Wednesday, August 14, 2013
Monday, August 12, 2013
Celebrating a Well Lived Life
Cami Schofield Raymond passed away Sunday morning, August 11, 2013. We remember her best as the most fun, most funny, thoughtful and creative individual. Pictures say 1000 words!
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Planning Our Florida Getaway!
July 13, 2010
That's a good point about Sunday. Thursday-Sunday might be best. My flights next week are only 4.5 hours direct, so hopefully we can all find some that aren't too long. But you will have the furthest to travel, of course.
I'd like to plan it when she'll be feeling her best, but we won't know her chemo schedule for a few more weeks. So if you'd rather try to book things sooner so that we can get cheaper flights, we'll just have to hope that the chemo won't knock her out like the radiation has. Or maybe we'll get lucky and it'll coincide with her schedule anyway.
Caren
July 13, 2010
I just started looked at airfare for the fun of it--just to see how much it would be from San Diego! (anywhere from $280-$500.) Anyway, it's going to take me probably 8 hours to fly across the country (layovers and what-not), and anyone coming from the west side of the country (oh wait, that's all of us), may have flights just as long. So when the heck do we start this thing? I'm thinking (if possible), it would be nice if we all spend Thursday (whether during the day or into the late night) travelling so we can have ALL DAY Friday and Saturday to play. It will take another whole day (at least for me) to travel back home, and I'll probably need to be home by Sunday night, just so we don't have to pay for another day of daycare (we don't have family or friends who can just watch our kids all day while Trent is at work--he doesn't have sick or vacation benefits either) But I'm sure Shauna (my day-care friend) will give me a good deal and only charge me maybe $75 a day for both girls (plus they'll have to pick up Cory from school for me.)
Anyway, if we're there on a Sunday, it won't be very fun because we won't be able to go to spas or shopping or anything, so should we just spend Sunday travelling back home?
I mean, if this doesn't work, we could all arrive sometime Friday, and spend all day Saturday and Sunday with each other and all return home on Monday, I guess. I just think it would be more fun if the two days we had together weren't a day where we're all trying hard to find a ward nearby, not spend money, etc.
I just started looking into the actual logistics of this (the boring part) and started to think about it. Let me know what ya'll think!!
Karen
July 12, 2010
Daytona is on the Atlantic side, so instead of the oil spill, you may get a hurricane.
Stephanie.
July 12, 2010
I don't know, but marriage and kids don't really support an IMF lifestyle. At least, I am never as willing to be ridiculous as I am with the Goodheads! I will say that Kan-it's image of oil-slick vampires is taking the IMF thing to a whole new level! Though I think we'll be on the Atlantic side not the Gulf side, so I think we'll be okay. But I haven't even checked a map, so what do I know?
Caren
July, 12, 2010
Karen says, "Is this why most of us didn't get married until we left BYU and moved away from each other so we wouldn't scare away potential mates?" (with the exception of Andy, of course) Does this mean Andy has more ability to be truly stupid and accept all of us for who we truly are??
K
July 12, 2010
Oh my gosh you guys are too funny! Can we all go to Florida every month? You can find me at the Orlando Airport wearing my IMF outfit, blueberry pie in my teeth, AND my Twilight sparkle skin spray. And I'm all for the beach. Is the oil spill heading toward Orlando? If it is, that will still be OK. We can dip in the water and then we'll look like sparkly black IMF Vampires. I'll bring the fangs and the guns. And from now on you can refer to me as Kan-It (short for Kannette)
Kan-It out
That's a good point about Sunday. Thursday-Sunday might be best. My flights next week are only 4.5 hours direct, so hopefully we can all find some that aren't too long. But you will have the furthest to travel, of course.
I'd like to plan it when she'll be feeling her best, but we won't know her chemo schedule for a few more weeks. So if you'd rather try to book things sooner so that we can get cheaper flights, we'll just have to hope that the chemo won't knock her out like the radiation has. Or maybe we'll get lucky and it'll coincide with her schedule anyway.
Caren
July 13, 2010
I just started looked at airfare for the fun of it--just to see how much it would be from San Diego! (anywhere from $280-$500.) Anyway, it's going to take me probably 8 hours to fly across the country (layovers and what-not), and anyone coming from the west side of the country (oh wait, that's all of us), may have flights just as long. So when the heck do we start this thing? I'm thinking (if possible), it would be nice if we all spend Thursday (whether during the day or into the late night) travelling so we can have ALL DAY Friday and Saturday to play. It will take another whole day (at least for me) to travel back home, and I'll probably need to be home by Sunday night, just so we don't have to pay for another day of daycare (we don't have family or friends who can just watch our kids all day while Trent is at work--he doesn't have sick or vacation benefits either) But I'm sure Shauna (my day-care friend) will give me a good deal and only charge me maybe $75 a day for both girls (plus they'll have to pick up Cory from school for me.)
Anyway, if we're there on a Sunday, it won't be very fun because we won't be able to go to spas or shopping or anything, so should we just spend Sunday travelling back home?
I mean, if this doesn't work, we could all arrive sometime Friday, and spend all day Saturday and Sunday with each other and all return home on Monday, I guess. I just think it would be more fun if the two days we had together weren't a day where we're all trying hard to find a ward nearby, not spend money, etc.
I just started looking into the actual logistics of this (the boring part) and started to think about it. Let me know what ya'll think!!
Karen
July 12, 2010
Daytona is on the Atlantic side, so instead of the oil spill, you may get a hurricane.
Stephanie.
July 12, 2010
I don't know, but marriage and kids don't really support an IMF lifestyle. At least, I am never as willing to be ridiculous as I am with the Goodheads! I will say that Kan-it's image of oil-slick vampires is taking the IMF thing to a whole new level! Though I think we'll be on the Atlantic side not the Gulf side, so I think we'll be okay. But I haven't even checked a map, so what do I know?
Caren
July, 12, 2010
Karen says, "Is this why most of us didn't get married until we left BYU and moved away from each other so we wouldn't scare away potential mates?" (with the exception of Andy, of course) Does this mean Andy has more ability to be truly stupid and accept all of us for who we truly are??
K
July 12, 2010
Oh my gosh you guys are too funny! Can we all go to Florida every month? You can find me at the Orlando Airport wearing my IMF outfit, blueberry pie in my teeth, AND my Twilight sparkle skin spray. And I'm all for the beach. Is the oil spill heading toward Orlando? If it is, that will still be OK. We can dip in the water and then we'll look like sparkly black IMF Vampires. I'll bring the fangs and the guns. And from now on you can refer to me as Kan-It (short for Kannette)
Kan-It out
Monday, July 12, 2010
Planning our Florida getaway!
Sunday, June 11, 2010
Yes, yes and more yes!! Yes invite Crystal and Cori and if they both can come... great! We should all change our names to start with a "K" or "C" sound. So since Cannette and Cephanie (which would have to actually be spelled with a 'K' so we don't get it confused with a soft 'C') won't miss out on the fun, we'll include them in the fun name game. Or we could just call them Kevin or Karl or Hank.
I am definitely up for the beach idea and renting a car together. We could all attempt to fly in on or around the same time obviously. We could just kind of look for each other... like look for the person with food in their teeth. I prefer cooked spinach or blueberry pie. Or better yet, just come dressed in your IMF outfits. However black leather with black sunglasses would totally camouflage you in an airport so be sure to have food in your teeth as well.
I am OK with weekend or during the week - no date or time constraints on my end. We may be driven by which days have cheaper airfare, too. OK, I just peed my pants with excitement so got to go...dribble, dribble, dribble.
Christy, or Kristy - that will be my code name
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Wow! Stephanie knows how to deliver!
A weekend would be easiest for me to get away, but if it makes a difference on resort availability then we could try to make it work. Andrew's going to be trying to work from home as much as possible while I'm in FL next week, so that will give us an idea of whether getting away in the week would work or not. (I'm a little scared that it won't go as well as he's hoping it will!)
I suspect that they won't know Cami's chemo schedule until the end of the month at the earliest. But if you can reserve some dates and cancel without penalty, that might be a good way to go. I would prefer later in September or even October so that it's not as hot. And we'll be making a trip to OR in mid-October, so that time wouldn't work for me, but it sounds like the availability is for beginning or end anyway.
You are so awesome to do this, Stephanie! I'm not sure how these time share things work, but I suspect there is some sacrifice on your part involved and I really appreciate your generosity!
Can't wait to hear what the rest of you think!
Caren
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Hi girls,
Man, I don't read emails for 24 hours and I'm way behind. Okay, first, the more Schofields the better. Especially Cory (sp? . .); she was the first to connect with Christy, and as long as any of the sisters can have food in their teeth without feeling like idiots, then we welcome them all!
Daytona Beach is the only other WorldMark in Florida. It is about an hour northeast of Orlando -- and the resort is RIGHT ON THE BEACH!!!!!!! If Cami is able to travel in a car for about 2 hours from her home, then I vote for a beach resort. (This would fit perfectly into Karen's definition of how to relax.) They have a huge resort there with the work out rooms, huge pools, lazy river, etc. etc. Not to mention, HELLO, the beach! And warm ocean water. . . . They also have 3 bedroom condos -- which we will need, and there is more availability and better chance of getting something than in Orlando. There will be tons of availability if we go on the week of a hurricane. . . . Okay, we'll pray for no hurricanes when we go.
We can rent a van from the Orlando airport and all drive together. (Are you about to pee your pants with excitement???) We'll have a Twilight Festival. I'll bring the movies and the sparkly skin spray paint -- after all, we'll be in the sun and we'll need to sparkle. Annette can bring the bags and bags of Lindor Lindt Truffles, then we'll go run a marathon with Christy and Caren (can you pull me in a wagon, or would you prefer a double stroller??) Then Karen can show us the proper way to shop and lay on the beach for the best tanning effect -- as long as we don't wash off our sparkles. We'll take 3 million pictures and laugh until we burn off all the chocolate.
Let us know if it has to be a weekend or if weekdays would be okay. . . (children, babies, husbands, work, blah blah blah) My Travel Agent informs me that he will keep his eye on the availability, and as soon as we have some dates, we will book as soon as we can. By the way, it will be free. We will use our credits to book this, so we only pay a maid fee for the time we are there -- maybe 10 bucks per person. Hmmm. Free. Bring on the sparkles! As of right now, on the availability for condos, there are openings from Sept. 11- Oct. 9; there is also some at the end of October starting the 26th. We haven't looked into November yet, but could check that out if we needed to. Caren, let us know when the Raymonds know Cami's chemo schedule. In fact, we could just book two different times right now to guarantee that we can get a condo, and then cancel whichever one we don't use, once we find out Cami's schedule.
So, everyone be in touch! Love ya,
Stephanie
Sunday, July 11, 2010
I'm totally fine with including more Shovels! I know the condos that we've stayed in in the past can sleep up to 6 adults. (Two bedrooms, plus a pull-out bed in the living room. Steph, do any of those condos have accommodations for 8? Or would we have to get 2 rooms?
Karen
Sunday, July 11, 2010
So far it is a surprise. If it becomes necessary to tell her, then we will. But for now we're trying to keep it under wraps. Though based on past history, if she gets suspicious then we can't count on Doug to resist spilling the beans. :)
That's generous of you to be willing to include two more Schofields. Then we would totally be tied 4-4! :) How does everyone else feel? Be honest! I won't go forward unless it's okay with everyone! And really, I won't be offended no matter what!
Caren
Jul 10, 2010, at 10:54 PM
I'm melting into my chair just thinking about the beautiful picture Trent painted for us (with Karen's approval). And I think it would be perfect to invite more Schofield girls. Now, are we keeping all of this a surprise from Cami? I just want that clarified so I don't say anything to her if I'm not supposed to. I'm assuming we are since we're not including her in all this fun email planning!
Annette
July 10, 2010
Christy, you can be in charge of spontaneous fun, particularly if it involves a
healthy dose of silliness!
Cori is in WA and would probably love to be included if she didn't think she was
party-crashing. That's nice of you to think of her. If the rest of you don't mind, I can invite her. It's true that she and Christy formed the very first Goodman-Schofield connection! (Well, I guess she and Michelle, but Michelle wasn't technically a Goodman yet.)
My sister Crystal would also probably love to be invited. Normally I wouldn't ask, but under the circumstances.... She's the one who backed into your car during my wedding, Annette. Heh heh. She's totally cool and easy-going and wouldn't detract at all from our fun. (I wouldn't even suggest otherwise.) BUT I can understand if you just want to keep it to the Madison 13 girls. And if we had any guarantees that Cami had lots of time left, it wouldn't even cross my mind to expand the circle a little.
Be honest how you feel. I totally understand and my feelings won't be hurt if you'd
rather not. I won't say anything to either one of them without the go-ahead from the rest of you. But rest assured that they are both as awesome as Cami and I, if perhaps more laid back and easy to get along with!
Man, it must be from all this planning but last night I had a dream that I was a single college student. I'm so glad that we can still enjoy the best part of that (our friendship) without having to do the rest!! :)
Caren
On Jul 10, 2010, at 7:43 AM
Oh my gosh...I don't read emails for 24 hours and this is what I get?!
My vote is Aye! for Annette planning, Steph assist in obtaining accommodations, Karen in charge of shopping and pedicure/massage arrangements, Caren in charge of non-caloric feasting of delectable vittles, Cami in charge of fun, relaxing love from her BFF's, and Christy in charge of ....gosh, what is there left to be in charge of? Regardless of time, date or location count me in. In the meantime, maybe I'll look up some cheap plane tickets.
Caren...what is Cori's status and location? Any chance to bring her along,too? FYI (for my sisters) Cori was Michelle's roommate when she was engaged to Eric and introduced me to the wonderful world of Riddle and Schofield Mania.
Keep us posted...Christy out.
July 10, 2010
Hey, it's got my vote! And I'm pretty sure calories don't exist during a weekend like that, right?
I'm all about everyone going home to their families feeling relaxed and refreshed! When was the last time I felt that way??
Caren
July 10, 2010
This is Trent. It's my time to chime in. Karen's perfect idea of a G/S vacation is to SLEEP IN, get up at 9 (even 8 o'clock would be sleeping in for her now) and make a fancy breakfast all together. After that, it's off to the spa for Mani-Pedi's or massage or whatever pleases the female body and mind. Then it's back to the condo for a good nap/laugh/chat/frivolous TV time. After all that fun stuff, a short shopping trip to buy something totally unnecessary (like matching bright green or orange (Karen says that orange is a totally unacceptable color and she can't even joke about it so she mandates I change it to YELLOW or PURPLE) purses and then hit Outback Steakhouse for dinner. After dinner, it's off to the workout center so you can return to the condo with gallons of double chocolate fudge ice cream while you partake in the extended edition Twilight marathon. (or some other girl power marathon) Now granted that this might be too much for one day, but things can be spread over 3 days, or repeated each day. Whatever is best for female relaxation.
Just my two cents...
Trent
PS "Yes, I approve you this message"
July 10, 2010
She's not actually in a town, but here's her address so you can look it up.
5790 Deer Park Rd.
St. Cloud, FL 34773
It's a huge ranch that constitutes this big blank spot on the map. I'm pretty sure she has said they are about an hour from Orlando. But they're pretty much an hour from any civilization, so I'm not sure if that helps. Driving shouldn't be a big deal for her, though, so I don't think we have to limit it just to the Orlando area if we don't want to. (It's just the greater effort -- and exposure -- of flying that is the concern.)
I, for one, will need to bring Aksel, so I'm all about keeping it simple and nice and relaxing! (When was the last time any of us really relaxed??) And of course the biggest treat and entertainment will be being all together!
Thanks for rising to the challenge, Annette! :)
Caren
Annette, we're emailing at the same time! I'm fine with Orlando, or I'm fine with something else if you find a quaint little hamlet somewhere with cuckoo clocks and.....oh wait, wrong country. :) Caren
July 10, 2010
So should we just plan on staying in Orlando and doing the Orlando thing? that would be great with me!
Annette
July 10, 2010
"maybe we should put her in charge of deciding where to go in FL. :) All in favor, say aye! :)"
Aye! . . .let me know if you have any requests. Of course DisneyWorld is a great and easy option. I would have to look on a map and know where Cami acutally is to see what other possiblities there would be. Caren what town is she in?
I don't know about Domestic flights but International flight prices were a lot cheaper starting the day after Labor Day and it will start getting a little cooler down there the longer we wait. But of course what is most important is what will work best for Cami.
Steph when you can, let me know of all the possible resort locations we could use that are "near" Cami.
Annette
Oh, that would be really cool! Thanks, Steph!
Caren
Jul 9, 2010, at 8:09 PM
There is a WorldMark Condo in Orlando, and Sept-Oct. might be off-season, so we might be able to get something for a few nights there. I'll put my travel agent (aka: Zach) on it, and see what he comes up with-- just for starters. We'lll get into specifics once we have some dates to work with. . . .
I love you all!!!
Stephanie
July 9, 2010
She'll have radiation through the 26th of this month. Sometime after that she'll
start chemo. Hopefully her symptoms will be mild, because I guess this is a regimen
she'll have to do for the rest of her life. Once a month she'll have a bone treatment thing. She's only done it once and it put her out of commission for a few days. So if we can time it to be on her off week for chemo and then before she has her monthly bone whatever-you-call-it, that will give her the best chance of feeling well. Since we won't know what that schedule will be until she starts the chemo (I'm assuming in August), then we're probably looking at later into September (or maybe even October) by the time we get tickets and stuff. Hopefully that will be a cheaper time to fly and we can get good deals! And if it's too much of a burden, Karen, I am fine with pitching in too!
Doug is happy with pitching in for hotel costs or whatever. Since Annette is our travel guru (I always felt wistful reading about your trips in Germany!), maybe we should put her in charge of deciding where to go in FL. :) All in favor, say aye! :)
Caren
July 9, 2010
Of course whatever is best for Cami, is what we'll do! It sounds good to wait for her system and see what she can handle sometime after Labor Day. Who knows--maybe by then our student loans will have come!
We will just have to make it work and find a way for me to get to Flordia!
Karen
July 9, 2010
Speaking of blabbering, you're hearing from me again! I just got off the phone with
Doug. Cami's having a pretty rough day and he's rethinking the wisdom of having her fly anywhere. I know we wouldn't do it until after she was done with radiation, but he's worried that she won't be up for something like a plane ride for a long time. And who knows what her immune system will be able to handle.
So, Karen, I know that you were excited about the thought of doing something close
to home, but it sounds like it might be best if we all went out there. Then in a few
years when she's healthy as a horse and this is all just a distant memory, SHE can be the one to fly! :) Let's not plan on Labor Day. Let's wait and see what her chemo and bone infusion treatment schedule will be like so we can time it so she's feeling her best. I'll be going out there in a week or so to help get her through the last of her radiation treatment, so hopefully we can make more firm plans then.
Does that sound good? Thanks for being flexible!
Caren
July 9, 1010
I think it would be a great idea if we could stay in one of Shaw's condo's (Steph,
wouldn't it only be like $40 a night or something?) Theere's a World Mark in Oceanside that I know Shaws have stayed at (halfway between LA and San Diego), and so that would be a cool place to go! There's also a couple in Las Vegas--I've stayed in both. They're all so nice and very resort-y. Although I do know holiday weekends (like Labor Day) fill up months or even a year in advance, so I don't know if she could get one of those for us. Those places (or somewhere in AZ) would be really nice for me because then I could just drive there and not have to worry about buying a plane ticket (or putting everyone out and chipping in to buy me one!) Of course I would be very appreciative and take the plane ticket if people helped me out a little, but if there's a way around that, then at least it would save money.
Also, the Friday before Labor Day is my wedding anniversary (Sept. 3), so Trent would probably be slightly bummed at that if I was taking off--BUT, it would be fine, of course. We would celebrate the week before, or something. I mean, we do that all the time when our actual anniversary lands around a vacation or whatever. (We did get married on a weekend holiday, after all!)
Okay, so this is so fun to think about! I mean, not the reason why we would all get
together, but at the same time, it's so fun! It would be the most fun weekend I've had since August 2006 when Trent and I went on our cruise (the last time I was able to get away wihout any kids for more than 24 hours. Oh yeah, except for last November when we came here for a couple days to look for a place to live. But that was anything but relaxing. Talk about stress! We were so frantic and busy trying to see as many apartments and houses as possible that we even ran out of gas because we never had time to stop and get any!
Okay, enough blabbering. I'm out.
Karen
July 9, 2010
I love supportive husbands! Thanks, Frank!
I totally agree about doing it sooner rather than later. I was wondering if everyone
has Labor Day plans yet or not. We could do it later if we need more time to plan, but that's a nice three-day weekend. She lives about an hour from Orlando, so there's all that Disney World resort stuff there. It would be more expensive, but oh so fun!
Doug supports the idea and said it might make more sense for her to come out here
where the rest of us are instead of all of us going there. I agree with one reservation -- how to avoid sending the wrong message to my family who may be irritated that she came all the way out here but didn't go the rest of the way to see them. So in some ways it would be best if we went somewhere else to avoid family politics. I mean, I can totally understand why they would feel that way, but that is one drawback to her coming out here. Not that it's all your problem, though, so I'll just have to work it out!
Some of the variables to consider. After she's done with radiation then she'll start
chemotherapy. It won't be as heavy as what she did before, but it can still make her sick and she won't know until she's on it how it'll affect her. I think it'll be a 2 weeks on 1 week off thing, so we might want to plan it for one of her off weeks, which might eliminate Labor Day. And that might eliminate her ability to travel, I just don't know yet. We'll just have to wait and see.
I really appreciate that you are all so willing to make this happen. I know it's a
sacrifice (Annette, I had to laugh at your comment about spry 60's), and there's always a chance that she'll pull through and have lots of years ahead of her. But I know it will mean a lot to her and I think it's one of those instances where we can't always assume there will be a Tomorrow and a Someday.
Oh, I can't remember if I mentioned this already, but Doug also said that things are
coming together for the position in CA if it comes to that. But he's not sure on timing, and I get the feeling it might not happen until after Annette leaves the country. (Annette, I'm sorry Frank is gone, but I am happy that it means you're not in Germany right now!)
So, a couple of things I'm wondering. If Cami can travel, any ideas about where to
go? I know Karen lives in a popular tourist place. What about you Arizonans? Or should we go somewhere different for all of us? Stephanie, is there any chance you can get a deal through your time share thing (without messing up plans for your family to use it, of course)? Would you all be interested in trying to make something work for Labor Day, or would you prefer not to do it on a holiday weekend? Just trying to get all options on the table, so if you have any ideas, please share!
Caren
Jul 9, 2010, at 1:14 AM
Before I even read any of the emails talking about getting together I talked to
Frank and told him the news about Cami and the first thing he said was, "Do you need
to take a trip to Florida?" Wherever we meet it needs to happen and I think a few
of us are rich enough to pitch in for Karen getting wherever we decide to meet. Does Cami live anywhere near a nice little resort that we could go to in case she is too sick to travel far? And we can't put it off very long. I leave the states in December/Jan. and won't be back until next summer.
I pretty much would be able to leave any time. I would just need enough time
to make arrangements for the boys. Mom and Dad wouldn't be able to do it on their own with all three boys. They're not in their spry 60's anymore!
Annette
July 9, 2010
Karen, I totally understand, and I was going to mention earlier that I know your situation is a little different and don't feel at all bad if you can't make it work. Who knows? Maybe they will move West after all and we can do it a little closer to home! Or maybe she'll want to come out here for a fun weekend. I don't know, we're just in the talking phase. But I've emailed Doug to see what he thinks. I'll let you know!
Caren
Thu, Jul 8, 2010 at 3:29 PM
Of course I would love to all get together. If only money grew on trees..... Well, if Trent's student loans will finally come in (we've been waiting for them for about a month), then I think we should have enough for me to go. But until then, well, let's just say, does anyone have a few hundred dollars lying around this month so we can buy groceries? (We don't receive Food Stamps anymore.
Karen
July 8, 2010
I have told Cami that I told you four and of course she didn't mind. I haven't talked to her about getting together yet. I thought I'd check with Doug first and see if we should plan something or just surprise her.
As far as moving to the West is concerned, apparently there is some talk about transferring him out to Chico, CA where his former boss is now. But they aren't anxious to do anything too hasty yet. They make it sound like as soon as they're ready they can go, but I don't know if it's really that simple or not. And I'm hoping they won't wait until she's on her deathbed before deciding!
She keeps saying she can't do a move right now because they are way anxious about her spine and don't want her doing any lifting or anything like that. But I don't know if that will ever improve or not or if that will just be the new norm. And there are certainly plenty of people who would step in to help so she didn't have to lift a finger!
Well, if you guys are all good with trying to get together -- especially while Annette is in the country -- I'll talk to Doug and see what he thinks and if we should make it a surprise or involve her from the beginning.
Love you girls!
Caren
Wed, Jul 7, 2010 at 5:51 PM
I have sat on the emails Caren has sent for a few hours and can't seem to shake the feeling of how much Cami needs us right now. (Maybe it is just that I need Cami right now, I don't know). I have kept reminiscing on so many fabulous memories and good feelings that I think getting together is an inspired thought. Caren, have you talked to Cami about all of this and does she know that you have let all the Goodman's know about her? I agree with Steph that if she is up for it after her treatments, let's all get together. Is Doug's work/school situation such that they could move back West. Heck, I would go to the east coast to see her if her situation doesn't allow her to come out West. Please continue to keep us posted and let us know if she is OK to get in the loop on these emails, too.
Thanks and lots of love, Christy
Date: Wed, 7 Jul 2010 17:10:58
"Sometimes life just makes me want to scream -- and if you're going to scream, it might as well be with berry pie or chocolate stuck in your teeth -- surrounded by a bunch of girl friends!!"
Best quote ever!!
Caren
Wed, Jul 7, 2010 at 5:01 PM
Oh my gosh: I would fly or drive anywhere and do anything to have a G-S Reunion. I can't believe that you have only seen Cami twice in the past 5 years!! Let's see what happens with her treatments in the next few weeks, and then start making plans to ALL get together. Sometimes life just makes me want to scream -- and if you're going to scream, it might as well be with berry pie or chocolate stuck in your teeth -- surrounded by a bunch of girl friends!!
Life is too short, live hard, laugh long, and love. . .
Stephanie
Wed, Jul 7, 2010 at 11:49 AM
The doctor was optimistic when talking about the bone cancer. But I don't think he's so optimistic now about the brain tumors. The radiation guy was really encouraging them to move back to be close to family, which they interpreted as meaning, "You don't have a lot of time left." She has three weeks of radiation and then they should have a better idea from how she responds to the treatment. For now no one is talking in definitive life expectancy terms, but Cami said the survival rate is only something like 80%.
The hardest thing for me right now is having her so far away. I have only seen her twice in the last five years, and it's hard not to feel bitter about her spending the last years of her life so far away. I feel so helpless to do anything, even just trying to mourn and suffer with her because I can't be in the trenches with her. Her neighbors and ward are doing a great job of filling in without family around, but it is still so frustrating for the rest of us who can't be there.
I'm thinking maybe we should have a Goodman-Schofield reunion while Annette is in the States. Could your families spare you all for a weekend? Just a thought. Something that occurred to me just now. One thing I've learned is that we need to make more time for the people who matter while we have time. Cami didn't come to OR in the spring for my grandpa's funeral. Not because she couldn't, but because Doug had some issues with it and she stayed to keep the peace. In hindsight, you can believe they wish they had done that differently. Well, gotta run to Aksel's two month appt. I'll let you know as I hear more in the coming weeks as her treatment progresses. Hopefully it'll be good news next time!
Thanks for your prayers and support!
Caren
Jul 7, 2010, at 12:28 AM
Thank you Caren for letting us know. It would be nice to know on what grounds her Doctor could be optomistic. I agree with your assessment. Michelle's Doctor was doing the same thing until finally I talked to the nurse who would call the house frequently to get updates and see how Michelle was responding to treatments etc. I told the nurse that the Doctor kept saying Michelle was not terminal but we all couldn't see how it could be anything else. She had just gotten so bad we couldn't even imagine her body ever healing from where it was. After that visit is when everyone let reality be discussed and plans were made based on what the reality was and we could all start the journey and the process of what that meant and plan accordingly. My heart hurts so bad right now. I will certainly keep all of you in my prayers for peace and guidance and tender mercies to be poured out onto all of you.
Annette
Tuesday, July 6, 2010, 9:59 PM
Oh, that's good to know. I didn't know if she had been bcc'ing you guys on some of her emails or not.
I'm sure I'll get a lot of details wrong, but I'll just try to give you the short version. About a month or so ago a routine test showed some elevated tumor markers, and a follow-up bone scan showed that the breast cancer has metastasized and spread to her bones. It's all throughout her skeletal system. That was a pretty big shock, but then her oncologist was very optimistic and put things in perspective. The treatment will be no picnic, but won't be as hard on her as it was last time. She will have to do it for the rest of her life, but there was no reason to think in the short term.
Then she had some MRI's done and they found it in her brain. She has at least a dozen tumors in her brain, two if which are at least an inch in diameter. They got this news just a week ago and she started radiation today. I don't think I need to tell you guys that her odds for survival don't look good. She remains hopeful, though, so we'll see. In the meantime, they have explored some options for moving back to the West if it becomes imperative, but are taking a wait-and-see approach right now. I can't even tell you how much I hate them being so far away where none of us can help!
Anyway, it's been a pretty emotional and stressful couple of weeks. She continues with her good humor -- which is amplified by a steroid she's taking that makes her a bit intense! -- and to just talk to her you would think there's nothing to be worked up about. But considering that I don't know anyone who has survived once cancer spreads to their brain, it sure seems like the odds are against her.
Anyway, I just thought you four should know. I'm sure she would want you to know and probably would have said something earlier if she had been able to think straight the past few weeks. If you can keep her and Doug and their family in your prayers, that would be great. Even if it just means that they move closer to family so she doesn't spend the last months or years of her life in some swamp on the opposite side of the country, that would be a definite tender mercy!
Love,
Caren
Jul 6, 2010, at 10:07 PM
Hey Caren,
I don't remember reading anything about Cami's health recently. I even went back to check emails to make sure. So what is going on??
Let us know. We love you back!
Stephanie
Mon, Jul 5, 2010 at 2:37 AM
Hey girls - I assume that Cami has updated you guys about her recent resurgence of cancer. But just in case, I thought I'd check and make sure. I won't go into it all now if she already has. But let me know if she hasn't because I know she would want you to know!
Love you girls bad!
Caren
Yes, yes and more yes!! Yes invite Crystal and Cori and if they both can come... great! We should all change our names to start with a "K" or "C" sound. So since Cannette and Cephanie (which would have to actually be spelled with a 'K' so we don't get it confused with a soft 'C') won't miss out on the fun, we'll include them in the fun name game. Or we could just call them Kevin or Karl or Hank.
I am definitely up for the beach idea and renting a car together. We could all attempt to fly in on or around the same time obviously. We could just kind of look for each other... like look for the person with food in their teeth. I prefer cooked spinach or blueberry pie. Or better yet, just come dressed in your IMF outfits. However black leather with black sunglasses would totally camouflage you in an airport so be sure to have food in your teeth as well.
I am OK with weekend or during the week - no date or time constraints on my end. We may be driven by which days have cheaper airfare, too. OK, I just peed my pants with excitement so got to go...dribble, dribble, dribble.
Christy, or Kristy - that will be my code name
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Wow! Stephanie knows how to deliver!
A weekend would be easiest for me to get away, but if it makes a difference on resort availability then we could try to make it work. Andrew's going to be trying to work from home as much as possible while I'm in FL next week, so that will give us an idea of whether getting away in the week would work or not. (I'm a little scared that it won't go as well as he's hoping it will!)
I suspect that they won't know Cami's chemo schedule until the end of the month at the earliest. But if you can reserve some dates and cancel without penalty, that might be a good way to go. I would prefer later in September or even October so that it's not as hot. And we'll be making a trip to OR in mid-October, so that time wouldn't work for me, but it sounds like the availability is for beginning or end anyway.
You are so awesome to do this, Stephanie! I'm not sure how these time share things work, but I suspect there is some sacrifice on your part involved and I really appreciate your generosity!
Can't wait to hear what the rest of you think!
Caren
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Hi girls,
Man, I don't read emails for 24 hours and I'm way behind. Okay, first, the more Schofields the better. Especially Cory (sp? . .); she was the first to connect with Christy, and as long as any of the sisters can have food in their teeth without feeling like idiots, then we welcome them all!
Daytona Beach is the only other WorldMark in Florida. It is about an hour northeast of Orlando -- and the resort is RIGHT ON THE BEACH!!!!!!! If Cami is able to travel in a car for about 2 hours from her home, then I vote for a beach resort. (This would fit perfectly into Karen's definition of how to relax.) They have a huge resort there with the work out rooms, huge pools, lazy river, etc. etc. Not to mention, HELLO, the beach! And warm ocean water. . . . They also have 3 bedroom condos -- which we will need, and there is more availability and better chance of getting something than in Orlando. There will be tons of availability if we go on the week of a hurricane. . . . Okay, we'll pray for no hurricanes when we go.
We can rent a van from the Orlando airport and all drive together. (Are you about to pee your pants with excitement???) We'll have a Twilight Festival. I'll bring the movies and the sparkly skin spray paint -- after all, we'll be in the sun and we'll need to sparkle. Annette can bring the bags and bags of Lindor Lindt Truffles, then we'll go run a marathon with Christy and Caren (can you pull me in a wagon, or would you prefer a double stroller??) Then Karen can show us the proper way to shop and lay on the beach for the best tanning effect -- as long as we don't wash off our sparkles. We'll take 3 million pictures and laugh until we burn off all the chocolate.
Let us know if it has to be a weekend or if weekdays would be okay. . . (children, babies, husbands, work, blah blah blah) My Travel Agent informs me that he will keep his eye on the availability, and as soon as we have some dates, we will book as soon as we can. By the way, it will be free. We will use our credits to book this, so we only pay a maid fee for the time we are there -- maybe 10 bucks per person. Hmmm. Free. Bring on the sparkles! As of right now, on the availability for condos, there are openings from Sept. 11- Oct. 9; there is also some at the end of October starting the 26th. We haven't looked into November yet, but could check that out if we needed to. Caren, let us know when the Raymonds know Cami's chemo schedule. In fact, we could just book two different times right now to guarantee that we can get a condo, and then cancel whichever one we don't use, once we find out Cami's schedule.
So, everyone be in touch! Love ya,
Stephanie
Sunday, July 11, 2010
I'm totally fine with including more Shovels! I know the condos that we've stayed in in the past can sleep up to 6 adults. (Two bedrooms, plus a pull-out bed in the living room. Steph, do any of those condos have accommodations for 8? Or would we have to get 2 rooms?
Karen
Sunday, July 11, 2010
So far it is a surprise. If it becomes necessary to tell her, then we will. But for now we're trying to keep it under wraps. Though based on past history, if she gets suspicious then we can't count on Doug to resist spilling the beans. :)
That's generous of you to be willing to include two more Schofields. Then we would totally be tied 4-4! :) How does everyone else feel? Be honest! I won't go forward unless it's okay with everyone! And really, I won't be offended no matter what!
Caren
Jul 10, 2010, at 10:54 PM
I'm melting into my chair just thinking about the beautiful picture Trent painted for us (with Karen's approval). And I think it would be perfect to invite more Schofield girls. Now, are we keeping all of this a surprise from Cami? I just want that clarified so I don't say anything to her if I'm not supposed to. I'm assuming we are since we're not including her in all this fun email planning!
Annette
July 10, 2010
Christy, you can be in charge of spontaneous fun, particularly if it involves a
healthy dose of silliness!
Cori is in WA and would probably love to be included if she didn't think she was
party-crashing. That's nice of you to think of her. If the rest of you don't mind, I can invite her. It's true that she and Christy formed the very first Goodman-Schofield connection! (Well, I guess she and Michelle, but Michelle wasn't technically a Goodman yet.)
My sister Crystal would also probably love to be invited. Normally I wouldn't ask, but under the circumstances.... She's the one who backed into your car during my wedding, Annette. Heh heh. She's totally cool and easy-going and wouldn't detract at all from our fun. (I wouldn't even suggest otherwise.) BUT I can understand if you just want to keep it to the Madison 13 girls. And if we had any guarantees that Cami had lots of time left, it wouldn't even cross my mind to expand the circle a little.
Be honest how you feel. I totally understand and my feelings won't be hurt if you'd
rather not. I won't say anything to either one of them without the go-ahead from the rest of you. But rest assured that they are both as awesome as Cami and I, if perhaps more laid back and easy to get along with!
Man, it must be from all this planning but last night I had a dream that I was a single college student. I'm so glad that we can still enjoy the best part of that (our friendship) without having to do the rest!! :)
Caren
On Jul 10, 2010, at 7:43 AM
Oh my gosh...I don't read emails for 24 hours and this is what I get?!
My vote is Aye! for Annette planning, Steph assist in obtaining accommodations, Karen in charge of shopping and pedicure/massage arrangements, Caren in charge of non-caloric feasting of delectable vittles, Cami in charge of fun, relaxing love from her BFF's, and Christy in charge of ....gosh, what is there left to be in charge of? Regardless of time, date or location count me in. In the meantime, maybe I'll look up some cheap plane tickets.
Caren...what is Cori's status and location? Any chance to bring her along,too? FYI (for my sisters) Cori was Michelle's roommate when she was engaged to Eric and introduced me to the wonderful world of Riddle and Schofield Mania.
Keep us posted...Christy out.
July 10, 2010
Hey, it's got my vote! And I'm pretty sure calories don't exist during a weekend like that, right?
I'm all about everyone going home to their families feeling relaxed and refreshed! When was the last time I felt that way??
Caren
July 10, 2010
This is Trent. It's my time to chime in. Karen's perfect idea of a G/S vacation is to SLEEP IN, get up at 9 (even 8 o'clock would be sleeping in for her now) and make a fancy breakfast all together. After that, it's off to the spa for Mani-Pedi's or massage or whatever pleases the female body and mind. Then it's back to the condo for a good nap/laugh/chat/frivolous TV time. After all that fun stuff, a short shopping trip to buy something totally unnecessary (like matching bright green or orange (Karen says that orange is a totally unacceptable color and she can't even joke about it so she mandates I change it to YELLOW or PURPLE) purses and then hit Outback Steakhouse for dinner. After dinner, it's off to the workout center so you can return to the condo with gallons of double chocolate fudge ice cream while you partake in the extended edition Twilight marathon. (or some other girl power marathon) Now granted that this might be too much for one day, but things can be spread over 3 days, or repeated each day. Whatever is best for female relaxation.
Just my two cents...
Trent
PS "Yes, I approve you this message"
July 10, 2010
She's not actually in a town, but here's her address so you can look it up.
5790 Deer Park Rd.
St. Cloud, FL 34773
It's a huge ranch that constitutes this big blank spot on the map. I'm pretty sure she has said they are about an hour from Orlando. But they're pretty much an hour from any civilization, so I'm not sure if that helps. Driving shouldn't be a big deal for her, though, so I don't think we have to limit it just to the Orlando area if we don't want to. (It's just the greater effort -- and exposure -- of flying that is the concern.)
I, for one, will need to bring Aksel, so I'm all about keeping it simple and nice and relaxing! (When was the last time any of us really relaxed??) And of course the biggest treat and entertainment will be being all together!
Thanks for rising to the challenge, Annette! :)
Caren
Annette, we're emailing at the same time! I'm fine with Orlando, or I'm fine with something else if you find a quaint little hamlet somewhere with cuckoo clocks and.....oh wait, wrong country. :) Caren
July 10, 2010
So should we just plan on staying in Orlando and doing the Orlando thing? that would be great with me!
Annette
July 10, 2010
"maybe we should put her in charge of deciding where to go in FL. :) All in favor, say aye! :)"
Aye! . . .let me know if you have any requests. Of course DisneyWorld is a great and easy option. I would have to look on a map and know where Cami acutally is to see what other possiblities there would be. Caren what town is she in?
I don't know about Domestic flights but International flight prices were a lot cheaper starting the day after Labor Day and it will start getting a little cooler down there the longer we wait. But of course what is most important is what will work best for Cami.
Steph when you can, let me know of all the possible resort locations we could use that are "near" Cami.
Annette
Oh, that would be really cool! Thanks, Steph!
Caren
Jul 9, 2010, at 8:09 PM
There is a WorldMark Condo in Orlando, and Sept-Oct. might be off-season, so we might be able to get something for a few nights there. I'll put my travel agent (aka: Zach) on it, and see what he comes up with-- just for starters. We'lll get into specifics once we have some dates to work with. . . .
I love you all!!!
Stephanie
July 9, 2010
She'll have radiation through the 26th of this month. Sometime after that she'll
start chemo. Hopefully her symptoms will be mild, because I guess this is a regimen
she'll have to do for the rest of her life. Once a month she'll have a bone treatment thing. She's only done it once and it put her out of commission for a few days. So if we can time it to be on her off week for chemo and then before she has her monthly bone whatever-you-call-it, that will give her the best chance of feeling well. Since we won't know what that schedule will be until she starts the chemo (I'm assuming in August), then we're probably looking at later into September (or maybe even October) by the time we get tickets and stuff. Hopefully that will be a cheaper time to fly and we can get good deals! And if it's too much of a burden, Karen, I am fine with pitching in too!
Doug is happy with pitching in for hotel costs or whatever. Since Annette is our travel guru (I always felt wistful reading about your trips in Germany!), maybe we should put her in charge of deciding where to go in FL. :) All in favor, say aye! :)
Caren
July 9, 2010
Of course whatever is best for Cami, is what we'll do! It sounds good to wait for her system and see what she can handle sometime after Labor Day. Who knows--maybe by then our student loans will have come!
We will just have to make it work and find a way for me to get to Flordia!
Karen
July 9, 2010
Speaking of blabbering, you're hearing from me again! I just got off the phone with
Doug. Cami's having a pretty rough day and he's rethinking the wisdom of having her fly anywhere. I know we wouldn't do it until after she was done with radiation, but he's worried that she won't be up for something like a plane ride for a long time. And who knows what her immune system will be able to handle.
So, Karen, I know that you were excited about the thought of doing something close
to home, but it sounds like it might be best if we all went out there. Then in a few
years when she's healthy as a horse and this is all just a distant memory, SHE can be the one to fly! :) Let's not plan on Labor Day. Let's wait and see what her chemo and bone infusion treatment schedule will be like so we can time it so she's feeling her best. I'll be going out there in a week or so to help get her through the last of her radiation treatment, so hopefully we can make more firm plans then.
Does that sound good? Thanks for being flexible!
Caren
July 9, 1010
I think it would be a great idea if we could stay in one of Shaw's condo's (Steph,
wouldn't it only be like $40 a night or something?) Theere's a World Mark in Oceanside that I know Shaws have stayed at (halfway between LA and San Diego), and so that would be a cool place to go! There's also a couple in Las Vegas--I've stayed in both. They're all so nice and very resort-y. Although I do know holiday weekends (like Labor Day) fill up months or even a year in advance, so I don't know if she could get one of those for us. Those places (or somewhere in AZ) would be really nice for me because then I could just drive there and not have to worry about buying a plane ticket (or putting everyone out and chipping in to buy me one!) Of course I would be very appreciative and take the plane ticket if people helped me out a little, but if there's a way around that, then at least it would save money.
Also, the Friday before Labor Day is my wedding anniversary (Sept. 3), so Trent would probably be slightly bummed at that if I was taking off--BUT, it would be fine, of course. We would celebrate the week before, or something. I mean, we do that all the time when our actual anniversary lands around a vacation or whatever. (We did get married on a weekend holiday, after all!)
Okay, so this is so fun to think about! I mean, not the reason why we would all get
together, but at the same time, it's so fun! It would be the most fun weekend I've had since August 2006 when Trent and I went on our cruise (the last time I was able to get away wihout any kids for more than 24 hours. Oh yeah, except for last November when we came here for a couple days to look for a place to live. But that was anything but relaxing. Talk about stress! We were so frantic and busy trying to see as many apartments and houses as possible that we even ran out of gas because we never had time to stop and get any!
Okay, enough blabbering. I'm out.
Karen
July 9, 2010
I love supportive husbands! Thanks, Frank!
I totally agree about doing it sooner rather than later. I was wondering if everyone
has Labor Day plans yet or not. We could do it later if we need more time to plan, but that's a nice three-day weekend. She lives about an hour from Orlando, so there's all that Disney World resort stuff there. It would be more expensive, but oh so fun!
Doug supports the idea and said it might make more sense for her to come out here
where the rest of us are instead of all of us going there. I agree with one reservation -- how to avoid sending the wrong message to my family who may be irritated that she came all the way out here but didn't go the rest of the way to see them. So in some ways it would be best if we went somewhere else to avoid family politics. I mean, I can totally understand why they would feel that way, but that is one drawback to her coming out here. Not that it's all your problem, though, so I'll just have to work it out!
Some of the variables to consider. After she's done with radiation then she'll start
chemotherapy. It won't be as heavy as what she did before, but it can still make her sick and she won't know until she's on it how it'll affect her. I think it'll be a 2 weeks on 1 week off thing, so we might want to plan it for one of her off weeks, which might eliminate Labor Day. And that might eliminate her ability to travel, I just don't know yet. We'll just have to wait and see.
I really appreciate that you are all so willing to make this happen. I know it's a
sacrifice (Annette, I had to laugh at your comment about spry 60's), and there's always a chance that she'll pull through and have lots of years ahead of her. But I know it will mean a lot to her and I think it's one of those instances where we can't always assume there will be a Tomorrow and a Someday.
Oh, I can't remember if I mentioned this already, but Doug also said that things are
coming together for the position in CA if it comes to that. But he's not sure on timing, and I get the feeling it might not happen until after Annette leaves the country. (Annette, I'm sorry Frank is gone, but I am happy that it means you're not in Germany right now!)
So, a couple of things I'm wondering. If Cami can travel, any ideas about where to
go? I know Karen lives in a popular tourist place. What about you Arizonans? Or should we go somewhere different for all of us? Stephanie, is there any chance you can get a deal through your time share thing (without messing up plans for your family to use it, of course)? Would you all be interested in trying to make something work for Labor Day, or would you prefer not to do it on a holiday weekend? Just trying to get all options on the table, so if you have any ideas, please share!
Caren
Jul 9, 2010, at 1:14 AM
Before I even read any of the emails talking about getting together I talked to
Frank and told him the news about Cami and the first thing he said was, "Do you need
to take a trip to Florida?" Wherever we meet it needs to happen and I think a few
of us are rich enough to pitch in for Karen getting wherever we decide to meet. Does Cami live anywhere near a nice little resort that we could go to in case she is too sick to travel far? And we can't put it off very long. I leave the states in December/Jan. and won't be back until next summer.
I pretty much would be able to leave any time. I would just need enough time
to make arrangements for the boys. Mom and Dad wouldn't be able to do it on their own with all three boys. They're not in their spry 60's anymore!
Annette
July 9, 2010
Karen, I totally understand, and I was going to mention earlier that I know your situation is a little different and don't feel at all bad if you can't make it work. Who knows? Maybe they will move West after all and we can do it a little closer to home! Or maybe she'll want to come out here for a fun weekend. I don't know, we're just in the talking phase. But I've emailed Doug to see what he thinks. I'll let you know!
Caren
Thu, Jul 8, 2010 at 3:29 PM
Of course I would love to all get together. If only money grew on trees..... Well, if Trent's student loans will finally come in (we've been waiting for them for about a month), then I think we should have enough for me to go. But until then, well, let's just say, does anyone have a few hundred dollars lying around this month so we can buy groceries? (We don't receive Food Stamps anymore.
Karen
July 8, 2010
I have told Cami that I told you four and of course she didn't mind. I haven't talked to her about getting together yet. I thought I'd check with Doug first and see if we should plan something or just surprise her.
As far as moving to the West is concerned, apparently there is some talk about transferring him out to Chico, CA where his former boss is now. But they aren't anxious to do anything too hasty yet. They make it sound like as soon as they're ready they can go, but I don't know if it's really that simple or not. And I'm hoping they won't wait until she's on her deathbed before deciding!
She keeps saying she can't do a move right now because they are way anxious about her spine and don't want her doing any lifting or anything like that. But I don't know if that will ever improve or not or if that will just be the new norm. And there are certainly plenty of people who would step in to help so she didn't have to lift a finger!
Well, if you guys are all good with trying to get together -- especially while Annette is in the country -- I'll talk to Doug and see what he thinks and if we should make it a surprise or involve her from the beginning.
Love you girls!
Caren
Wed, Jul 7, 2010 at 5:51 PM
I have sat on the emails Caren has sent for a few hours and can't seem to shake the feeling of how much Cami needs us right now. (Maybe it is just that I need Cami right now, I don't know). I have kept reminiscing on so many fabulous memories and good feelings that I think getting together is an inspired thought. Caren, have you talked to Cami about all of this and does she know that you have let all the Goodman's know about her? I agree with Steph that if she is up for it after her treatments, let's all get together. Is Doug's work/school situation such that they could move back West. Heck, I would go to the east coast to see her if her situation doesn't allow her to come out West. Please continue to keep us posted and let us know if she is OK to get in the loop on these emails, too.
Thanks and lots of love, Christy
Date: Wed, 7 Jul 2010 17:10:58
"Sometimes life just makes me want to scream -- and if you're going to scream, it might as well be with berry pie or chocolate stuck in your teeth -- surrounded by a bunch of girl friends!!"
Best quote ever!!
Caren
Wed, Jul 7, 2010 at 5:01 PM
Oh my gosh: I would fly or drive anywhere and do anything to have a G-S Reunion. I can't believe that you have only seen Cami twice in the past 5 years!! Let's see what happens with her treatments in the next few weeks, and then start making plans to ALL get together. Sometimes life just makes me want to scream -- and if you're going to scream, it might as well be with berry pie or chocolate stuck in your teeth -- surrounded by a bunch of girl friends!!
Life is too short, live hard, laugh long, and love. . .
Stephanie
Wed, Jul 7, 2010 at 11:49 AM
The doctor was optimistic when talking about the bone cancer. But I don't think he's so optimistic now about the brain tumors. The radiation guy was really encouraging them to move back to be close to family, which they interpreted as meaning, "You don't have a lot of time left." She has three weeks of radiation and then they should have a better idea from how she responds to the treatment. For now no one is talking in definitive life expectancy terms, but Cami said the survival rate is only something like 80%.
The hardest thing for me right now is having her so far away. I have only seen her twice in the last five years, and it's hard not to feel bitter about her spending the last years of her life so far away. I feel so helpless to do anything, even just trying to mourn and suffer with her because I can't be in the trenches with her. Her neighbors and ward are doing a great job of filling in without family around, but it is still so frustrating for the rest of us who can't be there.
I'm thinking maybe we should have a Goodman-Schofield reunion while Annette is in the States. Could your families spare you all for a weekend? Just a thought. Something that occurred to me just now. One thing I've learned is that we need to make more time for the people who matter while we have time. Cami didn't come to OR in the spring for my grandpa's funeral. Not because she couldn't, but because Doug had some issues with it and she stayed to keep the peace. In hindsight, you can believe they wish they had done that differently. Well, gotta run to Aksel's two month appt. I'll let you know as I hear more in the coming weeks as her treatment progresses. Hopefully it'll be good news next time!
Thanks for your prayers and support!
Caren
Jul 7, 2010, at 12:28 AM
Thank you Caren for letting us know. It would be nice to know on what grounds her Doctor could be optomistic. I agree with your assessment. Michelle's Doctor was doing the same thing until finally I talked to the nurse who would call the house frequently to get updates and see how Michelle was responding to treatments etc. I told the nurse that the Doctor kept saying Michelle was not terminal but we all couldn't see how it could be anything else. She had just gotten so bad we couldn't even imagine her body ever healing from where it was. After that visit is when everyone let reality be discussed and plans were made based on what the reality was and we could all start the journey and the process of what that meant and plan accordingly. My heart hurts so bad right now. I will certainly keep all of you in my prayers for peace and guidance and tender mercies to be poured out onto all of you.
Annette
Tuesday, July 6, 2010, 9:59 PM
Oh, that's good to know. I didn't know if she had been bcc'ing you guys on some of her emails or not.
I'm sure I'll get a lot of details wrong, but I'll just try to give you the short version. About a month or so ago a routine test showed some elevated tumor markers, and a follow-up bone scan showed that the breast cancer has metastasized and spread to her bones. It's all throughout her skeletal system. That was a pretty big shock, but then her oncologist was very optimistic and put things in perspective. The treatment will be no picnic, but won't be as hard on her as it was last time. She will have to do it for the rest of her life, but there was no reason to think in the short term.
Then she had some MRI's done and they found it in her brain. She has at least a dozen tumors in her brain, two if which are at least an inch in diameter. They got this news just a week ago and she started radiation today. I don't think I need to tell you guys that her odds for survival don't look good. She remains hopeful, though, so we'll see. In the meantime, they have explored some options for moving back to the West if it becomes imperative, but are taking a wait-and-see approach right now. I can't even tell you how much I hate them being so far away where none of us can help!
Anyway, it's been a pretty emotional and stressful couple of weeks. She continues with her good humor -- which is amplified by a steroid she's taking that makes her a bit intense! -- and to just talk to her you would think there's nothing to be worked up about. But considering that I don't know anyone who has survived once cancer spreads to their brain, it sure seems like the odds are against her.
Anyway, I just thought you four should know. I'm sure she would want you to know and probably would have said something earlier if she had been able to think straight the past few weeks. If you can keep her and Doug and their family in your prayers, that would be great. Even if it just means that they move closer to family so she doesn't spend the last months or years of her life in some swamp on the opposite side of the country, that would be a definite tender mercy!
Love,
Caren
Jul 6, 2010, at 10:07 PM
Hey Caren,
I don't remember reading anything about Cami's health recently. I even went back to check emails to make sure. So what is going on??
Let us know. We love you back!
Stephanie
Mon, Jul 5, 2010 at 2:37 AM
Hey girls - I assume that Cami has updated you guys about her recent resurgence of cancer. But just in case, I thought I'd check and make sure. I won't go into it all now if she already has. But let me know if she hasn't because I know she would want you to know!
Love you girls bad!
Caren
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