Left Out in the Cold

Good Afternoon Family and Friends,

I just received a message from my cousin Sylvia in Tennessee.  She is wondering how we are doing because she has not seen an update in a while.  Thank you Sylvia for the prompt.  I admit that I have left my fellow bloggers out in the cold.  It is currently 21 degrees with snow flurries here in central Ohio.  Please come in out the cold and take a minute to catch up with us...

Dad is doing really good.  Today begins his fourth week of radiation.  He has experienced very few side effects from these treatments, nothing like the chemo treatments.  We are praising God!  The only thing is that he has to go downtown for treatments every day during the week.  But they are managing well.  I just spoke with Mom on the phone, Dad is driving and there is no snow in Detroit.  We are grateful that they live so close to Karmanos, some people have to drive a great distance to receive treatments.

Dad will most likely begin the chemo treatments again after the radiation treatments end sometime in January.  The oncologist will take a few scans about two weeks after radiation ends in order to determine the effects of the treatments.  We are already praising God for continued victory and total manifestation of healing!

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend.  We celebrated Mom's birthday that Sunday.  We are looking forward to Christmas with the Robertson family.  Mom and Dad will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Christmas Eve.  My Uncle Robert and Aunt Laura will celebrate their 50th as well on the same day.  That's right, sisters married cousins on the same day!  Happy Anniversary Uncle Robert and Aunt Laura D.

My siblings and I had begun plans for a big celebration at the Gaylord Hotel in Nashville before Dad was diagnosed.  Unfortunately we won't be able to do that just yet, but we will mark the occasion.  Please send your congrats via mail, phone, or blog.

Thank you again for coming in out of the cold.  I apologize for leaving you out there for so long.  You are welcome to stay in a little longer and warm your toes.  While you do, please browse the pictures below and write a response.  We would love to hear from you.  Honestly, it helps me to write when I know someone is out there reading.  It's hard to have a conversation with yourself, if you know what I mean.  Thanks Sylvia.  We love you all and covet your continued prayers.

P.S.  Hey cousin Benny, I did get your last post and I did share it with Dad.  I apologize for not responding.  Please hang in there with me.  I appreciate you.



Dad and Mom




















Happy Birthday Mom!





Harry and Yolanda
Happy Birthday Yolanda!



At Aaron's School Play
Back Row: Cindy (Aaron's Mom)
Middle Row: Angie, Taniesha, Mom, Dad, Harry, and Aaron (Dorian's son)
Front Row:  Sheronda, Yolanda





Leif and Marcus



So Much to be Thankful For

Happy Thanksgiving Family and Friends!  God is so very Faithful to all of us!!

I just wanted to take this time and Praise our Wonderful-Glorious- God.  He is just so very Amazing.  I am thankful for so many things and I am sure you are as well. 

Please take this next week and slow the pace, enjoy your loved ones, and most importantly, Thank our God for His enduring Love. 

The Ruffus Robertson family will be doing the same.

We Love You.

Missing You

Fellow Bloggers, 

I do apologize for the MAJOR lapse in time.  As you can imagine so much has transpired since we last spoke.  Dad is home now.  He is doing good.  After his fourth chemotherapy treatment his doctor ordered a Echo cardiogram test for his heart.  One of the chemo meds has an adverse effect on the heart so they wanted to see how his was doing seeing that he has had several bypass surgeries.  Well the results told them that he needed to sit out his next couple of chemo treatments to allow his heart functions to get better.  The test he took which gave this information is called a MUGA Scan.  (compared to the echo, it gives a more accurate result)

Now they would like to began radiation therapy for the next six weeks beginning mid November.  Chemotherapy will probably resume after the radiation treatments.

The good news is....drum roll please........THE TUMOR HAS DECREASED IN SIZE BY A LITTLE MORE THAN 50% !!!!!

We are praying for wisdom.  Thanking our God for all that He has done on Dad's behalf.  Looking ahead for complete manifestation of his healing.  Moreover, praising God for you and your continued prayers.

Home With Family

Hi All,  Dad's stay at Karmanos for this 4th treatment went pretty well.  As with the last administration of these particular chemotherapy drugs his blood cell levels begin to drop before he was scheduled to leave the hospital.  So the decision was made to keep him an extra day so that he could get another blood transfusion.  Except for a few delays all went well and they made it home on Friday afternoon. 

Before going to get his Neulasta shot on Saturday, he and Mom picked up my sister Natalie and my aunt Lois from the bus station.  They are visiting from Tennessee for the week.  My aunt Lois is who I call my 'auntie-mom'.  Natalie and I spent all our summers in Tennessee, Uncle Milton and Aunt Lois' house was 'home base'. 

Dad mentioned today that he could hardly feel the indentation of the tumor on the outside of his chest wall.  He will have another CT scan and an echo cardiogram on Friday.  We will know after these test what the next steps for treatment will be.

God Bless all of you.  We love you.

He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.  Psalm 107:20

4TH Treatment For 4 Days

Greeting Family and Friends,

I just spoke to Dad and they are checking into Karmanos for his 4th treatment cycle of chemotherapy.  Dad sounds good.  Said he slept "pretty good" but was sleepy now.  We both agreed that he could forget about sleep now, he's at 'hotel revolving door'.  Where their motto is: We wait until we think you're sleeping then burst into your quiet atmosphere with a loud greeting to take your blood pressure for the one hundreth time today!

This cycle was originally set up as a five day treatment.  But because Dad had a bout with neutropenia the last time it was administered, his oncologist decided to reduce it by one day.

Vocabulary Review: neutropenia- A condition or side effect of the chemo where the white blood cells decrease, which inturn affects the body's ability to fight off infections. 

Please keep them lifted up in prayer this week, as these times are the most strenuous. 

Prayer Focus:

• For Mom's strength and blood pressure regulation- total healing in her body.
• That the tumor responds effectively to this treatment.
• No side effects from this treatment
• Wisdom and percision for the medical staff
• And of course remember Dorian, because of all that is going on we have not been able to go see him.  Pray for his imminent return to us and favor with those in decission-making positions.   His birthday is next month. (11/23)  Please help us celebrate by sending him cards, written prayers, and pictures in the mail. Our goal is 100 pieces of mail!  Send two or more if you can. Dorian is a wonerful blessing and encouragement to our family and we KNOW God is working on his behalf. 

Mr. Dorian L. Robertson 512334
Cooper Street Correctional Facility
3100 Cooper St.
Jackson, MI  49201 

Note: you must include the number after his name or the mail will be returned to you.
If it is your desire, please send all monetary gifts in money orders made out to Dorian, envelope addressed to Mom and Dad's address in Detroit. (please email  me for their address if needed) Monetary mail is not accepted at his facility.

Please know that this act of kindness will not only encourage Dorian, but it will also encourage Dad and Mom.

Thank you for your love, prayers, and support.

Staying Warm

Just spoke to Dad earlier today.  His appointment with the oncologist went well.  He's free to roam about until his 4th treatment cycle in mid October!  A few more side effects, including fatigue, but doing well otherwise.  When I called I asked him if he was having a good day?  His reply to me was, "Yeah, I guess because I woke up this morning it's a good day."  I said, "yes Daddy, you're right."  His words changed the  face of my day.  I messed up.  The question I should have asked is:  Dad, How are you feeling today?

He was outside enjoying his 'personal space' staying warm.  We spoke of cool Fall days approaching, rap and football stars who waste their money on stuff, and how we should have gotten tickets to go up to 'The Big House' at U of M for a game.  We had made preliminary plans to charter a bus for family and friends to go to the Classic game in Indianapolis next month. We also talked about that.  We're now making plans for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Trusting God for renewed strength and total healing!

Promise Land, TN

I waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry. Psalm 40:1

What Would You Do?

Finally...It seemed like months since I'd been home, so Harry, the girls, an I drove up to see about Mom and Dad this weekend.  We were going to surprise them, but Harry wanted Mama's famous catfish nuggets and fries for dinner so I had to call ahead and put our order in.  And of course Dad made his  famous toss green salad made fresh with his garden veggies.  Dad makes the salad even when he's not feeling up to it.  He complains that Mom and I only use lettuce and cucumbers. He,on the other hand, finely chops up all sorts of peppers, onions, tomatoes, etc.   We stayed up with Dad and watched the Honeymooners, with Cedric the Entertainer.  (I thought of you cousin Ben) Getting him a dose of laughter.

Dad is doing fine, not moving fast but moving nonetheless.  He has gained some of his weight back and looks good.  He was up early Saturday morning for his morning walk.  Dad does experience some pain and a constant headache.   However I believe boredom is his greatest side effect.  I'm thinking of getting him an Internet job. He goes back to the doctor Wednesday and won't have treatment again until the 2nd week in October. 

Harry and I have been making a few updates around the house while there and we needed to go by The Home Depot to get a few supplies.  As we were walking towards the store we noticed a man's legs hanging out of the drivers side of a jeep window, fresh broken glass on the ground next to it! It took us both several seconds to actually process this picture. In milliseconds I thought, 'Did this guy break his own window b/c he locked himself out? NO...  But if so, why didn't he just open the door?  Why did he jump through the broken glass, what is he fidgeting with in the dashboard?  After those seconds passed we both realized that this thug was stealing the radio or some other device out of this Jeep! Mind you, it is 1:00 p.m., broad daylight!

Now we have stopped, but others are walking by, looking in the direction we're looking and pointing, but saying nothing. They're just shaking their heads and moving on.  I don't have my phone so I tell Harry to get his cell phone and dial 911. While he's describing what is happening right in front of us to the  dispatcher, I notice a man in a grey Suburban parked directly  in front of the jeep. (engine running)  He and I make eye contact, then he says to me, 'ain't nun-a-my business'.  By now the thief is squirming backwards out of the broken window, stereo in hand,  and jumps into the grey Suburban!  They pull out of the parking lot and down the street.  Harry tells the dispatcher that he's now gone and which direction the driver is heading.  Harry and another lady, who catches up to us and explains she also saw what happened, head into the store to report to the store manager.

With all that is in me I knew that Harry wanted to rush the guy, drag him out of that Jeep and beat the snot out of him.  But every time he moved towards the vehicle I motioned him back.  If I had known the Suburban was the get-a-way truck I'd gone around the back of the truck to get his plate number. (Michigan doesn't have front plates and at the time I didn't connect the dots)
Our first thoughts were that this guy is vandalizing someones vehicle, its wrong, and he must be stopped.  The second thought was if we don't do something now, it could be our vehicle the next time. I'm aware we were in Detroit and it wasn't worth taking a bullet, but it was worth a phone call to the police.

What would you Do?




Robertson Family Reunion Dickson, TN 2006



Now WHERE did the rest off the Family go? Oh it's clean up time so you fanished.... :-)



Night At The Movies

Just wanted to let you know that Dad's appointment last Wednesday went well.  The CT Scan shows that the tumor continues to shrink.  All his blood work numbers were pretty good. No temperature.  He enjoyed just being home.  Dad is having a little trouble sleeping at night and the issue with the fatigue, but otherwise very few side effects to note.

Cousin Joe and Gloria (mom's nephew and niece) from Tennessee visited Dad and Mom this weekend.  What a wonderful surprise!  We are so very blessed to have such wonderful family and friends.  Over the years I have had so many of my personal friends say that they have never witnessed such closeness in a family.

One of the things that is so unique about my family is the closeness of my paternal and maternal families. My parents are both from very small nearby communities in Tennessee.  There was only one high school for Blacks in their area.  Mom and her six siblings and Dad and his six siblings attended the same high school. Each of their families with children around the same age.  So it works out that almost everyone of Mom siblings was in the same graduating class as of one of Dad's.  It might sound cheesy to you, but it's so neat to me.  Needless to say, my Dad and Mom were high school sweethearts!  Dad, I hear, was a basketball and football star while Mom was their class valedictorian.  Sounds like the the making of a movie, doesn't it?  Anyway, what this affords me is a cousin base of about 1 million! :-)  No not really, but almost.  Fast forward 50 years married and here we are.

Dad and Mom checked into Karmanos this morning for the administering of chemotherapy cycle #3.  This was the first time I was not able to go with them. (sidebar:  I couldn't drive because I fell and broke a bone in my arm when Harry and I took the kids roller skating a week ago- Friday)   We called and prayed with Mom early this morning.  And I know you all are yet praying too. 

Again I say, thank you.  Your love, calls, cards, visits, and prayers reach far beyond the surface of our hearts and most importantly God's heart.

 I needed clothes and you clothe me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me...When did we see you sick or in prison and go visit you?...The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'  
Matthew 25: 36, 39, and 40  NIV (Please read the entire of Matt 25:31-46 in order to fully understand this verse of scripture)

Prayer and Praise Focus:

• Wisdom for the Doctors 
• Steady-clean hands for the nurses and technicians who will care for Dad via touching him and his power port
• The tumor continues to respond to the chemotherapy by shrinking and not spreading 
• That during this journey Dad is transformed, even more, to the man that God has called him to be
• Dynamic strength for Mom  
• And please pray for Dorian as well

Dad and Mom 46 Wedding Anniversary

God Bless.

Renewed Strength

Dad has been regaining his strength since his return home last Monday.  Remember he was hospitalized unexpectedly on the 2nd of September when he went in for a blood infusion.  His temperature was almost 103 degrees and his blood counts were way low.

Dad had several out of town visits this weekend from some of our family in Ohio.  Uncle Hubert and Uncle Jack went up for the day on Saturday.  And Uncle John and Aunt Francine drove up yesterday evening.  They left this morning.  Dad had a great time!

I am actually on the phone with him now.  He sounds so much better than he did when I left Detroit last week.  He is still a little tired, but able to get up and move about.  He is watching the game right now.  He says Hi to all.  He had a CT Scan on Friday.  Just to see how the tumor is responding to the chemotherapy treatments.  We already know that it is shrinking....but hopefully we will get the specifics.   His follow-up appointment is on Wednesday.  Thanking you in advance for your continued prayers.

I'll be looking for your comments.  Talk to ya soon.

M-Go Blue!!!! August 2010

Yolanda and Dad 2006 Cumberland Furnance, TN

A Salute To Our Service Men and Women

As you all know this day is the 9th anniversary of 9/11.  I didn't want to allow the day to go by without respectfully saying Thank You to all the men and women who serve our country in various capacities: our Armed Forces, our Police, our Firemen/women, Emergency Personnel, and all others.  Let us never forget those who lost their lives that day, and also those who continue to fight for our freedoms and safety.  Let us also remember the families of those who serve our nation, cities, and communities.

And for those of you who do not know, my Dad also falls in this line of heroes.  My Dad is a retired City of Detroit, Michigan Firefighter.  Dad became a firefighter when I was still in elementary school.  I remember clearly his training and eventual graduation as a firefighter.  If I remember correctly, he was one of the oldest if not, the oldest, cadet in his class and the one with the highest test scores. This he accomplished after working for the Ford Motor Company for years.

I grew up knowing my Dad ran into danger and not away from it.  It is sobering for a child to realize that their parent may go to work one morning and may not return home the next because of the dangers of their job.  I was extremely proud of my Dad being a firefighter.  He was the Dad who was involved in PTA meetings.  He came up to the school in his firefighter uniform on Career Day.  I even remember the kids in my high school announcing to me, "Yolanda we saw your Dad down here today", when someone would pull the fire alarm in the hall in order to interrupt Final's Week. 

Thank you Dad for your service to your community.  We love you!

Dad and Cousin Essie Gilbert
(one of our BEST Community Service Workers)

Things That Go Bump in the Night

Ok, I was not going to share this little bit of information with you.  But as I grow older I am learning to laugh at myself.  When I was home last and Dad was in the hospital I decided to go back to the house the second night I was there.  Mom and I usually alternate staying at the hospital with Dad overnight.  Well I waited until late to leave the hospital but it was still light outside.  When I got to the house I was exhausted and hungry.  So my plan was to eat a bit, shower and rest.  Nice quiet house, no children, no dog, no nurses waiting until you dose off to come in the room to take vitals...just me and silence, right?

Well, after I arrive I walk through the main floor of the house and look around-all is normal.  So I eat a hot dog and decide I'll try and find a movie I can watch after my shower.  I'm sitting at the dinning room table and hear the floor squeeking in the hallway, as if someone is walking back there!  I jump to my feet!  And grab the van key off the table and stand in the doorway between the living room and dinning room. "Alright, Yolanda, no one is in here but you," this is what I'm saying to myself.  I stand totally still and quiet to see if I hear it again.  All I hear afterwards is the bushes scrapping against the side of the house and living room window.  After I get my heart rate to slow down, I sit back down at the table and continue reading the store ads left there by Dad two mornings ago.

Now, back to peace.  Focus Yolanda. Relax.  So, before my shower I decide to find a movie that I can watch while I do my hair.  So I go to the kitchen and look down the basement stairs...Although the light is on in the laundry room I decide that it is not necessary to venture down there to find a movie.  So, my next thought is- go upstairs to Mom and Dad's room....  Before I do this I pick up my cell phone and call Harry just to let him know that I'm at the house.  When I get to the bottom of the stairs I flip the light switch on and SWOOSH....CLANK!!!! This noise came from up stairs.  I shout out!  Who's there???!!!!  In a whispered voice I inform Harry that I just heard someone upstairs.  He ask, "are you sure".  "YES, I'm sure!," I whisper-shout back at him.  "You want me to call the police?" he asks. (for some reason he's now whispering too) "YES, CALL THE POLICE", I say loud enough for the intruder to hear.  "Do you really want me to call," he asks.  "NO" I whisper, I just want whoever is up there to hear me.  "It's probably a squirrel, right Harry?," I whisper again in the phone.  "I'VE GOT-A-GUN!," I yell out. Nothing... Dead Silence.

Well you don't have to tell me but twice....I grabbed the house phone and called Mom at the hospital and quickly explain to her what just happened.  The whole time I'm gathering up my purse to get out of the house.  Mom tells me to come on back down to the hospital and spend the night with her and Dad.

When I get back to the hospital room Dad just shakes his head and says, "Yolanda, what exactly did you hear?" "Dad, I don't know, but something is in your house." I exclaim.  "Well, you're safe now", Mom assures, "Lay down a get some rest."  And that is what I did. (now that I think about it, the funny thing is, neither one of them seemed to be too excited about my experience with someone in their house)

The next morning Mom and I arise early to go to the house.  Mom declares, "We're going home to kick the devil out of my house".  When we arrive and go upstairs I notice papers on the floor.  "Mom, were those there on the floor when you left the house?" I inquire.  "I don't know," Mom replies.  Then I walk over to the bed and discover that the window is open.  Just as I aproach the wind blows the blinds and they clash against the bed.  "MOM.....you didn't tell me the window was open up here."  "That's who my intruder was."  We complete the prayer and walkthrough and all was well again.

Lesson learned:  Don't try to be brave when you are operating on low energy levels...physical and spiritual
RUN!!!!!! Then Pray:-)

Uncle June I dedicate this post to you:  I'll never laugh at the family jokes about you leaving all the lights on in the house down in the "FOOT" again.

To all of you who don't know, the "FOOT" is a inside family term for our land in Promise Land, Tennessee.

Papa and Sheronda at her 2007 Howard University Graduation

For God hath not given us a spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.  II Timothy 1:7

Set Free....

Update:  I just received a phone call from Mom a couple of hours ago.  They are home!  Dad sounded great this morning.  His blood cell numbers are up, and his temperature is down.  Praise Be To Our God!  He is so Faithful!

Thank you, all of you for your vigilant prayers.

Confess your faults one to another, and pray for another, that ye may be healed.  The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.  James 5:16

Going Home

Saturday morning 6:00 a.m. the fever broke! Praise God! The nurse's aid announced that Dad's temperature was 37.2 Celsius, which converts to 98.6 Fahrenheit. His temperature had been 100 degrees or above since we arrived on Wednesday.  It was exactly 102.8 when they announced that he would not be getting a blood transfusion that day or going home. 
They finally administered the blood transfusion on Thursday, late evening.  Before receiving the blood and antibiotics Dad was very lethargic. Afterward, he was returning to his normal self, asking questions, giving orders, and debating with CNandN (CNN).

All Dad talked about was going home.  However in order to go home his temperature has to be below 100 degrees for at least 48 hours and they would like for those blood counts to begin to rise. Because he was feeling a little stronger I decided to return to Ohio. 

I spoke to Mom and Dad this morning.  Dad is up and doing much better.  However his platelets are now low.  Sooo....they want to do another transfusion.  After much discussion, it was agreed that Dad needed to stay a few more days. When making decisions we must always consider the fact that Dad is a heart patient. We must take special precautions because of that fact alone.  The final decision was his, and he was alright with it.

Veggies Mom and I picked from Dad's garden Saturday Morning.

Mom and Dad before I left to go home on Saturday

I want to say a special thank you to all our followers.  I know it takes an extra step and extra time to actually sign up. You are appreciated. The comments to Dad really lift his spirits.

And for those of you who have attempted to sign up and make a comment but have had difficultly doing so, I apologize.  Email me please, and I will put you in touch with my daughter, Sheronda.  She is willing to walk you through the process.

And to all others:  jump right in, the water is fine...

...And This Too Shall Pass

Now, where were we....Dad being home, extreme fatigue, really wiped out from this second treatment cycle. His follow up appointment on Wednesday revealed that his red blood cells were low, so were his white blood cells.  His doctor was concerned that he was experiencing neutropenia and anemia. One type of white blood cells is called neutrophil. When that count is low, it is called neutropenia. Remember it is important to watch for signs of infection when this occurs. And of course anemia occurs when the red blood cells are low.  That is the reason for the 'wiped out' feeling.  His blood pressure was low and his pulse was high. My interpretation: if your blood is low, then your heart has to work harder to move that blood through your body.  

Well, Dad's care team at Karmanos took that seriously.  Especially because of his heart history.  At first they were giving him a choice as to whether he wanted to and when he wanted to come in for a blood infusion (transfusion). But after they saw his total blood work results they strongly suggested that he come back this morning for blood. 
Once here they took Dad's vitals to prepare for the infusion and found that his temperature was above the 100.5 degree mark where they tell you to call your doctor or nurse immediately.  The transfusion has been postponed.  We were admitted into Karmanos this morning. They are giving Dad antibiotics, some fluids (not many), and working very hard to ward off infection while we wait for the Neulasta shot to kick in and rebuild those white blood cells. Primary goal: reduce that high temperature.

And yes, I said we.  I drove back to Detroit this morning around 5:00 a.m.  I was glad to see them (Dad and Mom), and I believe they were glad to see me.  Dad has already ask, "how long are you staying?" I told him he'd do anything to get me back here to stay with him :-)

Dad and His Brothers
Promise Land Festival 2010
Promise Land, TN

Today, Let's Be Aware- Silent No More

STOP THE WHISPER!!!
Today, September 1st begins Ovarian Cancer Awareness month.  As some of you may know this is not my first experience as a caregiver for a cancer patient.  Three weeks after the birth of my dear granddaughter her mother was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer.  She was 21 years old at the time. Her only symptom was bloating, which we thought was a result of her giving birth. Pain and discomfort sent her to the emergency room one night. What followed was emergency surgery and several months of chemotherapy.  Ovarian cancer has been known as the silent or whisper cancer because it's symptoms were believed to be very vague. Or symptoms not unusual to most women at some point and time.
My grand's mom made full recovery.  My plea to you is to know the signs of ovarian cancer. Don't ignore persistent (for more than one month) or worsening signs of bloating, abdominal pain, urinary changes-frequency or urgency, eating and feeling full quickly.
For more information on Ovarian Cancer please go to ovariancancer.org, howdini.com and search: ovarian cancer, or just google ovarian cancer.  If you are a male, please share this information with someone you love.

What's so extra about this post is that as I was preparing to write today the question came to me if Sarcoma Cancers have an awareness month. When I googled the question I found that there is currently an ongoing campaign for congressional recognition to make the month of July National Sarcoma Awareness month. Hmmm...July...July 13, 2010 is the day we received Dad's diagnosis of Ewing Sarcoma-Askin Tumor.

Save a life, break the silence -make someone aware today.

Papa and Leif

Papa and Leif the day we celebrated her mom being cancer free!
September 2008

"I need to forget-and laugh"

The title of this post was taken from the book I am reading called, "help me live-20 things people with cancer want you to know" by Lori Hope (title is lower case on book cover). In this chapter the author speaks of  therapeutic humor.  She quotes a cancer survior who says she chose joy. Because much of a cancer patient's days and nights are filled with unpleasent experiences often times including constant pain; emotional and physical this survior found hope in laughter. This survior tells how she felt less fear and anxiety when she was laughing.  She realized that comic distraction made her feel "normal".

Strange, Dad shared on this subject with me just this week when we checked into the hospital for cycle number two.  He said that when people called he wanted the conversation to be normal.  He didn't want to necessarily talk about cancer and treatments and the like.  He just wanted to talk...talk about whatever you'd normally call him and talk about.  So at that moment I knew I needed to take personal note of what he was sharing. I too, even as caregiver, need to remember that Dad is more than the cancer and that I need to treat him kindly, not differently. (subject of another chapter in the book)

Soooo.  I just spoke with him a little while ago.  He is extreamly fatigued. In his words, "wiped out". He says he has felt nothing like this ever before. I told him I bet he couldn't blow a feather away right now-he laughed.  He mentioned that he has trouble sleeping at night.  I offered to call his doctor tomorrow and ask for something that might help him sleep. We then talked about how he has never had trouble sleeping. As a matter of fact he says family use to tell him that he slept too much.  I reminded him that I too have that issue.  We laughed even harder. After a few more memories shared I announced, "Ok Dad, I need to let you get  off the phone so that you can rest.  I know you'll be yourself again in a few days. I'll call you tomorrow. I love you." His response, "I love you too".

Video: Christmas at my house 2006

A happy heart is good medicine and a cheerful mind works healing, but a broken spirit dries up the bones. Proverbs 17:22 AMP

Let's Catch Up

Hey fellow Bloggers.  It has been almost a week since I last updated the site. It was a long.....week for Dad and Mom. He stayed on the inside (hospital) until Friday night. It was late when they checked out, but he was determined to go home on Friday and not Saturday.  All went well in the administration of the second cycle treatment.
 I spoke with him on Saturday morning and guess where he was and what he was doing???  You got it!  Outside in his garden picking tomatoes! And I heard he picked one very large tomato!  OK, you know me, I ask the typical spoil all his fun questions...Dad do you have on sunscreen, a hat, and long sleeves? He assured me that he had not been out there long but he did have on a hat.
When I ask, How are you feeling today", he said the usual, "Oh, I feel fine." He actually sounded a little tired to me.  But again fatigue is to be expected after such a heavy dose of chemo.
I did not get to stay the week this time so I feel like I missed a lot.  I'm such the mother hen that some of his nurses even asked about my whereabouts.

Uncle Jack, Dad, Joe, and Sonny
2007

Dad received his regular Neulasta shot this morning. Remember it is given to build white blood cells and is to be administered no sooner than 24 hours after the last dose of chemotherapy is given and more than 14 days before beginning the next chemotherapy cycle. He'll return to his oncologist for a check up on Wednesday of this week.

P.S.  I realize that some of the pics may seem random, but I try to pick those which make Dad smile when I show him the blog. (he usually wants me to print the picture if he doesn't have a copy of it)

The Excursion-Course II

We checked into Karmanos this morning for the beginning of Dad's second treatment cycle.  Dad's labwork looked good.  His hemogolbin was a tad low but they are keeping an eye on it. Overall, as stated before, his doctors are pleased about his general health after the first treatment.  A few issues, but no major side effects.  Dad's hair is even growing back from the low cut he received last week!

This treatment will take the entire week. Two different chemo drugs will be administered this week. (there were three on the first cycle) There is a total of five in all. Dad is in good spirits. He even dressed up this morning for his big event :-) But you know my Dad, unless he's down on the farm in Promise Land, he's always dressed for the occasion.

Dad and Mom Checking in for Cycle No. 2

My trip will probably be cut short this week because Tiffany begins 4th grade on Wednesday.  I could have made her my traveling buddy this trip b/c she's home schooled, but she possesses a tad more energy than I can take when I need to focus on Dad's health matters.

Please keep Dad and Mom in you prayers this week. Post, Post, Post all your wonderful comments.  I'd hate for him to get bored this week since he has no puzzle of Promise Land School.

A Refreshing Moment

Oh my, you won't believe what happened while we were waiting for Dad to get his blood drawn before his appointment on Monday...(I forgot to share this)

There is a large waiting area with at least 40 seats. Then there is a smaller room where the patients retreat for their blood work to be drawn. When we entered the waiting area there were only about 10 people there.  Very unusual for there to be so few. Nonetheless, we noticed a elderly black couple there awaiting their turn.  (you often can't tell who the patient is when you're awaiting 'your turn')

Anyway the male nurse came out and called, "M__. Robertson"! So Dad spoke up and said, "right here". Well, at the same time the elderly couple responded as well, "right here". In that split second we all looked at one another and smiled. We realized that our families had the same surname. The nurse, now realizing that he had caused some bewilderment among this small group, clearly called out, "Mrs. Robertson...Mrs. Hattie Robertson"!!!  At that moment our smiles turned wide... As the elderly woman grabbed her walker to brace herself to stand Mom leaned over and said, "Hattie, that was my husband's mother's name, Hattie Robertson". She responded with a smile as wide as ours, "Well, is that so"?

Anyone of you who knew my Mama Hattie can attest to why this 'refreshing moment' gave all of us a warm fuzzy feeling on the inside.

It's the simple things in life....

My son, keep thy father's commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother: bind them continually upon thine heart, and tie them about thy neck. When thou goest, it shall lead thee; when thou sleepest, it shall keep thee; and when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee.  Proverbs 6:20-22

Promise Landers
April 2010

The Update

Praise Be to God Who Always Causes Us To Triumph in His Name ! Praise Him for the good report!

Today we had our first doctor's appointment since the end of the first cycle.  The doctors were pleased/surprised to be able to see how the tumor has shrunk.  (Dad's tumor is 'inside' his chest, however, there is a portion of the tumor which protrudes out.) This part is visibly smaller.  Translation: The tumor is responding to the chemo; it is shrinking!  The doctors mentioned that all his white and red blood cell counts are good, his liver and kidney functions are good. No major side effects...Her words paraphrased- your body withstood the treatment.

This was a BIG DAY!!! Dad also had his barber cut his hair down, waaaay low.  There was evidence that it was beginning to leave... I have to say that he was somewhat apprehensive about this side effect, but he did it.  He even went down in his stock and found a few hats that compliment his new look. We laughed alot.

Dad and Harry ended the day with their normal social-political-economic debate....my life married to a conservative and the daughter of a liberal... Life Is Good.

O Lord my God, I called to you for help and you healed me.  Psalm 30:2

Dad's New Look

Up and About

Almost a week since the last chemo was administered and Dad is up and about.  I just spoke with Mom and he is outside with Aaron (Dorian's son) supervising him cutting the lawn.  Like the garden, the lawn is a special project that must receive the 'owners' attention.

Dad and Tiffany

God has truly blessed Dad with a good week.  And for that we are grateful.

Dad and Jana'y

These pictures of Dad and my girls on his motorbike were taken a couple weeks before his treatments began.  You can't keep a good man down!

Aaron, Mr. 4.1 GPA

There are Three of Us

Hi All, I just spoke to Dad.  He is doing OK.  He said today was better than yesterday.  Yesterday was a low energy level day.  He said he felt wiped out all day. But today he could move around a little more. Fatigue from chemotherapy can range from a mild to extreme feeling of being tired.  Often times 'resting' does not help.

I've been trying to think of some simple activities he can do alone or with us while he is gaining his strength back. Dad is funny, we have board games, but he is not interested in those.  I thought about getting a picture of the Promise Land School and Church made into a jigsaw puzzle, but Mom said he told me he didn't want to work a puzzle either (I thought this was for sure a winner)...so, I'm at a loss right now.  Any suggestions, please send your comments.

I speak as often as I can to my two siblings, Natalie and Dorian. They have been a blessing to me.  Although neither can be with Dad like I can right now, they are active in decision making and moral support for Mom and I.
Natalie was able to visit Detroit a few weeks ago.  She and Dorian are my "Aaron" and "Hur".  They uphold my hands when I feel weak, like Aaron and Hur did for Moses.  They keep me encouraged. They are the best intercessors I know, only second to the Queen, our Mom.  Our mother, taught us how to pray, how to stand in the gap and stay on the wall for someone else.

Dorian

Natalie, Yolanda (me), and my grand baby-Leif

And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before Me for the land, that I should not destroy it; but I found none. Ezekiel 22:30

Home Again

God is Good; all the time! We (Dad, Mom, and I) awoke to a beautiful cool Summer morning. Our first night home was uneventful. We were all so glad to be in our own space. It felt like we had been away for months... The first thing Daddy did was go out to his garden.  He had been concerned about the the lack of water it had experienced. But all was well in collard green, cucumber, tomato, and squash land.

Dad in his garden after treatment

We were up early for our 8am appointment at Karmanos. Yes, back there so soon.  24 hours after each treatment Dad has to get a Nuelasta shot to help rebuild new white blood cells. One of the major side effects of chemo is that it doesn't know the good cells from the cancer cells; so it attacks all the cells in an effort to kill the cancer cells. Low white blood cells put you at risk for an infection. It is so very important that we avoid this at all cost.

Soon after our appointment I headed 'home again', to Columbus. I had been there in Detroit since the 22nd of July. The look on the girls faces when they realized it was me pulling into the back yard was priceless! It was so hard to leave Mom and Dad, but it was so good to see my husband and my eaglets.
Harry told me that I would have two in D-town looking out the window waving goodbye and five looking out the window in Columbus in anticipation of my return home. :-)  I AM LOVED!
I slept for 7 hours....

Jana'y and Tiffany: Mommy's Home!

He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength...But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.  Isaiah 40: 29,31

What Am I Reading?

Everything! Everything I can get my hands on concerning Dad's diagnosis. How it is related to other cancers and medical journals with information from those who have studied this disease. Details on every chemothearphy drug administered, side effects of these drugs, etc. etc.
I thank God for the internet. But I am very cautious on the source of information.  However, so much of what the oncologist has told us; Harry and I had already researched online.

Information truly IS Power!   It provided us the knowledge necessary to ask 'informed' questions of his care team.
In times past you depended solely on the doctor and nurses to 'tell you' everything. And all you could do was trust them.  The internet has allowed us to search resources not only locally and nationally, but internationally as well.

I am also reading a book I checked out of the Cancer Resource Center here at Karmanos called "Help Me Live; 20 Things People With Cancer Want You To Know", by Lori Hope.  It talks about what to do and say (or not do and say) when someone you care about has been diagnosed with cancer.

Dad is very interested in knowing the ins and outs of his diagnosis.  He asks questions, and request that I write down the answers so that he can later read it and absorb it at his pace. This really pleases me.  He and Mom are making themselves available to learn all they can about this process towards healing.

Reading is Fundamental.

Hooray! First Cycle Completed

Dad completed his first cycle of chemo last night around 11:12 p.m. !!! Mom and I celebrated.  Dad didn't say much. We all prayed and praised and thanked our God for His awesome mercy and grace.  Dad did not get sick one time. They do medicate you for such things, but some still get nausea. He has also had a very good appetite while here.  Normally he doesn't eat very much at all.  Last night we found out that the steroid in one of the meds probably enhanced his appetite.  Mom and I didn't know what had happened to him, we were beginning to think that Mom had lost her skills in the kitchen and now hospital food tasted better. :-)What ever the reason, we're excited.  He was told by his doctor that he could eat anything b/c they want him to keep his strength and weight up. His first request after being told that was; pork skins. Showing his Tennessee roots...

Harry and Dad - May 2010

I lift up my eyes to the hills- where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.  Psalm 120:1-2 NIV

Caregiving

Good morning family and friends, Dad awoke confessing his daily scripture. He listens to a Kenneth E. Hagin Healing Scriptures CD throughout the night. One in particular that he has memorized: "My sickness (cancer) according to Deut 28:61 is a curse of the law, but according to Galatins 3:13 Christ has redeemed me from the curse of the law, therefore I no longer have cancer."

Dad is up and eating breakfast, reading his chemo info book, asking questions about his diagnosis/treatment, and giving me (and Mom) assignments.

He slept so much better last night. They give him a type of steroid to ward off some of the side effects in the chemo, this drug makes him a little 'wired'. So the night before was long. Last night, he slept sound for longer periods. Which in turn allows Mom and I to follow his sleep pattern.




Caregiving: Many of you have admonished us to make sure we take care of ourselves as we care for him. Thank you for thinking of us. (Not that we haven't cared for Dad before with all his heart surgeries, but this somehow seems different, more intense.) I really have to concentrate on taking care of me during this time. Sure, I've had my moments of being overwhelmed, missing home, while trying to keep up with my affairs-long distance. As many of you have experienced, advocating for a loveone can be very draining. You always have to stay 'on the wall', not only spiritually but also in the natural. But this morning I sat back and thought of all the hours my parents have spent providing for me, raising me, caring for me, praying for me (and now my family)...

This, what I'm doing, is just a walk in the park.

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
I Peter 5:7 NIV

WDKN Interviewing Dad at Promise Land Festival 2010

Comments

Hey family and friends, make sure you go back to the original article you posted your comments to in order to find a response from Dad. 

Thanks

Dad and Mom -This Year Makes 50!

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known unto God.  Philippians 4:6

Excursion-Course I

The word excursion is a synonym of the word journey meaning: a short trip or outing to some place, usually for a special purpose and with the intention of a prompt return. The intention is for Dad to return to good health promptly with God working out His purposes in and through Dad's life. And we all know that God appoints the time. Our timing is not always His. (So Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many people; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him. Hebrews 9:28)

Dad, Yolanda, Leif, Natalie, Mom

Dad began his first course (or cycle) of treatment yesterday. Only expecting to be around for a day his oncologist decided to take special care of Dad's heart and drip the chemo slower. So we'll be here a little longer.

Nontheless, Dad is doing great! He woke this morning in the best of moods. He has been talking all morning. Watching his favorite news show, what he calls (CNandN) LOL.

He is right now eating lunch, stir fry chicken, and watching Bonanza.

Family Visits

Me again, just testing with this entry to see if something different comes up at the end of the post for you to leave a comment.

Uncle Hubert, Uncle June, Dad-Then

While I'm here just wanted to thank my Uncle Hubert, Uncle June and Aunt Starlet for visiting Dad last weekend.  It is always so good to see them together. Uncle John could not make it, but said he'd be up here soon. Your visit was priceless to Dad, especially now. We know that our greatest earthly strength will come from our family and friends. Thanks to all of you who have called, sent cards, fruit baskets, planters, and most of all your love and prayers.

Dad, Uncle June, Uncle Hubert-Now

Blog Issues

Good Morning.  I have had several of you mention that you would like to comment on the blog but don't know how.  Well....I'm in the same boat.  Sorry.  I will figure it out and get back to you.  If any of you are proficient, please send me an email with your suggestions.  In the meantime please feel free to email me at yolanda.zellars@yahoo.com.

Dad is doing well.  Reading up on what to expect with chemo.  He loves his garden and has produced some awesome cucumbers.  If you know Dad, he loves a good salad, so I've had plenty since I've been up here.

Dad in the backyard

My husband Harry joined me this weekend.  It was good to see him.  I haven't been home in over a week. (I usually go home every week) I really miss my children:  Sheronda, Marcus, Jana'y and Tiffany. Oh, and our puppy, Prophet. Thanks you guys for holding down the fort.  Harry is a great Mr. Mom :-)
Dad says Hey, and thanks for joining us.

My brethern, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations. James 1:2

Now That We Know...

Dad had a third CT Scan and his first MRI of the brain on Tuesday of this week.  On Wednesday they  inserted a port in his arm that will be used to administer treatment and also to draw any needed lab work.  All these procedures went very well.
We met with the medical oncologist who determines treatment on Thursday.  Great News: the MRI was clean and the CT Scan did not show signs that the cancer has spread! Praise God!
The Details:  The diagnosis given is of an extremely rare cancer, it is of the Ewing Sarcoma type, which is considered of bone and/or soft tissue origin. This very rare cancer is usually found in children. In adults it is called a PNET or Askin tumor.
Dad's treatment cycle will begin next Tuesday.  Please continue to pray as the choice of chemotherapy is of a very aggressive nature.
Dad is doing good.  After our appointment Dad, Mom, Harry and I went to Ponderosa. This was Dad's choice.  He wanted a steak! We've laughed a lot in the last few days.  This has been good-for all of us.
Thanks for joining us.  Have a blessed Day.

My Dad and I

This is a picture of Dad and I in September of 2009. 

The Beginning

This blog is about Dad's journey, my journey, our family's journey to complete healing.

It was Mother's Day weekend 2010, and the pain which Dad had been experiencing in his neck had moved to his shoulders and chest. Mom asked if he wanted to go to the emergency room. Surprisingly, he said yes.
This visit produced a routine CT Scan that revealed a chest tumor. Dad was advised to go ahead and keep his planned trip to his second home in Tennessee for the famed Promise Land Festival.
So he did.  After a three week stay he returned home to Michigan.
Appointments, test, mis-information, uncertainties, delays, and more test.....led us to Karmanos Cancer Institute. Dad had been told that the tumor may be malignant, but no one was certain.  The original biopsy rendered an inconclusive diagnosis.
Fast-forward: Our appointment today with the medical oncologist will set the schedule of our lives for the next few weeks or even months as we get the treatment type and schedule.
Don't worry; I WILL go back and fill in the blanks.  But for now let's just establish that we KNOW our God to be a Healer. That our complete and total faith is in God and not Man. That Dad confesses his healing daily.  Journey with us, as we go "through" this challenge looking to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith!