Sleepless Nights

December 27:  Nanette had a bad headache yesterday and again today.  She is suffering from insomnia which is probably caused by the Avastin or steroids.  It is hard for the doctors to determine the origin.  She also had a fever of 102 so Huntsman told her to come to Salt Lake and see a doctor in the Acute Cancer Care unit.  They said she was a little dehydrated so they hooked her up to two bags of fluids.  They did a thorough physical exam and sent blood to the lab to see if she had an infection which can be masked by the dosage of steroids she is taking.  They couldn't detect a problem but have put her on an antibiotic as a precaution.  She was tired when we got her back home.  The insomnia is discouraging to her but she is hoping that the positive work of the drugs she is taking will outweigh the negative.  We met the most amazing nurse today.  She is a young woman who just started at Huntsman.  When the hurricane leveled a part of the Phillipines, she immediately booked a flight at her own expense and went to help where she could.  She didn't have a clue what to do but with a two other people she met there and with medical supplies donated by others, they started a clinic in one of the LDS chapels still standing and started to help people.  She said there were only three of them to start but it grew to be a big clinic and is still there today helping people.  She said pictures don't even begin to describe the destruction.  It was inspiriing to hear her tell of the sweet and generous native people there who continued to be optimistic and hopeful even though their troubles were many.
Her story touched all of us.  Nanette also remains cheerful and optimistic regardless of the small hurdles she faces every day.  Her faith is strong and she believes there are better days ahead.  We heard a song the other day with these lyrics, "What if your blessings come through raindrops and your healing comes through tears and a thousand sleepless nights are what brings the Savior near."  She has felt the truth of those words in her life at this time, sleepless nights and all.

Christmas Day

December 25:  Christmas day.  It was a good day for Nanette.  She was steady on her feet and her headache was minimal.  We had a nice Christmas morning breakfast and opened presents.  Then we got "the skype call" which was the highlight of the day for Nanette and Sergio.  Elder Nick Abarca called from Ecuador twice - first from an internet cafe located by the cash register so we got to see lots of Ecuadorians buying things, and then later from a member's home where he could talk with all of us.  He looks great, is very happy and doing well.  He loves the missionary work and talking to people about Jesus Christ and the gospel.  Nanette and Sergio talked with him at length about challenges for him and Nanette, with a few emotional and tender moments.  Nanette is so happy that Nick is where he wants to be, doing what the Lord asked him to do.  Nanette got a pair of women's boxing gloves for a present that said, "Keep on fighting, don't give up and we will all be with you,"  That's what she's doing.

Infusions

December 23:  Back to Huntsman at Day Break for the first infusion of Avastin.  We were there about 3 1/2 hours for the first visit.  There are four stations where they do infusions.  They have a nice comfortable lounge chair for her and her own tv and another chair for the person who stays with her.  They first took blood samples and sent them to the lab to be processed before they would start the infusion.  There were three other people there receiving different kinds of infusions for varying reasons.  The blood results were slow coming back that morning so the infusion was delayed for about an hour. They didn't put a port in but found a vein in her arm that worked and hooked the iv up to her.  They want it to drip slowly for the first treatment to see if there are any adverse reactions.  She did well, slept a short time, and did not have any side effects from the drug.  The next time will not take as long and the one after that even shorter.  We are hoping this infusion will help with her headaches and energy level.

church

December 22:  Nanette was able to go to Sacrament meeting at church.  She enjoyed the music and narration and especially enjoyed being with her Ward friends and family.  It is a boost to her spirits to be with people who love and care about her.  The rest of the day was spent quietly at home with her family and visitors who came by.

Huntsman and Christmas Stories

December 17:  Nanette returned today to Huntsman Cancer Center in Salt Lake for an appointment with Dr. Colman, the oncologist who has been treating her from the beginning.  Again, her physical exam results were good, all her lab reports were within the normal range and encouraging and we all viewed the MRI which she had done on Friday.  There was no significant change to the picture of her brain from the initial one.  However, there were indications of swelling and they are inclined to believe the headache and dizziness discomfort she is experiencing is related to the swelling.  The radiation is not easy on a person, no matter where the location.   The doctor now wants her to start infusions of Avastin in addition to continuing with the steroids.  Avastin is an anti-anglogenic therapy and may prevent growth of new blood vessels that feed tumors.  He is hoping this will help with the swelling which would help alleviate the headaches.  She will start with the infusion of Avastin as soon as they can schedule it at Huntsman at  Day Break.  They want to start this procedure before she resumes chemo again.  She will have to have infusions ever;y two weeks and the procedure takes several hours.  She is holding up well in spite of the headaches and fatigue.  She still gets up early and showers and get dressed ready to face the day.  She has even been able to do a very small amount of Christmas shopping.  She reads Christmas stories and scriptures every night to Regan and Riley which has been a tradition in their family for many years.  She's missed out on some Christmas activities which she usually loves but she is still cheerful and thoughtful of others.  Their home is decorated beautifully for the season and she feels the Christmas spirit and peace.  Thank you all for your phone calls, gifts and visits.  She is so appreciative of your love and concern.

few steps back

December 9-13:  Nanette has taken a few steps back and has had a struggle this week.  She tolerated the radiation and chemo with relatively few side effects up to this point.  She expected to feel better now that the radiation was over.  However, she has been experiencing fairly severe headaches, dizziness and weakness in her legs, and fatigue.  She has stayed at home, missing her Ward Christmas party and Sergio's office get-together, and the Forgotten Carols so she could rest and try to get back on her feet.  We took her Friday to Huntsman in Salt Lake to see if there were any new developments.  The doctor was encouraged by the physical exam and her blood work results.  She also had an MRI which was originally scheduled for next week.  They said there were no new developments on the MRI but it was hard to determine exactly where she is at the present time.  They will use this MRI as a baseline to compare to monthly MRI's in the future.  It was generally determined that the fatigue and other discomforts are probably due to the radiation and chemo she has already had.  They have increased her steroid dosage for a few days hoping to help the effects of the treatment.  So, she is resting and hoping that she will feel much better in the weeks to come.

Stake Conference

December 8:  Nanette had a peaceful weekend with her family.  She was able to attend the Saturday night session and Sunday morning session of Stake Conference.  Sergio asked her to speak at the morning session of conference and she expressed her thanks to all those in the Stake who have reached out to her with concerns and wishes for her health.  She has been very grateful to all the people who have expressed their love for her family in prayers, thoughts and kind, thoughtful gestures.  She enjoyed seeing so many friends and being with all the people in the Stake whom she and Sergio have learned to love so much.  Thomas S. Monson said "Find joy in the journey" and Nanette has found that joy in the friends and family who have supported and loved her in this journey.

Last Day of Radiation

December 5:  Last day of radiation for Nanette!!!  She had her friend Shelley make delicious cupcakes to take to the Huntsman office staff, nurses, doctors, and technicians.  She has been so grateful for their kind ways and cheerful help and wanted to thank them in some small way.  After going for over six weeks, five days a week, the staff feel like family.  Each person there has been friendly, patient, and involved in her treatment plan.  In the beginning, it seemed a daunting task to go so many times for radiation but the time has passed quickly.  It was a tender mercy from the Lord that she had so many people help her through this time.  With the help of your thoughts, concerns, prayers, rides, encouragement, and love she made it.  They gave her the "mask" as a memento and she will look at it as a trophy rather than a trial.  She will now have 30 days without any chemo or radiation.  In several weeks, she will have an MRI which will give the oncologist a baseline to track further developments and progress.  They have warned her not to make too much of the results from this first MRI because it can look worse, maybe better, or the same.  They will use this MRI just as a baseline and nothing more at this point.  After the 30-day rest, she will resume taking chemo pills for five days on, 23 days off and that will continue for 6-12 months.  They will also start to wean her off the steroids a little at a time but will monitor her closely.  The next 30 days will be a time to recover, rest and recuperate.  Updates to the blog will continue, although maybe not as frequently.  Thank you again for all your calls and visits and your support.  You are the friends and family who have lifted her up and sustained her and expressed such a tremendous outpouring of love and concern for her and her family.  "A blessing is anything that moves us closer to God" and this trial and all of you have been a blessing in her life.  

Jared

December 4:  Second to the last day of radiation for Nanette.  Jared got off work earlier than usual so he wanted to drive Nanette to her treatment.  Sidewalks and roads were icy and he held her hand tightly back to the car after her treatment.  So many people have helped drive her to Huntsman  Cancer Center and she's enjoyed visits with each friend but going with Jared have been some of  her favorite days. She took her last chemo pill (now a 30 day rest) and again the radiation treatment went well and it was hard to believe she only has one more.  Lots of sunshine on the other side of the mountain while it continued to snow in Tooele.

Four Days to Go!!

December 2-3:  Back to radiation but on the home stretch.  Just four days this week and then she is through with the radiation treatments.  It sounded like a long haul when we started at the beginning of six weeks (5 days a week) but she is almost there.  The weather has been wonderful until today with the first big snow storm of the season,  But we drove slowly and carefully (trying to remember that winter can prepare us for the loveliness of spring).  The doctor said her lab reports were still good although her platelets are slightly lower.  He said they were not overly concerned at this point but are going to continue monitoring her carefully.  Her headaches have decreased but she has been having a mild problem with reflux and she's taking medication to help with that.  She takes her last chemo pill Tuesday night then radiation Wednesday and Thursday and then 30 days of rest from it all before she starts the chemo again.  

Bear their Burdens with Ease!

November 27-30:  Four days vacation from radiation to celebrate Thanksgiving.  Nanette's brother Tony and sister-in-law Cristie both had a chance to drive Nanette to radiation and were able to see the set-up for the procedure and then Nanette had the four days to relax and be with her entire family (except for Nick, serving a mission in Ecuador).  We had a nice week all together and Nanette felt good the whole week.  We were all very thankful to be together this holiday and grateful that Nanette is tolerating the treatment so well.  Her positive attitude, patience, and sweet disposition are a source of comfort to all of us and we were so grateful to be together this year.  In Mosiah are these words of comfort..."And...the Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease, and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord."  That describes Nanette at this time in her life.

Chatty but not Cranky

Chatty but not Cranky - November 27th

Monday and Tuesday radiation treatments have gone as well as can be expected. Nanette's two oldest sons have driven her the last two days with Jared taking the reins on Monday and Tyler on Tuesday. It is always nice for Nanette to get to spend time with two of her boys. Jared was off work and Tyler is home for the Thanksgiving week from BYU and both wanted to go in support of their mother. On Monday nightwith Tony and his family in town a family home evening night was planned and it included good food and a fun game of Book of Mormon Bunco. It was the first time in awhile that Nanette had her entire immediate and extended family under one roof with the exception of Nick in Ecuador. It was definitely a fun night and especially for Regan and Riley who love to play with their cousins. In a recent visit to Huntsman in SLC the doctor asked Nanette and Sergio if Nanette was experiencing any increased crankiness as a result of the steroids and radiation. Sergio was quick to respond, "Not crankiness but chattiness!" As many of you know over the past month Nanette has become quite chatty and often makes calls to family and friends to recount the stories of the day and the last month. Sometimes she evens chats up the waitresses, Walmart clerks, and the managers of stores she visits telling them all the same stories even though she just met them. She very much enjoys these phone calls and conversations. Thank you to all who take her calls and who lend a listening ear. The genuine care you show her makes a difference and helps Nanette to feel loved and cared for. She also loves to get calls from friends and family so if you are ever prompted to call, please do not hesitate to do so as chances are Nanette has a story or two she'd love to share with you.

Helpful Hand

Helpful Hand - November 25th

Monday morning early her sister-in-law Debbie left to return to her own family in California.  She has been here for over three weeks and Nanette has enjoyed having her.  She went with us almost every morning to radiation, did grocery shopping, prepared meals, cleaned the kitchen, and even had time to go to lunch with us celebrating a good day after treatments.  Her concern and care for Nanette and her family has been deeply appreciated.  She has been almost constantly with Nanette and her help and love have been immeasurable. She went for a short walk out in the brisk air and warm sunshine when she got home and she is doing well.

Heart of a Champion

Heart of a Champion - November 24th

The weekend brought friends and family from Nanette's hometown of Ramona, California to visit Tooele. Nanette's brother Tony from Ramona and his family arrived on Saturday and the energy from having her niece and nephews visit was a boost to not only Nanette but also Regan and Riley. Sunday we all attended church and Nanette for the first time wore her wig in public and it certainly helped her feel beautiful again. Sacrament meeting was inspiring as it focused on gratitude for our Savior, Jesus Christ and His sacrifice for us all. This particular challenge faced by Nanette and her family has brought us all closer to our Savior as we have asked in prayer for the Savior's healing touch to be upon Nanette and we are all very grateful for the sweet tender mercies that have been extended to her and all of us through our interactions with ward members, friends and family. Please know how grateful Nanette is for all that has been done on her behalf and towards her family. Sunday afternoon brought a visit from Kenny and Susan Carr from Ramona. Susan was Nanette's seminary teacher and it was great to listen to them tell stories about Nanette in her teenage days. Nanette in turn shared with us all the many faith promoting experiences she has had since the fateful day in October when her life changed upon hearing the diagnosis. Later that night, Susan Carr sent a text to Tony and said that sitting and listening to Nanette share her testimony on faith, the priesthood and gratitude was like having a personal General Conference session because the Spirit was so strong and definitely felt by all. Before leaving, the Carrs gave Nanette a gift and when she opened the bag it was a shirt with the words "Heart of a Champion" on the front. Susan explained that when she saw the shirt she immediately said, "that is Nanette." Each day we are all continually amazed at the strength Nanette possesses and demonstrates and she truly does have the Heart of a Champion

Enjoying the scenery

Wednesday, November 20:  Nanette went to Huntsman at Day Break for her usual radiation treatment.  Then we took her to the Huntsman Center in Salt Lake for an appointment with Dr. Colman, the oncologist.  Some weeks had passed since she saw Dr. Colman.  Both Sean, the PA, and the doctor assessed her treatment results so far and were pleased with her progress.  Her lab results continue to be exactly where they want them to be.  She is responding well to her medications and has had few side effects.  The headaches she was experiencing are being managed with a slight increase in the steroids.  Her fatigue is well within the range expected with her treatments.  Side effects from the treatment have probably peaked at this time so she may be on the downhill side of the radiation/chemo regiment.  Both Dr. Colman and Sean were encouraged by her sweet disposition, her positive attitude, and her general good health and lack of serious side effects.  Again, they told us that statistics are just statistics and don't take in to account her young age and determination. This cancer, glioblastoma, is one of the more uncommon brain tumors and only 16% of the total brain tumors being treated in the US.  Nanette looks good, remains optimistic and grateful for all your prayers, thoughts and concerns.  Walter Winchell once said "An optimist is a man who is chased up a tree by a lion but enjoys the scenery anyway."  Nanette is our "optimist".

November 15:  Today marked the end of the fourth week of treatment for Nanette.  It was snowing when we left Tooele but there were only snow flurries on the other side of the mountain.  The machine was functioning correctly today and it was a quick trip.  There are some other people from Tooele who are scheduled right after Nanette's appointment and we are becoming "treatment" friends.  The man has throat and tongue cancer and his sister drives him in from Tooele every day for radiation and then once a week to the VA Hospital for a chemo infusion.  There are lots of people you meet flighting cancer.  It is evident how important family and friends' support is to each of them.  At the dance festivalWednesday night, one of the Wards did a routine to "Seize the Day" from the Broadway hit "Newsies".  Some of the lyrics are "Arise and seize the day...don't be afraid and don't delay, nothing can break us....one for all and all for one."  We feel that is what family and friends' support, love and prayers are - "nothing can break us - one for all and all for one."  Thanks to all of you for your constant and caring support and love.

November 14:  Huntsman called early to report that the radiation machine was down and it was doubtful she would get a treatment.  Last time this happened, it was a quick fix and we were able to take her for the treatment.  But, this time, the machine took all day to fix.  Nanette was disappointed that she will have the day tacked on to the end of her schedule.  However, the machine will not function if there is the slightest problem and because it is such a precise procedure, Nanette was grateful that they are so careful about the machine working properly.  Just a small glitch in her schedule.

November 13:  A good friend of Nanette's drove her today to radiation.  She enjoys the time she has to visit with friends during the drive.  She did well again and has been feeling good.  The doctor has increased the steroid dosage slightly and it seems to help with her headaches.  She has been able to manage them with Tylenol only.  Sergio's brother Jose (Debbie's husband) arrived today for a week's stay.  Having family around helps pass the time and another hand is always helpful.  Nanette wanted to attend her Stake's Dance Festival in the evening and she was able to stay for the entire hour.  It was a delightful evening and each  Ward's dance was great.  What a wonderful group of young people in their Stake

Happy Veterans Day!!!!

Monday, November 11:    Nanette had a good restful weekend.  Tyler came home from BYU for the weekend so we were happy to have him with us.  Sergio and Nanette went out to an early dinner with good friends and enjoyed their time together.  Saturday was a beautiful day again and their neighbor Keith Bird helped Sergio, Jared and Tyler put the Christmas lights up on the house.  They turned them on at night so Nanette could see them but will wait until after Thanksgiving to turn them on for real.    Huntsman called early today and said the radiation machine was not working and canceled Nanette's appointment.  They called shortly thereafter and said it was fixed and to come for the treatment.  It was Veterans' Day and Jared, our family veteran, drove us to the center. We were grateful she didn't have to skip today because it would add a day on to the end.  We met with the doctor after her treatment and he said her lab report was very good.  Her immune system remains good and her white blood cell count was up a little too, which is encouraging.  She is still experiencing headaches and they are increasing the steroid dosage a little bit and attempting to manage the pain with medication.  After the treatment, we celebrated the good lab report and Veterans Day by eating at Applebee's.  They were offering all veterans a free lunch today so Jared didn't have to pay!    Nanette continues to tire easily and is napping and pacing herself each day.  Thank you all for the phone calls and encouraging words on this blog.  She is surrounded by wonderful friends and family.  

You Can't Have a Rainbow Without a Little Rain

Thursday, November 7: Regan read me this saying today:   "Everyone wants happiness.  No one wants pain.  But, you can't have a rainbow without a little rain".   It was a good day to hear those words because Nanette's hair has started to fall out.  She knew this was a real possibility.  Many had prepared her for this event!  However, when it started happening, it was like having a little rain in her life.  Her friend Melody came to the rescue and cut most of her hair off and Nanette is hoping that this will help a little with the soreness on her scalp.  She was one of about five women we saw at Huntsman today with hats on in the same situation.  She has several cute hats (and a wig waiting to be used) so she was prepared for this loss.  Still, she is cheerful, grateful, and optimistic and willing to do whatever she can to fight this battle.  Losing her hair is just a little "rain".

A Note from Nanette

Family and Friends, I can never thank you enough for all the kind words, cards and love you have shown me and my family. I would try to respond individually, but right now I can't read my own writing! I do believe in miracles too so i think I'm in pretty good shape considering all the prayers on my behalf. I am so lucky and so grateful. You know when Kaylen passed away I prayed that if my family had another challenge because we do face them because we learn so many valuable eternal lessons that I prayed it would be me that could go through not one of my children or my husband and that i could have a fighting chance and thats exactly what happened so I'm at peace. I have been given amazing blessings and I know the Lord answers prayers so its all going to be OK, but again I can't thank you enough for all your love, prayers and support. Love to you all, Nanette

Laughter in the other room

Wednesday, November 6:  Three weeks of radiation completed.  She will have 33 total treatments so the end date will be December 4.  She is still tolerating the chemo pills and has not been sick on that  front.  The radiation continues every week day.  The commute continues to be easy with only one day of snow flurries (much heavier snow in Salt Lake but not out our way).  Some days when we get to the Huntsman center, the room is full of others waiting for their chemo infusions or radiation treatments.  There are so many people in similar situations and we are getting to know some of them.  Nanette always has a friendly smile for the staff there and words of encouragement for others receiving treatments.  Sometimes when we are out in the waiting room, we hear her laughter in the other room with the staff.  The radiation is beginning to tire her out, although she keeps going throughout the day and usually a short nap restores her energy.  She feels some burning on her scalp and she continues to have headaches almost every day, which is not unusual and manageable at this point.  She doesn't complain about any of it and she tries to stay positive. 

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Halloween

Thursday, October 31:  The beautiful weather is holding for her trips to Huntsman.  She was running a low-grade fever in the evening but it settled down in the night.  She helped Regan and Riley get ready for Halloween "trick or treating" and she sat in the living room for awhile while Sergio handed out candy to a few hundred kids at the door.  Her sister-in-law Debbie (Sergio's brother Jose's wife) arrived today from California and will be staying with us for about three weeks.  Nanette is glad to have her here for awhile.. 

Two weeks complete

Wednesday, October 30:  Today marks the end of the first two weeks of radiation and chemo for Nanette.  She has been tolerating the treatments fairly well, although she has had a headache for several days.  It is not unusual for someone getting this particular treatment to be experiencing headaches; however, the doctors are monitoring her every day.  We had three friends help drive her to radiation this week and she enjoyed and appreciated the rides with them.  She is in good spirits.

Family Exodus

October 28:  Two days rest from radiation (Saturday and Sunday) and back today.  Regan and Riley didn't have school today so it was a big family exodus to Huntsman - Jared, Nanette's dad Frank, Regan and Riley and me.  It was good for the girls to see where she goes everyday. It was busy there today and Mondays the doctor visits with her so it took a little longer.  Her blood work was fine and she's doing well with the treatments.  We next went upstairs in the center to talk to a nutritionist who had helpful ideas and suggestions.  She said to be sure to eat proteins and carbohydrates together and don't megadose on anything (vitamins or food).  It was fun to have the twins with us and we made a fun day out of it.  We first watched the player piano play a few tunes and we sat in all the different and unique chairs they have in the lobby.  Then our treat for the day was going to lunch and having crab cakes (Nanette's choice and craving).  We laughed a lot and had a good time.  She was a little tired when we got home but she enjoyed the day with some of her family.  We have noticed how many people bring family members and friends with them for radiation, especially when they first start the treatments.  A young man and his wife and baby girl came in while we were there.  He has colon rectal cancer and came for his radiation treatments.  This isn't an easy experience and having your family and friends' support makes it easier.  Thanks to all of you who have called, visited, helped in every way possible.

Wig shopping

October 24:  Again to radiation in the morning.  The weather has really been cooperating with our daily adventure!  The fall colors are vibrant and help us to be grateful for the world we live in.  After her session today we visited a wig salon and found one that looked like Nanette's hair color and style.  She has been warned that her hair will probably be coming out in chunks soon.  Most people have advised her to just "buzz" her head when this happens so she is planning ahead.  They encouraged her to wear the wig a little bit to get used to it and to have fun styling it so she is comfortable with the style and feel of it.  The women in the salon were very encouraging to her and had helpful advice.  Picking out a wig for when your hair falls out doesn't sound like the "sweet" experience we like to have after radiation but it turned out to be fun.  Nanette's positive attitude and determination are helping all of us.

One week complete

October 23:  Today marked the end of the first week of radiation for Nanette.  She started the first real treatment last Thursday and so one week of the six required is completed.  She has not had any nausea from taking the chemo pills and she's handling that part very well.  The radiation doesn't take long and she has tolerated the first week without any problems.  She is aware that side effects will probably occur the longer she goes with the treatment.  Sergio, Jared, her dad and I were invited to visit the room where the radiation takes place.  We got to see the mesh mask they place on her face and the huge radiation machine that rotates and beams the radiation on to the marks on the mask.  No one is allowed in the room while the radiation is taking place.  The two technicians observe the entire process from a separate room and watch her on monitors.  The staff at the Huntsman satellite office are extremely informative and helpful.  For the present time, Nanette  is feeling fairly well.  She gets up in the morning, showers, dresses and functions well all day long, only really tiring later in the day and evening.  She's been fixing dinner at night, although it hasn't been labor intensive meals and she loves taking care of her family.  She loves to take all your calls and enjoys visiting with everyone who visits or calls.  A big thanks to all those women who have provided transportation for her girls to school, church activities, and play dates.  So many of you have helped in so many, many ways.  Please know you all have our deepest appreciation

Please Allow 18 hours for Miracles

Thursday, October 17:  Nanette went to her first radiation treatment.  She had to start the chemotherapy pills the night before.  She took anti-nausea  medication before she took the chemo pill and had no side effects for the first time.  Sergio took her to her first radiation treatment at the Huntsman satellite office at Day Break.  She had weathered the dry run the day before so she wasn't too nervous for the real thing.  The treatment went well and she is doing fine.  One down and only 29 more to go but she's just marking off days accomplished and not looking ahead to days remaining.  Read this quote the other day: "Possible can be done immediately; we're already working on the impossible; but please allow 18 hours for miracles."

Testimonies and Treatment

Wednesday, October 16:  Nanette has been doing very well the last few days.  She was able to  attend all three hours of church on Sunday and enjoyed being there with her friends and hearing the testimonies given.  She also bore her testimony and expressed her gratitude for all the love and support she has received from the Ward members and neighbors and friends.  She expressed her faith and hope for the future.  She remains positive and upbeat.  Her father arrived from California on Monday and will be here for many weeks to help and support her.  She still gets many visits from friends and family and she enjoys that very much .  Today (Wednesday, October 16) her dad and I took her to the Huntsman Center at Day Break for a "dry run" of her radiation treatment.  The doctors and technicians want to be sure everything is correctly in place before starting the real radiation treatment tomorrow.    She had a mesh mask made last week at the Huntsman Center.  They put the mask over her face and it is secured to the table so there is minimal movement of her head.  The mask has the eyes, nose and mouth cut out of it so it is not too restrictive.  The actual process takes about 30 minutes, 15 of those minutes involve the actual radiation. She is taking the chemo pills simultaneously with the radiation.   It went well today and she thinks she can do this - even for  30 more days.  Sergio will take her to the first two treatments Thursday and Friday and then she has two days of rest from the radiation, although she continues every day with the chemo pills.  She has been fully informed of side effects that may occur and she is determined to start fighting the tumor in every way possible. As planned, we followed the "necessary" business with something pleasant and went to breakfast at Village Inn and it was "free pie" day.    We hit it right today! 

Adiós familia Abarca

Friday, October 11:  Family is everything to Nanette and Sergio and today they said goodbye to Sergio's parents and two sisters Rose and Maria who returned to San Diego.  They were a tremendous help and support to their family and the Mexican meals were delicious too!  Nanette went to Dr. Morrill this morning to get prescription sunglasses.  She's not able to wear her contact lenses and her eyes will be sensitive to light once the chemo and radiation begin next week.  She also had a nice visit today from four of the five Kolowich sisters, formerly from Ramona, now living in Utah.  She is grateful for the beautiful day it is and for feeling relatively good.    

The Next Step

 The next step for Nanette is a "dry-run" at Huntsman in South Jordan on Wednesday, October 16.  They will run through the procedure to make sure everything is the same as it was today.  Then she will take her first chemo pill that night and they will start radiation the next day, Thursday, October 17.  She has about six days now to enjoy being home with her family and friends before the treatments.  Her spirits are good and she is doing well today.

Hooky, mask, witches, and Kaylen...

Wednesday, October 9:  Today started early at 6:30.  Nanette, Rosie and Maria (Sergio's two sisters), Regan and Riley (they got to play hooky today from school) and I went to the Huntsman Center once again.  This time Nanette was fit with the mask and mapping they will need for radiation.  It took about 45 minutes.  The mask is mesh and wet when they put it on and then it dries and tightens so she got slightly claustrophobic.  They will probably give her a light sedative the first couple of sessions.  Once again they told her of the discomforts she may experience while going through this process.  She is well informed of the process and the consequences; however, reality will be a different experience but she is ready to make the journey.  She was feeling very well today.  She looks good, has lots of energy (although she tires easily) and is like the "energizer bunny".  We decided that when we do something not so pleasant, we will follow up with something fun and uplifting (as long as she can manage).  So, today we made a visit to the Salt Lake cemetery to visit Kaylen's grave and share funny and poignant memories we all have.  Then we made our annual visit to Gardner Village to enjoy the Halloween atmosphere and witches.  It was a beautiful day and Rosie and Maria loved their first visit there.  Nanette walked some and used the traveling wheelchair as we visited every witch.  This is an Abarca tradition.  Then she wanted to go to Zupas for lunch which she enjoyed.  Her appetite remains good and she eats small amounts but often.  We made a short stop at Kohls for a bit of shopping and by then, all of us were tired, including Nanette.

Fighting Chance

Tuesday, October 8:  Nanette, Sergio and I went to Huntsman today for another consultation with Dr. Coleman.  Both the PA and Dr. Coleman could see a vast improvement in her health since the first visit.  She was engaged in all the discussions and instructions.    She's not in any pain except for an occasional mild pulsing in her head.  Her appetite is good and she has been going all day long with only a short rest now and then. .She had another pleasant day today.  She has enjoyed all the notes, cards, calls and visits from so many people.  Everyone has been so thoughtful bringing homemade bread, cookies, flowers, gifts and meals.  She is very grateful to have so many friends and family.  Her outlook is positive and she feels that she has a "fighting chance" with good doctors and care and prayers and thoughts of so many people. .

Daybreak Huntsman and S'Mores

Monday, October 7:  Nanette, Jared, Rosie (Sergio's sister) and I went to her appointment at the Huntsman Radiation Center at Day Break in South Jordan.  She met with the nurses, the resident and Dr. Anker who will be her doctor for the duration of the treatment.  She was informed that she could have the radiation there.instead of Huntsman.  She will probably choose to do the treatments there because it would be an easier commute, maybe not in miles but convenience and location. It is the same radiation machine and techniques they use at Huntsman with the same doctors.   She wanted to go to lunch after the appointment.  She was feeling well and enjoyed being out in the sunshine and fresh air. She was able to enjoy a short Family Home Evening and s'mores with friends in the evening..  It was a good day for her.

General Conference

Sunday, October 6:  Nanette and Sergio went to the Sunday morning session of General Conference.  She was feeling good and she was excited to be going.  She was able to use the traveling chair to navigate into the Conference Center and they had seats on about the fourth row.  She thought the talks given that morning were especially for her comfort and benefit and they both felt the Spirit testify of the truths spoken.  A little bonus of the morning was meeting Mitt and Ann Romney, Elder Russell M. Nelson and Sister Nelson, shaking hands with Elder L. Tom Perry, and Elder S. Gifford Nielsen.  The rest of the day was spent visiting with friends and family.

Tyler and a Day of Spanish

Saturday, October 5:  She watched quite a bit of Saturday's sesson of General Conference.  Her son Tyler came home from BYU to spend time with her and Sergio's family.  It was his first visit with his Abarca grandparents and aunts since he came home from his mission.  She had many visitors that day.  Her cousins on the Cluff side of the family came to  spend the afternoon with her and the family.  She enjoys all the visits.  It was a fun day and Spanish was the language of the day with so many family members, on both sides of the family,  fluent in Spanish.

cheerful

Friday, October 4:  She is getting up fairly early in the morning, taking a shower and getting dressed.  Her appetite is good.  She is on steroids (to control the swelling in the brain) and medicine to prevent seizures (sometimes an after-effect from brain surgery).  She has some vision problems with her left eye which makes reading difficult.  She loves to read so this is frustrating for her.  She is still watching Fox news when she can to keep informed of the world's happenings.  She is rather talkative and restless which we think is attributed to the steroids.  She is cheerful and remains upbeat and pleasant.  The outpouring of love and prayers for her remains constant and is such a blessing in her life.

Family, Walmart, and Treatment Plans

Tuesday, October 1:  Some of the Abarca family members arrived from California.  Sergio's parents and two of his sisters, Rosie and Maria, came to spend nine days with them.  Nanette was thrilled to see them.  She is visiting with therm and enjoying their company.  She went with his sisters to WalMart for a short shopping trip.  She's not allowed to drive so we are taking turns taking her where she wants to go.  She tires easily and uses a traveling wheel chair but she is determined to get out and have a change of scenery.  We are in a "holding pattern" while she heals and gets stronger so they can start her radiation and chemo at the Huntsman Cancer Center.  They will do both treatments simultaneously.  She will go five days a week for six weeks for the radiation and then that will end the radiation.  She will continue with the chemo (a pill) for many months after.

Simple Joy of Washing Your Hair

Monday, September 30:  Sergio returned to work.  Jared and I took Nanette to her appointment with the surgeon.  He removed the staples from her head and said the incision was healing nicely.  He had not shaved her hair for the operation and said she could now wash her hair.  That was the highlight of her day - washing her hair.  Her friend Melody had cut her hair to make it more manageable.

Church

Sunday, September 29:  Nanette went to Sacrament meeting.  She really enjoyed seeing the friends in the Ward.  She was tired and ready to go home but she liked being at church.  She kept herself warm with the beautiful quilt that her twins Regan and Riley made for her with the help and kindness of her neighbor and friend Isa Ventura.  Elder Clark of the Seventy visited the Ward and then had a sweet visit with Nanette and Sergio in their home.

September 24-September 28 Outpouring of Love, Trip to Huntsman

Tuesday, September 24 - Saturday, September 28:  She has been resting, as much as Nanette can rest, and has had visits from so many friends and family.  So many Ward and Stake members of the Church, neighbors and friends - old and new - and members of their families, have visited, brought flowers, provided meals, help with transportation for the girls, and offered prayers and well wishes for her.  She has enjoyed having people visit and can tolerate short visits very well.


Wednesday, September 26:  Nanette's first visit to Huntsman Cancer Center.  A new road that hundreds of other people have already traveled.  What a wonderful facility.  It is difficult to feel sorry for yourself when you see so many other people with every variation of cancer.  It was an intense three hours.  Nanette was still recovering from surgery and a little restless to sit through three hours of information and instruction.  She met with the nurses, PA, Doctor Coleman, the social worker, and others.  The plan is to start radiation and chemo simultaneously 4-6 weeks from date of surgery.  Radiation will be six weeks, five days a week.  Radiation will cease at that time and she will continue with rounds of chemo for many weeks after that.  She has ups and downs every day and she is making it through each day.  She is one tough cookie and staying positive.  We relate to Nanette every comment, wish, prayer and concern from every friend and family member.

Monday, September 23 Wild Horses

Monday, September 23:  Nanette was released from the hospital a few days early but the doctor felt that Sergio would be with her and could monitor her progress.  She was anxious to come home and "wild horses" probably couldn't have stopped her.

September 19-23 Blessings

Thursday September 19 to Monday September 23:  Nanette and Sergio had a wonderful visit from Elder Summerrhays of the Seventy and both received a Priesthood blessing from him.  Their friend Jared Bunn also came to the hospital immediately and Sergio and Jared also gave her a Priesthood blessing.  Elder Lance Wickman, Seventy emeritus, called Sergio and Nanette to convey his prayers and concern for them.  Elder Wickman had been their Stake President in California for years.  She had many friends and family visit her and enjoyed having the company.  She was very cognizant of her surroundings and the friends and family who came to see her.  Their sons Jared and Tyler, daughters Regan and Riley, her brother Robert, and her mother were with her at the hospital.  The outpouring of love and concern for her was significant and appreciated.  Their son Nick had just arrived in the Ecuador Mission to serve two years for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  They were able to talk to him and encourage him to stay on his mission and do the Lord's work.  He assured them he would and pray daily for his mother's recovery and have faith in the future.  Nanette's brother Tony came from California and stayed for five days to help and to spend time with Nanette.  Sergio's brother Jose and wife Debbie also came from California and stayed for more than a week to help in every way possible.

September 19 2013 Discovery

Thursday, September 19:  Nanette was experiencing headaches and dizziness and admitted to St. Marks Hospital in Salt Lake.  She had an MRI and Cat scan and was diagnosed with a fast-growing brain tumor.  Surgery was scheduled for the next morning and lasted four hours.  The tumor was on the right side of her brain and was about the size of a tennis ball.  The surgeon removed as much of the tumor as possible; however, all of it could not be removed without significant damage to the brain.  The doctor said the operation went as well as expected; however, he was fairly certain his initial diagnosis was correct and pathology did confirm that is is glioblasphoma.  The prognosis is not good.  He explained facts and statistics and gave us a fairly dim view of the future.  Sergio fully informed Nanette of the operation and outcome and possible future.  From the very moment she heard the facts, she has chosen to believe and have faith in a different future and will trust her life to the Lord.