The chemo isn't working. LeeR's body is destroying his red blood cells. He's tired beyond description and, in his words, "just not having fun." The doctor thinks we have somewhere between "2-3 weeks and, at most, 3 months" left with him in mortality. LeeR asked the doctor yesterday if he thought he could play his alphorn at Swiss Days on August 31 and if he could make it to Christmas. The doctor replied, "I'm not in charge, but Christmas is a long time away." Later when LeeR again asked about Swiss Days, the doctor said, "How much air does that take???" Kami said, "Have you ever seen an alphorn?" The doctor said, "Uh, yes, that's why I asked." Then, "Sure, go right ahead!" And so he will. But, just in case that doesn't work out, Saturday there is a Swiss festival at Sugarhouse park and LeeR is hoping to go and play there with his buddies "impromptu and unscripted." That will most likely need to suffice.
My friend, I'll say it clear
I'll state my case, of which I'm certain
I've lived a life that's full
I traveled each and ev'ry highway
And more, much more than this, I did it my way
 | |
A Life That's Full!
The "after-pictures picture" in the parking lot of the photography studio: the original ten |
I've loved, I've laughed and cried
 | |
| Post-FHE snuggle of relief, thankfulness, exhaustion, tears, and love |
I've had my fill, my share of losing
 |
| THE haircut |
And now, as tears subside, I find it all so amusing
 |
| Mohawk Grandpa |
To think I did all that
And may I say, not in a shy way,
Oh, no, oh, no, not me, I did it my way
Yes, it was my way"
 |
| Our marathon man in one of his marathon shirts--running the marathon of his life HIS way |
Mohawk Grandpa!That's just awesome! And even more awesome is that the grandkids played a part in it! Now they'll have a fun memory to store amidst all the others.
ReplyDeleteLeeR, the teacher, taught everyone a great lesson when he went back to school later in life and obtained his doctorate! He taught his progeny determination and the value of hard work.
Now as he faces life's greatest challenge, once again he teaches us as he shows us how to face such challenges. He teaches us the value of a good life and of a life of good values.
Go, Mohawk Teacher! Yeah!!!
Dixie
You are so cute, Dixie. Here you are fighting your own battle with the big C and yet you are reaching out to us and everyone else, not to mention baking bread for us (yum!) and leading all those adorable primary children. Amazing. Sure love you!
DeleteL o v e L o v e L o v e L o v e L o v e L o v e .
ReplyDeleteThanks, Marsha. I always look forward to your comments--I knew you could relate to the music post. The music in our hearts really does set us free, doesn't it? Thanks for sharing your talents with us. xo
DeleteKaren and LeeR,
ReplyDeleteWhat a tender time for you and your family. Please know that we as a ward are praying for you both for comfort and peace. How wonderful to have the gospel of Jesus Christ in your life during this very difficult time. We love you both and please know that your ward family is ready to do anything they can to be of service. God bless you both.
With Love,
Kent Johnson
Thanks, Kent. We feel so blessed to have this very, very big ward family routing for us--thanks for leading the charge. We feel wrapped in the love of everyone who knows us. "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these, you have done it unto me." We are so blessed to be one of the least of these. Love to you and Celeste!
DeleteI love this family. My heart is full.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Andrea. You are so sweet. Remember our trip to Lake Powell? We are grateful to have you and your family in our life. Please give your parents our love. I hope you are doing well. Karen
DeleteI'm so thankful you had such a wonderful week with all the family around.I'm so thankful for YOU, your strength, your goodness, your example of everything good, your beauty from outside to the inner core. So sad you have to face this ultimate challenge, but you are doing it with the utmost finesse. Thanks for this beautiful blog. I love you!
ReplyDeleteOh, Mary, I could say all the same things about you--what a woman you are! You enriched my life so much in Japan and your influence just goes on and on. I'm so grateful for YOU. Thanks for always being there for me. Love you so much!
DeleteLove you guys. Love this blog and the video. LeeR you are such a great guy. You have a phenomenal family and it was great being your next door neighbor for over four years. Our prayers are with you, Karen and your family.
ReplyDeleteWith love,
Michael & Toni Teig
Thanks so much, Mike and Toni. And thanks, too, for the sweet prayer in sacrament meeting. So tender. Love to you both!
DeleteDear Karen and LeeR,
ReplyDeleteOur hearts are full of love for you.
How we enjoyed our association with you in our
"mission." Your genuine love and concern for others was an inspiration to us.
How wonderful your family could all be together.
We hope LeeR will be comfortable and that both of you will receive the comfort only the Lord can provide.
How hard it is! Your faith, courage, and love for each other are an example to all of us.
You are in our prayers.
Richard and Linda
We think of you so often, Richard and Linda. How we loved the time we got to spend with you--what amazing people you are. No one knows better than the two of you just how hard it is. Thank you for your example of grace through trials. We love you both so much.
ReplyDeleteKaren,
ReplyDeleteWe are thinking of you and your family and so very grateful that we became friends during our "walks". You are absolutely amazing and our prayers are with you.
Bonnie & Kristine