Who Am I?

Who am I?........I am a child of the King.

I have been reminded of the above phrase more that once this week:

1. getting an appointment with Dr. Yung in 6 days instead of the normal 3 weeks

2. obtaining discounts on airfare and car rental, especially on such short notice

3. receiving a free hotel room for the trip

4. two monetary gifts given to us TODAY that will cover the cost of airfare and car rental for the trip to Houston

Aside from meals, our trip to Houston is totally paid for. It's great to see how God works through the hearts, hands, and pocketbooks of people. We are so truly blessed!

"And my God will meet all of your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus" Phillipians 4:19

Kate (with Dave typing)

Medical Records Hand Delivery

It has been so busy around here. MD Anderson is requesting that all my medical files not be faxed to them but, hand delivered. It has me calling every doctor - then waiting - then driving to pick up the files. I have a brain cancer binder that is quite large & getting bigger by the minute with all the research, pathology report and doctor info.

Pray that all records are organized and ready for MD Anderson. Continue to pray for the disc's of all my MRI & CT scans prior to the surgery. St. John's radiology department made multiple copies for me last week. I am thankful for that. It is VERY important that they aren't erased in any way prior to the Houston visit. Pray for a smooth airport security details.

We did get our airline tickets through Southwest yesterday (Wednesday). They tried to get us a "good" deal. We were still disappointed with the price. It is a disappointment to spend money on airline tickets this time of the year. Dave & I both know, that you cannot put a price tag on my health.

Gotta go! the boys are waking up to get ready for school and the upcoming snow - We hope!
I need to get out the boots, snow bibs, etc. for the day.

kate

Houston Here we Come!

It is now set . . . Our appointment is with Dr. Yung on the morning of December 5. I am delighted to have Dr. Yung. He is very hard to get in to see. He usually schedules at least 3 weeks out! Yippeee! They also said to plan on staying at least 3 days. We might have other specialist that Dr. Yung wants us to see while we are there.

Thanks for praying. It really feels as if a load has been lifted having a confirmed appointment with MD Anderson.

OK now pray for

1. Details of our flight
2. Safety for our children while we are away
3. Wisdom for Dave & I in what questions to ask while at Houston
4. Discernment for Dr. Yung & staff
5. Rental car discount : ) (i like a good deal!)
6. All medical records - CD's of my MRI & CT scans to go through airport security safely. The CD's are like gold. Without them our appointment is a loss. We would have to cancel the appointment. They are most interested in the what is on the disc.

Praise:
1. Our hotel is paid for!
2. Soccer Gram & Aunt Dee Dee holding down the fort
3. We can actually go this Saturday to cut down our tree as planned! It is always a fun family tradition. Carter & Cole love to help Dad cut it down. Such delight!
4. Dave is so supportive! He is going above & beyond the call of duty. He is my "research man" with all the cancer info.

Can't say thank you enough - Kate

Confusion & Pathology Slides

Ok . . . A little confusion with the slides. I guess that is normal with someone who just had their brain operated on. : )

Here is what has happened in the last 24 hours . . . . Barnes sent our slides back to St. John's Mercy Center by noon today. (My slides were considered St. John's property and Barnes wasn't allowed to ship our slides directly to Houston.) At 4pm today (Tuesday), St. John's Center had our slides sent by overnight UPS to MD Anderson, Houston. Once tracking number has been confirmed by Candie in the brain & spine business office she will then contact us (Wednesday) with the first available appointment with a neuro-oncologist. We desire to see Dr. Yung (chair) or Dr. Gilbert. Please pray for a quick opening especially with Dr. Yung. A big "thank you" to Candie at MD Anderson. She is really a big help during this time. She really knows what she is doing.

Once we have a scheduled appointment, we will fly to Houston. The appointment could range from 7 - 10 days out. We will be staying at a Marriot Hotel - many thanks to Pop Pop Snodgrass and his bonus points. Dave & I are looking forward to some quiet time together in Houston. We might even have time to take in some sights - just him & I. Carter & Cole are looking forward to a special gift from Houston. They even love the airplane snacks. (It's the simple things in life that are special.) Stuart will appreciate anything. He will be most happy to have mom back home to cuddle with. Oh, please still pray for his cold. He is sleeping well but, the cold still needs to run its course. My cold is gone. Yeah!

I need to get going . . . A good game of sock tag is happening upstairs. I will try to explain later what that is in our home. It is a Hoot! Lots of laughter and running. Of course, it is safe. We have "Safety Dave" in this house.

Kate

Kate's Hair - Phase II

Just wanted you to know that another decision needs to be made in regards to my hair. Not like I don't have enough to think about. Anyway . . . . . after careful reading it seems to confirm I will be losing my hair during the second week of radiation treatment. I will need to decide on cutting my hair to a shorter length so the weight of my hair shaft will not be as heavy. I am thinking this is a step in the right direction. I will try to get used to short hair for a time prior to having NO hair. My point is . . . . . I would rather my boys (including Dave) have me without hair than to not have me at all. I love them so!

Also pray for patience. I don't want to go ahead of myself until we hear from Houston on the advice given for my treatment.

Many details - - - kate

Waiting on Tracking Number

A phone call was made to MD Anderson this morning. My contact person, Candie, was still waiting for the tracking number for the slides. It seems that I forgot to tell her that the slides are actually at Barnes not at St. John's. Oopps! (I guess I can say my mind is not what it used to be. Ha ha ha!) I made a phone call to Barnes and spoke to the head supervisor, Melinda, & asked how to send my pathology slides QUICKLY to Houston. She stated the best way to go about it is to write a letter and fax it to her tomorrow morning (Tuesday). She was very kind and understood the urgency.

Please pray the faxed letter is read quickly and that the slides are sent by express mail this Tuesday by noon. The sooner Candie has a tracking number on the slides, the quicker we can start the process in seeing a neuro-oncologist specialist. We don't want to delay the treatment process here in St. Louis. Although we would like to hear another opinion on the situation prior to starting the treatment. Dr. Linette of Barnes wants us to start treatment in 1 1/2 weeks. As stated previously, the treatments will consist of 6 full weeks of oral chemo and radiation.

With the many phone calls made today, I was able to schedule a consultation with Dr. Simpson the radiologist oncologist at Barnes - Jewish Hospital / Washington University. It is set for early December. He is world renowned. People travel across the midwest to have him oversee their radiation treatment. It was a relief to know he is in our healthcare plan. A few days ago we were unsure if he was under our insurance plan. That would have been quite costly to say the least.

Many things are lining up with doctors. The phone has been used quite frequently - ringing often - I made 15 calls today alone. whoa!. The answering machine is really being put to work.

Thanks for taking this long journey with us. - - - - - - - kate

Not telling C & C

Dave & I have decided NOT to tell Carter & Cole the severity of the brain tumor. They know it is cancer & that cancer is very bad. That is all they need to know at this time. (As Cole would say "Cancer belongs in the trash can.") I agree with him on that one.

We are at peace. We know I am not a statistic. God is in control of all my days. I could die in a car accident before I die from cancer. All my days are numbered just like everyone else.

We are going to be in contact with MD Anderson, Houston, TX on Monday morning. We should know by the end of the week when we will be taking a flight down there. Pray for wisdom of the doctors. Pray also that all the details come into place - especially all the medical paperwork to be faxed to them quickly. Lots of phone calls to be made to various doctors, hospitals, etc.

As always, pressing on towards being refined - kate

Give it All Away

The following song expresses my heart desire in the last few days after listening to it in Dave's car. I am seeing that I thought MY plans are what was important in life. Believe Me - I had a lot of plans! Enjoy the song!

Give it All Away by Aaron Shust ( www.aaronshust.com)

Search my heart, search my mind, search my soul
Make me clean, make me new, make me whole

All of my plans, all of my dreams, I lay them down before Your feet
All of my time, all that was mine, I now submit to Your design
'Cause You are the one who can make my life complete
You are the one who can give light to my feet
You are the one and only one who dared to give it all away for me

You are my strength, You are my God, you are my King
You make me laugh, You make me dance, You make me sing

Everything inside, everything outside, I give it all away
You never change, but You rearrange my heart more everyday

God is truly rearranging my heart more everyday. Kate

Stuart & Mommy's cold

Please pray for Stuart and myself, we are struggling with a cold & cough. It keeps both of us up at night. My cough wakes me up early as well.

Stuart is also teething, which for those of you who know about teething . . . it increases the drainage behind the throat. He was up for some time last night coughing. It was good to go in and hold him in the rocking chair. We were able to elevate his crib with telephone books. I think it worked. He slept.

kate

Scrapbook Reminder

Just a reminder for you to read the "Scrapbook Pictures" posting from a few days ago. Be sure to click on Michelle Roloff's name to the right on this blog. We would love for you to be a part of the book with your picture. Please give her your personal email address so she can then respond with her address for you to mail the picture or if you have a digital camera just email the picture to her with names for the scrapbook.

kate

Garage Door Woes & God's Blessings

We had a nice Thanksgiving yesterday with family; the weather, company, food, and drinks were all great. We hope you did as well!

Some of you reading this blog might be wondering, "What is Dave thinking about all of this?" First, I love Kate and am completely committed to her, no matter where this trial leads. Second, I know that God loves my wife (and my children) even more than I do. Third, I know that God is providential and allows suffering for His greater purposes. Fourth, I know that He will not give us beyond what we can bear. Fifth, I know that God want us to trust Him throughout this trial and with the ultimate outcome. Sixth, I know that He doesn't want us to worry about tomorrow because today has enough trouble of its own. Seventh, I know that God will supply all of our needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Finally, I believe that God has numbered Kate's days (and mine) and He ultimately determines when she is to be called home (not the median statistic).

I was reading a devotional this morning and wanted to share it with you:

HIS PURPOSE

"We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28

Life is hard. We face pain every day. But, God can bring something good out of even the worst situation. However, it may not be the kind of good we're looking for. Our goal is happiness. His goal is to build a strong character and firm godly faith in us. Those things don't usually come from happiness but from the gold that's been refined in the furnace of pain. It may take a long time to see the good, but it will eventually come.

End

Finally, I wanted to share the story of our garage door woes. Last November we purchased a new garage door opener and had it installed by Lowe's. About 1 -2 months later the garage door buckled when it was closing. There was a little damage to the door but I was able to fix it. This same scenario happened 2-3 more times over the course of the past year. Unfortunately, now the garage door is very damaged and could accidentally fall off the tracks and damage our vehicles.

We contacted Lowe's and the garage door opener manufacturer. The garage door opener manufacturer sent out an inspector and he said that it was an installation problem. Lowe's sent out their installer and he said that it was installed properly and buckled due to lack of maintenance. So, both companies are denying any wrong doing in the matter (big surprise).

Regardless of who was at fault, the bottomline is that we need a new garage door!

After some negotiation with Lowe's this afternoon, they agreed to sell us a garage door at cost (installation extra). The cost is going to be around $600-650 just for the door.

Wondering how I was going to pay for this, today when I returned from Lowe' s and opened the mail there was a check from the State of Missouri for almost $650 and the check stub said that the money was from "abandoned assets". I was not aware of any abandoned assets. Sitting here puzzled and amazed I was reminded that God owns the cattle on a thousand hills (even the government's!) and sometimes he sells them and sends us the money.

Praise God for his many blessings!

Dave

If, When & How?

I am stuggling about if, when and how would be a good time to tell Carter & Cole the seriousness of this tumor. I know my God is not dead. NO! He is alive! (it reminds me of the doughnut man song - for those of you who have kids - it is a oldie but goodie song) I fear in my heart for their future. (I was struggling with that yesterday at Chick-Fil-A.) They don't need ANY mommy. They need ME. My heart does ache. I know this is a normal thought. I am not afraid to die. I am confirmed that I will see Jesus. I also realize that God loves my boys even more than I do. It just hurts to know what trials they will be experiencing later in life if my life does not continue on with them.

I am reminded that I am not a statistic. I am in God's hand. I am confirmed that this cancer is treatable unlike the "big kahuna" GBM tumor. Most (35%) people with brain tumors have the GBM. There is NO effective treatment for that one. You're dead before they say a time frame. Dr. Linette was very positive in light of the dark words. No false hope was given. Even though the cancer is not a great one to have it isn't the Worst! Temodar has had great results with the other small percentage of brain tumors like myself. Age is on my side. For once, it is good to be 33.

This evening - Time with the extended family was great! Everyone had a good time on the wagon ride. Even Stuart noticed the stars & gave me big hugs while watching Uncle Charlie drive the tractor. He kept on saying "TracTOR". He loved every moment of it. Carter & Cole are sleeping soundly in bed tonight. They are worn out completely.

Tomorrow we will celebrate offical Thanksgiving with my siblings & their children. It truly is my favorite holiday.

I look forward to flying to Houston. I am sure I will think of a good blog title for that trip. I am already thinking of one. God is already paving the way to have our pathology slides express mailed to MD Anderson by Friday.

Love always & remembering God's not dead and neither am I.

Pressing ON!

Kate

Today's Oncologist Visit / Dr. Linette

Kate and I went to Washington University Physicans (Barnes-Siteman Cancer Center) for a visit with Dr. Linette, an oncologist with a specialty in brain tumors. He had a great disposition and was much more knowledgable of brain tumors (thankfully!). He went through the latest pathology report with us, nothing has changed, Kate still has the anaplastic Oligoastrocytoma with unfavorable genetic markers. He explained that this cancer is not curable, only treatable to slow the growth of the cancer. The median life expectancy is 4 years with treatment, 1 year without. As you can imagine, this was difficult to hear.

Median life expectancy means that 50% of patients with this cancer live more than 4 years and 50% live less than 4 years.

He said that only 18,000 people develop primary brain tumors in the U.S. annually. From my own research, less than 3% of these are the type of cancer that Kate has.

Dr. Linette recommended a treatment strategy of radiation therapy and simultaneous chemotherapy (Temodar). Temodar can cross the blood-brain barrier and helps make the cancer cells more receptive to radiation. Radiation therapy will occur daily at Barnes for 6 weeks, Monday-Friday. Temodar will last 1 year with varying dose schedules. We need to start treatment within the next 2 weeks (no more than 1 month from the date of surgery).

We asked if we should consider visiting a more specialized cancer treatment center in the country, like MD Anderson in Houston. He said that would be a good idea, at least for peace of mind, and to see what they had to offer in the way of clinical trials. He gave us referrals to a couple of their neuro-oncologists. We have contacted MD Anderson and expect to visit them within the next couple of weeks.

While all of this is hard to process, we are looking forward to a nice evening of good food, hayrides and a bonfire with extended family.

Please pray for us, especially Kate with the emotions she is going through during this difficult time. She loves her boys!

In Christ,

Dave

Barnes Pathology & Construction Trucks

Early this morning, I received a call from our 1st oncologist with the verbal results of the "second opinion" pathology report from Barnes. They are still classifying the tumor as a grade 3 (mid-high grade) anaplastic oligoastrocytoma. Also, the tumor does not have the certain genetic mutation markers that we were hoping for, which means that it will be less receptive to chemotherapy (bummer!).

The good news is that we have an appointment tomorrow (Wednesday) with neuro-oncologist, Dr. Linette, who specializes in the treatment of brain tumors. He has set aside time just to see me tomorrow. I told the nurse, I am a patient that HE really wants. (I am not sure she believed me.)

After the phone call about the Barnes pathology report, Stuart and I went to see diggers and excavators working at a construction site near our home. It was good to get away and spend some time with him. Just like old times prior to the diagnosis. He loves his DIG R's.

I did cry after I heard about the gene mutation disappointment, but I realize tomorrow is a new day! (which I am thankful for) - Kate

Sitting in Darkness with Light

When I sit in darkness,

the Lord will be a light to me.

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When Kate walks through the fire she shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch her. For I am the Lord you God, the Holy One of Israel, Kate's Savior. I will bring the blind by a way they have not known. I will make darkness light before them, and crooked places straight. These things I will do for them, and not forsake them. Yea, though Kate walks through the valley of the shadow of death, She will fear no evil; for You are with her; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort Kate. Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You. In God (I will praise His word), in God Kate has put her trust; I will not fear. What can flesh do to me? The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

This devotional spoke to me this morning. From the "Daily Light". Here are the verses the paragraph is derived from - Micah 7:8, Isaiah 43:2-3, Isaiah 42:16, Psalm 23:4, Psalm 56:3-4 & Psalm 27:1.

PRAY: We have not seen the neuro-oncologist, Dr. G Linette as of this morning (Tuesday). We are hoping the doctors office will call today to get us in immediately. No reports on the Barnes pathology results. Continue to pray it is a stage 2. Also pray for wisdom for Dr. Linette if he takes over my care.

kate

Broken in the Sweet Potato Aisle

Today as I went to get my hair trimmed, my stylist was interested in the scar from the surgery. I was able to tell her my story and journey that we have taken in the last 2 weeks. She mentioned to me that she worked previously at a "wig place" where people come in to have their hair cut off totally. Due to circumstances like myself.

One client of hers that she remembers vividly was a woman with brain cancer. She had two young boys. This woman told the stylist that her husband left her once he found out about the cancer in her body. I was in such shock to hear of this story. Never had I contemplated that Dave would do such a thing. THANKFULLY!

After the haircut, I went to the grocery store to pick up some items. Clementines & sweet potatoes to name a few. While in the sweet potato aisle, I broke down thinking of Dave's commitment to me and this trial we are going through. I am so loved and confirmed that Dave is going & will continue to stick by me in the weeks and days ahead. I know the vows we made to each other 10+ years ago were not just something on a piece of paper. He is a man of his word. I love him so. He just recently, after a doctors appointment, took me aside and looked at me face to face to confirm his commitment to me. He said "I am with you through all this. I love you. We will get through this together."

Marriage is a wonderful commitment between friends who love the Lord. Dave is definitely my best friend. I wouldn't want anyone else to walk through this trial with. - Except him. He is committed to Jesus and me! Couldn't ask for anything more.

All my love to Dave - Kate

Scrapbook Pictures

Michelle Roloff, a friend of the family, would like to put together a scrapbook of our journey / blogging entries. If you have been praying for our family and/or sent a blog comment please see the side entry for Michelle's email address. Let her know you are interested in having your picture put in the scrapbook. This will be great to look over with our sons in the years to come. Please title your email: Kate's scrapbook

We would love to have a picture of you, your family, a group pic of classroom kids, the Bible Study group, church group, etc. in the scrapbook. If you want to share Scripture or homemade cards from kids, that would be great as well.

Thanks - Kate

1,796 hits on blog

FYI - there have been 1,796 hits on this blog since we started it less than 2 weeks ago. Isn't that amazing? More encouraging to me than anything else.

It has been a great weekend for our family! A long walk with all the boys, in the neighborhood on Saturday afternoon was very good medicine.

Please pray that we see neuro-oncologist, Dr. G. Linette this Monday! Also pray that the pathology report from Barnes comes in at the same time.

Little Stu turns two this Monday as well. Lots going on! Never a dull moment at our home.

We are looking forward to celebrating Thanksgiving on Thursday. We have much to be thankful for. I am glad that the weather will be a little warmer than usual. The bonfire & hayride will be great!

Continue to pray for everyone in our family to stay healthy. No Germs! That would send us and our caregivers in a tail spin.

A Mere Thanks (can only express our sincere gratitude) - kate

Oncologist Visit

Kate and I went to the oncologist/hematologist today to find out his recommended treatment strategy for her brain cancer. He explained the initial pathology report from St. John's a little further. The tumor was diagnosed as a grade 3 (on a scale of 1-4 with 4 being the worst) anaplastic oligoastrocytoma (mixed-glioma). Grade 3 is considered mid-level. Unfortunately, we are still waiting on the extended (second opinion) pathology report from Barnes. Apparently, their "world-renowned" neurological pathologist is in Germany this week attending an international conference on brain tumors (I guess that's a good thing). He'll be back on Monday, so hopefully we'll hear something early next week.

The oncologist said that if the initial path report holds up and the tumor is indeed a grade 3, he would recommend long-term chemotherapy (Temodar, an oral medication) and radiation therapy. He said that Temodar has relatively mild side effects, although radiation therapy will definitely cause complete hair loss and fatigue; and the possibility of nausea, vomitting, headaches, memory loss, and blindness in one eye (if they get too close to the optic nerve, which is extremely rare).

If it comes in lower than a grade 3, he would only recommend Temodar. Please pray that it would be.

Since our oncologist is a generalist and rarely treats any brain cancer patients (I asked him about this), we are seeking a specialist in that area, a neuro-oncologist, for their analysis and recommendation. Fortunately, we received a referral for one that works at Barnes and I think is the only one in the area. Please pray that we can get in to see him next week.

Kate's resting this evening and I'm getting ready to do the same! Its been another long week for our family.

Blessings to all of you who are supporting us.

Dave

Icy Waters!

I just received a sweet note in the mail from someone I have never met living in Iowa. She went through the fiery trial with breast cancer. She gave me a great illustration that I would love to share with you today. What an encouragement to me.

Icy Waters

It's as if you have been pushed into a icy cold stream being pulled along by the current & you just have to go along with it. Your friends, ie: bloggers & family (& strangers, too) are running along the bank, praying & encouraging you on but, we can't pull you out. God will do that in His time.

"Please know we are cheering for you along the creekside here in Iowa."

Hope this was a great illustration for you.

Much love,
kate

If You want me to!

This song by Ginny Owens fully expresses what I am feeling. Hope it touches your heart as it has mine.

IF YOU WANT ME TO

The pathway is broken
And the signs are unclear
I don't know the reason why You brought me here
But just because You love me the way that You do
I'm gonna walk through the valley
If You want me to

Chorus:
Cause I'm not who I was When I took my first step
And I'm clinging to the promise
You're not through with me yet
so if all of these trials bring me closer to you
Then I will go through the fire
If You want me to

It may not be the way I would have chosen
When you lead me through a world that's not my home
But You never said it would be easy
You only said I'd never go alone

So When the whole world turns against me
And I'm all by myself
And I can't hear You answer my cries for help
I'll remember the suffering Your love put You through
And I will go through the valley
If You want me to

Cause I'm not who I was
When I took my first step
And I'm clinging to the promise You're not through with me yet
so if all of these trials bring me closer to you
Then I will go through the fire
If You want me to

When I cross over Jordan,
I'm gonna sing, gonna shout
I'm gonna look into Your eyes and see
You never let me down
So take me on the pathway that will lead me home to You
And I will walk through the valley
If You want me to

Yes, I will walk through the valley
If You want me to

Kate

Staples are OUT!

The staples have been removed. It was not as painful as I had made it out to be. Thank you for praying for courage. The only uncomfortable part was the doctor pulling some hair with the staples. I am thankful that I actually have HAIR to pull. Dave was right at my side holding my hand during the procedure. I think he turned his head - That's OK. He has been through enough lately. He is such a wonderful spouse. I couldn't have asked for a better one!

I was able to visit the older boys at school today after the doctors visit. I wanted to share with them that God has answered their prayers in giving me courage. They wanted to see that the staples are OUT! I think it was a relief to them and to me as well knowing they are gone.

As for the detailed pathology report from Barnes Hospital . . . . . No News. That is totally fine for us. We need some rest time. We desire no more news to process at this time.

I am able to drive during the day starting this weekend. I am taking anti convulsion meds, tylenol & no steroids.

My cheif complaint is that my left wrist hurts. It wakes me up at night. It is due to the "ART" cath they put in at the hospital. I am thankful that it is my wrist that wakes me up not my head. My humorous comment on the art cath is "I know why they now call it a art cath. It sure is a piece of "art"work due to the bruising."

thanks again for praying - today was a good day! - kate

Rest was good

A good nights rest was just what I needed. I actually woke up a little perkier than when I went down. Thanks to all for praying for my mind and emotions and the attack I was under all day yesterday.

A little song for you to sing even in the dreary cold rain. thank you Amelia for your sweet note. Yes it is true !- I have been "smacked" upside the head! Ha ha ha!

Great is Thy Faithfulness O Lord

I think it goes something like this: (if you know the correct version please blog it)

They(the Lords compassion/ faithfulness) are new every morning
new every morning
great is thy faithfulness O Lord
great is thy faithfulness

If you are just now getting on the blog - please be sure to read the post "Maintaining privacy on the blog" for your security and ours.

kate

Frustrated

Today was a hard day emotionally for me. I am frustrated to the MAX! We haven't even seen the doctors yet. This "rollercoaster" is almost too much for me to handle. I want so much to get OFF!

After reading the many comments coming in from everyone, I am not worthy of the title "A Woman of Faith." I am real and these emotions are real. I am well aware that I will have good & bad days ahead in the many months to come. Please pray for my mind. I am like a tiger that doesn't want to be tamed!

MY FRUSTRATIONS:

1. My lower right back hurts.

2. I miss my autonomy (thank you to Soccer Gram & Aunt Dee Dee for doing your very best to accomodate me & others in the home).

3. It is hard to see everyone around you go about their daily business. Even though I haven't been "out" of the home to see them with their "daily" business yet. Wish I could, though.

PRAISE:

1. My "shiner" on my right eye ended up not looking as bad as I thought. Yeah!
2. Dr. Forget did a great job of hardly shaving my hair during surgery. I actually will look a little normal.
3. Dave is a GREAT husband to me during this time. So glad I have him to help with this load.
4. Our kids are really trying to adjust to the different home schedule.
5. That uplifting songs are still in my mind, during this dark time.
6. Friends around the world praying for me.
7. I can still laugh! It is almost the only thing I can do at this time. You almost have to find some humor in this all. I am tired.


thank you for understanding - kate

Maintaining privacy on the blog

We are concerned for your privacy (and ours). This blog has become such a worldwide phenomenon that we don't want any information falling into the wrong hands. Therefore, we are going to delete sensitive information from blog postings and comments such as phone numbers, addresses, etc. Due to this, some comments may need to be deleted altogether.

Rest assured, the blog will still be here, just a little more sanitized for everyone's protection.

Also, when you post future comments make sure you do not include your phone number or address.

Thanks,

Dave

Read the blog comments!

After speaking with some sweet ladies yesterday, I want to encourage you to take the time to read the precious comments posted by my friends in MANY places. I understand that you might think they are written just for our family & don't want to intrude. Many comments have been a true source of encouragement to me & hopefully to you as well.

A helpful hint with this blog. When the screen pops up just click on the "post title" to the right. Be sure to read the last Posting First. It goes backwards. The comments will follow our updated post. Hope this helps. I am very new to the "blogging" as well.

Kate

P.S. Dave says that if you want to read the entire blog from the beginning, click on November 2006 under the Archives section on the right hand side of the home page and read from the bottom up.

Snail Mail for our oldest boys!

For those of you who would like a tangible way to love . . . Please send by snail mail a postcard or card to our oldest boys individually. They love to read mail. At times we are unable to read all the comments on the blog to them. Remember, they go to bed by 7:30 pm. We stick to schedules here at this house.

Please pray for safety at our home. I am going to be in contact with the county police to ask if they can do some extra patrolling in our neighborhood.

PS - 9 hours of sleep was great last night! I went to bed by 9 pm. THANKS! Yes, I am a morning person unlike my spouse. As they say - opposites attract.

Kate

Suffering Blog Withdrawal

It's been a couple of days since I last posted to the blog. Knowing that I need to feed my addiction (again, a healthy one) here I am tonight in front of the computer. You probably thought to yourself, "What happened to Dave, why isn't he posting 3-4 times a day like I'm used to?" As you know, I went back to work this week, I thought it would be good to catch up on my work, especially before Kate's cancer treatment begins. Also, I had a new employee start and wanted to get him trained before the roller coaster resumes.

Overall, it has been very easy to manage, thanks for praying about that for me. I thought I was going to feel overwhelmed, like the feeling I get after I've been on vacation in Florida for a week. The first day back I usually feel like I'm going to have a heart attack by the end of the day. Fortunately, it was not like that at all. I guess my body was under so much stress last week that it didn't seem like a vacation to my body.

I've started doing research over the Internet to learn more about Kate's condition. One notable site, specifically for patients with brain tumors, is the American Brain Tumor Association (www.abta.org). There is a lot of useful information on this site to help us understand this better. I'm still early on in my research but I'm so glad there are resources like this available.

As you know, the pathology report on Kate's brain tumor shows that she has two types of cancer cells, astrocytoma and oligodendroglioma, also known as a mixed-glioma or oligoastrocytoma. We are waiting on an extended pathology report later this week to determine if it has gene mutation, which will give the doctors further information to recommend an appropriate treatment strategy. Since Kate is relatively young and has young children, they are most likely going to be aggressive with their recommendation. I am hoping they will be recommending a newer chemotherapy drug called Temador, which supposedly has much less side effects than standard chemotherapy treatments. Please be praying for this and that if she goes on it, that it will be completely effective.

In one of my previous posts I said that the surgery was "successful" and that the follow-up MRI showed the tumor was completely removed. Allow me to clarify this. The doctor was only able to remove all of what he could see. That is why the operation was called a craniotomy stealth-guided tumor reduction surgery. Remember my Playdough example from a couple of days ago? If not, please read it again.

I loved the post from Jamie B. yesterday that said "Brain Cancer Sucks". I couldn't agree more! I looked up the story of Hezekiah (found in 2 Kings 20) and found it to be very comforting and inspiring. Here's the short version: King Hezekiah was sick and near death. God told Hezekiah (through the prophet Isaiah) that he was going to die soon and to get his affairs in order. Hezekiah cried out to the Lord in prayer. God responded, "I have heard your prayer, I have seen your tears; surely I will heal you...I will add to your days fifteen years." The study notes in my Bible for this passage says that, "Not only does this passage underscore the importance of prayer, but also divine freedom, compassion, and omnipotence." What an amazing story of God's grace and mercy! It's real encouraging, especially when I don't feel like praying at times. However, with everything that has happened over the past week in terms of answered prayer, I should know better!

Dave

What was your "High" today?

Hello Friends-

Tonight at dinner was great! Almost like old times w/o me making the dinner. (Big Praise there!) At our home we have a tradition of going around the table and each sharing what our "High" of the day was and then what our "Low" was. It is great to hear the responses from our younger ones. You really are able to grasp what is important in their world. It also opens up the lines of communication. Aunt Dee Dee & Grams have been able to see the dinner hour unfold. I hope it has been a blessing to them as well.

Carter - "high" last night (Monday) was that he got to play football at afternoon recess.
His "low" - he said "I didn't have one". Yeah! That was a relief to mommy's heart.

Cole's "high" on Monday eve was that there is a mole problem at school and that he along with the other boys made up "traps" to get the moles. Something with sticks to stop him in his tracks - I presume. (Don't you just love boys?) Watch out mole at CCS. middle Our middle child is on the loose.
He also did not have a "low" last night. A delightful surprise to me.

Tonight (Tuesday)

High

Carter - football again, Cole: playing football with the older boys at recess
Stuart: He "sang" the whole time during the family dialogue. He was happy to see us all together.

Low

Carter: Did not finish his math paper in the time allotted.
Cole: The mole is still there.
Stuart: I would assume it would be he does not like mommy going to another part of the house. (ie: he is used to seeing me lying in bed in the Master Bedroom & checks on me often) If I am not there, he cries loudly"MOMEEEEE". Not knowing if & when I will return. (I am usually in the bathroom, little "S".)
Daddy: His low every evening is "Getting out of bed in the morning." Yes, the Indiana family knows that he is NOT a morning person.

OK - For all those praying & needing some details . . . .

1. Doctors appointments in the next few days. We should find out the extended pathology report at that time & also know what treatment to go forward with. Pray that we have wisdom in what questions to ask and to decipher ALL the info being brought to us. I only wish we could carry a Google search engine with us to the appointments. Praise that we, are having another set of ears at each office visit

2. If & when to seek a second opinion in regards to a cancer doctor. Hematologist, Dr. Leonard White, will be overseeing my care from this point on since he is the specialist.

3. We will let you know of any needs as they arise.

4. I am feeling quite well. I think I am in a fog. But a peaceful one. PRAISE: No intense headaches like before.

Much love, your friend,
Kate

Carving Pumpkins 2007

As I should be "resting", I am trying to think of ways to remember this time in our family life 1 year from now. Every year as we carve pumpkins, it is always a fun, competitive time to decide what design to choose. Mine will be the best so far. . . . . Starting over the left eye, crossing over to the right eye will be a series of 25 staples from a staple gun. Yes, a staple gun. I can just see it now! I am going to win the competition.

In response to the comment my friend, Laura J. wrote about the animal chanting of sorts . . . . I laughed outloud. Laughter IS good medicine!

A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.

Proverbs 17:22

Thanks for praying alongside us and have you enjoyed the rain today? I would be outside if I could playing in it with the older boys. - Kate at 2:06 pm Tuesday

More details will be posted later. I am concerned about safety on the homefront with too many details on the internet.

"How Beautiful" comment from Kate

Just want to tell ya'll that the comment from Jamie B. under the new digs posting "How Beautiful" was a song sung at our wedding 10+ years ago. It has special meaning to us. What a great & beautiful song. Just so tender.

I am reminded as we go through this trial, how music plays a vital role in my life. It is great for my soul. Some years ago, I was able to lead a time of music time for the Pre K & Kindergarten class at church. Those songs - even now- come to mind! I am amazed at how much words put to music touch me! I am very thankful! Even the fun ones! Mustang Sally was not one of them! Ha Ha Ha!

Even songs from my high school years at Bible Camp have come to mind. It is so amazing how God has made our brains! No denying it!

Need to go to bed - Kate

Sleep Needed

OK, you know what to do with this info . . . .

1. Under our roof - a great nights (Monday eve) rest is needed.

2. Upcoming doctors visits - Wisdom with what questions to ask,
PRAISE: Someone is staying at our home to take care of our youngest while he naps

3. I am feeling pretty good for just having surgery on my brain - Just still a little apprehensive about the 25 staples that are going to be taken out. Yes, 25! I am not one who likes to have my eyebrows plucked. I am like "a cat on a hot tin roof" when the plucking begins. Others have told me how it is not a Big Deal. Thank you to Big G, Gracie, Laura J., & other doctor friends. I just need some courage.

Thanks for YOU!
Kate

Preparing to Get Back to Work

Kate has been in bed resting for most of the day but was up this evening to eat dinner with the family and hang around the kitchen a little bit. That's positive!

She is not as sensitive to sound and light as she was before which is good with three boys in the house. However, to keep things quiet on the second level of the house (bedrooms) for Kate, Aunt Dee Dee made a new chart for the boys, actually a diagram of our house, to show them the loudness "zones" in the house. The basement is the "roudy" zone, main level is "moderate noise" zone, and the second floor is the "quiet" zone. Under Aunt Dee Dee's new system, this is a team effort (we're into accountability here) where the "team" will get a star in the G (Good) or B (Bad) column at the end of the day based on their performance. One warning is allowed to be given (and I'm sure will be given every day).

The system is working pretty well, at least this first day, because I went to the basement and found the boys engaged in a serious wrestling match. (Though younger, our middle child can definitely hold his own with our oldest, when needed)

We've decided it would be best for me to head back to work tomorrow since Soccer Gram will be able to watch our youngest all day while Kate is resting and the older boys are at school. Please pray for me about this. I could be a tad overwhelmed on my first day back since I am the only one at my company that does what I do, however, I do have a new employee starting tomorrow that will be much needed relief, especially with what lies ahead with Kate's cancer treatment plan. God's timing and provision are always perfect!

For His Glory,

Dave

P.S. If God allows Kate to make a full recovery and we can get all of this behind us we will be forming a chapter of Blogaholics Anonymous for any of you who are interested, or willing to admit it :-)

The "Talk"

Kate and I sat down with our oldest boys this afternoon to talk about mommy's brain tumor surgery (further) and about her diagnosis of cancer and future treatments. We used a practical illustration so they could understand it better, perhaps you will as well. (Part of this was adopted from an illustration given by Dr. Forget)

I had my supplies ready; red and blue colored Playdough, blue food coloring, rubber gloves, and a Bible. The blue Playdough was mommy's brain, the red Playdough was the cancerous tumor. I mixed a little bit of red Playdough into the blue Playdough really good. I explained that last week the doctor told mommy that she had a tumor and it needed to be removed, and earlier this week mommy went to the hospital to have the tumor (red Playdough) cut out. I tried to cut the red Playdough out the best I could, I got most of it, however I could not get it all because it was mixed in so well with the blue Playdough.

I told the boys that a very small amount still remained and mommy would need to have special medicine very soon to get rid of the rest of it. I poured the blue food coloring (special medicine) on the remaining red Playdough in mommy's brain to illustrate the medicine at work until all of the red Playdough disappeared and all that was left was blue.

After this we went through some Bible verses to let them know that:

1. Nothing will ever happen to mommy that God does not already know about (Ps. 139:4,16)

2. Nothing will ever happen to mommy that is a mistake (Ps. 139:4, 16)

3. Nothing will ever happen to mommy that mommy cannot handle by God's power and grace (2 Cor. 12:9-10)

4. Nothing will ever happen to mommy that will not eventually be used by God for some good purpose in mommy's life (Rom 8:28-29)

5. Nothing will ever happen to mommy apart from God's presence (Matt 28:20)

Finally, we let them know that it was OK to cry and be sad for mommy, if they wanted to, and that sometimes mommy and daddy are sad as well.

The boys seemed to receive this very well and did not have any questions. I'm sure they will later!

Thanks for praying for us for exactly what to say. I think it went over just fine.

Dave

P.S. Thanks to Marilyn M. for these Bible verses and the truths contained in them.

A Morning of Worship and Rest

Kate rested this morning and Soccer Gram watched our toddler while the older boys and I went to church. The love and concern of others, and hugs and words of encouragement are good for the soul. It's always good to be in worship service where we can sing praises to God, hear from His word, pray, consider His majesty, and take our minds off our struggles for a while.

I was somewhat "misty" as we sang the song called, "Forever". It really ministered to my heart. Here are the lyrics if you are not familiar:

Forever

Give thanks to the Lord our God and King. His love endures forever
For He is good, He is above all things. His love endures forever
Sing praise, sing praise

With a mighty hand and outstretched arm. His love endures forever
For the life that’s been reborn. His love endures forever
Sing praise, sing praise
Sing praise, (hallelujia) sing praise (hallelujia)

Forever God is faithful, Forever God is strong
Forever God is with us, Forever, Forever

From the rising to the setting sun, His love endures forever
By the grace of God we will carry on His love endures forever
Sing praise, sing praise
Sing praise, (hallelujia) sing praise (hallelujia)

Forever God is faithful, Forever God is strong
Forever God is with us, Forever and ever and ever
Forever God is faithful, Forever God is strong
Forever God is with us, Forever and ever and ever
Sing praise, sing praise
Sing praise (hallelujia) sing praise (hallelujia)

Forever God is faithful, Forever God is strong
Forever God is with us, Forever, Forever

End

Please continue to pray as we prepare to share the news with our kids this afternoon. I'll share about what happened in our next post.

Blessings,

Dave

At Home Resting

Yes, I am at home resting - a great place to be. All went well with the younger boys. They were at ease to see "mommy all in tact" (literally in tact). The staples across my head look "scary" to my oldest child but I was able to reassure him that I thought they looked scary too, but they are acting like a zipper for my skin incision. He understood.

It is so nice to be in the comforts of home with the great smells - hand soaps, lotion, baby bubble bath, fresh bed linens, cake baking in the oven, etc. I went into the hospital as one person yet came out as a different person. (to some of you that will be a very good thing) Yes, I am moldable!

Pray that God will soften my heart and tongue / thoughts. I don't always have the best filter - well I guess I do - it is Dave. We are a team!

Some of you are wondering, what to do from here? I ask you to allow Dave and I to be "a team" together. Allow us to be a family. Please pray for us to make the "right" decisions for my "C" (cancer) health and allow us to make these decisions. We ultimately know the "One" who made us so delicately also made the minds of our medical team. We trust them and ultimately trust God to give us wisdom and discernment for treatment options.

Our family landscape has just changed completely. We are the same shrubs (if you will) just positioned in a different place.

I have never had a blog before. It is a wild ride to allow others to read your personal "diary". Never have I been so transparent. I have been personal but not transparent, at least not in this way. Never have I had a lock broken on a diary for the world to read.

Since you have joined us in this adventure and are walking with us, here are some tangible prayer requests that are on my heart:

1. That Dave would be able to multi-task and have the strength, stamina, and patience to do it; taking care of me and the boys, administering my medications, doing laundry, washing dishes, etc; all while holding down his regular work. Also, that Dave would be able to have his own personal time to be able to reflect on everything that is going on and express the normal range of emotions that a spouse would feel in these circumstances.

2. That my mother (soccer gram) and sister (aunt dee dee) would stay healthy and well-rested while they assist our family with daily household needs.

3. That I (and Dave) would be able to get plenty of rest tonight and in the days ahead, especially before treatment begins.

4. That there would continue to be good communication between Dave and I, and that our marriage would be strengthened even further because of this trial.

5. That we would each take time to mediate on God's word and consider all that He is doing through this trial.

6. For our children to be able to process what we tell them about my condition on Sunday (tomorrow).

7. That God would calm my fears regarding having the staples removed from my head this coming Thursday.

We covet your prayers and deeply appreciate your encouragement and support of our family.

Kate

P.S. Dave says that typing on our home computer is much easier and faster than on the BlackBerry. His thumbs were getting really sore from that tiny keypad, I was afraid he was going to develop Thumb Tunnel Syndrome!

Winding Down Our Stay at SJMMS

We have had an interesting week here at St. John's Mercy Medical Spa (SJMMS). The personal attention and pampering have been fabulous! If you are looking for your next vacation spot, this is the place (without the brain tumor, of course).

Where else can you be in your PJ's all week and have personal assistants (nurse techs) help out with showers (only with Kate). Or what about the nightly tuck-in service, right before bedtime (with complimentary sleeping pills). Or what about the delicious, nutricious, gourmet meals delivered right to your bedside (now that's room service).

Or what about the posh room accomodations and ammenities; wood floors, neutral decor, parking garage view, beautiful fresh flowers, delicious gift baskets, high-back recliner chair, wireless internet access, two single reclining beds (this is a family environment - no funny business allowed), fresh towel service, mach 10 turbo toilet (no plunger needed here), free covered parking, and much, much more! We will really miss this place.

All kidding aside, this has been a special week for Kate and I; it has strengthened our marriage, renewed our lifelong commitment to each other, deepened our faith and trust in the Lord, strengthened relationships with family and friends, taught us to trust others with our children and daily needs, enabled us to have more compassion with others who are suffering, showed us that others are helping to bear our burdens, demonstrated to us the power of prayer, and given us a clearer focus on our future hope, God's ultimate redemption of ourselves and this world for His Son's glory.

Thank you for sharing this journey with us, now and in the days ahead.

For God's Glory,

Dave and Kate

Why Me?

Yes, this morning I am weary! I have never been so worn out. Now I know the true meaning of weary. Whoa! Going home today brings mixed emotions / blessings to me. I look forward to lovin' on all my boys, including big daddy.

I've been asking the question, "Why me?". As you can read through the comments on this blog, I am the middle of 5 kids and a quite independent one. Never before had I contemplated "being still", that is not my temperment or personality.

As I reflect on the events of the past week, there are many things I am thankful for:

1. God, my Heavenly Father, who is taking care of all of the details.

2. My husband Dave, who has stayed by my side through the thick and thin of over 10 years of marriage, through the joys and sorrows, highs and lows, and my idiosyncracies (and you know I have a lot of them).

3. My family and friends, and their support to Dave & I during this trial.

4. Dear visitors who have been at a loss for words in the hospital (which is OK because I am having trouble processing my thoughts when people talk too fast).

5. The team of doctors caring for me - Dr. Forget, Dr. Sanders, Dr. White, and others.

6. The team of nurses that have cared for me - ICU nurses Amy & Laura, 3rd floor neuroscience nurses and staff Sue, Joanie, Phyllis, Marcie, Justin, Bob, Kelly, Victoria, and others.

7. My oldest child sitting in the hospital bed with me yesterday reading Scripture.

8. My middle child looking at me with his tender, concerned eyes and head drooped down (saying to my mind he needs a hug).

9. Emily & Grant crying with us and getting my "big boy" Dave his food.

10. Support from Wade & Ramona, including counseling support, and also for getting food for Dave.

11. Precious comments on the blog (we read each one) - please be sure to use your full name and city, state where you are from - my memory is good but not that good!

12. That I am weary but still have joy in my heart.

13. My dad coming in for a visit in the early hours of the morning with a newspaper - by the way, my dad has always been great about visiting people in the hospital with a newspaper - way to go dad!

14. That I was already working with a hemotologist (Dr. White) prior to the brain surgery - this has only been in the past month and it truly shows me that God was paving the way.

15. Ramona for bringing me cute "Hollywood" headbands - watch out CCS carpool moms, Kate is back on the minivan runway.

16. That I don't have to write a Christmas newsletter (yeah!) - that really takes a huge burden off.

17. THAT I DON'T HAVE TO TAKE ANY MORE SHOTS OF BLOOD THINNERS IN MY STOMACH - THEY REALLY STUNG! (Never before in my life had I wished that I had extra layers down there)

Much Love,

Kate

It's Not the Big Kahuna

Our two oldest boys came up for a visit this afternoon. Singing to the tune "Mustang Sally" we have "Wheelchair Mama" pretending we have Luke (Kate's cousin) singing. Kate took each of the boys on a wheelchair ride in her lap with me pushing them along. They really enjoyed their special time with mom. But what they enjoyed even more was the huge basket of goodies in the room. Overall, it was a good visit.

Now, for the difficult news, actually it's good news, bad news. Dr. Forget was in for a visit this evening with the pathology report. Unfortunately, the tumor is cancerous, however, in Kate's words fortunately it's not the "big kahuna".

The pathology report shows the tumor is considered a mixed-glioma (low to mid grade), a combination of astrocytoma (astro) and oligodendroglioma (oligo) cancer cells, mostly oligo cells.

Also, the tumor is a primary brain tumor, meaning that it originated solely in the brain. Apparently, some tumors (secondary tumors) orginate elsewhere in the body (lungs, etc) and also in the brain. We are grateful it was primary.

Due to the presence of oligo cells, the tumor is being sent to Barnes Hospital for further tests to determine if it has gene mutation. If it does, there is a specific course of chemotherapy treatment, called Temodar, which is oral medication taken daily for 3-6 months. It is well tolerated by the body compared to other forms of chemotherapy.

We will know the results of the test by the end of next week. But regardless of the results, Kate will need, at a minimum, chemotherapy or radiation therapy, or a combination of the two to kill the remaining cancer cells.

We are very fortunate the tumor was not a glioblastoma, a high grade tumor that does not normally respond to standard treatments and the patient is told they have less than 2 years to live. Kate refers to this as the Big Kahuna.

We are still processing the news but are grateful the cancer should be treatable. Praise God.

We have a long road ahead of us but we know God will carry us every step of the way in His everlasting arms.

Please pray for us. We appreciate all of your support during this very difficult time.

Dave and Kate

P.S. Kate will be going home tomorrow from the hospital. We are waiting until then to talk with our children. We ask for wisdom to communicate this information.

Doctor Visits

We had three doctor visits this morning, all in rapid fire succession.

Dr. Sanders, our primary care physician, dropped by for a friendly hello and to see how Kate was doing.

Dr. White, Kate's hematologist, also dropped by to say hello and to let her know she would need to see him for a follow-up in a week or so.

Finally, Dr. Forget made his visit to check up on Kate and let her know that she can go off of the blood thinner medication. Kate was especially glad to hear this because she has been having this given to her in shots in the stomach (ouch!) a couple times a day. Her stomach has the bruises to prove it.

When asked if she was ready to go home today, Kate replied, "I don't think so, I'll hide under the covers". (I think Dr. Forget was testing the waters)

Also, Dr. Forget says that Kate will have her staples (zipper) removed in about a week.

No news on the pathology report yet.

Waiting Patiently and Peacefully,

Dave (and Kate)

Morning Musings

We are having trouble with the air conditioning unit here in our room - all visitors say it is warm in here. As I was lying in bed last night perspiring (remember ladies don't sweat) I was thinking about calling maintenance (no wonder I had a temp the previous night with that lovely turban wrap). Thankfully we have a personal fan from home to circulate the air. The nurses say, "That is a hot commodity around here.". My heart really goes out to the other patients who are warm as well.

But hey, I thought it was like a spa here. Maybe they are trying out the sauna setting on the dial. I laugh when I think of a Seinfeld episode with Kramer in a white towel in a sauna. I guess I am Kramer with staples across my head.

Praise God - Dave and I got a better night's sleep. The nurses only took vitals every 6-8 hours (yeah!). I guess I am "stable".

I am encouraged about the incision across my hairline. Dr. Forget did great! By the way, the OR room was awesome to see in action! I am so glad I was not "loopy" with the "happy juice". Very Cool!

I am not chomping at the bit to get the pathology results. I am at peace knowing that this is a tumor and if God brought us this far He will carry us farther in this potentially long journey. I know this is not me saying this but only by God's sovereign right hand holding me, precious Kate Snodgrass.

If you want a tangible way to serve...Dave loves his coffee in the morning and he is hungry at breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

If you come to visit, there is a "Welcome" basket for hospital staff and visitors. Help yourself to the yummy treats! Many thanks to my "southern" friends at Covenant Christian School (CCS) and the Noltings for putting it together.

Thank you for commenting on the blog. Dave and I have been able to cry, laugh, and reminisce together - it has been very special to see who is reading and lifting us up in prayer (even during the night). I'm lovin' this BlackBerry - thank you to Dave's work.

Kate (with Dave typing)

Thank you to CCS students

Hey kids, I miss not being able to drop in and give you hugs and pats on the head, especially John John.

I love the book of prayers and promises you made for me. Your artwork and Scripture verses were a beautiful gift. I've been looking at them every day.

I know I will see you soon at school and give each one of you a hug. Don't worry, I'm already thinking about Field Day here in the hospital.

You're so precious to me, thank you for loving on the Snodgrass boys and praying for our family.

I Love You All,

Mrs. Snodgrass

The Clementine Caper

Thank you to the special person (our mystery guest) that just delivered a box of Clementines to the third floor nurses station. Kate has already eaten two of them.

The smell of Clementines has overtaken the smell of nail polish from Kate's pedicure. I want to thank you personally for that!

God Bless You,

Dave (and Kate)

Patience is a virtue

Kate had an eventful afternoon today, I took her on a wheelchair ride to the outside courtyard area. She enjoyed the nice, warm refreshing weather. Then, she walked back to her room holding onto the wheelchair.

Then she went down for a follow-up MRI. She was worried about the staples holding together her wound, that they might be magnetic and interfere with the MRI (which uses high-powered magnets). I told her that I was pretty sure they were not (and indeed they weren't).

Dr. Forget just came in for a visit to let us know that he still did not have the pathology report but that it would definitely be ready by tomorrow. Also, he said the MRI showed that all of the tumor had been completely removed. Praise God for this!

Finally, Kate has been complaining of hearing snap, crackle, and popping noises constantly in her right ear. Dr. Forget said it was completely normal and it is due to fluid and air pockets from the wound site.

Kate is getting ready for dinner although she has not had much of an appetite (she doesn't like the hospital food very much). Dr. Forget said she could eat whatever she wanted (he suggested steak or pizza). A nice steak dinner does sound delicious, though I doubt Kate would enjoy it. Actually, the only food she is craving are Clementines (this is an orange colored fruit similar to a tangerine). Please pray that her appetite would improve.

After dinner, Kate is going to enjoy a nice pedicure and foot spa treatment (thanks Laura). Hopefully, this will calm her so she can have a good night's sleep (me too).

Blessings,

Dave (and Kate)

Sharing the Load

I'm sitting outside of St. John's enjoying this beautiful day that God has ordained (I think just for me). I'm taking a short break from Kate to gather my thoughts and have a nice cup of coffee.

The Lord has been using the encouraging comments, emails, and Scripture verses you all have sent to encourage and comfort me. They are very precious.

This morning has been a difficult one for me. I hate to see my wife going through this and only wish that it were me.

God has reminded me not to fear and to completely lean on Him for my strength and the outcome, whatever it may be. His ways and purposes are higher than mine and promises never to leave me or forsake me.

I am sad; not fearful, not angry, just sad for wife who is my soul mate, my best friend, my partner, my lover, my better half.

As I am sitting here in tears, my God has whispered in my ear that He understands my pain because it was hard for him to see His own Son suffer, but it happened for a greater purpose, for the ones He loves.

Please pray that God would continue to sustain me (and Kate).

Dave

Dr. Forget's Visit

Dr. Forget was in about an hour ago. Still no word on the pathology report. He removed the turban (dressing) from her head and said the wound (stiches) are healing just fine. She does not have to wear the turban any longer.

Kate is also developing a black eye (shiner) from the surgery. She says that Mike Tyson has nothing on her.

Finally, Kate just had a shower and feels a little more refreshed. She will be having another MRI today to check up on things, hopefully all is well.

Resting in God's hands,

Dave

Fever Update

Kate likes to refer to this place as St. John's Mercy Medical Spa because of the turban (wrap) she wears on her head and the massages (back rubs) I've been giving her. She is dying to get the turban off her head because it is on very tight and presses against the incision site, causing pain.

Praise God that Kate's fever is back to normal. Our primary care physician, Dr. Sanders, was just in for a visit and said that it is normal to have a slight fever after surgery (called post-op fever) and it is caused by inflammation and healing of the wound site, not an infection (relief to us).

Your prayers and support are precious to us.

Dave and Kate

I miss my boys

I miss my oldest son's contagious joy and laughter. I miss our middle sons good morning hugs. I miss watching how little toddler runs around the house and his cheesy grins and hearing the songs he sings, like "row, row, row your boat".

As I am thinking these thoughts the nurse just checked my blood sugar (ouch!) and it has dropped down low enough (110) so that I don't need an insulin shot (halleluia). However, my temperature is up slightly to 100.1 deg F.

I feel weary right now with everything going on, like a whirlwind for me. I desire to get off this roller coaster and go on vacation, like the Southwest airlines commercials, "Wanna get away?". The answer is a resounding "Yes".

The Lord just keeps bringing to mind 9/11 and the twin towers in New York City. This tumor is like a 747 that flew into the building. However, I am not going to crumble or fall because the Lord is my cornerstone, my sure foundation, my strong tower. He is the steel post holding up my body. Though I am weary, I am confident in that.

I covet your prayers as we await a morning visit from Dr. Forget.

Kate

How this journey began

Many people have asked, including the nurses caring for me, how did we know something was wrong. So here the story goes.

On Thursday, Oct 19th I was having episodes of intense headaches lasting 10-15 min in duration, around 5 times per day. Several days later I visited my chiropractor in the hopes that it was due my neck being out of alignment, however within a couple days the headaches returned though not as intense.

I decided to see my primary care physician, Dr. Sanders, about my condition and he said I should have a CT Scan "just in case".

On Wed, Nov 2nd I went in for the CT Scan. The next day I got a call from Dr. Sanders and he had scheduled an immediate appointment with a neurosurgeon, Dr. Forget (say it in french, not english forget).

Dr. Forget showed us the CT Scan "films" that showed some swelling in the right frontal lobe of my brain, caused by either a tumor or an infection. He said that it would have to be removed and described the procedure to us.

On Friday I went in for an MRI and it confirmed that it was a tumor of 4 cm in diameter. Dr. Forget said it was a good idea to have it removed sooner than later. He scheduled the surgery for the following Tuesday (2 days ago).

That's how it all began.

Kate

Kate's Hot

Kate is up and moving around this evening and very perky (given the circumstances). She is helping me write this post and told me what to put for the title.

A quick update on the last post, I can't provide all the details over the blog but God answered that prayer while I went home for a shower and to see the boys (Kate told me to) and now even I have sleeping accomodations for the night.

Kate is grateful for everyone's prayer support (especially those in Taiwan covering her with prayer in the middle of the night). She has a slight temperature and asks that you pray for it to go down. Also, her blood sugar is up a bit, she is eating some food while I type this so we hope is goes down.

Tomorrow, we expect to hear the results of the biopsy on the tumor. Tonight, we hope for a good night's sleep.

Grace and peace to all of our friends,

Dave (and Kate)

New Digs

Kate has moved to her new room on the neuroscience floor. Thankfully, the room/floor is much quieter.

Unfortunately, the room is a semi-private room which means there are two beds in the room. I asked the nurse if there might be another patient in the room, and she said that was very possible.

Our health insurance will only pay for a semi-private room. Please pray that the other bed will not be filled during her stay. I'm afraid that another patient in the room will be too noisy for her to rest properly. If it is too noisy, if you know Kate, she'll let them know!

Thank you my prayer partners.

Dave

Relocation

About 5 minutes after I sent the last post the nurse informed me that a room had opened up in the neurological recovery floor. Kate should be moved very soon. Thank you for praying about this.

One of the people sitting with me here in the hosptial said that I looked refreshed, like I had a full night's sleep. Truly, our Heavenly Father must be sustaining me because of your intercession.

Praise the Lord.

Dave

P.S. This blog is very therapeutic and becoming addictive (in a healthy way)!

Progress

Dr. Forget updated me that Kate is responding well to neurological tests and is cleared to leave the ICU. She will be moving sometime today to the neurological recovery floor where it will be even more quiet. Similar to yesterday it sounds like they are waiting for a room to open up. Please be praying that one will open soon.

Also, Kate has been struggling with nausea. The doctor says it is normal but a nuisance for someone trying to rest.

Finally, Kate is very sensitive to light and sound. For example, when the nurse closed a drawer in Kate's room she said it sounded like someone was screaming in her ear.

We covet your prayers.

Dave

Long night

Kate was moved to an ICU room last night around 9:30 pm (only for observation purposes). She was receiving care from the nurses every hour on the hour. She received many different drugs throughout the night including narcotics, anti-nausea, steroids, insulin, anti-anxiety meds, etc.

The steroids (given around 3 am) made it hard for her to sleep as her heartbeat was around 110 beats per minute. However, around 5 am they gave her another anti-anxiety med and that lulled her back to sleep.

I was able to get about 4 hours of sleep, from 1-3 am and 5-7 am. I'm tired but hanging in there.

Thank you to everyone that is coordinating the details of our family's care during this time. It is really appreciated.

Please pray that the Lord will be preparing Kate and I for the results of the biopsy on the tumor. Also, please pray that Kate will continue the healing process.

God bless all of you who are supporting us with prayer and support.

Dave

God is Amazing!

This is unbelievable! (OK, it is believable because it happened) God must be reading this blog. Within 2 minutes of sending the last post, I was paged and notified that an ICU room had just become available.

Why am I surprised, God is so good! He knows what we need before we ask.

Dave

Post-op Visit

I finally had the opportunity to visit Kate in the post-op recovery room. She is awake and coherent and even looks pretty good (for someone that just had brain surgery). I told her that an unbelievable number of people were praying for her and that we had received about 100 comments on the blog today offering words of encouragement and support. She had a tearful look on her face when I said this.

We do have a specific prayer request. Kate is supposed to go to ICU tonight but unfortunately they have run out of ICU rooms. She will stay in the post-op recovery room for the night if one does not open up. The post-op recovery area is noisy and crowded (20 beds in one room). In order to rest, Kate really needs some peace and quiet that only an ICU room can offer. Please pray that one of these rooms opens up soon.

Blessings in Christ,

Dave

Praise God for His Many Blessings

Kate is out of surgery and in recovery. The doctor said she is awake and the operation was successful. Praise God!

Within the next 24-48 hours (after they conduct the pathology) they will know if the tumor is cancerous or not and to what degree.

Once she leaves the recovery room she will be in the ICU for at least 24 hours.

In addition to your prayers, the comments left on this blog have been very uplifting to both of us.

I am overwhelmed by God's grace.

Dave

Waiting is the hardest part...

As I'm sitting here waiting patiently in the waiting area God has calmed my fears as I read Psalm 34. If you have a Bible handy it's a great read.

Blessings to all of our prayer warriors.

Dave

Surgery has begun

I just received word that Kate's surgery has begun (2:15). She was at peace and laughing as she left pre-op. She was so at peace that she declined the "happy juice" before the anesthesia. Our God is so good.

Dave

Waiting patiently

Kate had her stealth MRI at 10 this morning and all went smoothly. She has markers on her head that look like mint green lifesavers candy.

Keep the comments and encouragement coming. I am reading the comments from the blog to her as we wait.

There is a possibility that surgery may begin before 2:30. Kate has a lot of peace right now.

Please keep praying for us.

In God's Hands,

Dave and Kate

My 2 younger sons

I am up at 4:15 am. My second child woke up with a "bad dream". I went back in his room to pray with him and tuck him back in. Less than 30 minutes later my youngest woke up yelling "mommmeeeee". I went in there to re cover him and pray. My heart is aching for my sons. Please pray for them while Dave & I are in the hospital at night. Of course I can't go back to sleep. My mind starts in "mach" mode once awake.

Some of you are having difficulty leaving a comment on the blog. If that is the case you may call Covenant Christian School and ask them for our personal email. All I ask is that you do not send those generic "groupie" emails in the months ahead. I delete them. - Kate

Lift Up Your Head

I have been reminded - I am fearfully and wonderfully made - I know that full well in Psalm 139. God knew when He formed me in my mothers womb 33 years ago that this was going to happen. Please remember to pray for my mom in the days to come - .

Your voice, O God, thunders in marvelous ways;You do great things which we can't understand. Job 37:5

I am having ups and downs. I am on a major roller coaster ride emotionally. Yes this mountain climb is difficult but, I am looking forward to the repelling part to rest on the cleft of the rock.

My two oldest are really coping well. Thanks for praying for them. I know that they are stepping up to the plate in responsibilities. My second oldest is looking forward to getting the youngest out of his crib in the morning. Lately I have been like chopped liver cuz all he wants is his brother in the morning. My second oldest will then sing our special "Good Morning Brother, Bless the Lord Jesus is King, Jesus is King . . . . . . He's Lord of everything". He has made it clear though that he doesn't want the diaper changing duty. I told him that is clearly alright.
I have been so confirmed in the training process of our boys. They are a delight to my heart. I do not regret any time that I have spent with them. I love each moment from our rock park tadpole adventures to digging for worms in the backyard. Yes my friends call me the Official Field Trip Mommy. I always have a fun place to go with them.
As for my youngest, the last few days he will say "I hold mommy". That is his way of hugging me so tightly around my lower head. It will be hard to reject those hugs in the next few weeks.
My oldest - he just wants to talk about everything. Tonight in bed he quoted Isaiah 41:10, "Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." He memorized that last year. I am so glad he has it hidden in his heart.

My last words will be from a Jars of Clay song:
God will Lift Up Your Head (a spin off of a traditional hymn translated by John Wesley)

Give to the wind your fear
Hope and be undismayed
God hears your sighs and counts your tears
God will lift up, God will lift up, lift up your head
God will Lift Up your Head
Leave to His sovereign sway
To choose and to command
Then shall we wandering on His way
Know how wise and how strong
How wise and how strong
God will lift up your head . . . . . . .lift up your head
Through waves and clouds and storms, He gently clears the way
Wait because in His time, so shall this night
Soon end in joy, soon end in joy, soon end in joy . . .
God will lift up your head.

Wow! literally. I am at a place of peace I truly have never experienced before. Thanks for taking this journey with me. I am humbled. Truly humbled. - Good night I will talk with you soon!
Don't forget to love on my Dave!

Kate

tidbit story of marriage

Please read the comment from Laura J. under the "thats why I need you". It is a great tidbit story of Dave & I. I hope it brings you joy like it did me.
Kate

Final preparations for my family

Please pray for me as I am preparing individual letters to each child (even my youngest). There are so many more in my family that I want to share my love and affection to. I am not sure that I can get to all of them.

I called my grandpa this morning at 6:30. I left him a message that I really wanted to come and look at him face to face and tell him "I love you. I am so glad you are still with us here on earth. I really need one of your poppers right now."

A popper is a special kiss he has given me since I was little. Prior to leaving my grandparents home I would stand on the kitchen chair and he would give me a big popper.
Kate

Surgery time change

The update is as follows:

St. John's

Tuesday, November 7

9:30 arrive for pre qual at surgery center
meet Dr. Forget to get markers placed on my head for the stealth MRI

2:30 Craniotomy stealth guided reduction of brain tumor surgery (they have blocked out a 3 hour time slot)

I am OK that it is no longer 4:10. That was just a kiss from my God to let me know He cares about me.

Group prayer at CCS

Covenant Christian School

a time of corporate prayer on Tuesday at 8:25

It would be great if you can come. I am not sure of the Tuesday schedule if Dave and I will be able to stay. The neurosurgeons office this morning (Monday) will be giving me more info about specific details ie: blood work and stuff. BE SURE TO VOTE on Tuesday as well. : )

As the day is drawing near, I am preparing.
My mom, Soccer Gram along with my younger sister, Aunt Dee Dee will be tag teaming on the homefront care. Many thanks to them for holding up the fort. My heart was filled with delight as I read my sisters comment. (She called herself Dee Dee cuz my youngest says it that way). It was good to hear what all she wrote as she knows (without even talking to me) her older sister is furioiusly writing out all the boys needs, schedules, emergency info, likes, dislikes, funny things they do, etc. The list goes on. The white binder will be on the counter for any caregiver that comes.

I will write more later hopefully during my son's nap at noon.
Thanks again for your compassion and love. Do keep the emails, comments and phone calls coming. I may not be able to respond to all but I am truly encouraged by them.
much love - Kate

Sorrow and hope

As Kate's surgery draws closer, I am feeling more and more emotion. I've cried many times in my life, but not many where I've wept. This morning was the latter. God reminded me that Kate and I are "one" and when one part of the body is hurt, the whole body suffers.

He also reminded me that His strength is made perfect in our weakness and that perfect love (His love) casts aside fear. Finally, he encouraged me that His yoke is easy and His burden is light.

At church this morning I thought of the story of Jesus and his dear friend Lazarus. When Jesus arrived at Lazarus' house, he had been dead for several days. It is interesting that Jesus stood outside the room where Lazarus' body was and wept before going in to bring him back to life. I thought to myself, why in the world did Jesus weep? Jesus is the Lord of Heaven and Earth and could easily raise Lazarus from the dead. It struck me then that I think Jesus wept because Lazarus was his friend and he knew that human sickness and death (results of a broken, sinful world) was not what God orginally intended for us but is why he came to earth (righteousness & the cross). I think the situation encouraged Jesus to accomplish his mission.

God used Lazarus' trial to demonstrate His glory and as a testimony of His grace for generations to come.

May it be so with our family as well.

Dave

Prayer from the planner

OK, I am up at 5:30 writing this. Here are some more tangible prayer requests. Please see an earlier blog entry for some other requests.

1. Sleep - I am taking a sleeping pill at bedtime since Friday night. It worked the first night. Pray I get a good 7 hours rest. My mind is like a ping pong tournament with all my thoughts.

2. That the family will not get any illness in the next few months. ie: flu

3. That I would listen to Dave when he says to * spend time with the boys * go to bed *etc.

4. Great quality time with the family TODAY! To capture every waking moment with them and cherish it in each one of our hearts.

5. Encourage Dave's heart. He is holding up quite well. While kissing in bed last night, he affirmed me. He is so dear. He says he has a peace about everything. God really is GREAT! He knew what kind of husband to give me 10 1/2 years ago. Thank you Jesus.

6. I am a event planner. Yes, for those who know me well. . . . You can chuckle. Please pray that I can let some things go. Our youngest child's birthday is Monday the 20th. I so want to plan (which I already had a little) a basketball party. "I shoot ba ball outside mommy" is what he says often. I have had his presents bought for at least a month now. I think we already have someone coming over to put together the Little Tykes basketball hoop.

Thanksgiving - It is my favorite holiday. Our family has so many traditions that are special. We give genuine thanks for our year and what we are individually thankful for. We always have a bonfire and hayride in the evening. After the turkey has set in and we are in our "zone" on the couch we go back for more food- especially sweet potato pie. I am so thankful for the heritage my boys have. Flag football anyone? Someone will need to take my place this year. : )

As for Christmas - I am so torn that there are only so many hours in the day till Tuesday. I want to buy my boys (including Dave) their gifts but, I KNOW that I need to just rest and spend it with them.

7. My hair - I am contemplating what to do with my hair. Since it will be shaved a full inch back at the front hairline, I am not sure what to do. If anything.

8. Appetite - I have not eaten much lately. Please pray that I make myself eat.

9. Pray for my family.

10. My neurosurgeon - Dr. Forget (remember it's not the english word forget - which is quite funny thinking this is a brain surgeon)

11. Hospital staff

12. All that post OP stuff. I will not be able to read along with a multitude of things for some time.

I am sure the list could go on. Please pray as the Lord leads! He is bigger than all of this. As Dave and I were cuddling in bed last night we were in awe of our mighty God who chose us to go through this trial. I am not sure I consider it a great privilege but, He only gives what we can handle. He will supply ALL my needs. I laughed to think "OK God I know I am a multi tasker but, this is a huge task" Then he quietly whispered to me. I am in control. Praise God

Please email or post on this board scripture that I can claim. My oldest child along with the rest of us need to highlight in our Bibles.

much love - the planner extrodinare - Kate

This is why I need YOU!

A friend from Colorado phoned yesterday. What an encouragement to my heart. Please read what she emailed me in response to the call. This is why I need the body of Christ. - Kate

Here are my thoughts on Exodus 17 that I shared with you this afternoon, as Kevin and Diane Hughes originally shared with me while I was going through my cancer journey that really spoke to my heart. In the story, the Israelites were traveling towards their promised land and were at a place of rest (literally, that is what Rephidim means) when the Amalekites attacked them. Moses told Joshua to go into battle against them in the valley, while Moses - who was getting along in years - went up onto a mountain to pray to God. So Moses lifted up his hands to God, and as long as his hands were lifted up the Israelites were winning the battle. However, when Moses grew weary and his hands fell, then the Israelites would start to lose ground against their enemy. Seeing this, Aaron and Hur, who were with Moses on the mountain side, took a stone to put under Moses and then stood on each side of him to help hold his hands up. In this way, the Israelites won the battle.

In many ways, that is what your current trial is like, Kate. Sometimes you will have the strength to pray and give praise to the Lord, and sometimes you'll be so weary and overwhelmed that all you can do is trust that others are on your mountain side, praying and helping you and your precious family when you cannot. It may feel like cheating, but its not - it is the way God intended it. What is interesting in the case of the Israelites' win is that Moses doesn't commemorate the win, but rather the fact that "hands were lifted up to the throne of the Lord" (Ex 17:16). God delights in hearing our prayers and seeing his church surrounding you with his tangible love and power!

So trust that our hands are lifted up to the great throne of our wonderful God, who cares intimately and deeply about you, your sweet husband and wonderful boys, dear friend...

Details of surgery

First of all - I encourage you to leave comments on this blog, you can click on the "Comments" section after each posting and create a comment. Also, feel free to pass this blog website on to any friends. The more praying the better.

OK here are some details about the actual surgery details in "Kates terminology".

Since the growth is on the front top right section of my brain the incision will start (1 inch into my hairline) over my left eye and all the way over to my right ear. The surgeon will then pull back the skin and drill a hole in my skull. After the hole is complete a "saw" will be used to cut a circular shape. This "man-hole" will be used to get to the growth.

After speaking to the surgeon on Friday. . . . By the way he is great! He has called our home personally 3 times to check in with me. he stated that it doesn't look like a meningioma. You can Google it for those who don't know what that is. From my reading that is a positive.

Post OP may look like: 1. headache pain (I thought that was a funny!), 2. black eye, 3. numbness for weeks at site of incision, 4. unreceptive to bright lights, 5. sensitivity to any brain stimulation, 6. no driving for at least a week (no problem for me - not like I want all of the city to see this black eye) I need to find some Jackie O shades! : ), 7. in later months - a sharp stinging pain as the nerves are trying to grow back.

It has been great to get the phone messages from all over the states!

Dave's work has been a great blessing. They gave him a BlackBerry. Wow! I think I was more excited for him than he was.

Please read what Dave just emailed to a friend of ours. It truly expresses what we are going through.

"Thank the Lord for a wonderful community of believers that are rallying around us with prayer, encouragement, service, and support. We are overwhelmed by God's grace working through His people. We can't imagine anyone going through this trial without a relationship with Jesus Christ. We are grateful for the solid teaching and healthy churches we have been a part of that have shaped our faith. Praise the Lord for His goodness."

This evening we had family pictures and our 2 year-old's pictures. A relief to me to know that it is done. Our 2 year old was so happy! On the way home Dave dropped the two older boys and myself off about 1/2 mile from the house so we could enjoy a nice walk home together. Great conversation, especially about their top 3 Christmas gifts.

I'm tired and signing off for the evening. Thank you to everyone for their prayers and support.

Kate

Gods Comfort...

God comforts us in all affliction so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction. 2 Corn 1:4


Before you call I will answer, and while your still speaking I will hear. Isaiah 65:24

Gettin' In the Game

Hello to all my friends,
Here is a girly version of the story that is unfolding in my life. I love how Dave writes so beautifully. Mine will not have such great sentence structure.

As stated previously my regular MRI was at 10 am on 11/3/06 and was read immediately by Dr. Forget my neurosurgeon. I was able to speak to him personally. He stated that there is a 4cm in diameter "growth" with water on my brain. It doesn't look as if it is growing on the actual skull . . .(whatever that means). He was quite sure this is not an infection. -- Praise for that or this would be MORE urgent!

OK as you know, surgery this Tuesday at noon with a stealth MRI first which will "grid" "GPS my brain" for lack of better terms. At 4:10 is the actual surgery to remove all growth. It will be determined in the days following what this growth is.

NOTES TO PONDER:
Wow! It has been such a whirlwind. Yes I am scared but, God's handprint is SO evident. When I received the call from the neurosurgeons office Friday afternoon stating the actual time of the surgery . . . I cried and was astounded. 4:10! That is a significant number for Dave & I. He kissed me for the first time at 4:10 in the afternoon. Yes God does care about the special details of our individual lives. He cares for ME. I knew that that phone call from the office was a definite confirmation that Tuesday is the "game day". I am gettin' in the game mode.

Many of you have expressed an interest in tangle helps ie: 3pm carpool, meals, school lunches for our children, grocery shopping, housecleaning, etc. Hopefully in this blog will be able to give the contact people who are organizing such things for us. Yes! We will take the help. Dave and I are organizing this weekend in how to have cash set aside for the volunteers in an envelope to allow them to make the runs to the store.

I do ask that godly men surround Dave during this time. He is such a wonderful man. So precious to me. Please be with him in ICU during the recovery - listen, mentor, encourage him, etc.

As for the actual homefront - It was a difficult & emotional day for our oldest son (8) Friday morning. He cried at breakfast then retreated to his bed to hide under his covers to pour out his tears. Please pray that God would give us the wisdom & words to affirm his feelings. It was precious that he wanted to look up a promise verse in the Bible with me. Something to claim for him. He said"Mom since I have been reading through the book of Daniel lets look there". He also said "I know we will find something in John." That brought inexpressable joy to my heart. We cried together for some time. I wouldn't trade that moment for anything!

As for our second oldest (6), he is his daddy made over. He is somewhat of an introvert. Pray that he will be able to process with the Lords help what this all means. His hugs have meant the world to me. He will just spur of the moment come over and squeeze me. Love it!

TANGIBLE PRAYER REQUESTS AT THIS TIME:
(of course pray as the Lord leads as well)

1. I am homozygeous for the MTHFR gene. Which in short means I am prone to blood clotting. I will be given a blood thinner after the surgery.
2. Dave, my husband - everything that you can think of
3. Our children
4. Please pray by name our neurosurgeon, Dr. Forget (say it with a french accent) It is not the english version - forget - what I will be doing after surgery. : )
5. The frontal lobe is a "good" place to operate on. It only will affect less than 5% of my memory & personality. Pray it doesn't do any. But if it does that is fine. Dave could use a less flambouyant wife at times! : )

I will post more details about the actual surgery later. For now the older boys are awake and hungry for their breakfast. We have 2 soccer games today at 9:15. Yeah! go Snodgrass boys!

Much love and concern - Kate