Weekend Update

It's been a busy weekend for Mary and the entire family, and we apologize for not updating everyone sooner. Friday was a good day overall, David relieved Jenni Giertz during the day and Greg and Adam arrived about 5:00. Mary was active with her walking and was still feeling very little side effects from the chemo. She was very excited to have the majority of her family here, including Amy, Brian and the girls! Initially we were told by one of the doctors on the team that they didn't want any small kids here in the room with Mary, but that was quickly overruled by her head Dr. (Ogla), she said that as long as they were not sick that she WANTS them in here! It made Mary's night to have three of her grandkids in here to see her. The kids took her for some walks, and just their activity in the room was bringing her a lot of joy.

Saturday started out with Greg and Adam spending time with Mary, she started to get fatigued because of her blood being low again. Throughout the day she received two pints of blood and that brought her energy levels back up quite a bit. She took a few naps throughout the morning and afternoon, and she was happy to get some rest knowing that she was going to get to watch Tiffany and Chris' wedding and reception on Skype. Chris and Tiff worked hard for her to be able to be part of their day and we are very happy they did! For those of you who are unaware of what Skype is, it's a internet based phone/video service that allows you to do videoconferencing through the computer. We've been so excited to use Skype because she's had the chance to talk "face to face" with family that could not be there with her in person. This also allowed her to watch the majority of the wedding reception, and everyone there got the chance to come over and talk to her and Greg as they were sitting in the hospital bed together. Although she could not be there for the wedding or reception, it sure brought her a lot of happiness to see all of her family and friends wishing her well and showing her how much they love her and are praying for her. Her friends Bonnie and Larry spent the afternoon and evening visiting her and Greg. Visitors have continued to show up in strong numbers, and we encourage people to come to the hospital anytime they are able.

Today (Sunday) Mary has started experiencing some of the true side effects of the chemo. She had a challenging night in regards to getting sleep and she's been starting to get some sores in her mouth that are causing her a great deal of discomfort. Please be praying for these side effects and that she can continue to have a positive attitude like we've seen her have since she arrived here in the hospital.

"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfector of our faith." Hebrews 12:2
As Peter jumped out of the boat to walk on water toward Jesus...his eyes only needed to be focused on Jesus to stay afloat. The minute his eyes looked down or when he saw the wind...he began to fear. We pray for Mary's eyes to be fixed upon Jesus so no fear can creep in!