Our appointment is done, and we are left with lots of questions, and not a lot of answers. We still aren't 100% sure what Dad experienced on Thursday- it could have been a TIA (mini-stroke), swelling in the brain, or brain exhaustion/fatigue. We really don't know. What we do know, is Dad's treatment (Avastin) can cause mini-strokes and major strokes, which makes us extra cautious about continuing the Avastin. So this round of treatment is on hold, the Avastin that is, as Dad is still on chemo this week, and we will repeat the MRI in a couple of weeks to determine if the images show a stroke occurred or if there is any tumor growth. From there, we will determine our next steps and move forward.
On a positive note, I asked our Oncologist to explain Dad's MRI, what exactly the scan looked like, as when I read the MRI results I swear it's in another language. She said the images appear to be scar tissue and old blood, as the area where the tumor was located is not "lighting up" like it would if it were actual cancer growth. Which is great news! We are praying the next MRI gives us more confidence in the direction we should go with Dad's treatment. Until then, Dad is planning to rest and fight through this difficult week of chemo.
Thanks for all the continued thoughts and prayers throughout our journey, especially in these last few days.
Tuesday, March 24, 2015
Thursday, March 19, 2015
Right Where I Need To Be. Dad Update 3/19/2015
The call. The gut wrenching phone call when you're miles away that leaves you with tears in your eyes and the feeling of helplessness. That's exactly what happened this morning. That's exactly what changed my plans and left me right where I need to be. Home.
I got a call this morning letting me know something was off with Dad, letting me know that all of Dad's symptoms lead us to believe Dad was experiencing a stroke. My heart sank. I was in New Orleans celebrating a friend's birthday, I was miles away and hours from seeing my Dad. So I did what anyone would do in my situation, I booked a flight home and started to pray. The flight seemed to take forever, and for that hour I felt completely removed from it all- I couldn't get a text or call letting me know how the appointment was going or how the MRI looked. I felt helpless.
I got a call this morning letting me know something was off with Dad, letting me know that all of Dad's symptoms lead us to believe Dad was experiencing a stroke. My heart sank. I was in New Orleans celebrating a friend's birthday, I was miles away and hours from seeing my Dad. So I did what anyone would do in my situation, I booked a flight home and started to pray. The flight seemed to take forever, and for that hour I felt completely removed from it all- I couldn't get a text or call letting me know how the appointment was going or how the MRI looked. I felt helpless.
Numerous phone calls with my family, and I still feel bad for the young man on the plane next to me, who sat so calmly as I was on the phone until the moment we took off, cried during most of the flight, and immediately started calling my sister when we landed.
Between phone calls home and text messages trying to understand what was going on, my Facebook was flooded with prayers and comments. I debated making that post. I debated if I thought everyone should know what was going on, and then I realized the more people that know, the more prayers that will be sent to Dad- and we needed all the prayers we could get.
I finally landed and, thankfully, my cousin was going to Brenham tonight from Houston and was able to take me home- God's perfect timing. As I rode to Brenham, I rambled on and discussed the concerns of Dad's condition. If this was a stroke, will the side effects reverse? How severe of a stroke was this? Is this a side effect of tumor re-growth? Oh I know I must have rambled on, but how thankful I was for a cousin who listened, and then managed to distract me with talks of her dog's allergies and having her fiancé pick up Benadryl. It was more than needed in those moments before I received the MRI results.
The MRI results came in and it was the best case scenario. I'm still trying to understand it all, but slowly I'm learning the language of all these medical terms! The MRI did not indicate a bleed or a stroke, although this does not mean a small stroke did not occur, it just means the MRI did not show anything- and that was good news. The MRI also did not show any tumor re-growth, which is more good news! So now, we are home, we are scheduling follow up appointments with both our Nuerosurgeon and our Oncologist in about a week and continuing on our treatment plan.
What a day it has been! Our faith has once again been tested and we were faced with another bump in the road with our battle against cancer. As much as I hated having to leave my girls in New Orleans, I couldn't imagine being anywhere else but here right now. I'm right where I need to be- with Mom and Dad.
Asking for continued prayers for both Mom and Dad- as the caregivers also struggle and need continued prayers during this fight. Dad is strong and determined, and I have no doubt he will continue doing well- just need to get over this little bump in the road.
On my flight home, I pulled out a book for a distraction and read something so perfect, something I so badly needed to read:
"If our hard is the absence of a good God, then how can anyone walk in faith?"
Continue the prayers, as we continue fighting to BTHO Brain Cancer!
Thursday, March 12, 2015
Shaking My Fist. Dad Update 3/12/2015
I was reminded once again of those wonderful words: "Coincidence is just God's way of remaining anonymous." As I find it no coincidence that I came across a Facebook page for a woman so bravely battling cancer, and I realized it was the same woman who's open letter I read to Brittany Maynard (the young lady who ended her life after a brain cancer diagnosis), in which I felt as though she took some of the words right out of my heart.
I finally made the connection. I finally realized that the story of Kara Tippetts is one that I can relate to in many way, as I know the fear of hearing "terminal cancer".
Kara so beautifully states, "The world says I should be angry, that I should be shaking my fist at God. But I wanted them to share this story, that suffering isn't a mistake, and it isn't the absence of God's goodness, because he's present in pain."
I can not deny my own shaking of fist at God during those first couple of weeks after Dad was diagnosed with brain cancer. I remember so many nights where I would have long conversations with God, and with tears in my eyes I would question why he would do something like this to MY Dad. Why he would hurt MY family. Why he would give us a path as difficult as cancer.
My conversations started with hate, and with tears in my eyes, they ended with thankfulness. I can't explain how the hate turned into something so positive, but what I can explain is the overwhelming amount of comfort I have when times are difficult, and I know there is someone so much greater controlling it all. Someone who I can talk to at any moment. Someone who listens to me through the tears. Someone who provides strength, in moments where my body and mind are filled with fear. I do not wish for anyone to be on a path like ours, one filled with ups and downs, good and bad days, and moments where the world does seem to be falling apart, but through the difficult moments, through the moments where it all seems to be going wrong- we see the glimpse of hope, faith and trust in this journey. We realize that God picked MY family for this journey. He felt as though MY family was strong enough to battle this storm. He felt as though MY family has the hope, faith and trust to take something so difficult, and turn it into something positive.
Conversations have been made lately among friends, where we've discussed the "what if" we didn't believe. We discussed trying to understand those who do not have a relationship with God. We discussed trying to understand what could cause us to continuously shake our fist at God, instead of seeing the beauty in our suffering.
It's something I'm not sure I will ever understand. And I'm ok with that. I don't think I ever want to know a life that doesn't involve my faith. It's this faith that has helped me find joy in the good days, and joy in the more difficult days. It's this faith that has helped us to not fear bad news, but TRUST the Lord to care for us. It's this faith that helped me survive these last 17 months.
Kara continues to write in her blog, "Maybe I'm on a journey, and the journey is more beautiful than any of us can comprehend. " And I think she's right. What a beautiful journey we've been on.
Dad had another appointment with his Oncologist, Dr. Fleener, on Tuesday and she is so thrilled with how well he is doing. We have scheduled another MRI in about a month. We are so incredibly hopeful that the treatments have continued to work to stop any tumor growth! Dad's last round of chemo was really tough, and after talking with Dr. Fleener, she feels as though this is just a cumulative effect of the drugs on Dad's body. So for now, we work on stopping the side effects before they start. We are so hopeful that if Dad's next MRI looks good, we can discuss reducing treatments and having more time between MRI's. We are so so so incredibly hopeful!
I can't say enough wonderful things about Dad's doctor, Dr. Fleener. I feel as though God so perfectly put her in our path. I joke often that she is the 4th daughter in our family, as we have come to love her as if she is a Glenz. We trust her judgment, and more importantly, Dad trust her. She ends Dad's appointment with giving him a hug, and telling him she loves him. We are so blessed to have found her and all of the nurses at the Cancer Clinic in Bryan.
'Run For The Rose' Update: We currently have 84 team members and have raised $3,805 towards brain cancer research. Talk about a FULL heart! I just know that in my lifetime I will see a CURE, and I will be able to witness other families receive a diagnosis of brain cancer and be filled with FAITH for healing.
Continue the prayers, as we continue fighting to BTHO Brain Cancer
Run For The Rose: If you would you like to join our team or make a donation, please visit our team page http://runfortherose.racepartner.com/run-for-the-rose/bthobraincancer. If you have any questions or would like to purchase a 'Team Lar' t-shirt, please send me an email (glenzwhitney@gmail.com).
I finally made the connection. I finally realized that the story of Kara Tippetts is one that I can relate to in many way, as I know the fear of hearing "terminal cancer".
Kara so beautifully states, "The world says I should be angry, that I should be shaking my fist at God. But I wanted them to share this story, that suffering isn't a mistake, and it isn't the absence of God's goodness, because he's present in pain."
I can not deny my own shaking of fist at God during those first couple of weeks after Dad was diagnosed with brain cancer. I remember so many nights where I would have long conversations with God, and with tears in my eyes I would question why he would do something like this to MY Dad. Why he would hurt MY family. Why he would give us a path as difficult as cancer.
My conversations started with hate, and with tears in my eyes, they ended with thankfulness. I can't explain how the hate turned into something so positive, but what I can explain is the overwhelming amount of comfort I have when times are difficult, and I know there is someone so much greater controlling it all. Someone who I can talk to at any moment. Someone who listens to me through the tears. Someone who provides strength, in moments where my body and mind are filled with fear. I do not wish for anyone to be on a path like ours, one filled with ups and downs, good and bad days, and moments where the world does seem to be falling apart, but through the difficult moments, through the moments where it all seems to be going wrong- we see the glimpse of hope, faith and trust in this journey. We realize that God picked MY family for this journey. He felt as though MY family was strong enough to battle this storm. He felt as though MY family has the hope, faith and trust to take something so difficult, and turn it into something positive.
Conversations have been made lately among friends, where we've discussed the "what if" we didn't believe. We discussed trying to understand those who do not have a relationship with God. We discussed trying to understand what could cause us to continuously shake our fist at God, instead of seeing the beauty in our suffering.
It's something I'm not sure I will ever understand. And I'm ok with that. I don't think I ever want to know a life that doesn't involve my faith. It's this faith that has helped me find joy in the good days, and joy in the more difficult days. It's this faith that has helped us to not fear bad news, but TRUST the Lord to care for us. It's this faith that helped me survive these last 17 months.
Kara continues to write in her blog, "Maybe I'm on a journey, and the journey is more beautiful than any of us can comprehend. " And I think she's right. What a beautiful journey we've been on.
Dad had another appointment with his Oncologist, Dr. Fleener, on Tuesday and she is so thrilled with how well he is doing. We have scheduled another MRI in about a month. We are so incredibly hopeful that the treatments have continued to work to stop any tumor growth! Dad's last round of chemo was really tough, and after talking with Dr. Fleener, she feels as though this is just a cumulative effect of the drugs on Dad's body. So for now, we work on stopping the side effects before they start. We are so hopeful that if Dad's next MRI looks good, we can discuss reducing treatments and having more time between MRI's. We are so so so incredibly hopeful!
I can't say enough wonderful things about Dad's doctor, Dr. Fleener. I feel as though God so perfectly put her in our path. I joke often that she is the 4th daughter in our family, as we have come to love her as if she is a Glenz. We trust her judgment, and more importantly, Dad trust her. She ends Dad's appointment with giving him a hug, and telling him she loves him. We are so blessed to have found her and all of the nurses at the Cancer Clinic in Bryan.
'Run For The Rose' Update: We currently have 84 team members and have raised $3,805 towards brain cancer research. Talk about a FULL heart! I just know that in my lifetime I will see a CURE, and I will be able to witness other families receive a diagnosis of brain cancer and be filled with FAITH for healing.
Continue the prayers, as we continue fighting to BTHO Brain Cancer
Run For The Rose: If you would you like to join our team or make a donation, please visit our team page http://runfortherose.racepartner.com/run-for-the-rose/bthobraincancer. If you have any questions or would like to purchase a 'Team Lar' t-shirt, please send me an email (glenzwhitney@gmail.com).
Thursday, March 5, 2015
The Ladybug: 17 Months (3/5/3015)
Last week, in the midst of feeling frustrated, upset and just down about Dad's battle, something caught my eye. A ladybug.
It was chemo week for Dad. Which means each night he takes those dreaded pills and heads to bed, praying the side effects of the chemo won't show their ugly face. Although last week, the side effects were coming in loud and clear.
Dad hides the pain and frustration so incredibly well, although I can see right through his response of "I'm fine." He's in pain. He's feeling weak, tired and not well, and that all continues to break my heart.
As I was getting ready for bed, I heard a buzz by my ear and turned to see a ladybug sitting on the wall. I thought this was a bit strange, as I'm pretty sure ladybugs aren't just everywhere in the winter, but sure enough, there one was. I'm such a big believer in signs and messages from others who have passed- call me crazy if you'd like, but they seem to come exactly when I need them, and they continue to bring me great comfort.
I immediately Googled the meaning behind a ladybug, as I've always heard different things- ranging from bringing good luck, to bringing love, or meaning a loved one is thinking of you. But the first link I clicked on read:
"This tiny little beetle brings with it a powerful message. Because the life cycle of the adult ladybug is short it teaches us how to release worries and enjoy our lives to the fullest. When it appears in our life it is telling us to 'let go and let God.' Seen often as a messenger of promise, the ladybug reconnects us with the joy of living. Fear and joy can not co-exist. We need to release our fears and return to love. Ladybug teaches us how to restore our trust and faith in the great spirit. When the ladybug appears, it is telling us to get our of our own way and allow the great spirit to enter into our lives."
And then of course I pull out my devotional for the day and read:
"I am leading you, step by step, through your life. Hold My hand in trusting dependence, letting Me guide you through the day. Your future looks uncertain and feels flimsy- even precarious. That is how it should be...Whenever you find yourself worrying about the future, repeat and return to Me. I will show you the next step forward, and the one after that, and the one after that. Relax and enjoy the journey in My Presence, trust Me to open up the way before you as you go."
So call me crazy, but I find so much comfort in the things that seem to be coincidence in life. I mean, I've always read that coincidence is just God's way of remaining anonymous.
Today marks 17 months on our journey against brain cancer, and Mom and Dad's 32nd wedding anniversary. To say these two have lived up to their vows would be an understatement, as I've been able to witness first hand their love and support for one another through better or for worse, and in sickness and in health. They continue to inspire me each and every day!
The treatments continue for Dad, yes even 17 months out and after a good MRI, we still take chemo and Avastin. This will continue for some time, as that is just the nature of this beast we are fighting. But we continue to fight each day, some days better than others, but each day a true gift.
We've currently raised $3,385 and have 75 members on our team for the upcoming 'Run For The Rose'. Our hearts are so incredibly full! Thank you all for your continued love and support on our journey. There is still time to join our team, make a donation or purchase a "Team Lar" t-shirt. Please visit the link below, or email me (glenzwhitney@gmail.com) with any questions you may have.
http://runfortherose.racepartner.com/run-for-the-rose/bthobraincancer
Continue the prayers, as we continue fighting to BTHO Brain Cancer!
It was chemo week for Dad. Which means each night he takes those dreaded pills and heads to bed, praying the side effects of the chemo won't show their ugly face. Although last week, the side effects were coming in loud and clear.
Dad hides the pain and frustration so incredibly well, although I can see right through his response of "I'm fine." He's in pain. He's feeling weak, tired and not well, and that all continues to break my heart.
As I was getting ready for bed, I heard a buzz by my ear and turned to see a ladybug sitting on the wall. I thought this was a bit strange, as I'm pretty sure ladybugs aren't just everywhere in the winter, but sure enough, there one was. I'm such a big believer in signs and messages from others who have passed- call me crazy if you'd like, but they seem to come exactly when I need them, and they continue to bring me great comfort.
I immediately Googled the meaning behind a ladybug, as I've always heard different things- ranging from bringing good luck, to bringing love, or meaning a loved one is thinking of you. But the first link I clicked on read:
"This tiny little beetle brings with it a powerful message. Because the life cycle of the adult ladybug is short it teaches us how to release worries and enjoy our lives to the fullest. When it appears in our life it is telling us to 'let go and let God.' Seen often as a messenger of promise, the ladybug reconnects us with the joy of living. Fear and joy can not co-exist. We need to release our fears and return to love. Ladybug teaches us how to restore our trust and faith in the great spirit. When the ladybug appears, it is telling us to get our of our own way and allow the great spirit to enter into our lives."
And then of course I pull out my devotional for the day and read:
"I am leading you, step by step, through your life. Hold My hand in trusting dependence, letting Me guide you through the day. Your future looks uncertain and feels flimsy- even precarious. That is how it should be...Whenever you find yourself worrying about the future, repeat and return to Me. I will show you the next step forward, and the one after that, and the one after that. Relax and enjoy the journey in My Presence, trust Me to open up the way before you as you go."
So call me crazy, but I find so much comfort in the things that seem to be coincidence in life. I mean, I've always read that coincidence is just God's way of remaining anonymous.
Today marks 17 months on our journey against brain cancer, and Mom and Dad's 32nd wedding anniversary. To say these two have lived up to their vows would be an understatement, as I've been able to witness first hand their love and support for one another through better or for worse, and in sickness and in health. They continue to inspire me each and every day!
The treatments continue for Dad, yes even 17 months out and after a good MRI, we still take chemo and Avastin. This will continue for some time, as that is just the nature of this beast we are fighting. But we continue to fight each day, some days better than others, but each day a true gift.
We've currently raised $3,385 and have 75 members on our team for the upcoming 'Run For The Rose'. Our hearts are so incredibly full! Thank you all for your continued love and support on our journey. There is still time to join our team, make a donation or purchase a "Team Lar" t-shirt. Please visit the link below, or email me (glenzwhitney@gmail.com) with any questions you may have.
http://runfortherose.racepartner.com/run-for-the-rose/bthobraincancer
Continue the prayers, as we continue fighting to BTHO Brain Cancer!
Wednesday, February 25, 2015
Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation Event. 2/24/2015
Last night my sister and I, along with another couple, attended an event hosted by the Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation. To say I left feeling overwhelmed with love and support would be a complete understatement, as I left with a new feeling of hope.
The event was held at a beautiful home, filled with great food and drinks, and even more interesting and exciting information on brain cancer treatment. We listened as the top doctors talked about the treatment options and clinical trials that are on the path to a cure because of the funding by Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation. To hear so many treatment options are being tested and are on the fast path by the FDA BECAUSE of the donations made by the foundation was so incredibly heartwarming. Last year our team raised over $10,000 to be donated to the foundation, and last night I listened and realized that each and every dollar was going towards a CURE.
I think the event was also great for the couple that attended with us, as the wife (Amanda) was diagnosed with brain cancer in December, the same exact type of cancer as Dad. I remember when Dad went through his initial treatment- 6 weeks of radiation and 6 weeks of chemotherapy- and I remember how incredibly difficult that last week of treatment was for him. He was tired, he was sick, and oh how he dreaded having to take any more medication. But he survived that last week, maybe not with a smile on his face all of the time, but with a head filled with determination and fight- and that's exactly what I see in Amanda. I see the same physical and mental exhaustion in her eyes, but I also see this drive and fight to win- win the battle against brain cancer. I'm asking for a few extra prayers these next 6 treatments, as she completes her initial round of treatment.
I once read, "We decide the first day of our cancer diagnosis whether we are going to be victims or survivors. We decide to muster up all our strength to fight to win. We decide to stay positive and not let cancer define us. We decide how we are going to handle each day. Yes, there are good days and bad days, but your attitudes determine each day. Hold on to your hopes, dreams, faith and determination, and gather your strength from your support systems, because in the fight against cancer, we cannot give up."
Never give up. That's the attitude of so many at the event last night, especially those patients who are currently battling brain cancer. And that's the attitude of the foundation, never give up.
To hear the advances that are being made and to hear that the money raised from the foundation was backing so many of these advances made my heart so incredibly full. I realized that we are making a difference in the brain cancer community, we are moving forward with treatment options for so many just like Dad, and we going to be part of the CURE.
The 'Run For The Rose' is such an incredible event for not only my family, but so many others who are battling or have battled this disease. It gives us hope, it provides us with a support system, and it provides us comfort. We see the hope in so many brain cancer SURVIVORS at the race. We receive the support from so many who have decided to take time out of their day, or money out of their wallets, for a CURE. And we are provided comfort from so many who just understand our story, because our story is so incredibly similar to their story.
Please consider joining our team for the upcoming run, or making a donation, to help give hope, support and comfort to so many battling against brain cancer.
http://runfortherose.racepartner.com/run-for-the-rose/bthobraincancer
Dad is completing another round of chemotherapy, and although I know he dreads this week each month, he continues to provide us with a smile each and every day, and an incredible amount of determination to win.
Continue the prayers, as we continue fighting to BTHO Brain Cancer!
The event was held at a beautiful home, filled with great food and drinks, and even more interesting and exciting information on brain cancer treatment. We listened as the top doctors talked about the treatment options and clinical trials that are on the path to a cure because of the funding by Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation. To hear so many treatment options are being tested and are on the fast path by the FDA BECAUSE of the donations made by the foundation was so incredibly heartwarming. Last year our team raised over $10,000 to be donated to the foundation, and last night I listened and realized that each and every dollar was going towards a CURE.
I think the event was also great for the couple that attended with us, as the wife (Amanda) was diagnosed with brain cancer in December, the same exact type of cancer as Dad. I remember when Dad went through his initial treatment- 6 weeks of radiation and 6 weeks of chemotherapy- and I remember how incredibly difficult that last week of treatment was for him. He was tired, he was sick, and oh how he dreaded having to take any more medication. But he survived that last week, maybe not with a smile on his face all of the time, but with a head filled with determination and fight- and that's exactly what I see in Amanda. I see the same physical and mental exhaustion in her eyes, but I also see this drive and fight to win- win the battle against brain cancer. I'm asking for a few extra prayers these next 6 treatments, as she completes her initial round of treatment.
I once read, "We decide the first day of our cancer diagnosis whether we are going to be victims or survivors. We decide to muster up all our strength to fight to win. We decide to stay positive and not let cancer define us. We decide how we are going to handle each day. Yes, there are good days and bad days, but your attitudes determine each day. Hold on to your hopes, dreams, faith and determination, and gather your strength from your support systems, because in the fight against cancer, we cannot give up."
Never give up. That's the attitude of so many at the event last night, especially those patients who are currently battling brain cancer. And that's the attitude of the foundation, never give up.
To hear the advances that are being made and to hear that the money raised from the foundation was backing so many of these advances made my heart so incredibly full. I realized that we are making a difference in the brain cancer community, we are moving forward with treatment options for so many just like Dad, and we going to be part of the CURE.
The 'Run For The Rose' is such an incredible event for not only my family, but so many others who are battling or have battled this disease. It gives us hope, it provides us with a support system, and it provides us comfort. We see the hope in so many brain cancer SURVIVORS at the race. We receive the support from so many who have decided to take time out of their day, or money out of their wallets, for a CURE. And we are provided comfort from so many who just understand our story, because our story is so incredibly similar to their story.
Please consider joining our team for the upcoming run, or making a donation, to help give hope, support and comfort to so many battling against brain cancer.
http://runfortherose.racepartner.com/run-for-the-rose/bthobraincancer
Dad is completing another round of chemotherapy, and although I know he dreads this week each month, he continues to provide us with a smile each and every day, and an incredible amount of determination to win.
Continue the prayers, as we continue fighting to BTHO Brain Cancer!
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
Run For The Rose Update. 2/18/2015
With our 2nd trip to 'Run For The Rose' coming up soon, we are well on our way to having another memorable year!
We currently have 56 team members and have raised $2,170 to date! To say the Glenz family is feeling the love and support of so many would be a complete understatement. Our hearts are so full!
Our goal this year is to have one of the largest teams on the course, and I think we are well on our way to doing just that! And our second goal is to raise $5,000 towards brain cancer research, at we've come so close to reaching our half way mark!
Dad is living proof of the strides and progress that is being made in brain cancer treatment and options. Years ago, a diagnosis like Glioblastoma gave patients two options- surgery and radiation. But fast forward to TODAY, and we currently have chemotherapy available and IV treatment (Avastin), which are both FDA approved. The brain cancer community is still very far away from catching up with other types of cancers in the realm of treatment options- but we are much closer than we were 5 years ago.
Brain Cancer has very limited FDA approved treatments, which means limited options for many patients diagnosed with this disease. With the help of the Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation we are changing the treatment options- allowing more clinical trials, which I have complete faith will turn into a cure. The Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation was created because of a NEED for brain cancer treatment options and awareness, and it was created because of the love they have for their daughter, who lost her battle to Glioblastoma, a battle that had very few options at the time of her diagnosis.
I am in constant contact with the foundation because I want them to know their efforts, their funding and awareness, is bringing QUALITY of life to brain cancer patients just like Dad.
I am so incredibly passionate about this cause, as I've witness the battle Dad has faced these last 16 months, and I feel as though it's part of my purpose here to help find a CURE for brain cancer.
Please consider joining us for our upcoming trip to 'Run For The Rose' on April 12, 2015. You can come join us by cheering us on, walking or running, or sending prayers for a successful day for our team, along with the foundation. Visit our team site for more information on donating to such an amazing cause and joining our team. With your help, we can and we will BTHO Brain Cancer!
http://runfortherose.racepartner.com/run-for-the-rose/bthobraincancer
Dad Update:
Another round of chemo pills come in today, which means next week will be a bit of a rough week for Dad both physically and mentally. We continue to pray the chemo is working to suppress any and all tumor growth! Another round of Avastin will take place next week as well, although the side effects of that treatment seem to be very manageable to Dad, and for that we are so incredibly thankful. Next week, Meghan and I will be attending an event held by the Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation, an event to thank supporters and to hear remarks about advances in brain cancer research. Should be a wonderful event surrounded by so many supporters of the foundation and brain cancer awareness.
We ask for continued prayers during our next round of treatment, as we continue fighting to BTHO Brain Cancer!
We currently have 56 team members and have raised $2,170 to date! To say the Glenz family is feeling the love and support of so many would be a complete understatement. Our hearts are so full!
Our goal this year is to have one of the largest teams on the course, and I think we are well on our way to doing just that! And our second goal is to raise $5,000 towards brain cancer research, at we've come so close to reaching our half way mark!
Dad is living proof of the strides and progress that is being made in brain cancer treatment and options. Years ago, a diagnosis like Glioblastoma gave patients two options- surgery and radiation. But fast forward to TODAY, and we currently have chemotherapy available and IV treatment (Avastin), which are both FDA approved. The brain cancer community is still very far away from catching up with other types of cancers in the realm of treatment options- but we are much closer than we were 5 years ago.
Brain Cancer has very limited FDA approved treatments, which means limited options for many patients diagnosed with this disease. With the help of the Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation we are changing the treatment options- allowing more clinical trials, which I have complete faith will turn into a cure. The Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation was created because of a NEED for brain cancer treatment options and awareness, and it was created because of the love they have for their daughter, who lost her battle to Glioblastoma, a battle that had very few options at the time of her diagnosis.
I am in constant contact with the foundation because I want them to know their efforts, their funding and awareness, is bringing QUALITY of life to brain cancer patients just like Dad.
I am so incredibly passionate about this cause, as I've witness the battle Dad has faced these last 16 months, and I feel as though it's part of my purpose here to help find a CURE for brain cancer.
Please consider joining us for our upcoming trip to 'Run For The Rose' on April 12, 2015. You can come join us by cheering us on, walking or running, or sending prayers for a successful day for our team, along with the foundation. Visit our team site for more information on donating to such an amazing cause and joining our team. With your help, we can and we will BTHO Brain Cancer!
http://runfortherose.racepartner.com/run-for-the-rose/bthobraincancer
Dad Update:
Another round of chemo pills come in today, which means next week will be a bit of a rough week for Dad both physically and mentally. We continue to pray the chemo is working to suppress any and all tumor growth! Another round of Avastin will take place next week as well, although the side effects of that treatment seem to be very manageable to Dad, and for that we are so incredibly thankful. Next week, Meghan and I will be attending an event held by the Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation, an event to thank supporters and to hear remarks about advances in brain cancer research. Should be a wonderful event surrounded by so many supporters of the foundation and brain cancer awareness.
We ask for continued prayers during our next round of treatment, as we continue fighting to BTHO Brain Cancer!
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
A Good MRI! Dad Update 2/11/2015
Monday I had my own doctor's appointment, with a doctor who knows my entire family and our fight these last 16 months. He, of course, asked about Dad, how Mom was handling everything and we discussed Dad's current treatment. I started rambling on, started talking about how the anticipation of the MRI results was probably the cause of my high blood pressure (or the fact that I consider myself a high stress individual), and I started talking about the statistics- the statistics that show the tumor SHOULD be back.
I'm no doctor. I actually know very little about most medical terms or procedures, although I've become somewhat knowledgeable in brain cancer treatments, as I find myself spending hours reading recent clinical trials and studies showing huge strides in brain cancer treatment. So, there are times when I read the statistics, statistics that say, "The recurrence rate for Glioblastomas is near 100%, with an average time to recurrence of 6 to 7 months." At 16 months post diagnosis, I am well aware recurrence SHOULD have already occurred.
But this doctor that I visited with just listened to my statistics, he listened as I shared the average time to recurrence, he listened as I shared the average lifespan of someone diagnosed with Glioblastoma, and then, he just calmly said- "Yeah, but those are just statistics. Those numbers have nothing to do with the patient. Those numbers really don't mean much."
Maybe he should have taken my blood pressure after he told me that, as I immediately felt calm. I immediately felt like someone, who knows all too well medical statistics, didn't seem to really care too much for what statistics showed. I'm assuming because in his 25+ years of being a doctor, he's seen statistics not mean too much, and for some reason, that is extremely comforting.
Dad's MRI yesterday appeared to look better than it did following his surgery and radiation. BETTER! We were in shock. We never anticipated the MRI's to appear better, as we've always said that if this is as good as it gets, then we can fully accept that. The MRI's also show that the Avastin treatment is in fact working, which is also extremely comforting after reading so many different studies with inconclusive finding if Avastin is able to treat Glioblastomas. We were overcome with relief, and for the first time, Dad seemed to have confidence in his MRI results.
We are so blessed. We've come so far in Dad's fight, and although the MRI did appear to look good, we still continue our treatment plan- chemotherapy and Avastin-and another MRI in about 6-8 weeks.
As blessed as we are, know that we still struggle with this new normal. A new normal for all of us. Dad still struggles with understanding why his speech and memory will never be the way they were before. We talked last night and discussed this struggle, we talked about the damage from the surgery, the radiation, and the bleed he had following the surgery. We talked about understanding our new normal, and sharing with Dad how far we've come on this journey.
I remember the week following Dad's return from the hospital was extremely difficult. There were many days were I would sit down with him and have the exact same conversation, over and over again, "Dad you had a tumor in your brain, it's cancer. They had to remove the tumor." And again I would have to say, "Yes Dad, you have brain cancer."
Each time, it was like I was telling him this information for the first time. Emotionally it was difficult for both him and I, but emotionally I didn't get to show fear or apprehension of the situation- instead I repeated the conversation over to him, as if it was the first time I was telling him, and eventually, his memory became better and he started to remember and understand.
It's amazing to think all of that was 16 months ago, although it truly feels like a lifetime ago. After receiving our wonderful news, I immediately emailed Lanie Rose, the founder of the Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation, and the mother to the late Dr. Marnie Rose. I wanted to share with her how well Dad was doing, to help validate that her fight to bring funding and awareness to brain cancer was in fact working! She responded in such a warm and comforting way, and again, made me realize how blessed we are to have found such a wonderful foundation:
"I am so excited to hear that wonderful news!!! It just keeps getting better and better. Tell your Dad he brightened my day. I send my love to all of you."
Emails like that. Hugs at other brain cancer runs. Those reasons just add to why I love to support such a wonderful foundation and continue to want others to participate in the 'Run For The Rose'. Since finding the Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation, we have never been alone in our fight, and they have continued to support so many others faced with the same difficult battle against brain cancer. I would love for each of you to join us on April 12, 2015 in Houston for the upcoming 'Run For The Rose', or consider making a donation to help support brain cancer research and treatment. Dad is living proof of the strides and progress that has been made in the brain cancer community, and I am so proud to help support continued progress. Visit our team page for more information on how to join the run, or to make a donation!
http://runfortherose.racepartner.com/run-for-the-rose/bthobraincancer
Thank you all for your continued love and support, and continue praying, as we continue fighting to BTHO Brain Cancer!
I'm no doctor. I actually know very little about most medical terms or procedures, although I've become somewhat knowledgeable in brain cancer treatments, as I find myself spending hours reading recent clinical trials and studies showing huge strides in brain cancer treatment. So, there are times when I read the statistics, statistics that say, "The recurrence rate for Glioblastomas is near 100%, with an average time to recurrence of 6 to 7 months." At 16 months post diagnosis, I am well aware recurrence SHOULD have already occurred.
But this doctor that I visited with just listened to my statistics, he listened as I shared the average time to recurrence, he listened as I shared the average lifespan of someone diagnosed with Glioblastoma, and then, he just calmly said- "Yeah, but those are just statistics. Those numbers have nothing to do with the patient. Those numbers really don't mean much."
Maybe he should have taken my blood pressure after he told me that, as I immediately felt calm. I immediately felt like someone, who knows all too well medical statistics, didn't seem to really care too much for what statistics showed. I'm assuming because in his 25+ years of being a doctor, he's seen statistics not mean too much, and for some reason, that is extremely comforting.
Dad's MRI yesterday appeared to look better than it did following his surgery and radiation. BETTER! We were in shock. We never anticipated the MRI's to appear better, as we've always said that if this is as good as it gets, then we can fully accept that. The MRI's also show that the Avastin treatment is in fact working, which is also extremely comforting after reading so many different studies with inconclusive finding if Avastin is able to treat Glioblastomas. We were overcome with relief, and for the first time, Dad seemed to have confidence in his MRI results.
We are so blessed. We've come so far in Dad's fight, and although the MRI did appear to look good, we still continue our treatment plan- chemotherapy and Avastin-and another MRI in about 6-8 weeks.
As blessed as we are, know that we still struggle with this new normal. A new normal for all of us. Dad still struggles with understanding why his speech and memory will never be the way they were before. We talked last night and discussed this struggle, we talked about the damage from the surgery, the radiation, and the bleed he had following the surgery. We talked about understanding our new normal, and sharing with Dad how far we've come on this journey.
I remember the week following Dad's return from the hospital was extremely difficult. There were many days were I would sit down with him and have the exact same conversation, over and over again, "Dad you had a tumor in your brain, it's cancer. They had to remove the tumor." And again I would have to say, "Yes Dad, you have brain cancer."
Each time, it was like I was telling him this information for the first time. Emotionally it was difficult for both him and I, but emotionally I didn't get to show fear or apprehension of the situation- instead I repeated the conversation over to him, as if it was the first time I was telling him, and eventually, his memory became better and he started to remember and understand.
It's amazing to think all of that was 16 months ago, although it truly feels like a lifetime ago. After receiving our wonderful news, I immediately emailed Lanie Rose, the founder of the Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation, and the mother to the late Dr. Marnie Rose. I wanted to share with her how well Dad was doing, to help validate that her fight to bring funding and awareness to brain cancer was in fact working! She responded in such a warm and comforting way, and again, made me realize how blessed we are to have found such a wonderful foundation:
"I am so excited to hear that wonderful news!!! It just keeps getting better and better. Tell your Dad he brightened my day. I send my love to all of you."
Emails like that. Hugs at other brain cancer runs. Those reasons just add to why I love to support such a wonderful foundation and continue to want others to participate in the 'Run For The Rose'. Since finding the Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation, we have never been alone in our fight, and they have continued to support so many others faced with the same difficult battle against brain cancer. I would love for each of you to join us on April 12, 2015 in Houston for the upcoming 'Run For The Rose', or consider making a donation to help support brain cancer research and treatment. Dad is living proof of the strides and progress that has been made in the brain cancer community, and I am so proud to help support continued progress. Visit our team page for more information on how to join the run, or to make a donation!
http://runfortherose.racepartner.com/run-for-the-rose/bthobraincancer
Thank you all for your continued love and support, and continue praying, as we continue fighting to BTHO Brain Cancer!
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