To any and all who have the opportunity to see this blog, take the time to go back to the beginning of the older posts, (2008) and read through the life of Thomas Allen Bright , born November 21, 1982 and went home to his Lord, July 23, 2011. His journey over the past 10 years (2001 - 2011) written about in these posts is an inspiration that you will carry within your soul for eternity. It will help any who are struggling with any of life's afflictions, tragedies, having bad days, loss of loved ones, but most of all celebrating life.
He was my family's superman!
Thank You
Pat Carver
You are visitor number
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Farewell to Thomas, our Superman
Friday, July 22nd. Stacie woke Thomas to try to get him to go to an MRI that was scheduled that morning. Thomas told Stacie he did not want to go and started talking with Stacie telling her "Let me go, just let me go". He knew it was time. Stacie called his doctor's office and they rescheduled his MRI for 3:50 p.m. When Stacie told him of the rescheduled time, he again said,"no, I'm not going, I won't be here, I'll be in a better place". I knew then that Thomas truly knew this day was going to be his final day. He said 3:45 several different times, but would not give us an explanation. He told us to let him rest there in peace, just keep him comfortable. He did not want to go to the hospital again nor any more scans. It was so hard but Stacie and I decided to grant his wishes and we let him sleep and rest comfortably that Friday. Around 3 or 3:30 Stacie woke him to give him some of his meds, he seemed to be getting uncomfortable an experiencing some pain, about 5 minutes after taking his meds, he immediately threw them up. We at that time made the call to get an ambulance and transport him to the hospital, he was getting worse, not talking clearly, and without his meds would be in pain. Stacie had talked with his doctors and nurses several times that day to have them help her make these painful decisions on granting his wishes of not taking any further action. We knew in our hearts that he did not want to go back to the hospital but I also knew we did not want him to suffer a second, so we had him transported.
After getting him to the hospital, the doctors ordered a scan of his brain since he was not coherent enough to talk any more and they told us the unfortunate news that the tumor in his brain was hemorrhaging. They told us then there was no more they could do other than keep him comfortable. He was placed in the oncology ward in room 566. From that point on, Stacie and I, Tom, his Dad, Mom, Sisters, Aunts, cousins, friends etc. we sat with him and made sure he was taken care of. Around 3 a.m. several family members had already left or had to leave and at that time Thomas was resting comfortably. Around 4, he seemed to become agitated, so his wonderful nurse, Heath, came in and administered his medications, his blood pressure was real high and they told us to expect this. Heath also told me at that time his breathing was getting slower and we needed to watch him closely. I had convinced Stacie to lay day and get some sleep around 3, so I decided to wake her and explained to her that Thomas seemed to be getting worse. Jana and Kaylen, Stacie and I, sat with him and in a very few minutes, Thomas went very peacefully to join his Lord in Heaven. I glanced at the clock and it said 4:35 on July 23rd, 2011.
We all at that moment realized that Thomas had tried to tell us the time, we feel he just had his numbers confused, instead of 3:45, it was 4:35 a.m. I witnessed more in Thomas's final hours in how God can work, I felt God was talking with him, guiding him and caring for him in such a gentle manner that day to bring Thomas home in such a glorious and honorable way. Thomas had accepted God and I knew his trust and faith let him go in such a peaceful and wishful way. As he told me, "he was going to run into his mansion". His last 2 weeks were also wonderful, he was in such a good state of mind, eating everything he could, (this was probably due to the steroids, but he was eating!) and talking freely about what may be happening. Getting to speak one-on-one with loved ones and coming to his final peace. We had an absolutely marvelous 4th of July, this was his favorite time of year, he loved fireworks. He and I bought a whole truck load. We had 30 or 40 or more family and friends and all seemed perfect. He got to come to the Carver Reunion on the 16th, so many family members got to see him there too. He ate good and had a good day. Later that evening, He, Stacie and I went to Parkway Drive-in an watched the last Harry Potter film and Zoo Keeper. He had a really great time. So as usual, Thomas did what Thomas wanted to do and he was always so good at it.
He had fought so long and so hard over the past 10 years, but at the same time, Thomas was one who looked at this disease as something in his way and he worked and lived and accomplished so much in his short time here, more than most do in a long lifetime. All the many treatments, the loss of the use of his legs, the deteriation of his body, but he always had a smile and he always kept going. He was an absolute amazement to me and he has given me so much and given so much to my family. His love, his friendship, his all, that he gave to Stacie and Julie was wonderful and his legacy will live with us always. I can't say enough good about him, but I can say, if anyone out there needs encouragement, read Thomas's story here in this blog. One of my high school class mates shared his thoughts and I'd like to share his quote, Jim summed it up with these very words;
" I read the blog and would recommend that everyone read it. It follows a family through the roller coaster ride of this terrible affliction. It illustrates how a family fights together and props each other up through a long ordeal. It speaks to the power of a good outlook and humor in the worst of crises. The spirit exhibited by young Thomas was amazing and inspiring. The human body can be conquered, the human spirit cannot."
Thomas's funeral turned out to be very consoling. Family and friends filed through non-stop for 2 hours and the chapel was full for his service. As Reverend Craig Carlson and Reverend Jason Blair stated, it was obvious the number of people who cared and loved Thomas and also how much Thomas had inspired and touched them. We were fortunate enough to find a recording of a song he loved for years that his Grandmother used to sing, so even though she left us few years ago, she got to sing for him right before the service started. Jason and Graig did a wonderful job helping us through the grief and sorrow and I want to thank them with all my heart for all the kind words and the scriptures that summed up Thomas's final evening with us all. Graig has known Thomas and Stacie for years, he spent a week rooming with Thomas at a youth camp when they were still in high school, he also privileged us by marrying Stacie and Thomas on May 6, 2003. So I know he loved being able to be there to say his own goodbye too.
Tom and I are trying very hard to hold it together and and I know we will and I also know Stacie and Julie will come to terms with his loss and I know as Julie says "Daddy is with Jesus and I don't have to worry about him anymore". If a 6 year old can understand and have that simple faith, then we can too and we will. Thomas told Stacie Friday, I just want you and Julie to be happy and I know as difficult as it is now, they will eventually experience many years of happiness. My final words I will be saying here are very simple, but very true and they come from my heart, I had quoted this on my facebook and I want to share it here:
Best wishes of Love, Luck and Laughter throughout your days till we all meet with him in God's house.
Pat Carver
After getting him to the hospital, the doctors ordered a scan of his brain since he was not coherent enough to talk any more and they told us the unfortunate news that the tumor in his brain was hemorrhaging. They told us then there was no more they could do other than keep him comfortable. He was placed in the oncology ward in room 566. From that point on, Stacie and I, Tom, his Dad, Mom, Sisters, Aunts, cousins, friends etc. we sat with him and made sure he was taken care of. Around 3 a.m. several family members had already left or had to leave and at that time Thomas was resting comfortably. Around 4, he seemed to become agitated, so his wonderful nurse, Heath, came in and administered his medications, his blood pressure was real high and they told us to expect this. Heath also told me at that time his breathing was getting slower and we needed to watch him closely. I had convinced Stacie to lay day and get some sleep around 3, so I decided to wake her and explained to her that Thomas seemed to be getting worse. Jana and Kaylen, Stacie and I, sat with him and in a very few minutes, Thomas went very peacefully to join his Lord in Heaven. I glanced at the clock and it said 4:35 on July 23rd, 2011.
We all at that moment realized that Thomas had tried to tell us the time, we feel he just had his numbers confused, instead of 3:45, it was 4:35 a.m. I witnessed more in Thomas's final hours in how God can work, I felt God was talking with him, guiding him and caring for him in such a gentle manner that day to bring Thomas home in such a glorious and honorable way. Thomas had accepted God and I knew his trust and faith let him go in such a peaceful and wishful way. As he told me, "he was going to run into his mansion". His last 2 weeks were also wonderful, he was in such a good state of mind, eating everything he could, (this was probably due to the steroids, but he was eating!) and talking freely about what may be happening. Getting to speak one-on-one with loved ones and coming to his final peace. We had an absolutely marvelous 4th of July, this was his favorite time of year, he loved fireworks. He and I bought a whole truck load. We had 30 or 40 or more family and friends and all seemed perfect. He got to come to the Carver Reunion on the 16th, so many family members got to see him there too. He ate good and had a good day. Later that evening, He, Stacie and I went to Parkway Drive-in an watched the last Harry Potter film and Zoo Keeper. He had a really great time. So as usual, Thomas did what Thomas wanted to do and he was always so good at it.
He had fought so long and so hard over the past 10 years, but at the same time, Thomas was one who looked at this disease as something in his way and he worked and lived and accomplished so much in his short time here, more than most do in a long lifetime. All the many treatments, the loss of the use of his legs, the deteriation of his body, but he always had a smile and he always kept going. He was an absolute amazement to me and he has given me so much and given so much to my family. His love, his friendship, his all, that he gave to Stacie and Julie was wonderful and his legacy will live with us always. I can't say enough good about him, but I can say, if anyone out there needs encouragement, read Thomas's story here in this blog. One of my high school class mates shared his thoughts and I'd like to share his quote, Jim summed it up with these very words;
" I read the blog and would recommend that everyone read it. It follows a family through the roller coaster ride of this terrible affliction. It illustrates how a family fights together and props each other up through a long ordeal. It speaks to the power of a good outlook and humor in the worst of crises. The spirit exhibited by young Thomas was amazing and inspiring. The human body can be conquered, the human spirit cannot."
Thomas's funeral turned out to be very consoling. Family and friends filed through non-stop for 2 hours and the chapel was full for his service. As Reverend Craig Carlson and Reverend Jason Blair stated, it was obvious the number of people who cared and loved Thomas and also how much Thomas had inspired and touched them. We were fortunate enough to find a recording of a song he loved for years that his Grandmother used to sing, so even though she left us few years ago, she got to sing for him right before the service started. Jason and Graig did a wonderful job helping us through the grief and sorrow and I want to thank them with all my heart for all the kind words and the scriptures that summed up Thomas's final evening with us all. Graig has known Thomas and Stacie for years, he spent a week rooming with Thomas at a youth camp when they were still in high school, he also privileged us by marrying Stacie and Thomas on May 6, 2003. So I know he loved being able to be there to say his own goodbye too.
Tom and I are trying very hard to hold it together and and I know we will and I also know Stacie and Julie will come to terms with his loss and I know as Julie says "Daddy is with Jesus and I don't have to worry about him anymore". If a 6 year old can understand and have that simple faith, then we can too and we will. Thomas told Stacie Friday, I just want you and Julie to be happy and I know as difficult as it is now, they will eventually experience many years of happiness. My final words I will be saying here are very simple, but very true and they come from my heart, I had quoted this on my facebook and I want to share it here:
I want to thank all family and friends for their prayers and support over all these years, know truly that Thomas is at peace and we all will be with him again. He rests now at Grandview Cemetary in the Temple of Prayer section and he lives free in Heaven with his Lord and Savior!
Best wishes of Love, Luck and Laughter throughout your days till we all meet with him in God's house.
Pat Carver
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Funeral arrangements for Thomas
Receiving friends Tuesday evening 5:00 to 7:30 p.m.at Smith's Mortuary in Maryville TN which is located just past Blount Memorial Hospital on the right.
Funeral at 8:00 p.m. also at Smith's
Burial will be Wed. at 10:00. Those wishing to be in the procession will meet at Smith's.
Food can be brought to the Life Center behind Smith's where lunch will be served Wed. after the burial.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Thomas continues... (by Lillian)
I'm going to try to catch you up with what's going on with Thomas, but not sure of all the details, so will highlight what I know.
Before Thomas was released from the hospital, doctor told him a stint might drain fluid from his brain and reduce the pressure/swelling. He told them he didn't want to spend what time he had left recovering from the surgery and decided not to do it. He would go home with hospice assistance.
If you know Thomas, you know he wants to know EVERYTHING about any subject that he is involved in and this stint was no different. After he got home, he decided he wanted Stacie to take all his scans to neurosurgeon in Knoxville to find out his options before he signed up with hospice.
When someone is signed up with hospice, all ties must be severed with all doctors and treatments are no longer an option. All medical needs must be done thru hospice. Families cannot even call 911. Thomas did not want to take this final step without at least checking into the stint to satisfy his own mind that he had made the right decision about refusing the surgery.
Well... the neurosurgeon told Thomas he did not recommend the stint. If they did the stint and later the tumor started causing problems again, they would have to do more surgery to remove the tumor. Yes, remove the tumor. This doctor says the tumor at the base of his brain is operable. Thomas had been told by other doctors that surgery was not an option. This surgeon, after seeing the scans, says he can remove it.
Now, the plan is for Thomas to return in one week for another MRI in order to see what is happening with the tumor... see how Thomas is feeling, etc. If nothing is changing much, then they will wait another week or two and see what happens. IF... Thomas starts having problems like what put him in the hospital... headaches, not being able to keep down food... then surgery can be done to remove the tumor.
As far as I know, Thomas continues to feel good and not having a lot of pain. We suspect the tumor is blocking pain from lower body. I haven't heard much since I saw him on Monday.
We never count Thomas down...
Before Thomas was released from the hospital, doctor told him a stint might drain fluid from his brain and reduce the pressure/swelling. He told them he didn't want to spend what time he had left recovering from the surgery and decided not to do it. He would go home with hospice assistance.
If you know Thomas, you know he wants to know EVERYTHING about any subject that he is involved in and this stint was no different. After he got home, he decided he wanted Stacie to take all his scans to neurosurgeon in Knoxville to find out his options before he signed up with hospice.
When someone is signed up with hospice, all ties must be severed with all doctors and treatments are no longer an option. All medical needs must be done thru hospice. Families cannot even call 911. Thomas did not want to take this final step without at least checking into the stint to satisfy his own mind that he had made the right decision about refusing the surgery.
Well... the neurosurgeon told Thomas he did not recommend the stint. If they did the stint and later the tumor started causing problems again, they would have to do more surgery to remove the tumor. Yes, remove the tumor. This doctor says the tumor at the base of his brain is operable. Thomas had been told by other doctors that surgery was not an option. This surgeon, after seeing the scans, says he can remove it.
Now, the plan is for Thomas to return in one week for another MRI in order to see what is happening with the tumor... see how Thomas is feeling, etc. If nothing is changing much, then they will wait another week or two and see what happens. IF... Thomas starts having problems like what put him in the hospital... headaches, not being able to keep down food... then surgery can be done to remove the tumor.
As far as I know, Thomas continues to feel good and not having a lot of pain. We suspect the tumor is blocking pain from lower body. I haven't heard much since I saw him on Monday.
We never count Thomas down...
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Update 6/29/11
Thomas woke up this morning back to his old self. He has no memory of past three days. Option to insert stint to relieve fluids and/or pressure on his brain was explained again and he says he does not want to spend the time he has recuperating. so, no surgery.
Hospice will evaluate and if they recommend, he may go home for time being.
Addition: Thomas went home this afternoon.
Hospice will evaluate and if they recommend, he may go home for time being.
Addition: Thomas went home this afternoon.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Thomas is at the crossroad.
It is my troubled time when I must say that Thomas has reached the point that he may not be able to continue his fight against this horrible beast called melanoma cancer. For the past month he has taken a turn for the worst. He's been dealing with a lot of pain and his right hip has worsened like the left hip and he no longer can walk at all. He has been in a wheelchair for about the last 6 months and can no longer stand for no more than just to get from his recliner or bed into his wheelchair. This past weekend has been his worst. He got to where he could not tolerate to eat, the smell or even talking about food made him sick. Everything he ate would make him get sick and throw up immediately. He's also lost so much weight.
To bring things to a little more light, the tumor on his cerebrum in the brain has returned and they can no longer pursue any treatment. It is causing pressure on the brain and he has a lot of pain in his neck where it is located. One good side, what ever is going on, he's not had to take his pain medicine for the rest of his body since Saturday, he seems not be be in pain except for this area and it is only occasionally. I'm assuming that the pressure and possible swelling on the brain is deadening the pain throughout his body. He has lost a lot of weight and his body is finally getting to the point I just don't feel he will be able to have the strength to fight much longer.
It breaks my heart and is ripping my soul apart to see him as he is but he's still a wonder and he's still doing the best fight he can. Stacie had to take him back to Blount Memorial Hospital yesterday morning and Dr. McCathren pulled Stacie aside and told her, "you do realize it is close to the end". They made the call to admit him and I don't know at this point if he'll get to home again or not. They did blood work and also another MRI last night and we are now waiting on the results of the MRI on the brain. I also know my Guy, he'll fight to the end. At this point we do not know for sure when his fight may be over.
It has also reached the point where we are trying to find the right words and manner to let Julie who is now 6 yrs old know what it happening with her Daddy. It is so difficult to try to tell her and to know if she truly understands. She knows Daddy is sick and since he's been in the wheelchair she says Daddy is hurt. I feel she does understand more than what we may think and she is another priority in our hearts right now too. Stacie is being a wonder in herself, I know she too is wanting to fall into a thousand pieces but she is maintaining the best she can and is by his side and will be till God makes his call on what will be best for Thomas. I know God is with him and will take him home when it is time. I feel too he's doing his best to make sure Thomas is not in a lot of pain. Thomas told me a few weeks ago he's really not afraid of dying, he said, "I'll get my legs back", so I know too I can rest in heart and soul knowing he will go home to be with our Lord.
We are finally at the time of waiting! Please pray for him and please know we are so thankful for family and friends during this time and I know God will get us through whatever will be. I hope I'm wrong but I also pray he will not suffer.
With love and sincere thanks
Pat
To bring things to a little more light, the tumor on his cerebrum in the brain has returned and they can no longer pursue any treatment. It is causing pressure on the brain and he has a lot of pain in his neck where it is located. One good side, what ever is going on, he's not had to take his pain medicine for the rest of his body since Saturday, he seems not be be in pain except for this area and it is only occasionally. I'm assuming that the pressure and possible swelling on the brain is deadening the pain throughout his body. He has lost a lot of weight and his body is finally getting to the point I just don't feel he will be able to have the strength to fight much longer.
It breaks my heart and is ripping my soul apart to see him as he is but he's still a wonder and he's still doing the best fight he can. Stacie had to take him back to Blount Memorial Hospital yesterday morning and Dr. McCathren pulled Stacie aside and told her, "you do realize it is close to the end". They made the call to admit him and I don't know at this point if he'll get to home again or not. They did blood work and also another MRI last night and we are now waiting on the results of the MRI on the brain. I also know my Guy, he'll fight to the end. At this point we do not know for sure when his fight may be over.
It has also reached the point where we are trying to find the right words and manner to let Julie who is now 6 yrs old know what it happening with her Daddy. It is so difficult to try to tell her and to know if she truly understands. She knows Daddy is sick and since he's been in the wheelchair she says Daddy is hurt. I feel she does understand more than what we may think and she is another priority in our hearts right now too. Stacie is being a wonder in herself, I know she too is wanting to fall into a thousand pieces but she is maintaining the best she can and is by his side and will be till God makes his call on what will be best for Thomas. I know God is with him and will take him home when it is time. I feel too he's doing his best to make sure Thomas is not in a lot of pain. Thomas told me a few weeks ago he's really not afraid of dying, he said, "I'll get my legs back", so I know too I can rest in heart and soul knowing he will go home to be with our Lord.
We are finally at the time of waiting! Please pray for him and please know we are so thankful for family and friends during this time and I know God will get us through whatever will be. I hope I'm wrong but I also pray he will not suffer.
With love and sincere thanks
Pat
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Thomas starting chemo treatments 9/29/10
Thomas has had his radiation on his left hip to see if the tumor that had increased and was causing so much pain could be put back in control. It did seem to help, but, after the radiation more scans were done to see what effect had taken place and the doctors found that the cancer has now spread from the hip down his femur bone in his leg. The only other treatment that they can try is a type of chemo that may get the spreading of the cancer back under control. He has opted to take a treatment once a week for 3 weeks, have a break and continue as such for as long as needed. It may make him sick, won't know until he gives it a try. They had told him he could take a treatment once every 3 weeks, but that this method would definitely make him real sick for about a week, so he decided to try the once a week for 3 weeks instead.
We can only hope and pray that these treatments will help him and again get this ugly beast under control.
They have finally closed and moved into their new house and are currently trying to get things organized. It is a beautiful place, 3 bedroom, 2 bath, full 2 carport garage plus free standing carport at back of house. It also has a full underground pool, hottub and a beautiful fenced in patio circling the pool. A small utility house equipped with a comode for outside use when using the pool. A cute little sign on the fence that reads, "welcome to our OOL! Notice there is no "P" in the pool so lets keep it that way. LOL Their new home is sitting on a beautiful lot and in a very nice neighborhood. They are really quite proud of it. Julie has already made a new friend, a little girl 6 years of age lives right next door. So they have become friends already. They are riding the bus to and from school together, so that has been a plus too. Julie seems to love riding the bus and still loves school. A-Plus!
Life can be filled with so much heartache, but at the same time, life is still going strong for Thomas and he is still our lift for support, he's looking forward to Thanksgiving at the new house for all our families, Stacie has volunteered to cook and he's going to be celebrating his 28th birthday on Nov 21st. I know the "Big Man" has had a plan for Thomas for a long time and I pray he will continue to be with us to fulfill these plans for a much longer time.
Please keep him in your prayers and always try to see each and every day as a wonderful new beginning of life.
With love and thanks
Pat
We can only hope and pray that these treatments will help him and again get this ugly beast under control.
They have finally closed and moved into their new house and are currently trying to get things organized. It is a beautiful place, 3 bedroom, 2 bath, full 2 carport garage plus free standing carport at back of house. It also has a full underground pool, hottub and a beautiful fenced in patio circling the pool. A small utility house equipped with a comode for outside use when using the pool. A cute little sign on the fence that reads, "welcome to our OOL! Notice there is no "P" in the pool so lets keep it that way. LOL Their new home is sitting on a beautiful lot and in a very nice neighborhood. They are really quite proud of it. Julie has already made a new friend, a little girl 6 years of age lives right next door. So they have become friends already. They are riding the bus to and from school together, so that has been a plus too. Julie seems to love riding the bus and still loves school. A-Plus!
Life can be filled with so much heartache, but at the same time, life is still going strong for Thomas and he is still our lift for support, he's looking forward to Thanksgiving at the new house for all our families, Stacie has volunteered to cook and he's going to be celebrating his 28th birthday on Nov 21st. I know the "Big Man" has had a plan for Thomas for a long time and I pray he will continue to be with us to fulfill these plans for a much longer time.
Please keep him in your prayers and always try to see each and every day as a wonderful new beginning of life.
With love and thanks
Pat
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Thomas update 9/7/10 Difficult Times
Hello: Want to post a few updates on Thomas. Currently for the past couple of months, Thomas has been having some real painful issues. He has been experiencing horrible pain in his hips and legs, loosing strength in his legs and having diffculty managing to walk. He was walking with the aid of a cane to help with balance and unfortunately now has to use a walker or wheelchair. The tumor in his left hip has increased and is causing most of the pain. He discovered he also has a bulging disk in his lower back and there's not a whole lot to be done concerning this either.
Dr Petty is now doing radiation on his left hip, 10 treatments currently in progress. He is taking a lot of pain medications trying to control his pain levels and is doing some better as of this week. He's not been able to drive anymore, at least not for the time being, and I'm sure he is dealing with some depression due to the state of what he is having to deal with. He, on the other hand, is still very optimistic, and still has that wonderful sense of humor I love about him, but I know it must be difficult for him. He was taken off the clinical trials as of March 2010, his doctors explained that his immune system is now boosted to a point his body is saying I've had all I can take. As Dr McCachren stated to him, "we have rode that horse as long as we can". It is now to the point of waiting to see what the immune system can do to control his cancer. All the tumors that were in organs, brain, lungs, etc. are still gone, he only has what is left attached to bone. Still in chest, rib & hips. He has lost quite a bit of weight, hard to keep eating as you should when you are on so many pain medications but he is doing his best.
Julie will be 6 yrs old in Jan 2011 and is now in Kindergarten this year. she still loves school, a great plus! Stacie has taken a manager's position of one of the Great Clips stores located in Alcoa and is doing her best to juggle her work, home, school and taking care of Thomas & Julie. I am so proud of her I cannot express in words how truly great she is and how far she has came in her career is such a blessing. Family is trying to help as much as possible.
They are also, if all goes well with the closing, getting ready to move into another house. It breaks mine and Tom's hearts that they are moving, but, also oh so happy for them to be able to get into a bigger place to give them all more room. The 2 bedroom trailer has reached it's limit. Thomas has no room to really get around, plus this house has an underground pool and hottub that will do him wonders. It's an older house, but has been really fixed up over the past 5 years, new roof, Thomas loves it, it is a tin roof, talk about some good sleep'n! 3 bedroom, 2 baths, all one level, to make it much easier for him to get around, full carport, etc. The pool is only 5 yrs old and it's in a good country setting not too far from us.
As I watch Thomas, I can see he is having some difficult times, but we are still waiting on that miracle and we are still bound by his strength to keep doing what ever is necessary to continue to fight this bad beast. He is my amazing son-in-law, reality, a son to Tom and me and he's now also one of God's lambs. They attend church as much as possible and Thomas has the Lord in his heart. This I know, alone, will give him more strength to endure.
Please say those extra prayers for Thomas, Stacie & Julie and all of us as we continue to have this amazing person in our lives, fighting for his life. He will be celebrating his 28th birthday in November. He deserves so much and he has given so much more.
Love you all
Pat
Dr Petty is now doing radiation on his left hip, 10 treatments currently in progress. He is taking a lot of pain medications trying to control his pain levels and is doing some better as of this week. He's not been able to drive anymore, at least not for the time being, and I'm sure he is dealing with some depression due to the state of what he is having to deal with. He, on the other hand, is still very optimistic, and still has that wonderful sense of humor I love about him, but I know it must be difficult for him. He was taken off the clinical trials as of March 2010, his doctors explained that his immune system is now boosted to a point his body is saying I've had all I can take. As Dr McCachren stated to him, "we have rode that horse as long as we can". It is now to the point of waiting to see what the immune system can do to control his cancer. All the tumors that were in organs, brain, lungs, etc. are still gone, he only has what is left attached to bone. Still in chest, rib & hips. He has lost quite a bit of weight, hard to keep eating as you should when you are on so many pain medications but he is doing his best.
Julie will be 6 yrs old in Jan 2011 and is now in Kindergarten this year. she still loves school, a great plus! Stacie has taken a manager's position of one of the Great Clips stores located in Alcoa and is doing her best to juggle her work, home, school and taking care of Thomas & Julie. I am so proud of her I cannot express in words how truly great she is and how far she has came in her career is such a blessing. Family is trying to help as much as possible.
They are also, if all goes well with the closing, getting ready to move into another house. It breaks mine and Tom's hearts that they are moving, but, also oh so happy for them to be able to get into a bigger place to give them all more room. The 2 bedroom trailer has reached it's limit. Thomas has no room to really get around, plus this house has an underground pool and hottub that will do him wonders. It's an older house, but has been really fixed up over the past 5 years, new roof, Thomas loves it, it is a tin roof, talk about some good sleep'n! 3 bedroom, 2 baths, all one level, to make it much easier for him to get around, full carport, etc. The pool is only 5 yrs old and it's in a good country setting not too far from us.
As I watch Thomas, I can see he is having some difficult times, but we are still waiting on that miracle and we are still bound by his strength to keep doing what ever is necessary to continue to fight this bad beast. He is my amazing son-in-law, reality, a son to Tom and me and he's now also one of God's lambs. They attend church as much as possible and Thomas has the Lord in his heart. This I know, alone, will give him more strength to endure.
Please say those extra prayers for Thomas, Stacie & Julie and all of us as we continue to have this amazing person in our lives, fighting for his life. He will be celebrating his 28th birthday in November. He deserves so much and he has given so much more.
Love you all
Pat
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Test results 4/1/10
Thomas had his 1st scans done following his every 3 week instead of every 3 month treatments on 3/31/10 and we met with his doctors on 4/1/10 for the results. We are again in humble thanks, all still looks good, Doc said his brain is still normal, of course we had to object LOL, doc corrected himself and said all looked normal, did not know if he was using it normal? lol, haha! All other areas look good too. The new place in his chest that was giving them so much concern seems to be stabilized and has not changed any. All others same way, no new tumors, all still being controlled. We could not have asked for better news. He's still experiencing pain in his right hip and leg, but he's been doing some self-stretch routines each morning and it seems to be helping, plus still controlling the pain when necessary with Ibuprophen and Hydros if needed.
Some more outstanding news, couple Sundays ago, at a little church in Maryville called Outreach, Thomas went to the altar and dedicated his life to our Lord, Jesus Christ. He has now found the truth and salvation and has become one of God's Lambs. He and Stacie both have found that calling and seem to have found more happiness, more love and more peace knowing they have been saved by the grace of God. What ever roads they must travel will now be easier and at the end of those roads will be the greatest gift of all, Eternal life with our Lord and Savior.
Thomas has bought himself a nice Ford F150 Truck, shiny red, extended cab, makes it so much easier for him to get around. The little ole car he had before was just get'n to be a headache for him to get in and out of and changing gears was a pain not needed. He's just bout got his fishing boat finished and the time is just around the corner when you'll be finding him, Stacie and Julie at the lake, camping, fishing and enjoying life. Definitely going to be joining them as much as possible myself!!
We can only keep our faith that what ever plan the "Big Man" has for Thomas will become a long and fruitful chore for Thomas to do for many years to come. So far, his treatments have been doing miracles and we now know that God is definitely on his side. He truly has been blessed in so many ways. Please keep him in your prayers and I know he will continue to fight with all he's got to make sure this ugly beast stays under control.
Thanks to you all for your support and may your life be filled with love, luck and laughter
Pat
Some more outstanding news, couple Sundays ago, at a little church in Maryville called Outreach, Thomas went to the altar and dedicated his life to our Lord, Jesus Christ. He has now found the truth and salvation and has become one of God's Lambs. He and Stacie both have found that calling and seem to have found more happiness, more love and more peace knowing they have been saved by the grace of God. What ever roads they must travel will now be easier and at the end of those roads will be the greatest gift of all, Eternal life with our Lord and Savior.
Thomas has bought himself a nice Ford F150 Truck, shiny red, extended cab, makes it so much easier for him to get around. The little ole car he had before was just get'n to be a headache for him to get in and out of and changing gears was a pain not needed. He's just bout got his fishing boat finished and the time is just around the corner when you'll be finding him, Stacie and Julie at the lake, camping, fishing and enjoying life. Definitely going to be joining them as much as possible myself!!
We can only keep our faith that what ever plan the "Big Man" has for Thomas will become a long and fruitful chore for Thomas to do for many years to come. So far, his treatments have been doing miracles and we now know that God is definitely on his side. He truly has been blessed in so many ways. Please keep him in your prayers and I know he will continue to fight with all he's got to make sure this ugly beast stays under control.
Thanks to you all for your support and may your life be filled with love, luck and laughter
Pat
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Update past few months on Thomas Fall 09 to 3/11/10
It's been a while since update, so I'll try to catch everyone up. First of all, Thomas celebrated his 27th birthday on Nov 21, 2009. He's such a cutie!!
We've had some great holidays, Halloween was a HOOT! We had a great old fashioned Halloween Costume Party at the Carver Den as we call it, my downstairs bar. About 25 or so of the best spooks were there and we all had a blast! Thanksgiving as usual, stuffed on turkey, good family gatherings. Christmas as always, filled with fun, Santa bring'n our little ones good things and great family get-togethers and giving thanks to Jesus Christ our Savior.
Around fall of last year Thomas somehow fractured his right hip and did not know it. He had been bothered with pain in his hip and leg and when scans done, he found he had a fracture. We assumed it was from where he had been walking so much on a daily basis on pavement, concrete etc. at work selling cars. The continuous impact aided in the fracture, not real sure, just guessing since he doesn't really know how he did it. His doctors realized that the area in his right hip where one of his melanoma tumors are, even though micro size, had weakened the hip joint and allowed the fracture.
At this same time, Thomas and his doctors decided it was best for him to retire from the working world. This was a very hard decision for Thomas but for his best interest it was the right call. Fortunately, he could draw short-term disability ,again,thru work through Jan 10 and he has been fully approved for disability from social security, but, he's had to wait 6 mos before receiving any money, so they have had to watch their financial issues. Hopefully, the last of April his 1st check from disability will arrive, which will be retro'd to beginning disability date and they can get back to some peace of mind with a steady income. So, Feb and March will be their hardest financial crunch to get through then with his SS disability things should improve.
He has been spending his time, picking Julie up from pre-school each day, and spending a lot of good quality time with her, working on a fishing boat getting it ready to hit the fish'n holes in spring. Visiting relatives, most of all, just hang'n around the house and hang'n out with family and friends. You can find him on Facebook and playing poker on-line. Keeping him from over-doing is the key factor we all deal with. But, as hard as it has been to get away from the working world, he is adjusting. I won't call him a house-husband, but he has been quite helpful around the house.
In January 2010, from his scans, they found that a new lesion has appeared on his right 5th rib close to the other one and increased in size significantly to make them decide that Thomas needed to be put back on what they refer to as the induction period, which means, instead of treatments every 3 mos, he is back to having them every 3 weeks. This will hopefully get this new lesion back under control. All others are still under control. He is experiencing more fatigue mainly in his leg muscles and hips and ususally has to take ibuprophen or hydros to control his pain sometimes, but mostly he maintains quite well on his own. Climbing stairs is quite a chore and going to Jump Zone for birthday parties is out of his daily routine, he of course overdid this a few weeks ago, sliding down slides, tumbling, etc. plus same afternoon, at a 2nd birthday party, shot basketball which just added to the pain. He was quite sore the next day. So, I think he is learning to pace himself better. Had to tell on him! But, over-all, Thomas is still doing extrodinarily great! and I say more power to him. Being a kid is hard to stop doing and oh so much fun.
Julie turned 5 on Jan 21st, 2010 and she's keeping him on his toes. It's get'n warmer, so 4 wheel'n is the thing right now, roll'n across the fields around the house is something they both love to do. I'm sure as weather gets warmer, camping, fishing, cookouts, 4 wheel'n, you name it, if it has fun, a little dare-devilish and relaxation as a description, Thomas will be fully involved. He and Stacie and Julie are all doing oh so fine, Stacie is still working full-time at Great Clips at the strip mall beside the new Walmart on 411, so her income has definitely helped keep them afloat. Any time you're by that way, look for her bright yellow GTO, stop in and see her and get a new do.
His next scans are scheduled for Mar 29th and results on Mar 30th. As usual, we keep the prayers roll'n and we keep the faith good news will prevail. Thomas is one of God's lambs and he looks out for him and has so far blessed him with so much and I pray he will continue to do so. He has blessed my family more than he will ever know!
If you'd like to contact Thomas, look for him as I said on Facebook or give him a call at 865-254-2342 or call me at 865-661-8489. Thank you for all your prayers and good wishes. I'll try to do better about up-dating his blog.
Love you all
Pat
We've had some great holidays, Halloween was a HOOT! We had a great old fashioned Halloween Costume Party at the Carver Den as we call it, my downstairs bar. About 25 or so of the best spooks were there and we all had a blast! Thanksgiving as usual, stuffed on turkey, good family gatherings. Christmas as always, filled with fun, Santa bring'n our little ones good things and great family get-togethers and giving thanks to Jesus Christ our Savior.
Around fall of last year Thomas somehow fractured his right hip and did not know it. He had been bothered with pain in his hip and leg and when scans done, he found he had a fracture. We assumed it was from where he had been walking so much on a daily basis on pavement, concrete etc. at work selling cars. The continuous impact aided in the fracture, not real sure, just guessing since he doesn't really know how he did it. His doctors realized that the area in his right hip where one of his melanoma tumors are, even though micro size, had weakened the hip joint and allowed the fracture.
At this same time, Thomas and his doctors decided it was best for him to retire from the working world. This was a very hard decision for Thomas but for his best interest it was the right call. Fortunately, he could draw short-term disability ,again,thru work through Jan 10 and he has been fully approved for disability from social security, but, he's had to wait 6 mos before receiving any money, so they have had to watch their financial issues. Hopefully, the last of April his 1st check from disability will arrive, which will be retro'd to beginning disability date and they can get back to some peace of mind with a steady income. So, Feb and March will be their hardest financial crunch to get through then with his SS disability things should improve.
He has been spending his time, picking Julie up from pre-school each day, and spending a lot of good quality time with her, working on a fishing boat getting it ready to hit the fish'n holes in spring. Visiting relatives, most of all, just hang'n around the house and hang'n out with family and friends. You can find him on Facebook and playing poker on-line. Keeping him from over-doing is the key factor we all deal with. But, as hard as it has been to get away from the working world, he is adjusting. I won't call him a house-husband, but he has been quite helpful around the house.
In January 2010, from his scans, they found that a new lesion has appeared on his right 5th rib close to the other one and increased in size significantly to make them decide that Thomas needed to be put back on what they refer to as the induction period, which means, instead of treatments every 3 mos, he is back to having them every 3 weeks. This will hopefully get this new lesion back under control. All others are still under control. He is experiencing more fatigue mainly in his leg muscles and hips and ususally has to take ibuprophen or hydros to control his pain sometimes, but mostly he maintains quite well on his own. Climbing stairs is quite a chore and going to Jump Zone for birthday parties is out of his daily routine, he of course overdid this a few weeks ago, sliding down slides, tumbling, etc. plus same afternoon, at a 2nd birthday party, shot basketball which just added to the pain. He was quite sore the next day. So, I think he is learning to pace himself better. Had to tell on him! But, over-all, Thomas is still doing extrodinarily great! and I say more power to him. Being a kid is hard to stop doing and oh so much fun.
Julie turned 5 on Jan 21st, 2010 and she's keeping him on his toes. It's get'n warmer, so 4 wheel'n is the thing right now, roll'n across the fields around the house is something they both love to do. I'm sure as weather gets warmer, camping, fishing, cookouts, 4 wheel'n, you name it, if it has fun, a little dare-devilish and relaxation as a description, Thomas will be fully involved. He and Stacie and Julie are all doing oh so fine, Stacie is still working full-time at Great Clips at the strip mall beside the new Walmart on 411, so her income has definitely helped keep them afloat. Any time you're by that way, look for her bright yellow GTO, stop in and see her and get a new do.
His next scans are scheduled for Mar 29th and results on Mar 30th. As usual, we keep the prayers roll'n and we keep the faith good news will prevail. Thomas is one of God's lambs and he looks out for him and has so far blessed him with so much and I pray he will continue to do so. He has blessed my family more than he will ever know!
If you'd like to contact Thomas, look for him as I said on Facebook or give him a call at 865-254-2342 or call me at 865-661-8489. Thank you for all your prayers and good wishes. I'll try to do better about up-dating his blog.
Love you all
Pat
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Results of Scans Tuesday 10/20/09
Thomas is still our miracle baby!! We got great news once again, no tumors have increased and even the 4 that had, doc says they have actually decreased a little. He's still dealing with the fractured hip, feeling some weakness in his right leg, especially when walking up steps, doc says that will take time and due to the damage from the tumor to the bone area, it may not heal for quite some time. He's hoping since Thomas had both hips radiated, this will help to let things heal faster. The place in Thomas' chest that he had radiated few months ago, seems to be doing better. Not causing him pain as it was before. I just keep praying and giving thanks to our good Lord and I know he's doing his best.
Now if Social Security will come thru for him and he starts drawing his disability since he can no longer work, then Thomas can dedicate his time to him and taking care of himself, enjoying some quality life and times and get rid of some STRESS!! He doesn't have to deal with scans or treatments again til NEXT YEAR! Don't that sound good. His next appt for scans is Jan 11th, treatment Jan 12th, 2010.
Keep Thomas in your prayers and we thank God for his blessings.
Loving my boy
Pat
Now if Social Security will come thru for him and he starts drawing his disability since he can no longer work, then Thomas can dedicate his time to him and taking care of himself, enjoying some quality life and times and get rid of some STRESS!! He doesn't have to deal with scans or treatments again til NEXT YEAR! Don't that sound good. His next appt for scans is Jan 11th, treatment Jan 12th, 2010.
Keep Thomas in your prayers and we thank God for his blessings.
Loving my boy
Pat
Friday, September 18, 2009
Thomas is having some problems
Hello: We have found out that Thomas has a fractured right hip where one of his tumors is at. They feel from where he had been walking so much on pavement at work he has fractured his hip and did not know it. He's been having a lot of pain over the past few weeks.
The docs did new MRI's and scans and he has now found out that the tumors in his right and left hip have increased again. Also, the tumors in his chest (2) have increased by 1 cm. At this point, we do not know if his treatments are no longer working or what. They are going to radiate both hips to try to stop what's happening.
They are also telling him he needs to stop working. Thomas has made the call to apply for disability and not return to work.
We do not know for sure what is going on, but please put him in your prayers.
Thanks
Pat
The docs did new MRI's and scans and he has now found out that the tumors in his right and left hip have increased again. Also, the tumors in his chest (2) have increased by 1 cm. At this point, we do not know if his treatments are no longer working or what. They are going to radiate both hips to try to stop what's happening.
They are also telling him he needs to stop working. Thomas has made the call to apply for disability and not return to work.
We do not know for sure what is going on, but please put him in your prayers.
Thanks
Pat
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Just a Hello filled with Thanks 5-13-09
Hello: I'd like to take a moment to thank each and all who have helped Thomas and Stacie & Julie (my son-in-law, daughter and granddaughter) over the past year and past 6 years, either thru prayer, financially, support or just a passing thought of wishing them well. Without family and friends, a life threatening illness can cause so much pain, worry, feelings of total loss and desperation. I consider all of you as my family. I also want to let you know that at the moment, Thomas, again, is defeating the melanoma cancer! HURRAH AND THANK GOD FOR HIS MIRACLES! He has been fighting this demon since he was 18 yrs old.
Thomas turned 26 yrs old this past November and today is doing so fantastic, it is hard to conceive. I guess the word is BELIEVE! He no longer has any cancer in his brain, just scarring where the tumors (7 or so) were, very few throughout torso (8 or so), any left that are still measurable, which is only 1, is drastically reduced. He will continue to have full body scans, MRI's, bone scans, etc and a treatment every 3 mos for the rest of his life. So every 3 months we gear up, hard not to prepare for the worst and so far, we are getting the best!! A year ago things really looked so dim and the outlook did not seem there would be any possibility he could defeat this. His doctors right along with us are in amazement.
Thomas' attitude has always been as if this was just a toothache, get on with it, get on with life. He once said, the Big Man obviously has a plan for me. Instead of filing for disability as his doctors tried to convince him to do, he is still working full time at Carmax and pushing for all his might. Unfortunately, he did loose his sales manager position this past week, but he immediately went right back to being a salesman since they had some of those positions open, Carmax had to cut back on managers nationwide due to our economy crisis. But, that's Thomas, started as a car salesman, climbed that ladder, but he can do it again. Success is the only word Thomas knows how to say, never defeat. But this fall is no comparison to what other events that could have taken place. He sold a car the first day, this past Monday, so he's back to his same ole self. He did say to let you all know if anyone needs a car, give him a call 865-254-2342 and he'll be the man you need to see.
He and Stacie just celebrated their 6th anniversary, May 6th, they have been together for a total of 10 years. I have pictures of their grade school dance, their senior prom and their wedding, if this tells you how long these 2 have been beside one another. They are also here on his blog. Julie Patrice just turned 4 in January and is growing like a weed. They are back living here in Tennessee from South Carolina and living right next door to me and Tom in a trailer we bought and set up. Blessings by galore! But most of all, God has blessed us with Thomas' life.
Again, I want to share my thanks from them and from me.
Keep the prayers flowing and may God bless each and every one of you.
My deepest thanks
Pat Carver
Thomas turned 26 yrs old this past November and today is doing so fantastic, it is hard to conceive. I guess the word is BELIEVE! He no longer has any cancer in his brain, just scarring where the tumors (7 or so) were, very few throughout torso (8 or so), any left that are still measurable, which is only 1, is drastically reduced. He will continue to have full body scans, MRI's, bone scans, etc and a treatment every 3 mos for the rest of his life. So every 3 months we gear up, hard not to prepare for the worst and so far, we are getting the best!! A year ago things really looked so dim and the outlook did not seem there would be any possibility he could defeat this. His doctors right along with us are in amazement.
Thomas' attitude has always been as if this was just a toothache, get on with it, get on with life. He once said, the Big Man obviously has a plan for me. Instead of filing for disability as his doctors tried to convince him to do, he is still working full time at Carmax and pushing for all his might. Unfortunately, he did loose his sales manager position this past week, but he immediately went right back to being a salesman since they had some of those positions open, Carmax had to cut back on managers nationwide due to our economy crisis. But, that's Thomas, started as a car salesman, climbed that ladder, but he can do it again. Success is the only word Thomas knows how to say, never defeat. But this fall is no comparison to what other events that could have taken place. He sold a car the first day, this past Monday, so he's back to his same ole self. He did say to let you all know if anyone needs a car, give him a call 865-254-2342 and he'll be the man you need to see.
He and Stacie just celebrated their 6th anniversary, May 6th, they have been together for a total of 10 years. I have pictures of their grade school dance, their senior prom and their wedding, if this tells you how long these 2 have been beside one another. They are also here on his blog. Julie Patrice just turned 4 in January and is growing like a weed. They are back living here in Tennessee from South Carolina and living right next door to me and Tom in a trailer we bought and set up. Blessings by galore! But most of all, God has blessed us with Thomas' life.
Again, I want to share my thanks from them and from me.
Keep the prayers flowing and may God bless each and every one of you.
My deepest thanks
Pat Carver
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Scan Results 5/5/09 (Miracle is the word)
Today, Tuesday May 5th, 2009 the scan results basically show NO MORE!. I want to thank God for this miracle! Thomas has 1 tumor that is still measurable, located in the chest near the esophagus. It was 3 mm when this bout began over a year ago, today it is 1.5 mm which once tumors get less than 1 mm the doctors consider them no longer a concern. All but one of the 15 or so melanoma tumors Thomas had throughout his torso and brain are considered non-existent.
He has gained back to 225 lbs, a growing boy, ha-ha! and is continuing to work full time. He will continue on his every 3 month cycle, scans and MRI's on Monday, results on Tuesday and his treatment the same afternoon for the rest of his life. What ever this miracle drug they are giving him along with God's healing power, Thomas is doing great.
We still continue to pray that his body will continue to accept this treatment and continue to keep his immune system a working army against this enemy. Thankfully his returning to Tennessee to be with family and getting care from his cancer doctors here, his attitude by far, and the most important, God's miracle power of healing, I'm sure has been Thomas' salvation.
I think Thomas understands that today is the beginning and tomorrow is not to be worried about. He will continue fighting and as long as his treatments keep his immune system boosted he will control this ugly beast. We also know that as long as God's love embraces him he has the most powerful source on his side.
I have told Thomas for years of what a success he will be and has become and again success is his! HURRAH FOR THOMAS!! As Thomas said, "The Big Man upstairs must have a plan for me!
May life be filled with continued success and may life have many blessings for you all.
Keep Thomas in your prayers and thank you all for being such a great support.
Next update - July 28th
Love
Pat
He has gained back to 225 lbs, a growing boy, ha-ha! and is continuing to work full time. He will continue on his every 3 month cycle, scans and MRI's on Monday, results on Tuesday and his treatment the same afternoon for the rest of his life. What ever this miracle drug they are giving him along with God's healing power, Thomas is doing great.
We still continue to pray that his body will continue to accept this treatment and continue to keep his immune system a working army against this enemy. Thankfully his returning to Tennessee to be with family and getting care from his cancer doctors here, his attitude by far, and the most important, God's miracle power of healing, I'm sure has been Thomas' salvation.
I think Thomas understands that today is the beginning and tomorrow is not to be worried about. He will continue fighting and as long as his treatments keep his immune system boosted he will control this ugly beast. We also know that as long as God's love embraces him he has the most powerful source on his side.
I have told Thomas for years of what a success he will be and has become and again success is his! HURRAH FOR THOMAS!! As Thomas said, "The Big Man upstairs must have a plan for me!
May life be filled with continued success and may life have many blessings for you all.
Keep Thomas in your prayers and thank you all for being such a great support.
Next update - July 28th
Love
Pat
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Update - Scan results - 2/10/09
Thomas had all his scans done on Monday 2.9.09 and we met with his cancer doctors Tuesday 2.10.09. HURRAH! GREAT NEWS! His results were amazing, better than 3 months ago. All signs of tumors are gone completely from the brain and all throughout his torso have continued to decrease, but one. The one tiny tumor in his chest on the rib cage has increased from .9 to .10, it is still so small that the doctors are not concerned. He had been experiencing some pain in that area in the last couple weeks, but they said it is from inflamation. Telling him to take Ibuprofen for the inflamation. He said he had been doing that and things seem to be getting better. All the other tumors are either gone or decreased. He has gained back his weight and is really looking and feeling great. Still has some lost agility in his legs from the surgery he had done on his spine last year, but all feeling has returned, and they told him to start doing some exercise, nothing over-exerting, bicycling, walking, swimming etc.
They gave him his treatment yesterday too, so he will continue on this schedule every 3 months. Scans on Monday, results and treatment on Tuesday every 3 months. We are so estatic and feel so blessed that this clinical trial treatment has done so much and the miracle of God has definitely been with Thomas.
We want to thank all who have kept Thomas and family in their prayers and we ask for continued prayers to keep him going down the path he is following. This road seems to be the perfect path for him to keep fighting and keep his cancer in control.
We will keep you posted on any future success or change.
Thanks
Pat
They gave him his treatment yesterday too, so he will continue on this schedule every 3 months. Scans on Monday, results and treatment on Tuesday every 3 months. We are so estatic and feel so blessed that this clinical trial treatment has done so much and the miracle of God has definitely been with Thomas.
We want to thank all who have kept Thomas and family in their prayers and we ask for continued prayers to keep him going down the path he is following. This road seems to be the perfect path for him to keep fighting and keep his cancer in control.
We will keep you posted on any future success or change.
Thanks
Pat
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Scan results 11/18/08 HURRAH!!
Thomas had new scans done Monday 11/17/08. He met with his doctors this a.m. 10/18/08 and we have great news! His brain is quite normal, has one teeny tiny tumor left, the tumors throughout his torso are all reduced even more than they were in August. HURRAH HURRAH HURRAH!!!! He was getting ready to take a treatment this afternoon when I talked with him by phone and from this point on he will be on a maintenance program, 1 treatment every 3 months as long as it continues to fight his melanoma and keep it under control or the body decides to reject the treatments. We know and have always known that Thomas may not be cured 100% at least that's what the docs say, but as long as his immune system can be kept up to the point of fighting this ugly beast and God is in Thomas's corner, then hopefully he'll be here for a long time. We thank God for all that he has blessed Thomas and all my family with! Now, if we can just get them financially stabled out and sell that monsterous liability called a house in South Carolina and get them on with living, then life will be GOOD!!!! No 25 year old needs to carry these burdens! By the way, his 26th birthday is coming up on Nov 21st, could not ask for a better present than the news we have received today. He's a walking miracle and one that we hope will continue to prove that cancer can be controled, a good attitude (boy does he have one), the good Lord and good docs might just be the controlers. We just pray that things continue to get better and he continues to stay strong.
Keep him in your prayers, they have done wonders.
Thanks and love to all
Pat
Keep him in your prayers, they have done wonders.
Thanks and love to all
Pat
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Friday, October 31, 2008
Oct 31st - Update - Thomas & Family - Happy Halloween
It's been since August and things are rolling right along with Thomas and his family. They are now in their trailer, things are still piled up, but, it's home for now. Trying to put a 2 story house of belongings into a trailer is not easy! We are working at getting them more storage area and getting more things done to the Trailer. It's so good to look across my field and see my young'ns are safe. Thomas is back to work basically at a full time status now. The main obstacle that is still giving them a hectic time is trying to sell the house in SC. Today's economy is really got things in a mess and it just won't sell. Thomas is in SC yesterday and today getting a few things done with the house, hoping to rent it. At least that way he won't have to continue making such a huge house payment for a house they don't even live in. It's become quite a financial burden but he is bound and determined to work it out. He's worked too long and too hard to get his credit history so good, so he's still paying for it after all this time. If you know of anyone who may be looking for a home in Simpsonville SC, it's really a great place, and can go for a great deal, please let us know.
As far as his cancer is concerned, he is going thru his 12 weeks off from treatments and seems to be doing great. He will return for more scans right before Thanksgiving and if all is still as well as it was from his last scans, they will put him on a maintenance program and he will have one treatment every 3 months to keep his immune system fighting hard. It is still, to me, a miracle from God that things have turned out so well. We just hope and pray that God's plan for Thomas is one that will keep him here for a long, long time. His hair has come back and he has a cute mohawk effect, right down the middle of his head, his hair is gray, I think it's cute. Stacie, being a licensed cosmetologist, can fix it, don't know if he will though.
Stacie is back to work, she's now cutting hair at the Envy Salon and Spa in Maryville. If anyone is looking for a great hair stylist she's top of her profession, she really makes me look good!! If you'd like to go and see her and let her spruce you up, she's at 1714 W Lamar Alexander Pkwy in Maryville, give her a call at the shop 983-1414 or call her cell phone 254-2317. She's just getting started back and really needs some clients and it's always good to make new friends and see old ones. If you are familiar with Maryville, go down 321 past Foothills Mall going towards Lenoir City, at the 1st red light where you would turn right to go to Denzo, turn left into the small business area and Envy is located in the small strip mall. It's real convenient and they are now taking walk-ins too. She can set her own schedule, so if you need a late evening she can accomodate you. The shop is actually open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Friday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, but she has use of the shop for later appointments, just give her a call.
They are trying so hard to keep their heads above water, as I said, the house payment in SC and now daily living expenses here in TN are difficult but they are bound and determined as usual to rebuild their lives back to where they used to be. Thomas sees and accepts nothing but success.
Keep them in your prayers, it's still the greatest healer and I know God is listening.
Thanks for listening to me and thanks for all the love and prayers to date.
Love to all
Pat
As far as his cancer is concerned, he is going thru his 12 weeks off from treatments and seems to be doing great. He will return for more scans right before Thanksgiving and if all is still as well as it was from his last scans, they will put him on a maintenance program and he will have one treatment every 3 months to keep his immune system fighting hard. It is still, to me, a miracle from God that things have turned out so well. We just hope and pray that God's plan for Thomas is one that will keep him here for a long, long time. His hair has come back and he has a cute mohawk effect, right down the middle of his head, his hair is gray, I think it's cute. Stacie, being a licensed cosmetologist, can fix it, don't know if he will though.
Stacie is back to work, she's now cutting hair at the Envy Salon and Spa in Maryville. If anyone is looking for a great hair stylist she's top of her profession, she really makes me look good!! If you'd like to go and see her and let her spruce you up, she's at 1714 W Lamar Alexander Pkwy in Maryville, give her a call at the shop 983-1414 or call her cell phone 254-2317. She's just getting started back and really needs some clients and it's always good to make new friends and see old ones. If you are familiar with Maryville, go down 321 past Foothills Mall going towards Lenoir City, at the 1st red light where you would turn right to go to Denzo, turn left into the small business area and Envy is located in the small strip mall. It's real convenient and they are now taking walk-ins too. She can set her own schedule, so if you need a late evening she can accomodate you. The shop is actually open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mon-Friday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, but she has use of the shop for later appointments, just give her a call.
They are trying so hard to keep their heads above water, as I said, the house payment in SC and now daily living expenses here in TN are difficult but they are bound and determined as usual to rebuild their lives back to where they used to be. Thomas sees and accepts nothing but success.
Keep them in your prayers, it's still the greatest healer and I know God is listening.
Thanks for listening to me and thanks for all the love and prayers to date.
Love to all
Pat
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Very good news!
Great news! Thomas had seven tumors in his brain. They are all gone but one and it is about 50% of it's original size.
The other tumors that were in his torso are either gone or 50% less. He had cancer in about a dozen places. Now, only in a couple of places. At least, I think that was what Pat said. We were both laughing and crying.... I'm not sure. I just know that they were all so HAPPY about what the Dr. had said. They told him he can drive, so he's going to buy himself a car!
They weren't going to do scans for another 12 weeks. Then they decided to do scans now. He just finished treatments last week. The stuff they have been giving him will continue to work for another three months. Maybe all the cancer will be gone, when the next scans are done!
We praise God and give him thanks for the miraculous news they received today!
Lillian
The other tumors that were in his torso are either gone or 50% less. He had cancer in about a dozen places. Now, only in a couple of places. At least, I think that was what Pat said. We were both laughing and crying.... I'm not sure. I just know that they were all so HAPPY about what the Dr. had said. They told him he can drive, so he's going to buy himself a car!
They weren't going to do scans for another 12 weeks. Then they decided to do scans now. He just finished treatments last week. The stuff they have been giving him will continue to work for another three months. Maybe all the cancer will be gone, when the next scans are done!
We praise God and give him thanks for the miraculous news they received today!
Lillian
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