Well 3 months ago today Dan & I sat nervously in two different surgeons offices to find out what kind of brain tumor I had and what the best approach would be to get rid of it. Not knowing then how this would all play out, we did know I would be having surgery and I would be deaf in one ear. We also knew only time would tell on how well, or not so well, my recovery would actually go. I'm happy to say that exactly three months later (to the day) not only am I doing great, coping well with the hearing loss and feeling even better than I did before surgery...I am also RELEASED from my ENT surgeon and don't have to go back for a year...woo-hoo! Who would have thought only three months from start to finish? CRAZY!
I will have to go back in one year for an MRI just to make sure nothing new has started to grow. He also gave us some information regarding a "BAHA" ear device to help with surround sound for hearing but doesn't recommend it any earlier than 6-8 months post op. We'll have to do more research on this and see if I'm a fit etc. etc. I do still have to see the eye doctor and neurosurgeon within the next month and get their release but the ENT doctor didn't seem to think there would be anything to worry about!
I know I've said it many times before but I truly am so BLESSED!!!!
Thank you All once again for all of your support and prayers and thank you God for taking such good care of me!
Love,
Jen
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Monday, April 5, 2010
Too old, too fast.
What a great weekend we had with family and friends. However, as great as the weekend was, weather included, I felt some sadness too. It seems that no matter how hard we try, our kids are getting too old, too fast.
It hit me on Saturday as Nolan (our 9ish year old) and me spent some time together, just the two of us. I could tell something was on his mind. I asked him “Nolan what’s going on?” He replied “nothing really…but dad is there really an Easter Bunny?” I have to admit I wasn’t quite ready for this question on Easter eve at 5 o’ clock. Especially from the child who will go to great lengths to have any excuse to get candy (fictitious character delivery included). Somewhat stunned, I went on to explain the true meaning of Easter and how it really has nothing to do with the Easter Bunny but rather the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Satisfied with my biblical response, I then went into a long explanation about the spirit of the Easter Bunny and promised him that no matter how it arrived; an Easter basket would be waiting for him in the morning. “Just believe in the spirit of the Easter Bunny” I told him. I could tell by the look on his face, the jig is up.
Somewhat saddened that the Easter Bunny fairy tale was over for him, my thoughts turned to finding out who told him. I was thinking of how to address the child that “let the cat out of the bag” about the Easter Bunny. What neighbor kid could this have been and did he/she tell my younger two as well? Was it my oldest son that hasn’t believed for a few years, but does a convincing job of telling his mother and me he otherwise. When I find out who did it, what will I say to them? What will my oldest son’s punishment be? After all, they weren’t lying. Already having a few names in my head that it may have been, I asked Nolan “who told you there isn’t an Easter Bunny?” His response was “I Googled it!” “It came back as a fable”. “And dad, while we are at it, about this tooth fairy thing…”
Too old, too smart, too fast.
Happy Easter.
Dan
It hit me on Saturday as Nolan (our 9ish year old) and me spent some time together, just the two of us. I could tell something was on his mind. I asked him “Nolan what’s going on?” He replied “nothing really…but dad is there really an Easter Bunny?” I have to admit I wasn’t quite ready for this question on Easter eve at 5 o’ clock. Especially from the child who will go to great lengths to have any excuse to get candy (fictitious character delivery included). Somewhat stunned, I went on to explain the true meaning of Easter and how it really has nothing to do with the Easter Bunny but rather the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Satisfied with my biblical response, I then went into a long explanation about the spirit of the Easter Bunny and promised him that no matter how it arrived; an Easter basket would be waiting for him in the morning. “Just believe in the spirit of the Easter Bunny” I told him. I could tell by the look on his face, the jig is up.
Somewhat saddened that the Easter Bunny fairy tale was over for him, my thoughts turned to finding out who told him. I was thinking of how to address the child that “let the cat out of the bag” about the Easter Bunny. What neighbor kid could this have been and did he/she tell my younger two as well? Was it my oldest son that hasn’t believed for a few years, but does a convincing job of telling his mother and me he otherwise. When I find out who did it, what will I say to them? What will my oldest son’s punishment be? After all, they weren’t lying. Already having a few names in my head that it may have been, I asked Nolan “who told you there isn’t an Easter Bunny?” His response was “I Googled it!” “It came back as a fable”. “And dad, while we are at it, about this tooth fairy thing…”
Too old, too smart, too fast.
Happy Easter.
Dan
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Ask and You Shall Receive!
Well I had another great week and am now I'm starting spring break week with my children. Not much planned, just normal "kid" stuff all week and catching up with my best friend Jen from South Carolina (she's in town w/her two boys). I hope my boys take it easy on me: )!
I can't let this evening go by though without sharing this story. Yesterday Dan and I were talking about being baptized and the fact that I hadn't been. His words were something like, "Well, what are waiting for?" I agreed but had NO idea how to go about "scheduling" it. I always thought I would know when and it would just kind of happen...not be PLANNED! We also discussed that we've never witnessed our church doing an "unplanned" baptism. So I thought, I'll just look into it soon and see what I come up with...knowing me it would be put off for some time.
So this morning we went to church, like normal, and it was an amazing service. As the service became more and more inspirational Pastor Mike invited anyone, that has never been baptized, to be baptized. I was in shock! Could this really be happening? My hands started sweating and shaking, my heart started racing and after a couple of moments of thinking about "go or not go" I went up and was baptized in front of my church, with NO plan other than God's plan. How awesome is that? You ask for something and you just might get it! I must say today has been one emotional day and I've never felt more loved in all of my life.
Have a blessed week...mine is already off to a great start!
Love,
Jenny
I can't let this evening go by though without sharing this story. Yesterday Dan and I were talking about being baptized and the fact that I hadn't been. His words were something like, "Well, what are waiting for?" I agreed but had NO idea how to go about "scheduling" it. I always thought I would know when and it would just kind of happen...not be PLANNED! We also discussed that we've never witnessed our church doing an "unplanned" baptism. So I thought, I'll just look into it soon and see what I come up with...knowing me it would be put off for some time.
So this morning we went to church, like normal, and it was an amazing service. As the service became more and more inspirational Pastor Mike invited anyone, that has never been baptized, to be baptized. I was in shock! Could this really be happening? My hands started sweating and shaking, my heart started racing and after a couple of moments of thinking about "go or not go" I went up and was baptized in front of my church, with NO plan other than God's plan. How awesome is that? You ask for something and you just might get it! I must say today has been one emotional day and I've never felt more loved in all of my life.
Have a blessed week...mine is already off to a great start!
Love,
Jenny
Friday, March 19, 2010
5 weeks...
I usually slowly add new tasks to my days and today I was a Nurse. Nolan had a fever, soar throat and belly ache, Gordon has had a cough for several days and a snotty nose off and on for a couple of weeks and Landon...well he was supposed to just be along for the ride.
Off to the doctor we went to find out no strep for Nolan, just viral (as long as they don't call us in the AM with a positive from the lab, fingers crossed). Gordon has a pretty nasty sinus infection, then was sent to the lab to have blood drawn for the first time ever (he did very well I might add) to see if he has allergies (who knows where that's going to lead) and then I was advised to have his tonsils removed. Then Landon had his ears looked at, for no real reason other than he gets lots of ear infections AGAIN since the tubes fell out last summer and I wondered how they looked, (might as well take advantage of already being at the doctor and have them look, right?) Well he will need a second set of tubes, probably. So I guess I'll be making an ENT appointment real soon. I also guess I'M BACK...in FULL swing: )! I'm just so glad they didn't have all of these issues while I was down, lol.
The illnesses have put a damper on our weekend activities but the one thing we can still do is visit the Kid2Kid sale at our church tomorrow (organized by my Mom2Mom group). They are honoring our family and taking donations to help us out with medical bills and to donate to the ANA organization (who, at no fee, supplied us with all of our information to choose the best solution for my tumor). Again God is good!
I promise not to share my every little MOM detail with you all but I just found it funny that God knew when to let it all come at me again and so far I've held up pretty good. I am however heading to bed...pretty tired: )! Hope you all have wonderful weekend!
Love to you all!
Jenny
Off to the doctor we went to find out no strep for Nolan, just viral (as long as they don't call us in the AM with a positive from the lab, fingers crossed). Gordon has a pretty nasty sinus infection, then was sent to the lab to have blood drawn for the first time ever (he did very well I might add) to see if he has allergies (who knows where that's going to lead) and then I was advised to have his tonsils removed. Then Landon had his ears looked at, for no real reason other than he gets lots of ear infections AGAIN since the tubes fell out last summer and I wondered how they looked, (might as well take advantage of already being at the doctor and have them look, right?) Well he will need a second set of tubes, probably. So I guess I'll be making an ENT appointment real soon. I also guess I'M BACK...in FULL swing: )! I'm just so glad they didn't have all of these issues while I was down, lol.
The illnesses have put a damper on our weekend activities but the one thing we can still do is visit the Kid2Kid sale at our church tomorrow (organized by my Mom2Mom group). They are honoring our family and taking donations to help us out with medical bills and to donate to the ANA organization (who, at no fee, supplied us with all of our information to choose the best solution for my tumor). Again God is good!
I promise not to share my every little MOM detail with you all but I just found it funny that God knew when to let it all come at me again and so far I've held up pretty good. I am however heading to bed...pretty tired: )! Hope you all have wonderful weekend!
Love to you all!
Jenny
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
A Peaceful Moment!
As I sit here this morning, sipping from one of my new coffee mugs my husband gave me my first day home from the hospital, I can't help but think of how truly blessed I'm am. The sun is out, the birds are singing, my flowers we planted last fall are blooming and my three year old just told me I look so pretty in my green shirt (St. Patrick's Day ya know). Looking around at all of these things I realize once again how wonderful God really is and I can't think of ONE thing to complain about. I hope that your day is blessed and while others are taking things away from you, for what ever reason, you take a moment to realize what God has given us...everything we really NEED!
Love to you all!
Jen
In this world it is not what we take up, but what we give up, that makes us rich. (Henry Ward Beecher)
Love to you all!
Jen
In this world it is not what we take up, but what we give up, that makes us rich. (Henry Ward Beecher)
Monday, March 15, 2010
First Day Alone...sort of!
Well I survived my first day alone with no additional help (during the day anyway...Dan still helped getting the kids off to school and another wonderful family still made a meal for us...I can't do it all yet). I feel pretty good and no headache. I was even able to attend Nolan's 2nd grade music program at his school. My mother-in-law went with Gordon, Landon and me and that was nice. Nolan was so happy to see us. However, once again I am finding that I need to strategically place myself when I sit somewhere. My bad ear was to the stage and made it hard for me to hear the songs and instruments. I'm learning...just another small thing to get used to that's all.
I know this one is short and sweet but I thought it would be better than 2-3 pages every 7-8 days or so. Thank you all for your continued support and prayers!
Off to bed to get ready for day 2: )!
Love,
Jenny
I know this one is short and sweet but I thought it would be better than 2-3 pages every 7-8 days or so. Thank you all for your continued support and prayers!
Off to bed to get ready for day 2: )!
Love,
Jenny
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Welcome spring
Although it is hard to believe it has been a full month since the surgery, it’s really hard to believe it has only been 3 months since this entire ordeal began. Reality hit me yesterday. As I looked over our tulips that are starting to poke their heads out of the ground, I remembered Jenny and I had planted them on the first anniversary of my fathers passing last fall. I thought it appropriate that today (yesterday), on what would have been dad’s 82nd birthday; I took time to notice they have started to come out of their slumber. It then hit me; when we spent that day last fall planting bulbs to celebrate a life well lived, we had no idea what life or the looming winter held in store for us. We were only concerned about strategically placing our bulbs deep enough so they may survive the cold of winter until spring. I am happy to report that the bulbs we planted are now sprouting. They’ve survived their harsh winter, and so did we.
Dan
Dan
One month Anniversary!
Hello Everyone!
I just can't believe it's been a month already. Some days I don't even feel like it happened (which is crazy but amazing) and other days are still a little tough.
Wednesday I went to see my neurosurgeon for the first time since the surgery. He was pleasantly surprised with my progress. The incision is healing very well, my balance is getting back to pre-surgery “normal” (I was having balance problems prior to the surgery and it's not completely restored) and my smile isn't as lopsided: )! He said I'm way beyond schedule but I still have lifting limitations for up to 8 weeks or more. He did say I can drive but only locally (no highway or at night) until my balance is better. I'm so excited about that b/c now I can go to the bank, post office, park or wherever!
On Friday (that was actually my 4 week anniversary) my friend cut my hair for me and made it look a little nicer (I'll have to post a new picture) and then we were able to go out to dinner with another couple to celebrate. Seriously...a grown up dinner with my husband, woo-hoo! They were all very patient with my lack of hearing considering I kept moving everyone into different chairs until I could hear the conversation better...there goes that "high maintenance girl" I've turned into: )! The waitress was very confused; )!
The boys have all had basketball games this weekend and we were able to spend time with family. It's been rainy but rain or shine I'm just happy to be feeling better and more and more normal.
Next week will be interesting...I'm going to attempt a few days with the kiddos by myself. Dan helps me get them ready for school and on the bus in the mornings and then it's Landon and me until 12:30 (that's about the time one of our moms would come over...how amazing are they?). Gordon gets home from school then and the big boys get home at 3:50. I feel like I'll do fine but I promised the moms I'd let them know if I needed help again. This is just all soooo weird for me...having folks in my house doing my work for me...I'm just so blessed to have the choice but I really don't want to set myself back any either. Wish me luck!
That's all I really have to report right now...obviously ALL of everyone's prayers have been and are working b/c no news is definitely GOOD NEWS! I thank GOD everyday for life, family, friends and His love. Without those things I wouldn't be where I'm at today so THANK YOU!!!!
Love and Blessings to you all!
Jenny
I just can't believe it's been a month already. Some days I don't even feel like it happened (which is crazy but amazing) and other days are still a little tough.
Wednesday I went to see my neurosurgeon for the first time since the surgery. He was pleasantly surprised with my progress. The incision is healing very well, my balance is getting back to pre-surgery “normal” (I was having balance problems prior to the surgery and it's not completely restored) and my smile isn't as lopsided: )! He said I'm way beyond schedule but I still have lifting limitations for up to 8 weeks or more. He did say I can drive but only locally (no highway or at night) until my balance is better. I'm so excited about that b/c now I can go to the bank, post office, park or wherever!
On Friday (that was actually my 4 week anniversary) my friend cut my hair for me and made it look a little nicer (I'll have to post a new picture) and then we were able to go out to dinner with another couple to celebrate. Seriously...a grown up dinner with my husband, woo-hoo! They were all very patient with my lack of hearing considering I kept moving everyone into different chairs until I could hear the conversation better...there goes that "high maintenance girl" I've turned into: )! The waitress was very confused; )!
The boys have all had basketball games this weekend and we were able to spend time with family. It's been rainy but rain or shine I'm just happy to be feeling better and more and more normal.
Next week will be interesting...I'm going to attempt a few days with the kiddos by myself. Dan helps me get them ready for school and on the bus in the mornings and then it's Landon and me until 12:30 (that's about the time one of our moms would come over...how amazing are they?). Gordon gets home from school then and the big boys get home at 3:50. I feel like I'll do fine but I promised the moms I'd let them know if I needed help again. This is just all soooo weird for me...having folks in my house doing my work for me...I'm just so blessed to have the choice but I really don't want to set myself back any either. Wish me luck!
That's all I really have to report right now...obviously ALL of everyone's prayers have been and are working b/c no news is definitely GOOD NEWS! I thank GOD everyday for life, family, friends and His love. Without those things I wouldn't be where I'm at today so THANK YOU!!!!
Love and Blessings to you all!
Jenny
Friday, March 5, 2010
3 Weeks Later Already!
Hello Everyone! I know it's been a while since I’ve posted and I apologize...I've been trying not to bore you all with every little, daily detail: )!
This past week has gone really well. My dad left to head back to Florida on Sunday, and we miss him terribly, but he needed to get back to his normal life and we're able to do a little more for ourselves now. He sure was amazingly helpful. My mother-in-law, Joy, and my mom came over each day in the afternoon so I wasn't by myself with the boys all day. I still have lifting and driving restrictions plus by late afternoon I'm pretty tired. My sister-in-law even came and cleaned our house (twice now)...I really could get used to this, lol!
Monday and Tuesday were okay days...I still felt worn out, had headaches and earaches but nothing like it could be. Then there was Wednesday, Thursday and today. I must say I have turned a corner. I feel so "normal", like the surgery was months ago not just 3 weeks ago. The headaches have really died off, the balance is much better, my scar doesn't have the ache and pressure it once had and my eye is not hurting or as dry as it used to be. I'm hoping to start on my "thank you" notes now that my eye is working better. I do have to be careful not to bend over and have my head completely upside down...that's a little painful...but seriously I FEEL SO MUCH BETTER! I'm not rushing time away but I can't wait to see how great I feel next week: )!
Yesterday my girlfriend drove Landon and me to mom2mom with her. AWESOME...to see all of those women and do the bible study again was amazing! They sure made me feel good too with all of the hugs, complements and interest in how I was doing. It was even more wonderful to hear some of their new news and know how they are doing so I can help pray for them too. They are a wonderful group of sisters in Christ and I feel so blessed and honored to be a part of that ministry.
The blessings did not stop there. Our friends, as well as the new people that have come into our lives, the ones that we have reconnected with, the ones that have reached out that don't even know us and will probably never meet us and of course our wonderful, supportive family; have all been so amazing, helpful, caring, generous and selfless. Without ALL of you, we could have never made it through this so smoothly. We've had cards, emails, calls, meals, gifts, PRAYERS, encouragement, support and on and on. I can't thank you all enough, or individually like I would like to, but I sure hope you all know how much we appreciate each and everyone of you. God has really worked through us all and made this a huge success story...a true miracle!
You know so many people have told me how inspirational I or my story has been to them. I am so flattered but I have to say that b/c of you all and of course God I've been able to stay focused and positive. So in return YOU ALL have been just as inspirational to me...love to you all! If you'd like to share your inspiring story so I can return some prayer and praise I would love to hear them. I just feel like I was chosen to fight this tumor and not b/c there was a tumor to be beat but because lives were meant to be touched...including mine. So the story at hand here is NOT that some girl beat some tumor...it's that a collection of wonderful, loving people listened to God and came together to help some girl beat this tumor. And while the tumor is long gone, thank God, the lives touched are still going and now touching others and in the end making a HUGE difference in someone else’s life. How AWESOME is that?!?!?!
Okay, I feel like I just wrote a "Lifetime Movie" and I got a little corny so I'll move on. I go to Cincinnati next Wednesday to see the neurosurgeon...not Dr. McDreamer (but that's okay I have Mr. McFunny here at home)! I'm hoping he'll feel like I have progressed nicely and will lift some of these lingering restrictions. But even he doesn't I am physically able to do more and more everyday so I'll listen and mind and try not to get too antsy about it. It's just weird to ask people to do such "silly" stuff for me sometimes but at least I'm here to ask for that help, right?
Okay I’m going to close (and try to write more often so it’s not this long…sorry). I wish you all a wonderful weekend and lots of sunshine…it’s finally out here…woo-hoo!
Love to you all and God Bless,
Jenny
This past week has gone really well. My dad left to head back to Florida on Sunday, and we miss him terribly, but he needed to get back to his normal life and we're able to do a little more for ourselves now. He sure was amazingly helpful. My mother-in-law, Joy, and my mom came over each day in the afternoon so I wasn't by myself with the boys all day. I still have lifting and driving restrictions plus by late afternoon I'm pretty tired. My sister-in-law even came and cleaned our house (twice now)...I really could get used to this, lol!
Monday and Tuesday were okay days...I still felt worn out, had headaches and earaches but nothing like it could be. Then there was Wednesday, Thursday and today. I must say I have turned a corner. I feel so "normal", like the surgery was months ago not just 3 weeks ago. The headaches have really died off, the balance is much better, my scar doesn't have the ache and pressure it once had and my eye is not hurting or as dry as it used to be. I'm hoping to start on my "thank you" notes now that my eye is working better. I do have to be careful not to bend over and have my head completely upside down...that's a little painful...but seriously I FEEL SO MUCH BETTER! I'm not rushing time away but I can't wait to see how great I feel next week: )!
Yesterday my girlfriend drove Landon and me to mom2mom with her. AWESOME...to see all of those women and do the bible study again was amazing! They sure made me feel good too with all of the hugs, complements and interest in how I was doing. It was even more wonderful to hear some of their new news and know how they are doing so I can help pray for them too. They are a wonderful group of sisters in Christ and I feel so blessed and honored to be a part of that ministry.
The blessings did not stop there. Our friends, as well as the new people that have come into our lives, the ones that we have reconnected with, the ones that have reached out that don't even know us and will probably never meet us and of course our wonderful, supportive family; have all been so amazing, helpful, caring, generous and selfless. Without ALL of you, we could have never made it through this so smoothly. We've had cards, emails, calls, meals, gifts, PRAYERS, encouragement, support and on and on. I can't thank you all enough, or individually like I would like to, but I sure hope you all know how much we appreciate each and everyone of you. God has really worked through us all and made this a huge success story...a true miracle!
You know so many people have told me how inspirational I or my story has been to them. I am so flattered but I have to say that b/c of you all and of course God I've been able to stay focused and positive. So in return YOU ALL have been just as inspirational to me...love to you all! If you'd like to share your inspiring story so I can return some prayer and praise I would love to hear them. I just feel like I was chosen to fight this tumor and not b/c there was a tumor to be beat but because lives were meant to be touched...including mine. So the story at hand here is NOT that some girl beat some tumor...it's that a collection of wonderful, loving people listened to God and came together to help some girl beat this tumor. And while the tumor is long gone, thank God, the lives touched are still going and now touching others and in the end making a HUGE difference in someone else’s life. How AWESOME is that?!?!?!
Okay, I feel like I just wrote a "Lifetime Movie" and I got a little corny so I'll move on. I go to Cincinnati next Wednesday to see the neurosurgeon...not Dr. McDreamer (but that's okay I have Mr. McFunny here at home)! I'm hoping he'll feel like I have progressed nicely and will lift some of these lingering restrictions. But even he doesn't I am physically able to do more and more everyday so I'll listen and mind and try not to get too antsy about it. It's just weird to ask people to do such "silly" stuff for me sometimes but at least I'm here to ask for that help, right?
Okay I’m going to close (and try to write more often so it’s not this long…sorry). I wish you all a wonderful weekend and lots of sunshine…it’s finally out here…woo-hoo!
Love to you all and God Bless,
Jenny
Thursday, February 25, 2010
First Post Op Visit!
Hello Everyone!
Yesterday we went to Cincinnati and I finally got my stitches out...woo-hoo! I feel so much better just from that not to mention I'm getting more and more strength back every day.
I saw the ENT surgeon which includes Dr. McDreamer, so good on the eyes (I'll see the neurosurgeon in 2 weeks) and he said that I am doing great and couldn't believe it had only been 12 days since my surgery (this was after I had to show them my belly scar from where they took out the belly fat to put into my head...that wasn't uncomfortable or anything. How is it that I had four children, no C-sections or even epidurals and now I get a brain tumor, have my ear removed and put back on...which is now sticking out on that side...fat taken from my belly...but not enough to make me look good, actually left a big ole scar right in the middle...and now my eye won't close (read below)? I really am becoming quite the freak show, lol!) He sent me home with some simple exercises for my balance but still no driving or lifting more than 5-10lbs. for a while. He obviously hasn't seen my boys: )!
Okay the issue with my eye...sometimes when the facial nerve has some weakness, the eye on that side will have problems closing...well mine is having that problem. It appears that when I'm sleeping that eye is not staying closed through out the night and causing a lot of pain and dry eye (I'm sure my husband will be watching me sleep now to see if I'm watching him sleep...this whole thing has really gotten weird, huh?) I went to the Cincinnati Eye Institute today and had it examined...so far no real damage but continuous dry eye can cause serious problems on down the road. So, I was sent home with eye gel for nighttime and drops for daytime. Hopefully these will work while that nerve gets stronger and there will be no permanent damage. I go back in 4 weeks to have that looked at again.
Other than my balance, eye issue, some ear spasms and my pride...I feel really, really good! No seriously, I'm so lucky and so grateful for such an awesome recovery. I can't believe tomorrow will only be 2 weeks since my surgery...I really would have never guessed I'd be this far down the recovery road. I know all of your prayers, thoughts, encouragement and wishes have played such a huge part in my rapid recovery. God has heard them all and has obviously listened! THANK YOU...I really can't say enough about all of the support. I hope I can return the favor someday to each of you!
I'm heading to bed...the weekend is around the corner! I'm working hard at not over doing it so wish me luck and I'll write again soon! Thank you all again and much, much love and blessings to all of you!
Jenny
Yesterday we went to Cincinnati and I finally got my stitches out...woo-hoo! I feel so much better just from that not to mention I'm getting more and more strength back every day.
I saw the ENT surgeon which includes Dr. McDreamer, so good on the eyes (I'll see the neurosurgeon in 2 weeks) and he said that I am doing great and couldn't believe it had only been 12 days since my surgery (this was after I had to show them my belly scar from where they took out the belly fat to put into my head...that wasn't uncomfortable or anything. How is it that I had four children, no C-sections or even epidurals and now I get a brain tumor, have my ear removed and put back on...which is now sticking out on that side...fat taken from my belly...but not enough to make me look good, actually left a big ole scar right in the middle...and now my eye won't close (read below)? I really am becoming quite the freak show, lol!) He sent me home with some simple exercises for my balance but still no driving or lifting more than 5-10lbs. for a while. He obviously hasn't seen my boys: )!
Okay the issue with my eye...sometimes when the facial nerve has some weakness, the eye on that side will have problems closing...well mine is having that problem. It appears that when I'm sleeping that eye is not staying closed through out the night and causing a lot of pain and dry eye (I'm sure my husband will be watching me sleep now to see if I'm watching him sleep...this whole thing has really gotten weird, huh?) I went to the Cincinnati Eye Institute today and had it examined...so far no real damage but continuous dry eye can cause serious problems on down the road. So, I was sent home with eye gel for nighttime and drops for daytime. Hopefully these will work while that nerve gets stronger and there will be no permanent damage. I go back in 4 weeks to have that looked at again.
Other than my balance, eye issue, some ear spasms and my pride...I feel really, really good! No seriously, I'm so lucky and so grateful for such an awesome recovery. I can't believe tomorrow will only be 2 weeks since my surgery...I really would have never guessed I'd be this far down the recovery road. I know all of your prayers, thoughts, encouragement and wishes have played such a huge part in my rapid recovery. God has heard them all and has obviously listened! THANK YOU...I really can't say enough about all of the support. I hope I can return the favor someday to each of you!
I'm heading to bed...the weekend is around the corner! I'm working hard at not over doing it so wish me luck and I'll write again soon! Thank you all again and much, much love and blessings to all of you!
Jenny
Monday, February 22, 2010
One week already!
Hello All,
I just wanted to send an update and let you all know how things are going. Today I've been home a week already and can't believe it.
The weekend was nice having everyone home. I was even able to go to the boys’ basketball games. Unfortunately, it really wore me out...more than I had expected...but regardless it was nice to see them play and get out of the house for an hour or so.
It's funny because I feel so blessed that this whole ordeal has progressed so wonderfully that I sometimes forget that I still have a long road ahead of me. The past few days I have been getting more feeling back in my face and ear area. This is great considering that it was numb for so long but new feeling also means feeling new pain. There are a lot of spasms in my ear and around my jaw and neck. The pulling in the skin behind my ear really is bothersome and I seriously can't wait to get theses stitches out. I go Wednesday to get them removed and that should help with all of the pressure and pulling that I'm feeling. I took some muscle relaxers/spasm pills for it on Sunday and I don’t know what was worse…the pain or the sluggishness I felt ALL day from the pills. I don’t do pills well at all so I won’t be taking those anymore.
I’m anxious to talk to the doctor tomorrow and find out just how well things are going. Today has been a not-so-great day…lots of head pressure, ear spasms and eye dryness/burning. I can do pain and recovery…I just want to make sure it is ALL normal and not something else.
Dan went back to work this week. Poor guy…I’m not sure what wears him out more… being home and doing this work or going to work and worrying about being at home. I’m so lucky that he’s so strong. He keeps me grounded that’s for sure.
My dad is still here and helps us out while Dan is at work (this has been such a blessing). Because I can’t do the steps by myself, I stay on one floor for most of the day. My dad however is working out of our house in the basement and every so often he flies up the steps like Kramer in Seinfeld to see if he’s going to catch me doing something I shouldn't. Glad he didn’t move that fast when I was a teen…who knows what kind of trouble I would have been in, lol!
Overall things are going well and still better than expected! We’re so grateful for all of those helping us out be it prayers, meals, encouragement, cards, flowers etc. etc. It has ALL made this recovery a lot more bearable! We’re so thankful and hope you all know how much you mean to us! We’ll be updating you soon…after the appointment tomorrow!
Blessings to you all,
Jen
I just wanted to send an update and let you all know how things are going. Today I've been home a week already and can't believe it.
The weekend was nice having everyone home. I was even able to go to the boys’ basketball games. Unfortunately, it really wore me out...more than I had expected...but regardless it was nice to see them play and get out of the house for an hour or so.
It's funny because I feel so blessed that this whole ordeal has progressed so wonderfully that I sometimes forget that I still have a long road ahead of me. The past few days I have been getting more feeling back in my face and ear area. This is great considering that it was numb for so long but new feeling also means feeling new pain. There are a lot of spasms in my ear and around my jaw and neck. The pulling in the skin behind my ear really is bothersome and I seriously can't wait to get theses stitches out. I go Wednesday to get them removed and that should help with all of the pressure and pulling that I'm feeling. I took some muscle relaxers/spasm pills for it on Sunday and I don’t know what was worse…the pain or the sluggishness I felt ALL day from the pills. I don’t do pills well at all so I won’t be taking those anymore.
I’m anxious to talk to the doctor tomorrow and find out just how well things are going. Today has been a not-so-great day…lots of head pressure, ear spasms and eye dryness/burning. I can do pain and recovery…I just want to make sure it is ALL normal and not something else.
Dan went back to work this week. Poor guy…I’m not sure what wears him out more… being home and doing this work or going to work and worrying about being at home. I’m so lucky that he’s so strong. He keeps me grounded that’s for sure.
My dad is still here and helps us out while Dan is at work (this has been such a blessing). Because I can’t do the steps by myself, I stay on one floor for most of the day. My dad however is working out of our house in the basement and every so often he flies up the steps like Kramer in Seinfeld to see if he’s going to catch me doing something I shouldn't. Glad he didn’t move that fast when I was a teen…who knows what kind of trouble I would have been in, lol!
Overall things are going well and still better than expected! We’re so grateful for all of those helping us out be it prayers, meals, encouragement, cards, flowers etc. etc. It has ALL made this recovery a lot more bearable! We’re so thankful and hope you all know how much you mean to us! We’ll be updating you soon…after the appointment tomorrow!
Blessings to you all,
Jen
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Another Good Day!
Today was another good day! Two of our boys had basketball games (10am and 4pm) and I was able to go to both...definitely had to have a nap in between though! It felt good to get out of the house, see some people at the church and enjoy the fresh air. I'm pretty tired tonight but over all I feel really good.
Some of our family stayed the evening with us and we did some catching up on "old times" which is always nice. I'd love to go to church for service in the morning...we'll have to see how everything goes. It'll be there next week if we can't but I'm really missing it!
I hope you all are having a great weekend!
Good night and God Bless!
Jen
P.S. Thanks for all of the comments on my new picture. Crazy it was only one week after my surgery. Sometimes when I pass a mirror I do a double take b/c I really didn't expect to look "normal" so soon! So Awesome!
Some of our family stayed the evening with us and we did some catching up on "old times" which is always nice. I'd love to go to church for service in the morning...we'll have to see how everything goes. It'll be there next week if we can't but I'm really missing it!
I hope you all are having a great weekend!
Good night and God Bless!
Jen
P.S. Thanks for all of the comments on my new picture. Crazy it was only one week after my surgery. Sometimes when I pass a mirror I do a double take b/c I really didn't expect to look "normal" so soon! So Awesome!
Friday, February 19, 2010
It's so easy...
I have cheated on today's blog b/c I feel everyone needs to read my husband's comment to my post yesterday. Since it was in the comments I was affraid someone would miss it and it's too good to miss, lol! Sorry for the repeat. Enjoy!
Love, Jen
Jenny makes this homemaker thing look easier than it actually is.
I started the laundry today. For those that don’t know, Jenny is very protective of her washer and dryer (she even put a laundry “cheat sheet” of instructions above the appliances in the event I were to even think of using them). That’s why I got really nervous when the first load I attempted I received an error code (D4). It appears I broke her washing machine on my very first attempted load. Luckily, I had kept the manuals that provide help in troubleshooting various error codes. It turns out “D4” is a common code for our model. It’s highly technical but luckily I have the technological background to troubleshoot such an issue. It means “DOOR OPEN” (actually D=door open, 4= wait 4 your wife).
Later in the day I had three loads completed, was on my fourth and feeling pretty good. The kids arrived home from school and started on their snacks. Jenny usually makes the boys move right on to their homework and goes through the school backpacks with each of them. I thought, “This is easy, homework can wait. Let’s play in the snow first”. Off we went to play for an hour or so. Upon returning, we ate a great dinner and it was time for their homework. Soon it became apparent to me why Jenny goes through the school bags immediately. It appears Nolan, my second oldest, decided to bring home a “pet” snow ball hidden in his bag. I’m sure she was beautiful in a more solid state. We’ve since named her “puddles”.
The later it gets in the evening, the more reality is setting in. The four now clean loads of laundry, at some point, need to be put away. I guess I just assumed it would take care of itself. After all it had in the past. Whenever I needed a shirt or pants, there they were. I never thought about the work it takes to get them there. She sure does make it look easy. It’s not.
I have to go. Socks don’t match themselves.
Dan
Love, Jen
Jenny makes this homemaker thing look easier than it actually is.
I started the laundry today. For those that don’t know, Jenny is very protective of her washer and dryer (she even put a laundry “cheat sheet” of instructions above the appliances in the event I were to even think of using them). That’s why I got really nervous when the first load I attempted I received an error code (D4). It appears I broke her washing machine on my very first attempted load. Luckily, I had kept the manuals that provide help in troubleshooting various error codes. It turns out “D4” is a common code for our model. It’s highly technical but luckily I have the technological background to troubleshoot such an issue. It means “DOOR OPEN” (actually D=door open, 4= wait 4 your wife).
Later in the day I had three loads completed, was on my fourth and feeling pretty good. The kids arrived home from school and started on their snacks. Jenny usually makes the boys move right on to their homework and goes through the school backpacks with each of them. I thought, “This is easy, homework can wait. Let’s play in the snow first”. Off we went to play for an hour or so. Upon returning, we ate a great dinner and it was time for their homework. Soon it became apparent to me why Jenny goes through the school bags immediately. It appears Nolan, my second oldest, decided to bring home a “pet” snow ball hidden in his bag. I’m sure she was beautiful in a more solid state. We’ve since named her “puddles”.
The later it gets in the evening, the more reality is setting in. The four now clean loads of laundry, at some point, need to be put away. I guess I just assumed it would take care of itself. After all it had in the past. Whenever I needed a shirt or pants, there they were. I never thought about the work it takes to get them there. She sure does make it look easy. It’s not.
I have to go. Socks don’t match themselves.
Dan
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Checking in!
Just when you think more blessings can't possibly come...they do! We got the call today from Dr. Pensak's office stating that my tumor was confirmed to be an acoustic neuroma and completely benign! Praise GOD! We have always felt pretty confident about that but it sure was nice to hear for sure.
The day has been good...I got lots of rest and everyone else did all of my work. That is really new for me but I'm trying to follow rules and allow everyone to help. I am so grateful to have them all helping out because I surely wouldn't be able to do it with them.
So many of you have reached out on my blog and I know I haven't responded to each of you but I've read each and every one of your post. I thank you all so much!!!! The encouragement, support and prayers really keeps me focused and going strong! You all are awesome!
Until tomorrow...good night!
Jen
The day has been good...I got lots of rest and everyone else did all of my work. That is really new for me but I'm trying to follow rules and allow everyone to help. I am so grateful to have them all helping out because I surely wouldn't be able to do it with them.
So many of you have reached out on my blog and I know I haven't responded to each of you but I've read each and every one of your post. I thank you all so much!!!! The encouragement, support and prayers really keeps me focused and going strong! You all are awesome!
Until tomorrow...good night!
Jen
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Home at Last!
Hello everyone...I was able to come home today, thank goodness, and see my wonderful little men. Oh my gosh, I think they've grown since Thursday, lol. The roads were pretty good and it took us a while but we made it safe and sound.
I didn't realize how tired I would get through so after lunch I napped on the couch for a bit (for those of you that know me, I DON'T NAP...so weird but well worth it). Dan ran a few arrands for us and my mom, dad and step father stuck around and hang out with me and watch the boys. Okay so my youngest one, Landon, would not stop touching my head dressing. He would say, "When you gonna take that crazy hat off mommy?" It was to funny, innocent and sweet. After seeing me with for about 30 minuntes or so he was able to go play and not be so preoccupied by it...kids :0)!
I have to share this small story b/c I can't believe what my husband remembers sometimes. I have to take you back to the day that we got the call to see our doctor for the MRI results...Dec. 22. We knew something was wrong b/c I had just had the MRI the morning before so I took my children to a dear friends house, asked Dan if he wanted to meet me at the doctor and started to leave. I had missed a call at home about 30 minutes earlier and decided to make sure it was too important. It was a neurosurgeons office confirming my appointment for Dec. 24th to discuss my MRI. Now I knew something WAS definitely wrong. I dropped the children off w/my friend, whom I was going to have lunch with first but suddendly lost my appetite and called Dan to tell him. He was almost in Tipp (he must of known I was going to need him sooner). I met him the church parking lot and we sat and sat and sat. We had about an hour or more before I was to see my doctor so he says, "You want to eat, walk around, get a coffee...?" I couldn't even think but I had been in Tipp earlier that month to tour the homes and shops for Christmas so I said, "Let's go into this store I told you about and we'll walk around and look at the pottery." That's what we did and he had never been in those shops before so it was fun showing him around (as much fun as one could have at that moment). Anyway, after admiring all of the the sets of pottery, jewelry, collectables etc. we headed out for our appointment where we received our horrible news about my brain tumor (and then not knowing if it was cancer, benign etc.) so it was a pretty crappy day to say the least. Well the point of ALL of this rambling is while Dan was out yesterday he stopped by that shop and got us two new coffee mugs so now we can start our new, happy days tumor free. How cool is that? How does he remember everything? I just love him...he has been such a trooper through all of this...I don't know how I'll ever repay him.
Sorry for the sappy, tomorrow I get this fun, white dressing off of my head...yes!!! I've been trying not to scratch too much under it (Thanks Lynn for the pointers on that) but really it's the pressure on my head that it causes. It really hurts and makes it hard to sleep. So I'm ready, wish me luck tomorrow and as soon as I can get cleaned up and maybe we can post a new picture...if the scare is not too scary.
Love to you all and keep doing God's work...He's awesome and so are you!
Thanks for everything,
Jen
I didn't realize how tired I would get through so after lunch I napped on the couch for a bit (for those of you that know me, I DON'T NAP...so weird but well worth it). Dan ran a few arrands for us and my mom, dad and step father stuck around and hang out with me and watch the boys. Okay so my youngest one, Landon, would not stop touching my head dressing. He would say, "When you gonna take that crazy hat off mommy?" It was to funny, innocent and sweet. After seeing me with for about 30 minuntes or so he was able to go play and not be so preoccupied by it...kids :0)!
I have to share this small story b/c I can't believe what my husband remembers sometimes. I have to take you back to the day that we got the call to see our doctor for the MRI results...Dec. 22. We knew something was wrong b/c I had just had the MRI the morning before so I took my children to a dear friends house, asked Dan if he wanted to meet me at the doctor and started to leave. I had missed a call at home about 30 minutes earlier and decided to make sure it was too important. It was a neurosurgeons office confirming my appointment for Dec. 24th to discuss my MRI. Now I knew something WAS definitely wrong. I dropped the children off w/my friend, whom I was going to have lunch with first but suddendly lost my appetite and called Dan to tell him. He was almost in Tipp (he must of known I was going to need him sooner). I met him the church parking lot and we sat and sat and sat. We had about an hour or more before I was to see my doctor so he says, "You want to eat, walk around, get a coffee...?" I couldn't even think but I had been in Tipp earlier that month to tour the homes and shops for Christmas so I said, "Let's go into this store I told you about and we'll walk around and look at the pottery." That's what we did and he had never been in those shops before so it was fun showing him around (as much fun as one could have at that moment). Anyway, after admiring all of the the sets of pottery, jewelry, collectables etc. we headed out for our appointment where we received our horrible news about my brain tumor (and then not knowing if it was cancer, benign etc.) so it was a pretty crappy day to say the least. Well the point of ALL of this rambling is while Dan was out yesterday he stopped by that shop and got us two new coffee mugs so now we can start our new, happy days tumor free. How cool is that? How does he remember everything? I just love him...he has been such a trooper through all of this...I don't know how I'll ever repay him.
Sorry for the sappy, tomorrow I get this fun, white dressing off of my head...yes!!! I've been trying not to scratch too much under it (Thanks Lynn for the pointers on that) but really it's the pressure on my head that it causes. It really hurts and makes it hard to sleep. So I'm ready, wish me luck tomorrow and as soon as I can get cleaned up and maybe we can post a new picture...if the scare is not too scary.
Love to you all and keep doing God's work...He's awesome and so are you!
Thanks for everything,
Jen
Monday, February 15, 2010
I'm Back!!
Good morning all! Wow what an amazing group of people we have in our lives. You all rock and God heard ALL of those prayers, yippee!
First, before I go any further, I have to give my husband some serious recognition for taking care of my journal. He did a great job...jokes and all! Laughing is the best medicine and if it helped any of you during the waiting I'm sure it was doing the same or more for him. I know it helped me.
He is quite amazing that man of mine. I owe him big. Not only doing an awesome job on the journal, he traveled back in forth, stayed with the kids or at least made sure they were all taking care of and then took care of me. I couldn't ask for a better caregiver, best friend, father to our children and husband. Thank you Dan...you are the best!
As a warning...I'm sure he will sign off of this journal at some point and just know that I have NO control over him and what he might say, lol!
Back to you all...thank you, thank you, thank you for everything. The prayers, the visits, the comments, the support, the meals (I hear my family is being fed very well), the cards and much, much more! You all are the best support group a gal and family could have and I could never express how much you all truly mean to me. You are truly children of God watching over me and my family through his callings and we couldn't be more blessed. Okay I'm starting to cry so I need to move on.
I feel great and I must say, I look pretty darn good even with this head dressing thing on. It is starting to bother me some but I believe I get it off on Wednesday then I'll get to see how much hair is missing : )! Nothing my hair lady can't fix though! They were going to send me home yesterday...I know, I think they've lost their minds but once I mentioned I have 4 wonderful but energetic boys at home they told me to take my time. Don't get my wrong...I can't wait to get home and see them but they're not going to understand quite yet how I'm going to be and I don't want to overdo it and end up back in for something senseless.
Today it is snowing like crazy...I think we're suppose to get 7-10 inches or so in Cincinnati. It looks pretty coming down but I think I'll wait one more day to come home since I'm sure the roads will be messy.
Okay I'm rambling but before I wrap it up I have to personally thank our family. All of our parents and siblings (Dan's side and mine) have been helping us out with the boys so Dan can be with me and that has made this process go even more smoothly. Thank you all so much and I love you all more than you'll ever know.
I'm signing off for now and I thank you all for following this journey and allowing us to share it with you. It means more than you'll ever know.
Love to you all and God Bless (He is the real hero here),
Jen :-)
First, before I go any further, I have to give my husband some serious recognition for taking care of my journal. He did a great job...jokes and all! Laughing is the best medicine and if it helped any of you during the waiting I'm sure it was doing the same or more for him. I know it helped me.
He is quite amazing that man of mine. I owe him big. Not only doing an awesome job on the journal, he traveled back in forth, stayed with the kids or at least made sure they were all taking care of and then took care of me. I couldn't ask for a better caregiver, best friend, father to our children and husband. Thank you Dan...you are the best!
As a warning...I'm sure he will sign off of this journal at some point and just know that I have NO control over him and what he might say, lol!
Back to you all...thank you, thank you, thank you for everything. The prayers, the visits, the comments, the support, the meals (I hear my family is being fed very well), the cards and much, much more! You all are the best support group a gal and family could have and I could never express how much you all truly mean to me. You are truly children of God watching over me and my family through his callings and we couldn't be more blessed. Okay I'm starting to cry so I need to move on.
I feel great and I must say, I look pretty darn good even with this head dressing thing on. It is starting to bother me some but I believe I get it off on Wednesday then I'll get to see how much hair is missing : )! Nothing my hair lady can't fix though! They were going to send me home yesterday...I know, I think they've lost their minds but once I mentioned I have 4 wonderful but energetic boys at home they told me to take my time. Don't get my wrong...I can't wait to get home and see them but they're not going to understand quite yet how I'm going to be and I don't want to overdo it and end up back in for something senseless.
Today it is snowing like crazy...I think we're suppose to get 7-10 inches or so in Cincinnati. It looks pretty coming down but I think I'll wait one more day to come home since I'm sure the roads will be messy.
Okay I'm rambling but before I wrap it up I have to personally thank our family. All of our parents and siblings (Dan's side and mine) have been helping us out with the boys so Dan can be with me and that has made this process go even more smoothly. Thank you all so much and I love you all more than you'll ever know.
I'm signing off for now and I thank you all for following this journey and allowing us to share it with you. It means more than you'll ever know.
Love to you all and God Bless (He is the real hero here),
Jen :-)
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Sunday Night
The progress is amazing. We were able to walk the halls a little bit today. Luckily, Jen had the foresight to pack a robe. So down the hall we hiked in her bright pink robe. With the head gear she had on, she looked like a run-away Energizer Bunny (still going). But unlike the Energizer Bunny, she soon ran out of energy. She’s now back in bed and resting. I’m guessing she’s asleep for the night. I think she was sleeping before 9:00 p.m. on Valentine's night last year too. She's taken "not tonight honey, I have a headache" to whole new level. Show off. Oh well, this year I'll let it slide. It's time for me to head back north before the snow starts to fall here. Until tomorrow…..
Pictures-2
This is a picture from Sunday afternoon. She's out of bed and in the chair. Next up, walking the halls (after we figure out how to close the back of her gown).
Photos
Here are the photos as promised. You may find day one a little unsettling. It shows some facial drop. This photo was taken only two hours after surgery. As you'll notice on day two, the facial drop has gotten better. I can't wait to see what day three brings.
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