Holding our breath once again....

After radiation therapy, Mike had numerous sores in his mouth.  This was expected and we were not worried.  His last treatment was early January.  In the beginning of March, he still had some persistent sores in his mouth, but the doctors were not alarmed.  Again, they expected this and gave him some anti-fungal medication (for thrush) to help ease the discomfort.  By the end of May, he still had one large sore on the bottom of his tongue.  He was in constant pain and eating was becoming such a painful chore.

We went to an ENT as he was losing hearing in his right ear as well.  Thankfully, he was confident he would be able to help his ear with antibiotics and the also gave him some anti-viral cream for his tongue as well.  He was sure that when we returned for our follow up visit, all would be cleared.  Well, his hearing returned, but his tongue was no better.  We were sent to an Oral Surgeon for a biopsy.  Results came back this week.  It is CANCER.

We are off to Sloan Kettering on Monday.  He will see the surgeon and have a CT Scan of his head and neck to see if any lymph nodes are involved.  At this time, all we know is that he needs surgery.  Hoping to have more answers by Monday afternoon.

The Internet has been a wealth of information, but at the same time, has given me a very realistic view of all the possible outcomes.

Although we are scared, I reminded Mike that we have been to Hell and back so many times, we could give guided tours.  We are about to head back in there, but as long as we are together, I am sure we will find our way out once again.

I am telling everyone I know about Mike's condition.  I believe in the power of prayer.  Please join us as we pray.

Wait, Summer is here??

I guess it is true when they say the older you get, the faster time flies.  I feel like it was just Mother's Day and now we are welcoming Summer!  Need to catch up on a few happenings:

Mother's Day was just delightful.  I cooked for Allison's staff, as I do every Mother's Day.

Then we were off to Michelle's for a wonderful afternoon.  The kids chipped in and presented me with a gift certificate to my favorite nursery.  When I look at all the flowers in front of my house, I am reminded of the love from my children.

My cousins and friends came for a visit one weekend.  We have been vacationing with them annually for 9 years.  This year, we had to cancel due to Mike's illness.  Our vacation buddies were so sweet as they brought along "Flat Angela" and "Flat Mike" and made us a photo album of all our adventures!  Such a lovely gesture.

Our beautiful Ava made her First Communion.  Ally is on the left, Ava on the right, wearing her sister's dress.  Where does the time go?

 

 

We celebrated Bobby's First Birthday in his house in grand style, as only this family can - a "Fiesta!"

 

 



 

This past Sunday we celebrated Father's Day.  Once again, Michelle hosted the gang: good food, good time....  The kids presented Mr. Wonderful with a "Weekend in Atlantic City and dinner at Carmines!"  I think we will schedule that for September and avoid the summer crowds.  Such a nice trip to look forward to...

 

Mike continues to heal and we all continue to count our blessings. 

 

"Here's to Summer and all the memories that this family will create!!"