Thank you all for your love and support for the family. We know mom had so many friends and treated them like family because we have been treated like family by so many of you. Thank you all for coming to mom's homecoming. She is having a party in heaven. Today we placed mom's earthly body in her place of remembrance, Forest Lawn Mortuary, Cypress. Although we can visit this place as often as we like, we know in our hearts that Mom is watching us from heaven.
love you, Ron, Juli and Robbi
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Christmas 08
Christmas 2008
Dear Friends and Family
Wow! We have learned so much this year. What is our purpose in life? Jesus Christ was born with a special purpose to save the world and give each one an opportunity to be united with the Awesome God of all creation. Jesus Christ served his purpose and that is why we celebrate his birth and also his death and resurrection. God loved us so much and the Takai family knows that, especially through one of His special children, our mom. God’s amazing love has shined through her throughout her 75 years. She has touched so many people throughout her life and we have been her main recipients. How wonderful to be able to celebrate such a life. We were able to celebrate Mom’s Birthday on December 14th, her actual birthday. What a blessing it was to have so many people that loved mom and those she has loved, together in one room. That was one of her best days in the last two weeks, since we got the news on Dec. 3rd, of the cancer being in her brain and spine. The day before the party, she slept most of the day and hardly smiled. Only when she heard the preview of Brittany, Mark and Rilee, singing her birthday song, did we see her mouth turn upward. Then at the party, she smiled so much, greeted her friends & family and truly enjoyed the day.
When mom was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in several parts of her body, primarily in her lungs, in January of this year, we were devastated. The first thing mom said, as we were all crying was, “You know what, God has blessed my life so much already , if my life is done, it has been such a good life, it is nothing to be sad about.” How could the rest of us continue to be down, when such a strong statement is made from the one who has the disease? So I think mom went through all the suffering and the treatments for us, because she was already so thankful for all the blessings that she has had throughout her life. What a privilege it has been to have the gift of her presence for this one more year. Throughout this year she has continued to touch so many lives. She wrote her autobiography, spent what time she could with her bowling group, neighbors, golfing group, church and other friends and family, and through it all, taught us how to love each other even more. Thank you for being a part of mom’s life.
Now this would not be a Christmas letter in mom’s eyes if we didn’t tell you more of what went on this year. In February, Ron and June invited Mom, Dad, Robbi and Juli to go on their 25th anniversary trip to Hawaii. We enjoyed being together so much. Robbi and Juli’s children were left under the care of their very capable husbands, Mike and Kirk, and extended friends and family, while they were in Hawaii. We celebrated their 25th with a big party at Robbi and Mike’s clubhouse, along with Mom and Dad’s 55th at the end of April. Another family event was watching Rilee perform as Molly in the Brea Stage Production, Annie, in July. She’s such a joy to watch. As for the other “wonderful grandkids”, Jeff continues to impress his professors at UOP dental school in San Francisco, and has also taken up rock climbing and biking. Brittany continues to take on so many responsibilities and social events while studying at UCLA. Mitchell is playing on his high school, sophmore basketball team and also SEYO basketball. Matt, is in 6th grade and also plays in a few basketball leagues, he’s great at stealing the ball and somehow get’s the loose balls. He is happiest when he’s on the court and smiling from ear to ear. Rilee also started basketball this year to add to her busy theatrical schedule, but enthusiastically does it all. Jackson is in 1st grade this year and finished his soccer season as a great defensive player and will be starting in a basketball league in January. Anyways, God truly has blessed our family. Since I wrote this letter, mom has gone to be with our Heavenly Father. Again she is her bubbly self, enjoying a disease free body and talking face to face with Jesus. We have been so blessed by her presence and we continue to reap the benefits of her love and prayers for us. Thank you to each of you that have helped by cooking, caring, notes, phone calls, taking her to appointments, visiting and prayers. We love you all and wish you the Merriest Christmas and a New Year filled with a Special Love from above.
Love, Don and Dottie
On behalf of Ron, Robbi and Juli
P.S. forgive me for this lengthy letter, Through all the years that I’ve formatted mom’s Christmas letters for her, she wanted me to fit it on one page. I’m sure she will understand, and you will too.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
My update thrrough Radiation
Hello to my dear family and friends,
It's been since the 16th of October since I connected with all of you. I stared my radiation from the 15th of October every day during the week. I will be getting radiation daily during the week only. I will receive 12 sessions of radiation and was finished on Thursday Nov.30th. I felt pretty good until the last week of my radiation when the Nurse said I will start feeling a bit tired. They really know how a person should be feeling with this Radiation. On Monday the 27th of Nov. I thought I had a cold cause my throat was so sore, I couldn't swallow. I was relieved It wasn't a cold any way.
Now folks God allows my son Ron and June and dad come with me to the Drs. appointments cause they listen and hear thinks I forget. During my appointment with the Radiologist with Dr. Hafer on the 14th of Oct. before I started my radiation, my son remembers all what the doctor said I will be feeling.
He makes a list for me and says, Mom your esophagus will get irritated and will take 2 to 3 weeks to heal or feel better. Expect to feel very tired from the radiation treatment. That is normal and it will take 3 or 4 weeks to get back your energy. He said to do what I want, but if I feel tired to slow down.
Saw Dr, Nanci my oncologist yesterday and she scheduled me for another ct scan on November 25, so she said now is to time to relax and enjoy the things I want and to go places we want to go. All this is written on Ron's note pad and he emails me so I will have a copy. Eat small meals and cut up my food into small pieces. I thank God for all my children who are always calling and wondering how I am doing.
We will all take a trip or something very soon. Maybe to San Diego or somewhere close. So thank you all for being such support for me and I will continue my blog when I see the Dr. in December after my ct scan. Love your continued prayers, cards , thoughts and support. Love seeing all of you at church. Come all the holidays will remember to take pictures of my loving famly and place them in the blog. Much Love don, dottie and family
It's been since the 16th of October since I connected with all of you. I stared my radiation from the 15th of October every day during the week. I will be getting radiation daily during the week only. I will receive 12 sessions of radiation and was finished on Thursday Nov.30th. I felt pretty good until the last week of my radiation when the Nurse said I will start feeling a bit tired. They really know how a person should be feeling with this Radiation. On Monday the 27th of Nov. I thought I had a cold cause my throat was so sore, I couldn't swallow. I was relieved It wasn't a cold any way.
Now folks God allows my son Ron and June and dad come with me to the Drs. appointments cause they listen and hear thinks I forget. During my appointment with the Radiologist with Dr. Hafer on the 14th of Oct. before I started my radiation, my son remembers all what the doctor said I will be feeling.
He makes a list for me and says, Mom your esophagus will get irritated and will take 2 to 3 weeks to heal or feel better. Expect to feel very tired from the radiation treatment. That is normal and it will take 3 or 4 weeks to get back your energy. He said to do what I want, but if I feel tired to slow down.
Saw Dr, Nanci my oncologist yesterday and she scheduled me for another ct scan on November 25, so she said now is to time to relax and enjoy the things I want and to go places we want to go. All this is written on Ron's note pad and he emails me so I will have a copy. Eat small meals and cut up my food into small pieces. I thank God for all my children who are always calling and wondering how I am doing.
We will all take a trip or something very soon. Maybe to San Diego or somewhere close. So thank you all for being such support for me and I will continue my blog when I see the Dr. in December after my ct scan. Love your continued prayers, cards , thoughts and support. Love seeing all of you at church. Come all the holidays will remember to take pictures of my loving famly and place them in the blog. Much Love don, dottie and family
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Radiation Time
Hello to friends and family
It's been about a month since I wrote about the Radiofrequency ablation and have to explain that I went to a radiofrequency ablation specialist after my Drs. appointment and was told that it will not work for me. It is fairly a new method of fighting cancer but, the Dr. was very nice and very honest and told me that, he will not risk it in my case. My cancer cell was much too close to my aorta and was just to risky for me to take a chance of damaging my aorta. Of course we agreed on that and now I went to a radiologist last week and was told I would start a 12 day session with radiation. Yesterday was my first treatment and took only minutes from start to finish. No pain and so far no fatigue. I had my appointment with my oncologist yesterday and she said that the radiation should help. Of course Ron, June and Don were with me and makes me feel so good that I have extra ears to listen to the Dr. and have ron ask all the questions. than he makes me a list on what the dr. wants from me, like make sure I continue to drink 50 oz of fluid a day, which is very important. I could still get my flu shot and mamorgram and all and even should see my dentist, which is good cause me daughter in law in right on it for me. appointment next week already. By the way please pray for June's brother who is only 58 who was diagnosed with Cancer a couple of weeks ago and is also stage 4. Pray that he will be helped by gamalite which is going to be given to him on his brain since they feel his is spreading to the brain. His name is Dedeair, wife Sa and 3 children 2 girls 28, 25 and a son who is 21. Beautiful children and the 2 younger children and mom and dad moved here from France 4 years ago and lives with June's mom. Thank you for all your wonderful prayers and healing for us and the constant cards, food and calls that continue.
Will keep you in touch how my radiation is working. Pray that the treatment will zap that 2. 7cm cell to go dormant. Thank you all for your continued love and prayers. My family still continue to be here by calls during the week and weekend are a lot of joy and fun with all of them here and having dinner. Such a lively place on week ends. The way I feel I can enjoy watching their soccer and basketball on Saturdays and Sundays now.
Love getting to church on Sundays also. Love seeing everyone. Thanks to all of you. Will keep in touch. love don, dottie and family.
It's been about a month since I wrote about the Radiofrequency ablation and have to explain that I went to a radiofrequency ablation specialist after my Drs. appointment and was told that it will not work for me. It is fairly a new method of fighting cancer but, the Dr. was very nice and very honest and told me that, he will not risk it in my case. My cancer cell was much too close to my aorta and was just to risky for me to take a chance of damaging my aorta. Of course we agreed on that and now I went to a radiologist last week and was told I would start a 12 day session with radiation. Yesterday was my first treatment and took only minutes from start to finish. No pain and so far no fatigue. I had my appointment with my oncologist yesterday and she said that the radiation should help. Of course Ron, June and Don were with me and makes me feel so good that I have extra ears to listen to the Dr. and have ron ask all the questions. than he makes me a list on what the dr. wants from me, like make sure I continue to drink 50 oz of fluid a day, which is very important. I could still get my flu shot and mamorgram and all and even should see my dentist, which is good cause me daughter in law in right on it for me. appointment next week already. By the way please pray for June's brother who is only 58 who was diagnosed with Cancer a couple of weeks ago and is also stage 4. Pray that he will be helped by gamalite which is going to be given to him on his brain since they feel his is spreading to the brain. His name is Dedeair, wife Sa and 3 children 2 girls 28, 25 and a son who is 21. Beautiful children and the 2 younger children and mom and dad moved here from France 4 years ago and lives with June's mom. Thank you for all your wonderful prayers and healing for us and the constant cards, food and calls that continue.
Will keep you in touch how my radiation is working. Pray that the treatment will zap that 2. 7cm cell to go dormant. Thank you all for your continued love and prayers. My family still continue to be here by calls during the week and weekend are a lot of joy and fun with all of them here and having dinner. Such a lively place on week ends. The way I feel I can enjoy watching their soccer and basketball on Saturdays and Sundays now.
Love getting to church on Sundays also. Love seeing everyone. Thanks to all of you. Will keep in touch. love don, dottie and family.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Praise God for his Grace and Faithfulness
To my dear family and friends,
I am so anxious to tell you about my ct scan I had on Monday the 15th of Sept. and Ron, June and Dad met with me and my oncologist Dr. Nanci on Tues. Sept 16th to listen what the Drs. had to say about my results from my scan.
I was praying that I will continue to hear positive results from my Dr. since that was my last chemo therapy
Yes!!Praise God. Many of my previous effusion is mildly deminished in size compared to the previous study and no new nodules are identified. One of the lesions on my upper left lobe measured 5.6 x 4.0 on my last scan in July and is now 2.9 x 2,7 cm. We were all excited to hear about the decease in size, since Ron has been researching the internet and heard about a different method through his Dr. friends and asked my Dr Nanci, what she thought of this method called intervention Radiology ( Radio frequency ablation) which I guess zaps the cancer if it measures 3.0 or less. So Ron immediately made an appointment with the specialist in this method and I see him on Tues. Sept 23rd already.
Now that the chemo's are finished for now I do hope my nausea and tired feeling slowly go away and I will feel like doing more 1st thing is get back to a little exercise slowy to try ot get my appetite back and put on some meat on my skinny bod.
We will continue to let you know if I am a good candidate for this thing called ablation and if I can that will be good. That is the latest for now and pray that all goes well. Thank you all for all you love and support, which gives me so much hope knowing God is listening to all your prayers.
Much love from me and my family,
I am so anxious to tell you about my ct scan I had on Monday the 15th of Sept. and Ron, June and Dad met with me and my oncologist Dr. Nanci on Tues. Sept 16th to listen what the Drs. had to say about my results from my scan.
I was praying that I will continue to hear positive results from my Dr. since that was my last chemo therapy
Yes!!Praise God. Many of my previous effusion is mildly deminished in size compared to the previous study and no new nodules are identified. One of the lesions on my upper left lobe measured 5.6 x 4.0 on my last scan in July and is now 2.9 x 2,7 cm. We were all excited to hear about the decease in size, since Ron has been researching the internet and heard about a different method through his Dr. friends and asked my Dr Nanci, what she thought of this method called intervention Radiology ( Radio frequency ablation) which I guess zaps the cancer if it measures 3.0 or less. So Ron immediately made an appointment with the specialist in this method and I see him on Tues. Sept 23rd already.
Now that the chemo's are finished for now I do hope my nausea and tired feeling slowly go away and I will feel like doing more 1st thing is get back to a little exercise slowy to try ot get my appetite back and put on some meat on my skinny bod.
We will continue to let you know if I am a good candidate for this thing called ablation and if I can that will be good. That is the latest for now and pray that all goes well. Thank you all for all you love and support, which gives me so much hope knowing God is listening to all your prayers.
Much love from me and my family,
Thursday, September 4, 2008
Praise God my last chemo for awhile
Hi to all my dear family and friends,
Thought I would connect with you while I am feeling quite wonderful before going in for chemo tomorrow the 5th of Sept. I would like to share with all of you how normal I have been feeling with enough energy to attend church, twice in August. How nice it was to see the church family after about 6 months of absence. Felt very emotional seeing so many smiling faces, and especially the prayers for my healing. God is always here with me, I can feel his presence and Gods strength to pull me through.
As for my social time, the last couple of weeks I have been eating better so I have been enjoying lunch or dinner out with friends to put on more weight before tomorrow. I still eat funny stuff so I order very strange things from the menu like side of coleslaw and mashed potato and I love it. the other day I had fried oyster for appetizer and that was it and it was good. Usually I am happy just with appetizer size meals and it fills me up. But it has been fun the last couple of weeks to have my white blood cells high enough to go out.
So folks I really had a great Labor day with the whole family together to enjoy labor day from 11:30 in the morning with swimming, hot dogs, hamburgers and all the trimmings and since Robbi made some lettuce wrap with ground pork we enjoyed eating all day and Some of them enjoyed the UCLA game and I will get Brittany's help in showing you some of the fun pictures we took with activities going on throughout our house. Will let you know my progress soon when I feel well after the chemo. Much love and thanks to all for your love, cards and prayers. til later much love dottie and family.
Thought I would connect with you while I am feeling quite wonderful before going in for chemo tomorrow the 5th of Sept. I would like to share with all of you how normal I have been feeling with enough energy to attend church, twice in August. How nice it was to see the church family after about 6 months of absence. Felt very emotional seeing so many smiling faces, and especially the prayers for my healing. God is always here with me, I can feel his presence and Gods strength to pull me through.
As for my social time, the last couple of weeks I have been eating better so I have been enjoying lunch or dinner out with friends to put on more weight before tomorrow. I still eat funny stuff so I order very strange things from the menu like side of coleslaw and mashed potato and I love it. the other day I had fried oyster for appetizer and that was it and it was good. Usually I am happy just with appetizer size meals and it fills me up. But it has been fun the last couple of weeks to have my white blood cells high enough to go out.
So folks I really had a great Labor day with the whole family together to enjoy labor day from 11:30 in the morning with swimming, hot dogs, hamburgers and all the trimmings and since Robbi made some lettuce wrap with ground pork we enjoyed eating all day and Some of them enjoyed the UCLA game and I will get Brittany's help in showing you some of the fun pictures we took with activities going on throughout our house. Will let you know my progress soon when I feel well after the chemo. Much love and thanks to all for your love, cards and prayers. til later much love dottie and family.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
A few days in the hospital
Hi Everyone! This is Brittany, Dottie's granddaughter. Grandma wanted me to write in her blog because we're sure that she is getting e-mails in the masses whose writers are maybe a little worried that they haven't gotten a response. As some of you may know, Grandma has been in the hospital the past few days. She had her 5th chemo session last Friday, Aug. 1st I believe, so she hasn't been feeling very well. This past Saturday she had a fever so Grandpa and my dad took her to emergency where they drew her blood, then followed the decision to admit her into the hospital due to her low white blood cell count. My mom and I went to the hospital to see her, but didn't know she would be staying. Auntie Juli and Auntie Robbi waited with her until they got her a room on the oncology floor at Hoag Hospital. She has a beautiful view of the Newport Bay.
We've made sure to keep her company throughout her time at the hospital, visiting her every day. Auntie Juli, Uncle Kirk, Jackson, Auntie Robbi, Uncle Mike, Mitchell, Matthew, Rilee, my mom, and me...oh and of course Grandpa. Grandma says "I have to make sure to say my hubby's been coming." My dad hasn't been able to see her because he has a tiny cold and doesn't want to take any chances in getting Grandma sick. And my brother Jeff is in San Francisco at dental school, but he calls to check up on her. Ed and Mie were also able to visit because they have another friend who is in the same ward as Grandma. She has colon cancer and is in for the same reason (a low white blood cell count). Mie was so nice she treated Grandpa, my parents, and me to dinner in the cafeteria. Grandma's friend Amy visited today too.
Good thing the Olympics have been on because Grandma spends most of her time in the hospital just watching T.V. Tonight we critiqued the synchronized divers and rooted on good ol' Michael Phelps. Her room is full of pictures that Jackson and Rilee drew in the waiting room; they're definitely items of encouragement saying things like "The sun will shine again," "The sun will come out tomorrow," and "I love you." She takes walks around the oncology floor, pushing around her cart that she's attached to, and Grandpa usually accompanies her. She's getting hydration, antibiotics, electrolytes, and is taking nausea pills. She still doesn't have much of an appetite, but everyone encourages her to eat, so she tries. In the beginning, her bed beeped every time she got off of it to go to the bathroom and the nurses would come rushing in, so they moved her to a room closer to the nurses' station. The nurses are very attentive and of course she strikes up little conversations with them every time they come in.
Her white blood cell count is improving so hopefully she will be able to go home tomorrow. My family is so grateful for your support. It's not, however, very surprising to me how many people are writing to, praying for, and calling Grandma because I know she's all touched your lives in some way. She's such a strong woman of God, spreading her cheer within moments of meeting her, lighting up every room she walks into, and loving without borders, cancer or not. I'm still trying to figure out what God's plan is, but maybe it's not for me to figure out. All I know is that if we all have the faith that my Grandma has had, she's going to get through this. She says, "I appreciate all your prayers, love, and support through my ordeal. I know the Lord is with me everyday because I have wonderful people with me keeping me going."
Sending Grandma and the family's love,
Brittany
Monday, August 4, 2008
A very long chemo session
Hello to my faithful and wonderful friends,
My 5th chemo session was very long. Don took me to the Hoag Hospital about 8 am on Friday August 1st, to first get my blood test, which I do every week and than to the Hoag Cancer Center for my treatment. It was very long since, they gave me more meds than the usual 3 types of chemo, plus zometa, which is for my bones, than the anti nausea drip, and they hydration which is a big gigantic bottle which takes about 4 1/2 hours to finish. Finally got home about 7:45 that night but during the day it was very pleasant talking and chatting with other patients and also visits with robbi and the kids and also Jackson and Juli. It is a long day so it makes it nice where they come in shifts and we all have lunch together. Don was able to do his errands during the day and came back after me in the evening.
Our Son Ron, June and Brittany had a little break this week and spending some time with friends boating and skiing at Lake Havasu so they were gone but, it was nice having the rest of the family on Saturday and Sunday.
The last couple of weeks before chemo on Friday, I was feeling pretty good and was able to enjoy many days of comfort by enjoying another day at the performing arts in Brea to enjoy Rilee perform her little Molly part in Annie. It is all over after 10 shows and she said she will miss performing. She just loves it. I am so thankful to be able to enjoy and keep up with some of the activities of the children, as long as it is not too crowded.
I am not feeling as nauseated this time. I have been taking my pills very faithfully and God is helping through all this with his grace and faithfulness. Thank you all for your continued prayers, love and thoughtful cards. All is appreciated and wish I could respond to each of your cards. Love to all from family and dottie
My 5th chemo session was very long. Don took me to the Hoag Hospital about 8 am on Friday August 1st, to first get my blood test, which I do every week and than to the Hoag Cancer Center for my treatment. It was very long since, they gave me more meds than the usual 3 types of chemo, plus zometa, which is for my bones, than the anti nausea drip, and they hydration which is a big gigantic bottle which takes about 4 1/2 hours to finish. Finally got home about 7:45 that night but during the day it was very pleasant talking and chatting with other patients and also visits with robbi and the kids and also Jackson and Juli. It is a long day so it makes it nice where they come in shifts and we all have lunch together. Don was able to do his errands during the day and came back after me in the evening.
Our Son Ron, June and Brittany had a little break this week and spending some time with friends boating and skiing at Lake Havasu so they were gone but, it was nice having the rest of the family on Saturday and Sunday.
The last couple of weeks before chemo on Friday, I was feeling pretty good and was able to enjoy many days of comfort by enjoying another day at the performing arts in Brea to enjoy Rilee perform her little Molly part in Annie. It is all over after 10 shows and she said she will miss performing. She just loves it. I am so thankful to be able to enjoy and keep up with some of the activities of the children, as long as it is not too crowded.
I am not feeling as nauseated this time. I have been taking my pills very faithfully and God is helping through all this with his grace and faithfulness. Thank you all for your continued prayers, love and thoughtful cards. All is appreciated and wish I could respond to each of your cards. Love to all from family and dottie
Thursday, July 24, 2008
re-edit last blog,
Hi again everyone.
Just wrote my latest blog and should have reviewed what I had written. I made an error on my insurance information. We are not under hmo. I think the chemo makes me forget things. We are fortunately under PPO and therefore many of the treatments and test are covered by our insurance, but the maintenance part I am not too sure, so please pray that all goes well after my last 2 chemo treatments, so that everything will be covered. I thank you all again and appreciate your prayers. Love to all from dottie and family
Just wrote my latest blog and should have reviewed what I had written. I made an error on my insurance information. We are not under hmo. I think the chemo makes me forget things. We are fortunately under PPO and therefore many of the treatments and test are covered by our insurance, but the maintenance part I am not too sure, so please pray that all goes well after my last 2 chemo treatments, so that everything will be covered. I thank you all again and appreciate your prayers. Love to all from dottie and family
Praise God, Halleluah
Hello my dear friends,
Went to Dr. Nanci yesterday and came back with more encouraging words from her. Yes, my cancer cells did shrink a little more and the ones even on my liver is almost gone. Yes God has been answering all the prayers from all of you and hopefully by the time I get my last two chemo's I will be getting just maintenance with meds and no more chemo's. I guess, the chemo that I have been getting is pretty strong so 6 is all they usually recommend, because after that the good cells may not do so well.
I am so fortunate that our son Ron and June make it to all my appointments when I see the Dr. and listen and ask such intelligent question, which I wouldn't even think about. the are really up on medical terms and the insurance. they get right home and call different insurance for me to make sure all my meds will be covered. They say the insurance coverage is really getting tough to pay for certain meds now and so expensive. So far our hmo has been doing well for me since chemo's are so costly I have been fortunate that it has been doing fine for me.
Last night we took many pictures that I do hope I can print them, since we celebrated Don's birthday with the family to celebrate my good news and his birthday.
I will be having my next chemo on August 1st, and I thank all of you for your continued prayers as I know God is listening and hearing our prayers to continue healing. Thank you all so much for your encouraging cards, love and support. I will be out of my bubble soon. Love you all, dottie
Monday, July 7, 2008
Finally back with my update
Hello to my dear faithful friends,
I am so sorry it has been so long since my last update after my good news of my ct scan. For one reason or another after my session with chemo on June 23rd. it zapped me pretty good and I felt so lazy I didn't feel like even playing with the computer. Went to see my Dr. after about a week after my chemo and she noticed that my weight kept going down and of course the usual discomfort that goes along with the treatment was even more this time. I have been spending at least 4 or 5 hours daily going back and forth to the Hoag Cancer Center to either get hydrated, getting white blood cell shots or iv's for bones with Zometa so I make sure I do get out of bed each day and try to do the best I can. Through all this the family is always here for me every week end and even during the week so it keeps me uplifted.
Good News folks, through all this I know God has been with me each and every day since some nights I have dreams that God gives me faith and hope that everything will be okay. On about the 10th or 11th day after chemo I dreamed that I saw a lady at the grocery store and she had a catheter just like mine and she was working looking very healthy and well after her struggle with chemo, so I got up from my dream feeling so hopeful. God shows me hope in such strange ways.
The 4th of July week end was getting close to the 14th day after chemo and I enjoyed every bit of the week end with the whole family meeting, even Jeffrey back from Argentina and he shared what a great time he had and learned so much about the country. That is where Evita entertained and has quite a story there.
Feeling better and since the Anaheim church has a outreach with deep sea fishing, Don was planning on going fishing but gave up his spot to a friend and when they returned they shared their Fresh Catch of Albacore with us and believe me I have enjoyed it ever since the 4th of July. Delicious. rice and fish tasted so good to me. Praise God I was able to eat and even on the 4th my dear sister, Margaret made me some gourmet soup of butter nut soup and also Mushroom. All homemade and it was delicious, which our family was able to share.
My Cancer Dr. decided to extend my chemo a couple of extra weeks to see if I can build myself back up. I guess losing so much weight takes a toll from the chemo and she wants to give my body a little tme in between. That sounds so good to me. In the meantime I will get another ct scan to see the progress and I will have it done on the 16th of July so in the meantime please pray that the results from the test will show great results again. I know God is listening to all of you and your prayers love and support and healing me throughout this ordeal. Anxious to get back to seeing all of you. Miss all of you and maybe soon I can come out of my bubble.
I want to thank all of you for your cards of well wishes and love and support which I continue to receive. Will write soon about the results from my ct scan next week.
Much Love to all of your dottie and family..
I am so sorry it has been so long since my last update after my good news of my ct scan. For one reason or another after my session with chemo on June 23rd. it zapped me pretty good and I felt so lazy I didn't feel like even playing with the computer. Went to see my Dr. after about a week after my chemo and she noticed that my weight kept going down and of course the usual discomfort that goes along with the treatment was even more this time. I have been spending at least 4 or 5 hours daily going back and forth to the Hoag Cancer Center to either get hydrated, getting white blood cell shots or iv's for bones with Zometa so I make sure I do get out of bed each day and try to do the best I can. Through all this the family is always here for me every week end and even during the week so it keeps me uplifted.
Good News folks, through all this I know God has been with me each and every day since some nights I have dreams that God gives me faith and hope that everything will be okay. On about the 10th or 11th day after chemo I dreamed that I saw a lady at the grocery store and she had a catheter just like mine and she was working looking very healthy and well after her struggle with chemo, so I got up from my dream feeling so hopeful. God shows me hope in such strange ways.
The 4th of July week end was getting close to the 14th day after chemo and I enjoyed every bit of the week end with the whole family meeting, even Jeffrey back from Argentina and he shared what a great time he had and learned so much about the country. That is where Evita entertained and has quite a story there.
Feeling better and since the Anaheim church has a outreach with deep sea fishing, Don was planning on going fishing but gave up his spot to a friend and when they returned they shared their Fresh Catch of Albacore with us and believe me I have enjoyed it ever since the 4th of July. Delicious. rice and fish tasted so good to me. Praise God I was able to eat and even on the 4th my dear sister, Margaret made me some gourmet soup of butter nut soup and also Mushroom. All homemade and it was delicious, which our family was able to share.
My Cancer Dr. decided to extend my chemo a couple of extra weeks to see if I can build myself back up. I guess losing so much weight takes a toll from the chemo and she wants to give my body a little tme in between. That sounds so good to me. In the meantime I will get another ct scan to see the progress and I will have it done on the 16th of July so in the meantime please pray that the results from the test will show great results again. I know God is listening to all of you and your prayers love and support and healing me throughout this ordeal. Anxious to get back to seeing all of you. Miss all of you and maybe soon I can come out of my bubble.
I want to thank all of you for your cards of well wishes and love and support which I continue to receive. Will write soon about the results from my ct scan next week.
Much Love to all of your dottie and family..
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Here I am again,
Hello Everyone,
It has been a while since I connected with you and wanted to bring you up to date after my good news on my cancer cell shrinkage. I didn't have my 3rd chemo until June 2nd so the week end before I celebrated since it was Rilee 7th birthday on June 1st. Wanted to share some fun pictures with all of you. Rilee is our swimmer, but loves to sing and dance and she was performing in this neighborhood dance group put on by 2 teenage sisters, and practiced for 3months before the performance on June 1st. I have been pretty much a homebody for the last 3 months but for family affairs, the family lets me out to enjoy when I feel up to it. The musical program was presented in front of the garage with chairs all across the driveway. 2 carloads from family went to the musical and I had front and center sitting on top of Don's SUV sunroof. Had a super view.
Then we went Robbi's home to celebrate with a cake.
Today is the 15th day after my chemo and will be going though many days of my blah days. I know what may be expected so I just pray that God keep an eye on me and keep be as comfortable as I can bare. My 7-1/2 hour of chemo will be on June 23rd.
On July 20th I plan on seeing our little Rilee in the Annie performance at the Brea Performing cultural center so I so pray by that time I will be able to see her perform. She has so much fun I love watching her and this time she tried out for a part and will be Molly in the play. She was so excited.
Also on fathers day we were able to celebrate at Ron & Junes home and it was so wonderful with Jeff and Brittany home from dental school and UCLA for the summer. Jeff left for Argentina and Chile for 3 weeks and Brittany found a job for Summer as asst. basketball coach for her Alma Mater Tesoro. so they will be busy. With so many in the family besides Fathers day we were able to celebrate Juli and Kirk's birthdays.
Well folks, that is about it for this time and will keep in touch with you to keep you updated on my condition after my next ct scan. Hopefully in about 3 weeks.
Thank you for your unceasing prayers and support and I know that the Lord is always faithful and with me daily. much love dottie and family
It has been a while since I connected with you and wanted to bring you up to date after my good news on my cancer cell shrinkage. I didn't have my 3rd chemo until June 2nd so the week end before I celebrated since it was Rilee 7th birthday on June 1st. Wanted to share some fun pictures with all of you. Rilee is our swimmer, but loves to sing and dance and she was performing in this neighborhood dance group put on by 2 teenage sisters, and practiced for 3months before the performance on June 1st. I have been pretty much a homebody for the last 3 months but for family affairs, the family lets me out to enjoy when I feel up to it. The musical program was presented in front of the garage with chairs all across the driveway. 2 carloads from family went to the musical and I had front and center sitting on top of Don's SUV sunroof. Had a super view.
Then we went Robbi's home to celebrate with a cake.
Today is the 15th day after my chemo and will be going though many days of my blah days. I know what may be expected so I just pray that God keep an eye on me and keep be as comfortable as I can bare. My 7-1/2 hour of chemo will be on June 23rd.
On July 20th I plan on seeing our little Rilee in the Annie performance at the Brea Performing cultural center so I so pray by that time I will be able to see her perform. She has so much fun I love watching her and this time she tried out for a part and will be Molly in the play. She was so excited.
Also on fathers day we were able to celebrate at Ron & Junes home and it was so wonderful with Jeff and Brittany home from dental school and UCLA for the summer. Jeff left for Argentina and Chile for 3 weeks and Brittany found a job for Summer as asst. basketball coach for her Alma Mater Tesoro. so they will be busy. With so many in the family besides Fathers day we were able to celebrate Juli and Kirk's birthdays.
Well folks, that is about it for this time and will keep in touch with you to keep you updated on my condition after my next ct scan. Hopefully in about 3 weeks.Thank you for your unceasing prayers and support and I know that the Lord is always faithful and with me daily. much love dottie and family
Friday, May 30, 2008
Great News
Praise the Lord everyone,
Today was a the day that I saw the doctor after my ct scan on Wednesday. My appointment was at 9 am this morning and don, ron and june made sure they were with me when I go in to see the doctor. My family are just too wonderful. Ron and June joined me in the drs. office with Don to have extra ears to listen to the drs. report.
My Dr. Nanci made a comment that if she didn't see at least part of my family with me, she would think something is not right. Yes, they do come with me, for extra ears. I just listen but may not get everything she is telling me. The first thing she asked me was, "how I felt." I told her I feel like a normal person for the last week and a half. my appetite is good. I felt ambitious and with no nausea, no heartburn and not lazy. Well, she went over my report from the ct scan after 2 sessions of chemo and as she read the results, I was getting more and more excited as she read and said that the cancer cells were SHRINKING, the lymph nodes were also getting
SMALLER and the cancer cell that was 7.5m was down to 5. I got up from the chair and gave her a BIG HUG for such great news. She said that is why I love coming to work to give good news to patients. She is such a wonderful dedicated doctor and so personable. She is a beautiful lady and found out today that she is a mother of a 7 month baby, but couldn't wait to get back to work. so after 2 weeks she was back at work and loves it. Her mother watched her newborn for 6 months night and day for her while she got her rest. Now of course she has a nanny.
Well everyone, thank you so much for your prayers, love and support you have constantly given me while I have going through all this. I will have my 3rd session on Monday June 2nd and will continue with the same meds for chemo since it seems pretty successful.
I have been thinking of all of you and miss seeing you, but of course my family keeps reminding me that my immune system is still very weak so, I am playing it safe and staying out of public places. My Dr. ron keeps telling me to carry the anti bacterial wipes and keep using them,. Mom you have to be very cautious what you touch, so be careful, cause there is bacteria all over stuff.
I have to share with all of you, how well I felt on Memorial day and we had a fantastic family dinner in our back yard with a new bar b que built with tables and a whole bunch of chairs so we all enjoyed steak, king crab, corn, salad bar, baked potato bar fruits, even with choc. covered strawberries, with homemade cookies, and with all this food, I was able to eat and enjoy with no problem with nausea by this time.
Thanks for letting me share my excitement with this good news. God is wonderful and will continue to hear your prayers. thanks for your love and prayers. love you all dottie and family
Today was a the day that I saw the doctor after my ct scan on Wednesday. My appointment was at 9 am this morning and don, ron and june made sure they were with me when I go in to see the doctor. My family are just too wonderful. Ron and June joined me in the drs. office with Don to have extra ears to listen to the drs. report.
My Dr. Nanci made a comment that if she didn't see at least part of my family with me, she would think something is not right. Yes, they do come with me, for extra ears. I just listen but may not get everything she is telling me. The first thing she asked me was, "how I felt." I told her I feel like a normal person for the last week and a half. my appetite is good. I felt ambitious and with no nausea, no heartburn and not lazy. Well, she went over my report from the ct scan after 2 sessions of chemo and as she read the results, I was getting more and more excited as she read and said that the cancer cells were SHRINKING, the lymph nodes were also getting
SMALLER and the cancer cell that was 7.5m was down to 5. I got up from the chair and gave her a BIG HUG for such great news. She said that is why I love coming to work to give good news to patients. She is such a wonderful dedicated doctor and so personable. She is a beautiful lady and found out today that she is a mother of a 7 month baby, but couldn't wait to get back to work. so after 2 weeks she was back at work and loves it. Her mother watched her newborn for 6 months night and day for her while she got her rest. Now of course she has a nanny.
Well everyone, thank you so much for your prayers, love and support you have constantly given me while I have going through all this. I will have my 3rd session on Monday June 2nd and will continue with the same meds for chemo since it seems pretty successful.
I have been thinking of all of you and miss seeing you, but of course my family keeps reminding me that my immune system is still very weak so, I am playing it safe and staying out of public places. My Dr. ron keeps telling me to carry the anti bacterial wipes and keep using them,. Mom you have to be very cautious what you touch, so be careful, cause there is bacteria all over stuff.
I have to share with all of you, how well I felt on Memorial day and we had a fantastic family dinner in our back yard with a new bar b que built with tables and a whole bunch of chairs so we all enjoyed steak, king crab, corn, salad bar, baked potato bar fruits, even with choc. covered strawberries, with homemade cookies, and with all this food, I was able to eat and enjoy with no problem with nausea by this time.
Thanks for letting me share my excitement with this good news. God is wonderful and will continue to hear your prayers. thanks for your love and prayers. love you all dottie and family
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
2nd session of chemo
Hello Everyone,
This morning, tues. morn I feel a little better after 2 sessions of chemo the day after Mother's day. Monday the 12th was a 3 hour session of chemo and Tues. was a very long day. 11 in the morning till almost 6 that evening. I had such support throughout the whole day. Robbi and Juli was with me from morning and Kirk, Jackson and June came along about 12:20pm and they all had lunch together. In the meantime food was brought to me throughout the day to keep me fed, It was such a long day, Juli and Robbi went to take care of their families at about 4 pm and June stayed while ron came down after seeing his patients at 5:30. Than Don came after me at 6 and we were finally able to go home.
I keep praying about not feeling too badly, but I guess with all the side effects, the chemo is taking effect. Been really tired lately and nausea and diarreaha comes along with all the side effects. Even with meds it doesn't help sometime. This chemo affects so many things. You just don't feel like eating and for the past few days it has been somen and tofu, the same diet as my Jackson. He could eat a whole block of tofu by himself plus he likes somen also, so for the past few nights I eat with Jackson. Course he eats more than I can. Whenever he gets a popsicle I have one also, just to get fluid in me. I am coping with my discomfort and try to get up and do a little, but it is amazing how lazy you feel. Well to all my great prayer warriors and supportors of my condition I am praying that in the next few days by the 14th day after chemo they say I should feel better. In the meantime I do get hydrated at least 2 to 3 times a week just to make me feel better. In a couple of weeks I should be getting a ct scan to see how the chemo is doing. So please pray for good results of that test.
I also had an exciting week-end with Brittany coming over to get ready at grandma's house before she went to a prom. She said she will get ready here and mom will come down to take a few pictures. I was able to see her looking really cute and pretty getting ready for her big night. She looked so pretty with Mark in his handsome white suit with matching vest the same color as Brittany's dress. they looked so good. That was the hightlight of my evening. Thanks for the kids they keep things interesting for grandma. Will get in touch again soon. love you all dottie
Monday, May 12, 2008
Special day for Mom's
Hello to my dear friends and A Happy Mother's day
Yes!! Mother's day was a great blessing. Today I went for my 2nd set of chemo and so far feel fine, so I want to share with you how wonderful it is to be a mom. God has blessed me from the moment he planned me with my parents and from that moment in life his plans for my life has been just too wonderful. Being a wife and mom, grandma is lifes great Joy. Yesterday as usual was a sunday with family and little Kristy and mom Regina who are just like family. We had a variety of dim sum, and chinese food, even a whole platter of lobster. which went over big. It was a brunch since June took her mom, brother and sister in law to a vietnamese concert at Knott's berry farm for a 1:30 pm show. and Juli, kirk and Jackson visited with Kirks mom at his at his sister Joy's house with all 3 grandchildren fixing Thai dinner for them. It was of course mom's day off, so even at this house the dad's and kids washed and cleaned up.
the gifts I received were awesome. Many practical gifts being that I have lost so much weight I don't need any new clothes and so Juli made me 6 turbin scarfs for me to wear on my hairless head. they are really comfortable to wear. robbi's family gave me boxes and boxes of practical note cards which I really go thru and a dvd of a fun movie called 27 dresses. Ron and June were also very practical and emotional. Ron wrote a sweet letter to Mom and said all the nice things of what I used to do for him, and where I took him for lessons and all the small things he remembered we did for him as he was growing up and going to all his activities and appreciated every bit of what we did. How sweet is that. He really remembered a lot of things. June said he had so many great memories he wanted to put it in a letter. He let June present me with flowers and a couple of UV shirts to protect me from the sun rays. Jeff did not forget Grandma, flowers by UPS was sent to me on Saturday from San Diego florest and it was a whole bouquet of beautiful tulips and came with a vase and of course, with a sweet note. Brittany presented me with this cute box of personalized note cards that I can send out also with many memorable pictures. So clever these children.
Thank you for letting me share my story as a mom and each one of you moms are gifted to be the best to show your children how proud you are of them being a mom and starting their families. By showing your love, be an encourager, inspire them, be a supporter let them believe in miracles, and let life be fun and let them know of your unconditional love is always with open arms. God is love and as a mom you are all treasures, so cherish all the wonderful memories that you have with each and every one of them. You know what folks, my bout with cancer is nothing to the love and joy that I get from being a mom and grandma. I know God is doing something wonderful in my life and whether it be more time with all of you or time for the golden street of heaven I am content as to where I am today. Looking forward to the last day of my chemo to see all of you soon. Thanks for letting me share my beautiful Mothers Day.
Love you all. dottie
Yes!! Mother's day was a great blessing. Today I went for my 2nd set of chemo and so far feel fine, so I want to share with you how wonderful it is to be a mom. God has blessed me from the moment he planned me with my parents and from that moment in life his plans for my life has been just too wonderful. Being a wife and mom, grandma is lifes great Joy. Yesterday as usual was a sunday with family and little Kristy and mom Regina who are just like family. We had a variety of dim sum, and chinese food, even a whole platter of lobster. which went over big. It was a brunch since June took her mom, brother and sister in law to a vietnamese concert at Knott's berry farm for a 1:30 pm show. and Juli, kirk and Jackson visited with Kirks mom at his at his sister Joy's house with all 3 grandchildren fixing Thai dinner for them. It was of course mom's day off, so even at this house the dad's and kids washed and cleaned up.
the gifts I received were awesome. Many practical gifts being that I have lost so much weight I don't need any new clothes and so Juli made me 6 turbin scarfs for me to wear on my hairless head. they are really comfortable to wear. robbi's family gave me boxes and boxes of practical note cards which I really go thru and a dvd of a fun movie called 27 dresses. Ron and June were also very practical and emotional. Ron wrote a sweet letter to Mom and said all the nice things of what I used to do for him, and where I took him for lessons and all the small things he remembered we did for him as he was growing up and going to all his activities and appreciated every bit of what we did. How sweet is that. He really remembered a lot of things. June said he had so many great memories he wanted to put it in a letter. He let June present me with flowers and a couple of UV shirts to protect me from the sun rays. Jeff did not forget Grandma, flowers by UPS was sent to me on Saturday from San Diego florest and it was a whole bouquet of beautiful tulips and came with a vase and of course, with a sweet note. Brittany presented me with this cute box of personalized note cards that I can send out also with many memorable pictures. So clever these children.
Thank you for letting me share my story as a mom and each one of you moms are gifted to be the best to show your children how proud you are of them being a mom and starting their families. By showing your love, be an encourager, inspire them, be a supporter let them believe in miracles, and let life be fun and let them know of your unconditional love is always with open arms. God is love and as a mom you are all treasures, so cherish all the wonderful memories that you have with each and every one of them. You know what folks, my bout with cancer is nothing to the love and joy that I get from being a mom and grandma. I know God is doing something wonderful in my life and whether it be more time with all of you or time for the golden street of heaven I am content as to where I am today. Looking forward to the last day of my chemo to see all of you soon. Thanks for letting me share my beautiful Mothers Day.
Love you all. dottie
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
sharing our celebration
Hi to everyone,
today is a good day. Feeling pretty good and enjoying somen, miso soup and tofu for lunch. Thought if I could eat tofu, it will give me some protein. This week end was a big thing for the Takai family. Back in Feb. I wanted to give our son Ron and June a 25th Surprise anniversary party, but that is when I was in the middle of wondering what I will feel like with my cancer. Well as you know I had my 1st chemo treatment on April 14th and 15th and the Dr. says I should feel pretty normal by the 14th to 20th day from the day of the treatment, so we took a chance and set the surprise for May 3rd. Well the day came very quickly and a few days before the party I was told that my white blood cells were very low and I needed shots for 3 days. so on Wed, thurs, and friday, I was given whitel blood cell shots and felt pretty good on Sat. for the party. Still I was told to stay away from crowds. ( don't want to be sick before my chemo)
So my Juli, gave our guest a book mark which said, ( my mom loves each of you for being here and would like to hug each of you but right now her immune system is really down so please hug and throw a kiss from afar.) My family made sure of that. they placed me at a table where I can see everyone getting their food and I was able greet each one as they passed by. with a hi sign. The family surrounded my table. The day went well and we even flew in Jeffrey from dental school to surprise mom and dad for their party. Brittany was held responsible to bring mom and dad by 1 pm and she did it. Jeffrey gave the toast and we had a super good time with friends and family. We appreciated everyone being there and even renewed our vows with ron and June. 25 for them and 55 for don and I .
Isn't it amazing how God has his hands in whatever plans we have and gave us a beautiful sunny day and I felt great all day. My children were on me most of the day and even said I should go home now since you were here long enough and you don't want to get overtired. So Robbi says, come on mom, you have to go. So I was able to say a quick good by before taking off EARLY. Thanks heavens for kids tho. I just got a hold of the caterer and the kids ran with the plans after that, decorations, table covering, and all the needs of a party. they were great.
I am at the last strand of losing my hair, so you will see me with a beanie on most of the time if not a scarf. It's really strange, how the skin on your skull feels so sensitive with no hair. Don't take any time with combing anymore. that's a good thing.
Well my dear friends, the day after mother's day is my 2nd session and please pray that I don't get too bad of side effects. Will let you know, hopefully I will feel like getting on the computer.
much love from me and the family.
today is a good day. Feeling pretty good and enjoying somen, miso soup and tofu for lunch. Thought if I could eat tofu, it will give me some protein. This week end was a big thing for the Takai family. Back in Feb. I wanted to give our son Ron and June a 25th Surprise anniversary party, but that is when I was in the middle of wondering what I will feel like with my cancer. Well as you know I had my 1st chemo treatment on April 14th and 15th and the Dr. says I should feel pretty normal by the 14th to 20th day from the day of the treatment, so we took a chance and set the surprise for May 3rd. Well the day came very quickly and a few days before the party I was told that my white blood cells were very low and I needed shots for 3 days. so on Wed, thurs, and friday, I was given whitel blood cell shots and felt pretty good on Sat. for the party. Still I was told to stay away from crowds. ( don't want to be sick before my chemo)
So my Juli, gave our guest a book mark which said, ( my mom loves each of you for being here and would like to hug each of you but right now her immune system is really down so please hug and throw a kiss from afar.) My family made sure of that. they placed me at a table where I can see everyone getting their food and I was able greet each one as they passed by. with a hi sign. The family surrounded my table. The day went well and we even flew in Jeffrey from dental school to surprise mom and dad for their party. Brittany was held responsible to bring mom and dad by 1 pm and she did it. Jeffrey gave the toast and we had a super good time with friends and family. We appreciated everyone being there and even renewed our vows with ron and June. 25 for them and 55 for don and I .
Isn't it amazing how God has his hands in whatever plans we have and gave us a beautiful sunny day and I felt great all day. My children were on me most of the day and even said I should go home now since you were here long enough and you don't want to get overtired. So Robbi says, come on mom, you have to go. So I was able to say a quick good by before taking off EARLY. Thanks heavens for kids tho. I just got a hold of the caterer and the kids ran with the plans after that, decorations, table covering, and all the needs of a party. they were great.
I am at the last strand of losing my hair, so you will see me with a beanie on most of the time if not a scarf. It's really strange, how the skin on your skull feels so sensitive with no hair. Don't take any time with combing anymore. that's a good thing.
Well my dear friends, the day after mother's day is my 2nd session and please pray that I don't get too bad of side effects. Will let you know, hopefully I will feel like getting on the computer.
much love from me and the family.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
I'm back
Hello Everyone,
One of God's miracle happened to me this past saturday april. 26th. On 4/26/53 Loki as I call my honey, were young, and in love and took 6 or our close friends to Las Vegas and were married at the hitching post and they treated us to a nice dinner for our wedding night. It was wonderful, romantic throughout day and evening. Yes our parents knew and approved of us going and they gave us a nice reception later. But on Saturday morning, I got up at about 7 am and instead of struggling to decide what to eat, like always, my honey comes in the bedroom and says to me happy anniversary, how sweet is that. Each morning he comes to greet me and ask what I want. This morning God says, mom feels like eating corned beef hash with poached egg on top. Would you believe. Praise God. Got up went to the store with him and even to the farmers market, which he loves to do each saturday morning. He used to take a good friend Willie Ota, each Saturday to get him out to shop around and buy him their favorite watermelon juice. We will miss Willie, he went to be with the Lord on April 15th and accepted the Lord as Pastor Carl Yoshimine ministered to him. Loki will miss taking him on Saturday's but will continue to go to pick up a large bag of oranges and juices at least a gallon for our grandkids each week. They love it.
Last week was a week at the Hoag center getting hydrated thru my port a cath 3 times a week and also had my lungs drained. Last week was a good week. After 55 years of love, blessing, children and grandchildren God has been so good to us. My loving hubby who has taken over cleaning house. Up early in the morning, cleaning the whole house before he comes in to greet me in the morning. We have worked together in business for so long, 35 years in nursery and so blessed through thick and thin. I told him the other day how much I appreciate his doing so much and he said, I married you for better for worse and now you are worse off than I am and I'm here for you. How sweet is that.
Sorry this is so long but I have to share on Saturday and Sunday it was marathon party at the Takai's for our anniversay. Kids swimming from 11 am saturday til marathon dvd on Sunday. Kids in one room and later the whole family watching movies together. Popcorn and all.
We ended our celebration with two anniversary cakes. Love you all, thanks for prayers.
-Dottie
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Chemo begins
Hello Everyone,
Monday and Tuesday at the Hoag Cancer Center was quite an experience for me and each day I see God presence all day. On Monday Juli, Robbi, Ron and June and dad were with me for 3 hours for my first treatment. It is so amusing to see that they bring food, spam musubi, cheese, ham and crackers, fruits, etc. and camp out in the waiting room with ice chest and just hang out and sit while I am getting chemo since there are so many people getting treatments. They each come in one at a time to bring me food. Met this man named Billie the 1st day and he shared that this was his last treatment after 6 months. I told him it was my first and he was so encouraging and found out he is a Christian also. He has small cell lung cancer also and learned so much about him. He also went to the same high school as our kids. Western High School.
Yesterday, Tues. it was almost a 5 hour treatment and was blessed with even Miko wanting to join us for the day. She is always so inspiring, reading verses, and even had Kirk, Juli and Miko as a trio singing for the whoever can hear. The people at the nurses station thought it was so wonderful to have all the love and support. Tuesday we took up more room in the waiting room,. all our kids and even Jackson. You wouldn't believe what went on that day also. It was not coincidence it was a God thing again. met this lady Pam, a caucasian lady and the other a chinese lady and had a wonderful time sharing. Pam said she was married to a Japanese and his name was Yukihiro. Oh! I said, the big trucking company that used to be on Beach Blvd? she said yes. I told I know Calvin Yukihiro who comes to our Bible study on Fridays when he can and Pam says, he is my husbands cousin. and she also went to Reid, Orangeview Jr. Hi and Western High where of course our kids attended. It was also good for Miko also since they know many of the Yukihiro family. With so much love and support I don't even think of sitting there for 5 hours for my treatment. After arriving at home and having dinner, Brittany topped off my day with more love and delight. She drove all the way from UCLA with this beautiful bouquet of flowers to cheer me up after being texed from her dad about my day. I was told the next 3 to 7 days may be uncomfortable and little by little I should start feeling a little better. Only thing is that I cannot do my normal lifestyle and socialize. I am now pretty much isolated as when you get chemo, your immune system is very low and I cannot be in public places because of maybe people being sick. Will miss seeing all of you for a while and pray that soon I can be back to visitng. love you all for your unceasing prayers and support. dottie.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
a new challenge
Hello everyone,
I am now going to be facing a new challenge now that I am going to start chemo on April 14th. Just to get prepared for this treatment is quite overwhelming. I have been at Hoag Hospital everyday of the week with an ultrasound on my thyroid, an echocardiogram, and more fluid drained out of my lungs. On Tues. the Nurse at my Drs. office explained the procedure and process of what I will be having and going through with chemo, so with all the support from the kids, I feel confident that they heard everything. June with her recorder, Ron with his notebook and questions, Robbi with her young mind and Dad just listening what he can grasp. Me I just do what the kids heard. So after the teaching I was to get a port a cath, which will make it easier to have my chemo with this thing in my chest so I will not have to get poked each time in my vein when I am treated.
On Friday, I was able to go to my growth group and it was good since they all prayed for my surgery for the cath, and it went really well on Friday afternoon. My surgery was at 2 and by 4 pm I was able to come home. Ron had a 1/2 sandwich for me with a snapple and it was really good. I devoured it and even had Don stop and pick up a bag of chips to go with it.
So my dear friends, my family is hear for me each week end and Juli cooks for us on most evening during the week. As long as I am up to feeling ok I try to get to church and I praise God that Don has been attending with me. I get to the bowling when I can and enjoy seeing my golfing friends also. Please continue to pray that the reaction from the Chemo will not be too harsh. That will be a bummer. Thanks for your thoughts and prayers. lv ya dottie
I am now going to be facing a new challenge now that I am going to start chemo on April 14th. Just to get prepared for this treatment is quite overwhelming. I have been at Hoag Hospital everyday of the week with an ultrasound on my thyroid, an echocardiogram, and more fluid drained out of my lungs. On Tues. the Nurse at my Drs. office explained the procedure and process of what I will be having and going through with chemo, so with all the support from the kids, I feel confident that they heard everything. June with her recorder, Ron with his notebook and questions, Robbi with her young mind and Dad just listening what he can grasp. Me I just do what the kids heard. So after the teaching I was to get a port a cath, which will make it easier to have my chemo with this thing in my chest so I will not have to get poked each time in my vein when I am treated.
On Friday, I was able to go to my growth group and it was good since they all prayed for my surgery for the cath, and it went really well on Friday afternoon. My surgery was at 2 and by 4 pm I was able to come home. Ron had a 1/2 sandwich for me with a snapple and it was really good. I devoured it and even had Don stop and pick up a bag of chips to go with it.
So my dear friends, my family is hear for me each week end and Juli cooks for us on most evening during the week. As long as I am up to feeling ok I try to get to church and I praise God that Don has been attending with me. I get to the bowling when I can and enjoy seeing my golfing friends also. Please continue to pray that the reaction from the Chemo will not be too harsh. That will be a bummer. Thanks for your thoughts and prayers. lv ya dottie
Saturday, April 5, 2008
more challenges for my update
Good Evening to my dear friends,
Yesterday, April 4th after my appointment with my oncologist Dr. Andreea Nanci. I ended up having such a busy day. My appointment from Thurs. was postponed to Friday since they didn't have the zometa for me for my IV to strengthen my bone. Dr. Nanci, talked to us for 45 min and said that the Tarceva did not do anything for me and my ct scan showed that my cancer has grown since starting the Tarceva. That was very disappointing for don and I but, we know the knowledge that our Dr. has and she reassured us that with me starting Chemo with Cisplatin, and docetaxel to start as soon as possible.
After my zometa at the office, she made a call to the radiology at Hoag Hospital to also have my Fluid drained from my lungs, as she saw that my lungs were filled with fluid. I went have the procedure done since I have been really coughing lately and was hard for me to lay down to sleep. I was sitting up right for a few night. After removal of the fluid, my coughing is better and unfortunatley since I had so much fluid I have to go back in on Wed. to continue removing my fluid. It got very painful and uncomfortable for me to have that procedure at one time. So the Dr. in radiology felt that I should be back next week to complete draining. It has been so much easier to breath without all that fluid. They drained 1900 cc which is really alot.
Please still continue to pray for my chemo which I will probably start very soon. I will let you know.
I am getting a little apprehensive about the treatments, but God, I know gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. God will strengten me and help me, and uphold me. So with God's love and his presence will give me peace.
My family are right behind me and they go to my appointments whenever they can and are here for me every week ends. and ready to prepare meals whenever they are here.
I am so blessed to have such a supportive family. Even Brittany tries to make it to visit each week end from UCLA. Our grandson Jeff if really studying so hard following his dads footsteps as a dentist and doing very well. He calls me often for my update.
Thanks to all of you. good nite, dottie
Yesterday, April 4th after my appointment with my oncologist Dr. Andreea Nanci. I ended up having such a busy day. My appointment from Thurs. was postponed to Friday since they didn't have the zometa for me for my IV to strengthen my bone. Dr. Nanci, talked to us for 45 min and said that the Tarceva did not do anything for me and my ct scan showed that my cancer has grown since starting the Tarceva. That was very disappointing for don and I but, we know the knowledge that our Dr. has and she reassured us that with me starting Chemo with Cisplatin, and docetaxel to start as soon as possible.
After my zometa at the office, she made a call to the radiology at Hoag Hospital to also have my Fluid drained from my lungs, as she saw that my lungs were filled with fluid. I went have the procedure done since I have been really coughing lately and was hard for me to lay down to sleep. I was sitting up right for a few night. After removal of the fluid, my coughing is better and unfortunatley since I had so much fluid I have to go back in on Wed. to continue removing my fluid. It got very painful and uncomfortable for me to have that procedure at one time. So the Dr. in radiology felt that I should be back next week to complete draining. It has been so much easier to breath without all that fluid. They drained 1900 cc which is really alot.
Please still continue to pray for my chemo which I will probably start very soon. I will let you know.
I am getting a little apprehensive about the treatments, but God, I know gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. God will strengten me and help me, and uphold me. So with God's love and his presence will give me peace.
My family are right behind me and they go to my appointments whenever they can and are here for me every week ends. and ready to prepare meals whenever they are here.
I am so blessed to have such a supportive family. Even Brittany tries to make it to visit each week end from UCLA. Our grandson Jeff if really studying so hard following his dads footsteps as a dentist and doing very well. He calls me often for my update.
Thanks to all of you. good nite, dottie
Friday, March 28, 2008
God plan for the day
To our dear friends,
While I was lying in bed this morning, I was reminiscing about how wonderful God looks after us each day and know the awesome truth that God is with us each day as we awake and keeps us safe.
I want to share my typical day of being pretty active each day with drs. appointments, lunches, and visiting. Don and I try each morning to continue our walk along the park from 6:30 am and that's how the day started on Thursday morning.
But yesterday morning spent some time with Juli from 8 am to 10 and was invited by my friend Dot Aila to listen to a Radiation Therapy seminar presented by Los Alamitos hospital with a free lunch and all. The message was very interesting how radiation has advances so much since the late 1800 until now. Los alamitos Hospital now has a new oncology Cancer Center at the hospital and found that Dr. Robert Kwon who was the speaker treated Tiger Woods Dad. He spoke very highly of him and was honored to know him.
Came home at 2:30 pm and just as we walked in the house, our neighbor was visiting, plus who should knock on the door our nephew Garret, and his little 6 month old Leelu going for a walk. they live down the street from us. Course we love seeing them often to visit with us. She is the cutest little doll. Garret comes in and say's that there is a police car in our driveway and a police man held his gun to a man that was running away and he arrested this guy right in front of our neighbors front lawn. Now to tell you how God protected each and everyone of us from danger is that Juli was in front moving Dad's van for the neighbor to get his trailer out from in front of dads van and she just came in the house. Than Garret said, did we see the police. Juli said, no I just came in. All together Garret see's 3 police cars all in pursuit of some drug dealers or something from the park near by. Now Garret is in our home by than and just as Juli comes in Regina and Kristy Kumagai, drive up to our home to spend time us and cook us a sukiyaki meal. We just felt Gods presence at that moment, because if and when Regina came a couple of minutes earlier and Juli was moving the van just than, we wouldn't want to even imagine the danger they would have been in.
The blessing does not end there. Regina and Kristy are just like family and we enjoy their company so much to see Jackson, Kristy and Robbi and Mikes' children all play together so well. They were all over on Easter Sunday and Regina offered to cook for us this week since she is off of work. She made Sukiyaki but did not expect the unexpected turn of events for the day.
Regina our chef brings her professional looking Electric pan by Zojirusi of Japan and makes perfect meals. brings her ingredients all cut and ready to prepare. She is so organized.
Well her cooking begins at 4:30 pm to make dinner early for Kirk and Jackson and Kristy. Kirk has to go home to sleep to work at midnight. that was the 1st shift. than at 6 pm Regina continues to make a new batch for Don, Juli, Brittany, and grandma. Well remember Garret who was visiting earlier. Well I also invited him to come back when his wife gets home from work to enjoy dinner with us. So dinner at 7 for them and Brittany's friend Mark was able to join them for dinner at the same time. By this time I started feeling really tired for Regina, but her servanthood attitude was still as cheerful as the first meal at 4:30. Sorry I messed up on the picture, still just learning. That picture is of Brittany and LeeLu, Garret and MaryAnn's little cutie. Wanted to place the picture down here.
This was one busy day, but I think God makes these plans for me to keep thinking of the positive and keeping in touch with Friends like all of you. the evening ended with Mark, Brittany grandpa and I enjoying the exciting UCLA game which they won. I do hope Regina will consider joining us again soon. Hope she was not too too tired.
Lv ya all. d
Thursday, March 27, 2008
successful radiation
Hi everyone,
Praise God!! finished my last radiation treatment on Tues. march 25th, and was told by the nurse and radiologist that the radiation treatments seems to have been a success and I will no longer need to continue for the femoral bone. I just have to let the bone around the cancer that had radiation become strong again. after the 10 radiation treatment the Dr. feels really positive about the results.
thank you to all of you for your prayers. I know God is listening. Will connect with you when I get the results from my ct scan next week. Should know by April 3rd if the meds are working on the rest of the cancer. May God Bless you all. lv ya d
Praise God!! finished my last radiation treatment on Tues. march 25th, and was told by the nurse and radiologist that the radiation treatments seems to have been a success and I will no longer need to continue for the femoral bone. I just have to let the bone around the cancer that had radiation become strong again. after the 10 radiation treatment the Dr. feels really positive about the results.
thank you to all of you for your prayers. I know God is listening. Will connect with you when I get the results from my ct scan next week. Should know by April 3rd if the meds are working on the rest of the cancer. May God Bless you all. lv ya d
Monday, March 17, 2008
sorry, correction on my latest update.
Hi everyone,
my memory is failing me. I do hope that the med doesn't do that. anyway, I went to my radiation this morning and realized that I made a mistake on the side that my cancer cell is on. It is not my left femoral bone. Yes the right side is where I have been having my radiation. Please continue praying for my RIGHT side of my femoral cancer cell to heal. Thank you so much for all the uplifting thoughts you have all given to me and my family. lv ya all dottie
my memory is failing me. I do hope that the med doesn't do that. anyway, I went to my radiation this morning and realized that I made a mistake on the side that my cancer cell is on. It is not my left femoral bone. Yes the right side is where I have been having my radiation. Please continue praying for my RIGHT side of my femoral cancer cell to heal. Thank you so much for all the uplifting thoughts you have all given to me and my family. lv ya all dottie
Sunday, March 16, 2008
updating what's up with dottie
Hi to all my dear friends and family,
It has been at least a month since I have updated my condition and sorry I have neglected to inform you of what's been happening. I want to thank so many of you who have sent cards of well wishes and I really appreciate all you concern and prayers. The Tarceva med has been making my skin a bit dry and I have to stay out of the sun a bit. I have already had three radiation treatments on my left femoral bone. I go each morning by 9 am and it is very quick to get radiation. I don't seem to be having any side affect so far with it, but I think my Tarceva is making me not hungry so I feel really bad when I just put a little bit of food on my plate when the kids work so hard to make what they hope I feel like eating. They all left a while ago after fixing all the fancy meals. Robbi and her baby back ribs and both son & laws went out to barbeque some steaks. Juli fixed the kids mashed potatoes, they love mashed potatoes, and Ron did his creative asparagus with chicken with curry and mushroom sauce. The food was all so delicious and I ate as much as I can.
I have been trying to keep active by meeting with people. Even had a high school reunion with 19 of us who attended high school from 1948 to 1953. That was such a fun time to chat for about 3 1/2 hours at a buffet in Torrance. We have all grown old very gracefully.
This past week end we also had a little game of tripoli at one of our friends home where 4 of us couples play on a regular basis and each time we have to have a dry run sometime since we forget how the game goes. what joy is that.
I will have a blood test on march 28th and at ct scan on the 31st to see how it turns out so my Dr. oncologist can see if the med is working. I do hope there will be some change for the better.
Sorry this blog is so long, I will try to keep up with all of you on a more regular basis. thanks for listening. My prayer request is that I feel like eating more. I can't afford to lose any more weight. will log in with all of you soon, lv ya dottie
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Updating On My Condition
On Saturday night the 16th the kids were all down and they decided to do the cooking for mom since we just got back from Hawaii. Even ron made a sushi appetizer and robbi made some tonkatsu and broccoli beef and of course juli fixed a salad. what a feast we had.
As for my treatments now the update is that I am already taking Tarceva, which seems to be working and I am getting a lot of blemishes on my face and body. I will have Zometa to strengthen my bone on Thurs. March 6th and also radiation on my femur bone to stop my cancer there will begin on March 10th. So far I feel okay and thanks to all of your prayers and cards and all I feel so much peace and comfort throughout all my doctors appointments and treatments. Our kids have been with us 24 7 and are so supportive . Will keep in touch later. Thanks for all your kind thoughts. Lv dottie
As for my treatments now the update is that I am already taking Tarceva, which seems to be working and I am getting a lot of blemishes on my face and body. I will have Zometa to strengthen my bone on Thurs. March 6th and also radiation on my femur bone to stop my cancer there will begin on March 10th. So far I feel okay and thanks to all of your prayers and cards and all I feel so much peace and comfort throughout all my doctors appointments and treatments. Our kids have been with us 24 7 and are so supportive . Will keep in touch later. Thanks for all your kind thoughts. Lv dottie
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Still searching
Today I spent most of my day at Hoag Hospital, since our son Ron and June are still researching the best dr. for me. They keep looking up on the internet and finding positive comment about Hoag Hospital and how successful they are with their cancer patients. It sounds very promising, it states that at Hoag the result is the the 5 year relative survival rate for lung cancer patients diagnosed and or managed at Hoag cancer center is 50% higher than the national average. Hoag has one of the largest lung cancer programs in the US. Don took me to Hoag for my appt. today but since June came we sent dad home. He had a cold and was miserable. June stayed with me all day and Dr Andrea Nanci explained my condition to us for 1 1/2 hours and tried to make it so clear to us. It makes it so nice for June to be with me since she is quite knowledgable and can also do all the talking for me. I will probably be getting some radiation treatment on my femor bone which has cancer on it and Dr. feel she wants to protect it being that all my weight is on it when I walk and she doesn't want it to break, if I fall or anything. I am now taking the tarceva treatment and Dr Nanci agrees with the treatment but wants me to take the full 150 m.
I have many dr's appt. next week and the following week so I will be putting on alot of miles to Hoag.
I just want to thank all of you for your comments and kind words of encouragements and prayer. Also love the wonderful scriptures you all have been sending.
I am not really too good at this blog yet and want to answer with a comment to each of you but I just don't know how now. and like an old lady I'm afraid to pust new buttons thinking I will lose what I typed. So be patient. Maybe when Brittany, our grandaughter comes home the on the week end she will help me again. Love all of you for your support and prayer.
The Lord is my helper, so I will not be afraid. What can mere mortal do to me. Heb. 13:6
til again lv dottie
I have many dr's appt. next week and the following week so I will be putting on alot of miles to Hoag.
I just want to thank all of you for your comments and kind words of encouragements and prayer. Also love the wonderful scriptures you all have been sending.
I am not really too good at this blog yet and want to answer with a comment to each of you but I just don't know how now. and like an old lady I'm afraid to pust new buttons thinking I will lose what I typed. So be patient. Maybe when Brittany, our grandaughter comes home the on the week end she will help me again. Love all of you for your support and prayer.
The Lord is my helper, so I will not be afraid. What can mere mortal do to me. Heb. 13:6
til again lv dottie
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Back from Hawaii
Aloha to all of you,
Left for Hawaii on Monday feb. 11th with Juli, Robbi, Don and I and when we arrived in Kona, Ron came to pick us up right away and presented each of us with a orchid lei, which was really so thoughtful of him.
Arrived at Waikaloa Marriott Hotel about 4 pm and June was there for us and Ron presented June with a lei a kiss and also a dozen beautiful roses for their 25th anniversary.
From the moment we arrived, we enjoyed the scenery, and the great food. On Tues. morning we all had the hotel buffet and stayed and ate and visited for 2 hours and off to the beach for a great and adventurous walk on the walking trail taking picture after picture. Had a great relaxing and fun time with the kids really acting like kids.
The rest of the week was just fellowship together and going to the great restaurant Manago's for Pork chops and to Waimea, to Have breakfast at the local Hawaiian style cafe which was unbelievably good and Big.
Left for Hawaii on Monday feb. 11th with Juli, Robbi, Don and I and when we arrived in Kona, Ron came to pick us up right away and presented each of us with a orchid lei, which was really so thoughtful of him.
Arrived at Waikaloa Marriott Hotel about 4 pm and June was there for us and Ron presented June with a lei a kiss and also a dozen beautiful roses for their 25th anniversary.
From the moment we arrived, we enjoyed the scenery, and the great food. On Tues. morning we all had the hotel buffet and stayed and ate and visited for 2 hours and off to the beach for a great and adventurous walk on the walking trail taking picture after picture. Had a great relaxing and fun time with the kids really acting like kids.
Played cards in the evening and finally arrived back home on Friday at 10 pm Jeffrey was waiting for mom and dad, since he came to visit with grandma over the week end. Went to the van and OH NO!! van is dead, no battery, Ron and June still looking after us. They stuck around with us til 1:00 am until the AAA came to save us. All in all we had a wonderful time and now anxious to be with all of you our loving and supporting friends. see you all later.
Here are a few pictures of our relaxing week at Waikaloa. Even made goard bowls with an instructor, which was all of 2 hours of painting on the bowls, with our artistic talent. a time together on Saturday night with the whole family getting in out cooking our dinner. Jeff slicing all the vege's, Mitchell making donburi, and the gals doing all the finishing touches. and finally a family picture. Bye for now and thank you to all of you.
Here are a few pictures of our relaxing week at Waikaloa. Even made goard bowls with an instructor, which was all of 2 hours of painting on the bowls, with our artistic talent. a time together on Saturday night with the whole family getting in out cooking our dinner. Jeff slicing all the vege's, Mitchell making donburi, and the gals doing all the finishing touches. and finally a family picture. Bye for now and thank you to all of you.
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Thanks for your support
Hi everyone! I have been thinking of you so often and miss you so much. I would love to speak to all of you in person, and hope I can visit with you soon. In the meantime, this blog will help keep you updated on what's going on with me and my health.
I will be going through my treatment with this medication which has a great success rate for Asian, non smoking women who have the non small cell cancer, carcinoma. Being that my cancer is inoperable and I do have live cancer cells on different parts of my body, the oncologist feels that this drug may slow the cancer down or even stop the growth. The doctor will do blood test and ct scans periodically, we will see how successful it is going to be. The drug is called Tarceva.
You are all such a blessing to me, a source of giving me strength and joy. I just want to tell you, how glad I am that God blessed my life with all of you. This medication has side effect of drying up my skin and making me itchy, and I may look really ugly, but I can deal with that.
Our son Ron and daughter-in-law June made plans last November to go to Kona and invited us to help celebrate their 25th anniversary on February 12th . Since I am feeling okay right now, we will all be going to Kona and plan to have a super great time. Ron and June left February 8th and we will be leaving on February 11th and be back on Friday the 15th. Our 2 daughters Juli and Robbi will also join us and our super son in laws will be taking care of their children til we return. I will begin my treatment on the 18th.
When I return from Hawaii I will connect with all of you again.
Love you,
Dottie
I will be going through my treatment with this medication which has a great success rate for Asian, non smoking women who have the non small cell cancer, carcinoma. Being that my cancer is inoperable and I do have live cancer cells on different parts of my body, the oncologist feels that this drug may slow the cancer down or even stop the growth. The doctor will do blood test and ct scans periodically, we will see how successful it is going to be. The drug is called Tarceva.
You are all such a blessing to me, a source of giving me strength and joy. I just want to tell you, how glad I am that God blessed my life with all of you. This medication has side effect of drying up my skin and making me itchy, and I may look really ugly, but I can deal with that.
Our son Ron and daughter-in-law June made plans last November to go to Kona and invited us to help celebrate their 25th anniversary on February 12th . Since I am feeling okay right now, we will all be going to Kona and plan to have a super great time. Ron and June left February 8th and we will be leaving on February 11th and be back on Friday the 15th. Our 2 daughters Juli and Robbi will also join us and our super son in laws will be taking care of their children til we return. I will begin my treatment on the 18th.
When I return from Hawaii I will connect with all of you again.
Love you,
Dottie
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