.15.11

Exactly one month about this afternoon Matt under went his major surgery.  Today he returned to his surgeon for a check up.  He had a CT as well as an office visit.  The CT showed that all the area is healing very nicely and he is doing very well.  Dr. Lavu decided to remove the tube from the pancreas but not from his side cavity at this time.  Though we were hoping that he would have drainage tube removed completely today, it is comforting to have a doctor that errs on the side of cautiousness.  Matt is to call Dr. Lavu's office on Tuesday and most likely the tube will be removed next Thursday. 

Timing throughout all of this time of recovery for both Jim and Matt, have been the hardest thing for me personally to come to grips with.  This recent visit is no difference.  Jim is scheduled for his 3-month kidney biopsy next Thursday, so thankfully our daughter and/or son-in-love, Megan and/or Lindsay will be taking Matt back to Jefferson next Thursday.  All indications are looking like the tube will be removed at that time.  Matt will be able to drive when the tube is removed.  He is dealing with this recent news pretty well, though he too is feeling better to a degree and is ready to be working on complete healing, which willl progress to that status when the tube is completely removed. 

My timing is obviously not the barometer to gage their recoveries, but I'm so thankful that God's timing is perfect.  He has guided me as the caretaker since the beginning of Jim's recovery and I'm thankful I've allowed Him to continue guiding through Matt's recovery. Keep those prayers coming and again we are thankful for the ongoing support.

Check out our year-in-review letter on my personal blog. ( http://livingrlivestogether.blogspot.com/ ) Have a great holiday season.

~Tina

12.8.11

Matt:

This morning Matt had his visit to Jefferson and things are looking and going great!  He will continue to have the drainage tube, but is suppose to call the office Tuesday or Wednesday with the amounts that are continuing to come from the drain.  This is a normal process with the pancreatic fluid and though we all have some fluid that are pancreas absorbs, the cc's need to be considerably less and consistent, before the surgeon removes the last tube.  This tube is actually allowing Matt to heal and stay healthy since the fluid is not building up in his body at this time while the pancreas and surrounding area continues to heal.  If the levels are at the range that the surgeon wants, Matt will again go up to Jefferson possibly next Thursday for the removal, but it might not be until the following week. All will depend on the phone "visit" in the middle of next week. 
The traveling to and from Jefferson in Philadelphia was not as hard on Matt this week.  Again, a sign of gaining strength and improvement.  He is resting now. His pain is minimal and that too is a great improvement over last Thursday's visit.
Matt is looking very good as well, his appetite is good, though he eats much smaller portions and a few snacks now between, which is a good "new way of eating".  We are so thankful for how his road to recovery is going.  Keep the prayers coming and pray specifically that the pancreas heals enough that the tube will be able to be removed later next week, but not too soon for any type of setbacks.  He is only allowed to walk for exercise at this time.  He is 3 weeks post-op and doing remarkably well.  GIG

I am thankful and grateful indeed,

~Tina

12.5.11

Several good days are happening here!! Matt is doing well and he is improving nicely.  Though he tires easy, he started going for walks at the mall before it opens with Jim as well as some walks around our development with me. He has been able to sleep through the night the last several nights as well..  His pain is manageable and his draining tube is doing exactly what it is suppose to do and doesn't seem to be as irritating to his skin as previous weeks.  Tomorrow it will be 4 weeks he had his surgery and 3 weeks post-op home.  He is healing exactly as his surgeon had hoped.  We are so thankful for his ongoing recovery and results.  It is good to see color in his face and brightness back in his eyes as he continues to get stronger and stronger. Matt had some good friends visiting with him Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon as well as individuals who are providing several meals for us to eliminate some of the "load" in being a full-time care giver; I am so thankful for all (especially Jim, Megan and Lindsay for all their assistance whenever asked and even when I don't).

Jim is doing well and though he states he is working part-time, he tends to work longer days on the days that he works now, and as long as he can manage it, that is okay!  His recovery is going very well and will be an ongoing process for several months. 

How thankful we are for all the blessings God has giving our family this year.  Please go over to my personal blog and enjoy our annual "end-of-the-year" newsletter.  I don't know how people handle the uncertainties of life and even some expectancies without a strong faith and network.  Thank you "special network", you are a blessing to me and my entire family.

~Tina
http://livingrlivestogether.blogspot.com/

12.2.11

Jim:  Today he had his appointment at the Transplant Center and his numbers are right where they need to be!! GIG We received the information needed for his upcoming routine 3-month kidney biopsy, which is scheduled for Thursday, Dec 22nd.  He got the okay today, to "carefully" pick up our grandson, Jackson now and he is thrilled about it.  I also mentioned to him that since he is able to do that, the garbage cans weigh about that or less when they are full and need to be taken to the end of the curb Thursday evenings, LOL!!  Our wonderful neighbor has been doing it for us for several weeks now since he saw me doing it right after Jim's transplant.  He and Jim didn't want me doing it, which was very sweet of both of them.  Jim doesn't return to the transplant center until the day of the biopsy.  We have a holiday get-together next Tuesday with the transplant center and we are looking forward to seeing several and only wish our "angel"  and hubby would be able to attend with us, but Stephanie and Bobby live too far away to travel up this early for the small get-together.  They are planning on being in the Hershey area over the Christmas break for a few days and we look forward to spending some time with them when they are in this "neck-of-the-woods".

Matt:  It's been 2 1/2 weeks since his surgery and he has been home 1 1/2 weeks.  Most of those days since he has been  home have been more good days then not.  We are so thankful for those days and his healing process.  He does have a long road ahead with his healing, but he is moving in the right direction.  Yesterday, with his visit and exam, which was in Philly at Jefferson, he got very tired and needed the rest of yesterday and all of today to get feeling less weak.  He also has had a little more pain yesterday and today, which is extremely normal after having an exam and having to travel back and forth to inner city Philadelphia for his doctor's visit.  He is looking wonderful and we are thankful that there hasn't been any signs of infection or problems to this point.  We are so thankful for the reports of his biopsy and how everything showed all-clean margins and no cancer in the 20-lymph nodes that they took along with his spleen and tip of the pancreas and tumor.  GISG.

May your weekend be one of enjoying "the little things", those are the precious and most important.  It is sometimes hard to see them with all the hurrying that goes on in our daily lives. Being an "extreme" care-giver for the last few months I've come to appreciate the daily little things and see the importance of them.

~Tina
"...as you help us by your prayers. Then many will give thanks on our behalf for the gracious favor granted us in answer to the prayers of many." ~2Cor. 1:11

12.1.11

December is starting out to be a great month!!  This morning Matt had his 2-week appointment at Jefferson with his surgeon.  He got his results back and the pathology report was very good.  No cancer.  The tumor that was removed was cancer, but the lymph nodes were clean and all surrounding areas of the tumor and nodes were clean.  He will be monitored for prevention purposes for about 5 years on a yearly basis (I believe). Dr. Lavu, said this is the best possible outcome and how thankful we should all be for the kidney stone episode in August that enabled this tumor to be found and removed!!  He will continue to have the last drainage tube for another week.  He has an appointment next Thursday morning and the tube should be removed at that time.  We are so thankful for the ongoing prayers and support.  Matt still has a recovery period ahead of him and he is doing very well.  Dr. Lavu was very pleased.  God continues to cover Matt and we are thankful for His Will being ours through this whole process.  Jim and I are still coming to terms that our 29-year old son is a "cancer-survivor"! 

Over flowing with joy,

Tina

11.29.11

Matt described today as "the best day since I had my surgery"!  He is doing very well and we are looking forward to his appointment this coming Thursday morning with his surgeon.  Keep the prayers coming that he'll have the draining tube removed on Thursday and for the results of his surgery.  He continues to get a bit stronger each day.  He still tires easy, but as I have told him, it's only been 2 weeks tomorrow that you had this major surgery.  He was able to work a bit on his doctoral class today as well!  He is amazing!!

Today Matt had another caretaker to assist me...it was Jackson, who took very good care of his Uncle Matt.  He had him look through books with him, as Jackson  "read" to Uncle Matt, and also had times of play and he had Uncle Matt feed him breakfast and they both ate their lunch together at the table.  LOL

Thank you for the delicious meals that are being prepared for us this week and next.  The timing of the meals is perfect.  Thank you for the prayers and keep them coming.  We will update on Thursday when we have more information after Matt's appointment.

Jim continues to grow stronger.  He too tires, but not like the fatigue before the kidney transplant, it is a different type.  Tomorrow it will be 9 weeks since they transplant! He has been working 3-5 hours a day 4 days a week and is getting back into the swing of that as well.  He also works from home several hours on email, etc.  He is doing very well and we are so thankful for how well the kidney is working. 

Our angel is doing well and is adjusting to her times of fatigue, which has lessened over the last several weeks.  She continues to work full-time and sounds wonderful.  We plan to see her and Bobby over the holiday break, if all plans go the way we hope.  Thank you for the prayers for Stephanie and Bobby, they have such servant hearts and we're blessed to have them in our lives.

~Tina

Side-Note: (looking forward to watching an all-time favorite on tv...Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer with Matt in a few minutes.  I know, for the most part, the entire show by heart.  Own it on DVD, but watch it on tv most every year.  Last year Jackson watched it with me, this year he'll watch it on DVD with me since he will be in bed when it is on.)   The little things in life that give us pleasure!!!

11.27.11

What a full few days!  Sunday is usually considered "a day of rest", but this week it will be Monday for Matt and I !!  Great long weekend, with visitors and family.  All good, but tiring for sure.  His recovery is going well, but a day of R&R is what this caretaker is ordering for him tomorrow (LOL). 

The weekend was filled with lots of laughter, catching up, as well as enjoying just being together with our family.  It's almost a shame to see the weekend end. It was great to hear Matt enjoying time with some of his close friends throughout this weekend as well as time with his sister and brother-in-law and grandparents.  They get along so well and hearing the conversation, joking and laughting with his friends brought back times when our home was the place for the "kids to all hang-out at".

Matt has been sleeping well at night and doing some more walking. We heard from the on-call physician and we were able to change the padding around the wires of his drainage tube, which was definitely needed.  His drainage area is looking very well, but the tape was in need of being changed because of getting it wet with showering, etc.  We didn't want to do that without hearing from someone at Jefferson.  As before, if he spikes a fever we are to immediately get treatment, but he has been without fever since he has been home, which will be a week tomorrow!!  He has an appointment this week with his surgeon and we are looking forward to what the surgeon has to say about his recovery at this point.  Matt is eating more solid foods now and is doing very well with them.  This has enabled his strength to continue to improve as he heals.  His incision looks fabulous and will hardly be noticed when it is all healed.  Dr. Lavu did an amazing job!  We are again, so thankful for his expertise. He has a great God-given talent as a surgeon.

As you can see Matt is doing very well and we are thankful.  The boys all stayed here at the house this afternoon, while Megan and I continued to get most of our shopping done.  Jim, Matt, and Lindsay all took Jackson for a walk this afternoon.  Sounds like a movie title..."3 Men and a baby"!  LOL  Jackson had a fun time and all got some fresh air and a bit of exercise.

What a thankful-grateful heart I have!

~Tina

11.25.11

Matt is doing remarkably well.  We had a bit of an issue yesterday when he started having some pain and swelling and redness on his side area, but today it is almost normal and the pain is much less or gone.  We thought we would have to travel to Jefferson today, but since he is much better and we did not hear back from the on-call physician, we will just hold off until Matt's appointment with his personal surgeon on Thursday.  Matt definitely plans to discuss this particular situation with his doctor on Thursday due to not hearing back from the on-call personnel.  Thankful that he is doing so well.

Matt went for a much longer walk today and he is really doing and looking less drained with good color in his face and no fever (thank you Lord) since he came home on Monday.  Last night was a great night sleep for him (first truly since he had his surgery) and though he tires easier right now, he is improving every day. 

Though we didn't have grand plans for Thanksgiving, I must say it was one of the best ever.  We had a lovely dinner (thank you to Megan making over half of the meal), and then an afternoon of football and just enjoying being with each other.  Some napping, lots of laughing and just "being".  I enjoyed just looking at my husband, who is doing great from his recent kidney transplant, our daughter and son-in-love, who continue to do anything and everything, most times without even saying a word, our son, Matt, how is healing so nicely and gaining strength daily, and the pure joy that Jackson, our grandson gives all of us, just being, JACKSON!!  Like I said, one of the best ever!!  GISG

If fact today, Jim, Matt and Lindsay insisted that Megan and I go do some shopping and just spend the day and not think about anything but just getting out and about! We stayed in contact through cell messages and Megan and I had a great day down in Rehoboth at the outlets.  We left around 10:00 a.m this morning and arrived home around 6:00 p.m.  I mentioned to Megan that it has been since the middle of September that I have gone and done something for such a long period of time, and not think at all about the time or having to hurry and get back home.  SO thankful for the men on our lives.

Enjoy this holiday weekend and make sure through the hustle and bustle of this time, you don't like precious blessings, such as "just being" pass you by.  Those little things ART the most important things.

Keep the prayers coming!

Thankful for you,
~Tina

11.22.11

Today it is exactly one week since Matt's major surgery!  He had a decent night sleep and he has had a very good day today. Not much more to share today, but I know that many want progress of his days.  He made his appointment to see Dr. Lavu (his surgeon) next Thursday morning.  At that time, we are praying that the draining tube will be removed and we should receive the report from his surgery on the biopsy results.

Next week we have food preparations being done for us from some very close friends, church members from Newark church as well as some of Matt's co-workers from Wilmington University.  Even though the meals are not starting until next week, we want to say THANK YOU for these provisions, it truly helps me out as the care-giver to not be concerned about a meal preparation for several days at a time.  We are blessed by your servant hearts!  Matt has truly enjoyed the cards and words of encouragement. 

A special thank you to our wonderful daughter, Megan for providing several meals for us this week as well as making all the side dishes for our Thanksgiving meal this coming Thursday. Also to our son-in-love, Lindsay for doing anything we need done, that I'm not able to move, lift, arrange, due to it being too heavy, etc.  These things mean so much to me, Jim and Matt at this time.  A very special thank-you to our grandson, Jackson, who, at 13 months, keeps us all smiling with his precious walking, talking, playing, smiling ways!

Have a great Thanksgiving and may you be thankful every day of the year, not just one Thursday in the month of November!

Blessed and Thankful,

Tina

11.21.11 HE IS HOME!!!!

November 15th, Matt went to Jefferson University Hospital and had a Distal Pancreatectomy and Splenectomy and today, November 21st, he is HOME!!!  Amazing!! We have only great things to say about Dr. Lavu and the staff in the surgical ICU and Floor 13 of the Pavilion Blg.  They made our time away from Matt stress-free, because our family new that Matt was in very capable hands.  The friendliness of Jefferson was equal to the warmth we felt at Christiana Hospital when Jim had his recent surgery, which is a smaller facility, and we would definitely recommend others to Dr. Lavu and his staff.

 Jim and I both had some concerns about the long trip home from Philadelphia, but Matt did great!  He has had a good day since getting home around noon and we are praying that he has a good night sleep as well.  He looks remarkable.  SO thankful that he is home.  Every day will be a day of getting stronger.  There will be days, as Matt mentioned in the previous blog note that may not be as good of a day as another, but he is moving in the right direction since last Tuesday each day and for that we are grateful indeed.

Happy to have all my family back in Delaware!

~Tina

We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.  ~Thornton Wilder

11.20.11 Thoughts from Matt

Today was a day of learning for me.  Having never gone through anything like this you "relearn" things that you knew once again by going through something like this...it's a process!

I am excited to be going home tomorrow and so happy about the progress so far.  Even though there were no major moving forward or set backs, I was in a lot of discomfort today. Some was the surgery and some is just normal things (like my back starting to be sore from sitting and laying so much).  I went for a walk with my mom at the end of the 1:00 football game and as we began to walk a rush of discomfort and pain began in the surgical area site.  I quickly told mom I had to go back to the room and sit down.  The pain ended up being nothing, but it was a good reminder to me: there will be good days and there will be not as good days.  It's like an Eagles season (except I will succeed in my goals and don't have a terrible backup QB starting for me)...that was my attempt at humor...sorry I am still pretty drugged!

So all of this is to say thank you for your care, concerns, and constant supports, thoughts, and prayers for me.  All of that unwavering support will get me through the days that I will continue to recover and those days that I do not recover as fast and to my ultimate goal of complete recovery...

~Matt

"Side comment from mom:  Matt had a good day, though he didn't see much progress today. He feels better with soft food or liquids over "regular food" (that is okay at this stage of his recovery).  He is tube free, except for one draining tube for his pancreas that will come home with him and he is also on several medications (which for him is very odd, since he has not been on many medications throughout his adult life), for regulating "this and that".  He truly is doing well, though he has a time or two throughout his days where he feels a bit "yucky".  Unfortunately, it's all the process of healing after a major surgery. All signs point to him coming home tomorrow!!  Prayers are so appreciated as we move into the next stage of Matt's recovery."

11.19.11- You asked if we need anything

I was so excited to share the picture and how good of a day Matt had that I forgot to mention that, as we have to do with Jim we will also need to be cautious with Matt and being exposed to colds, flu, etc.  He is more susceptible to getting infections due to his surgery, since he had his spleen removed.  There is a good possibility that Matt will be discharged on Monday!! With this being shared, visits will be welcomed, but please call first (our home) and if you have any type of sniffles, sneezes, etc, we want you to wait to come to visit.  Protecting is definitely one of the definitions of being a care-giver and our family will be protective  of our loved ones still recovering for sure. 

We are so grateful for all your love and support and ongoing thoughts and prayers.  Several of you have asked about meals  and if you are interested in making a meal for our family, please contact Matt's sister, Megan, who is organizing some meals for about 2 weeks starting the week after Thanksgiving, through the Newark church as well as Wilmington University. A BIG THANK YOU TO ALL who have committed to making a meal already!    If you need Megan's information, but ask me through an email, text or facebook.

We are very humbled by the outpouring for our family throughout the last several weeks!  We're blessed beyond meausre because of you blessing us!

11.19.11

Matt had a restful, productive 4th day pre-op, after a night of not much sleep due to discomfort.  He looked remarkably better when we saw him today.  His color is good and he is no longer connected to the IV's and several other things.  He continues to struggle with discomfort with eating meals, but this will get better with time.  Things are going well with his recovery.  He did not have a fever while we were with him at all today.  He was able to rest, which is what we wanted for him today and he walked "laps" several times. 

Later in the afternoon, he had a great visit with Megan, Lindsay and Jackson.  The picture below says it all.  Uncle Matt loves Jackson and Jackson loves his Uncle Matt. Jackson is definitely the best medicine for Matt.  As a dear friend said to me when she saw the picture below: "Nothing like a little soul to heal a big soul!"  Our dear son-in-love took this picture and every time I see it I fill up with tears!  Jim and I are so blessed with such a connected family.  God has been so good to us.

Keep the prayers coming as every day Matt is getting stronger and the healing process is continuing.

~Tina

3rd day post-op 11/18/11

Matt:

He is doing well.  He continues to walk more each day and is up in a chair longer as well.  His fever was, for the most part, normal all day.  We are praying that this evening it does not spike up again like last night.  Matt was given "real food" today for his meals.  He took some of the food in rather than the liquid diet.  He will do well with this in time, but he has alot of  discomfort after eating small portions of the "real food".  This process will take some time and once again we will need to "wait" for an easier outcome with food of consistency.  All-in-all, Matt is doing remarkable for now day-3 from surgery!  GISG. 

Since he is in some discomfort we are asking that he has no visitors tomorrow (Saturday).  Rest and doing what he needs to do while in the hospital is the best thing for Matt at this time.  PLEASE check in with me about visiting while he is at the hospital and when we first bring him here to our home for his complete recovery process.  He is getting stronger in many ways, though they are little ways, he doesn't see them yet, but he will.  We do and we're so happy for his progress!

Jim:

Jim had his appointment today.  He is now 7 1/2 weeks post op his kidney transplant.  He continues to do well and at this point we are working on regulating his one medication because of a minor symptom that he is dealing with. He still is not able to lift more than 10lbs, etc.  He is amazing and we again, are so thankful!!!  He is scheduled for his 3-month (routine) kidney biopsy for Dec 22nd.  This is a kidney biopsy that is done at 3 and 6 months to make sure the kidney is not having any issues and especially any rejection problems.  The first 6 months are critical for Jim and his kidney and all signs point to a great outcome. GISG He returns to the transplant team again in two weeks.

As you can see they are both doing well at the stages of their recovery that they are at.  THANK YOU for your support, love and especially thoughts and prayers for them and our family.

Also a side-note, our angel, Stephanie, has been continuing to work fulltime and deals with fatigue from time to time, but continues to do very well.  Again, we are SO thankful for her and Bobby and having them in our "family".

God has truly watched over us all throughout this time of surgery, healing and recovery!

~Tina

11.17.11

Matt: Matt is in a private room on a regular floor as of lunchtime today.  He is doing well except for having itching from the Morphine and he continues to have a fever that comes and goes.  Tonight it is at 101, so I'm asking for prayers that this issue will subside.  The doctor mentioned to us and Matt today that this particular procedure along with some other factors can cause a low-grade fever for a few days.  He is doing very well over-all and we are VERY thankful for this. 

Today besides his several walks down the aisles and his ice chips, he was given a lunch tray (all liquids), which went okay for the little bit he "ate".  He is to go VERY slowly with "meals" at this time and this process will be for awhile, as heal continues to heal from the inside out.  He also played a game of cards with Megan this afternoon and had a few close friends stop by for a short visit later in the afternoon and evening.  So you can see he is doing super for just being out of major surgery in less than 48-hours.

We are so thankful for all the prayers and the encouragement.

Jim: Tomorrow is Friday and we meet with the transplant team for Jim's appointment and then we'll make our way up to Jefferson to be with Matt for the rest of the day.  Jim is doing well and we look forward to his appointment tomorrow morning.

Again, thank you for your support and love!

	"The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy." Psalms 126:3

~Tina

less than 24-hours post-op-Day 1

Day 1-post-op:

Sharing with you exact words from Matt: 

"Thank you everyone for the messages, prayers, and support. Each one gave me a sense of peace throughout the procedure. I am recovering well and gaining more strength each hour. Today I walked the hall and sat up in a chair and started having ice chips...tomorrow we will try to go to more liquids and more walks. Thanks again for your love, support, and prayers."

~Tina

11.15.11

You all know the statement, "beauty is in the eye of the beholder"! This evening I witnessed a most precious site; our son Matt in his ICU bed, though in discomfort and groggy, he was the best sight I witnessed in several long hours!!! GISG

His doctor, Dr. Lavu, stated the sugery went very well and he expects Matt to have a good recovery. At this time, he will be in the hospital for 6-7 days. He will be in ICU for a day or so, and then in a private room. The nurse that is working with Matt is very attentive and personable as was his surgeon and those in the waiting area.

We are filled with many emotions tonight and we are so thankful for how Matt is doing at this time. Jim, who is seven weeks post-op from this kidney transplant, was able to rest in a quiet room area in the waiting room and did very well with this LONG WAITING DAY!! GIG

We made reseverations that Jefferson offers to family members at a local Holiday Inn Express and we are only 3 blocks from Matt for the night. We were so thankful to have our family together as we waited, and waited, and waited for Matt to be in his room and the procedure to be finished. We are blessed to have such a close knit family and it was very evident today just how closely knit we are. Not every one can say that. We can and it is a blessing indeed.

Thank you for you ongoing prayers and support! I will really get to know my way around the side streets of Philly these next several days. We keep you all informed when I can throughout Matt's recovery process.

~Tina

Got the call!

Just a quick update.  I just heard from Matt and he received the call that he is to report to Jefferson by 11:00 a.m.  The surgeon had a change in his schedule, so Matt's surgery will begin when we originally thought it would be finished.  It's good to know that we have a definite time.  Keep the prayers coming.  ...and so we wait!  I should be good at this by now.

~Tina

11.14.11

Today is the day before Matt's Pancreatic eendocrine cancer tumor w/ spleen removal.  After a full weekend for Matt and two wonderful meals the end of last week and this weekend with some of his closest friends, Matt begins his prep for tomorrow's surgery. Thank you for being there and continuing to support Matt!  He will be on an all liquid diet from now until the surgery, which we will receive word this evening what time he is to report.  We do know that he will be the surgeon's only surgery, so that is a very good thing and now we "just wait".  It's just one of my very strong points...waiting...NOT, but it truly is becoming one trait that I have learned to accept (which is a good thing) and though I don't enjoy waiting, I do so with less anxiety than previous events in my life!  It is amazing how God teaches us through times when we don't think we're able to learn anything from the experience.

We think Matt's surgery will be sometime in the morning, so we covet your prayers for those hours while he is in surgery and throughout his recovery!   I plan to post when I can and will keep you informed with updates.  His surgery will be in Philadelphia at Jefferson University Hospital, so we will be traveling there daily while he is in the hospital, about a 50 min trip (give or take traffic).  Prayers for Matt, his surgeon and the surgeon's team, for us as we "wait".  We know what the power of prayer can do!! As a mother rather than a wife for this next surgery in our lives, my heart is tugged at a very different spot than when waiting on Jim's transplant surgery. Again, thanks for the prayers on our behalf.

Jim is able to attend Matt's surgery, but this will be a very long day for him as he too is still recovering from his transplant. Megan and Lindsay will also be there for the "wait" and we are all so thankful that Mom/Mamaw was able to come down from PA and have a Mamaw/Jackson day on Tuesday so we will all be together supporting each other as Matt is in surgery.  Jim is doing very well and is very good at knowing when he needs to rest and when he can work, exercise, etc.  His recovery is going very well. We can't thank "our angel" Stephanie enough for her gift! GISG

~Tina

"Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." ~Phil 4: 5-7

11.8.11

Next week this time, the recovery will have begun: Matt will have surgery the morning of Tuesday, November 15, to remove a cancerous tumor in the tail of his pancreas. The procedure will be approx 4-5 hours. Please pray that the surgery goes well and he is completely healed with this procedure.  The surgery will be performed at Jefferson Hospital (Main Building, Chestnut and 10th Street) in Philadelphia. Matt will be in the hospital for 5-7 days, after his discharge he will be healing at our home. All correspondence should be sent to our home address since Matt will be here for several weeks.

Thank you again for all your support and ongoing prayers!

Jim continues to do well and he has gone back to work a few hours a day, in fact today he was there a little longer than his "personal physician" would have liked--ME, but he did fine!  LOL  Also, Stephanie, our angel-donor has been back at work fulltime for about 2 weeks now and is doing fabulously!  GISG

Thank you again for all the support, love and prayers for our family.

~Tina

11.4.11

Next appointment with the transplant team:  11/18/11, that's right 2 weeks from today (bloodwork as well), rather than weekly. Everything is going very well and only minor adjustments in his medication.  We are very thankful.  He can add a few more exercises to his day, but still not to lift above the limited amount.  He will go to his next visit without me, because that will be the Friday that Matt will still be at Jefferson Hospital healing after his upcoming surgery on Nov 15th.  The prayers for healing are so appreciated.  ~Thank you

~Tina

11.3.11

Today marks the first day that Jim went back to work at Wilmington University, on a VERY part-time basis.  He felt good about it and had a very good morning.  The support that Jim is getting from WU is amazing.  He will continue to do some work from home, but his main goal is the heal and gain his strength back so he can go back to fulltime status after the holidays.  Knowing Jim, I'm sure his hours in the office may stay according to "our agreement", but he'll work more hours from home.



The "Leaf Whisper"

Tomorrow is Friday and we meet with the transplant team to review Jim's progress.  We do not expect major changes to "the plan".  This week Jim went to another level of his strength and healing. I decided to just go do "some racking" on Tuesday late afternoon for some exercise and then I planned to get our tractor and swoop up the leaves to discard them in the woods way behind our property.  I needed Jim's assistance (showing me how to hook things up, etc) in getting the tractor ready for leaf removal and he said he wanted to "try to drive the tractor" at a very low speed and if he had any discomfort he would immediately stop driving the tractor, since it was only 5 weeks post-op his transplant!  He didn't have any issues and he truly enjoyed the time outside and on the tractor.  We got our back done in no time. He wasn't even sore/stiff, uncomfortable; I can't say the same for me, LOL!!  I need to rake more often I suppose, because walking isn't enough for this "old body" of mine :-D 

The count down has begun for our son, Matt and his upcoming surgery.  Today it is 12 days until his Tuesday, November 15th pancreatic cancer surgery.  He is preparing his work schedule for his recovery time off as well as getting questions ready for his upcoming pre-op visit this coming Tuesday, the 8th of November.  As with Jim's surgery, the reality begins to get more prevelant the closer to the time of the "event".  As a wife through the first event, my emotions were much different than they are at this time with our son having surgery.  We are so thankful for the keen eye and early detection of the professionals that caught this spot for Matt.  This is not a type of surgery that is common in a almost 30-year old otherwise healthy young man.  We are grateful that this is getting taking of so quickly and truly want it to be behind all of us.  As mentioned previously, Matt will be recoverying at our home rather than his condo in Wilmington.

Continue to keep my two "boys" in your prayers as one continues to recover and the other prepares for his upcoming surgery and recovery.  Our family covet your prayers and support.

So thankful for all the good things God provides for our family, through your prayers, encouragement, support and love.  My gratitude is great!

~Tina

10.31.11

Updates are short and sweet:  YEA!!!  GISG  JIM: Jim is doing well and getting stronger each day.  I am so amazed at the level of his fatigue now after his transplant.  He tires, but he doesn't have "that fatigue".  It is hard to describe, but the fatigue caused by his kidney failure was severe.  He is doing amazing.  He also was extremely satisfied with the outcome of the Sunday night football game between the Eagles and Dallas!!!   We'll take a WIN any time the Eagles will give us a WIN and what a WIN it was!!!

Thanks for the prayers during Jim's recovery.  He is planning on going to work for a few hours this coming Thursday and will see how things go.  He is very happy to be able to drive (as I am as well), and be "more independent.  He is doing little projects and has been able to "catch up" on some readings and things. 

MATT: Is doing great and has his pre-op appointment on the 8th of November.  His surgery is Tuesday, November 15th  at Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia, and we covet your prayers and thoughts, as the surgery will be approximately 6 hours.  Prayers for his recovery and that what they have said about his cancerous small spot, will be just that (surgery, recovery, finished)!  He feels great and again, we are SO thankful for the kidney stone episode (in August) to make the professionals aware of a "situation" at such an early stage.  GISG.  Matt will be recovery at our home, so feel free to send him notes of encouragement, ect to our mailing address. He will be home approx 5-7 days after his surgery. Anyone in need of our home address can contact me through my email or facebook accounts.

Time for treating our trick-or-treaters!  Have a great week.  More updates later and thanks for the support and love for our family.  We are humbled by your love!

~Tina

10.28.11-One Month and a few days!

Jim's appt went very well today. Blood pressure, weight, and kidney function is all good!!  He can drive now!!  He still can only lift 10lbs for awhile.  He plans to go back to work on a very part-time basis this coming Thursday. We see the team next Friday with bloodwork Thursday morning.

Keep the prayers coming! Stephanie had her one month check up today in Texas and she is doing very well.  We were so thankful to hear from her and that she is doing so well today!  GIG

Matt's pre-op visit is November 8th (Lindsay and Megan will be married 3 years on that day)and his surgery is the 15th at Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia. Keep those prayers flowing for him, as I know you will.

Thanks for the ongoing support, love, encouragement, and prayers.

~Tina  Psalm 55:22

Update on Matt from August until October

Dear friends and family we are asking you to keep those prayers coming and to add our son to your thoughts and prayers as he will be having surgery on November 15th for the removal of a small cancerous tumor at his pancreas. Matt has given me permission to share this next adventure with you all on this blog, so from time to time I will update you on how his journey is going.  He is doing great and is thankful to get this all behind him and move on with his rich, full, life. I'm honored to share our stories with you all.

The need for this surgery was discovered when Matt was having extreme pain and sickness and Jim and Lindsay took him to the Christiana ER.  We found out that he was having a kidney stone attack and he passed one of the stones that weekend, praise God!  He still has another one, but that may never cause him any issues.  When he was at the ER they did a CT to see if their diagnosis was correct (yes it was a kidney stone) and while doing that CT they noticed a shadow near his pancreas. We are SO THANKFUL for the kidney stone attack.  Matt, having no issues, would still not know that he was in need of surgery without the trip to the ER that August evening!

Below are some entries of prayer requests that I have been making to my prayer sistas, which will update you on the process of our newest journey:

 Sept 12- Today Matt received word that his bloodwork came back fine!  Giving God the praise for this answered prayer!!  Keep the prayers coming.  Matt should hear from someone at Jefferson Hospital about scheduling the endoscopic ultrasound w/ biopsy by Wednesday.  If he does not, he is suppose to call the gastro-physician Dr. Hoskins(spell ?) and his office will talk to Jefferson.  This is an outpatient procedure and we are praying that it will be sooner rather than later because of the time crunch with the transplant on the 27th.  GISG ~Tina  

Sept 20 - I wanted to let my prayer sistas know Matt finally got the procedure started around 1:45 and it took approx an hour.  Then recovery.  Traffic is terrible coming home for Philly.  There is definitely something there and the biopsy will be sent out (of course) and Matt should call next Tuesday (the day of Jim's transplant), but there is a good possibility that the results won't be in for 2 weeks (the following Tuesday).  The area, or "it" as we are calling it. is small about 2cm or less.  We were not given much else about "it", so we'll continue to give it to God (that's the hard part for me and my controlling and fixing personality) and wait (which is another lesser quality of possess).  THANK YOU for your continued prayers for Matt and for our family and Stephanie and her family. Stephanie will be getting into DE this evening for the "next event". GIG  ~Tina

Sept 26- Prayer Warriors, I need you to do some more specific praying for the Wilson Clan.  Matt got his test results back from the pancreas biopsy today and though it could be ALOT worse, the news isn't really what I was praying for at this point and time.  Matt has a Pancreatic Endocrine Tumor (cancerous), which is slow growing and with surgery (removal) he will be cancer-free.  There will be no need for chemo or radiation.  The area, as we said from the biopsy is small, so it seems to be contained.  Matt is waiting to hear from a Jefferson's surgeon about the process to get rid of "it".  We are thankful that because of his kidney stone episode in August, this was found so very early.  The timing isn't wonderful with Jim's surgery tomorrow, and I feel like my plate is fuller than I can possibly carry without dropping things, but God knows the amount we can handle, and He will help hold my "plate".  As for tomorrow's "event".  We report at 5 and Jim's surgery will begin around 9.  Stephanie's will begin around 8.  Keep the prayers coming!! ~Tina

Oct 20th - Matt really likes the surgeon at Jefferson and Lindsay and Matt got alot of information for the upcoming surgery.  The date is November 15th.  It will take at least 6 hours,  they will remove the cancerous spot as well as the end of his pancreas, his spleen, and depending on how his gall bladder looks, they will "just take that out" as well.  They will not know until they "get in" if the cancer spot is localize, which they feel it is.  They will take some lymph nodes around the area as well.  He will be in the hospital at Jefferson for 5-7 days and then recovery will be approximately 3 weeks.  If there is signs of changes in his lymph nodes they would have to "go in" again and remove those areas, but his liver, kidney, bladder, pancreas look good at this time and that is something to be very thankful for.  No hereditary reason for Matt having this cancerous spot.  He is doing well and wants this behind him (as we do).  I appreciate your prayers on his behalf and on ours as we continue to ventured into this next phase of our surgery/recovery/healing time. We know that God is in control and will cover Matt with His healing arms.  What are our needs at this time....  Jim continues to improve each day and we plan to talk to the transplant team tomorrow about Jim's ability to be at the surgery on the 15th of November.  I am thankful that it is in mid-November, because Jim will be much more mobile on his own, so I can focus on Matt and his recovery. ~Tina

Oct 21- We talked with the transplant team and they have no issues with Jim going to Jefferson for Matt's upcoming surgery on November 15th!  Once again God is providing all our needs.  Thank you for keeping Matt in your ongoing prayers. ~Thankful, Tina

Thank you for all your support and we know that you will keep us in your thoughts and prayers as we enter into the next phase of our amazing journey of healing!  ~Tina

10.25.11

One month ago today, Jim and Stephanie were in the operating room, while family and many friends were gathering in the waiting room for a day of waiting and anticipating!  What a difference a few weeks make! 

Jim continues to do well and is getting stronger every day.  It is amazing to see his strength returning and the fatigue diminishing.We continue to walk in a daily basis (weather permitting) and Jim's goal was to do the circuit (around a section of our development which we call the circuit).  Yesterday we did just that and plan to do that each time we go for our walks.His vitals are staying in the normal ranges, and he continues to be symptom-free with the medications that he is taking.  We are so thankful for how his recovery is going. Friday we see "our team" and see what the next phase of Jim's recovery will be (lifting some restrictions that he still has, always regulations of his medications, which is very normal, etc).

Stephanie, since we spoke last, is doing well and again, we are so thankful for her precious unconditional gift.  She is our angel (even though she has a warped devotion to the Cowboys, LOL)! We  are thankful for all the meals that had been prepared for us and we are thankful for those that have continued to keep our lawn mowed and other needs that we have while Jim continues to heal.

We continue to ask for prayers on our behalf because we know that God can do anything according to His great plan for our lives.

Enjoy this gorgeous day!

~Tina

"Blessed are they that have the gift of making friends, for it is one of God's best gifts. It involves many things, but above all, the power of going out of one's self, and appreciating whatever is noble and living in another." ~Thomas Hughes

10.23.11

This past week Jim has been stating that he wanted to attend church services on Sunday.  My response was "well see". Well, today is Sunday, my apprehension was on "high alert" while making our breakfast,etc., but I reluctantly said "let's go" for church service. 

The reason for my reluctance was not wanting to worship with our church family, but was the idea of all the hugs and handshakes that we would be receiving since we haven't been at church since mid-September the week before Jim's transplant!

Silly me,  God takes care of all aspects of our lives, and why did I think He would not have this under control.  We got to services and before we entered the doorway, a friend and leader at church came out to lead us in and he already shared with those greeting and meeting, that hand shaking and hugs were limited to only me.  My reluctance turned into thankfulness and it was so great to be there! 

Our family (Megan, Lindsay, Jackson and Matt) were all there in the back row with two seats for us when we got there.  We wanted to sit in the last row to keep Jim out of public way so to speak ( it is only 3 1/2 weeks since his transplant and this morning was the first day he even tried a pair of button-type docker pants, much less being in a car for a 30 minute drive and having to sit in a chair for an hour with his legs not propped up)!  Jim was doing great.  We decided to have Jim "leave for the restroom" when the children were dismissed for Faith Launch and everyone in the auditorium would be meeting and greeting.  Before the time for this we to occur, our pastor, Frank, got up and made some wonderful remarks about Jim being here and how it is early for him to be in a large group, so during the meeting and greeting period, smile at Jim, chat with him, but give Tina a "hit" LOL (he didn't say a hug), handshake, etc. God worked through our church family for us to be there today and for me to have no worries and truly be able to worship with our church family.  What a great day.

Our afternoon was spent with Jim resting, a nice long walk and some time of organizing as well as enjoying the warmth of the sunshine and the changing of the seasons.  What a great day indeed.

I am so thankful for how our church responded to Jim's strong desire to be at services and how, once again, all things fell right into place. 

As you can see, Jim continues to improve and he is doing remarkably well.  Keep the prayers coming.

“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
~Tina

The Amazing Journey Continues 10.21.11

Today we met with the Transplant "team".  Blood work continues to be stable and his medications are going well.  Some "as needed" meds have been removed as some of our documentation with "in-put" "out-put".  His blood pressure is doing well as is his weight, etc.  We are so pleased with how his recovery is coming along.  GISG  We are now going for blood work once a week and one visit per week to the transplant office.  He is still not able to drive, but it's only been 3 1/2 weeks since this transplant, but he will be doing more as time goes on.  He is extremely ambulatory and naps less frequently, but when he is "done" he's "done" for a time of resting.  So, he continues  to improve at a nice pace.  I'm so proud of how he is doing and again, so very thankful for the "gift" our angel gave us.  How do you every repay someone for such a gift?  We decided through dedicated care of Jim's health is the best way to show our appreciation and "repay", and our "angel" agrees. She is also such an amazing young woman! 

~Tina

P.S.  I'm adding a few more items on the "honey-do-list"...I don't want him to be too bored while he is off work recovering.  LOL

10.19.11

Things are continuing to go very well.  Walks throughout the day, 2 naps, some light activities.  Every day Jim is getting stronger and less bouts of weakness.  He is doing amazingly.  Tomorrow morning is Thursday, which means routine bloodwork.  Friday morning we have our transplant team office visit. It will be nice to meet with the team and see how things are going from their point of view.  GISG

This Tuesday I started having "Mimi days", which at this time will be referred to "Mimi and Grumps days".  We are happy to be getting back to some form of normalcy.  Jackson and Grumps take naps at the same time, which allow Mimi to catch up on things.

Our  "angel" started back to work on Monday.  She was getting "bored at home", so she was able to go back to work half-days.  She is doing very well and bouncing back to her wonderful self!  GISG

That's about it from here for now.  I felt I should update since I didn't write yesterday. 

Keep those prayers coming for Jim's recovery and our family as well as our "angel" and her family.

~Tina

10.17.11

Today was another good day.  Each day Jim continues to get stronger.  Our daily walks (2 a day) are increasing in length.  Jim's energy level is also continuing to increase. He continues to rest, which is good for his healing process and we continue to limit visits, but have had several visits and phone calls over the last few days.  Jim is doing well with "avoiding" other contact due to his resistance being so low because of the medications he is taking.  The fact is that rest is important after a major surgery, but the main reason for not having many visitors, and staying out of large enclosed crowded areas, is due to his immune system being weak at this time. Hand shaking and hugs are "off-limits" when Jim greets/meets individuals right now.  It's something for him to get used to that's for sure. He is doing amazing well and we are so thankful for how his recovery is going.

Tomorrow is our daughter's 26th birthday.  Can't believe that our "baby" is turning 26!!  We have a tradtion of having a "favorite meal" prepared and/or going out to an establishment to celebrate, and most times we do both.  Last year for Megan's birthday we celebrated with takeout because she was just home a few days after having Jackson (her and Lindsay's son--our grandson).  This year Matt, Lindsay, Megan and Jackson will be here at our home to celebrate her birthdaywith one of her favorite homemade dinners.  How blessed we are to have our family live so close and also want to be together with each other.  So blessed for sure!

~Tina

10.16.11

We would like to thank everyone who came to the Kidney Walk today. We had a great support system with us for the successful day! It went great and $102,000 raised so far! Also want to thank all of you who supported us through your donations and prayers, thoughts, but couldn't walk with us today. The walk improves every year. We were VERY excited about the turnout for Wilmington University/Team Wilson. Our team raise over $7000.00 and donations are still coming in. THANK YOU!!

Jim also was able to attend and meet and greet our team members. He would not have been able to attend without the assistance from our family.  Matt and I were at the walk early setting up and getting things ready, while Megan, Lindsay and Jackson waited to come and brought Jim closer to the time the walk was to begin.

It was a touching and emotional day.  Each year I react that way to an extend, but this year, we had so much to be thankful for and we had such a great turnout to "celebrate" the day with us.  Jim has had a very full weekend, filled with activities and he is doing very well.  He continues to amaze me with his recovery and he looks great.  Again we are so thankful for this new lease on life.  God has blessed us greatly.

Tomorrow morning is routine bloodwork and a rather slower paced day, which is a very good thing.  Thank you for your continued support and encouragement.

We are blessed,

Tina

P.S.  The EAGLES also won today!!!!

10.15.11

A very busy day!  This morning, began with us walking the mall (before it opened), due to the windy conditions and Jim really motored along, yea for him.  We did a little shopping at Target, then home.  Later in the morning, are daughter, son-in-love, and grandson came over and brought lunch.  Lindsay then proceeded to start painting a room that is on "my list of things to do".  What a job he is taking on...he'll be back tomorrow after the kidney walk to finish the walls.  It's looking Great!!! When he is finished I plan to put a border in the center of the walls around the room, it is our grandchildren room that needed some sprucing up.

Jim was "entertained" by Jackson-our 1-year old grandson throughout the day and stayed up and sitting almost all afternoon.  Needless to say, he is very tired now, but all-in-all have a very productive day.

Tomorrow is the kidney walk and our son, Matt and myself need to be there very early for setup, etc, so our daughter, Megan, son-in-love, Lindsay and Jackson will be picking up Jim to bring him to some of the walk.  He will have another full day tomorrow, but resting in the afternoon while hopefully watching our EAGLES win over the Redskins.

Jim is doing very well, just don't want him to "over-do-it" with all the activities this weekend.  The best medicine for him is having our kids and our precious grandson with us that's for sure.  How blessed we truly are.

We are trying to plan our week accordingly so we can possibly attend church services next week on the 23rd.  We will need to remind our church family, "no hugs" or many, if any handshakes if we do attend.  I'll take all the hugs from everyone for both of us.  We have missed worshipping with our church family.  Our pastor/minister brought our dinner this evening that his wonderful wife prepared and we told him we hope to come next week.  His reply was "don't rush it".  So we're going to see how things go and weather permitting, etc. for next Sunday. 

We are blessed to have several church family's that continue to love, support, and encourage us. We also have a great network of co-workers, friends, relatives that do the same.  How blessed to have such a connection.

Enjoy these gorgeous fall days, we sure are!

~Tina

He's still older than me!

Jim continues to exhibit examples of having too much time on his hands.  Earlier he humorously said to me that he is 51 years old with a 24 year old kidney.  Statistically this could make him around 49 years old and therefore no longer eligible for membership in AARP however, he reassured me that I am still eligible.
I need to end this entry as Jim is calling me.  Seems like he cannot find his pain medication: I guess I'm still guiding this recovery!  (LOL)

~Tina

P.S.  Jim is doing great, just weak and at times, that is hard for him, but as I remind him, he is recovering from a major surgery and it has only been 2 1/2 weeks since the actual surgery.  He is making great progress and we are very thankful!

10.14.11

Today we met with the transplant team.  All blood work levels are doing well and medication regiment continues to be modified and tolerated extremely well. We return to the transplant center on the 21st, which is a new step...only reporting once a week (rather than twice: Tues/Fri) to the transplant center! We will still be going for bloodwork two mornings a week at this time because it is extremely important to keep all the blood work levels at the precise levels that are required for Jim's continued great recovery.  

We are so thankful for the team at the transplant center.  They are excellent at what they do and they are very receptive to the needs of each of their transplant, whether the donor or the recipient, needs!  We are blessed to be located so conveniently to the center as well.

Enjoy your weekend!  We plan to as well.  Thank you for continued prayers, encouragement, meals, visits, cards, offers.  We are blessed because of your love for us.

~Tina

10.13.11

Today was a milestone, it's official, Jim is finished with the visiting nurse.  He continues to improve and it has been only 16 days since the transplant.  He is doing very well.  We will be making more ventures out and about and Jim, weather permitting, is planning on going to the kidney walk for a short time this coming Sunday morning (weather permitting). I am so proud of how well Jim is doing with his recovery.  We continue to be so thankful for Dr. Scantlebury, who was Jim's surgeon and the entire group of the Transplant Center team.  They rock!!!!

We will still need to be cautious with large crowd contact and individuals that are dealing with sniffles, allergies, etc, but we think we have a way of handling these situations.  One obvious thing, is to keep distance from those that are sick or places that have alot of ill individuals.  Hand-shakes, will, for the most part, be replaced by "fist-bumps" and hugs/kisses will be VERY limited. This will be different for us because we have a tendency to be great "hand-shakers" as well as "huggers and greeting one-another-with a peck or two"!  LOL 

Progress is going well and we even had some Mimi and Grumps time today with our precious, perfect grandson, Jackson.  He and Grumps both took their afternoon naps around the same time, which gave Mimi a little down-time too.  Jackson is one of the best medicines Jim can have!  Thankful that he loves being with us almost as much as we love being with him.  GIG

Tomorrow morning is our routine appt. with the transplant team. This is a new normal, and we are very, very thankful for it!  How blessed we are!

10.12.11

Another good day.  Only negative was we didn't get to go for any walks due to the liquid sunshine here in Delaware today.  Thankful for how Jim continues to improve.  He continues to rest, which is the best healing method for him.  He had two short visits today as well as mom and dad being with him for a few hours so I could go with our daughter and grandson to his 1-year well-baby checkup and lunch.  Thanks again Mom/Dad!!!  One of the visits was a personal delivery of our evening meal. Another delicious meal from a dear friend: thanks Debbie and Scott.  We are so appreciative of all the meals that are and have been prepared.  Tomorrow is "blood work morning"  as well as later in the morning the final evaluation from the visiting nurse. We have been blessed with great visiting nurses since Jim has been home from the hospital.  What a good option for individuals that had major surgery.  Another blessing for sure.

~Tina

10.11.11

Today was a different day for us.  Jim's adventures since the transplant have consisted of going for blood work two times a week and visiting the transplant center two times a week, but today...we ventured to BJ's after the transplant routine office visit!  WooHoo, it was a short visit, but a nice change for Jim.  Jim continues to improve with each visit and his numbers are staying within normal ranges for this time of the transplant, in other words...He is doing great! We are continuing the walking 2-3 times a day outside and enjoy the time together.  I see him getting stronger and I'm so thankful for that.  We plan to have our last visiting nurse visit this Thursday as well.

It is also hard to believe that the surgery was only two weeks ago today and Stephanie is back home doing well in Texas and Jim continues to improve and doing so well.  GISG  Jim's energy level has improved greatly since the surgery and we understand that will continue to improve as time goes on.  He continues have no related side-effects to the anti-rejection medications.

We are so thankful for this "gift", it has given Jim the opportunity for a fuller, healthier, stronger life. Thank you "angel" once again we say thank you!

~Tina

Philly and Texas living in harmony?

One of the humorous aspects of the kidney transplant has been the fact that Stephanie was born and   raised in Dallas, Texas and is a Cowboys fan.  As you might imagine, this created quite a dilemma for me.  Could an Eagles fan actually accept a Cowboy kidney?  Will Eagles blood coagulate as it passes through a Cowboy kidney?  Would Stephanie possibly change her allegiance?

After several sleepless nights, I began to consult with family and friends.  The initial facial response from most was clear – why would you even consider such a thought!  Typically, the verbal response was, “I don’t think so”.  A few comment that I should reject the offer - immediately. 

Thanks friends and family for your support!

I needed more guidance so I wrote a letter to Andy Reed and received no response from him.  However, I did receive a response from security at the Lincoln Financial Field advising me to not attend any games without first contacting their office.  I will assume they want to escort me on field for a special recognition.

The next step was one that I did not want to take but it was my last resort.  Should I take the drastic step and talk to Stephanie?  Eventually I did approach her.  The response was clear and immediate.  She would take 6 weeks off from work for the surgery and she would make 3 trips to Delaware as part of the transplant process.  She would even give me a kidney, but it was a “take it or leave it” proposition – a Cowboy kidney or no kidney.

I quickly apologized and reiterated my thankfulness and appreciation for such a gift.

During the pre-operative procedures and the recovery, we were known as the Cowboy-Eagles transplant.  Clearly no one has ever witnessed such a thing! Seriously, this was a humorous running discussion as Stephanie and my hospital rooms were just across the hall from each other.

Now nearly two weeks after the surgery, I am doing well and Stephanie has returned home.  I believe that a special anti-rejection drug may have been created and contributed to this success:  1 part soil from the Cowboy Stadium and 1 part from the Linc mixed together with 2 parts beer and 1 chicken wing.

(Clearly, you now know that I have way too much time on my hands and have spent entirely too much time thinking about all of this).

In honor of the successful transplant, friends Dave and Tracy created a special t-shirt for Stephanie and me which accompanies this blog entry.

In closing, perhaps the joining together of an Eagles and Cowboys fan will help to heal the wound which exists between these two worthy opponents.  Perhaps somehow, a little love will be shared between the two and it will all be worth it.  Probably not!

It is nearly 12:30 and the 3 Stooges are on shortly.

~Jim

10.9.11

What a gorgeous Fall Day! This morning we made our first "venture" to our favorite bagel shop, which we do most Sundays before heading to church services.  I ordered our "usual" and then we enjoyed it in our car.  We then made our way to a local park and went for a small walk, returning home to rest.  Jim is doing very well.  Though at times, he might "over-do-it" a slight bit, (which to me is a sign of him continuing to get stronger and heal), things are going well.  This afternoon we will be watching the EAGLES, as well as taking another walk or two.

We still haven't got the regulating of the over-the-counter pain relief and when prescription-type pain relief should be taken so there is not an increase of pain during the night.  I think today we have it the way it should work. We're trying to stay "ahead" of the pain and it is more difficult with OTC drugs. We are so thankful that Jim's recovery is going so well.

This morning we received a text from "our angel" that she was on the plane and getting ready to leave for Texas.  We know that prayers are continuing to be said for her and us and we thank you for those thoughts and prayers. 



A tired birthday-boy!



Yesterday was a milestone day for our family.  Not so much in regards to the recovery, but in our lives.  Our grandson, Jackson, celebrated his 1st birthday party (actual birthday is 10.10) with family and friends.  Grumps was part of the activities through using skype.  Jim's dear "friend" came for a visit while I went to the party.  It was a wonderful, amazing, a bit emotional for me too day.  We can't believe that it has been a year already that we have been grandparents.  How blessed we truly are!!

This is the day that the Lord has made, I'm rejoicing and I'm glad, may you also,

~Tina

10.7.11

Today began with a visit to the transplant center to meet with the team (every Tuesday and Friday right now).  All things are looking good. Jim will be home from the hospital a week tomorrow, simply amazing!  He continues to improve daily and is now introducing Tylenol into the pain regiment to omit some of the stronger pain meds.  Today has been good so far with this change.  We have been so blessed with the care that Jim and Stephanie have and continue to receive from the Transplant Center here in Delaware. 

We are looking forward to a weekend of gorgeous weather here in Delaware and celebrating our grandson's 1st birthday- (officially October 10th).  We will also take advantage of the weather and do some walking around our home area to continue building up Jim's stamina and strength.  Like I mentioned, he is doing great!

Another amazing event is that "our angel" will be able to fly home to Texas on Sunday, and her follow up appointment will be done, at this point, in Texas with her next visit to the transplant center in March (approx 6 months from now).

We had a lovely visit with Stephanie (our angel) and her mom this afternoon and also said our good-byes until Stephanie and Bobby return to this area (Bobby is from Hershey, PA) hopefully around the holidays. We have a great relationship with "our angel" and Bobby, and look forward to it continuing to grow as time goes on. 

~Grateful for the many things done for us out of pure love,

Tina

10.6.11

Today was a good day for Jim.  In fact, one of the best so far!  His pain level is more tolerable with pain medication being taken with longer hours between.  The visit today with the visiting nurse was another good one.  They are having him begin walking a bit more and trying to build up his stamina with "mini-walks" several times a day.  His first walk was with our daughter, Megan, this afternoon and then this evening we walked a bit farther.  We live in an "no outlet" cul-de-sac, so we can increase our mini-walks without concern of traffic.  What a great time to begin walking with this gorgeous weather Delaware is finally receiving. 

Also today, Jim went on his first "social" ride (something different than going for blood work or transplant team office visits).  It was a short one, but he did very well.  Our daughter and son-in-law provided dinner for "our angel" Stephanie and family, so Jim drove with Megan to "visit" and I had some Mimi-time, until Uncle Matt came by and then we had a Mimi-Uncle time, which I love to have as well!! 

We are amazed and thankful for Jim's recovery.  Keep those prayers coming.  He is basically having no issues with the medications (at this point) and improving daily.

Stephanie and Jim both have appointments tomorrow with the transplant team.  Stephanie is hoping to be able to go back to Texas this Sunday, so she is looking forward to hearing that from the "team" at her appointment tomorrow.  We meet with the team as well for the 2nd day of the week's appointment.  Jim will be meeting with the "team" twice a week for several weeks, which is normal for a transplant recepients.  I believe I may have shared that before with you all.  Later tomorrow afternoon, Stephanie, "our angel" and her family plan to visit with us at our home.   This will probably be the last time we see Stephanie until she and Bobby return to Delaware for her follow up in a few weeks.  Keep the prayers going for Stephanie as well, as I know you will.

What a unique bond we have with "our angel".  We shared several common interests, etc before, but now...we feel like Stephanie and Bobby are family.  They will ALWAYS be a part of "our family".  We are blessed to have them in our lives.

I must say this often, but THANK YOU!  Thank you for the prayers, the support and the low-salt, healthy dinners that many of you have and plan to provide for us during this time.

Blessed because of you being in our lives,

Tina

Words from the Receipent

Good afternoon,
Thank you for your expressions of concern and support regarding how things are going related to my recent surgery.
Things continue to go very well and I gain a little strength each day.  Yesterday morning I had an appointment with the transplant team and learned that my blood work and kidney function are very good.  Actually the numbers related to kidney function are better than they have been in decades!  They are on the high side of the normal range (lower numbers are better).
Stephanie (the donor) is doing well and having to adjust to having only one kidney.  This means in addition to weakness from the surgery, her level of fatigue is compounded.  This should get better over the next few weeks.
Needless to say, the entire process seems just short of a miracle.  For example, Stephanie is quite a bit smaller in stature than am I, however, being so young (24 years) over the next year or so, the donated kidney should grow in size and level of function which could result in even better numbers.
My diet has completely flip flopped.  More protein, less carbs.  Drink a diet cola each day for phosphorus - soda for health reasons, go figure.
The level of support received from family, friends and coworkers has been amazing.  Thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers.
The appointments yesterday morning basically wore me out for that afternoon however, I managed sitting in the living room to watch the Phillies, rather than from our bedroom.

~Jim

10.5.11

What a beautiful Morning!!  Enjoying the sunshine is part of the recovery today.  Visiting nurse stopped by this morning and all things are looking well with only a slight raised blood pressure, which is being regulated with his medications.  Today will conists of some fresh air from our patio as well as a short visit from one of Jim's close friend.  He continues to have no side effects at this time with the medications and that is a huge Praise! We are still limiting visits, but feel free to email me personally or text about a possible short visit in the next week or so. 

Again,  I must say that we are so blessed with the delicious meals that so many have and will continue to prepare for us throughout this time.  I only have to make our breakfast and lunch options and then I'm freed up to care for Jim and his needs. 

He is doing great.  He had a great report from the transplant center yesterday and with more rest and each day getting stronger and hopefully less pain he will continue to improve.  Our angel, as of yesterday was doing remarkably well and again, we are SO thankful for her servant, giving, spirit! God has surely had His hand in this entire process.

May your day be filled with some outside activity...it's such a gorgeous fall day here in Delaware.

Blessed because of you, "God has given each of you some special abilities; be sure to use them to help each other, passing on to others God's many kinds of blessings."  1 Peter 4:10

Tina

10.4.11

Home a resting after a long morning at the transplant center office for the first post-op visit.  The office visit went very well, Praises!!!  Jim's numbers are looking very good and his incision is healing nicely.  There were some changes (minor) made to his medications, which will be an on-going "new normal" for us.  As we were waiting in the office for our visit, I was reminded just how amazing God made our bodies and when healthy, how remarkable the healing process is.  Last week this time we were praying and waiting for the surgery to be completed and today we are waiting to see how well the surgery results are doing. AMAZING!! 

Jim continues to rest and we are so appreciative of how you all are respecting our request for no to limited visitors.  I see him benefiting from this decision for this week.  He is less "cloudy" with each day and he is wanting to be sitting up more than laying, which is all good.  His appetite is going well and we have little to no symptoms from the recent medication regiment.  Some things, as mentioned above, have been changed today, but we still foresee his reactions to be minimal, if any.  All is good!!!  We have the visiting nurse coming tomorrow morning and bloodwork and the visiting nurse on Thursday, followed by another transplant office visit on Friday morning.  The office visit/bloodwork will be ongoing but will decrease from twice a week to once a week, to every-other-week, to monthly, and so on.  We are blessed to be connected with such wonderful Transplant Center here in Delaware.

Our "angel", Stephanie continues to improve and is doing well. She has a followup appointment this Friday as well.

Thank you for the ongoing prayers, love, and support!  A special thanks to all of you "family" here in Delaware who continue to provide healthy, delicious meals for both of our families.  Thank you also for all the other offers that you have made to assists wherever we need.  We are blessed and appreciate you all.

~Tina

10.3.11

Getting stronger everyday!  GISG!!!  We had a pretty uneventful day and those are the best when recovering from major surgery of any kind.  Early morning bloodwork for our 1st follow-up appointment tomorrow with the transplant team post-surgery.  Visiting nurse shared a few questions with the transplant team while she was here for the visit, but all-in-all everything is progressing along nicely.  Jim is doing well.

Thank you for checking in on the blog and praying for both Jim and "our angel".

Blessings,

Tina

10.2.11

Thankful for Jim being able to have a decent restful night, even with being awaken for some pain medication and a few other things.  All-in-all, much better sleeping at home than in the hospital!  Stephanie also after finding a comfortable way to rest, did for much of the night as well: update from her sweet hubby, Bobby! 

Jim is improving and his numbers that we are keeping track of are staying "on track".  Tuesday we have blood work, so those numbers will be revealed at our appointment with the transplant team, which is also Tuesday and also means a long day ahead for Jim!

Jim is weak and he wears out easily.  I plan to once again, ask that visits be limited to our immediate family only and to those who so graciously are bringing meals to our home this week, please understand. If he is awake when you drop off the food, definitely say "hi", but we need to limit the visits this week.  I will say, pain medication is a VERY GOOD THING!! 

As I said before, Jim is doing remarkably well and I'm so thankful for God's healing hand on him and "our angel". I ask that you keep the prayers coming for all.  We feel them, they are working and we're thankful.

Blessed because of you,

Tina

10.1.11

T H E Y     R    H O M E!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Rest, rest, rest, and more rest for both of them.  Jim will have a visit from the visiting nurse tomorrow followed by his first follow up appointment on Tuesday morning after blood work.  Our angel, Stephanie, will have her follow up appointment this Friday and possibly leave for Texas (her home) on the 9th.  This is not written in stone, but that is her plan at this time.

We are all receiving the benefit of many of your talents with the meal preparations.  Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.  Having this service provided for us allows me to concentrate solely on Jim without thinking about making dinner.  I have to only prepare breakfast and lunch, which allows me to keep his food menu in balance.  THANK YOU TO ALL.

Keep the prayers coming as both Stephanie and Jim continue the healing process. Thank you for the prayers for our families as well.

Thank you for being God's hands and feet in serving us through prayer, encouragement and physical support.

We love and appreciate you,

Jim, Tina and our family ~"This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God."- 2Cor 9:12

9.30.11

Well it's Friday already!  In some ways this week have been one of the longest ever, but in many ways it has been a very short week. 

Jim and Stephanie are both scheduled to be discharged tomorrow from the hospital.  We are very thankful and looking forward to having each of them out and recovering outside the hospital.  Jim is ready to be home so he can sleep.  Hospitals are not for people that want to get some rest.  Rest, is something he really needs right now, so if all goes well, he'll be in his own bed tomorrow night, Lord willing.  Yesterday was a more fatigue day for Stephanie (our angel) and today was like that for Jim.  They will each have "those days".

We are so thankful for all our church families and friends and family members that are bringing meals to Stephanie and her family as well as those that will be making meals for our family in the coming weeks. As a transplant recipient there is a great deal of scheduled times to take their medication.  So the first several weeks we will be getting used to "our new normal", which just takes time!  The blessing is that we have been compliant pre-transplant with what Jim needed to do, so post-transplant we will do the same.  Just a bit new right now, especially for Jim. Things are being made easier because of all our meals for the next several weeks being prepared for us and having the visiting nurse for several visits and follow up appointments.  I am also overwhelmed by the offers to "help in anyway", etc.  I'm/we are more used to being the people that "make the offers" rather than accepting the offers.  I am thankful that I have the opportunity to take many of you up on all your generous help.  GISG.

So, if all goes as planned, and we don't see this being an issue, we will all be in our "homes" tomorrow evening. I will continue to post updates from time to time.

Again, thank you for the prayers and support!  It means more than words can express.

So Blessed,
Tina

9.29.11

Time heals...is a saying that is proving correct this week.  It is amazing to imagine that Tuesday was the transplant and today "our Angel" is continuing to improve and continues to eat solid foods, etc.  Jim had a good day as well.  He started the morning with a liquid diet and then was asked from a list what he wanted for a "real meal" for lunch!! Yea:-D  He is now on solids and he can drink as more water, which he is VERY happy about.  He continues to be more ambulatory  and actually walked the "round" by himself once! He is doing well with the anti-rejection regiment/pain therapy (Praises). We are beginning to set up schedules for visits to the transplant office after he is discharge and these are all good signs of how nicely things are progressing.  We continue to appreciate your prayers and comments of encouragement.

God's Hand continues to guide us through this amazing journey. We are thankful for His unwavering love for us!

~Tina