On May 1st, we met with Dad's team of doctors and learned that while his immediate condition was stable and slightly improved, the chemo treatment was not effective and his prognosis was poor. We prayed and took comfort in knowing that all things were in God's hands, but it was still heartbreaking. It was a bit of a shock to us and one of our favourite nurses, Paula. The people working in the ICU were great! They were kind and compassionate and made being in the ICU a little bit easier.
Mark, Kim, Paula and I told Dad what the doctors had shared at the meeting and he was not surprised but rather he was at peace with God's will and decided that no further treatment was necessary. His desire was that he would see Mom one last time on this side of heaven and we began to carefully construct a plan for Mom to come visit Dad, knowing that this would be their last earthly visit. We moved Dad to a new bay as it was a little more private and better for Mom's upcoming visit. Kim and I hung up a picture of Mom and Dad on one of his IV poles so he could see it whenever he was awake. Dad was always thinking about Mom and concerned on how she was doing. We brought video snippets of our visits with Mom daily to show him and he was looking forward to their visit.
While it felt like life stood still, life kept going...a cat scan, science fair, badminton tournament, track & field meet. and the kids outgrowing their clothes, all while we continued our visits with Mom and Dad. There were some gems that popped up this week among the sadness...I was blessed by a gorgeous sunrise while waiting for Alex's bus and surprised to find a $5 American Girl doll at Value Village while shopping for kids' clothes.
Alex's Track & Field
Shotput 3rd Relay 2nd
Found while shopping for kids clothes
Visits with Mom and friends
Mark and I were unable to attend my cousin's wedding as we spent most of our time at the hospital or close by. We thought of Martin & Jamie as they pledged their love to one another and wished them a lifetime of love and happiness.
There was also Grandparent's Day at Carsten and Savannah's school...it was difficult as the kids knew Opa wasn't doing well and Oma wasn't able to come anymore. I was thankful that both of my parents were able to come and Kim's Grandpa, who adopted my kids (we share our family). We are thankful for the christian schools the kids are able to attend and I love that prayer at their schools are a part of their day. I saw this on a board in Carsten's class while I was there taking pictures.
Carsten all dressed up for band
My Mom & Dad
Kim's Grandpa
Opa & Oma's @ Grandparent's Day last year
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