Mom's Updates

Mom's Obituary

2010-01-27T16:08:00.001-07:00

Anna Christine (Chris) Lumpkins Cook

March 24, 1939—

January 26, 2010

Chris Cook 70, daughter, sister, loving wife, mom, and grammy passed away Tuesday morning, January 26^th 2010 in Salt Lake City, UT after a valiant fight with cancer. Chris was born in Ajo, AZ on March 24, 1939. She was the oldest of four children born to Louie Christianson Lumpkins and Genva (Robinson) Lumpkins.

She attended school in Albuquerque and Farmington, NM. She graduated from Farmington High School in 1957. She attended BYU in Provo, UT and UNM in Albuquerque, NM.

She married the love of her life and eternal companion Jack Denison Cook on January 29, 1960. Marriage later solemnized in the Mesa Arizona Temple on June 3, 1966. They were three days short in celebrating their 50^th Wedding Anniversary.

She was a life long active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints serving in many ward and stake callings and for the past eight years as an ordinance worker in the Albuquerque New Mexico Temple.

She is survived by her husband Jack Cook of Farmington, sons Bret Cook and wife Dee of Albuquerque, NM, Greg Cook and wife Amy of Gilbert, AZ, Kurt Cook of Farmington, NM. She is also survived by daughters Lori Webb and husband Chuck of Farmington, NM, and Kristi Mcilmoil and husband John of Provo, UT; nine grandchildren, Megan Cook, Ayrton Cook, Garrett Cook, Connor Cook, Ashley Wray, Chance Webb, JD Cook, McKay Cook, and John D. Mcilmoil; two great grandchildren Kade Webb and Eden Wray.

Her granddaughter, Tiffany Lynn Cook, her mother-in-law, Janet Cook and her daddy, Louie Lumpkins, preceded her in death.

She leaves behind a legacy of love, simple faith and inspiration to all. She will continue to be an angel among us. We love you Mom.

Funeral services will be held Monday, February 1, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Stake Center, 4400 N. College Blvd. Following the services internment will be at Greenlawn Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Chuck Webb, John Mcilmoil Jr., Derek Wray, Chance Webb, Garrett Cook, John D. Mcilmoil, Ayrton Cook, Connor Cook, JD Cook, McKay Cook and Kade Webb.

A viewing will be held at Brewer, Lee and Larkin Funeral Home, 103 E. Ute Street, on Sunday January 31, 2010 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Arrangements are under the direction of Brewer, Lee and Larkin Funeral Home, (505) 325-8688.

2010-01-26T22:51:00.002-07:00

An Angel Will Always Be Among Us

2010-01-26T15:57:00.005-07:00

This is the most difficult entry to write. Mom passed away this morning surrounded by her eternal companion-Dad, and her children. Mom fought valiantly until she was called home.

Mom's funeral will be on Monday, February 1st at 10:00 am. The services will be located at the LDS Church (Stake Center) 4400 N. College Blvd. There will also be a viewing Sunday evening 5:00 pm-7:00 pm. at the Brewer, Lee and Larkin Funeral Home.

Our hearts are filled with gratitude to the angels of the Care Source Hospice Home. As sick as Mom was she continued to touch the lives of those that had the blessing to provide care for her. A heart felt thanks to each of you for prayers, notes, flowers, donations to HCI and loving Mom.

The tears will continue to fall but we know she has spoken, as the Apostle Paul, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." Mom was and will continue to be our Angel. "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid" (John 14:26–27).

Simple Faith

2010-01-25T23:56:00.002-07:00

We know the way Mom has chosen to live her life will allow her to declare, as the Apostle Paul, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." Mom has a simple faith and that faith is pure love.

"Love is the guiding light that illuminates the disciple’s path and fills our daily walk with life, meaning, and wonder. Love is the measure of our faith, the inspiration for our obedience, and the true attitude of our discipleship. Love is the way of the disciple." President Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Simple Reminders

2010-01-24T21:48:00.002-07:00

As Dad and the five us knelt by Mom's bed for family prayer, we were reminded of what Mom would tell us each time we left home, "No empty chairs in the world to come." We were also reminded of the counsel given by Elder Neil A Maxwell, "rather than simply passing through trials, we must allow trials to pass through us in ways that sanctify us." Mom will always be the enduring legacy of allowing trials to sanctify her. May each of us follow her example of faith and courage.

Tender Moments

2010-01-23T23:24:00.003-07:00

Mom has been blessed with a few peaceful days. However as the cancer continues to ravage her body comes the difficulty of breathing from the fluid filling her lungs. Despite the difficulties she continues to press forward with courage. No matter the struggle she constantly brings a smile to our broken hearts.
The priceless moment of the day came as all five us kids stood by Mom's bed. It was just like when we were little and we all lined up to give Mom a kiss goodnight. Tender moments will continue to be shared as Mom, Dad and the five of us are given one more day as a family.

Pics of Mom and Family Visits

2010-01-22T23:39:00.002-07:00

Saying "I Love You"

2010-01-21T22:25:00.003-07:00

Each of us already knows we should tell the people we love that we love them. But what we know is not always reflected in what we do.

We should remember that saying “I love you” is only a beginning. We need to say it, we need to mean it, and most importantly we need consistently to show it. We need to both express and demonstrate love.

President Thomas S. Monson recently counseled: “Often we assume that [the people around us] must know how much we love them. But we should never assume; we should let them know. … We will never regret the kind words spoken or the affection shown. Rather, our regrets will come if such things are omitted from our relationships with those who mean the most to us” (“Finding Joy in the Journey,” Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2008, 86).

May every spouse, every child, and every parent be blessed to communicate and receive love, to bear and be edified by strong testimony, and to become more consistent in the seemingly small things that matter so much.

"More Diligent and Concerned at Home" Elder A. Bednar (General Conference, October 2009)

Finding Peace

2010-01-21T00:02:00.004-07:00

We will forever and always feel these words in our hearts, "I shall always be near you; in the gladdest days and in the darkest nights …"
*Through prayer, that path to spiritual power—even a passport to peace, we continue to find comfort in our hearts. The tender mercies of one more day.

*Finding Peace, President Thomas S. Monson

2010-01-19T22:16:00.003-07:00

Our family is surrounded by the angels of compassion that work at this beautiful hospice home. Mom has the most breathtaking glow about her. Her room is filled with reverence and peace. We are engulfed with love each time we walk through the door. Tears fall but peace is in our hearts as we know we are a forever family.

Mom shared this thought with me from Lucy Mack Smith as a reminder to watch over each other as a family. "We must cherish one another, watch over one another, comfort one another and gain instruction, that we may all sit down in heaven together." And we will!

Request: If you have a fond or funny memory which you have experienced with Mom please e-mail momsupdates@gmail.com

A Place of Reverence

2010-01-18T22:19:00.005-07:00

Mom has left the Huntsman Cancer Institute. We appreciate the care that was provided to her during her time at HCI. We have moved her to a hospice home. This place is so peaceful and has a very reverent feeling. Those who are providing Mom's care are extremely compassionate. She thinks this place is heaven on earth.

Mom will not be returning to New Mexico and we know how much each of you would like to come and give Mom hugs and we are grateful for the love you have for her. However at this sensitive time, the family requests that all visitation is restricted to direct family.

Decisions and Peace

2010-01-17T22:21:00.005-07:00

As I sit down to write tonight it is extremely difficult to find the words. As each of you know, Mom has been diagnosed with Poorly Differentiated Neuroendocrine Tumors. With this type of cancer and as advanced as it was there is no way of knowing where it started. This type of cancer is extremely rare and is a very aggressive fast growing cancer. It is treatable but not curable. With chemotherapy treatment life expectancy is six months to a year. The surgery Mom had was very invasive, and she has fought hard and long to recover from the surgery. Her fight entailed two trips to the ICU, E-coli infections, and fluid accumulating in her lungs. Tests results showed the cancer had spread to her lungs which is causing constant fluid accumulation. She is on oxygen to help improve her breathing. This has taken a toll on Mom's body. After counseling with many specialists, Mom has made the decision not to undergo any kind of chemotherapy treatment. Our family is at peace with this decision and we know that our Heavenly Father will call her home.
We know each of your prayers have extended her life thus far with the tender mercies of our Heavenly Father. We ask that your continued prayers will be to bring comfort with the suffering Mom continues to experience. Our family is grateful for each day we are given to be with Mom.

Because We Had Today

2010-01-17T01:12:00.002-07:00

The late-night tears are replaced with trust and we feel God's hand in our life. Are hearts are filled with joy because of the forever moments we have been given with Mom.

Storms of Life

2010-01-15T22:38:00.002-07:00

Mom taught our family in spite of difficulties in life, it is important to stay close to a loving Heavenly Father. Mom shared this thought with me from Sister Patricia Holland, "never flee from God and never, ever isolate yourself from Him. Kneel every day and thank your Savior for His atonement, His redemption, His forgiving mission which took Him to Gethsemane and Calvary." She also taught to appreciate the storms of life because those storms will define who you are and will be your testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Schedule Torture

2010-01-14T21:58:00.003-07:00

Mom's daily routine: 4:30 am--time to check weight, vitals, flush drains.
5:00 am--blood sugar taken (this occurs every 4 hours)
5:30 am--Doctor after Doctor comes into her room until 9:30 am
8:30 am--check vitals again, meds are given, flush drains, change bags
9:00 am--argues with the physical therapist--therapist says "I'll be back"
10:00 am--change wound bandages
10:30 am--heparin shot, more meds
11:00 am--try and take short nap, before vitals, blood sugar etc.
12:00 pm--asks for the 20th time, what day is it? What time is it?
1:00 pm--argues again with the physical therapist. (they have learned she will relent if it is on her terms, this generally results in returning a third time.)
2:30 pm--pain management comes by and some more docs
3:00 pm--try to sleep
4:00 pm--agitated and tired, doesn't matter vitals are still taken, meds are given, tubes drained, blood sugar levels tested. Continues through the remainder of the day and through the night. However during shift change (7:00 am-8:30 am/7:00 pm-8:30 pm) you better not have any needs. To be honest this is the time when Mom pushes the nurse button over and over again. Mom is known as the pistol! She keeps all of us on our toes at all times.(Starting all over again at 4:30 am.) Mom refers to her schedule as daily torture.

Day 30

2010-01-13T22:41:00.003-07:00

Tip of the Day:
Oxygenating your eyes causes a wind storm and dry eyes.
Mom recomends this latest fashion trend from the Hunstman Cancer Institute, oxygen tube may be worn as eye glasses or a head band. (She has a tendency to oxygenate everything but her nose)

Faith

2010-01-12T23:00:00.002-07:00

You need never be discouraged or afraid. The way through difficulties has always been prepared for you and you will find it if you exercise faith.
Pres. Henry B Erying.

Good Moments

2010-01-11T22:26:00.003-07:00

Mom has two good days. She has been able to walk a bit further each day with the help of the good ol' walker, the physical therapist and Dad. We tell her before she knows it her and Grammy Pumpkin (Lumpkins) will be racing. She is trying to eat, a couple spoonfuls of something everyday. She also is getting better with sipping on an Ensure throughout the day. Thankfully the meat and potatoes bag (feeding through an IV) is providing the calories she needs. Mom said "You know it is so frustrating because everybody says you are doing so good today, if that is true why do I feel worse everyday?" How I know that feeling.
Many have asked about Mom being treated with anxiety medication...yes she is being treated and it does help but doesn't take the anxiety away. Again this is a very common symptom among cancer patients and it is real. The anxiety med knocks her out, it is a fine line finding the right dosage so that she able to do therapy.
We are extremely grateful for the good moments Mom is given.

The Grandkids Visit

2010-01-10T22:49:00.005-07:00

A small glimpse of the Grandkids visit to see Mom.

Little Princess Eden

2010-01-09T22:40:00.003-07:00

Mom enjoyed seeing Eden. She wanted so much to get out of bed and play with little miss princes Eden. Eden took her little babies and put them on Mom's (Grammy)bed. She told Mom (Grammy) lots of stories. For a moment today Mom was able to forget about her physical body. Again the tender mercies of the Lord was extended to our family today.

Pain and Anxiety don't Mix

2010-01-08T21:29:00.002-07:00

Another rough day for Mom. The anxiety she has is getting worse. Anxiety is typical for cancer patients. Pain management has been assigned to Mom to find a course of action that will control the pain and anxiety. Mom has been extremely blessed to have Jake as her nurse. (She says "Oh he is so cute!" Lori and I agree with Mom's statement) He is so compassionate and goes beyond his job to help Mom. We are so grateful for him. Ashley and little Eden will be here tomorrow. She keeps asking is my little Princess Eden here yet? We pray tomorrow will be a calm from the storm.

Top 10 Things We Have Learned--It's Always Groundhog Day

2010-01-07T21:27:00.003-07:00

We have had a number of people ask about this type of cancer, we are still meeting with the doctors concerning treatment and prognosis.

Things we have learned from Mom's stay at the hospital:

Warning--don't always believe what your doctor tells you, it is hazardous to your health.
Mom says, "Go Eat." Que for us to leave her alone.
When the nurse asks, "What is your pain on a scale of 1-10?"....response "Beyond a 12!"
And if nurse than asks "Do you need any pain medication?"...response, "No I like to be miserable, thanks for asking."
Mom, "What the heck is the time?"....response, "What time do you want it to be?"
Mom, "I'll start tomorrow."....response, "Sure you will."
Mom's feeding bag is called the steak and potato meal, but if it comes in pink its not strawberry.
How many nurses does it take to change a bag, we don't know we are still counting.
Mom has developed a 7th sense....the sense of somebody sitting down, the sense of somebody falling asleep, the sense of somebody relaxing....her instinct to this sense "I need just one more thing."
Most common sound in the hospital--beep, beep, beep, beep, beep, beep, beep, beep, beep, beep.....beep!

We Love Mom:)

Misdiagnosis

2010-01-06T22:44:00.004-07:00

Mom was misdiagnosed, she does not have ovarian cancer. The cancer she has is Poorly Differentiated Neuroendocrine. Dr. Soisson originally thought Mom had ovarian cancer but the pathology report came back as Poorly Differentiated Neuroendocrine Tumors.

We are still praying for a miracle for Mom and we have witnessed the many tender mercies of the Lord. We are grateful for the small miracles we have been blessed with as a family. We also know it is not in our hands.

Families Are Forever

2010-01-05T22:34:00.001-07:00

"What all of us long for in our hearts is to feel bound together in love with the sweet assurance that it can last forever. This is the promise of eternal life, which God has called His greatest gift to His children (see D&C 14:7). That is made possible by the gifts to us of His Beloved Son: the Savior’s birth, Atonement, and Resurrection. It is through the Savior’s life and mission that we have the assurance that we can be together in love and live forever in families." --President Henry B. Eyring

Ups and Downs

2010-01-04T22:15:00.002-07:00

Mom had a great morning. She was able to sit in a comfortable chair for an hour. She also took a shower with the help of many. Mom, "Oh it felt so good." Physical Therapy came by but she was to exhausted, so Dad asked if they could return later. (Mom asked if Dan Ivie could be her PT--"you know he is the best) As the day continued she slipped further into exhaustion and was unable to do anything else the rest of the day. We are so excited for what she accomplished today! It may not seem like much, but it was a marathon for Mom.

Day 20

2010-01-03T22:39:00.006-07:00

Day 20 and life right now for Mom is pretty rough. She had great night. The nurses came in to stand her up this morning (she is unable stand or walk), they dropped her. This is the third time she has been dropped in the last ten days. She has so much fluid (it truly is unbelievable the amount of edema she has) that she is dead weight. She literally cannot stand on her own. Mom has so much fear from being dropped, she is scared to death to get out of bed. This has again set Mom back.

The results from the abscess showed Mom has E-coli. This was caused from removing some of the intestine during surgery. She is being treated with antibiotic. Dr. Redding feels very strongly the E-coli caused the lungs to fill with fluid so rapidly after each drain. Yes she still has fluid in her lungs from the cancer, which is a concern, however the lungs are not filling at a rapid pace. A tremendous blessing.

Dr. Dobson switched her pain meds. That to is a blessing. She still has pain but is able to keep her pain level at a 7 instead of off the chart. Yes this seems endless but Mom is still fighting and is with us. "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not unto your own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct thy paths." Proverbs 3:5-6
(Pictures: Christmas day, John D. dressed as Santa and delivered Mom her gifts, she smiled)

Tender Mercies

2010-01-02T22:20:00.008-07:00

Mom has enjoyed the moments she was able to spend with our family. Lori is coming on Monday. Many tears and memories were shared as a family. The tender mercies of the Lord are being given to Mom and Dad.

First day of the New Year and a request

2010-01-01T22:56:00.003-07:00

Mom expresses appreciation for all the thoughts and prayers that you have each offered. At this sensitive time, the family requests that all visitation is restricted to direct family.

Transfer to HCI

2009-12-31T22:40:00.006-07:00

Mom is back at Huntsman!!! She transferred back about 7:40 pm after a very long stay at the University ICU. After kisses from John, Garrett, Connor, Megan, and Ayrton Mom is sleeping. She is looking forward to seeing JD and McKay when they arrive in town tomorrow. Our hearts are so full of gratitude. Happy New Year to each of you.

Big Day

2009-12-30T22:10:00.002-07:00

The ventilator was removed today. Mom is breathing on her own. (She is still on oxygen) The pulmonary docs found an abscess in Mom's abdomen. She was taken to radiology to have a drainage tube put in, during the procedure there were a few more pockets discovered which required another drainage tube. Depending how the night goes she should be stabilized and be able to return to Huntsman tomorrow. Mom is very aware of what is taking place now that ventilator has been removed. She is giving orders to her nurses. Tyler (nurse) has been a so kind to Mom and has made sure we are aware of what is taking place with her. We will miss Dr. Lo. She is an amazing and extremely talented doctor.

Our family is coming to be with Mom this weekend. Bret, Dee, Megan and Aryton are here now. As said before her grandkids are her life and Grammy is their lives. Camp Grandma will always be forever memories to each one of them.

Small Miracles

2009-12-29T20:23:00.003-07:00

Mom is still in the ICU. Her lungs were drained this morning to take a CT contrast from the day before. The lab results are a direct miracle of prayers. She does not have pneumonia, there was not any indication of a blood clots and the cancer cells have not attached to each other to form tumors. Her lungs will continue to fill with fluid and the cancer cells will form into tumors if chemo is not started immediately. Once again Mom needs be stabilized before starting chemo. Chemo has been apart of the plan however it has become greatly urgent that the docs are able proceed asap. She is still on a ventilator. The docs hope to remove the ventilator tomorrow afternoon. She is heavily sedated to keep her unaware of what is taking place. Little John walked into her room last night and leaned over and whispered "I love you Gram." She turned her head, opened her eyes and squeezed his hand. She immediately went back to the deep sleep. Her grandkids are her life and she is everything to them.

Just a quick update

2009-12-28T23:46:00.002-07:00

Mom is on a ventilator to help her breath. 1.2 liters was drained from the right lung. She will remain in ICU until she stabilized. She will then be transformed back to Huntsman. She is heavily sedated to keep her unaware of what is taking place.

Turn for the worse

2009-12-28T13:23:00.002-07:00

Mom has been moved back to the ICU unit at the University Hospital. The fluid in her lungs is to the point where they need to be drained again. The fluid will keep coming back. The hope is to stabilize her in order to start chemo in a couple of days.
With the move back to ICU visitors are not allowed. We thank those of you who have expressed a desire to see Mom and wish that she was in a position to have visitors. Also to let you know Dad's phone will be off when he is back in the ICU so he will not be able to return phone calls. If you need to get a hold of someone please email my husband (provomacs@gmail.com)and he can pass messages to us.
Thank each of you for your daily prayers and love for Mom.

Physically Demanding

2009-12-27T23:12:00.004-07:00

Today was physically demanding for Mom, but she made progress. The orders or what we like to refer to them as goals, was to get Mom out of bed and walk two times and sit in a chair for 30 minutes, drink two boots and eat one yogurt. She did walk twice (I took pictures, post them at a later date) and she sat in chair for just under 30 minutes. The greatest accomplishment was eating half of a pancake and drank one boost. The pancake even stayed down. However Mom hit the wall this afternoon. The anxiety attacks are occurring more frequently this happens when the pain becomes out of control. (she never experienced or had anxiety attacks before surgery, onset the past 3 days) The fluid in her lungs is increasing everyday and it is extremely difficult for her to breath. The pulmonary docs will be in tomorrow to determine when Mom's lungs will be drained once again. Even though the cancer is causing the lungs to fill she is still at risk of pneumonia. The combination of pain, physical demands, stress and difficultly in breathing is causing the panic attacks. Despite the setbacks we find peace in the miracle of life. "Even though this a bitter trial, it is also a period of spiritual growth. We will find spiritual strength to survive even during the darkest nights." (Ensign ,January 10th, Hold on a Little Longer) We know the Lord with continue to sustain Mom.

The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

2009-12-26T23:55:00.002-07:00

The Good--Mom had the two drainage tubes removed from her abdomen. She also had the catheter removed. She has a UTI infection so there was no choice but to remove it. This requires her to get in and out of bed every 45 minutes to use the bathroom (a portable toilet has been placed next to her bed). This takes every ounce of energy she has. She cannot get out of bed by herself, two nurses and Dad have to assist. Between Kurt, me and Mom, Dad definitely qualifies as one outstanding nurse. It is very touching to watch him take care of Mom. Tears fill his eyes as he tenderly and gently takes care of Mom's every need. He rarely leaves her side.

The Bad--pain is still unbearable especially since she has to get out of bed so much which is also good because it relieves pressure points and increases her muscle strength. The swelling Mom has is unbelievable. Dad tells her all the time that she could play on the line for BYU. Seriously I can't even begin to describe how much swelling she has. This is very painful for Mom. Touching her causes pain, bending or even moving causes pain. She is still blowing veins. An air med nurse is being brought in daily to find a vein. (It is a blessing she only needs one IV for antibiotics and fluid) It is our prayer that the docs will strongly consider putting a port, central line, or a pick line which would alleviate some of the pain. She is once again on oral pain meds.

The Ugly--The lungs have been a major concern. Filling with fluid. When the liter of fluid was drained from her right lung, the fluid was sent away for testing. The test results would confirm pneumonia or cancer. The results came back on Christmas day--the cancer has spread to her lungs. She is struggling to breath (she is starting wheezing; which is getting worse everyday) and is on constant oxygen. Mom will have to have more fluid drained from her lungs sooner than later. Dr. Soisson and Dr. Lo both came in to confirm the cancer has spread to the lungs and Mom has stage 4 cancer.

Note again this a journal for Mom so what is written is what is taking place. And I apologize for updating so late but that is when I arrive home from the hospital. I have tried updating at the hospital but my main focus is on Mom and Dad. Thank each of you for prayers and concern.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T23:53:00.002-07:00

And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice cold in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so? It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled 'till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn't come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more. --Dr. Suess

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.

Another rough day

2009-12-25T00:20:00.002-07:00

The hour is late and Mom is finally sleeping. Another extremely rough day. It seems she takes one step forward but falls five steps back. Her words whispered to me truly indicates how Mom struggled today--"I don't want to do this anymore, I can't do this anymore, please take the pain away."

A little piece of heaven and victory

2009-12-23T19:54:00.004-07:00

Today was a good a day. Mom was able to get out of bed. The nurses helped Mom taking a real shower!! Mom--"It felt like a little piece of heaven." After resting, Mom took her first steps with the help of a walker and a few nurses. She walked about 100 feet!!! She was shaking like a leaf and literally collapsed into bed, but she did it. An incredible victory. As the nurses were getting her out of bed to walk Elder Gibbons and his wife walked into her room. Let's just say he got a glimpse of Mom's back side. His visit was extremely brief and he politely excused himself by saying "I don't think this a good time." I asked Mom who brought the cookies and she said "some guy named Hibbons." I said "oh Elder Gibbons", Mom responded "I don't think he was a missionary." Laughing I explained to her who Elder Gibbons was. Since she was pretty sedated on Saturday she didn't remember meeting him. The fluid in the lungs is still a concern as well as her swelling. She is having difficulty with her veins and the lines. An ultrasound machine was brought in to find a vein for a good line for the pca (pain control) and antibiotics. She is still unable to eat and really has no desires to eat. Yes the pain is still very intense but that is good because she is starting to become more aware of her surroundings. Today was a good day!

I forgot to write about her experience with her MRI on Monday. She was taken to have an MRI to take a better look at her lungs. The tech told her to listen for his instructions inside the tube. After a few minutes of being inside the tube, water came gushing out. She thought to herself I don't remember this ever happening before. A few minutes later, the tech pulled her out soaking wet because the machine had a malfunction. No gushing water wasn't apart of the test. She did laugh.

Bad days can get worse

2009-12-22T12:50:00.002-07:00

Mom is beyond miserable today. She did not sleep at all last night fighting pain. When talking her to this morning she said "I don't want to do this anymore."
Pain management is working with her to try to manage the extreme pain she is experiencing. She is back on the pain med drip as well as oral pain meds. Pain management is also considering putting the epidural back in. The pulmonary specialist also came by to check on her lungs--the fluid may need to pulled from her lungs again. She is retaining more and more fluid everyday which will be absorbed into the empty places in her body (lungs). It is unbelievable to see how swollen she is. The physical therapist worked on moving her legs back and forth. (She is unable to walk, yesterday the PT moved her from her bed to the chair.) She did get out of bed today. She couldn't. Today is a set back which the docs knew and said would take place along with many others. She is experiencing depression which is to expected. Yes bad days can get worse however small steps become the greatest blessings. May we all find peace in the words of Mark 5:36 "....be not afraid, only believe."

Note: this update is not only for those who want to know how Mom is doing but is a Journal for Mom to read to understand what she went through everyday to fight cancer.

The Good and the Bad

2009-12-21T22:27:00.003-07:00

Sometimes your best day can be your worst day. That was the case for Mom today. Her physical therapist came in this morning and worked with her. By the end of the session he was able to help her stand and move her to a chair. She sat in the chair for about a half hour. She was so excited about this accomplishment. She also took her first bites of food in six days--two bites of oatmeal for breakfast, a couple of spoonfuls of soup for lunch, and drank half of a small milkshake for dinner. Mom was having difficulty getting air into her lungs. There was also crackling in her lungs. The pulmonary specialist came in to listen to her lungs to determine a course of action. He ordered a CT scan. There was fluid filling her lungs. The pulmonary specialist drained a liter of her right lung. This provided a huge relief and Mom was able to take deep breathes which led to taking her off the oxygen during the day. The epidural was also removed from her back which is good news since she was developing a bed sore where the epidural was positioned into her back. Dr. Lo (she is Dr. Soisson's associate; she also assisted in Mom's surgery) came by and was extremely pleased with Mom's progress. She sat in the chair on more time. About 5:30 pm she went down hill fast. The pain was severe. Mom looked me in the eyes with tears and said she was beyond the 10 pain indicator. She was running a fever, clammy, sweaty, hot and cold. She very restless. Mom is going to experience the good and the bad but we know each day is a miracle. Mosiah 8:18 (The Book of Mormon) Thus God has provided a means that man, through faith, might work mighty miracles....

Day 5 and a story

2009-12-20T14:35:00.003-07:00

A bit more information--Mom has been moved back to The Huntsman Cancer Institute to the special care unit. The care is unbelievable--to be honest much better than the U of U ICU. All those involved in providing care for her go beyond their responsibilities. The special care unit only has six patients at a time, 6 nurses and 4 aides rotate to provide the care. So each patient has their own individual nurse. Words can't describe the care they are giving Mom.
She is extremely feisty today. One of the nurses came in to move her and Mom told her that she did NOT want to moved because the pain was excruciating. The nurse replied by telling her that she needed to be moved every two hours...Mom said "You call Mr. Huntsman to come down to my room and I guarantee you will not be moving me around...oh yea he is in Hawaii." The nurse gave a small smirk like what ever. What the nurse doesn't know is that we are very close friends with Mr. Huntsman's personal pilot, Bret and they really are in Hawaii. She also let them know that she would sit up and walk on her terms. Her and Kurt are so much alike.
We are seeing tiny improvements, her one and only kidney is beginning to function and her bowels are starting to wake up. These improvements are answers to prayers. Small they may be but significant in her graduating out the special needs unit to another level of care. She has being running a fever and there is crackling in her lungs but there is a careful watch on these symptoms. Her nights are not so good but again we know prayers are being answered.
We were very blessed yesterday afternoon to have Elder Gibbons come by to see Mom and the family. He gave her a beautiful blessing of courage to fight the cancer and confidence in decisions to be made. Each day is miracle to have Mom with us. Thank-you for your kind words. I can the light in her eyes as I read your cards and your thoughts to her. Our hearts are full of gratitude to each of you.

Yea!!!

2009-12-19T13:05:00.000-07:00

Mom has been moved back to Huntsman

Today's Update

2009-12-18T17:08:00.009-07:00

Mom has continued to rest and to improve in small ways. She is talking more and getting more coherent. The pain and comfort level have not improved but she has enjoyed her sips of water. This has reminded us be more grateful for the small things in life, like sips of water. Her blood pressure has been inconsistent but has not stayed low and the Doc's are a little less concerned about it. They are still concerned about her kidney function but we hope that this too will improve as she heals more from the surgery and continues to drink.

Request

2009-12-18T16:46:00.009-07:00

We have heard that some of you would like to send Mom flowers or other gifts. We have talked this over with Mom and Dad; and our family would like to ask all of you that have been considering sending Mom something that you please make a donation to the Huntsman Cancer Institute instead. We feel that HCI has done and are continuing to provide excellent care for Mom. Every dollar counts to support cancer research and we feel very strongly it would be a tribute to Mom and all those who spend endless hours caring for her. This would be a more of a lasting contribution if made to the HCI.
Thank-you for all of your support and prayers.

Some bad followed by some Good

2009-12-17T20:43:00.005-07:00

The day started off without any improvement and even a little regression. The pian medication was changed and the new stuff was not working so the pain management docs had to do some more changes. After making the pain med adjustments Mom started to improve at about 4 pm. One of Mom's many docs came by and told her he was going to remove the tube from her nose which was removing the bile from her stomach. The biggest event for Mom was right after removing the tube she had her first sips of water. This made her very happy. Her blood pressure has started to stabilize at a normal range but there is still concern about her kidney function. So we count today as a victory and are grateful for Mom's improvements. We know your prayers are working.
Today we also read Mom the messages from all of you and she loved them. Thanks for all your messages we really appreciate them.

Day 2

2009-12-16T21:27:00.005-07:00

Mom is still in ICU and we don't know how much longer she will be there but at least 2 more days
the doctors have expressed what major surgery this was and that it will take a while for her to heal.
She has had 2 more units of blood and her blood pressure a concern. It is low and needs to come up. She is also experiencing a lot of pain.
Dad spent the night at the hospital last night, and stays with mom through the day.
Thank-you for all your prayers and support.

Post surgery

2009-12-15T19:38:00.001-07:00

Mom is out of surgery and awaiting her transfer to ICU. We got to go see her and talk to her for a bit.
The cancer was wide spread and the Dr. had to remove her spleen, kidney, colon, ovaries and peritoneum. She has had 7 units of blood and she may need more. A number of large tumors were removed.
The Dr. says she will be in the hospital for some time (20 days maybe).

Surery Update

2009-12-15T14:22:00.000-07:00

Mom is in surgery and that's all we know. We will update everyone when she is out.

Surgery Tomorrow

2009-12-14T14:42:00.000-07:00

Prayers have been answered--Mom is scheduled for surgery tomorrow, December 15th, at 9:50 am at the Huntsman Cancer Institute. The pain and swelling became to great for her. I was able to visit with Dr. Soisson's wonderful nurse, Nancey and explain the situation. She told what I could do to comfort Mom as much as possible. Two hours later she called me back and said Dr. Soisson is on the other line....he feels very strongly she needs to be scheduled for surgery asap...after rearranging his schedule Mom will have surgery tomorrow! A huge relief was lifted off her shoulders when I told her the news. Dad left for New Mex yesterday and is returning to Utah as I write this update. He wasn't even home for 24 hours.....he loves Mom more than words can be expressed.

The Countdown and Address

2009-12-14T10:59:00.000-07:00

Mom's surgery can't come so enough--5 days and counting! She is extremely uncomfortable and her pain increases everyday. Pray for a miracle and pray that her pain and discomfort will be minimal. She finally went to sleep about 4 am. Thank each of you again for your kind words. Many have asked for an address. Cards can be sent to Mom's home in Farmington. I promise she will them receive asap! Family will be coming many different times to Utah. We will provide the address to the Huntsman Caner Institute soon.

Breast Cancer and thank you

2009-12-13T11:20:00.000-07:00

Mom was diagnosed with Breast Cancer in March 2008 and has had a full recovery. I don't think any of us expected to the hear the words cancer again so soon, a complete shock. Emotions feel our hearts and we fall to our knees often praying for another miracle. Mom always taught and showed by example to find strength in our faith and testimonies in our Savior, Jesus Christ.
"Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and of love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting on the words of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the the Father: Ye shall have eternal life."
2 Nephi 31:20 (Book of Mormon)
Thank each of you for your thoughts, it touches her heart as she reads your words.

update

2009-12-12T21:31:00.000-07:00

This blog is set up by Kristi Cook Mcilmoil for our mom-Chris, to give information and updates on her progress. Chris went to the ER on November 28th and a tumor was discovered. She set up a consultation with the Huntsman Cancer Institute. She is under the care of Dr. Andrew Soisson. He has suggested this is ovarian cancer. The course of treatment recommended is surgery which is scheduled for Friday, December 17th. At this time final diagnosis will be determined by Dr. Soisson. Results of surgery will determine future treatment. She will be in the Huntsman Cancer Institute up to 10 days following surgery and will not be able to travel immediately. (She always wanted to move to Utah) Mom has great deal of swelling (fluid) in the abdomen. Dr. Soisson recommended draining the fluid. At that procedure, 4 liters of fluid was drained to provide relief. This was a great relief unfortunately sooner than expected the fluid is returning. Of course she is very tired so Dad, myself, Big and little John ventured out to finish her Christmas shopping--six hours later we returned home to find mom wrapped in her pink blanket on the couch resting:) We love our Mom! She will be staying with me until the day of surgery. I will posting updates as needed. Please pass this blog onto others who will be interested in Mom's progress. We appreciate everyone's concern and prayers. We want our mom and dad to be able to rest so we are asking that phone calls are not made to them and to refer to this blog. Thank-you for your understanding at this time.