Elizabeth's Journey

Wednesday, August 8, 2007

WATCHING OVER ELIZABETH

As Elizabeth and I were talking this morning about ideas to use on this blog today I swear the third bear from the left started to wave it's hand in the air. I'm not kidding. That one right there with the brown nose that's looking right at the camera. Next thing we know all the bears were waving their hands. "OK, OK", Elizabeth and I said, "we can take a hint". Seriously though these loving characters are taking such great care of Elizabeth. Everyone that comes into the room smiles when they see them. They've been lined up on the wall next to the left side of Elizabeth's bed since she came into the hospital. Sometimes one of them goes for a ride with her if she has to leave the room. The two little monkeys in the front are from her nephews Kyle and Josh. How cool is it that these boys actually gave up their favorite stuffed animals for Aunt Elizabeth.

Elizabeth has had a quiet day. Still eating very well but more tired today. Her breathing is a little more labored than yesterday which could be from being so tired. So right now she is napping comfortably and I'm typing away. We're looking forward to her friend Mary coming to visit this afternoon with our new supply of Hagen Daaz Vanilla Bean ice cream. A pint for Elizabeth and a pint for me. Doesn't get any better!

Once again from downtown Syracuse

Sister

Pat

Tuesday, August 7, 2007

ELIZABETH'S WALL

I'm back! Big sister, (hmmm, now that didn't sound too good), ok then how about older sister, (nope, that doesn't work for me), so let's just say that other sister - the one from Maine is back and relieving Jody, et al. I'm staying at the hospital with Elizabeth. The picture I've posted is of her 'wall' - this is what she looks at every moment she is awake. It is filled with cards of encouragement and love from family, friends, community members, and oh yeah, from the Red Sox owner :) There are pictures of her family at all stages of their lives and smack dab in the middle is the framed picture of her at the finish line of her 2005 Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, DC. People at the hospital have told me that they love peeking in this room because it is so interesting and cozy. Elizabeth loves to have her Red Sox blanket displayed on her bed - yep, right here in Yankee Land - her eyes sparkle mischievously as each person comments on the blanket and the rivalry of the teams. After they finish with their comments she zaps them with the existence of the signed baseball. Oh baby, oh baby, how she enjoys that one!

Elizabeth's radiation is completed. She had a very restful night and is doing well so far today. Her appetite is voracious and the motto of the day is: why not eat dessert first! The goal now is to keep her stabilized and comfortable so that she can go home. At this point it might take a couple of U-Haul trucks to move her out of here but everyone is working towards making her wish come true very soon.

Keeping you posted from downtown Syracuse...

The Other Sister

Pat

Monday, August 6, 2007

Rachael's 5K Pan Can Run

Most of you know ET's daughter Rachael - you know, the geeky one with the "grill". Uh... seriously, the sweetest daughter, friend and niece in the world. Rachael is organizing the 1st Annual B'ville Pan Can 5K run - an event to raise money for pancreatic cancer research. Rachael began this endeavor back when ET was battling pancreatic cancer, and she's really put a lot of work into it.

Please help Rachael support this worthwhile cause. Even if you don't run (and I count myself among your number), you can easily walk the 5k. Bring the kids!

Registration is $15 if received by August 30, $19 on the day of the race. To register, complete the form below and mail to Rachael.

Date:
   Saturday, 9/22/2007
Times:
   Registration and Check-in 7:30am - 8:30am
   5k Run Start 9am
   5k Run Walk Start 10am
Age Groups:
   14 and under
   15-19
   20-29
   30-39
   40-49
   50-59
   60 and over (ie: most of my brothers and sisters)

The race will be held at the Van Buren Highway Barn and continue down West Dead Creek Road. If you have any questions or concerns please contact Rachael at the number/address on the registration form.

Let's all support Rachael and ET, and keep the hope alive!

5K Pan Can Run and Fun Walk registration form.

Sunday, August 5, 2007

Team Chandler at the finish line

As Jeff says: "Here is one tired puppy after nearly 200 miles in 2 days." Way to go Caitlin!

I can't tell you how much pride and comfort it brings the family to have Caitlin, Tim and Jeff ride the PMC race in Barbara's memory and for ET's courage and spirit. Someday there WILL be a cure for cancer, and this is how we'll get there. Thank you all for your dedication.

--jimmy

Photos from the race

Here are some photos of Team Chandler members Jeff Moore and his daughter Caitlin. Jeff is a friend of the family, and it would be impossible to describe how much he has done to help us all get through the past two difficult years. For those of you who haven't met Jeff, he is the finest kind. Thanks for riding on behalf of Team Chandler, Jeff and Caitlin!

--jimmy