Friday, November 30, 2007

Update on Paw Paw


Many of you have been asking for news on Paw Paw. Some of you knew that we were making visits to the doctor and that he is having problems with his kidneys. His primary care physician said that these problems were because of his age but sent us to a doctor that would get him ready for dialysis. Monday was his surgery to get his veins ready. They put him out and did a procedure that combined a vein and an artery. Something called a fistula.
I think that is spelled right.
He did pretty good but anytime you put someone that old out--there will be lasting effects.
Meanwhile the kidney doctor sent us to a blood specialists because blood work showed that Paw Paw was severely anemic. The results from the lab work let them know that it was all more than just age. This is what the lab work shows he has.

Multiple myeloma (also known as MM, myeloma, plasma cell myeloma, or as Kahler's disease after Otto Kahler) is a type of cancer of plasma cells which are immune system cells in bone marrow that produce antibodies. Its prognosis, despite therapy, is generally poor, and treatment may involve chemotherapy and stem cell transplant. It is part of the broad group of diseases called hematological malignancies.

The only cure for this type of cancer is bone marrow transplant. And of course with his age-- 92--that is of course not an option.
I am learning a little more each day about the effects of the cancer. It is in the blood and it attacks the organs.
Now we know why the problem with the kidneys.
They are setting up appointments for a body ex ray and a bone marrow check. Once we find out how advanced it is then Paw Paw can decide if he wants to be treated. We have our own opinions on that but it will be his choice.
One of the doctors today said that he would be surprised if we have three months. But the final say is Gods. He set his days before he was even born.
It hurts my heart. I have never really had much contact with my father in law until these last 7 months. After my mother in laws death he remarried and she did not want to have much to do with our side of the family. So although I knew him I was not really emotionally involved with him.
Now I am.
We have lots of appointments ahead of us. Paw Paw and I are pretty much constant companions. I will try and keep up with everyone. But if I get a little behind it is not by choice. I'll stop in when I can.
Pray for my husband and our family. Pray that we will make the most of the time. Pray that Paw Paw will have some peaceful happy time and not be in pain and misery.
Thank you for your prayers, love and support.
Love you guys.

17 comments:

MelanieJoy said...

Well, now I know why you were out and about in blogland so late. My heart just aches for you guys right now. Know as we speak Paw Paw, Keith, you and the rest of the family are in my prayers. You are such a wonderful person to open your home and heart to your father-in-law. Keep "Leaning on the Everlasting Arms" and keep up your physical strength/rest.
Thank you also for your prayers for my sister. You are loved my friend!

Anonymous said...

If I raise my eyes to the hills from where will my help come? My help comes from Adonai the maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip--your guardian is not asleep. No, the guardian of Israel never slumbers or sleeps.

Adonai is your guardian, at your right hand. Adonai provides you with shade--the sun can't stike you during the day or even the moon at night.

Adonai will guard you against all harm, he will guard your life. Adonai wil guard your coming and going from now and forever.

Anonymous said...

This Psalm always brings comfort in circumstances that go way beyond our control and comprehension. I live in an area where mountains (foothills) are all around us and I can't see beyond them. (Mountains/hills of circumstances) and yet just on the other side of those hills is more than what I can see now. It seems helpless and yet it's not because in the midst of helplessness there is the Lord with help, faithfully.

Cahleen @ The Alt Story said...

You are a wonderful daughter-in-law! I'll pray for your dear paw paw.

Old Folks Blog said...

Hi Sharon,I am Paul,better known as Bobo.I will be 90 the tenth of Dec.and live with my wife Helen,just outside my eldest daughter home.She and her great husband Dennis,had a modile home put on their property for us,real nice.
I just had a check-up and my kidnies need, more moisture and my cholestroal is high and left neck artery a little blocked,other than that,all is fine.I said all that to let you know,I know your feelings,am sure my daughter feels the same way about me.I told them at 90 years of age there is no way
I will go through any more procedures,I put it all in God's hands and enjoy the few years I may have left,enjoying the time with my family.The Lord blessed me with a good life,so I will stick to His time table.
Will keep your family in my prayers.
God Bless.

Mom Gidcumb; Dad Gidcumb said...

Sharon and Keith,

Thanks so much for the update on Mr. Bert. You know our prayers are with him and the whole family. Our God is a God of ALL Comfort an EVER PRESENT HELP in every trouble.

Please let us know how we can help you.

You are a God-sent for their family.

Love ya,
MOM and DAD

Denise said...

Sis, my heart is hurting for your family. I am holding paw paw in my prayers. God be with you all. I love you very much.

Melanie said...

Praying for Paw Paw, you and your family!

Anonymous said...

You all are definitely in my prayers!! I was down that road last year with my dad. (((hugs))) Stay close and know Jesus is with you every step of the way. your family is awesome!!

Denise said...

I see you met my Dad.. Paul at Old Folks Blog... He is a bit of a mess....... Our prayers are for you and PawPaw... I understand what it is like to care for the parents... My husband Dennis and I have had Mom and Dad out here for 6 months and before that they were about 15 mins from us... This is much better but some days are hard... We are thankful that they do as well as they do taking care of themselves........ but always knowing that we are close....

Blessings to you this day,,,

Mary said...

Sharon,

My heart aches for you and your family and I will definitely keep all of you, especially Paw Paw, in my prayers.

Blessings,
Mary

Halfmoon Girl said...

I think Paul was very sweet to comment. Imagine being cool enough to have a blog at his age!

I didn't expect to hear this news about Paw Paw. Very tough for you all. I will definitely pray. I am glad you have each other at this time.

Sandi said...

I will pray for Paw Paw too. I pray for you too as care giver.

Anonymous said...

Holding you in my heart and in my prayers! :o)

Connie Barris said...

you know I can't read this without crying.. I know where you are..

I'm right alongside you .. with my dad...

I will add Paw Paw to my prayers...

I love you Sharon...Be blessed

Kellan said...

Sharon, I'm sorry to hear about Paw Paw and his health troubles. I also called my grandfather Pa-paw. I am glad that he has you to help him and look after him. I will keep all of you in my prayers. Take care.

Lisa N Alexander said...

Sharon...prayers for all of you. I pray God's strength for you. Love you here in Houston.