about CaringBridge  |  home page  |  view guestbook  |  view photos  |  journal history  |  make a tribute donation

Click here to go back to the main page.

Tuesday, February 22, 2011 0:16 AM CST

A sweet friend of ours is just beginning her journey with cancer. So, I am remembering tonight. And, after remembering thought that it would be good to update.

Doug is in his second semester of college. Wow. It hasn't been easy for him to get here. It is very challenging for him now. It's not just the physical fight (where his brain doesn't work the way he needs it to, or where he cannot hear as well as he'd like, or speak clearly when he gets tired), but it is the emotional battles. From what I observe it is the emotional battles for my Douglas-- the brain cancer survivor trying to make it through a 2 year college program-- that are so heavy.

He likes his psychology class. He really likes learning about the brain and how it functions, and is learning about HIS brain and why it doesn't always function well. He's also learning about his sub-conscious and all the things locked away deep down......like the trauma of brain cancer treatment.

I don't think we know a whole lot about cancer survivors. It's relatively new. I imagine that several years from now that they will have a lot more extensive after care.

He's on 3 different meds for 3 different parts of the endocrine system. Radiation did a number on that body system.

Right now he's in the "Baking and Pastry Management" program at Valencia College. And, some of the latest victories have been him getting an A and 2 B's his first semester....., and the fact that he now has his driver's license and is driving 40 minutes to the West campus once a week. He also plays chauffeur for his little brother (a freshman in high school) Robby, and does errands for me. Oh and he now weighs over a 100 pounds.

And, one recent new fact is that he will be doing his second speech for this semester's speech class on medulloblastoma. I'm sure he'll learn some new things & also be able to speak with some authority on the subject.:)

We are now at over 6 1/2 years since diagnosis & over 5 1/2 since end of treatment. We need to make an appointment with his oncologist. We are past due to see him and to get an MRI, but we are not in a big hurry.

That's it for now.

Debbi for Doug and the family

Monday, June 28, 2010 2:18 PM CDT

Wow, so much has happened since my last update. Doug's senior year went really well once he got past that bump of the "encephalopathy" in the first semester.

He finished first semester in hospital/homebound classes, but it turned out to be a huge blessing. With H/H he got the tutoring that he needed and had great success.

So, we asked for him to stay with H/H part-time for second semester. This was a win/win scenario for Doug. He had 3 of his easier classes at his public high school (Timber Creek) and 3 of his harder classes with H/H. Doug did so well and was especially encouraged with his progress and ability to understand Algebra II in the right educational environment.

He received the "perseverance" award at his High School High Tech banquet.

And, on June 7, 2010 he walked across that stage (with a thousand other classmates)just in front of his twin brother and received his diploma! We screamed so loudly for them that I lost my voice.

It was a special time of celebration. We had a big open house party for him, Dustin, and 2 of their best friends the night before the ceremony. Their dads took a few moments to speak to honor each son. It was very special.

Milestones are milestones. But, milestones for kids who have had a life threatening illness and survived brain cancer are just....well, even so much bigger.

We celebrated another milestone at the same time that he graduated from high school. 5 years since end-of-treatment!

I must add this for any of you who are interested, are going through a similar thing, and are curious as to how he's doing specifically. Doug is only 5 feet tall, and we met with the office of disabilities at our community college last week to sign him up. The radiation WAS the bad boy in that it wrecked his endocrine system and stunted his growth. He is on meds to keep all these levels at normal: testosterone,growth hormone, and thyroid. These will be life long. His speech gets slightly slurred when he is tired. He has trouble hearing higher pitches and when there is a lot of background noise. He has acid reflux.

But, he plays basketball, football, ultimate frisbee, and baseball recreationally. The mountain trail that we carried him up the summer after his treatment he ran up last summer. And, some things seem to still be improving. He plans to start taking classes at VCC next year.

We are very thankful.

With a joyful heart and praises to God,

Debbi for all

Monday, October 26, 2009 8:36 EST

We're so thankful that Doug is improving each day. The neuropyschologist is confident that he will be back to himself cognitively after this week. But, he's missed so much school, and it would be impossible for him to make up the work in this state. So, we're waiting for him to get going in the hospital/homebound program for a short time. That means that he'll have the public school provide instruction for him via tutor/phone/computer until he can recover to 100This also gives him the option of easing back into school part-time if needed. This should lessen the anxiety for him.

Please pray that these transitions back and forth will be good & that we will have a positive experience with hospital/homebound this time like we did 4 years ago when he was in the program during his cancer treatment.

Also, please pray that he will continue to improve each day, and that we will continue to find solutions for the post-traumatic anxiety/adjustment issues.

Whew! Thanks.


Monday, October 19, 2009
Things with Doug's latest crisis are hard to understand and therefore hard to explain. Things are somewhat unknown & we're in a "wait and see" place.

The neuropyschologist thinks that the perfect storm of asthma meds, anxiety, and sleep deprivation produced a result of "encephalopathy" for Doug. She said it's her junk diagnosis for the brain not working right....meaning he's having a hard time thinking. Things feel "slow" for him, foggy, confusing at times. It's very hard for him to make decisions.

The good news is that he is sleeping again, and we are seeing some progress each day. Physically he's doing well. He's strong, eating well, and able to do things like play football with friends yesterday.

But, he's not himself. We're trying to help him be patient with himself, and not get too frustrated with his brain not working well. (It reminds us a little bit of when he was recovering from brain surgery.)The doctor thinks it will just take some time for him to recover.

The doctor said that school would be counter-productive to his recovery right now.

I'm sure that you can imagine our prayer requests here.

Debbi for all

Wednesday, October 14, 2009 8:33 PM CDT

It's been a long time since our last update. Stupidly I have waited until Doug is struggling instead of recording the great summer he had. And he did have a good summer of working in the cafe in Colorado part time, and he made some good money that he's socked away.

Our whole family had an incredible summer in Colorado. Rich moved back into our house in FL & took care of Harper.

This year has proved to me much harder than last year for Doug (& Dustin). School has been stressful & they haven't settled in well. They were both sick during the first few weeks. And, with all of the sickness going around they got sick again. This time they both had fevers off & on, and Doug got an anti-biotic for Bronchitis last week.

In the midst of dealing with his cough he was using his inhaler plus prednisone. We're not sure what set this all off. It was probably a combination of a ton of things including the meds, including a post-traumatic reaction. But, he started having severe panic attacks which have led to a constant state of anxiety which has led to nights upon nights with hardly any sleep at all.

We're working the problem, but it is scary for us all. Our wonderful pediatrician who has been with us through everything said to Doug today that she wonders what took him this long to be depressed like this after all that he's gone through. She told him that he is one of the strongest people she knows, that sometimes we ask the Lord why this too.....although we may never know, we do know that he is with us. She gave us a big hug, looked him in the eyes and said he is with you...don't forget that.

So, we encounter yet another part of the journey.... of long term affects, as cancer survivor. Boy, this sure has sent him scrambling to trust the Lord. We'll take it one day at a time.

In the short run we need to pray that he sleeps. In the long run we need to pray that we find wise solutions to help him.

In the meantime I am struggling with Chronic Lyme Disease, am on treatment & have hope that I will recover, but have to go through symptoms getting worse before they get better.

The family is pulling together again. Rich is spending the night to help tonight....to give his dad a break in case Doug is up again.

We are thankful for everyone who is praying for us so quickly again.

Debbi for all

Friday, May 8, 2009 9:30 AM CDT

May 4, 2009 was the anniversary of Doug's brain surgery. I think that he/we think of a life timetable as "before cancer" and "after cancer" and the surgery day was the day that the journey really began.

Those are pretty horrible memories, seeing him after the surgery. Rich was with us and I think it was pretty hard on him to see his brother that way. Hearing that the surgery was very successful, but also hearing that it was most likely a malignant tumor. Being in the ICU with Doug as he was trying to recover from the surgery and trying to figure out the right timing to tell him that he had cancer. Our whole family gathering around his bed to tell him. Meeting with Dr. Hajjar and him so casually explaining how Doug's treatment plan would be around fifty-some weeks and thinking that we heard him wrong and he meant fifty-some days. I was so overwhelmed and shocked that I started laughing.

Looking back I now understand that in Dr.Hajjar's world of pediatric oncology Doug's case was very straight forward and looked pretty good to him. It was the most common pediatric brain tumor. They found no evidence of cancer anywhere in the spine. They got all of the tumor out during surgery. And, he had a set protocol to follow and Doug had pretty good chances of surviving if all continued to go well.

For us it was like someone had just pushed us off of this planet that we were on and we fell down down down until we reached the planet of childhood cancer with a thud. Everything was foreign and frightening. We could hardly breathe let alone comprehend all that he was telling us about what the year ahead would look like. We didn't really want to know him because he was a pediatric oncologist (though he was warm, kind, and friendly). We didn't really want to know anyone else on that planet either right at first because we didn't want to be there.

But, we learned very fast about that planet and we quickly started wanting to meet the other people there or who had been there because we had so much in common. We came to love and appreciate all of Doug's medical caregivers. It became hard at times to relate to people living on our previous planet.

We discovered that the cancer planet was divided into continents and countries just like our previous planet. We lived on the coninent of pediatric cancer, in the country of brain tumors and the city of medulloblastoma. When someone from the other planet would tell us about Great Aunt Sally who had stomach cancer they thought that we could relate, but though it was on the same planet it was on a whole other continent.

Those who wanted to help most often flew in planes at 25,000 feet and dropped in supplies. The supplies were much appreciated because it's very hard to do the basic everyday things that are needed to survive when you live on planet cancer in the pediatric country. It often felt like tar on our feet moving through massives webs. Some days we could barely move at all. The airplane people were often kind and might try to ask us questions, but the noisy engine and the distance made it difficult. The ones who came down to visit were most often ones who had lived somewhere on that planet before. It is a rare person who's never lived on planet cancer especially in the country of pediatric cancer who comes and walks the paths and trudges through the jungles with us. That's why it was good to connect with the others who had no choice to leave just like us.

When we came back to this planet it took a very long time to adjust. My friend who lived overseas for many years said that it took her about 3 years to start feeling comfortable back in the USA. I think that we were on planet cancer for a year, had to visit regularly for another year and now it has taken us these last 3 years to adjust and start feeling more comfortable back on this planet. I had no idea that it would take this long and what that adjustment would be like. And, of course we hope that we never are forced back to planet cancer.

I could go on and on. But I'll stop here. These are my thoughts on the event of his 5th anniversary of brain surgery.

Debbi for all

Monday, March 23, 2009 7:31 AM CDT

March 20. 2009

23 years ago today Nick asked me to marry him. Today he's in Syracuse where we were living at that time. I think I'll ask him to visit the little park on the campus of Syracuse University where he proposed. 23 years and 4 growing/grown up sons later here we are. The boys were all born there and they have a strong affinity to S.U. They would like them to win the NCAA tourney, but I don't think anyone picked them to win in the brackets.:)

Thankfully Doug has been healthy again and found out that his growth hormone levels have gone up again. So the nightly injections are working. He has been enjoying his P.E. class this semester and is thankful for the added endurance and energy that he has found since being on the HGH.

Doug did have an incident with some symptoms of PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) in January when he had a fever and headache with a virus. That was a trigger for a lot of anxiety and as we began looking into it we found that it's not uncommon for childhood cancer survivors to experience something like that. The neurophscologist will be helping Doug develop coping skills for any future incidences.

Nick and I were able to get away for a few days in January. We weren't too far away, but it was phenomenal that we were able to leave the boys totally by themselves. Nick also had his parathyroid surgery in January that went well and hopefully will be totally successful.


Doug and Dustin did very well again on their progress reports mid semester. Dustin is playing in the basketball league again. Doug and Dustin received some very encouraging notes from their good girl friends on Valentine's day.

Also in February we celebrated Harper's 5th birthday. We had a really special time as a family reminiscing about the blessings of Harper. He is such an intrical part of all of our stories/journey these past 5 years. He sure did enjoy the special attention...including a small cake with dog biscuits complete with candles. You should see the video!

A couple of weeks ago Doug and our family had some very special visitors~ Hannah and her mom from Arizona. We had connected with Hannah and family not long after Doug finished treatment. We found out that Hannah, who is the same age as Doug, had been diagnosed with and treated for Medulloblastoma at almost the exact same time as Doug. What a blessing to be able to connect with someone with so many similarities!


Robby is in full swing with his 2 baseball teams and doing really well after coming off of a 3 week injury...he fractured his right hand middle finger. Not good for the throwing hand. He also had a little mishap at Youth Group last Sunday and ended up with a slight concussion! He's enjoying the Youth Group Tuesday night Bible Study and their SV group is up to 25 Middle School Boys.

Doug and Dustin have been enjoying watching Robby's games when they can get there. We all enjoy it when Rich comes over to the house and hangs out with us. We've also been able to screen some movies with him these last few months. We were the only ones in the theater.

I have been enjoying catching up with people on FaceBook. Doug and Dustin love FaceBook also. We have some home improvement projects planned for Spring Break, but that's it. We're hoping that the boy's Aunt Nancy and family will be stopping by Easter weekend on their way to a cruise.

That's it for now,

Debbi

Wednesday, January 28, 2009 5:47 PM CST

It's been 6 weeks since our last update:

We had a really wonderful Christmas and Christmas break for the boys. It was so nice to have them home and be relaxed and to spend time together as a family. It was so good that they didn't have to think about homework or exams. They all needed the break.

My mom was here until after Christmas and Rich had moved back home, and did mostly all of our traditions. The boys were a bit bummed at how warm Christmas was this year and were wishing that they were one of those places up north where they got a lot of snow this year.

We all had New Year's Eve parties to go to, and a few days after that we went to DeLeon Springs and went canoeing, played "Urban Horseshoes", and made our own pancakes before we asked the boys to make some goals for the coming year.


Doug and Dustin made it through their mid term exams and then they went to their 3rd Fast Break conference and once again came back very inspired, very happy, and very very tired. Then they got sick.

It's only been 6 weeks since Doug was sick before and he's on an anti-biotic again. He's really struggling with this illness. Plus, it came during the first week of 2 new semester classes starting. So, he's still not feeling well and is fatigued and is trying to make up and keep up with school. Not a great start. He needs prayer. This situation is difficult for anyone, but a bit more difficult for Doug.

Great news: He got his grades today and got a 3.66 GPA for the semester. Congratulations Doug! With the encouragement he's gotten from the environment at Timber Creek he has really made progress. He even got 100% in Geometry for the semester!

Dustin did much better at TC too. Plus, he continued to enjoy his basketball league and is probably going to start playing again soon.

Robby had a nice break from baseball and is starting back up again. He made the Timber Creek High School Feeder Team/Prep team again this Spring as a 7th grader (which was one of his goals) and is going to play on a Juniors' Little League team...so once again...2 teams this season.
He also navigated his first high school honor's class mid term exam in Algebra (as a 7th grader) and reached his academic goals as well.

Rich just moved out of the house again today. He's renting a room in a really nice house. His roomate owns the house, and it's about 20 minutes from us and from work. He's still doing really well managing at Regal and continues to enjoy it. We've seen numerous movies this last 6 weeks.

Nick's parathyroid surgery went well. He's still sore, but recovering nicely.

Doug's still doing a great job of handling giving himself the HGH injections every night.

That's all for now,

Debbi

Tuesday, December 9, 2008 4:56 PM CST

DOUG
Doug had his check up with Dr.Yang, the endocrinologist, and his blood test results showed that his growth hormone levels are going up....not quite normal range yet, but much better. That's why he's had more energy. Yeah! He upped his dose a little and we'll see him in 3 months.

Today Doug went to the doctor because he's not feeling well. But, it's just a virus and maybe a sinus infection. The point here is that he hasn't been to the doctor for being sick in a very long time. I can't remember the last time.....a very wonderful thing.

Another thing that I really ought to report is that Doug just got all A's on his progress report for the second 9 weeks. He was just saying how much he loves his school again today. What an answer to prayer. Last year at this time he was miserable.

ROBBY
Robby just finished his baseball season playing for the high school prep team. He had 2 games last week and practice every other night. Then they started their end of the year tournament Friday night and ended late Sunday night. They played 6 games over the weekend and got runner up out of 14 area teams....with a nice big trophy and a silver medal to show for it. It was very fun, and a bit tiring ( tiring especially for his mom and dad...lol)

We've been dealing with some unusual cold here lately. I guess it wouldn't be too much of a factor except for the fact that we've been still sitting outside watching baseball. It's been crazy cold at times....especially when our bodies have adjusted to the normal FL temps.

Rich has moved back in since his house sitting job ended a bit sooner than he had hoped. He's hoping to find another good situation so that he can live elsewhere after the holidays.

Rich treated his Grandma Baldwin to 3 movies when she was here for 2 weeks....Quantam of Solace, The Boy in the Striped Pajamas, and Australia. Grandma hadn't seen a movie since she had been in FL the last time. lol

Nick and I are now having our share of health things to deal with....I think mine are continuing to be related to fibromyaligia. His are related to the fact that he only has one kidney. And, he's having parathyoid surgery in January.

FAMILY
Next weekend we're going to get to see the Packers play in person for the first time as a family. The tickets were a surprise for Christmas. The boys are disappointed in their record this year, but we're hoping that won't matter when they finally get to see their team play.

That's it for now.

Wednesday, November 26, 2008 8:13 AM CST

Doug has been on HGH now for over a month and has his first check up next week. So, we'll see what Dr. Yang says, but Doug is happy because he feels like at least he has had more energy. His friends have commented on it too. Doug never complains and just gives himself the shot every night.

Funny story: during the first week that he stated taking the HGH he had taken the supplies with him on the weekend because he and his friends usually stay out late and he's supposed to take it at 9pm every night. So, he has this official carrying case and a back pack to keep it in. They decided to leave the house that they were hanging out in and start walking in our neighborhood @ 11:30pm. They got stopped by the police and questioned as to their reason for being out in the group at that time. Then, the police asked to see what was in Doug's back pack (since he was the only one carrying anything) Fortunately he had his prescription with his supplies! This is extra funny if you know Doug well.

He is so happy at Timber Creek this year. It has turned out to be such a better school for him. We are so thankful for his teachers and for Doug and Dustin's great group of friends. They continue to be very involved in Student Venture.

Dustin is happy because he was just able to join a basketball league. He was really missing playing. He has enjoyed his team sports class at school and met some kids who asked him to join their team.

Robby (7th gr) is nearing the end of his Fall Baseball season and playing on 2 Wolf teams. He's done a great job of handling it plus his homework. Overall, he had a great season and adjusted to the big field. One of his favorite fun things to do this Fall has been to attend the Timber Creek Football games. It's a very fun environment for him to hang out with a lot of friends. He turned 13 Oct. 20!

Rich is still working hard at the theater and loving living on his own for awhile. He's staying about 15 minutes from us and stops in for dinner and to watch The Packers or The Lakers on t.v. Harper (our dog) acts like it's Christmas every time Rich steps foot back in the house.

We're getting ready for Thanksgiving tomorrow and we have a first. My mom is here. She turned 80 in May and we are very thankful that she can still travel and that she can be with us for the holidays.

We are very thankful that Doug is doing well despite dealing with his life long side effects. We're thankful that we're all going to be together to celebrate. We're thankful that the rest of us are relatively healthy, and that our stress and struggles are relatively less than they have been in the past several years. ( During the holidays, I always think more of our friends who have lost their loved ones and grieve again with them.)We're thankful that Doug is with us. We're thankful that God is with us and has been with us always no matter how we felt or what we thought or did.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Thursday, October 9, 2008 7:33 PM CDT

Monday. October 13, 2008
Quick add on update:
The results from Doug's MRI's again are that they are all clear! His next MRI will be a year from now. He's supposed to be getting the growth hormone meds tomorrow. We receive a free 2 month supply from the company while our insurance considers authorization. Please pray with us that they will authorize the growth hormone for Doug quickly and the first time and that we won't have to go through an appeal. The evidence that Doug needs GH is very clear and not a borderline case, but the word is that insurance comapnies can be difficult for no reason at times. We are thankful for his doctors...his endocrinologist, Dr. Yang, and his staff are great......and always for Dr. Hajjar, his oncologist. He always gives Doug a big hug and is so genuinely happy for Doug's progress and is always encouraging and kind.

October 9, 2008
Doug's friend, Zack, is still in the hospital and has not spoken yet, but they are in the process of moving him to a rehab hospital. He needs to get over an infection in his lungs, first. It is quite the journey.

His website is www.caringbridge.org/visit/zackmcleod

Update on Doug:
We've found out that Doug is very deficient in growth hormone. However, now that it's "safer" to give him growth hormone, it's too late to effect his height. However, as I understand it, an adult male needs gh testosterone to build muscle mass. So, Doug is encouraged that by getting gh that he'll finally be able to put on some muscle and gain some weight. GH is given through a shot......so Doug will have to learn to give himself the meds...the doctor thinks...for the rest of his life. We are in the process of getting authorization from our insurance and getting it set up. I guess it can be quite the process.

Doug was very happy to get his progress report for half way through the first quin and he got all A's. He's had the highest grade in his class for his first 2 geometry tests, so he's off to a great start and still likes Timber Creek.

Doug and Dustin had a first this Fall when they got to stay home for the weekend by themselves while we went to Daytona for a baseball tournament with one of Rob's teams. We had fun getting away for a short while, Rob had fun with his baseball buddies, and D & D had fun hanging out.

We're going to Dr. Hajjar tomorrow and if all goes well....we'll get the results of Doug's MRI's...then Doug won't have to go back for a whole year.

Wednesday, September 10, 2008 7:40 PM CDT

AN URGENT MESSAGE FROM DOUG

Last Friday a friend of mine who lives in Boston had an accident playing football and was air lifted to the hospital for emergency brain surgery to stop the bleeding. He is still in a coma. His name is Zack McLeod and he's 17.

Will you please pray for Zack like you have prayed for me?


DECOLA UPDATE
Doug and Dustin love Timber Creek! This is the 4th week of school already and it has been so good for the whole family for them to be going to TC. They like their teachers and get to hang out with their good friends at lunch, and are more involved with Student Venture. Very exciting news is that Doug and Dustin got baptized 2 weekends ago!!!! It was wonderful. They are continuing with their SV Bible Study this year.

Doug and Dustin are both very concerned for their friend, Zack and have been praying hard and calling friends every day to check on him. Zack was such a great friend to Doug right after he got done with his chemo treatment and went out to Colorado. Zack and some other buddies pushed Doug around in a wheel chair because he was too weak to walk very far.

Robby is doing great, too, in 7th grade. He has Algebra homework every night, but getting home at 1:50pm gives him extra time before his baseball practices. He is now on 2 baseball teams. He had already signed up to play with a travel team and then the opportunity to try out for the high school feeder team came up and he made it. So, he is now playing for Timber Creek as a 7th grader. Pretty cool. A big highlight of this week was that he had to get his hair cut short for the new team. He's also starting SV again at the middle school on Friday afternoons and Nick is doing a little chapel for his baseball team before the games on Sundays.

Rich is taking the opportunity to move out of our house for awhile. He made the decision not to move to Tallahassee and got yet another promotion at the movie theater here in Orlando. But, he is now going to be house/dog sitting for at least 3 months about 10 miles from home.

Nick and I are working, going to baseball games, transporting Doug and Dustin around, and the ususal. Nick's mom came to visit last weekend and got to join us in all of our activities.

None of us are very happy about Brett Favre playing for another team. Our hero has fallen off of his pedestal. But, we enjoyed the Packers' first game win this week!

We are watching the Red Sox closely and awaiting the play offs.

Zack's accident and brain surgery has brought up a lot of thoughts and feelings for us all. We are all praying, and also remembering what things were like for us, for Doug, after surgery, and the journey that he had. We know that Zack will have his own journey ahead of him. It's hard for them to think of their friend in pain.

PLEASE PRAY FOR ZACK!

Thanks,

The DeCola's

Tuesday, August 19, 2008 8:44 PM CDT

ALL STARS
Doug and Dustin spent July volunteering at their brother's Little League All Star tourney, working hard at their online class, and hanging out with their friends.

Robby practiced hard for All-Stars. The tourney was the tale of rain....lots of rain delay practices and games. The team played well, got to the Semi-Finals, and lost to the winning team in a very close game. Robby ended his Little League career hitting a 3 run home run to give his team the lead in the game.....a great personal finish for him...and a great memory.

Doug was video taping Robby and got the shot of the home run while yelling for his brother in the background. Doug and Dustin were very supportive of their little brother. Nick and I were volunteering at the tourney almost every day also. I kept score and he did field work besides coaching.

MOVIES
All of us saw a lot of movies this summer. Some favorites were Get Smart and The Dark Knight. The boys also liked Iron Man and The Hulk.

BOSTON MEMORIES
After All Stars was over we scrambled to put together a little vacation that turned out to be wonderful for all of us. Rich stayed home and worked and enjoyed having the house all to himself for 11 days.

We took a road trip up to the Northeast, staying with dear friends along the way in NC, then Maryland, Amherst, MA, Boston, and back through in Fairfax, VA (D.C.) The goal was to make it to a Red Sox game. We spent rich time with the Rollins and the Baglows and then stayed with our friend, Walt, who is the Red Sox chaplain, in Boston. Walt helped us navigate the ticket possibilities and we were blessed to get into the game and have great seats. We will never forget it.......we had so much fun....beautiful weather...Jason Bay's first game...and they won in the 12th inning. Nothing like a game in Fenway! Walt was also gracious to come with us on the Freedom Trail in downtown Boston. We benefitted from his knowledge of shortcuts and experienced a lot in a day. What an awesome city! We also took pictures of Walt's 2 World Series rings this time, and enjoyed time relaxing at his house and in his pool.

The boys had a lot of adventures. We went to the Beach in Delaware with the Rollins, Brooke taught us how to shoot and we all used his shotguns to shoot at targets in the woods by their home, and as usual we played family games together and laughed a lot in the short time. We went hiking and swam in a cool and clean lake with the Baglows, but most of all just enjoyed spending time with them...playing games...and laughing. We also drove through 11 states. While driving through NYC we actually could see the Empire State Building and The Statue of Liberty off in the distance. We also spent a short time with our friends the Rosenbergs on the way home. That was delightful too.

One of my favorite memories was riding the train out of Boston after the game with all of the happy Red Sox fans...after a very long day and night...and seeing the happy looks on the boys' faces.

A NEW SCHOOL YEAR
They only had 2 weeks until school started after we returned home, so they weren't thilled about that. But, they made it through and all had great first days of school. Doug and Dustin are now at Timber Creek ( 4500 student public school that Rich graduated from) and Rob is in his second year of middle school in 7th grade.

Today was supposed to be their 2nd day, but school was cancelled for Tropical Storm Fay which turned out to be nothing for our area...just rain.

OLYMPICS
Of course we've been watching the Olympics in Beijing and enjoying them together and of course watched Michael Phelps swim for 8 gold medals and make history just like the rest of our country.

Besides these highlights in July and August, a few days ago Rich turned 20!

We are hopeful that this year will be less of a struggle and more fun in school for Doug (and Dustin). It was very nice for them be at the same school as their best friends.

A LOOK BACK
As we look back at our journey with Doug I realize now more than ever what a fog we were in during his cancer treatment and the year after. Started coming out of it a bit last year, but still were adjusting, and life feels a bit more clear for me now. BTW Doug started physical therapy again. HE was finally ready for it. I hope he can keep it up during the Fall term.

Debbi for all

Thursday, June 19, 2008 9:56 PM CDT

The boys are very glad to be into the summer months.We've done a couple of really fun things as a family in the last month. We went to Sea World's new water park, Aquatica, and we went to Universal/Islands of Adventure.

Doug and Dustin are working on the second semester of an online Science class every morning. They are all registered and ready to be Juniors at the public high school, same one Rich graduated from, Timber Creek, next year. Doug is really glad that his school start time will be 9:30am! He hated early mornings.

Dustin's been skateboarding more again and both of them have been having fun hanging out with their friends. I think they've been to at least 3 parties since school's been out. We've all seen lots of movies....lastest one "The Hulk".

Robby made the All-Star team for the 4th year in a row and has started practice every day with games beginning June 28. Nick is an assistant coach with the team. Our little league is hosting the tournament so we'll be busy helping out when Rob's team isn't playing.

I've been garage saling with friends a lot lately. We enjoy getting the bargains, but my mission has been to help supply Rich's apartment for next year. Rich continues to work hard with long hours at the theater. He's helped several of his college friends to get jobs there for the summer.

Doug is having a nice long break from anything medical...no doctors, hospitals, MRI's for awhile. He's just not made any progress with his weight etc.

I posted some pictures that Doug has taken. They're good. He enjoys making videos and taking pictures. He and Dustin just posted a funny video on their facebook.

All for now,

Debbi

Sunday, May 18, 2008 11:27 PM CDT

Wow it's been awhile since we've updated again.

The highlight of Doug's weeks continues to be Bible Study with his buddies and then hanging out at the Trotter's home. The end of April we attended Relay for Life for the 3rd year and Doug walked the survivor lap again. That was significant and memorable. This year his brothers paid to put him in the fake jail, too.

We had a fun short visit with Doug's Uncle Garrett and Aunt Nancy. They were on their way to a cruise.

Grandma Baldwin came and we had a surprise party for her 80th birthday...we think it was the first birthday party that she's ever had. The boys actual kept the secret for several days and she was very surprised.

Rich has been done with his first year of college for a few weeks now and is working constantly at the theater. Word has traveled and he seems to be supplying everyone we know with free tickets.

Dustin has adopted Rich's love for the L.A. Lakers and the 2 of them have been crazy watching all of the play-off games that they can. He has also been thrilled to be driving a lot lately....since he finally got his driver's permit.

A few weeks ago all of us (minus Rich) went with some Little League friends on a bus to St.Petersburg to see the Red Sox play!! It was really fun, but would have been better if the Sox had won. We're pretty sure there were many more Red Sox fans there than Rays fans.

Doug and Dustin joined the Leadership team for Student Venture and were busy for a few weeks helping out at
meetings.

The boys were very sweet to me for Mother's Day as usual. This year we went out to breakfast and then to the beach. They got me some very thoughtful gifts and cards.

This Saturday Robby played his last regular season Little League game (last game for Nick to coach, too). We've been involved with LL for 7 years now. Doug and Dustin played when they were Rob's age, too. Robby had a fairy tale ending to his season by hitting 2 over the fence home runs in a row his last 2 "at bats"!!! He said that it felt like he was on top of the world (the hitter's ultimate). His team ended up with a 13-3 record. It was a fun season.

Now, it's exam time. D & D have 1 exam every day this next week! I cannot tell you how happy they will be by the end of next Friday! I'll be praying a lot for them this week.

I've been working quite a bit finishing up this Spring's applications. But, at least my office is our beautiful back porch and it was beautiful weather until just recently when it hit the 90's. Now, I've lost my "office" to the heat.

All for now,

Debbi for all

Wednesday, April 2, 2008 6:44 PM CDT

IT'S SPRING BREAK!!!!!

Wow, the boys are all so happy and relieved....me too. What have we been doing? No doctor's appointments this week!!!!!

We went to the beach as a family.....that's a miracle to get us all together these days....and it was actually fun, a gorgeous day.
Funny story: AFter the boys and their dad had boogie boarded the boys decided that was it...they wanted to go home now, but Nick and I wanted to take a walk and then relax a little first. When we got back from our walk the 4 of them had packed everything up and were leaving. It was really funny. They said that they had voted and the majority wins. We said that we didn't realize that the family had become a democracy...it's always been a benevolent dictatorship. So, they went to the car and waited while we relaxed for awhile! Times are changin.

Robby went surfing with his friend Brandon and is gone for a few days at their beach house. Nick, the twins and I went golfing today. That's a rare occasion and was funny and fun.

Dusty is finally getting his driver's permit tomorrow. He finally took the time to study and take the test. The twins are having their birthday celebration early this weekend. It will include a free movie for them and their friends from big bro, Rich, plus other various activities.

By the way, Rich interviewed and got a management position at work, Regal Cinemas! We're really proud of him...getting a position like that at age 19. He's been working full-time lately while still taking 5 classes at college. He has to wear suits to work now!

BTW, DOUG DROVE ALL THE WAY TO COCOA BEACH THIS WEEK. He's getting better at driving lately.

Robby's (Nick's the coach) baseball team is 7-1 so far. We've been having fun with the team.Little League is a great community here. We'll be going on a bus to see a Red Sox Spring training game in a few weeks.

And, yes, our whole family has been mourning the retirement of Brett Favre. Packers games will never be the same again.

Doug's MRI's were all clear. We go back in August for another MRI and then we go to a time interval of 1 MRI per year. His oncologist was very happy for him that his balance has completely been restored (something that often does not occur w/medullo patients). We're going to get a second opinion on the endocrinologist's opinion that Doug will not grow anymore. He's 5 feet tall, and his growth was interrupted by radiation. He's still being encouraged toward better nutrition. We're looking into assistive technology to help Doug with schoolwork (specifically with visual processing).

APRIL 10TH DOUG AND DUSTIN WILL BE 18!!!!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY (early), DOUG AND DUSTIN!

Enough for now,

Debbi for all

Monday, February 4, 2008 1:37 AM CST

Yes, I am really up this late after typing a paper for Doug after the Superbowl.

The last few weeks I've spent a lot of time at doctor appointments again and they will continue the next few weeks. Doug's 6 month appointments are due at several of his specialists. They all say that he needs to try to eat better and gain weight which frankly he gets sick of hearing, but it is true. But, his fine motor skills have improved and he is doing better than many others in this area. But, he had his testing by the neuropsychologist and found out why school is so hard for him. The cancer treatment left him very weak in visual processing among other things. No wonder he gets so mentally tired. So, he and Dustin still need a lot of prayer for school.

Also, Doug has been sick...a bronchitis kind of thing. He's on anti-biotics and seems to gradually be getting better, but has missed a lot of school. He's also been struggling with TMJ pain and his ears are so clogged that his hearing has been more impaired.

All of this put together with the fact that the Packers lost in the play-offs have made it a bit depressing around here at times.

A couple of bright spots for Doug have been riding his electric scooter that we finally got fixed, and attending his second Fastbreak conference at the beach. (It was freezing that weekend, though.)

We've enjoyed going to Dustin's varsity basketball games. It was fun to see him play a lot the other day and get 10 points. He really likes playing. He's one of their best shooters. They did better this year and won their small school conference.

Rich is taking a full load of classes this semester and working a lot more at the movie theater too. He just got a promotion with more responsibility and even better (for us) more passes! We are thoroughly enjoying this free movie thing.

Robby got straight A's again this quarter. He was awarded Pop Warner "scholar athlete" and will be attending the regional banquet to honor him and to receive the award. I guess it's a big deal and is held at a fancy place of course by Disney. Nick is coaching his major league baseball team again this year. They just had the draft and their first practice this weekend. Seems like yesterday that he was the youngest one on the team and now he's one of the oldest. He and his friends have been riding their rip sticks a lot since Christmas. It seems like he's hungry all the time these days.

Nick just found out that his blood pressure is high. He's trying to adjust to meds for that and is bummed that it's interfering with his running.

I haven't been feeling well since after Christmas either...even more than usual. The stress around here doesn't help anything. We're trying to look for solutions to relieve the stress of Doug and Dustin's school struggles.

The weather has been beautiful lately and these are the days that I am even more thankful for living in Florida.

I think that I will try to keep this journal going at least until Doug is declared "cancer free" and that will be a few months after he turns 20. That's the Spring of 2010 that hopefully he'll graduate from high school, too. I have plans of printing this all out and having it bound some day. That would be 6 years of journaling.

That's all for now. If anyone is still reading this, please let us know.

Debbi for all

Tuesday, January 8, 2008 9:04 AM CST

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!

We had a great Christmas! It was pretty much our usual traditions at home. We ate late on Christmas Eve because Rich was working until 8pm. The boys kept thanking me for a great Christmas. I guess all that work does pay off and they CAN actually be grateful as teenagers.

I hate to even mention it, but Doug and Dustin did get past their exams, but it was horribly stressful for all. And that's an understatement. So, pulling off a good Christmas was even more sweet.

They all had a nice break, except Doug and Dustin still had to work on their online class. And, Rob had some homework hanging over his head.

Rich went to the Campus Crusade Atlanta Christmas Conference and said it was the most fun that he's had in a long time.(They were there over New Year's) He drove 3 friends in his car and they had a flat tire on the way up, but handled it very well and were on their way. He was very inspired by being at the conference and being with the FSU Cru and it also spurred him on to sign a contract to live with his buddies in Tallahassee next Fall whether he atends FSU or the Community College or whatever. Acutally he's the one that was the most enthusiastic about starting classes yesterday at VCC.

Doug and Dustin practically lived at Boyd's house at times and they had a great time New Year's Eve doing all kinds of crazy things. We love you, Trotters...you make our twins happy!!!

Robby also spent the night at his normal hang out of Fairway Point (Brandon and Corbin's neighborhood) New Year's Eve. Everyone had lots of fireworks.

So, Mom and Dad actually had the night to themselves which is a rare occasion....however, we did go to a party. But, we were so tired we almost wished we'd stayed home. Man, are we getting old?

We had spent the Weekend and Monday getting up every morning @ 5am to take Robby and friends to play in a baseball tournament at Disney's WideWorld of Sports Complex across town. It was fun, but we felt like we lived 2 days in each day. One of the dads said it was like groundhog day (the movie).

Doug and Dustin need prayer. School is so difficult for them. I think they just feel so beaten down. And, they did not have a long enough break for them to feel all the way recooperated. They need encouragement.

That's it for now,

Debbi

Sunday, December 9, 2007 9:26 PM CST

What's been going on lately???

Doug's been working really, really hard on Geometry and every other subject.

Doug and Dustin and friends went to see their friend, Boyd, and his family in a local production of the Nutcracker. They had a great time seeing Boyd as "Fritz".

Dustin's basketball season is underway. He made 2 three pointers last week when he got in the game.

We've had a great time as a family watching the Packers play a few times at a local sports bar:) GO PACK GO!

Robby got to be an "extra" in the Disney Christmas Parade with his friend Braden and family.

Nick got to see New Orleans for the first time...was there for a 4 day conference.

Rich has taken me or given me tickets for 2 wonderful movies (Enchanted and August Rush)!

Florida has turned into a festival of Christmas lights. Ya know, it's not cold enough here to make people limit their light productions. They go wild!

Tis the season to pray very hard for Doug and Dustin to trust God with and pass all of their semester exams (and not make themselves sick and the rest of us miserable with the stress).
_______________________________________
What's extraordinary about this update is that it's so ordinary. Doug's still in remission and is progressing...still dealing with a good deal of everyday challenges, but it's been 2 1/2 years since end-of-treatment.

Someone recently asked me to recall one of my best Christmas memories. The only one I could think of was 2004 when Doug was in the middle of treatment and was very sick. There was a chance that he'd end up in the hospital that Christmas. It was the best present of all just to have him home with us that year. Somehow it seemed magical...Christ felt very present with us!

MERRY CHRISTMAS SEASON EVERYONE,

Debbi for all

Wednesday, November 21, 2007 12:00am EST

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Today was the perfect Florida day. Nick and I took a walk and it was the most gorgeous, perfect, weather ever...blue sky, puffy white clouds, sun, not too hot, not a bit cool.


We are looking forward to a low key day tomorrow of traditions. My brother will be with us. The boys will play football in a turkey bowl in the park. I'll do all the cooking. But, we have a family treat....the Packers are playing on Thanksgiving this year. And, they've been playing well. (Good thing my brother's a big Packer fan too) We'll be really happy to watch the game together. (Too bad Rich has to work at the movie theater later in the day)

Nick and I saw a good movie last night~ "Dan In Real Life". It's a rare thing to go to a movie in the theater and really like it these days. Rich can get us tickets for free!!!

I'm very happy that Doug seems to have gotten over his cold. Of course I had to catch it too, but Zicam has come to all of our rescue.

Rich is happy to have friends home for the holiday. They all (including Doug and Dustin) played Ultimate Frisbee in the park today.

School has been such a bear for Doug and Dustin I am really hoping that they can relax and enjoy these few days off. They didn't get off until today at noon. Robby is making the most of his whole week off! In between being with friends constantly he managed to spend 4 hours with me today making apple pies. What a trooper.

Saw a St. Jude's ad at the theater last night. That really hits home. They said to be thankful for your healthy kids. That really hits home, too. We are very thankful this year for our healthy kids!!!!!!!!

I am also thinking a lot of our dear friends who are dealing with grief this whole holiday season. Our grief continues too...grief for friends, grief of the pain in the past, and ongoing grief for losses and pain caused by the cancer and the treatment's side effects, all kinds of grief in all kinds of shapes and sizes.

Still trying to learn to integrate joy and grief.


Still do have a lot to thank God for.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Thursday, November 8, 2007 9:32 PM CST

I just got back from 10 days in Indiana. My mom had another knee replacement and is recovering nicely. I got to spend a few days with my dear friend and sorority sister, Kim, and that will be a highlight for a long time to come.

While I was away Nick did a great job of holding the fort down. He had a heavy dose of playing "taxi service" to the boys. He was very gracious to support me taking care of my mom by not calling me too often with questions. Of course I'd tried to prepare them well before I left. I brought them back a souvenier from an antique shop near South Bend....a 1973 commemorative soda bottle of Notre Dame's National Championship year. They all still love ND even though it's a tough year.

By the way,the boys were all really excited about the Red Sox World Series win!! They love the Sox and were really into the games.

One big thing that I really regret missing when I was gone was Doug's golf team banquet. Doug got a special award......."The Coach's Achievement" award. It's the only one that the coach gave out and was very special for Doug!!!

Dustin's started basketball practice and is loving it. Robby has one last football game this weekend...a "bowl game" post-season.Oh yeah, he also celebrated his 12th birthday and had a great time with his best friends at his party. Rob also got all A's on his first report card in Middle School. He's worked very hard.

Today,although we had a happy reunion as a family, it was also sad when Nick found out that his grandfather who was 96 years old,just died.

Doug is fighting off a virus and it makes his hard work with school work even harder. He just can't afford to get badly sick. He's still under weight even though his energy level has increased a lot. He's done very well this year being able to play golf AND take a personal fitness class at school.

That's it for now.

Debbi for all

Sunday, October 14, 2007 9:04EST

DOUG had his last golf match this week. He played every match and had a great time playing on the team. On average he was the number 3 player. His coaches were the best, very encouraging. But, he's glad that he has a break now. His last match he got to play against/with his friend, Ryan, who plays for another private school. That was fun.

Doug had his MRI's and we still haven't called to find out the results. Guess we're not too worried. Since we haven't heard, we assume they're still all clear. One really hard thing is that the endocrinologist thinks that Doug is done growing. The treatment affected his growth more than they thought it would, and he's too old to get any growth hormones.

Doug and Dustin have been struggling a lot with their academic schedule this year...tough classes for them. Dustin is excited that he gets to play the drums in their praise band again. They're back in the swing of their Student Venture Bible Study.

ROBBY has 2 more football games in his regular season. He's been playing safety. He ended up only missing one game because of his knee injury. He's really enjoying football and it's been fun to watch, but it sure makes for a long Saturday for Mom and Dad. He's doing great in school, but he has a lot of homework and has a very tight schedule with football practice 3 times a week, games on Saturdays AND AAU baseball on many Sundays. Don't forget Fantasy Football, too. lol He's also been going to a Student Venture Bible Study on Friday afternoons with his buddies.

The Fall's been busy with the kids' activities, and Nick and I usually like to go the the highschool football games on Friday nights for fun. We like to see Rich's teammates from last year and enjoy sitting with the parents. It's a fun community event. Rob gets in free with his Wolves jersey on and he and his friends run around like crazy the whole game. Rich has caught a few games from the sidelines with other graduated players.

That's all for now.
NEW PICTURES ARE POSTED FINALLY!

P.S. I have to report a most wonderful, wonderful thing that has happened. Doug's friend David who was 4 years old died a little over 2 years ago now...well, his parents, Sarah and Jerry, and sister Alexa now have a new baby boy...Bronson...and he is just perfect! He is so beautiful...such an incredible blessing! You can see him at http://www.caringbridge.org/fl/davidjourneynorris/

Tuesday, September 4, 2007 11:17 PM CDT

Doug's had 3 golf matches by now. He and Dustin and their friends had fun over labor day weekend making videos. They were excited to start their Student Venture Bible study on Sunday.

Robby was back at football today with his brace on!

Rich actually liked his first week of classes and thinks his professors are pretty good.He was happy to hang out with his friends who came back from various campuses for the holiday weekend. He loves his car...and says it would be perfect if it had air conditioning. He'll have to save up to repair that.

Nick got stung by a wasp on his eye yesterday and it was swollen shut today. So, he got some meds from the dr. We were at a double header for Rob's AAU baseball team and it was incredibly hot to be out there for 5 hours! Yow!

Doug's MRI's are coming up in the next 2 weeks. He's so booked up with school and golf that it's hard to find time for his appointments....also the neurologist, ENT, and Endocrinologist, too.

Later

Tuesday, August 28, 2007 8:02 PM CDT

I have some updates!

DOUG AND GOLF!
Doug played his first golf match for his school today! Wow! Wow! I've not seen him this excited about something in a long time. What can I say....what a blessing to see him out there...to see him be able to do that. His coaches are very encouraging to him.

ROBBY'S INJURED MCL
Robby had his check up on his knee today after 2 weeks of PT. It's healing nicely and he's on track with his rehab. They think that he will be able to go back to sports with his brace on in a couple more weeks. His first week of middle school went great and his transition has seemed easy so far.

RICH BOUGHT HIS FIRST CAR!
He found a '99 red Ford Escort that he could afford and got it home yesterday just in time for his first class at Valencia Community College today. That's another first....first day of college classes.

DUSTIN is hangin out with friends, skateboarding a lot again until basketball season starts...also trying to stay interested in schoolwork. He has a new roomate~Doug. Doug moved from having a room with Rob to a room with Dustin.

HARPER loves Rich's new double bed in his room (he's a smart dog and doesn't forget a comfortable space when he finds it) and he got to take a ride around the block in Rich's new car.

I'm too tired to write more...that's it for now.

Friday, August 17, 2007

HAPPY 19TH BIRTHDAY RICH!!!! WOW!

We had a bit of a blindsiding event this week when Rob hurt his knee in football practice. When the doctor mentioned a torn ligament I could not hold back the tears. But, it turns out that it's a bad sprain of his MCL and it looks like a few weeks of therapy could get him back in the game. He'd planned to play football AND baseball this Fall. He starts middle school on Monday and some of his best buddies have the exact same schedules!

Doug and Dustin made it through their first week of school. Doug is hoping to play on the golf team this Fall! Doug is famous....at least he has "made it" on U Tube! He was part of a video that Student Venture made for their project this summer. His part was as one of the bad guy's men.

Tuesday, August 7, 2007 11:57 EST

AN UPDATE!!!!!!

Doug (and Dustin) had an incredible 2 months in Colorado working at the cafe and "playing" Colorado style with the other staff teens. They are going through withdrawal from their busy social schedule and are missing all of their friends from all over the country who for about 2 weeks were all together in one place with them.

Jon Foreman and Chad Butler from Switchfoot came out to Colorado to our conference on their day off from their tour and played an acoustic set for our staff. We got to chat with them a short time before they played. This was the 3rd time that we got to spend some time with them and Doug was very happy!

Our family got to spend a few days together at a ranch in the mountains before we had to fly home. We got to horseback ride through the mountains (Doug's favorite), do some hiking(Dustin's favorite), make somores over a firepit under the stars by our cabin(Rob's favorite), and play some poker late at night (Rich's favorite)!

We also got to do some trout fishing at a mountain lake. We all caught a bunch of trout and ate them for dinner with dear friends.

It's no wonder that they are NOT looking forward to starting school soon (twins next Monday & Rob in 2 weeks) Rich's plans have changed and he'll be going to Valencia Community College this semester here in Orlando starting late August with the intention of transferring to FSU as soon as possible.

Robby is trying something new and playing Pop Warner Football this Fall. Of course his big brother the football player is trying to give him all kinds of tips. It's nice to still have a reason to be at the highschool (Rob's football team is affiliated with Rich's H.S. team). We were going to miss it.

Doug had his check up at the oncologist today and his doctor is very happy with how well he's doing. Now, he only has to get a check up every 6 months! (He has to do his 6 month MRI this month) We have now officially entered his 3rd year of remission.

I hope to post more pictures once Doug and Dustin get some sent to them from their friend, Amy.

That's our update after 3 months of nothing.

Debbi for all

Sunday, June 10, 2007 10:57 PM CDT

Well, Doug, Dustin, and their dad have been in Colorado now for almost a week. Nick is working and the twins have been babysitting some, but they start a new job working in a cafe this week. Doug went biking with his dad on Saturday and I think they went hiking today. I am so, so happy for them. What a difference 2 years makes. Two years ago we just prayed that Doug would be strong enough to be out there for 2 weeks...and that he wouldn't get sick. That time was a treasure. But, it's so nice to have him being so healthy and independent now.

Rich, Rob, and I are holding down the fort here. Less than 2 weeks before Rich leaves for FSU. Rob will start All-Star practice sometime next week.

It's been 2 years since end-of-treatment for Doug! Now, that's something to celebrate!!!!

I just read a youth book about a 13 year old whose brother gets leukemia. Robby is reading it, so I wanted to be able to talk to him about it. It gave me a very good cry. It brought up a lot of memories and dug up some unresolved grief. It also made me think more of what Doug's brothers must have been going through. I especially thought about Robby because he was the one that was with us the most at appointments etc. He was so young. He was such a trooper. That kid is something else. What a blessing. He asked if I thought that he could write a book someday.......and I told him "of course". He's a good writer. Maybe we'll find out what he was really thinking and feeling during that whole time if he does write a book.

Doug and Dustin, hello, if you're reading this. I miss you, but I'm enjoying the quiet. This time away from you makes me realize how old you are. I'm so glad that you have these opportunities this summer!
Hey, Dusty, work on your drivers permit! :) Have fun, Doug!

Love,

Debbi (Mom)

Friday, May 18, 2007 3:44 PM CDT

END OF SCHOOL
Doug & Dustin have finished exams & and they officially SOPHOMORES in high school now! What a relief for them when they finished!

RICH'S GRADUATION
Life has been full & fun lately. We started with graduation parties last weekend & they are still going. On Tuesday Rich graduated with 881 classmates at Amway Arena. It was a great ceremony (long, but great) ending in fireworks. It was worth every long minute to cheer him on as he walked across that stage. We then had an open house for him & 3 of his friends attended by lots of students & parents and then an "after party" for his best friends at our house all night long. Rich was very grateful & said that he couldn't imagine a better graduation celebration. It really was a milestone, a rite of passage for him. We are very, very proud of him.

Doug & Dustin have gotten in on some of the ongoing festivities.(Remember they are "the brothers".) Doug spent the next day after Rich's graduation with Rich & 2 other graduates playing golf for 5 hours. I can't remember how many balls they lost, but they had a great time. lol

ROBBY'S GRADUATION FROM ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Today was Rob's 5th grade awards ceremony that our whole family was able to attend. Robby received a lot of great awards. One of his favorites was the "Leader of Tomorrow". Only 5 out of 125 kids got this award & it came with a really cool medal with an eagle on it. I posted a picture of him after the ceremony.

REFLECTION
We are tired, but very, very grateful that we are where we are today........able to celebrate these milestones freely with no pain & grief in our hearts...able to celebrate that Doug is in remission & getting stronger & able to celebrate all these things with us!!!!!

Sunday, May 6, 2007 9:11 AM CDT

Friday, May 11, 2007
I posted a pic of Rich with his new hair cut!

ANNIVERSARY
Wow, the anniversary of Doug's diagnosis came & went again. It's been 3 years since his diagnosis May 1, 3 years since his surgery May 4. In June we will celebrate a better anniversary....the 2 year anniversary of the end of treatment.

I used to think that 3 years was a long time. Not so any longer. If you would have told us at the time of diagnosis that we would still be dealing with the effects of the cancer & treatment 3 years later I think that I would have fainted.

HANNAH
One really great thing that has happened in the last several months is that Doug has connected with a girl in Arizona who is the same age & was diagnosed with medulloblastoma the same Spring of 2004. They've been through all the same treatment & they have an incredible amount of things in common. Hannah also deals with many of the things that Doug does....& many other things that Doug does not. I am so thankful that they have become good friends via the internet. No one else understands what Doug deals with every day as well as Hannah.

UPDATE
Doug has really been struggling with accumulative fatigue lately. It means that the fatigue has built up over the school year & he is more tired than ever. His brain needs a good long rest, but he has final exams this next week. The school is working to give him accomodations as best as they can, but he still has to take the exams to pass of course.

On the other hand, we saw the neurologist this week & Doug will be weaning off his meds for neuropathy! If all goes well then in 4 months he will be "released" from that doctor!

Also, his back pain seems to have subsided. He hasn't mentioned it for awhile. So, that scare seems to be over.

Doug's been playing some golf lately...especially with his friend, Zach. They have a lot of laughs on the golf course. Recently he, Nick, Zach, & my brother played at the annual Make-A-Wish tournament at our Eastwood club. Each year the owner there honors Doug & continues to support him.

RELAY FOR LIFE
We attended the Survivor's dinner & Relay for Life last week. Doug walked that survivor's lap for the second year in a row. We were also honaray chair so we said a few words on stage before the luminaria ceremony. We also made a new friends, Wendi, & family, a teacher at the high school who is a cancer survivor.

ROBBY
By the way, last Monday we found out that Robby fractured his thumb 8 days before that during one of his many baseball games. We were happy to find out that it was a minor fracture & they just splinted it & he has already started playing again. He just cannot be catcher. That's how he did it...framing a ball that was pitched & the ball bounced off of his thumb.

HAIR
This is a funny thing to say........but, Rich got his senior picture taken and then...HE GOT HIS HAIR CUT OFF. It's the first time in 3 years that he's had a hair cut. He looks so different that we (family & friends) literally have not recognized him at first. Rich & Dustin have not cut their hair since Doug started loosing his hair in June of '04....an interesting fact. Robby's kept his hair long since then too. Dustin will get his trimmed up soon, just not all cut off like Rich. Speaking of hair...Doug's hair is making some progress too. Though you can't see it in pictures the place that was radiated in the back of his head has been very thin & can look bald a times. His hair has been different textures in different areas & grows at different rates. But, it's gradually getting a bit thicker in the radiation spot.

I guess I had a lot to say this time. I think I'll post Rich's senior pic & take a pic of him now.

Sunday, April 22, 2007 9:08 PM CDT

DOUG & DUSTIN'S 17TH BIRTHDAY PARTY

They had their party & we've updated the photos. They requested spaghetti pizza & invited their Bible Study buddies plus Rob,Rich & friends. They played ping pong, baseball, basketball, and PS2! What's new! Interesting thing is that included in their gifts were Florida State t-shirts. I guess "the brothers" are being recruited to be FSU fans since their brothers are all going to FSU. Austin's brother, Ryan, Boyd's brother, Ramsey, and Doug & Dustin's brother Rich will all be attending FSU together. Pretty fun. "The brothers" are cooking up road trip ideas already.

Life is very, very full this Spring with Rich's graduation coming up, Robby's 5th grade graduation & end of the year things, and D & D's exams looming in just a few weeks.

We are trying to get over some sickness. Rob had it the worse...he's the walking wounded with a lingering sinus infection, a busted lip (from baseball) & a swollen thumb (from baseball).

Doug's back seems to have gotten better....and although he missed a few more days of school fighting a cold he seems to have recovered fairly quickly.

Doug's been driving as much as possible lately. It's motivated Dustin to study for his permit.

Survivor's dinner & Relay for Life are coming up this week.

Some of our very dear friends have a son at VA Tech...he's fine & we also have friends who are on Campus Crusade staff there. Plus, a handful of CCC students were involved in the tradgedy there so we have been praying for all of them this week.

That's all for now,

Debbi for Nick, Doug, Dustin, Rich, Robby

Tuesday, April 10, 2007 2:36 PM CDT

HAPPY 17TH BIRTHDAY DOUG & DUSTIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

They have to wait for their party until the 21st because that's when all of their busy friends are available. Inland Ocean was the store of choice this year.

We've had some parties at our house lately.....more & more boys. They each invited their own friends to a NCAA final four party....we had 12 boys from ages 11 -18 & Nick made 70 pounds of wings. This party included a ping pong tournament & a slam dunk contest in the cul-de-sac. They all had such fun that they had an encore slam dunk contest this weekend & they brought in "the girls" to be judges & they got it all on tape.

If you think that we were happy about The University of Florida winning the NCAA tournament then you need to be educated about FL schools. The Gators are THE OTHER Florida school. We are now aligned & it is official... we are FLORIDA STATE FANS because Rich has now decided to attend Florida State next year!!!!! He is very, very excited & has a boat load of friends going there with him. As we speak he is in Tallahasseee with 4 other buddies for a short road trip. I'm sure our van will be very familiar with that road over the years ahead.

Wow!!! 17 is just way too old for Doug & Dustin...I think that I really won't allow that one! Seriously, we are very thankful that we have had another year with them...thankful for God's blessings in our lives.

Just last week we had one of our first real scares when Doug was experiencing low back pain. We did get a bit scared. But, his doctor thinks it's just muscle related after his exam & because all of his MRI's have been completely "clean". If it continues we may get an MRI on the lumbar spine only just to be certain.

Last week the East Orlando Sun did an article on Doug's journey with cancer. They did a great job! It is a series leading up to our Relay For Life. The next 2 weeks will feature some of our other friends' journeys. Robby had his picture in that same issue for being a speech contest finalist at his school.

Those are some of the happenings around here.....Easter was actually very cool in Florida this year...go figure. Happy Easter again & Happy Birthday again to D& D!!!!

Debbi for all

Thursday, March 29, 2007 9:55 AM CDT

Well, it's been awhile since our last update. I have to really think about what's been going on.

12 DAYS UNTIL DOUG'S (& Dustin's) 17TH BIRTHDAY!!!!!

Doug & Dustin went to another Student Venture retreat over Spring Break & had a great time. They did some fun things with friends over the break, too. Doug is hanging in there with school work. He's pretty tired & still misses some days with a headache, sore throat, & general tiredness. I wish I could give him some sort of injection of energy & encouragement for these last 7 weeks of school.

He seems pretty energetic, though, when he gets to drive the car! He's also enthusiastic about connecting with his new friend from Arizona via email~another medullo survivor his same age. They have a lot in common since they were both first diagnosed & began treatment Spring of '04.

He & Dustin recently did a really cool service project with some of their classmates. They went to Give Kids the World. It's a facility located by Disney that helps children with life threatening illnesses. The kids can stay there for free while they are visiting Disney, but they have other services too. D & D dressed up in costumes & interacted with the kids for a day. They both really enjoyed it!

Dustin is still playing basketball a lot either at the park or now with a short term league that plays at their school. He scored 13 points in his last game & they won in overtime. He was excited!

Robby's playing baseball, baseball, baseball. But he has other things going on too. 5th grade is just the best year!
He won a speech contest & was one of 10 finalists that gave their speech to the whole school yesterday. The topic was "A Great American Leader" & he selected Bill Bright (Founder of Campus Crusade for Christ). He was also one of 5 nominees to represent their school in the "Disney Dreamer & Doer" contest (a leadership/citizenship thing). But, also, he hit his first ever over-the-fence home run in his USSSA game last Sunday. Now that was a memory!

Rich's graduation is coming up all too soon for us & not soon enough for Rich. He's still restricted in the sports activities that he can do because of his knee & that's frustrating for him, but his recovery is going well. He's decided to attend Valencia Community College the next 2 years, one of the reasons being that he's earned a scholarship that pays for all of his tuition there. Then he can transfer to a FL school of his choice for the last 2 years.

Nick & I have our own things going on, but too much to tell here. Life is full. Good things are happening in our souls & our relationships amidst life's everyday difficulties. The heaviness of Doug's cancer feels a little more distant right now. Although he does have a follow-up appointment with a group of his doctors at something called the tumor clinic next week. But that is next week.

Thanks for checking in with us,

Debbi for all

Friday, February 9, 2007 7:00 PM CST

UPDATE
It's been awhile. Doug wanted me to update & add new pics. The most recent have been from Christmas so that's what we posted.

Doug & Dustin have enjoyed their cell phones even more than I ever imagined. Plus, we really surprised them on Christmas day.

In the last 3 weeks Doug's had 2 MRI's, & been to the Oncologist, Nutritionist, Endocrinologist, & Neurologist. For the most part the news is very, very good. All clear on the MRI's & Doug had gained 6 pounds & gotten stronger. Plus he's had less neuropathy which he attributes to his weight gain. Dr. Kojic, his neurologist was very happy for him. She cleared him to drive....as long as he keeps eating she said. That made HIM very happy!

Robby got drum lessons for Christmas & has been practicing a lot & enjoying it. Oh, and have I mentioned that Rob is the expert Guitar Hero player in the family with Mom being a distant second. He also got "artist of the week" at his school & his canvas painting of a sunrise in FL is in the front office of his school. Our good news about Robby today is that he did NOT break his ankle while playing tackle football after school......he only sprained it! Couldn't he have thought NOT to tackle that 160 lb kid which resulted in the kid rolling over on Rob's ankle???? lol He'll have to take it easy for awhile & it will affect his multiple baseball practices this weekend. :) His season starts the beginning of March. Uncle Ric is coming this weekend to work with the pitchers on their team....Rob will be one of them this year. Nick is the head coach/mangager this season.

Dustin has finished the basketball season & had a great time. Rich is camping tonight with a couple of friends. They canoed down the Econolahatchee River & are camping on the bank somewhere.

The chaos continues in our house every day.....there's always some drama going on. I've had my fill of doctor's offices again lately.....routine & sick visits for all.

I did get to speak at Doug & Dustin's school's chapel service a couple of weeks ago. That was fun. It's fun getting to know more of the students there. Nick's been full up with work & helping Dustin's basketball team & he also went on an overnight field trip with Robby's class. Now he's having some fun getting the new team together for this season of baseball. Someone ought to make a t.v. drama about Little League..........it would be very interesting!

That's it for now. Let us know if you're reading this.

Debbi for all

Thursday, January 18, 2007 8:44 AM CST

FAMILY UPDATE/YEAR IN REVIEW
(since I didn't put one in our Christmas/New Year's cards!)


When leaving our house after spending Thanksgiving with us my brother quipped , “You guys always have a lot of drama going on in your house, don’t you”. I vehemently shook my head & affirmed to him that it has “always” been that way.
My brother & I grew up in a very quiet, calm, & orderly home.

That’s something that I’m experiencing just a little bit of each day for the first time in 18 years because all of the boys are out the door to school by 7:30am.

Yes, Robby is not being home schooled this year. He’s going to our neighborhood public school for 5th grade & loving it. He seems happy & is doing very well. He enjoys being a patrol, playing football at the park after school, art club once a week, making new friends, & striving for good grades. He’s still playing baseball. We should count just how many baseball games that we’ve been to. His team made the play-offs & won their district in the Spring, then he played all-stars into July, & started with a new USSSA team in August. He’s as passionate as ever & always seeking that perfect game. He went skiing (w/the alligators) for his 11th birthday & learned to surf (w/the sharks) this year.

Rich turned 18, He spent 6 weeks in East Asia on a missions project this summer & loved it, but had to jump right into his senior year activities upon his return. He was working really hard on the football team & enjoying it more than ever with their team being successful when during his 4th game of the season he tore his ACL. That was the end of his playing . He had surgery to repair it Oct. 11 & has been in rehab ever since. We are proud of the way he’s handled yet more adversity in his life. He was a great encouragement to his teammates as they went on to a historical 9-1 record & made the 6A FL football play-offs.

Dustin & Doug started school this year back again at Orlando Lutheran Academy. It is such a relief to have them in an environment where they’re already known, and where they get opportunities that they wouldn’t get elsewhere. For example, Dustin is playing on the varsity basketball team and really enjoying the experience. Dustin also worked this summer at Chik-Fil-A. Dustin & Doug got involved with Student Venture this Fall. Highlights from that are a weekly small group Bible Study , being kidnapped by the seniors, & attending their first conference all of which they loved. Doug said that he hasn’t had that much fun in forever!

Doug’s health? He’s still in remission with lots of follow-up appointments, but less than last year. There’s been improvement in many areas that were affected by the cancer treatment. For example, he’s had a full load at school & was able to handle semester exams. What a difference from a year ago! His energy & endurance have really improved, but his struggles are in the area of physical growth. He also has some nerve damage that affects him daily. He got his learner’s permit for driving this summer, but one of his doctors nixed the driving until he gets stronger. As you can imagine, that was not a popular thing to hear. He wanted to try his school’s team golf & baseball this year, but we determined it was still a bit much. He continues to play golf for fun at our neighborhood course.

I am still involved in the “cancer world”, keeping in contact with friends, going to some support meetings, honorary chair for our Relay for Life, & trying to encourage some newly diagnosed families. But, I’ve also picked up some other activities again, like 5th gr. room mom responsibilities & doing new staff evaluations & other ministry related things. I also started a new tradition at Rich’s school by organizing tailgate parties for the football team parents. That was fun. But, what I treasure most is my journey with God & how He’s bringing me along. He really can work for the good in all things. Nick & I are at a better place in our journeys than ever before. Wow, have we learned a lot in the last few years!

Nick is still the proverbial coach. He’s been one of Rob’s coaches on every team, & he’s assisting with Dustin’s basketball . He’s also really helped move things along in his position at work with Spiritual Formation on the Human Resources team. One highlight was getting to attend Larry Crabb’s School of Spiritual Direction retreat last Spring. Of course he & the boys are still passionate sports fans especially during football season. He got to take Rich to see Notre Dame’s vs. Georgia this Fall. It’s a good thing that I joined them in their love for football or I’d be sunk. Here’s a funny thing: Rob decided that he’d like to open up a sports restaurant specifically for the fans of the Packers, Notre Dame, and the Red Sox. I told him that I’m just not sure how much business he would get for that combination. :)

Thanks for reading a bit about all of us. We love hearing from all of you. If you actually took the time to read this thing, then please let us know by signing the guestbook.

Love,

Debbi for all

Friday, December 22, 2006 11:50 PM CST

A QUICK NOTE
I intend to write a year in review type of update for our whole family, but haven't gotten to it yet. We just got our Christmas cards/pics out today...at least 250 of them...the rest will have to get out in the next several days.

The boys are very, very happy to be done with exams. The twins made it through their first round of sememster exams as high school students. When I reflect on where Doug was at last year at this time I am amazed that he was able to do all of that studying & test-taking!

They've had some fun... the twins played some golf... Rich hanging out with friends & going to parties...Rob always looking for friends to play some kind of sport & to spend the night with.

We read our traditional "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever" book tonight & checked out some more lights in the neighborhood. It's hot, humid, & rainy here right now.

Nick & I had a little retreat for a few days...very nice to relax & spend time together...a very rare occasion! My mom's here & doing everyday life with us.

Am very thankful for how God's brought us along in our journeys & how He continues to reveal Himself to us...am too tired to elaborate now....just grasping more in our hearts that He is good whether we live, die, suffer, linger, are sad or happy, or are miserable.

Celebrating God with us,

Debbi for all

Saturday, December 9, 2006 9:44 PM EST

UPDATE
Not too much to say. We got our Christmas decorations up....& with a lot less effort than in the past couple of years. Our whole family took a walk tonight to look at the lights in our neighborhood & we also saw the night shuttle launch while we were out. That was really awesome. It lit up the whole sky & we could see it very clearly!

We keep having some sickness getting passed back & forth. Hasn't effected Doug lately. Doug & Dustin have 6 final exams to study for. Let's just say that they are not happy about this new experience.

Doug's next MRI's & appointments aren't until January. We are in the process of lining up a nutritionist for him.

I'm doing most of my Christmas shopping online as usual. We've been going to Dustin's basketball games. Even with the holiday season things tend not to be as hectic for us as the Fall or Spring.

Grandma Baldwin is in Florida & is coming back to our house from Uncle Ric's tomorrow. All of her homemade cookies & candy will be way gone by the time we reach Christmas. Harper will be glad to see "the treat lady" again. She brings dog treats in her suitcase for him. He goes into her room every morning & begs for more. lol

It is very nice to have things rather "quiet" in our lives right now.

Hope all is well for you,

Debbi for all

Sunday, November 26, 2006 9:05 AM CST

UPDATE
Wow, this November has gone really fast, & I didn't realize that I hadn't updated at all.

Doug got over his sinus infection thankfully, & even had a bit of a cold start again, but it went away. It took him awhile to get caught up at school.

Dustin's had 3 basketball games. I'll try to get a picutre of him this week. He's loving all the perks of varsity basketball, school colored shoes, warm-ups, sweatshirts, etc.

Nick had his birthday & I won't mention how old he is.Robby made him a sign that said "Happy 26th!" wink, wink. It was pretty low key.

Robby's baseball team had another tournament where they all learned to encourage each other even when they were in over their heads with the competition. It was a good life lesson for him.

Rich's football team lost their play-off game, but the whole community was very proud of their historical season. Rich's knee is doing great...he had a check-up & is continuing PT.

We had Thanksgiving with my brother. We all had a nice, relaxing time together. Of course we had our annual "Turkey Bowl" where the dads & their sons play flag football at the park in the morning. (Another disappointing venture that Rich chose to opt out of because he's not allowed to run yet.) The other boys had fun, though.

That's just a newsy report, but all for now.

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!

Debbi for all

Tuesday, October 30, 2006 7:42am

UPDATE
Doug went to the doctor again. He was really sick over the weekend & she told him that if she'd seen him the day before she might have hospitalized him because he just doesn't have a lot of reserve...he's so thin. But, evidently the antibiotic is working because we caught it early & he's turned the corner. But, she told him to stay home from school until he's completely better. It gave us a bit of a scare because some of the symptoms of the sinus infection were similar to having a brain tumor. Whew! Now, if he'd just quit worrying about missing school on top of it! PLEASE PRAY THAT HE HEALS COMPLETELY!

Rich is doing great with his PT & has resumed most of his activities...EXCEPT THAT HE'S NOT SUPPOSED TO RUN & I'm afraid he might forget! The Timbercreek Wolves (his football team) made history with a 9-1 record & made the Division 6A (highest one) play-offs! Rich is going to try & make practice to support his team when he's not at PT. Their first game is Friday, Nov. 10.

Rob had a double-header with his USSSA baseball team this weekend. They started the season as a brand new team & are improving a lot. Robby's been playing catcher again & threw a guy out at 2nd! This league has longer bases so the throw is longer & they also can lead off, so there's a lot more stolen bases. He's having fun.

Dustin's basketball coach said the he's doing great. He's a freshman on the varsity squad. He's bummed that they didn't have enough for a JV team. On a JV team he would have gotten to play all the time, but the experience will be good for him. He's working hard.



Friday, October 27, 2006 9:43am

Doug still isn't feeling well & we'll be giving him an antibiotic. Hopefully this will help him get over the hump & get well. Please pray.

Rich is doing great! He's been at school this week, the last 2 days walking with no crutches up the stairs and everything. It's Senior night at the football game tonight. We're looking forward to having him & his senior teammates honored.


Sunday, October 22, 2006

DOUG has been a little sick with a cold & missed a day of school, but bounced back today & had fun going out to eat with the Student Venture Bible study that he & Dustin are in together. One of Rich's friends, a senior, leads it. I'm pretty sure that it's the highlight of their every week


DUSTIN started basketball conditioning at school this week & spent all day this Saturday at a skate park.

ROBBY HAD HIS 11TH BIRTHDAY FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20!!!! He had a fun 2 days. I brought in spicey wings & had lunch with he & his friend Brandon at school, then he shared a cookie cake with the whole class. (By the way, he got straight A's on his first report card. His teacher said that Robby must have had a pretty good teacher his first 5 years. :) On Saturday we took him & a couple of buddies out on our friends' boat to do some skiing & tubing! Then they hung out with us at a clubhouse for a work related party that night (swimming, pool, ping pong, football etc.) They were happy & exhausted by the end of the day. Pretty nice for an 11 year old to get to surf one weekend & water ski the next!!! He got a new BMX bike, a Brady Quinn jersey, & a David Ortiz jersey for gifts!

RICH is hanging in there. His recovery has been a little slower than we anticipated because of the intense pain. But, the doc says his knee looks great. He got the staples out & he starts PT Monday. He made it to the game Friday night & crutched around the whole field again. Their team won in another close one & they are now 8-1 & could make school history by making the play-offs if they win this week.

Nick is traveling this week & I'm attending an in-town Human Resources training conference during the day. I've also been talking with friends of ours in NC whose 2 1/2 yr. old was just diagnosed with leukemia. Ugh...so painful, intense & overwhelming for them. Brings back a lot of memories.

Debbi for all

Saturday, October 14, 2006 10:03pm EST

Rich Update:
Day 4 after surgery for Rich. We've had to change his pain meds twice, but his head is finally clear w/less meds. The best medicine has been his friends that have come over & hung out with him the last 2 days. He's outside in the wheelchair (the one we've had for my mom & Doug) watching them play basketball now. We all finally got some good sleep last night. Yeah!

Thursday, October 12, 2006 6:19pm EST
UPDATE
RICH'S surgery went well. His knee looks amazingly great...just 4 "punch hole" incisions & not even very swollen so far! We're sleep deprived right now......surgery was very early, then we had some recovery issues to deal with (high blood pressure, allergic reaction to meds, & the expected pain levels). But, otherwise he's doing great & is holed up in his "recovery room" at home with willing nurses(mom & dad) available at the call on the cell phone.

DOUG (& actually Dustin too) got some disappointing news today at the endocrinologist. They are not candidates for growth hormone.....it's too late & not worth the risk (for Doug). Doug has one other option to possibly help his growth a little & we're looking into that. It's been concluded that their premature birth genetics radiation/chemo (for Doug) all play a part in their lack of growth.

ROBBY is spending his Fall Break at a beach house with a friend & their family. He called to tell us that he learned to surf today!! I'm soooooo glad that he's there having fun & not in this "home-turned-hospital" for his short vacation. (Doug & Dustin had their Fall Break a few weeks ago)

Thank you for praying & asking about Rich,

Debbi for all

Saturday, October 7, 2006 5:44PM EST

Added Update
Doug & Dustin & some other freshman friends were kidnapped FOR FUN by his brother & his other senior friends from Student Venture in the middle of the night last night. They had quite the adventure & got home at 5am safe & sound with Rich. I had to share a snapshot of the event...taken by me at 1:45am. Doug & Dustin said it was fun!

Rich's team~Timbercreek Wolves~ won again last night & are 6-1!


UPDATE ~ Oct. 6, 2006 12:34PM EST
DOUG'S neurologist lit a fire under him (she threatened him...if you don't gain weight then we'll have to ___________). So, he's doing better with taking the supplements that he needs. It will take some time to see the difference, but it's got to be doing him good. He's drinking at least 2 Ensure-Plus 8 oz. a day w/350 calories in them & taking his vitamins. Before this he had refused to drink anything that tasted slightly badly.

He's hanging in there with school. The first 9 weeks is almost over & I think he's done just fine. He works extra hard doing his algebra. We played some golf over his Fall Break & had fun.

RICH's ACL surgery is next week, Wednesday, Oct. 11 in the morning. His incision is only supposed to be like a "punch hole" & he chose to use an allograft (sp?) which is a ligament from a cadaver to repair it. This way he won't have the extra pain of taking ligaments from his own leg. It is out-patient surgery, and we're expecting him to be down for several days at home afterwards. He's done great with his pre-hab & has been walking well on it lately. The trainer said that the strength in his quad muscle should help his recovery.

Their football team lost their first game to a traditionally great & nationally ranked team last week, so they are 5-1....still an awesome year. Rich has been hanging in there on the sidelines encouraging & supporting his teamates 100 percent!

That's all for now,

Debbi

Friday, October 6, 2006 9:01EST

UPDATE
DOUG'S neurologist lit a fire under him (she threatened him...if you don't gain weight then we'll have to ___________). So, he's doing better with taking the supplements that he needs. It will take some time to see the difference, but it's got to be doing him good. He's drinking at least 2 Ensure-Plus 8 oz. a day w/350 calories in them & taking his vitamins. Before this he had refused to drink anything that tasted slightly badly.

He's hanging in there with school. The first 9 weeks is almost over & I think he's done just fine. He works extra hard doing his algebra. We played some golf over his Fall Break & had fun.

RICH's ACL surgery is next week, Wednesday, Oct. 11 in the morning. His incision is only supposed to be like a "punch hole" & he chose to use an allograft (sp?) which is a ligament from a cadaver to repair it. This way he won't have the extra pain of taking ligaments from his own leg. It is out-patient surgery, and we're expecting him to be down for several days at home afterwards. He's done great with his pre-hab & has been walking well on it lately. The trainer said that the strength in his quad muscle should help his recovery.

Their football team lost their first game to a traditionally great & nationally ranked team last week, so they are 5-1....still an awesome year. Rich has been hanging in there on the sidelines encouraging & supporting his teamates 100

Friday,Sept. 22, 2006....11:59pm EST

UPDATE
Rich is off crutches & limping around pretty well right now. It's not stopping him from doing a lot still. He was a captain at the game tonight again even though injured & was a great encouragement to the team. And, they won! They're 5-0 & ranked in the top 10 in the state.

Doug needs prayer & encouragement. His weight has leveled off & he's not gained for a long time. His doctors have given him some pep talks & some threats about needing to do everything he can to gain weight & eat well.

Tuesday, September 19, 2006
GUEST SPOT ON DOUG'S WEBSITE: RICH DECOLA

Well, I have to give Rich a guest spot with what's happened to him. He tore is ACL in the 4th game of his senior year of football. Surgery is tentatively scheduled for Oct. 11.

The next game after he got injured was one of the biggest games in the school's short 6 year history. It was against 5th ranked in the state, Winter Park(an older school steeped in tradition & powerhouses in sports). Timbercreek just moved up to the biggest division 6A last year. It was "killing" Rich not to be able to play in that game. But, a couple of really great things happened. First, he was made one of the captains for the game & so he crutched out on the field for the coin toss with his other co-captain comrades. And, the second thing is that THEY WON!!!!! So, now they are still undefeated.

So, I had to share some fun pictures from the game. Rich is #51.

I must say that Rich has had a really good attitude about this whole thing. We're proud of him. He's been crutching around everywhere...so much so that the trainer told him to stay home last night & get that leg elevated so that the swelling will go away. They're doing pre-hab with him so he'll be ready for surgery.

Everyone with the team, coaches, & parents have been very empathetic & supportive & that means a lot.

Surgery will be no picnic. We'll keep you posted.

Thanks for checking in with us,

Debbi for all

Friday, September 8, 2006 6:57 AM CDT

Thursday, Sept. 14, 2006
This is so depressing to type...,but for those of you who still check this site, wanted to let you know that Rich, our oldest~senior football player, got injured in last Friday night's game & tore his ACL (knee ligament) clear through. We'll be scheduling surgery soon, & it's a 4-6 month recovery. We are so sad for him.


Friday, Sept. 8, 2006
UPDATE
IT'S BEEN A LONG TIME.....

since Doug's be able to do various things. Two things that he got to do last weekend were 1)go to the beach, boogie board, not have to worry about the sun, or getting tired, or anything hurting him etc. He just did normal things & I didn't even think about him differently. 2)He went tubing on a lake with his dad & brothers & had a great time! (We've been careful about some of these things because of his balance issues, possible head trauma, & his still somewhat thin, frail, body.)

STILL DOING WELL
Doug's still doing fine with a full day of school & has adjusted to work load & is making it. This is a huge victory!

We'll be going for Doug's 3 month check at Dr. Hajjar's next week. We'll see what they say about some of the side effects that Doug still deals with (weight,neuropathy,swallowing, etc.).

MISCELLANEOUS
Rich & Nick had a great time at the Notre Dame game. What a great memory.....and they won!

Rich's football team is 3-0 & the parents had a successful 2nd tailgate party with more of them in the plans.

My plate is filling up & could be overflowing if I don't be careful~ assistant room mom & club liason for Robby's school,honorary chair for Relay for Life, Sending Associate coach & evaluator for the ministry. I'm cooking dinner again, baking for the kids some, cleaning, organizing etc. These may seem normal, but these kinds of things were difficult or not possible in the 2 years of Doug's treatment.


I added a picture of Doug tubing.

That's all for now,

Debbi for all

Wednesday, August 30, 2006 9:29 AM CDT

UPDATE
This is a whole new year for us!

DOUG is making it....he's taking 6 credits as a freshman at Orlando Lutheran. He's often very tired (mentally fatigued) when he gets home, but so far so good. He still hasn't gained weight or gained enough strength, though. That and neuropathy are some of his biggest leftover challenges.

DUSTIN is doing fine with school & is preparing for the winter baseketball season by taking a personal fitness class & working out in the gym on Saturdays when he's not working.

RICH's life is full as usual. He turned 18 on the 17th! Football season started off well with 2 big wins. We are committed to being more involved with his activities for his senior year (now that we can), so I organized the first ever tailgate party for the football parents last week. Hopefully this will become a tradition. It was a success despite the rain. Plus, I ordered shirts for the moms that have our son's names & numbers on the back & made a sign to support the team from the parents.

ROBBY is doing incredibly well at school & in baseball. He's adjusted quickly to public school. The passion & self-determination that we see with baseball is shining through at school, too. It's also fun to hear about his leadership skills as a patrol. He's on the USSSA Orlando Surge baseball team, & they played their first tournament last weekend.

I'm finding plenty to fill my time....even running out of time to do the things I need or want to do each day. I feel like I just got back from 2 years in another world.

Nick's just getting back into the swing of going back to the office after the renovations, but he's still working at home some & that way Rich can have the car for school & practice sometimes.

Miscellaneous thoughts:

Today we have an official "hurricane day", but it's anti-climactic because it's been down-graded to a tropical depression. (We don't even need to stay inside. lol)

August 25th was the one year anniversary of the death of Doug's friend, David.

We all enjoyed watching the little league world series on t.v.

Nick & Rich are making a father-son road trip to the NOTRE DAME vs. Georgia Tech football game in Atlanta this weekend. Go ND! This was Rich's b-day gift!

That's all for now,

Debbi for all

Tuesday, August 8, 2006 11:07 AM CDT

UPDATE

Doug's doing fine at school so far! He really wanted to be on the golf team, but we think that the schedule will be too much for him this year. It would mean a couple of 12 hour days with homework on top. We still love the school. Love that the teachers already know them & have their best interest at heart. (No telling his story all over again to new people & trying to help them understand the whole thing & the side effects that he's left to deal with!) Yeah! Such a relief for us!

Dustin considered soccer tryouts, but decided to just stick to adjusting to a high school work load right now. He's also working on Saturdays all day.

Rich survived his "hitting the ground running" week right after he returned from overseas. Even though he was really sick he made his 2- a- day football practices, got his summer reading essays completed, & is back at school now AS A SENIOR! He & his friends started the week off with a prayer time at our house Sunday night. His schedule this year will consist of Student Venture leadership, in a Bible study, leading a Bible study, yearbook sports editor, playing football, working, plus applying for colleges.

Robby happily made it through his first day of public school ever yesterday! Everything is new for him & it's exciting to see him meet the challenges including the responsibility of being a patrol. He's got a great teacher who we were already friends with & loves Robby, & one of his best friends is in his class.

Nick & I are experiencing a "first".........a quiet house. They're all gone by 7:30am! I enjoyed starting their first day off by going to our mom's prayer group where we pray for all of our kids & their schools.

I ADDED A NEW PIC OF ROB ON HIS FIRST DAY!

Debbi for all

Tuesday, August 1, 2006 8:15 AM CDT

UPDATE
Doug is off to his first full day of school today! Please pray that this all works for him. He has been having fun learning to drive with his dad & is doing well. (I was the one who drove with Rich the most at first. Now, Nick has been the one to start with Doug.)

Rich got home last night!!!! His trip was a great success. He's exhausted as to be expected, and is sick (stomach thing), but is at football practice already. He brought back lots of gifts for us including an authentic sword for Robby. Doug & Dustin are wearing their shirts from Rich to school today.

Robby is going to the public school (5th gr.) for the first time this year! He meets his teacher this week, & is going to be a patrol. First day is next Monday. He was asked to play with a couple of different baseball teams this fall. One team he tried out for & made was a 12 & under team, but we decided to have him play with the other kids his age this time. So, he's playing on an 11 & under team for the fall.

Dustin has lots of money from working so much this summer. I don't think he's looking forward to school so much. But, I think that he likes going back to Orlando Lutheran.

My mom is recovering well from her knee replacement. It was sad to have to stop taking care of her, but I was very happy to get back home with ALL my guys. (including Harper....I guess he didn't eat well when I was gone...funny dog. lol)

July 26th was our 20th wedding anniversary. Per usual Nick & I will celebrate on a date when things have settled down for our family, but Nick sent me a dozen gorgeous red roses & a small white bear (the bear Harper is jealous of) in Indiana.

I have to go & do a week's worth of laundry (from Nick & the 3 boys) & a month of laundry (from Rich)! He said that it was cheaper to buy new shirts than to do laundry there. lol

Debbi for all

P.S. I added a few new pics.

Friday, July 28, 2006 12:20pm EST

**Doug got his learners permit yesterday!!!! CONGRATULATIONS DOUG!!!

Rich's plane has landed in the states...waiting to hear from him!

My mom is doing well & is waiting to go home from the hospital today.

UPDATE
Fri,7-14-06
DOUG
Next year Doug & Dustin will be Freshmen. Wow, that's amazing! This morning we nailed down Doug's school schedule for next year. He's going to try 6 credits & make up 1 other credit online or in the summer. He'll be at school a full day with 2 study periods. He's been studying off & on this summer to get his learner's permit to drive. His goal is to get it before Rich returns.

ROB
Robby's baseball season finally ended! They lost in the play-off game last night.........what a ride it was! He played baseball from March until now. It was a great experience for him & some unforgettable moments. But, even though it's ended I think he'll be trying out for an AAU team for next year soon.

DUSTIN
Dustin had a great couple of weeks skate boarding with his friend, Will. He's making some good money because he's been working a lot more days at Chik-Fil-A.

RICH
We heard from Rich via phone. He is doing fantastic personally & is very excited about everything they're doing in East Asia with their group. We miss him but are so satisfied after we heard from him that he is exactly where he ought to be right now.

Now that baseball is over what will we do? The boys are excited about some fun things we have planned for next week. Then, I will be flying to Indiana to be with my mom after her knee replacement surgery. Both Rich & I return July 31 which is the first day of school for the twins & the first day of football practice for Rich! Our summer is coming to an end soon.

That's it for now. I'm posting another good baseball pic of Robby in photos.

Debbi for all

Wednesday, July 13, 2006 10:31pm EST

*Addition to the Update
Robby's All-Star team has won every game so far! They're in the play-off Thursday night. Very fun!

Thurs.,July 6, 2006 7:21pm EST
UPDATE

We've still been doing a lot of baseball. Rob's had All-Star practice every night & we've been going out to watch his friends in the 9/10 division tournament. The 10/11's (his team) start Saturday morning. In the meantime he was in a 4th of July tourney over the weekend, played well, & had a lot of fun.

We had a fun 4th of July celebration too. Our friends, the James, came over & we had great 4th of July fare. I actually made 2 pies. It was so good to have the energy to do something like that. It's been a long time. We went back out to the ballpark where they were having a festival,contests & fireworks. Robby actually won the home run derby for his age group & the prize was an MP3 Player! He won another baseball contest & gave the $50 gift card to a skateboard shop to Dustin! Doug was a great sport & entered the contests too.

Dustin's been really enjoying skateboarding a lot again. He's had 2 great buddies to skate with recently. Plus, he's working a lot this week at Chik-Fil-A.

Rich made it to the other side of the world for his mission's project! We really miss him, but are so excited for him for this adventure & proud of his faith.

Doug's been hanging out with his brothers a lot lately & helping around the house. He helped his dad mow a couple of friend's lawns today. That's still pretty tiring for him.

Nick's temporarily taken over Rich's room to work in since his office at headquarters is being renovated.

I've been trying to catch up on what feels like 2 years of piles in the house.

PRAYER REQUESTS

*for Doug's nutrition & overall health

*for motivation for Doug to work again at getting stronger

*for Doug's growth

*for his transition from being sick to being "normal"

*for Rich's health & safety on his trip

*for Doug's cancer to never return

Hope you're all having a great summer!

Sincerely,

Debbi for all

Monday, June 19, 2006 6:05 PM CDT

UPDATE
PARTIES
Our Saturday was full & fun. Robby started All-Star practice in the morning. Dustin & Rich worked. Then, Doug went with us to Robby's End-of-the-Season Baseball pool party. The boys received some fun awards besides their trophies & they all cut loose in the pool.

Later, Nick, Rich, & I headed to a send-off party for his overseas trip. He leaves in 9 days & won't be back until school starts! He still needs to finish his fundraising & other preparations.

UGH
That night Nick took Rich to an urgent care clinic because he had a huge infection in his leg. Ugh. But, we got it taken care of just in time. It's better.

FATHER'S DAY
The boys gave Nick a very creative day. They made our house a resturant & served him a very nice lunch of cheese fries, broiled salmon, salad, & cheesecake. The menu was all to Dad's liking. We had chef Rich, Hosts Doug & Harper, busboy Dustin, & Waiter Robby. Harper hosted Dad in a shirt & tie. lol (see photo) Then, they presented Nick with a video telling him what he means to them. They each had their own interests represented so that Dad could remember years from now what they were spending time doing. (Rich~ football, Doug~ golf, Dustin~ skateboarding, Robby~ baseball)

UGH
I had to have a gastroscopy this morning. (Everything's fine...just checking because of my reflux.) Glad to get that over with. I've been a bit loopy, sleepy, drowsy as the sedative had to wear off.

That's it for now. HAPPY FATHER'S DAY! (As you can see in the picture, Nick was very touched by his boys' gifts)

Debbi for all

.

Friday night, 6-9-06, 11:48pm EST

They won!!!!!! Robby's team are the champions / District 24 Little League Top Team! They will get their names on a huge plaque/sign at our ballpark. It's been fun for our family to celebrate with Robby. To be on the "top team" as a 10 year old is a very blessed & fun experience for him. :) It's so fun to have this victory...I cannot tell you what it means to have something go our way. Plus, the whole experience was so positive..., great kids, parents, coaches, league support, & very good sportsmanship! (I'll try to post pictures tomorrow)
____________________________________
*****June 9, 2006, Friday 9:00am EST
Robby's team won again last night so they are in the championship game tonight!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :)
_______________________________________
*** June 7, 2006, Wednesday night...10:00pm. Robby's team won again so they're in the district semi-finals tomorrow night!
___________________________________
Monday, June 5, 2006
UPDATE
WISHMAKERS BALL
We had a fantastic time at the Make-A-Wish Black Tie Gala Saturday night! We were asked to speak about Doug's wish before the auction, and Doug did an incredible job. With mic in hand Doug told hundreds of people about Harper & what he means to our family. The M-A-W volunteers were kind & fun & made our kids feel special. We also got to know some other "wish kids" & their families.

SUPRISE
We were totally overwhelmed when they revealed our portrait on stage in a huge,beautiful glass frame & found out that it was a gift from the portrait studio!!They also had all of the proofs cycling through on a
video screen & they were incredibly good....including
Harper who was "smiling" & very cute...I so wish you could see them all.


There were so many good pictures of the night that I'm having a hard choosing which ones to include to "capture" everything. I included a picture of one of the portrait proof pictures that were on the video screen. At least it gives you an idea of what they look like. :) This was all a great memory & we were all very happy to be able to help Make-A-Wish raise almost a quarter of a million dollars from the event!

BASEBALL
Rob's team has won games #1, #2, & #3 of the district top-team tournament! They play game #4 Wednesday & then hopefully on to the semi-final round. Robby's played very well & is having fun, & we're all celebrating with him.

That's it for now...enjoy the new pics!

Debbi for all

Friday, June 2, 2006 9:36 PM CDT

UPDATE
Doug had a couple of appointments this week...major progress with both. The neurologist said he's still improving a lot, but he just needs to keep having his nerves repair & he needs to gain more strength. She prescribed protein, vitamins, & working hard at PT & exercise. (She wants to see more strength in his legs before he starts driving the car. So I'd think that would be a good incentive!) At the opthamologist we confirmed that his double vision is TOTALLY GONE, he has his depth perception back, & his eyes are 20/25!!!!!

The day after these appointments Doug walked a mile (w/Harper of course), road his bike back & forth to a friend's, played basketball, played in the pool, & played in a scrimmage with Robby's baseball team at practice! Now, if he'd just do that much every day!

BASEBALL~ ROBBY
We have to have a baseball update since that's what we do a lot. Rob's team is in the district tournament & they won game #1 out of 4 tonight. :)

DUSTIN
Dustin has his first day of work at Chik-fil-a tomorrow! It's easier to find a job when the owner is your best friend's dad. :)

RICH
Rich is preparing to go on his mission's trip to East Asia, working at Panera, weight training for football, & hopefully writing essays for college applications (since he'll have no time when he gets back from his trip).

GUITAR HERO
lol....Our whole family has been playing a lot of "Guitar Hero". I'll leave this as a mystery for those of you who do not know what it is. You can ask around....,& I'm sure you could "google" it. We have different friends in & out of our house every day playing it too. (I think that we could count it as an occupational therapy for Doug!)


PRAYER REQUESTS
*Please say a prayer for Doug when you read this...that he will get stronger & that he will grow & that the cancer will never come back.

*Also, he just got a cold virus & he needs to be interviewed at the Make-A-Wish Fundraiser Event tomorrow night. He'd appreciate your prayers for that

Hope you're having a good summer vacation. Thanks for checking,

Debbi

Saturday, May 27, 2006 7:14 PM CDT

UPDATE
This last week our family spent most of our time at the baseball park watching Robby in the play-offs. It ended with a thrilling win on Thursday night! Now Rob's team will play a district tourney next weekend.

On Friday our hearts were heavy again as we attended Abbigail's memorial. It was very difficult.

Today, we got a family portrait taken for another Make-A-Wish Gala that we will attend next Saturday. So, while the boys were in their nice shirts we took a snapshot at home. Oh, and the portrait included Harper.........& I think he was the star!

Then, we got to go skiing & tubing for the first time on a Florida lake. A friend of ours invited us out. It was great to see Doug out there attempting to ski even if he didn't make it up. I think he still needs improved strength for it. He'll get it....he used to be the most beautiful skiier you've ever seen.

It was great to be doing all these things together as a family. We told Rich that we think that we've seen him more this week than we have all year. lol

Hope you all are having a good weekend!

Debbi

Monday, May 22, 2006 1:47 PM CDT

UPDATE
Doug's doing well! The twins had their 8th grade graduation banquet & a fun last week at school. We've taken a few weeks off of PT because of all the end-of-school activities. *Note: I added new pictures!

MORE SORROW
We're having a sad time, though, in another way. Last Tuesday Emily Richards, 6, died. Emily is the daughter of our friends, Henry & Janet. She died of complications from severe disabilities. Henry & Janet have been such a blessing to us during Doug's battle because they understand having a suffering child. We were very pleased to be able to help them with the memorial for Emily that took place Friday night. It was a celebration that Emily is now with the Lord, but also sad because we know how much they will miss her.

On Saturday Doug & Nick played in a golf tournament fund raiser for other friends of ours. These friends are in our parents-of-kids-with-cancer support group. Their daughter, Abbigail, 4, had just relapsed with her cancer & we found out that she wasn't doing well at all. But, we were still so shocked when we find out that she died on Sunday morning.

REFLECTIONS
Emily's mom, Janet, said "You guys have been thrown into the world of suffering & grief." We have. It's where God has led us lately. I sat at Emily's memorial with Sarah (David's mom...David,4, Doug's good buddy, died just last August). I'll never forget how scared Abbigail's parents looked when they heard of David's death....because their kids had the same kind of cancer. My heart breaks for these families.

This brings up questions for Doug: "Why did they die & I did not? What if I relapse? I'll feel badly to see Abbigail's parents....will they resent that I made it & she didn't? It's just so sad." (I hear it's called survivor's guilt.)

This is all very hard. I don't know for sure how heaven works,...but, it would be pretty cool if David, Emily, & Abbigail are all running & playing & happy together. But, it's pretty awful for those that are left behind grieving for the loss of them.

PRAYER REQUESTS
*so you can pray for all of our hearts

*keep praying that Doug's cancer will never come back
*pray for his growth & overall rehabilitation
*pray for wisdom for our decisions about specifics of the boy's education for next year

Believing still,

Debbi for all

Saturday, May 13, 2006 9:40 PM CDT

UPDATE
Doug received a certificate for making the Merit Roll at school this year. This award means so much more to us because we know just how incredibly hard he has had to fight and work to earn it!!!!

They have only 1 week of school left & they are really ready!!!

Doug played golf again today. Other than that, we've been doing the usual of Robby's baseball games. Rob's team will be in a play-off tourney in 2 weeks. We also went to Rich's Spring football scrimmage & will attend a game next week. He's playing as a senior now!!!! The seniors have graduated & this is next year's team. He's still playing guard on the o-line.


HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO EVERYONE!!!

Love,

Debbi for all

Sunday, April 30, 2006 2:00PM EST

May 1, 2006
ANNIVERSARY

Whoa...we almost forgot that this is the 2nd anniversary of Doug's dianosis of the brain tumor. May 4 was his surgery & the day that it was confirmed as cancer. Cancer...the dredded word... that we now probably don't go a day w/out saying ...2 years later. And, thinking of the Cancer Clinic at Florida Hospital actually brings up pretty good feelings because we had such good treatment there by Dr. Hajjar & his staff. Plus, they did such a good job of making the place as "fun" as possible. Wow...we are very thankful for where Doug is at now when we think of where he's been!

April 31, 2006 2:00PM EST

UPDATE
Doug's last MRI was all clear!

RELAY FOR LIFE
On Friday we participated in the survivor's dinner & survivor's laps at our community's Relay For Life. (Again, last year we could not attend because Doug was too sick.)

They did such a good job of encouraging & celebrating with the survivors. We also were able to speak at the luminare ceremony to tell a little of Doug's story & thank the community for their help. (East Orange Little League, CURVES, Eastwood Country Club, Buzz For Doug Fundraiser, Super Star Video, the kid's schools, our church & more all gave us help & support.)

MAKE-A-WISH
Then, Saturday night we attended a fundraiser event for Make-A-Wish. M-A-W asked us to tell Doug's wish story about Harper. It was a black-tie gala event sponsered by the Ferrari Club & the Celebration community at the Celebration Hotel by Disney. We met a lot of really kind & generous people who raised @ $125,000 for Make-A-Wish. And, it was a fun thing for us to be a part of. We were so glad to be able to give back a little to M-A-W. As we've said over & over Harper is a priceless gift to our family.

I'll post a couple of pics. Wish we'd gotten more.

PRAYER REQUESTS
*still pray for his growth
*for continued rehabilitation in all areas
*for Doug to trust God w/all of his continued challenges of recovering from brain cancer...especially to be motivated to do what it takes in the area of PT & nutrition
*that God will provide for all of our needs so that Doug will continue to get the best possible care
*of course...that the cancer will never return

Thanks for checking on us,

Debbi for all

Monday, April 17, 2006 7:15 PM CDT

4-26-06 UPDATE
Doug's MRI was all clear!

CELEBRATION

This week we celebrated Doug & Dustin's 16th birthday on Monday as a family & again with some of their friends on Saturday. And, of course we celebrated Easter!

As you can see Doug & Dustin each got one big gift, ipods! And, I successfully got them loaded with songs of their choice within a few hours. (Multiple ipods on 1 computer....had to do some research on that one.) :) On Saturday Dustin & Doug went their separate ways with different interests. Dustin went skating w/friend, Alex, and Doug went golfing w/friend, Ryan. Then they all came back for spaghetti pizza & cake. You can see the special cake representing their same & different interests.

Then we celebrated Easter w/our traditional egg/clue hunt, baskets of treats, scripture & re-enactment of the death & resurrection of Christ.., plus Good Friday service & Sunday morning breakfast & service at church. (Oh, & the boys also got a ride in Uncle Ric's new convertible Mini-Cooper!)

REFLECTION
Again, I can't help but remember that last year I was too exhausted to even "think" of what to do for their b-days. Plus, Easter was a blur...,so much so that I don't even have it recorded in Doug's written journal. He was very, very sick at this time last year & questioned whether he could make it. It makes us even more thankful for now when we reflect.

UPDATE
I think that Doug's had some break-throughs in his latest struggles w/eating & sleeping. It helps to know that these things are not unexpected after what he went through. This weekend he's had more of an appetite & has been eating better. He's been out having fun & running around w/kids in the neighborhood. We saw yet another "new" doc last week who was very encouraging in saying how well Doug was doing, & he predicted that Doug would get full strength back. He had another MRI on Friday so we're waiting for another "all clear" from Dr. Hajjar at his next appointment.

PRAYER REQUESTS
*still pray for his growth
*for continued rehabilitation in all areas
*for Doug to trust God w/all of his continued challenges of recovering from brain cancer
*that God will provide for all of our needs so that Doug will continue to get the best possible care
*of course...that the cancer will never return

Thanks for checking on us. We appreciate you!!

Debbi for all

Monday, April 10, 2006 7;30am EST

TODAY IS DOUG & DUSTIN'S 16TH BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Doug wants to play golf with a friend for his birthday. (Dustin will go to a skate park) They still like the same kind of cake (chocolate w/vanilla icing) and I'll let Doug post what presents he got for his birthday after he gets them.

Wow, Doug was 14 when he was diagnosed with medulloblastoma. Wow.

Doug got his first haircut in 2 years the other day. He just got it trimmed up a bit. His curls are still a lot more loose than his brothers & his hair is much darker than Dustin's.

I think that Doug is doing better since he was ordered by the doctor to cut back on some activities. He quit baseball, and he has the freedom to cut out of some history classes, but still maintain his studies at home when not there.

If you're reading this please take a moment to wish Doug & Dustin a happy birthday in the guestbook.

Love,

Debbi

Thursday, March 30, 2006 8:31 AM CST

FUN UPDATE
We were blessed again to be invited to the Switchfoot concert as their guests! We got to hang out for some good, unhurried time with the guys before the concert. It was fun to catch up on their lives & to have them see Doug looking healthier. Doug gave them a thank you note saying how much they have meant to him through his journey.

It was only a couple of months after Doug was diagnosed that someone related Doug's story to the band & they decided to call him & invite our family to their concert. That was almost 2 years ago. Their music & their encouragement were key to Doug's "not giving up" when things were so tough.

Last Spring he was supposed to go see them again, but he ended up in the hospital. That was his sickest point. But, Jon Foreman, from the band called him in the hospital & told Doug that the next time they were in town they would see him. Plus, Doug's friends, Ryan & Taylor, came to the hospital in shirts w/the band members names & their instruments & gave Doug a imitation Switchfoot concert. :)

These guys in the band have such great hearts. If you don't know their music check them out. Their words are awesome!

NOT AS FUN UPDATE
Doug's been very, very fatigued lately. He's missed 6 days of school the last 2 weeks. We spoke with the neuro-psycologist & she said that it was not surprising. It is a kind of "accumulative fatigue" from working so hard rehabilitating. But, we have to make some changes to get it turned around. He lost some weight & has not slept well.

We also have a little friend who has relapsed with her cancer. They're in our support group, & it is disheartening news for us all.

REFLECTION
Our friend's relapse, Doug's struggles, & Switchfoot's music all remind me that we have to KEEP living each day in light of eternity.

PRAYER REQUESTS
*for Doug's cycle of fatigue to be broken
*for him to be able to eat & sleep well & to gain weight
*for him to grow
*for our hearts
*for our friends
*thank God with us for the band

Thanks,

Debbi for all

Friday, March 17, 2006 9:46 PM CST

SPRING BREAK
Doug was very ready for this much deserved break for him. He did well again this last nine weeks, but is tired.

We've just hung out close to home, but home is a blessed place to be. For example, one day the boys walked down the street and hit a couple of buckets of balls at the driving range, then road their bikes to the pool.(The weather is perfect!)

They've been playing wiffle ball in the field next to our cul-de-sac, and are always practicing baseball. Plus, Doug's been trying to run in the field a little each day. He makes it more fun by throwing the tennis ball and running to get it with Harper. Harper is really much faster, but he gets lazy sometimes and trots back. lol

Today, we went to Wekiva Springs State Park. Doug made a 4 mile hike! We reflected on the fact that at this time last year he was so weak that he could barely walk at all.

UPDATE
We had a "time out" on Doug's medical appointments so that the rest of us could go ourselves. Ugh. Robby is scheduled for the ENT and may need a tonsillectomy. Dustin needs a second MRI...the last check of his brain to make sure it's all clear because he is Doug's twin. And, I am just getting over a bout with shingles. (No fun, but I hear it could have been worse)


I added some more park pictures. You can see how Doug's hair is long enough to stick out from under his hat. He badly needs a haircut. Hooray!

Let us know is you're reading this. Thanks,

Debbi

Saturday, March 4, 2006 3:02 PM CST

UPDATE
NEWS ABOUT DOUG'S HEARING
The CAT scans showed everything in his ears looked good and they and developing normally, but it's just that the eardrums have thickened due to radiation. (Nerve damage courtesy of chemo, eardrum damage due to radiation) So, the eardrums are hindering his hearing beyond what the nerve damage has done. But, surgical placement of tubes would only give him a 50hance of hearing better and it would likely mean 2 surgeries. His other 2 options were to try a hearing device OR just wait. The reason for waiting is the hope that as Doug grows that his eardrums will grow also and return to normal. So, we're "waiting"...which seems to be a theme on the road to recovery from brain cancer.

So, Doug was a bit disappointed that it could not be "simply fixed". But, on the other hand we know that many medullo patients have a total loss of hearing. So, as always it's a matter of perspective. And, we are so thankful that God's provided a small private school for Doug. It's literally "just what the doctor ordered". Compensation for his hearing loss is much easier there as is EVERYTHING!

EXCITEMENT FOR ROBBY
Robby's had a couple of exciting things lately: First, he got to be an "extra" for a commercial shot at Disney's Animal Kingdom for the new rollercoaster, Everest. Besides the fact that we could see his face on t.v. in the future, he also got to ride Everest 4 times in a row, got a free day in the park, and 2 free passes for the future. Second, he got drafted into the major league for this baseball season. So, he's now one of the youngest on his team, and the games are more exciting & competitive than before. He had his first 2 games last night and got to play every inning and did very well! (His brothers enjoyed watching him!)

MISCELLANEOUS
Doug continues to work out with his school's baseball team when he can in between doctor appointments and PT. He's also trying to get out on the golf course when he can and really enjoys that.

SAME PRAYER REQUEST
*Please keep praying that Doug will grow. Pray that his own hormones will "kick in". The endocrinologist will follow-up with him this summer. They will not give any kind of hormone shots until they are certain that it is needed. Also, there is some unknown risk involved with hormone shots...meaning that they do not want to cause tumor growth.

Thanks for checking on us,

Debbi for all

Tuesday, February 21, 2006 9:40 AM CST

UPDATE
We saw the ENT last week and did not see any fluid in Doug's ears. There is something going on that's causing his eardrums to not move so we're doing a CAT Scan this week of his ears. The doctor was confident that whatever it was he probably could fix it and therefore eventually help Doug to hear a little better. Doug has permanent nerve damage from the cisplatin, but it is in the high frequency ranges and doesn't affect most speech ranges. It is a hearing loss, though, and he needs to be accomodated when needed.

Last week Robby came in all excited and pulled me outside to see something and it was Doug.....rollerblading! For him to be rollerblading his balance has improved significantly. He's been showing me his "battle scars" from some falling, but it didn't seem to be anymore than normal.

Also, we are thrilled that our friend, Jenna, came through 2 brain surgeries last week with no damage to her nerves and is doing very well!

PRAYER REQUESTS
*Please keep praying that Doug will grow. Pray that his own hormones will "kick in". The endocrinologist will follow-up with him this summer. They will not give any kind of hormone shots until they are certain that it is needed. Also, there is some unknown risk involved with hormone shots...meaning that they do not want to cause tumor growth.

*Pray that the ENT will be able to tell what's wrong with Doug's inner ear and that he'll be able to help Doug with minimal intervention (We could be lookin at a surgery here)

Thanks,

Debbi for all

Sunday, February 12, 2006 11:25 PM CST

Hi Everyone,

UPDATE
Let's see. Doug's check-up at Dr. Hajjar's (our oncologist) was uneventful, boring, and glorious..... because it was uneventful, and boring. lol All is well.

But, the audiologist thinks that he has fluid in his ears again and is causing him more problems with his hearing. So, we'll be off to the Ear, Nose, and Throat doc again....just when we thought we were through with that one.

Doug will be starting the "wellness" program at the PT place this week. He'll do a program with the weight machines and equipment on his own with loose supervision. He needs to get stronger...and re-gain muscle that was lost.

He's still been working out with the baseball team when he can make it. He'll start keeping score at the home games this week. I've heard reports that he's looking stronger and stronger out there hitting and throwing.


GLORIOUS FIGHTING
Funny thing: A couple of times last week I heard a scuffle going on in the house somewhere and both times it was Doug and Robby fighting. (No not verbally, but physically) So, my instinct from the last few years has been to look to protect Doug (who was older, but sadly sick and weaker because of it) instead of Robby who is younger. But, this time I see that Doug is holding his own and had Robby pinned down and struggling a couple of times. So, I know, maybe most moms would have broken it up. Well, not me. I'm thrilled that Doug can fight back now! I'm thrilled that Robby can get out some of his pent up anger...all the time Doug was sick he couldn't fight him and had to hold back. All the time Doug was sick he couldn't fight Robby because he was too weak. They were both fine in the end. They ended up being more mad at the dog who was trying to break them up and accidentally scratched them in the process.:)

PLEASE PRAY
*Please pray that the ENT doc will be able to FIX the fluid problem in Doug's ears and that his hearing will end up closer to the normal range...with only high pitch loses. He's got some nerve damage, but it could be worse. Or, just pray for total healing!

*Pray for our caringbridge friend Jenna. She's having more brain surgery this Monday, 2/13/06 & also Friday, 2/17/06/ www3.caringbridge.org/sc/jennawit

*Pray that Doug will gain more weight and start growing more!


Today I started counting the months till the first anniversary of the end of treatment. That will mean check-ups only every 3 months and MRI's every 6! Only 4 more months! Wow!!!

(I promise to work on new pictures this week. We've got to get that Christmas pic changed. It's Valentine's Day!)

Thanks,

Debbi for all

Thursday, January 26, 2006 9:44 EST

REFLECTION
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28

Throughout this last year and a half of our journey with Doug we have been on the look-out for the ways that God would "work for the good" in this "thing" that we were swept into against our own will. We did not choose this path, but I guess what we did do was choose to cling to Him each day. And, clinging to Him was and is very, very good.

But, we're seeing so much other "good" and our hearts are full with thanks to God.

UPDATE
The last couple of months our family has been enjoying watching Dustin's basketball games. It's been nice to rally around him and see him do so well. Rich even joined the volunteer coaching staff of the team for a few games and really had fun.

Baseball...
Doug wants you to know that he's on the varsity baseball team. Last week Doug decided that he'd like to try to play for his small school team. He was a little disappointed to find out that the remnants of his double vision prevented him from doing some drills, and that he wasn't ready for all the running yet. But, the coach is graciously letting Doug workout with the team and be a part as much as he has stamina for. He is very encouraged by it, and we are proud of the initiative that he's taking.

Progress...
We've seen several doctors for check-ups recently,and Doug got good reports from all of them. Everything is slowly improving. His double vision is now in the range of being correctable by glasses if for some reason it stops improving on its own. He's got his depth perception back. His balance is greatly improved and so are his reflexes. The damaged nerves in his body (from chemo) are regenerating. We're not sure about his hearing. We'll check that in a couple of weeks.

David...
Two Sundays ago it was David's birthday. He would have turned 5 that day. So we went with Sarah,Jerry, & Alexa to their church to remember David on that day. That little boy and his family are so special. I can just imagine David running, dancing, playing, smiling, and jumping for joy in heaven. Even if Doug lives to be a ripe old age I think that he will still be looking forward to seeing David there.
We still grieve the loss of him, but are rejoicing that we know that our God is taking care of him.

How Doug looks...
Doug saw John, his physical therapist, (pictured with him in the Worldwide Challenge article) last week. We had not seen him in a few months, and John was astonished at how well Doug looked. He called him a "hippie". His new "curvey" hair is growing longer, and he has about 7 pounds more to go to get back to his pre-cancer weight.

That's all for now. Remember to look in "journal history" for updates dating back to the start of his journey. And, please keep signing the guestbook. We still read it everyday. Thanks for checking on us!

Love,

Debbi for all

Thursday, January 5, 2006 10:21 PM CST

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

Wanted to repeat some news for those of you who haven't read our update between Christmas and now.

Doug's best Christmas present was one he asked God for. Two weeks before Christmas he noticed that his eyes were getting better and better (the double vision was lessening again). So he secretly prayed that for Christmas that God would give him his vision back. Well, he is now seeing well enough to not wear his patch any longer! HOW COOL IS THAT???

See "journal history" for Doug's story from the beginning...May 2004 to the present.

NEW NEWS!

I also wanted you to know that Doug's story has been featured in the January/February issue of Worldwide Challenge Magazine. Here is a link to their website where you can read a shortened version of it.

http://www.wwcmagazine.org/
Click on "current issue", then in features click "Living with Cancer"

Wow, seeing those pictures brings home to us just how well Doug looks at the present compared to the past...and,just how far we've come.

This week Doug went back to Orlando Lutheran Academy (see link below) and is now taking all four main academic classes. He also had his every-3-month MRI's done...both brain and spine. It always feels a bit tense when he has them until we hear Dr. Hajjar say again "all clear". We know that this is a continual thing to trust the Lord for. The cancer can come back, but we are optimistic that it won't....yet, we are not in control. (Please continue to pray for us regarding this.)

Thanks again to those of you who have added us to your family prayer lists and had your kids praying for us at bedtime or dinner...those of you who have said a prayer for Doug whenever you thought of us...etc.

We want to be available to other families who have kids with cancer. (2 Corinthians 1) So, if any of you come to know of others suffering from childhood cancer or life-threatening diseases that could use a connection with someone who has traveled a similar road let us know.

Sincerely,

Debbi for all

Wednesday, December 28, 2005 7:42 PM CST

MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!

We had a very good Christmas....very, very good.

Doug's best Christmas present was one he asked God for. Two weeks before Christmas he noticed that his eyes were getting better and better (the double vision was lessening again). So he secretly prayed that for Christmas that God would give him his vision back. Well, he is now seeing well enough to not wear his patch any longer! HOW COOL IS THAT???

His second favorite gift was a mini game table. He has now become "king of the pool table" winning game after game.

Another exciting thing for Doug was getting his report card in the mail. He got all A's.....first time ever!

But, even with the various gifts that Doug received... what I observed over Christmas is how much more joy Doug got from giving than from receiving. One of his favorite "giving" moments was watching Robby open his Batman Begins Batmobile from him complete with a personalized computer card made by Doug himself.

He wanted to share some fun pictures with you...especially of Harper "Claus". And, Doug also got to ride our neighbors' horse today. :)

What a different Christmas this year.....breathe...sigh. Thank you Jesus.

Debbi for all

Monday, December 19, 2005 9:23 PM CST

Well, I think we're on the mend. Though Robby and Daddy are on anti-biotics Doug made it through the virus without needing them.

He's been wearing his patch less and less. He's seeing single images up close and double images close together far away. This is a huge improvement. He's very hopeful that it will soon get better all the way.

It bugs him that in the picture, though, he still looks a little cross eyed.

The boys all got through the final week of school and we enjoyed some fun things together this weekend: Chronicles of Narnia movie, and Doug playing football and basketball with his dad, brothers, and friends.

Doug finished up the semester earning "student of the month" in Science. Even though he missed almost 2 weeks of school with the virus, for the most part he kept up with his schoolwork at home.

We FINALLY got our picture taken for our Christmas cards...didn't take a lot of time getting it perfect since it had been postponed for so long due to sickness and then...can you believe it...rainy, cold weather.

We'll be home for Christmas with the boys'Grandma Baldwin here from Indiana and Uncle Ric celebrating with us.

Doug has his next MRI's in January.

Thanks for checking,

Debbi for all

Monday, December 12, 2005 2:48 PM CST

Hi Everyone,

For the last couple of weeks everyone in our family has been passing around a nasty cold virus. Rob started it 2 weeks ago and he's still sick. Doug missed 4 days of school last week and is home today too. We don't want to push him to go to school if he's feeling badly at all because it's already tiring for him and we don't want his resistance to get even lower. He's no worse than the rest of us, but it's a real bummer for him to feel badly again. Yet, it's just a normal bad and not a "I'm battling cancer" bad.

So, in between spurts of Christmas shopping and decorating, and going to Dustin's basketball games we've been laying low, reading, and watching too much tv again cause we feel too badly not to.

Nick and Robby did make it to an exciting scheduled event yesterday. They went to Jacksonville for the Colts vs. Jaguars game. Even though they both weren't feeling well they just took medicine and seemed to still have fun.

We're still working on getting our Christmas picture done and our letter out.

Debbi for all

Wednesday, November 30, 2005 8:09 PM CST

Update

We had a nice Thanksgiving. Doug played in the turkey bowl and he's been playing a little basketball with his dad and brothers.

He's had a lot of homework lately with some projects. He works so stinkin hard! Everything is harder for him, takes longer, and takes more energy than for most kids.

I thought that it was interesting when asked what were 5 favorite things to do and he listed one of them as sleeping.

We had our little family time when we talked about what we were thankful for from this last year. We all agreed on a couple of things. One was that Doug is still here with us and that he's doing well. And the other was for our dog, Harper. Harper "ministers" to each one of us in a unique way. It was definitely God's Hand that directed Doug to make his wish for a dog from "Make A Wish".

PLEASE PRAY
Please pray that Doug's eyes (double vision) will heal completely. He's getting tired of waiting...I can tell. Yet he doesn't complain about it.

Thanks,

Debbi for all

Tuesday, November 22, 2005 6:05 PM CST

Hi,

Doug had his monthly check-up at the cancer clinic today. It was a breeze and everything was just fine.

He had to have a simple x-ray done today, so we were treking around the hospital. Doug thought that it was the best thing to be able to walk around that place not feeling badly at all, not feeling sick from the smells or anything. He even stopped in the cafeteria and bought a pumpkin pie! (He used to have a huge aversion to the cafeteria)

The wierdest thing happened. When we got home tonight Doug started having a lot of cramping and twitching.(I think that they can just up the dosage of his meds for this.) The neurologist said that it might get worse before it got all better, but it's so wierd that it happened right after he had a perfect check-up from Dr. Hajjar.

We sure do have a lot to be thankful for this year. We'll be here at home, playing the annual turkey bowl in the morning (father, son football game), and relaxing the rest of the day.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!

Debbi for all

Wednesday, November 16, 2005 9:42 PM CST

Hi,

It's so great to have very little news.

Actually Doug's ear has been bothering him again and we've waited about a week to see if it would clear up. I think we'll have to see the ENT again to get it checked.

Otherwise he's doing well. He's getting
A's and B's in school! He played in the traditional family vs. kids baseball game for the end of Robby's season. Doug got some great hits and he's now running for himself.

We celebrated Nick's birthday last weekend! We had fun going out to eat as a family. Nick's favorite gift was probably the 8 x 10 framed photo of Doug and him hiking in Colorado. (We also found out that Rich's highschool yearbook has a spread about Doug and his journey in it. Rich is one of the contributors this year and when they wanted to do something on cancer he volunteered Doug's story.)

It's nice for me to be able to put more time into the other kids' "stuff" these days. I'm just finishing up a 5 week teaching unit for Robby's co-op. Last year the other moms graciously eliminated my teaching turn.

We're trying to catch up on all the "appointments" for everyone else that were put on hold for more than a year while Doug was ill. Come to think of it, a LOT of things were put on hold. I'm not sure if we'll ever "catch up". Time just keeps running on. I told Nick today that I feel like we were just forced to push ahead with life instead of really being able to absorb and process all we've all been through.

We're trying to reflect and give thanks as the holiday approaches. We have much to be thankful for!

Thanks for checking in,

Debbi for all

P.S. I forgot a rather significant event! We trimmed Doug's hair this week! (See new photos)

Monday, November 7, 2005 8:03 AM CST

Hey,

Wanted everyone to know that Doug's sore throat did not last long at all! Wow! We are very thankful to see that his body is able to fight off viruses like that. His brothers are fine now too.

Doug's still working really hard in school and doing great. He's reading "The Hiding Place", an autobiography of Corrie ten Boom, and he is just fascinated by her family's faith in the midst of incredible suffering.

Lately he's been a little bummed about missing out on a years' worth of growth. Radiation and chemo affect so many, many things. PLEASE PRAY THAT THIS YEAR HE WILL HAVE NORMAL GROWTH. I told him that he may have missed out on physical growth, but he went way beyond his peers in spiritual and emotional growth as he chose to trust God with every day.

It's been nice because the doctor appointments have slowed down for Doug.

Thanks for checking in,

Debbi for all

Tuesday, November 1, 2005 10:47 PM CST

Update

We made it through another week without Nick, but it's good to have him back. He really missed seeing Rich's last football game Friday night, but we got some great pics of Rich in action.

The weather is beautiful here now and we were actually chilly at the games this weekend. Robby also played baseball. He has not made one out this Fall season.

We are considering Doug's strength less and less. He just troops along with whatever is on the schedule and he's doing fine.

BUT, today he began feeling badly with a sore throat and aches. This is the first time he's been sick since the end of his treatment. (Rich and Rob are sick too.) PLEASE PRAY THAT HE WILL RECOVER QUICKLY.

Lately he's been asking me to cut the back of his hair, and we're trying to figure out what to do with it as it keeps growing....a wonderful little puzzle. After chemo,the hair that grows back is a very soft texture....at least that's what Doug's is like.

Last night he went out with Dustin and some friends to trick or treat for awhile. He is such a sweet tooth and loves candy. I think it's because we let him have anything when in treatment as long as it was some kind of food. Sarah, Jerry, and Alexa stopped over to get pictures with the boys. I posted the NEW PICS...Alexa with Darth Vader (Robby)...and with Doug.

Yesterday we were eating out and we met a family who has a 2 year old with medulloblastoma right here in our area. We couldn't believe it. It's supposed to be rare! Maybe it was just God's plan for us to "run into them". We were at a place that we hardly ever eat at.

Well, I'm rambling a bit, but wanted to give a bit of an update for a change.

Thanks for checking in,

Debbi for all

Sunday, October 23, 2005 10:37 PM CDT

An update on our life right now:

We just have our hands full. We're back in the swing of life with 4 active kids, but are weary from last year and still have a lot of appointments and this and that for Doug. But, Doug is doing great. He said this weekend that it's nice to be able to do things for other people and to just be normal....walk and get something in the store and not be exhausted etc. He's continuing to make progress with in PT with strength and balance, and his eyes still seem to be getting gradually better.

He is adjusting to the lessened intensity of attention from Mom and Dad. For example, this weekend was Robby's 10th birthday and party. Plus, it was homecoming for Rich. Rob had friends spend the night and Rich played in the game Friday night and went to the dance Saturday night.

Doug is going through the phase of graduating from "whew, I'm just glad to have made it through alive" to "wow, it's like I lost a whole year of my life and others have moved on"....then back to "well, it could come back and the fear of that" to wanting to get out there again and be more independent. It can be complicated.

And if that's not enough there's another annoying hurricane coming close by tomorrow. I think we'll be fine, though, and we're all glad for the day off of school with no activity.

Nick's been traveling a lot this month, and that's made it harder. Grandma is here, but she's just doing daily life with us, not anything extraordinary.

I'll try and post some pics from this weekend.

That's all for now.

Thanks for checkin in,

Debbi for all

P.S. Doug's ears have gotten a bit better on their own, so we're in a holding pattern. Whew.

Friday, October 14, 2005 10:13 AM CDT

Hi Friends,

The last few days Doug has had some trouble with his ear. He is hearing funny noises in one ear when he hears any kind of sound. It's especially bothersome with loud noises. He also said that it was kinda sore and it's just harder to hear out of that ear. It's quite frightening to him. I'm hoping that it's just a temporary effect of his nerves trying to repair themselves. We'll let you know. Just as quickly as we crossed that ear, nose, and throat doc off the list we'll now put him back on with this new and curious challenge.

Thanks for praying,

Debbi

Monday, October 10, 2005 6:40 PM CDT

Tuesday, October 11, 2005
ALL CLEAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks to everyone who was praying. We needed that support again. Praise God that the MRI results were clear and he had a great check-up! Everything seems to be getting better:)

Monday, October 10, 2005
Hey Everyone,

Doug had his "every 3 months" MRI last Friday. Tuesday we go to Dr. Hajjar's for his "once a month" check-up. We'll get the MRI results. Please pray for us to have calm hearts and to trust in the Lord..., and of course for the results to be clear. (We've felt a little fear creeping in the last couple of days.)

Also, on Friday he found out that the fluid in his ears is totally cleared up! Cross the Ear, Nose, and Throat doc off the list!!! Yeah! This is an answer to prayer.:) Also, Doug said that his eyes seem to be getting even better....objects are closer together than ever when he looks with both eyes!

He played some baseball this weekend on a rough, wet field. And, for the first time he ran the bases himself after his hit. He's making progress...even though he slipped on a wet base and lost his balance and rolled a couple of times he got back up and ran home. (He's been sore, though)

The other thing we spend a lot of time doing lately is listening to the new Switchfoot CD, and we are all loving it. It makes us appreciate their ministry in our lives over and over again.

Also, Doug's Grandma Baldwin is here visiting from Indiana. She'll get to see her great-grandchild, Drew, for the first time. Doug's enjoying helping Grandma get around with her new cane.

Thanks for checking on us and for praying,

Debbi for all

Tuesday, October 4, 2005 6:15 PM CDT

Hey Everyone,

We haven't updated in awhile because things are pretty good and we have less to say. That's really awesome news actually isn't it? Also, we've been having computer problems, ugh.

I have to get a new pic of Doug up on this site(can't until our computer is better...it has all the stuff I need...this is Nick's laptop.) Anyway, you all have to see his hair. He wins....his hair is NOT curly...it's straight to wavy and he's got enough that I told him that he needed to pat it down after he took his hat off today. :)

He's making great progress in PT. He's having normal days of school and homework. He's actually working really hard at schoolwork. His new school is great for him!

Nick and I went to a wedding in Maine this weekend (Nick actually officiated the ceremony) We left the boys and they ALL did great. We had never been to Maine before so we enjoyed our free hours between wedding duties....it was unbelievably beautiful...just gorgeous!

Sitting out on huge rocks that line the coast and looking out at the harbor and lighthouse, sailboats,and lobster boats...I thought to myself how this last year and a half just seems like a dream. And then at the same time I thought that I would never get to this point where my heart is not aching every second of every day for my son. It was very relieving to feel like I had made it....to that point on the rock with the breathtaking view of God's creation.

A funny thing that takes place in our family now is when Doug does or says something a bit "wrong" that every other child would get "in trouble" for. It's so hard to "discipline" him without laughing for joy....because he's well enough to discipline at all. We all start laughing! And how's that for being disciplined when your whole family is laughing....Doug included? For example, "go to your room!"...and we all burst out laughing.

Also, Doug is missing a lot of the extras that he got used to receiving. Today Rob had a hard time at a doctor's appointment and Doug quickly suggested that I "bribe" him with something.....then he quickly hinted to Robby to choose something that would include him. He wanted to get in on the bribe prize! By the way, Doug was very happy to be sitting BESIDE the patient and not BE the patient today at a doctor appointment.

I'll stop for now and update sooner next time.

Thanks for checking. Please praise God with us and keep praying that the cancer will never come back.

Sincerely,

Debbi for all

Sunday, September 18, 2005 8:50 AM CDT

Dear friends, I did fine on the tests this week and I am getting more and more energy.My hair is starting to curle a little so I dont know if it is going to come in straight. Everything is going fine right now. My mom went somewhere by the beach with her college friend so all 5 of us men are here this weekend.

Robby had a baseball game on Saturday and it was pretty fun.

from:DougDeCola

Saturday, September 10, 2005 5:43 PM CDT

Dear friends, whats up, I doing fine as usual and having fun at school. Only the fun parts though, I would appriciate it that you guys pray for me this week.I have a test in algebra,a test in science and in grammer,I think it would help me a lot.To my friends from every where I would appreciate it if you wrote something to me.I would like that a lot.

Tomorow I am going over to my uncles house to move him into his new house. I am getting stronger through therapy and getting back to playing some sports on a reeguler basis.Not in a league or anything but playing catch with my dad and playing golf.

I hope I have a good week this week with my tests.
from:DougDeCola

Monday, September 5, 2005 3:40 PM CDT

UPDATE
FRIDAY

The weekend has been full. Friday I took Rob to the doc for to check his ankle; he sprained it jumping off a trampoline. Then my brother and cousin stopped by from out-of-town, but we didn't get to see them very long because Rich had a football game. So, Doug went to another long game that night.

SATURDAY

Then, Saturday we spent the whole day getting ready for Rich's belated 17th birthday party. He had a great time with his friends. Doug and Robby worked hard to help with the party. Life at our home has been difficult for so long. We were so glad to be able to give him a fun party! HE'S SOOO OLD!!!!

DAVID'S MEMORIAL

Sunday was David's memorial service. It was beautiful. Thanks for praying for us. Nick gave a good message, and Doug, by faith, stepped up to that microphone during open reflection time and shared about his memories of David. He did it in between choking back the tears (only moments before we were all sobbing), and we were so proud of him for doing it. He wanted to honor his friend, and it was precious. Once again we could sense Emmanuel (God with us) in spirit.

Please pray for our dear friends, Sarah, Jerry, and Alexa as they try to begin a life without their precious son, David. Our hearts are so filled up with compassion for them.

During this time we have been in close contact with the rest of our cancer support group, most of them were at David's memorial. I am reminded of what a sweet blessing that group is to us and am so thankful for the way that God provides for us.

Sincerely,

Debbi for all

P.S. There's a few new pics

Friday, September 2, 2005 9:11 AM CDT

UPDATE
I guess we should update. This week has seemed very long. We are greiving over David's death. But, for Nick and I a lot of that energy has gone into helping Sarah and Jerry in any way that we can.

Helping has turned out to be planning the memorial service. Nick will be the giving the message there (since he is ordained and can). We offered this ,by faith, because we know that if we were in the same situation that we would prefer to have someone who knows and loves our child to speak.

We are seeing God in our midst again....admidst great suffering again. His tender loving care for Sarah, Jerry, and Alexa is evident. He has answered so many prayers-- prayers for comfort, answers, details of the memorial, 2 local churches reaching out and offering themselves to help when they do not even know the family.

Doug is sad, but doing very well I think. It is encouraging to see him getting stronger. PT went well this week. He's working hard at school, and just today he told us that his eyes seem to be improving more--seeing only "one" image more of the time instead of two (w/out the patch).

REFLECTION

In a way I think that Doug is very close to heaven. Here a close little friend goes to heaven. We have been thinking about heaven all year. His suffering drives him to desire heaven. And, God has worked in His heart to want make his desire to be with Him. (It's kinda like having your close friends and family move to another country and you wanting to be there too, but you can't just yet. But, your heart is there.) The thing about the "country" of heaven is that that is where our true "home" is anyway. No wonder we long to go there. "...our citizenship is in heaven." Phil. 3:20

Another thing that God has done is to teach Doug about His will and about love. It was clear to us that the Lord led Doug and us into David's life. To chose to love David and be loved by David gave Doug such joy,.....and now such pain. But,what is that saying? "Better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all." Doug (and we) are so thankful that God gave him David even for a short while.

Deep treasures for a 15 year old boy. (There are 3 things that are eternal--God, His Word, and His people.) Precious treasures for us as well.,...treasures that we can "take with us".

Debbi for all

P.S. David's Memorial Service is at Parkway Baptist Church on Lake Underhill, Sunday, Sept. 4, 4pm-6pm

Friday, August 26, 2005 1:20pm EST

SAD NEWS

This is very hard to write, but Doug wanted me to. Doug's very special friend, David Norris, (age 4) died last night. We are so sad and are weeping at the loss of this precious boy. We know the truth that David is with Jesus in heaven, but it is very painful to think that we won't be seeing David here on earth again.

Doug met David about half-way through Doug's treatment. They had the same oncologist, both had caringbridge sites and David's parents joined our little support group. David had a different kind of cancer, neuroblastoma, than Doug. We knew from the beginning that David would have a hard road. But, the Lord seemed to knit Doug and David's hearts together and formed a supportive friendship even though they were far apart in age.

One of the things that Doug said today after learning of David's death is that he was so sad that he couldn't tell David how much he means to him. So, I encouraged him to write a letter to David because we can share it with Sarah, Jerry, and Alexa, his family, and the other people who cared about him.

A LETTER TO DAVID FROM DOUG

Dear David,

I wanted to tell you that I really started caring for you the first time we met. Caring so much about someone so quickly was new to me and had never happened before.

Remember that day in the clinic when we were getting our treatment and I threw-up? I was amazed at how you came over & comforted me. You patted me on the back and said, "Are you okay?", and you being only 4! I really thought that you understood how I felt & you showed that to me.

Remember that day when my dad & I came to see you in the hospital after my clinic appointment? I was feeling better, but you were sleeping. We waited for you about 20 minutes and then I went over and started rubbing your head. When you woke up & saw me you gave me the biggest smile.

I felt so bad for you that day when you were at my house playing & you cried because you didn't want to leave. I had started feeling kinda yucky that day after awhile. That's the time that you came up behind me and whispered, "I love you, Doug."

I wish you were down here so I could give you a hug and play with you. I've never cared for anybody the way I cared for you. I love you so much. I've never loved anybody that I'd just met so fast.

I wish I could be up there with you. I've never felt this sad before.

I love you,

Doug

David's website: www.caringbridge.org/fl/davidjourneynorris

Sunday, August 21, 2005 2:52 PM CDT

Doug went back to school on Thursday and also to the neurologist. Things are improving. His neuropathy is lessening slightly, but he needs to remain on his meds because the doctor said that as the nerves begin to repair themselves that we can expect it to be somewhat painful without the meds. He also went with us to our cancer support group meeting at the Ronald MacDonald House. He got to hang out with some of the kids and their siblings and also show everyone his port. (Look in photos for the port pic also)

This Friday Doug made it through not only school, but all of Rich's football game! That's an amazing leap for him in energy and endurance. He went to the pool yesterday and was in longer than ever he'd been in for a year.

We are still debating over whether the hair coming in is straight or curly. I say it's starting to curl. Doug says it's straight.

I added a new picture in photos. It's of all the boys and Harper on Rich's birthday. You can see his hair a little bit in the picture.

Please pray that his incision will heal well and for no infection. Please pray that his cancer will never come back.

Thanks,

Debbi for all

P.S. Doug's friend David is still in very critical condition at the hospital in NYC. Our hearts are there battling with them in prayer.

Wednesday, August 17, 2005 7:31 PM CDT

UPDATE
HAPPY BIRTHDAY RICH!!!!! (Doug's big brother is now 17!!!)

DOUG'S "DEPORTATION" (PORT REMOVAL SURGERY) STORY

On Tuesday, August 16, we entered the "hospital zone" at 9am and experienced again.......doo doo doo doo doo doo doo doo..."hospital time". That means that everything takes place v.e.r.y s.l.o.w.l.y. Doug was scheduled for surgery at 11am and he finally got started at 1:30pm. This was even after his oh- -so-fun pediatric surgeon, Dr. Chaet, sat and chatted and joked with us for a long time, fought hard to get Doug into the op room sooner, and made all the pre-op nurse sargents buzzingly mad because he was trying to do something "outside the rules" of the pre-op zone. lol We really were waiting patiently, but Doug was getting weaker and hungrier by the minute.

Then, we experienced the surgery waiting room again...where they're mostly very nice, but it is also very tense because NOW you have to deal with the recovery room sargents. Our experience is that miscommunication flies are buzzing all about this area.

It was a funny scene when Dr. Chaet comes hopping in presenting us with none other than Doug's port sealed and labeled in a lab container. We congratulated him and he said with a sly grin on his face ,"thank you, I was sweating bullets...it was tough."

It drew some curious onlookers as we were viewing the "miniature spaceship" in a jar. Doug was very proud when we presented it to him! Many a nurse wanted a look at it also. One even suggested that we put it under his pillow for the "port fairy". Hmmmm, wonder what the going rate is from the "port fairy" these days? (We'll take suggestions!)

When we finally got home that evening Doug was tired, sore, and very hungry, but doing very well. Today, he stayed home from school, slept, took tylenol with codiene, and wondered why his whole arm was so very sore. Probably because he had a foreign object in his body/muscle for 14 months, and they cut open his body, messed with the muscle and took it out. Don't you think?

And that's the end of the "deportation" ....as my friend, Pat, calls it. We'll post the surgery pics a.s.a.p.

Thank you for praying! We were seriously very relieved not to have anymore complications!

Debbi for all

Saturday, August 13, 2005 12:43 AM CDT

P.S. to the 8-13 update...Sun. 8-14...Doug's big brother, Rich, (3 days until he's 17) has some nasty virus (fever,weak, aches etc). Please pray that he'll get better quickly, and also that Doug will not get it. (His surgery is Tuesday)

UPDATE
Doug did pretty well at school this week. He's going for 3 periods and lunch. He and Dustin really like their new school, Orlando Lutheran Academy. Everyone has been very encouraging and supportive.

We have a very uneventful weekend which is just fine!

This coming Tuesday, Aug. 16, Doug will have surgery to remove his port. It's supposed to be a very simple procedure. But, we still need prayer. Over a year ago when he had it surgically inserted it was supposed to be easy also. And, that's when his lung was accidentally punctured. So, please pray that ALL will go well with NO complications!

I'm posting some better pictures from our time in Colorado!

Thanks for checking and praying,

Debbi for all

Tuesday, August 9, 2005 9:27 PM CDT

UPDATE
So, those of you who prayed for Doug and the whole school thing....thank you so so much! The school staff are being really, really supportive and encouraging. We thought they would be, but it's hard to trust after we've had to fight so hard for every little thing in the huge public schools. So, we and the boys are adjusting.

Doug had his check-up at the cancer clinic today. Nick said that Doug was bouncing off the walls there. I'm sure it's because he feels so comfortable there and is so happy to be feeling well. He didn't even have to get his port accessed, just a finger prick for blood counts. So, since he's scheduled to get the port removed next week that means NO MORE ACCESSING IT EVER AGAIN!

Some of his counts were a bit off, but I guess they said it's not unusual. They're sending us to yet another doctor....this time an endocrinologist to get things checked out. Hearing that he'd be going to another doctor was not a popular thing with Doug. This is more of the "fall out" from all of his treatment.

Rich has started school now, but Rob and I are waiting for his books to arrive before he can start. He's enjoying his "last few days" with his other homeschooled buddies before buckling down.

A SPECIAL THANKS

Tricia, at Dr. Hajjar's office is leaving this week. I just want to say, Tricia, if you're reading this...thank you , thank you, thank you. It is people like you who make this whole awful experience of having a child with cancer more bearable. I always appreciated your cheerful voice, your beautiful smile, and your encouraging and supportive attitude. We will miss you!

Debbi for all

Sunday, August 7, 2005 6:11 PM CDT

UPDATE
We're doing o.k., but definitely weary. It was hard to start with such a fast pace right away when we returned. You know what it's like to try and get the kids ready for school and especially when it's a new one.

Well, Doug and Dustin had 3 days of school last week. For the most part they were positive about it, but Doug got really, really tired. We need to meet with the school on Monday to talk about what will be required of him and what modifications we can expect. Right now, they are asking too much. His main focus needs to be on rehab and he cannot be too tired to do PT, go to appointments, and to eat. He really DOES want to go to the new school. So, will you please pray that we will be able to get it worked out for Doug's best???

ABOUT DAVID (Doug's 4 yr. old friend with neuroblastoma who's had complications after surgery in NYC)

Sarah, David's mom, called today. There's not much change in David's condition. He's still in ICU and is critical, but stable. It's been a long time that he's needed to be on the ventilator. Please pray for a miracle for David.

Doug said that it must be so hard to see David like this because he's used to seeing David running around being fun and crazy and smiling. We wish that we could be there with them. Our hearts are there.

Thanks for checking in and for praying,

Debbi for all

Monday, August 1, 2005 9:53 PM CDT

UPDATE
We are getting Doug (and Dustin) ready to attend a new school-a small private one. The boys went to an orientation today. They only have 22 in the whole 8th grade. We're hoping that the small numbers and dedicated teachers will give them the extra help that they need. School begins this Wednesday.

(Please pray for Doug. He's attempting to attend 3 classes and do 2 more at home. That's a lot for him right now. Pray that it will all work out and he will feel successful.)

We had an appointment with Dr. Chaet, the surgeon, today. His personality is definitely NOT the stereotypical surgeon one. He's the most amiable and fun doctor we've ever known! Doug is quite a bit more outgoing than he was pre-brain tumor, so he was having a good time asking questions and joking around with the doc. Doug was reminiscing about the last time he had been in Dr. Chaet's office an
d how terrified he had been. He said, "Can you believe I was that scared, mom"? He's just learned to trust the Lord and his faith muscles are "buff"...that's all! lol Removal of his port is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 16.

REFLECTION

I had a funny feeling today. It was that slightly uncomfortable feeling of being in an unfamiliar setting with unfamiliar people (at the new school) and wishing that I was somewhere familiar. Well, I started talking to a parent who is a nurse and had been in pediatric oncology at one time. And, then I realized that talking about cancer and cancer kids and the hospital was more comfortable and thinking of "10 tower" (where he got chemo) was a familiar place! Whoa. Now that's pretty wild.

A friend of mine wondered if trying to re-enter regular life (whatever that is) is like returning from war. He's right. And, I think I feel a bit shell shocked still. I still need to process the war, and I'm hanging around a bunch of civilians.

Thanks for your continued prayers,

Debbi for all

Saturday, July 30, 2005 10:28pm EST

UPDATE @ Doug's eyes

We thought we were going to the eye doc yesterday to schedule surgery for the repair of Doug's double vision. But, Doug told him that he thought it was getting better, and after testing him the doc said, "You're right, it is getting better!" So, we are waiting again because Doug's brain is repairing itself. If they do surgery now they may not get it right. So, we just need to pray that the brain and it's Creator will work a little more quickly so that Doug would not have to put up with this double vision thing for much longer.

Friday, July 29, 2005 12:09EST
We are HOME FROM COLORADO!!!!!!

Just wanted to let you know that we made it safely home and are sooooo thankful for all the answered prayers!!! Doug felt well for the whole trip....even at 12,000 feet above sea level up in the Rocky Mountains! He has so much more energy...more than in 14 months.

On Wednesday morning Doug got to give a testimony at the Student Venture Getaway meeting about his cancer and how he learned to trust God through all the pain and fears of these many long months. There were hundreds of teens there and Doug was very nervous. He did it by faith because he believes that God wanted him to. His big bro, Rich, stayed up on stage and helped him and they did a great job.


We have so many awesome pictures I don't know which ones to start with. We'll post them soon!

Thanks so much for all your prayers,

Debbi for all

Friday, July 22, 2005 11:35 PM CDT

Monday, July 25, 2005
Yesterday we went almost to the top of Trail Ridge Road in the Rockies and climbed a short trail to reach the snow! We have great pictures of the kids throwing snowballs in their shorts!

Wanted to let our friends who know and love David Norris that I did talk to Sarah yesterday. It is one day at a time. I can tell that God is giving her His grace...she is pretty calm, but the reality of the situation is that David is still critical and he really needs our continuous prayers. Pray that he will be able to wean off of the ventilator and that his body will heal quickly. She says that she could use care packages because everything in NYC is soooo expensive as you may guess. She needs practical supplies. The address for the hospital is on their website: www.caringbridge.org/fl/davidjourneynorris

Thanks,

Debbi

UPDATE
Well, yesterday was one day that will be etched in our memory forever probably. We went up in the Rocky Mountains and did a 1 mile hike up a trail....that our family has been traditionally hiking for 17 years...even before Doug was born. But, this time it was with Doug...only 1 month from his last chemo treatment. We didn't know if we could make it. It's uphill (of course) and rocky in places (of course), but we were determined to try.

Nick pushed Doug in the wheelchair a big part of the way! Then, Doug got out and walked some of the way! Then, when it got too steep and rockie Nick carried him on his back...to the summit! We made it! He made it!!! He did a victory dance :) We praised the Lord and reflected on how that hike was a picture of Doug's journey this last 14 months.

Sometimes he walked himself,...sometimes he leaned on us..., sometimes he had to be pushed...and sometimes he had to be carried. But, the whole journey was in the presence of God. The summit was fantastic....and beautiful!

He walked much of the way down.

And, then he went to a carnival that night and was pushed all around by his buddies here. What a day!

So, that's us..., but I do want anyone who is checking to also know that Doug's friend, David, (4 years old) who just had surgery to remove his tumor is having some complications and needs our prayers. Doug's heart is knit to David's. That's all I need to say.

Thanks for checking and please keep praying for God's protection for Doug and for complete healing.

Sincerely,

Debbi for all

Wednesday, July 20, 2005 8:48 PM CDT

UPDATE
Well, Doug wants everyone to know that he's doing awesome...better than ever in the last 14 months! One of the reasons is that all of his staff kid friends are just "awesome" and in his words "they don't care if he's had cancer" and they're treating him just the same, but also helping him get around....they've been pushing him all over the campus where we're at in the wheelchair. Exactly what we had pictured for him.....to have a good time. He's even planning to join them in their highschool planned activities and will be able to hear motivational speakers and a band etc.

Every time I ask if he's tired he says "no". Why am I tired and he's not??? So far the altitude is not bothering him at all, and he did great on the plane. I've had to limit some of his activites to make sure he gets his rest and doesn't get sick.

This is the break that we needed and dreamed of having. We have so many supportive friends that we're enjoying and catching up with.

We're hoping to get up into the mountains soon. And the weather is beautiful!!!

Also, we found out today that Doug's little buddy, David, has had a successful surgery in New York to remove his tumor. (www.caringbridge.org/fl/davidjourneynorris) David is the one in the homepage picture.

Please continue to pray that Doug will not get any kind of illness. Thanks for checking on us!!!!!

Thanking the Lord for His goodness to us,

Debbi for all

Thursday, July 14, 2005

Thursday, July 14, 2005
We had our little END OF CHEMO party at Dr. Hajjar's office today. They had Doug's favorites foods: spicey chicken wings, barbeque chips, and Mountain Dew, with chocolate cake!!! Some of his new cancer kid buddies came too: Danny and mom, David & family. Our whole family celebrated with the office staff. Doug's counts are good, he gained another 2 1/2 pounds and he's excited to get out to Colorado!!!!

If you will please pray for Doug to keep getting stronger,to feel good, to not get any kind of bug, and to have a great time when he's away from everything.

Thanks and thank God with us!

Monday, July 11, 2005
Hi everyone this is Doug, I would like to share a little piece of my book that I have been reading. I think it sums up my whole year.
"WHEN YOU CAN'T COME BACK"
By Dave & Jan Dravecky
"It seems to me that the journey of faith is not such an easy map to follow. It is a one-step-at-a-time kind of experience. When God called Abraham to leave his hometown and follow him, Abraham was givin no map,no set of directions. He didn't even know his destination.God just said, "Get up and go to a land that I will show you." Abraham was expected to go where God led him, a step at a time, a day at a time. There where no guarantees that the journey would be easy.He had a lot of heartache along the way,his share of danger,and the painfull introspection of living with postponed hopes. Yet he is remembered of a man of faith. God doesn't promise us a life of full of mountaintop experiences. There will be valleys to go through,too. Dark valleys. Disorienting valleys.Valleys of depression and despair.What he promises is not a road map that will give us a detour around those valleys,but he will walk through those valleys with us. When we emerge from those experiences,we look back and realize that that is where the growth is. It isn't on the mountaintops,above the timberline;it's in the valleys.

Friday, July 8, 2005

Friday, July 8, 2005

Doug's MRI results are good....all clear!! His counts are good and Dr. Hajjar said that he can get his port removed whenever we're ready. All the docs were pleased with is progress. Doug was very proud that he gained 3 pounds in a week! (1 new pic in photos)

Wednesday, July 6, 2005
Hi everyone,

Doug is doing so great! He is almost obsessed with eating because for the first time in what seems forever he eats and does not get nauseas. He's just a bit impatient about putting pounds back on....he wants his "good eating" to show results NOW! He was so motivated at PT today because he knows that now he can work on getting stronger and stronger.

We are so encouraged about so many things! We are preparing to go to Colorado and our whole family is really looking forward to it!!

This week we're having fun watching Robby play in the Little League All Star tournament. Rob got those "first- tournament ever- played- jitters" out last night at the first game when he had a great attitude and played really well.:) Doug is very proud of his little brother and loving being around the ball park every night.

Tomorrow we go to the cancer center for a brain tumor clinic appointment: all his doctors will be there together and will review his case and how he's doing.

Thank you, thank you, thank you for praying and giving to us! We will keep you updated on Doug's recovery process! We still have a lot ahead of us and will still need your support and prayer, but it seems like the really intense part has passed!

Sincerely,

Debbi for all

Saturday, July 3, 2005

UPDATE
Doug's been feeling really well! He's had energy to hang out with a friend in the neighborhood and go swimming yesterday, to hang out at the town center with Dustin and Jordan today, and to celebrate with sparklers tonight! He ate 11 spicey chicken wings (his favorite) tonight. :)

Friday, July 1, 2005
I wanted to quickly update and report what a great day Doug and I had today. At his appointment at the cancer clinic we found out that his counts are stable and seemingly on the rise! (Again the docs had expected him to need a transfusion at this point)

The first part of his MRI was done today. Doug and I actually made a fun day of it. Our appointment was scheduled for 11:45am...., but they were running behind (of course) and we were not done until after 2pm. But, we just laughed at the wait and when they gave us cafeteria vouchers...we went and bought drinks and a lot, a lot of candy; because of course Doug does not eat hospital food! That was settled months ago. But, I had brought some delicious sandwiches from home and we had our own picnic. When we finally did have the MRI, I couldn't believe it...Doug was joking around with the technician. (This is my child who was sweating bullets at the mention of an MRI last year...., and who was too reserved to really speak much with anyone giving him care.)

We then proceeded to the other hospital medical plaza to get his audiogram. (hearing test) The results showed that though Doug had a bit more hearing loss, it was still mostly in the very high pitches. The concern is with the fact that he has fluid behind his eardrum and it's not vibrating correctly, which causes some other hearing problems. So, we will follow-up with an ear, nose, and throat specialist.

Doug crossed off another month on his countdown calendar that I made for him....and he wrote "yeah, baby!" across the month of June.

Thank you so much for checking on us. Will you please continue to pray that the Lord protects him from any infections or complications that would slow his recovery? He still has things to face, but hopefully only things that will help make him feel better and better.

Have a happy Independence Day weekend! (new pics in "view photos"

Debbi for all

Monday, June 27, 2005 6:39 PM CDT

Doug had great news from his re-check today. His white cells are up and his counts were stable! The doctor was expecting a big dip by now. Doug's been feeling pretty good. He needs to take in more calories, but the nausea has not been much of a problem so far this time.

He was soooo happy that "he can go more places now". He is on an antibiotic for this little cold virus that he's had, but it's not making him feel badly and I think they gave it to be cautious.

We walked over to the hospital today and saw his lil buddy, David. It was so nice to see him and we're praying that he'll feel better and get home soon!

On Saturday we were all watching Robby's All-Star baseball practice, and while he was catching he fell down in pain. Turns out the bat had hit his elbow on the follow through. He was in so much pain for awhile that we were considering an x-ray. One of the parents (who I'd just met from this new team) innocently asked if we have insurance. Do we have insurance?! I had to chuckle.:) I don't think that those parents had any idea that taking Rob for an x-ray at urgent care was noooooooooo biggie......no big deal at all...compared to EVERYTHING these last 14 months. Ended up that Robby was fine.

Doug still has lots of different appointments scheduled. His MRI's are scheduled for this Friday and next Tuesday. His counts get re-checked Friday also.

Please keep praying that he will recover fully, quickly from this round and stay healthy so that we can attend our staff conference in CO as a family.

Thank you so much!

Debbi for all

Sunday, June 26, 2005 6:38pm

Sunday, 6.26.05
Doug is hanging in there. He is neutropenic (0.8 white cells) so we have to be careful with him. He's getting bored with what he cannot do and is appreciative for the littlest outings that we will allow. He gets his counts re-checked tomorrow. I think the docs are anticipating a possible transfusion, but Doug hasn't showed any signs of needing one. He's been a bit nauseas today, so please pray that it will not continue. Please, please pray that he will recover quickly from this last round so that we can attend our staff conference as a family in Colorado! Thanks! (see new photo & fun story in "view photos")

Tuesday, June 21, 2005
Dear friends,

I am doing really great right now and I am soooo happy that I dont have to get anymore chemo. When I start feeling really better I want to play baseball again ''for real'' and do the things I used to be able to do. The other day I was thinking of when I had to go in for another round......... but then I said I don't have to get chemo ever ever again and I was sooooooo happy to think I am done is chilling to think. All through my cycles I never thought that the last day of chemo would arrive. And now that its here and gone........... is amazing,exciting,a sigh of relief,weight off my shoulders,and I'm glad that its over.


The day of my last chemo, I must say this to everyone...... All all all my friends, family, people I dont know, people who have come along side of me and said YOU CAN MAKE IT DOUG I SAY THANK YOU!!!!!!! THANK YOU!!!!!!! THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I also would like to share something with my family..... Rich.... Thanks for being there during surgery and all through this year Thank you sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo sooooooo much. I hope in the future we can have some even better times like we did when mom and dad were away.
Dustin.......... You too I want to have fun times again like we used to have and try to become someone you want to talk to again.......... THANK YOU SOOOOOOOOOO MUCH THIS YEAR.......... Robby I would like to say thank you for helping every time I needed something,rolling me in the wheel chair when you didn't want to, got drinks for me when I needed it, got food and anything I wanted when I wasn't strong enough to get them myself. THANK YOU SOOOOOOOOOOO SOOOOOOOOO MUCH. DAD........... I dont think I would have made it without you going through this with me, thank you for loving me and supporting me, and pushing me to get stronger and stronger,and sleeping with me in the hospital, every single time. THANK YOU SOOOOOOOOOOO SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO MUCH. Mom......................... Every day.... being here with me day in and day out, through good times and through bad times, mom I can't express how thankful I am to have a mom as caring as you. THANK YOU SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO MUCH. I DON'T THINK I COULD HAVE A BETTER FAMILY THAN THE ONES I HAVE NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I couldnt have better parents to guide me through this journey, for that matter I couldn't have better brothers either to hold on or remember how I was before. They have been the ones to go through this JOURNEY WITH ME AND I WOULDN'T HAVE IT ANY OTHER WAY.


GUYS.......................... I'M DONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Doug DeCola

Sunday, June 19, 2005 4:35pm EST

Sun. 6-19
Wow! We are having an incredible day! Doug got home from the hospital shortly after noon and was doing really well, so we were able to take Nick out for lunch for Father's Day! Doug is really happy right now :) You can tell that a big weight has been taken off his shoulders. (Please keep praying...we need it for the days to come, but also please rejoice with us, and thanks for checking in!)

Sat. 6-18
Doug's doing well so far and we had a very small celebration in his hospital room tonight. Please, please keep praying. He should be home tomorrow, but the chemo usually hits a few days after!
Thanks!

Thursday night, 6-16-05
Nick and I were able to "get away" alone for a few days to the beach this week! Doug was feeling pretty well, and Dustin went to FCA camp in NC. Rob stayed with a friend. Rich got his driver's license, and we let Rich and Doug stay at home together! It was good for everyone. :)(the calm before the next storm) We came home and enjoyed our parent support group meeting with other families with kids who have cancer tonight. (See new pics)

Tomorrow he gets his cytoxan...appointment is at 11:30am, then he gets admitted to the hospital. This is the "big gun" that has affected him greatly in the past. But, the last time he had it so many people were praying that we really believe that it went much better because of that. Soooo, PLEASE, PLEASE PRAY that it will go well, that he'll recover quickly, that he won't get sick, and for his spirits....that he'll be able to rejoice that this is the end and finish this race continuing to trust in Jesus!

Thanks!

Debbi

Tuesday, 6-14-05
Dear friends, I am feeling great right now in my treatment and eating fine. I am geting excited for my chemo to be over and start doing the things I want to do. The only thing that is bothering me right now is right now when ime doing sooo so good and I have to be dragged down again. ''But guess what''
MY LAST CHEMO IS COMING UP. I am starting to get excited!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Please pray that this one will be good

Thursday, June 9, 2005 9:15 PM CDT

UPDATE and REFLECTION

This week has been nice because we've only had one doctor appointment! Doug's counts were o.k. this week. He's felt better, but is weaker at this point in his cycle than any other one before. He will get in 2 PT appointments this week and hopefully a couple next week before he goes in the hospital again. He is still struggling to find food that he can tolerate and he is tired and angry about this struggle.

As he does not have to fight as many physical battles at this point in his cycle all of the emotional battles are now cropping up. He has been more angry lately. We think this is really good. We encourage him to be angry when the feelings come. Cancer and its devastating effects is definitely something to be angry about. Doug is by nature very shy and polite and so his anger doesn't just flow out like some personalities. It gets bottled up. It's kind of nice to "learn" from the younger kids with cancer who don't care what anyone thinks and who just say or act out what they feel.

One of the very frustrating effects for Doug recently is that the vincristine has caused him to have peripheral neuropathy, and one of the worse things is that he now cannot bend or squeeze or grip with his right index finger. This affects such things like throwing, writing, opening things, and more. Dr. Hajjar finally said "no more vincristine"! (He was only scheduled for 2 more doses) The doctors predict that the neuropathy will eventually reverse, but EVERYTHING is so uncertain. And THAT is maddening!

Beyond these things for Doug is the fact that he sees his new friends, most all of them many years younger, and what they're facing.....days and days of chemo, surgeries, intrusive and painful tests, all kinds of crazy side effects, radiation, fevers, extra hospitalizations etc....fighting for life! His heart goes out to them.

There is much more that goes unspoken in this journal...so much more that I could go on and on. One thing that continues to stand out is how Doug continues to express his gratitude towards Nick and I. Maybe gratitude towards parents as a teen is one of the good side effects of having cancer. In one conversation Doug and I were having I told him that he is in the advanced classes of faith...that the tuition for these classes is very costly, but that he is receiving treasures of spiritual wisdom and discernment way way beyond his earthly years.

I will stop there. Friday, June 17 will be his last chemo!!!!!

If you got to the end of this rambling, then thanks for indulging me in my reflections. We love hearing from you over and over again,

Debbi for Doug and all

P.S. I posted a letter that I wrote to many friends and supporters about our journey and you can find it in "journal history" if you haven't already read it.

Sunday, June 5, 2005 1:29 PM CDT

This is a letter that went out to many friends and supporters. Thought I'd share it with you too.

REFLECTIONS

I think that there are two ways to hope when a person has a terrible disease. They can hope to get better, to be healed, and look forward to the end of the pain here on earth & a longer life here. Or they can look forward to the ultimate healing, to be with the Healer, to enter eternity, to go Home. Though our desire is for Doug to be cancer free and suffering free, we are choosing to put our hope in eternity....to set our eyes on eternity with Christ.

A friend of mine told me that some people might be surprised that we’re thinking about death so much. After all, isn’t Doug’s prognosis good? Well, yes, but there is not a 100uarantee. Early on someone wisely said that there are no percentages for your individual child...it’s all or nothing for you. It just reminds us of the truth that none of us has a guarantee that we won’t die tomorrow. It sets our eyes on eternity with Christ.

Ask my sixteen year old son, Rich, and his friends. They had a friend, Staci, die suddenly a few months ago. One day she was a beautiful 16 year old, healthy, student athlete and the next she was gone. The good news is that she had her eyes focused on eternity with Christ.

Doug went with me to Staci’s memorial service. Those who loved her grieved deeply, but not without hope. A year ago Staci made a decision to put her faith in Christ, had developed a sincere love for Christ and had expressed her deep desire to be with Him in heaven. After her death many other people chose to place their faith in Christ.

After the service Doug’s question to me was not “why do we have to die”, but “why then do we have to live?” His suffering has forced his eyes towards Home and eternity too. It has forced his faith to leave his head and solidify in his heart. Before he believed in God, and now he knows God and is looking toward His kingdom where “there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain,...” (Rev.21)

So my answer to his question was basically that the Lord ...”is patient with (us), not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” And as Paul says, “I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that...Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death. For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” (Phil 1)

So as Staci exalted Christ by her death we can exalt Christ by our life especially in choosing to continue to have faith in Him even in our suffering.

I will be honest. This journey is profoundly difficult. Much of the time we are just clinging to God by faith. At times we feel ourselves slipping and barely hanging on. But, we are trying to...”not look at what we can see right now, the troubles all around us, but we look forward to the joys in heaven which we have not yet seen. The troubles will soon be over, but the joys to come will last forever.” (TLB 2 Cor. 4:18)

Thank you for your part in our journey!

Believing with you,

Debbi for all

Friday, June 3, 2005 9:53 AM CDT

Dear friends,

The good news today is that I am allowed to eat solid foods again. Now I need to start stuffing my face and start gaining weight for my next cycle. I think my friend David is coming over here today so I am pretty excited about that. Today I feel better than I did when I had a very weird virus this whole week, but I am fine now. I feel like I am very weak because I also haven't been able to eat all week. Thank you everybody who's praying for me, I think I will really really need it next cycle.
I am almost there

From:Doug DeCola

P.S. From Debbi: If you live in East Orlando I heard that they are having a blood drive and will be at Walgreens for the next 3 weeks. If you can give blood that would be great. I've been really thankful lately for all the people that have given blood so that Doug could have his many transfusions.

Wednesday, June 1, 2005 11:22 AM CDT

UPDATE
Good news! Doug's counts were normal yesterday:) Bad news! Doug's feeling terrible with flu-like symptoms and it's a bit of a mystery. Maybe a virus? He got some IV fluids at the clinic. Side effects of all the drugs he's taking? Who knows? We're waiting it out and praying that it will go away soon and he'll feel good and strong and have a break from everything!

Please pray for Doug...it's so sad to feel so poorly for so long and to feel like you're causing pain for your family. And please continue to pray for all of us. It's very hard to continue to have life revolve around how your brother is feeling and for Mom and Dad to have to remain so focused on that. And as parents to continuously have to try and figure out what's wrong and how can we help and should we call the doctors, or what medicine to give, or what food will be good and running out again to pick up yet another med or food craving or meal for the rest of the family cause there's no food in the house or it's not the right food etc. And that's just a small glimpse of it.

On a brighter note....Doug saw David (his 4 yr. old buddy w/neuroblastoma) again in the clinic yesterday. David ran up to him and gave him a great big hug. That put a big smile on Doug's face even when he was feeling yuky.

Thanks for checking and praying,

Debbi for all

Saturday, May 28, 2005 11:12 PM CDT

UPDATE
Friday's appointment was a relief for Doug because he did not have to stay long. His platlets were up, but his white cells are still low. So, he's still limited in where he goes. He went to our friends' house for dinner, but not bowling. We went to the pool to eat a picnic dinner in the Cabana and play board games, but he can't see the new Star Wars movie yet (inside a crowded theater).

GOLF (see new golf pics in photos)
We are so thankful to our neighborhood golf club. They have not only donated money to Doug's medical expenses from their fund raiser for cancer, but they are also letting Doug play golf there for free. So, for example, today we waited until around 5:30pm and went out to play a few holes when it wouldn't be crowded and when it was starting to cool off a little. Doug's strength only lasted a few holes this time, but he enjoyed being out there, and we enjoyed watching Nick complete the nine. Of course we got the benefit of watching the sun setting also.

Please continue to pray:
*for full recovery from this cycle(this has been the hardest cycle on his blood counts so far)

*for no infection!!!

*for total healing of course

*for rest, strength, faith, courage, and peace for the whole family


By the way, school is out here now :)

Thanks for checking and for praying,

Debbi for all

Tuesday, May 24, 2005 8:38 PM CDT

UPDATE
Thanks for praying! Doug didn't have a reaction to the platlets today and they went up sufficiently! Now let's hope and pray that his white cells go up and his platlets and hemoglobin stay up. We go back once again on Friday ): While we love the staff and the docs we need a break from that place!

Doug got to see his little buddy, David, in the hospital today. So sad that David's in the hospital, but soooo glad to see him. It is such a blessing to connect with those traveling a similar road.

Doug was really happy when he got home. He got to hang out with his new friends in the neighborhood. (We fudged the "no being with lots of people because you're neutropenic" rule)

Please pray for:
*rest and refreshment (Nick and I are exhausted...think we need a little more time to recover from these cycles than Doug even does...yikes!)

*protection from infection
*full recovery by this Friday and counts to stay way up!

Thanks for checking and praying,

Debbi for all

P.S. David's webpage is www.caringbridge.org/fl/davidjourneynorris

Monday, May 23, 2005 9:00 PM CDT

P.S. to the Update below (Tues.am 5-24)
Doug's white cells went back down and he is waiting in the office for platlets...please pray for no reaction and that his white cells go back up!

UPDATE
Well, Doug had a hard weekend because he did miss a lot of fun things because he was neutropenic (.8 white cell count) and couldn't be around a lot of people. He also had a low grade fever Saturday night that gave us a scare and made him feel yuky, but thankfully it never got high. Whew! Thank you Jesus!

Today he got re-checked at the clinic and his white cells are up! Yeah! But, he needs more platlets. So he has to go back in tomorrow for that. Please pray for wisdom for the doctors to know how to best proceed with the platlets. His previous allergic reactions are an issue, and they also mentioned the possibility that he could be developing antibodies to the platlets. ugh

Doug was so happy to get to go home today and not have to be admitted to the hospital. He was also happy to be "sprung" from the house! Tonight we took a walk and got to meet a new family in our neighborhood who also have 4 boys very close to our boys' ages. What a blessing! :)

Thanks for checking and thanks for praying!

Please continue to pray:
*for Doug to recover fully from this cycle and that all his counts will go up and stay up at a good level before the next cycle

*continue to pray for no infection (although it is a bit less scarey now that those counts are better)

*for rest, peace, courage, faith, hope, and strength

Thanks for being our friends,

Debbi for all

Friday, May 20, 2005 3:39 PM CDT

Dear friends, Well today at about 7:30am I got up and my mom drove to the cancer institute. They accsessed me and I got chemo once again. While I was in they gave me more platelets because my platelets where at 25. So once again for the 3rd time this week I had to be transfused. Plus this weekend I am probubly not going to do anything because my white cells are at o.3 and its to dangerouse to be around anyone. I was really bummed about it talking to my mom today but my mom said ''You know it could be worse because the last cycle I lost 4 pounds and had to be at home on IV fluids and I couldnt even eat or drink anything I was so nasause. So that made me feel a bit better and so when ever I get depressed this week I will remember last cycle and how I am doing now and compare them and that will make me feel better. I am doing pretty good for this part of my cycle......... Yea a lot better than last time.

From:Doug DeCola

P.S. Please keep praying for protection from infection!!!!! (Also, check out the picture at the clinic with Tricia:)

Thursday, May 19, 2005 3:47 PM CDT

UPDATE
Doug felt better yesterday after he filled up on hemoglobin. He got to play some video games with Danny at the clinic. Danny was going for his last chemo treatment in the hospital! He is Doug's little buddy who has the same kind of tumor and is just one cycle ahead of us in treatment. When it was time for him to go Danny didn't want to stop playing PS2 with Doug and so Nick picked him up in his chair and took him out of the room :) Danny's always making us laugh! www.caringbridge.org/fl/dannyw

Tomorrow Doug goes in for another check at the clinic and they are anticipating that he might need platlets again. PLEASE PRAY that he will not have another reaction to the platlets!!!!! (They will do a few things differently to try and prevent it)

Doug is a little bummed because he has to miss some fun things...like Rob's baseball game tonight and probably Rich's football game tomorrow night because his white cell count is so dangerously low. But, we're trying to prevent infection.

Thanks for checking on us and thanks for praying. We appreciate you!!!!

Please keep praying for:
*prevention of infection

*a quick and full recovery from this cycle

*full healing of the cancer

*strength, rest, peace, courage, health for our whole family

Tuesday, May 17, 2005 11:23pm est

Tuesday night, May 17
Doug had to get platlets at the hospital (the dredded Kidstop...ugh) and he had another reaction...this time worse, but they finally got it under control after a steriod, and albuterol via nebulizer. During the reaction we had a new dear friend from CA visiting with us who is an oncologist. He was in town for a conference and stopped by to encourage us. I tell ya it does help lessen the stress level to have a doctor friend sitting there monitoring your son when something is happening.

Doug has to go back to the clinic tomorrow for hemoglobin. He was pretty bummed about these unexpected bumps in the road of treatment....actually he was just pretty ticked because he just wants to keep feeling better and playing golf etc.

My mom made it through surgery fine... whew...now the tough road to recovery is next for her.

I must say that a cell phone certainly comes in handy when you're running a multi-ring circus....even when one of the rings is hundreds of miles away.

Thanks for checking and praying. Please keep praying!!!!

Monday night, May 16
UPDATE
Doug had a good weekend! On Friday we walked over to his former elementary school and stopped in to see some of his teachers there. Then we went to Rich's football game that night. Saturday he stayed at the ballfield for 2 baseball games, then on Sunday he went out for lunch with friends, Ryan and Taylor. Then, he played another nine holes of golf with Ryan and Nick. He said he played pretty well, and had an awesome shot one hole over some water and onto the green!

Today on the way to our traditional kids vs. their family baseball game with Rob's team.... he started feeling some throbbing in his head and he was really cold even though it's in the 80's here...so we're thinkin that could mean that he needs hemoglobin soon. But, he enjoyed eating at a favorite resturant after the game.

He's eating pretty well...just slightly nauseas! Although Doug's mentioned a slight change in hearing in one ear, WE have not noticed a difference in him hearing us...., and that's a good thing.

Thanks for praying! Please keep praying because this week and next week will be the time that his counts will drop and we're anticipating blood transfusions.

*keep praying for no infections

*that he'll recover fully quickly from this cycle

*that he'll be fully healed

*rest, peace, faith, courage for all of us

Sincerely,

Debbi for all

P.S. Could you also pray for Doug's Grandma Baldwin who is having major back surgery tomorrow????

Wednesday, May 11, 2005 2:09 PM CDT

Hi! everyone, Today I feel a lot better and can eat a lot better. I was able to sleep last night because of the new drug I was taking. I am so glad because I didnt sleep in two days and it felt good to get the rest. Some of the side affects like normal jaw pain, throat pain, and head pain are starting to go away today. I know I'm getting close to the end with being done with my treatment, and everyone says I'm so close "You can make it" But for me it doesn't really seem like I'm getting closer. It seems like my chemo will go on forever. But its true I am getting closer. Thank you guys for praying for me on these past couple days and please sighn the guest book I would really apreciate that!


From:Doug DeCola

P.S. There are a few new photos (You made our website Maggie!!!!)

Tuesday, May 10, 2005 6:19pm est

"Not so fun" of a day # 2. Doug still didn't sleep well last night and went to see a neurologist today. They're trying to figure out what's causing the problems....not sure now. He does have peripheral neuropathy which is caused by the vincristine (chemo drug). ugh But, supposedly it can be reversed in time. We'll try a drug prescribed for relief...,but in the meantime if anyone else has any ideas of how to relieve muscle cramps and twitching...let us know! Please pray for tonight!!

May 9
Doug couldn't sleep last night because of muscle cramps...yet another side effect of a side effect of his chemo. His electrolytes are depleted and probably are the cause. Yet after a trip to Dr. Hajjar's today they weren't depleted enough for any IV help. So, we're trying to get Doug to take the supplements needed by mouth and to drink lots of Gatorade.

Some of the other typical side effects are slowly showing up...sore throat, muscle ache, jaw pain etc. So the lack of sleep plus everything else has made for a "not so fun" of a day.

Please pray:
*that Doug will be able to eat and drink the right things and enough amounts

*that the electrolyte problem will be reversed

*that he'll get some relief and be able to sleep!

*protection against infection

*encouragement, comfort, courage, peace, and rest...and for us to take one day at a time

*PLEASE KEEP PRAYING AGAINST ANY NAUSEA!!!!!


Thanks for checking in! We appreciate you,

Debbi

Sunday, May 8, 2005 6:06 PM CDT

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!!

UPDATE
We have our 2nd miracle day! He's feeling good again. We went to Red Lobster for lunch. He wants you to know that he is eating well and is not nauseas. And, besides being a bit tired, he hasn't had some of the typical side effects.

Doug thinks that God has something to do with this. He thinks that it is because of your prayers. So, thank you for your prayers and please keep praying!!! It's making a difference!

REFLECTIONS
Just wanted to note how changed that Doug is. In his card to me today he expressed how thankful he is to me for being there for him this whole year. He is able to express his feelings and is very grateful for every little thing. He is also very thoughtful of others. It's like God's light shining brightly amidst the darkness.

Same prayer requests:
*his attitude and emotions...his outlook, perspective...which can affect the physical stuff

*protection for his hearing (This is another dose of the drug that causes permanent hearing loss)

*that Doug will not be nauseas...either from the drugs OR the association of the hospital, in anticipation (he gets nauseas when we pass the hospital in the car...a common thing in his shoes)

*that he won't get an infection

*for a quick recovery this round

*that he will continue to eat

*for God to make a smooth path with all the details this round

*for all of us...rest, peace, comfort, freedom from fear, and strength needed

You can thank God with us.

Thanks for believing with us,

Debbi

Saturday, May 7, 2005 12:10 AM CDT

UPDATE
Doug got home around 8pm last night from the hospital, was exhausted and was nauseas when he ate.

But the good news is for today we have a victory! He was so excited this morning when he woke up feeling pretty good. He's been able to eat and not feel nauseas so far. So you all can thank God for answering our prayers today.:)

We'll just take it day by day and let you know. Please continue to pray because it makes a huge difference!!!!

PRAYER REQUESTS
We still have the same requests

*his attitude and emotions...his outlook, perspective...which can affect the physical stuff

*protection for his hearing (This is another dose of the drug that causes permanent hearing loss)

*that Doug will not be nauseas...either from the drugs OR the association of the hospital, in anticipation (he gets nauseas when we pass the hospital in the car...a common thing in his shoes)

*that he won't get an infection

*for a quick recovery this round

*that he will continue to eat

*for God to make a smooth path with all the details this round

*for all of us...rest, peace, comfort, freedom from fear, and strength needed


Thank you for believing with us,

Debbi

Thursday, May 6 2005 10:57am est

May 6
Even though it was harder than ever for Doug to leave the house at 9pm last night and go to the hospital for another round....we do have something to be thankful for. Chuck, one of his favorite nurses, did a great job to get his chemo started a.s.a.p and because of that he has a better chance of getting out tonight at a decent time tonight! Yeah!! Thank you Chuck!!!!!

May 4
Doug tried to get in as much fun as he could these last few days. Today he got to visit his 6 day old second cousin, Drew. He didn't want to stop holding him!

We need your prayers for this next round. We've had a lot of mixed emotions lately. Today was the anniversary of Doug's brain surgery that removed the tumor. Doug was actually in a good mood, joking around and said "yep, the anniversary of the start of hell". Once in a while he'll express what it's really like for him and we encourage him to let it out. It's good to be able to be light about such a truth!

You might have seen the USA Today front page story today talking about cancer kids. They called it "a war" that these kids go through.

Tomorrow Doug's going back into combat and his last round was quite fierce. He needs prayer this time for:

*his attitude and emotions...his outlook, perspective...which can affect the physical stuff

*protection for his hearing (This is another dose of the drug that causes permanent hearing loss)

*that Doug will not be nauseas...either from the drugs OR the association of the hospital, in anticipation (he gets nauseas when we pass the hospital in the car...a common thing in his shoes)

*that he won't get an infection

*for a quick recovery this round

*that he will continue to eat

*for God to make a smooth path with all the details this round

*for all of us...rest, peace, comfort, freedom from fear, and strength needed

Thank you so much for everything you do. Thank you for praying,

Debbi

May 2 , 2005 6:35pm est

May 2
Doug is stocking up on fun before Thursday. He went to church, played nine holes of golf, and went to youth group yesterday. We're going to a movie tonight and he's playing golf and going to Rob's game tomorrow. He'll go into the hospital on Thursday.
4-30
Hey everyone, I am doing good and I am not to thrilled with going into the hospital on Thursday.I havent done a lot of things this week as usual I am so ready for this chemo to be totally done so I can do the things I used to do. I need some help with eating at the end of this cycle cause ime on my last this is the worst I have eatin on this part of my cycle so I would like you guys to pray for that other than that ime usually getting stronger and can do almost normal things outside right now. I hate when ime in in my last days and getting stronger and eating better and better and then I know the next day I will have to go in for more chemo and have to deal with all the side affects again. From: Doug

Saturday, April 23, 2005 2:34 PM CDT

UPDATE
Doug's counts were good on Thursday so he has next week off. He finally made it to PT this week both days. (It's been quite a few weeks of cancelling PT because he was too sick. Even this week he still battles nausea at times.) So, it was great to see our buddies at PT. They really make it a more pleasant experience and Doug loves them all! (See new pics)

We did get him outside today for a family wiffle ball game, and he helped his team to win (Doug, Mom, Rich & Harper- who played catcher)! Yes, we actually beat a team that Dad was on. Of course to be fair I have to admit that we made Robby bat left handed so he wouldn't mess up his baseball swing. :)

Doug and Dustin got a huge card and picture this week from our church in Syracuse! We had the best time trying to figure out who was who! 4 years makes a big difference! Wow! Thanks guys!

PRAYER REQUESTS
Please keep praying for Doug to get stronger

*for a really fun week (his only one off this cycle)

*for Debbi's health

*for encouragement for our whole family

Thanks for checking in and for praying!

Debbi for all

Tuesday, April 19, 2005 4:31 PM CDT

UPDATE
Well, we finally celebrated Doug and Dustin's 15th birthday the best we could....thanks to a little help from a friend. We finally had a day without a crisis. (See b-day pics)

Dustin's lip seems to be healing nicely.

Doug has a re-check at Dr. Hajjar's on Thursday...the second re-check this week. If all his counts are well, then he'll have next week off. The doc told him that he was proud of him for maintaining his weight. (Even when it still is a bit of a fight for him to eat enough)

PLEASE PRAY
*continue to pray for Doug to get stronger this next week and a half

*for protection of his hearing

*for him to feel encouraged

*for Dustin to heal completely

*for Nick and Debbi to get refreshed and replenished in body and heart

*for encouragement for Robby and Rich too

Thank you so much for all that you do....for praying, laundry, meals, cards, calls, visits and all.

Sincerely,

Debbi for all

Thursday, April 14, 2005 6:24 PM CDT

UPDATE
Doug felt stronger yesterday after his blood transfusion, but it was a long day. He stopped at the audiologist on the way home and found out that his hearing is just a little bit worse, but not too bad. Then, last night he didn't sleep well because he was upset and concerned for his twin brother DUSTIN. Why you might wonder?

GUEST SPOTLIGHT
This journal entry is devoted to DUSTIN for the next few days because he needs a little TLC and prayer. Didn't I just say last entry that "there's never a dull moment in our house?"

THE STORY
Last evening Harper, our beloved puppy dog, was enjoying a new bone. Against our advice and when I had stepped out to the store, Dustin decided to go up to him while he had the bone and make a scarey noise and gesture in his face. Harper reacted and bit him in the face. One look at his lip and I knew that we not only needed it stitched, but we needed a plastic surgeon to stitch it. So, we packed up and headed off to the dredded ER.

(On the way to the ER Dustin and I discussed the possible GOOD things about the situation....that our car could go on auto pilot to the hospital, that I knew the perfect place to park, knew exactly how to weave my way through the myriad of hallways to get the the ER the back way, that I knew where the ATM machine and the cafeteria and vending machines are, and that Dustin and I got to spend some alone time together, and that God is still God and was not surprised at what happened and that He was with us and still loved us.)

Nick met us at the ER when he eventually learned what happened. Dustin and I arrived at 8:30pm and Nick and Dustin got home at 7am the next morning. Then I took Dustin to the plastic surgeon's office at 11am and finally got him home around 1pm today.

Dustin thinks his stitches are "cool". He and Harper are still on very affectionate terms. Doug is relieved that his brother is o.k. Dustin agrees that it is a hard way to learn a lesson. Dustin loves to have his own exciting story to tell, but isn't too fond of the pain in his lip and that it's hard to eat. Mom, Dad, Rich and Rob are weary upon weary from yet another crisis. But, really ya just gotta laugh.

We are very thankful to our friends who responded compassionately again.

We love you. Thank you for your continued prayers!

Sincerely,

Debbi for all

P.S. Only look at the Dustin photos in "view photos" if you don't get squimish!

Tuesday, April 12, 2005 1:55 PM CDT

UPDATE
Doug had a throbbing headache the last few days and felt a bit weak. Turns out those are symptoms of low hemoglobin. Ahha...always learning something new. So, he needs another blood transfusion. The good news is that he can wait until tomorrow morning and have it done in the doc office instead of the hospital. It's hard to explain why this is such a relief for us,....but it just is. Doug is very relieved that he won't have to miss Robby's baseball game tonight.

To further explain what goes on at our house with 4 boys....I had to take Rob to the doctor this a.m. because he had punctured his foot the other day and there was a question of whether it had glass in it, or if it was getting infected etc. See, never ever a dull moment. Very thankfully his foot is fine. Whew. Of course Robby insisted that he'd play baseball through the pain no matter what. I told you he's a passionate kid!

Doug had a fun surprise package yesterday from California. Who do we know in California??? It was a present from Switchfoot...several new beanies and a card signed by the band guys! You might finally see Doug in a different hat, although it will STILL be a Switchfoot hat.:) THANKS AGAIN GUYS!!!!

*please pray that the transfusion will go well and make him feel stronger (he had a reaction to the last transfusion, but it was platelets not hemoglobin)

*for rest and recovery

*for increased strength

We need your prayers as always....and thank you,

Debbi

Saturday, April 9, 2005 3:37 PM CDT

Doug wanted me to tell you that he's eating a bit better. He thinks that the new drug that he took for the nausea may have helped!

We took the boys out to dinner last night and had a great time as a family. We aren't celebrating the twin's b-day yet because we just haven't had time to prepare for a celebration. So it's postponed.

The boys gave Harper a bath today and as usual he made us laugh and laugh! (See picture)

We will be at the ballpark again tonight. Doug is going to be honorary bat boy for the annual coaches game.

Thank you for praying!

Please continue to pray for *recovery from this round of chemo (not only for Doug, but for all of us!)

*good appetite, nutrition, strength

*protection from infection

We appreciate you,

Debbi

Wednesday, April 6, 2005 10:35 AM CDT

Friday, April 8
Doug had to get a blood transfusion for platlets last night.(Oops, he probably should not have been hitting those baseballs on Wednesday...oh well) He was at the Dr. from 2:30pm-5pm, then back at the hospital from 7:30pm-12am. We are all weary. He's still fighting the nausea, and we had to cancel PT this week because of it. We're trying a new anti-nausea med today. Please pray accordingly! Thanks

Wednesday, April 6
Dear friends,

I am doing alright today but I am still a little nausaus. Something I am looking forward to this weekend is my birthday. I am going to have a small family party this year because I can't do much with people anyways.

I went to the doctors office yesterday and got good news. The chemo they had sceduled for last week was cancelled because of my hospital stay. So I got regular chemo yesterday, and now I have 3 and 1/2 weeks off until I go back for cycle 8 out of 9. It's starting to get really hard to fight and to keep food down these last few cycles but I know I am so close to the end and that I am almost done in July.

Robby has a baseball game tonight so I'm kinda excited for that. To me it's fun just to watch a baseball game right now because I can't go out and do much until I am done. Please pray that I start to eat better and that I won't get as nausaus next cycle.

From
Doug DeCola

P.S. 11pm...look in "view photos" for Doug at the baseball field!

Sunday, April 3, 2005 12:32 AM CDT

GREAT NEWS

Doug is out of the hospital already!

Doug said, "Even though I didn't get to go to the Switchfoot concert I just knew that God was going to do something good."

Doug had a sleepless Friday night with continuous nausea and weakness...a night that seemed forever and one in which he told me that he was praying all night long for God's help. He was really scared and then on Saturday the news came that he needed to be admitted to the hospital and would miss seeing Switchfoot that night. What a disappointment! He was very sick and sad, but I could see that he was not despairing.

Last evening while Rich was staying with Doug, Doug's friends Ryan and Taylor came into the hospital with their guitar, music, bongos, and shirts that read Jon and Chad (names of Switchfoot guys). They said that since he couldn't make the concert that they'd bring the concert to him. I hear that they had a great time and Doug was actually laughing, smiling, playing the bongos, and relaxed!

Then, another thing happened. The phone rang and it was Jon Foreman from Swithchfoot. He talked with Doug and his friends and told Doug that they would pray for him that night. (We hear that he did actually mention praying for Doug on stage)

When I returned to the hospital at 8pm Doug was a happy kid. His nurse told me that Doug's more recent bloodwork showed that things were not as bad as they had expected. Hmmm... Interesting.

Today I was at home waiting for Nick to call with the news about Doug's status. I heard the back door and looked up and here comes Doug!!!!! What an incredible surprise! Fact is that Doug's morning bloodwork came back normal and they actually discharged him without even giving him the nutrients that were planned.

Doug said, "I think that a huge reason that I got better so fast is all the people praying for me and that Switchfoot was praying for too!"

THANKS FOR PRAYING!

He's starting to eat!

*Please pray that the nausea will go away completely and that he'll eat more and more and gain weight!

*He even said that his hearing doesn't seem as bad...please continue to pray for protection!

And please praise God with us!!!!!

Thanks to the Lord and for His people,

Debbi

P.S. Doug and Dustin's birthday is April 10, next Sunday!

Saturday, April 2, 2005 11:35 AM CST

Dear Friends,

Unfortunately, Doug is going to need to be admitted to to the hospital this Saturday April 2. He needs to get nutrients that he needs through an IV. This, of course, is an incredible disapointment to Doug and the entire family. Because of the fact that Doug is going to the hospital, he won't be able to go see the band Switchfoot at Cypress Gardens today. This is a huge dispointment for him and the entire family. Please pray for his heart, he is so dispointed, pray that the lord will bost his morale. Pray that these new sets of nutrients given to him through the IV will help him and get him home. Pray that he will be able to eat again, so that he will gain more weight. Pray for the family as a whole, for our spirits and endurance as Doug can see the finish line, but is struggling to get there.

We thank you all so sincerely for being such incredible friends,

Rich (for the DeCola Family)

PS: please sign Doug's guestbook, he loves it when you do!!!

Friday, April 1, 2005 10:26 AM CST

Doug has been so sick with this round of chemo that he lost a lot more weight in a short amount of time and on Wednesday felt dizzy, faint, and weak. He ended up staying the the hospital overnight on IV fluids and meds.

He is now home on IV fluids, but is still very nauseas. He has to fight to take every bite. He is doing a great job of eating even when he is nauseas. But, you can imagine how hard it is.

His favorite band, Switchfoot, is in town tomorrow night and have once again invited us to be their guests at their concert. They have been incredibly encouraging to him. So, going to see them again is motivating him to fight hard to get better.

PRAYER REQUESTS
Will you please pray *that the nausea will stop!!!!

*that he will feel well enough to enjoy talking to the guys in the band and experiencing the concert

*that all the details of getting him off the IV before we need to leave for the concert works out

* that he will eat, gain weight, and get stronger, and recover quickly from this set back

*that we will all rest in the Lord

We are so thankful to all of you who are praying for him and for us! Please remember that it makes a difference.

Believing,

Debbi

Wednesday, March 30, 2005 9:53 AM CST

Wednesday 11:44pm
Doug is staying overnight in the hospital. They couldn't get the IV set up for home. He's had a really, really hard day. He needs to be able to eat. Please pray that the nausea will go away and that he'll eat, eat, eat! Pray for his spirits too! Thanks.

PLEASE JOIN US IN PRAYER!

Doug is pretty discouraged because he's having a hard time with nausea and having a hard time even keeping his food down this time. So, they are giving him IV fluids right now at Dr. Hajjar's office, and he will continue to have the IV at home. He gets very anxious about this, so please pray that he'll be able, by faith, to rest in the Lord and trust him.

Also, he's having more than usual ringing in his ears and some other funky stuff that is scaring him with his ears.(Remember that the chemo drug he just had can cause hearing loss) He's encouraged that he's closing in on the end of treaments over the next 4 months, so in a way it's almost harder to take this one day at a time. But, he needs to.

He's so looking forward to the day that he starts feeling better and keeps feeling better.

Will you please join us in this struggle by praying and encouraging him?

Thank you,

Debbi

Thursday, March 24, 2005 11:03 AM CST

Sunday 3/27
HAPPY EASTER!!!!

Sat., 3/26
Doug is glad to be home from the hospital. He's felt pretty yucky already off and on, but he wanted me to tell you that the MRI went fast and well. He said the Lord answered his prayers! (and yours...thanks)

Thursday, 3/24/05
Dear friends, this is Doug speaking and vacation was awesome. I went to panama city beach. On vacation I went to the beach, went bowling,pool,and miniture golfing, and our family had a shuffleboard tournament. It was fun to get away for a little bit cause I haven't been away since I've had cancer. It was restful and I was very happy.

Today I'm going into the hospital for cycle 7 and I'm getting an MRI there too. Please pray that the MRI goes well and fast. I don't want to go to the hospital cause all my brothers get to keep doing fun things during their spring break and I don't.

An exciting thing happened when we got home. We found a package waiting for me and it was a Mikey Powell lacrosse stick, stickers, sweat bands, shirts, poster and belt! Mike Powell is my favorite player. He played for Syracuse and just turned pro. I have no idea who it came from, but I am so excited. The stick is awesome! The only bad thing is that I have to wait to use the stick until I get better from this chemo cycle.

We finally got a new camera so my mom is going to try to figure out how to get the vacation pictures in our computer and on the website.

Also, I did have something to look forward to getting home...my dog, Harper. He was very happy to see us and he did fine when we were gone. Thanks for praying!

PLEASE PRAY FOR ME FOR CYCLE 7 TODAY!!!!!!!!!!

THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!

Tuesday, March 15, 2005 8:05 PM CST

UPDATE
Thank you so much for praying! Doug is doing pretty well. He's eating again and getting nauseas less and less. We went to one of his favorite pizza places today for lunch.

What a relief to be almost completely through cycle 6! And, we have something to look forward to before cycle 7 begins next week. Doug is very, very excited about getting away for a few days to the beach. We all need it!

Doug is enjoying Robby's baseball games again. Seems like Rob always makes it exciting....he got a home run last game.


PRAYER REQUESTS
*that Doug will keep feeling well during spring break

*refreshment for all of us

*that God will protect Harper when we're away...it's hard to explain how important this pup is to all of us...we all see him as a gift from God to help us through Doug's journey

Thanks again!

Debbi

Friday, March 11, 2005 6:14 PM CST

Dear friends, this is Doug talking and I have to tell you that today I went to the hospital to get my counts checked and there up now so I dont have to go to the hospital for 2 weeks. I am also excited because over spring break I am going on vacation. So right now I would say I am doing pretty well for this time in my cycle.But right now I need to start eating well because I havent for about 2 weeks, so you guys need to pray that I start eating very well and that I gain weight. So I am really glad I am through this cycle.
yea!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


From:Doug

Monday, March 7, 2005 5:15PM EST

UPDATE
We've had some uneventful days with Doug. (which of course is good news!) He's felt a little better, but still has a hard time eating without getting nauseas. His counts will be re-checked tomorrow.

He did beat Robby in ping pong today. I can tell you that because I'm also going to tell you that Robby had one of his best ever baseball games Saturday night. He walked twice, got a single and a triple, and caught a great game....threw the first guy out who tried to steal, and they won big! Rob is very passionate about baseball.

REFLECTIONS
Sorry for the wimpy updates lately, but I've just been very weary....a lot of grieving going on lately in our house. Saturday night was the first time I'd been out in a week. I'm so thankful to Debbie M. who stayed with Doug so I could get to Robby's game.

I AM very, very thankful for the most gorgeous weather here, and the sight and sound of the wildlife from our back porch is very soothing.

PRAYER REQUESTS
*for Doug to be able to eat well

*protection against infection still

*increased energy

*healing

*protection against hearing loss

*for us all to rest in Jesus' arms

Thank you so much for your prayers,

Debbi

P.S. Please continue to sign the guestbook so that Doug will know who's checking on him. You don't have to say anything whitty, just "hi"

Friday, March 4, 2005 1:34pm EST

UPDATE
Doug has had some good chunks of time where he's feeling better. But, now he is neutropenic...which means that his counts are dangerously low....he has almost no white cells. This means he won't be going anyplace where there are lots of people any time soon.

We are in survival mode. If Doug can get past this next week without any incident....then I think we'll be doing very well.

His classes have kept him going. They take his mind off of how he's feeling. No matter how he's felt he has risen to the occasion when it came time for class over the phone.

PLEASE PRAY
*protection against infection for our whole family

*for our spirits...there's a sadness and weariness that hangs over us right now that comes and goes

*Doug requests that you pray that he stops being nauseas and that he's able to eat well...that battle makes him weary

We appreciate you. Thanks for checking in,

Debbi

Tuesday, March 1, 2005 10:17 PM CST

UPDATE
Though it's been a tough couple of days it could be much worse. Doug's been very uncomfortable, but the meds that he's taking to counter the side effects of the chemo have worked better today and he's had some good hours and has eaten slightly better. We're anticipating many more ups and downs, but are very thankful for these reprieves.

Please keep praying for him to recover from this cycle of treatment, to do well and for us to continue to believe God in the process.

God is answering our prayers. Thank you for joining us,

Debbi

Sunday, February 27, 2005 12:09 AM CST

UPDATE
Doug's feeling pretty badly trying to cope with the yucky side effects. But, he's glad to be home and we're just laying low and hoping to wait it out. With feeling badly comes feeling sadly too.

Things are nice and quiet here today since Doug's brothers are at friends' houses and it is a rare rainy whole day here in Florida. Not such a bad day to be waiting it out. It could be worse.

Our little internet friend that we've been following, 2 year old, Ben, who had a rare brain tumor died on Friday evening. But, his suffering has ended he's in the arms of Jesus now. And, so many lives have been touched through his journey. (www.bens-story.com)

Gotta go...Doug is calling...at times like this we stay close by.

You know how to pray!

Thanks,

Debbi

Thursday, February 24, 2005 11:13pm EST

UPDATE
Doug didn't sleep much last night because they started his chemo at 4am, so he's really tired, and the meds are hitting him already. Met another family whose son has medulloblastoma and found out this drug is rough on him too. Soooo, nice to talk to someone who is going through the exact same thing, though.


REFLECTIONS
At his "1/2 way through chemo party" his friend, Ryan, and Ryan's sister, Sarah, gave him a DVD with a collection of pictures of him and Ryan since the beginning of Doug's journey until now. Doug is watching it over and over and showing his nurses in the hospital, too. The background song to the DVD is a song that starts..."Never underestimate my Jesus" Doug loves it. As I see it, Ryan, Sarah, and the Delk family sure are storing up treasures in heaven.

Read a devotional to Doug today which is very focused on eternal things. Before, I had thought that maybe the readings would be too "adultish" for him. Not so. This kid's soul has grown up so fast. He gets it. With his suffering has come a gift of understanding the things of God.


PLEASE KEEP PRAYING...
*that the side effects will be minimal

*for his spirits....that he'll trust God with his sadness about feeling sick again

*for us....it's so hard to see him go through this again

Thanks for checking on us,

Debbi

P.S. Doug is at Florida South Hospital, Rm. 6350, Bed 7, and is scheduled to get out tomorrow night

Wednesday, Feb. 23, 2005

#3 Finally left for hospital at 8:28pm!

#2 Addition to update,2-23, Wed, 7:56pm est-still at home waiting for a hospital bed

Addition to this update, Wed., 3:43pm est-Doug is waiting at home for the doctor's call since he is 18th in line to get a hospital bed!

UPDATE (Tues. 2-22)
DOUG GOES TO THE HOSPITAL TOMORROW AT 10:30AM...will hopefully be back home by Friday.

Doug has tried to do things that he really wanted to do these last few days while he still has energy. He's worked hard at PT and at lacrosse practice. Unfortunately he'll most likely miss his first game this Saturday following chemo. He also visited his dad's office and met some Nick's colleagues who have been praying faithfully for Doug when they run on their lunch break.

REFLECTIONS
You can feel it in our house...mostly with Doug, me, and Nick..., but it's there. It's the calm before a battle. In a way, it's a bit like when we prepared for the hurricanes and the time when we had done all that we could do to be ready, and then we just waited for it to hit. We heard a great talk today about prayer. It reminded us that we're in a spiritual war and that we need to pray remembering that there are many battles going on. I can sense it with Doug. He always gets quiet the night before he has to go back into the hospital..... and I see that sense of dred. We're asking that you'd enter into this battle with us through prayer....

PLEASE PRAY
*for supernatural peace and joy

*miraculous physical well being and healing

*solid faith and trust in God for every little detail...every fear and challenge

*that God will be glorified


Thank you,

Debbi for all

P.S. See journal history for the outcome of Doug's half-way through chemo party :)

Saturday, February 19, 2005 11:19 AM CST

Dear friends, this is Doug talking and the party that my parents gave me for 1/2 way through chemo was very fun. About 4 families came and when I walked into my party there where three banners up, one said ''congratulations Doug,'' another said ''Celebrate 1/2 way'' and the last one said ''Keep going your almost there''. The house was decorated with ballons that said congratulations Doug on them. Out on my back porch was my ping pong table. For dinner we had pizza, vegetables,fruit,cookies,cake,and cupcakes.After we played ping pong, we had pizza and all the things I mentioned we had for food. After we ate I oppened the cards from every one and that was pretty fun. My favorite part of the party was everyone congradulating me and telling me I am going to make it and the next half of chemo is all down hill from here.Also I liked the banner outside that said YOUR ALMOST THERE and my parents wrote little things on the banner that they used to call me and what they call me now like my dad always calls me braveheart right now and for a nickname my dad calls me dooglo and things like that. If you could please congratulate my mom for doing such a good job with my party. To my mom I would like to say thankyou you mom for my party, it was very very very fun. To Every one who sighned my guestbook thankyou again for writing.


from Doug



THANKS FOR PRAYING!!!!
CYCLE 6 BEGINS WEDNESDAY...PLEASE PRAY

*please pray that he will be strong going into cycle 6 this week and that God will sustain him....and keep him from having the side effects that he had the last time that he had to have this drug

*pray that he will go into this treatment trusting the Lord and casting his anxiety on Him and confident of His care

Debbi

Wednesday, February 16, 2005 10:32 PM CST

UPDATE
Just doing well....Doug took a long walk in the neighborhood with his Aunt Sue by his side and played in the park with his cousins Gabbi and Emma on Sunday.

He did some fun things in PT on Tuesday and acutally made it through a whole lacrosse practice on the same day! His muscles are aching.

His appetite has increased the last few days. He's asking to get out and go places, so he hung out at a bookstore and at Johnny Rockets with Rich. He even attempted to put a little wrestling move on Robby today...whoa..., and he ended up going to his school's volleyball game. (Dustin is the manager of the team)

He's looking forward to his party on Friday night.

REFLECTIONS
We have reflected lately upon how Doug is a changed person. He has such a depth to him...something that was there before, but has been fanned into flame through this journey. He thinks, perceives, understands, and discerns more deeply, and his heart is very sensitive to others. Such gold emerging from the fire!


THANKS FOR PRAYING!!!!

*please pray that he will be strong going into cycle 6 next week and that God will sustain him....and keep him from having the side effects that he had the last time that he had to have this drug

*pray that he will go into this treatment trusting the Lord and casting his anxiety on Him and confident of His care

As always we are grateful,

Debbi

Saturday, February 12, 2005 3:24 PM CST

UPDATE
Happily, happily not much to report except that Doug is doing fine. He didn't have to go to the doctor this week and he was ecstatic! He went to Robby's baseball practice Thursday night and helped out a little bit. We celebrated a school work victory with Dustin last night with pizza and a movie.

Funny thing...I work really hard at getting Doug up and moving when he's feeling better. If he wants to tease me then he says, "I think I'm going to go lay down on the couch." When I react then he starts laughing.

REFLECTIONS
STARING At DEATH
During this journey one thing is evident and that is that gazing at the threat of death is a good thing. It is a gift, really. When my dad died right before my eyes over 5 years ago I heard God's voice in a tangible way like never before. I experienced Him as real and intimately involved with and caring of me. When my faith wavers during good times I look back at that landmark. Now, I am experiencing Him in a tangible way again. And that's why staring at death is a gift.

"Without weakening in his faith, he faced the fact that his body was as good as dead....Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, being fully persuaded that God had the power to do what he had promised." Romans 4:19,20

PRAYER REQUEST
*Doug is asking for prayer....that he would eat more. Not sure why his appetite is down, but now is the time that he needs to be eating more

Thank you so much for praying! It is so good to hear people that we don't even know personally are praying for Doug!

Persuaded,

Debbi




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Wednesday, February 9, 2005 7:21 PM CST

UPDATE
Doug is doing fine. He hasn't picked up any of the viruses flying around our house. He did great at PT this week and continues to work hard at his school work. Dustin is recovered too.

REFLECTIONS
Seems like we live in a war zone and we have been dodging bullets right and left. We dodged another one with Dustin's illness. It hit him hard, but didn't last too long. Doug didn't get it! We made it through 2 nights of Dad being out-of-town. Seems like I'm either managing a mini crisis or preparing for a potential one. I'm exhausted again and need to re-charge.

The highlight of my last couple of weeks has been reading to Robby......my favorite part of home schooling (Doug likes to listen in when he's not in class). About the only thing I ever miss about the cold, snowy north weather are the times we snuggled up under the covers or by the fire place and read and read together...the boys begging for just one more chapter....and me pretending like I couldn't go on, but really wanting to, knowing that it's exactly what I wanted...to instill in them a passion for a good story.

Some day maybe I'll be able to look back on Doug's journey and write his story....and how it fits into God's big story.

PRAYER REQUESTS
*continued prayer for Doug's healing, strength, calorie intake, and encouragement

*for good rest and recharging for Mom and Dad

*continued prayer for Dusty and his challenges with school...he has to work so hard

Thank you for being our friends,

Debbi

Sunday, February 6, 2005 11:24 PM CST

UPDATE
Doug has been fine these last few days! We went to a superbowl party tonight and he claims that he ate 21 spicey chicken wings!(Think he was competing with Robby) These wings are made by Dad and are requested by the boys anytime there is an "important" sporting event to watch on t.v.

I hate to even tell you this, but now Dustin is sick...fever, sore throat, cough.

REFLECTIONS
With the other boys being sick so much I find myself not worrying about Doug getting sick too much anymore, because I just can't. It's not in my control anyway, only in God's. Funny, Dustin forgets to "stay away" from Doug, though, so you can hear Doug saying "stay away from me" on and off throughout the day. Doug is very aware that a fever for him means a certain trip to the hospital.

But, Dustin has memories of the hospital too. It was only 3 years ago that he spent a week there with a severe pneumonia that came on very suddenly. So, we're watching him carefully also. I'll take him to the doc tomorrow.

Congrats to our friend, Walt, chaplain of the Patriots! Great job in the interview on Fox News!!! We expect to see more pictures!

PRAYER REQUESTS
*for Doug to fight hard to recover fully and work at his PT

*protection against infection!!!!!

*healing for Dustin

*continued prayer for Doug's healing, appetite, calorie intake, energy level

Thank you for reading this and for praying,

Debbi

Friday, February 4, 2005 10:51 AM CST

UPDATE
Doug had his doc appt. yesterday and his counts are on their way up. He's feeling a bit better.

He also saw the opthamologist this week. His regular vision is good and his double vision had lessened slightly. We were considering surgery to correct the double vision, but it's been decided that we will wait until the end of his chemo.

REFLECTIONS
Doug and his Dad pulled a trick on me yesterday, called me from the doctor and said that he had to have a transfusion because his counts were low and he might have to spend the night in the hospital. I was very calm in receiving this news, but in my mind was racing to figure out all the details that would have to be taken care of and all the scrambling I would have to do to manage another "curve ball". Then, the kid says to me......"just kidding, mom" as he and his dad are laughing on the cell phone. I told Doug that he better watch out cause I'll be looking to get him back! Just thought I'd share with you what my family thinks is a funny joke these days! lol

PRAYER REQUESTS
*if you would continue to pray for Dustin along with Doug we'd really appreciate it....Dustin has been more encouraged lately and he really needs it, and I think that he will be excited to know that people are praying for him too!

*please continue to pray for Doug's healing, for his calorie in-take, for strength, and encouragement

Casting,

Debbi

Wednesday, February 2, 2005 7:17 PM CST

UPDATE
Doug's felt kinda crummy and weak the last few days. We're not sure what's going on.

REFLECTIONS
Sometimes the burdens of this journey get heavy, and they've felt heavy for Doug the last few days. Sometimes out of the blue it hits, and my teenage son gets sick and tired of having cancer and all of the challenges he has to deal with every day. At these times Mom and Dad need to "be there" for him. All of a sudden all the things we thought we had planned to do get put on hold. We need to flex like Gumby and be still and know that God is never taken off guard like we are.

"Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7

PRAYER REQUESTS
*besides praying for Doug please continue to pray for his twin, Dustin, and his struggles in school (there's been some encouragement lately)

Casting,

Debbi

Monday, January 31, 2005 10:03 AM CST

UPDATE
Doug had a good day yesterday after sleeping in very late. He got re-checked at the doctor today and his counts are on their way up! We are very thankful!

SPECIAL THANKS
Wanted to take this time to thank all the ladies of my CURVES community for what they did for us the month of December. They collected food for our pantry and money for a special gift and for calorie supplements for Doug. You helped us feel loved and cared for over the holidays. Extra thanks to Kirk McCall, a 5th grader at Doug's former elemetary school, who rallied the troops at Sunrise to give over and above the CURVES donations. We were so blessed to spend time with your family on Christmas Eve! God's grace and mercy shined through all of you to us at a time when we were very weary. It was another memorable "moment" in our journey.

SPECIAL PRAYER REQUEST
*Besides praying for Doug, will you please pray for his twin, Dustin, who is struggling in school?? He really needs it.

Thanks a lot,

Debbi

Saturday, January 29, 2005 12:13 AM CST

UPDATE
Happy news! THANK YOU FOR PRAYING! Doug is fine, and in his words "feeling pretty good today" for having such incredibly low blood counts. What a relief! He was even out riding his scooter and hanging out in the neighborhood for awhile today. (for our northern state friends...yes, I even have on shorts today the weather is that nice)

REFLECTIONS
Doug and I were talking last night and I commented on how well he was doing with this potential crisis. I said I can see that you're really trusting God like never before. He said, "Yea, I am. I realize that I can't control anything. What's the point of worrying. That doesn't help anything." Also, he's changed a lot! Doug used to freak out the whole week before he got an immunization shot. So, it has been really hard to have so many needles used on him in many different ways. Now, he says, "It's no big deal." He says that it's gotten less scarey the more he's learned to have faith. Plus, he's seen God's care for him over and over. I said that it's like exercising a faith muscle, and his muscles are getting such a work out...they're getting bigger and bigger.

Also, we were reflecting about Doug's puppy, Harper, and laughing and crying about what a blessing he is. Doug said that Harper really does help him when he's feeling badly. Truth is he helps all of us. We decided that maybe Harper is an angel sent from God instead of just a puppy dog.

Thanks again for praying and for letting us know by signing the guestbook,

Debbi

Friday, January 28, 2005 9:30 AM CST

PRAYER REQUEST!

Doug's counts have bottomed out and he's not feeling well and has a sore throat. Nick is out of town.

PLEASE PRAY THAT DOUG DOES NOT GET A FEVER! A fever means a certain admission to the hospital.

Thank you,

Debbi

Wednesday, January 26, 2005 4:50 PM CST

UPDATE
Well, this is the time in the cycle when Doug's counts are dropping and now Robby has a cold virus. He and Rich seem to be trading off being sick. Rob and Doug are roomates. Doug is feeling a bit lousy right now. We don't know what it is yet. He goes to the doc for his 3rd week out- patient "push" of chemo tomorrow.

REFLECTIONS
So much for "looking around". (See journal history)

PRAYER REQUESTS
* PLEASE pray that the Lord will protect Doug and that he will not get a fever!!!! (a fever means a trip to the hospital)

* pray that Rob will recover quickly

* pray that Doug's counts will pop back up on their own

Thanks,

Debbi

Monday, January 24, 2005 5:58 PM CST

UPDATE
Doug says to tell everyone that he's doing well for this cycle and that he's eating pretty well. He's working hard at his school work. He gets tired pretty quickly, but is so conscientious that he pushes himself over the edge sometimes instead of taking the breaks that he needs.

Rich is completely recovered and is back in the swing of his full schedule.

Well, our beloved Packers bombed out in the play-offs (did we tell you that we named Doug's puppy Harper Favre DeCola? :)), so we're happy about the Patriots. The Patriots are a second favorite because our dear friend, Walt, is the chaplain for them as well as for the Red Sox. We're happy for Walt! And, since they made it to the Super Bowl and it's in Florida then we'll get to see Walt when he comes next week sometime.

REFLECTIONS
Hmmm, Doug is doing well. What do I do with myself? I'm so used to being in mini crises with him that I have to really re-group when it changes. When I look around I see all the other needs that were put on hold. So, it's nice to be "looking around" for a time.

PRAYER REQUESTS
*that Doug will gain weight during this period when he feels better

*for complete healing from the cancer and protection of his hearing

*that Nick and I will have wisdom in prioritizing the other needs around us

PRAISE
*Rich got better

*Doug's doing the best that he can be right now

*for the dear people who are ministering to us in so many ways including praying and checking the website!!!

Thanks as always,

Debbi

Friday, January 21, 2005 9:28 PM CST

UPDATE
Not much to report...which is great...except that Doug has been doing well for this phase in his cycle. He got his 2nd week of chemo at the doctor and his counts were fine. He's been working hard in his classes, and he felt well enough to do PT today.

Rich became the couch potato instead of Doug this week and actually stated, "Doug, I think you feel better than I do right now!" Rich is on meds for some sort of infection that's been slow to improve.

SAME PRAYER REQUESTS

*protection against virus and infection

*increased strength and healing

*continued protection for his hearing

*continued appetite (specifically that he'll gain weight now, because the next cycle is the drug that really zapped him before)

*pray for Dustin and his struggles with school

*pray for Rich to get well

Thank you,

Debbi ­
­­

Wednesday, January 19, 2005 9:22 AM CST

UPDATE
Doug woke up Monday and felt better than the day before so we went to a movie that day. Today he feels better than yesterday!!!! (That's where we're at...just hoping to feel better than yesterday) He is feeling slightly nauseas off and on, but it's been less of a struggle than a few cycles ago.

Rich is home sick again and going to the doctor today. My mom went home to wintery cold Indiana so we all miss her....even Harper. Grandma spoiled the puppy.

REFLECTIONS
A friend sent me this funny quote today and I thought it applied to us. "I try to take one day at a time -- but sometimes several days attack me at once."

PRAISE

*that Doug is feeling better today than yesterday and that he has an appetite and is eating!

*that Robby's dental problem has not gotten any worse

*that Doug has escaped getting these bugs that Rich and Rob keep getting

PRAYER REQUESTS
*protection against virus and infection

*increased strength....that he'll feel well enough to make his PT appointment on Friday

*continued protection for his hearing

*continued appetite (specifically that he'll gain weight now, because the next cycle is the drug that really zapped him before)

*pray for Dustin and his struggles with school

Thank you,

Debbi ­
­­

Sunday, January 16, 2005 3:12 PM CST

UPDATE
Doug has been having the same yucky side effects the last few days. Think TMJ and mono together. Good thing is that he has not been as nauseas, so the trick is to just find food that he can manage without hurting his throat and jaw.

Rich was sick at the end of the week, but went to his Student Venture conference in Cocoa Beach anyway. Rob now has a dental issue that we're hoping will wait until Tuesday when the dentist is finally in his office again.

REFLECTIONS
I ask myself "why am I so tired?" I think that it is an emotional tired. Even though I know somewhat more of what to expect it still doesn't make it any easier. My sons just want Mom to 'fix it' when they don't feel well, and I often feel helpless and that is draining. Knowing that there's a mountain top on the other side of the valleys doesn't make the trip less taxing, but it does give me hope. "...but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles;they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." Isaiah 40:31

Did I mention that we actually had a Bald Eagle on our roof a few months ago?

PRAYER REQUESTS
*that we will rest in the Lord (Nick's tired too)

*that the Lord will protect Doug's hearing (another side affect is ringing in his ears)

*that Rob's dental problem will be solved quickly and easily

*that Doug will feel better quickly and that he will put his hope in the Lord when he's in these valleys

Thanks for praying,

Debbi for all

Wednesday, Jan. 12, 2005, 11:24pm EST

UPDATE
Doug had to stay an extra night because the hospital was very busy and didn't get the chemo done in time for him to leave. He's doing fine, but starting to feel the usual side effects now...fatigue, achey etc. HI CHUCK!! (Doug's nurse tonight)

Tuesday, Jan. 11
Doug is going into the hospital today to begin Cycle 5 of chemo. If all goes smoothly he'll be back home late tomorrow night. Please pray for him, for a positive attitude and to trust in the Lord. He's dredding it of course.

SPECIAL PRAYER REQUEST
Many people see our struggle these days and go back to the question "what is Doug's prognosis". We are greatful that Doug's prognosis is as good as it could be for an agressive tumor of the brain-medulloblastoma. The surgeon said that the tumor almost fell into his hand...meaning that it was easy for him to get it out and get it all. Also, Doug had no signs of tumors in his spine. That was great news.

We are past the brutal radiation stage that while helping to kill cancer cells in the brain, also further "injured" his brain at the same time. We are also thankful that we are now half-way through the very long chemo treatment cycles. We know that they need to treat this tumor with several different drugs over this period of time or it WILL come back. This kind of cancer travels through spinal fluid. So far the MRI's are still coming back clear.

The chemo has been brutal at times, too. The whole process causes more physical, mental, and emotional suffering. If I step back and look at it I am very thankful that, though these procedures and drugs are toxic and awful, they are helping to save Doug's life. They are giving us more life with him here on earth. As I step back into the picture of our life right now it is a day to day survival. Each day can hold mini crises. Each day can present yet another fear or new challenge. We must cling to the Lord one day at a time.

One of the things that the doctors did at the beginning of Doug's treatment was to go over all of the drugs he would be given, all the procedures he would have, or might have, and all of the things that could happen to him and all of the possible side effects that these treatments could have on him. The lists were so long and formidable, and overwhelming that I must say I had to laugh.....laugh and say Lord you know this is too much for my mind and heart to take ahold of....this stuff is yours!

THAT BRINGS ME TO MY PRESENT PRAYER REQUEST. One of the side effects of one of the drugs he is taking is permanent hearing loss. (We know of a few other kids who had this treatment and have permanent hearing loss.) Doug has already lost some high pitched tones. This is a loss that would not effect his everyday life, and it could possibly be recovered. But, he has 3 more rounds of the drug that can cause the hearing loss. The doctors will monitor it, but they will choose hearing loss over lessening the dose of the drug because lessening the dose could "endanger his life". We understand this. So, of course we need to put it into the Hands of the only One who we can really entrust his life to anyway.

WILL YOU PLEASE PRAY FOR THE LORD NOT ONLY TO HEAL DOUG COMPLETELY, BUT THAT HE WILL ALSO SPARE HIS HEARING??

From a mother's heart,

Debbi

Saturday, January 8, 2005 7:02 PM CST

UPDATE
Rob's feeling better. Doug has not gotten the bug so far. The last few days have been happily uneventful. Thanks for praying.

REFLECTIONS
Doug has gotten acquainted with other kids with brain tumors through other caring bridge sites. Most of them are younger and go to St. Jude for treatment. Many have only a small chance for remission. Doug and I check these websites off and on. Doug got to know little 2 year old, Ben, through his website. He recognized Ben and his dad on a St. Jude t.v. appeal and was excited.

The other day Doug was going to check on Ben and I realized that it was time for me to tell him what I already knew.......that Ben's in hospice now and they don't know how long he will live....that they've done all they can for him. That was very sobering and sad for him and he asked why would God do something like that. I told him that there are no easy answers, that God did not do it, but allowed it and we don't know why. That children die every day and we just don't see it and we don't know why...., but that we do know that God can cause good to come out of every situation. I also said that I think we just don't realize how incredibly wonderful that heaven is. Our grief would be different even if we realized more what it is like, if we really trusted, and believed...but all we really know is this life, and we cling to it even though it is filled with pain, grief, sorrow, sin, destruction....and is so very tainted and messed up. Somehow it's in facing death that we can only really live. Read the family's journal who has a terminally ill child and you catch a scent of heaven, a taste of the divine, glimpse of real grace, brush of His touch, whisper of His voice. Now that's something good.

In His grace,

Debbi

P.S. If you're interested in Ben's story his website is www.bens-story.com

Thursday, January 6, 2005 10:19 PM CST

The last 2 days have been happily uneventful for Doug. He's been feeling o.k. and has gotten back into his routine of classes via speaker phone. After PT on Wednesday he still had some energy left. These seemingly small things are wonderful for Doug and for us.

However, our home must always have its share of excitement....so Rich had his friends over for an "Alias" premiere party last night. Then, we woke up in the middle of the night to find Robby very ill. He has a high fever with a tummy bug. I guess they just need to keep mom hopping in the nursing role. I must say that it's a nice change not to be focusing on Doug that way for the moment.

So, if you have checked this site very often you know the drill..............we need you to *PRAY that Doug does not get this "bug". Like my friend put it, "he's had his share of throwing up." Plus, his chemo begins again next week and a stomach bug would most likely delay that, and we need to stay on schedule.

*Also, pray that Rob will get better fast

Yet another opportunity to trust in God and not myself. With such daily threats, crises, fears, struggles etc. at some point I have just given up and given it over to Him. Just the thing that I've always wanted to do...trust God with all things on a daily basis. "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28

Resting in His Arms,

Debbi for all

Tuesday, January 4, 2005 3:48 PM CST

Last Wednesday Doug had a great time at SEA WORLD with Ryan and family. They went back today, using their free extra day pass. Robby got to go also. Ryan wheels Doug around in the wheelchair and they have a good time getting front row seats for wheelchair guests. ha But, seriously, using the wheelchair is the only way he could get around at a big park like that, and it's a real blessing. Doug has a soft spot for animals so he really enjoyed himself.

Tomorrow he will begin school again. He won't be going back to his regular middle school. He missed too many days not feeling well or with low counts. We are anticipating a repeat of that, so he'll take all his classes via the homebound program. He has 45 minute classes per subject using a speaker phone. He usually has about 3 or 4 other kids "in the class"-on the phone with him besides the teacher. Doug really enjoyed his classes last semester and did very well. They were impressed with him when he would "call in" from the hospital. We just haul his phone and books with him.

*Please continue to PRAY for Doug to gain weight. He has an appetite now, but his metabolism is even higher and it is hard to eat enough to gain a whole lot.

Thank you so much for praying. We appreciate you all!

Debbi

Saturday, January 1, 2005 9:18pm EST

GREAT NEWS!
*Doug's continued to feel good. Today he did some baseball batting and fielding practice with Mom, Dad, and Robby. It baffles me how hard he can still throw the ball, and he's hitting with his patch on!!

*Dec. 30, 2004
Today,Doug said that he had not felt this good since before his surgery. He had more energy today than he's had in 7 months. He wasn't even tired after PT. Also, he doesn't have to go back to the doctor until January 11! A nice break for him!!! Plus, his day ended with reading another special entry from San Diego in his guest book!:)

So, you can celebrate and give thanks with us!


PRAYER REQUESTS

* The biggest request now is for Doug to be able to gain weight over these "break" days. He's trying so hard and wants so badly to see victory in this area.


Thank you so much for praying. "On him we have set our hope that he will continue to deliver us, as you help us by your prayers." 2 Corinthians 1:10

It makes a difference!

Sincerely,

Debbi

Friday, December 24, 2004 6:19 PM CST

* (Dec.27)To add to Doug's elation: just want to let you all know that we had a very precious Christmas all together! Doug felt well!!! And, he ate well!!! Through the generosity of some very dear hearted people we were able to get Doug an electric scooter for his gift. It is an indescribable feeling that I have as I watch him zip around our cul-de-sac.....finally something that offers him a little freedom from his disabilities and suffering and the fun that healthy boys take for granted. We are so thankful. Thank you for rallying around him and praying with us. Please join with us in thanking the Lord for this special grace and mercy this Christmas. (Debbi)

Dec.24
Ime home for christmas yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Now thats a mery christmas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!




love Doug

Wednesday, December 22, 2004 7:14 PM CST

Dear friends,

Today I got sick and I need you guys all to pray that I dont get a fever or I have to go in the hospital probubly over christmas.Every one thankyou for writing in the guestbook and praying for me. Everyone who writes on the website inspires me and gives me more courage and strenth to get better. Almost every time when just 1 person writes on my guestbook sometimes I have more courage and have a better day than I would have.
Please pray that our whole family will get better from this bug we have.I think I might go back to my old school when they start back and when I feel better to see all the teachers and kids that new me and are praying for me. To all the peaple who wrote on my website have a merry christmas.



From Doug DeCola

Monday, December 20, 2004 3:24 PM CST

See journal history Dec 1 for explanation of pic above!

Yeah! Doug did not need anything--not a transfusion or more neupogen shots. His counts are on their way up! He's very happy. No other appointment until next week.

He actually went to a little Christmas party today and was having a really great day until he had some yucky candy. ha Oh well.

FUNNY STORY: A typical thing to happen at the DeCola household...one day this week I spilled some liquid medicine while trying to shake it up. Robby ran to protect Harper from it and quickly tied him to the first thing he saw--a light weight egg crate with a few office supplies in it. Harper pulled over the crate, got spooked, and started running through the house dragging the crate behind. Yep, you guessed it...he knocked over the Christmas tree! Mom was not very happy at first, but Harper was so traumatized and sorry looking that it quickly became another funny story. We should be on a sitcom.

We actually have a virus again at our house. So, WE NEED EXTRA PRAYER THAT DOUG WILL NOT CATCH THE VIRUS!!!!

Other praises
*Thanks to the elves who are helping us with some Chrismas related matters!!!


*PRAYER REQUESTS

*protection against infection

*continued need for appetite and keeping calories and nutrition

*for Doug's heart...he is weary of and sad about feeling sick all the time (He never really feels good, just better than other times)

* please keep praying for the health of our whole family

*Special desire/request: that Doug would feel better on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and have a great day!

Blessing to you all,

Debbi

Friday, December 17, 2004 10:14 PM CST

See Journal History Dec.1 for explanation of pic above!

Doug had a great day on Thursday! He woke up and read a very encouraging message in his guestbook.:) Also, Grandma B. flew in from Indiana. Then, he got some very yummy Chicago Italian Beef sandwiches sent to him in the mail from Grandma D.

At his doc appt. today his counts were even lower, but not enough to have to have a blood transfusion. So, he has to go back on Monday to get re-checked.

*PRAYER REQUESTS

*protection against infection

*for counts to come up on their own by Monday

*continued need for appetite and keeping calories and nutrition

*for Doug's heart...he is weary of and sad about feeling sick all the time (He never really feels good, just better than other times)

* please keep praying for my (debbi's) health...(I'm feeling a bit better)

*Special desire/request: that Doug would feel better on Christmas Eve and morning


Thank you so much for praying,

Debbi

Tuesday, December 14, 2004 3:47 PM CST

See journal history for explanation of pic above!

Doug had his weekly doc appointment today and was very relieved to find that he'd gained 1 1/2 lbs.! Before the appointment he was so nervous that he couldn't eat. Hmm, what's wrong with that picture?

His platlets were low so he has to go back Friday to get re-
checked and might need a transfusion. But, he said, "that's no big deal now". Amazing what a kid with cancer thinks is no big deal any longer. All of our perspectives have been changed a great deal.

Doug went to PT yesterday and did well. His endurance was down from all he's been through this last month. His therapist is so great and encouraging.

Praise

*Thanks for praying for Doug's eating...it's still hard, but he's had some good days!

*Thanks to some of you who have emailed or called us to ask how we're doing or what would help...it feels like CPR right now

*Thanks to our CURVES friends who are raising food and money for us!!!

Prayer Requests

*My (debbi's) health

*that Doug would continue to gain weight...be able to eat

*protection against infection

*continued need for rest and gained strength for all of us

*for Doug to be encouraged instead of nervous

Thank you so much for praying!!!!!

Debbi

Saturday, December 11, 2004 9:24 PM CST

See journal history for explanation of picture above!

The last couple of days have been a bit better for Doug! Please keep praying for his ability to eat and needed strength.

Today we went to Dr. Hajjar's oncology practice's Christmas party. The best part of the party was when 1)Doug got to throw a "pie" in Dr. Hajjar's face....that was funny and the doc is such a good sport! and 2)when Doug won a donated prize of a personal DVD/CD/MP3 player!!! Wow, that perked him up for quite awhile. And what a great thing for all his trips to the hospital, doctors, and tests!

All in all it has been a very hard, sad, and tiring week on us all, and we're glad it's through. Doug is through with his neupogen shots. Yeah! Thankfully, Rich is feeling better and Robby's leg is looking good too. Hopefully next week will be better.

PRAYER REQUESTS

*for my(Debbi) health

*rest and renewed strength for all of us

*that Doug will be able to keep in lots of calories

* that God will provide for our many needs in the midst of us feeling tired and overwhelmed


We need you. God answers prayer. Thank you for praying,

Debbi

Thursday, December 9, 2004 11:59 AM CST

See journal history for explanation of above picture!

Thankfully Robby's infection seems to be healing well and has not been contatious! On the other hand Rich is home from school with what seems like another virus.

Doug went with Rob and I to the play "A Christmas Carol" today. That was a welcome diversion. The theater was by the hospital, though, and it made him a bit queasy just to be that close to it. He's at physical therapy now. The PT has been interrupted by many hospital visits and low counts.

We are in a STRUGGLE to eat again since Doug's been feeling more nauseas again lately. Believe me this is a very sad,unpleasant, and tiring thing for us all. Ideally we'd want him to eat healthy foods, but we're thankful for anything he can keep down. You know your son is on chemo when you celebrate the fact that he ate a lot of Captain Crunch cereal for breakfast!

We are now giving Doug neupogen shots at home for 10 days after his in-patient therapy. The shots have worked and his blood cell counts are very high right now. The hope is that his counts will now not drop so dangerously low.

PRAYER REQUESTS

*rest and renewed strength for all of us

*that Doug will be able to keep in lots of calories

* that God will provide for our many needs in the midst of us feeling tired and overwhelmed

*that Rich will get well quickly and that the virus won't spread to anyone else!

Thanks,

Debbi

Monday, December 6, 2004 3:16 PM CST

See journal history for explanation of picture above! :)

Doug's been trudging along, dealing with the usual side effects from this last chemo plus some added nausea.

He was such a trooper on Friday. He felt horrible, but went to the radio interview at Magic 107.7 anyway. When the mike was put in front of him he just perked up and did a great job! Our picture is posted on their website. We had Harper with us in that tiny radio studio along with everyone else. He was very fun as usual. It was an encouraging experience.

On Saturday Doug supervised Nick and Rob putting up icicle lights on our house. (Usually Doug is up on the roof with them).Doug said it felt more like Christmas because it got pretty cold (57) On Sunday we were going to continue to decorate a bit, but ended up taking Robby to Urgent Care because he developed an infection in his leg. ugh

PRAYER REQUESTS

*rest and renewed strength for all of us

*that Rob's infection would heal completely and quickly...that it would not spread or end up being contagious

*that Doug will be able to keep in lots of calories

* that God will provide for our many needs in the midst of us feeling tired and overwhelmed

Thanks,

Debbi

Wednesday, December 1, 2004 10:39 PM CST

Doug is home on schedule and his 4th in-patient chemo cycle went very well! Thanks for praying.

He had a very exciting night tonight, one that he said "gave him a lot of energy."

If you remember back in July Doug's favorite band, SWITCHFOOT, called him, invited our family to their concert, met with us privately, and dedicated 2 songs to Doug at the concert. We had an unforgettable experience, one that continues to encourage the whole family as we still listen to their songs over and over. That concert was part of MTV Hard Rock Live concert series and exerpts from the concert aired tonight on MTV.

DOUG WAS SO TOUCHED AGAIN when he heard John(the lead singer)dedicate one of his favorite songs to him---but this time on t.v.!!!

John said, "this is for my friend Doug who is fighting for his life right now!" The song is entitled "More Than Fine". It talks about not giving up and not living in mediocrity. The song has inspired Doug on days when he's felt like giving up.....it's been especially inspirational after John's dedication.

In most of the pictures you see of Doug he is wearing a red and blue hat that the band gave to him with their logo on it.

The picture on this page is one that we took of the band and our boys that night before the concert.

We are again so thankful to SWITCHFOOT for their kindness and for going the extra mile to minister to Doug and our family. If you guys read this please know how much we appreciate you!

Thanks everyone for praying and for sharing in our joys as well as suffering.

Sincerely,

Debbi

P.S. Friday morning, Dec.3, at 8:15am Doug will be interviewed on the radio station, Magic 107.7 FM. It's for the Make-A-Wish fundraiser and he'll be talking about when they gave him Harper, our puppy.

Monday, November 29, 2004 2:56 PM CST

Hi this is Nick.

Thought I'd take a minute to update you on our journey. Its been awhile since we've been in touch.

Overall we had a wonderful holiday weekend. Very restful and a lot of good food. We were also able to reflect as a family about the many things we are thankful for in spite of the hardships. Very meaningful.

Doug is beginning to eat better- a real answer to prayer. He also participated for a brief time in a father-son football game and continued to look better and better at playing catch with dad.

Tomorrow he goes into the hospital for his fourth in-patient chemo cycle. If things go according to plan he should be released some time on Wednesday afternoon or evening.

Please pray that his treatment goes off without a hitch. We'll keep you posted. Thanks to all who are walking this road with us.

Nick for the "fam"

Tuesday, November 23, 2004 8:47 PM CST

Look at the new pics on "view photos"

Doug had his doc appt. today and his counts are great! He also did the long MRI today and was a trooper as usual and glad to be done.

We had a curve ball thrown at us today...a change in schedule for us. Somehow we did not get the "memo" that this chemo cycle is only 4 weeks instead of 6. That means that DOUG WILL GO BACK IN THE HOSPITAL NEXT TUESDAY for another round of in-patient chemo. This has its merits in that Doug will get this next round over sooner and way before Christmas. (He's very glad about that) Plus, that's just 2 less weeks of continued therapy over the long run.

The biggest issue that Doug's facing right now is eating and drinking. The doc gave him a good lecture about how he's going to have to really step it up because his body needs the nutrition to get through this. (You all know how hard it is to eat and drink when you don't "feel" like it)

*PLEASE PRAY THAT DOUG WILL TAKE IN A LOT OF CALORIES THIS NEXT WEEK AND THAT HE WILL DRINK A LOT OF FLUIDS (that he'll eat and drink by faith)

*The normal prayer requests stand also

We are very thankful for you all! A special thanks to our Life Group comrades who shared my tears Sunday night. Despite our "momentary troubles" we have so very much to be thankful for. God is very good to us. And, He is just plain good. When we have needed His grace and mercy the most that is when it's been given, and we see His goodness so clearly. Happy thanksgiving!

Sincerely,

Debbi for all

Sunday, November 21, 2004 11:07 AM CST

New Pics in "view photos"
Doug's having good and bad hours. He got to Robby's last Fall baseball game yesterday. He's still feeling more nauseas than he has in the last few months. He's feeling "unstable" today and had to leave church.

Same prayer requests

*Please pray that Doug's counts will recover fully quickly

*Please pray for our rest and sleep

*Please pray that Doug will stop being nauseas and will start eating well again!!!!!

*Pray for him to gain strength again

*Pray for protection against any other virus or bacteria

Thank you so much for your prayers and messages.
We appreciate you!

Debbi

Thursday, November 18, 2004 9:06 PM CST

Doug hung out at home again today and slept a lot. He got out and threw the baseball a little with Dad and Robby. Rob got back into the swing of things today.

Mom and Dad are still exhausted. It's one of those days when we have to put one foot in front of the other. Thanks to the friends who are lightening our load with some help with meals and laundry.

Prayer Requests

*Please pray that Doug's counts will recover fully quickly

*Please pray for our rest and sleep

*Please pray that Doug will stop being nauseas and will start eating well again!!!!!

*Pray for him to gain strength again

*Pray for protection against any other virus or bacteria

Thank you so much for your prayers and messages.
We appreciate you!

Debbi

Wednesday, November 17, 2004 6:45 PM CST

Doug had a better day at home today. He got outside in the neighborhood for a little while and shot a few hoops, and he threw the ball to Harper in the field. (Harper is a fast puppy!) It was perfect weather.

Rob is slowly feeling better. Each of them takes up a couch in the family room. I am the nurse. The nurse made them go outside. :)

Same requests as yesterday:
*Please pray that Doug's counts will recover fully quickly

*Please pray for our rest and sleep

*Please pray that Doug will stop being nauseas and will start eating well again!!!!!

*Pray for him to gain strength again

*Pray for protection against any other virus or bacteria

Thank you so much for your prayers and messages.
We appreciate you!

Debbi

Tuesday, November 16, 2004 10:05 PM CST

GOOD NEWS
Doug is home. He's very happy to be here and relieved to be home already! His counts came up enough for him to leave. Also, his last MRI was clear. Thank God for all of this!

NOT SO GOOD NEWS
He's still feeling pretty badly. We're all exhausted. He's still neutropenic-meaning his counts are low...just not bottomed out. Rob is on anti-biotics in case he has strep throat. He's still feeling badly.

*Please pray that Doug's counts will recover fully quickly

*Please pray for our rest and sleep

*Please pray that Doug will stop being nauseas and will start eating well again!!!!!

*Pray for him to gain strength again

*Pray for protection against any other virus or bacteria

Thank you so much for your prayers and messages. One thing Doug did do quickly when he got home was go right to the computer to check the site.

We appreciate you!

Debbi

Monday, November 15, 2004 10:30 PM CST

HOSPITAL DAY 2 NIGHT 3

Doug had an up and down day, but I don't think he had a fever most of the day. Again, excellent nursing staff! Plus, the doc says that something in his blood tests are indicating that his white cells will be coming up soon. Hopefully he'll sleep better tonight.

The highlight was when his friend, Ryan, came to visit tonight. Doug was actually smiling, laughing, and making jokes again. Ryan is much more fun than Mom or Dad. Hospitals are pretty boring in general.

*Continue to pray for his recovery

*We really need his appetite to increase again and have him eating and drinking well

*Please continue to pray for our strength, and faith, and endurance

*Please pray for the boys at home (Robby was very sick today) Dustin and Rich didn't get to see Mom at all. Harper just wonders what's going on. :)

Thank you so much for all your prayers! Thanks to those who have written messages too.

Debbi

Sunday, November 14, 2004 9:11 PM CST

See journal history for what happened last night.

Doug's sick and in the hospital. The phone and room number are below.

He's on a boatload of meds. Whew! We were correct. They gave him a couple of anti-biotics, and he got a blood transfusion today. Plus, they're giving him a drug to help his body produce more white blood cells. His fever's been going up an down, but not too high. He's having trouble eating and drinking cause he's nauseas, and just feeling cruddy off and on.

But, all in all it was a peaceful day at the hospital. The staff is terrific! Plus, Doug and I got to watch the Packers beat the Vikings! Yeah! (Dad took a break at home)

I think that the criteria for Doug coming home will be no fever for 48 hours, and his white cell count has to come up above 250. So, we're thinking several days and hoping for less.

We're thinking that he got a virus that Rich had last week, and now Robby seems to have it too....he now has a fever!

*Please continue to pray that he'll feel better soon

(Will you pray that Robby will feel better soon too. Hard for Mom to be in 2 places at once- hospital and home...and my sons want their mom when they're feeling badly. Sound familiar to everyone?)

*Pray that his fever will go away and his white cells will come up

*Continue to pray for all of us...for strength, wisdom, and endurance, and for us to rest in the Lord

One sweet thing-an answer to prayer. Doug had so dredded getting his first blood transfusion, and he's done very well to not need one up to this point. But, by this time when he needed it he was actually wanting it!

As always, thanks for your prayers and support. We need it. Also, Doug can check this site at the hospital, so please keep on typing in those messages!

Sincerely

Debbi

Saturday, November 13, 2004 7:18 PM CST

Sun, Nov.14 10:33am

Update this morning. Doug's feeling
slightly better after having anti-biotics and tylenol. He'll be there awhile so that they can figure out what's causing the fever. He has great nurses! ER=nightmare as usual. But, he's settled now. Pray for rest for all of us, wisdom, strength, endurance! THANKS! (rm # below...if calling call ext.1224...he would love calls!)

Sat. Nov.13 @8pm
URGENT REQUEST!

Nick just took Doug to the ER. His white cells are almost 0 and he got a fever.

We're expecting him to get IV fluids, maybe anti-biotics, and maybe a blood transfusion.

He's very sad. Please pray for his spirits and for him to trust the Lord with this new challenge.

Please pray specifically for a quick admission to the peds floor. Pray for good nurses that will not only do a good job acessing his port, but will be encouraging. Pray for a quick recovery. Pray for Nick, too.

Thank you,

Debbi

Saturday, November 13, 2004 1:50 PM CST

It's been a hard week. Doug's felt pretty badly, very low counts, fatigue, some nausea...and he's a bummed out boy to be feeling badly again after feeling a bit better for awhile.

He did go to physical therapy on Thursday for half the scheduled time. Then, he had a dredded MRI on Friday. And, he went to Rob's baseball game today.

But, he has a 3 hour MRI scheduled for tomorrow.

*PLEASE PRAY FOR PROTECTION...THAT HE WILL NOT GET ANY INFECTION

*Pray for the MRI!

(They messed up and were supposed to divide the time into 2 hours for one and 2 hours for the other. Instead they did 30 minutes Friday and now will do 3 hours Sunday. ugh)

*Please pray that he will feel better again

Thank you so much for praying! Please keep writing in this journal. He checks it frequently and loves your messages!

Debbi

Wednesday, November 10, 2004 7:29 AM CST

The weekly trip to the doc yesterday revealed that Doug's blood counts are now dangerously low. This happened much quicker than the other cycles. When we asked the nurse why she said that the particular drug he had was the "big gun". Ugh.

He is really fatigued....wanting to do things like his homework, but just too tired. He's staying home from class today. We're laying low.

*PLEASE PRAY THAT HE WILL NOT GET ANY VIRUS OR INFECTION!!!!

*PRAY THAT HIS COUNTS WILL RECOVER ON THEIR OWN

*PRAY for his heart...it's hard to feel so crummy again after feeling a bit better

Thank you,

Debbi

Monday, November 8, 2004 1:04 PM CST

Doug is having some hours of feeling better and then he has some hours of feeling crummy again.

He went to class this morning and did his classes at home.

Yesterday Harper was so affectionate and sweet with him that it started making him feel better. He says that Harper gives him energy! So, he came outside and played catch with his dad. He even pitched some. Nick and I had to catch our breath. It was so amazing. It was one of those moments when God's grace was palpable!

Doug hasn't played baseball in over 6 months and he started missing it. He said it was really fun throwing the ball again. He asked his dad if he thought after this cancer is over that he could get back to the point he used to be at with playing ball. That's significant because it shows us that he's seeing a light at the end of this very long tunnel.

"NOW FAITH IS BEING SURE OF WHAT WE HOPE FOR AND CERTAIN OF WHAT WE DO NOT SEE." Hebrews 11:1

*Your prayers make a difference...please keep it up! We are so greatful!

Debbi

Sunday, November 7, 2004 8:02 AM CST

DOUG IS FEELING AWFUL... HE'S ASKING FOR PRAYER!

He did really well at the hospital, but he is having the usual side effects of jaw pain, back and neck soreness, nausea off and on, and extreme fatigue. Think TMJ, the flu, and mono all at once. He said it seems more intense this time.

Please pray that these symptoms would go away quickly and that he will not get terribly discouraged.

He's had to miss a couple of things already that he really wanted to do, and that's hard.

Harper is still making him smile, though! (See the picture in photos)

Thanks,

Debbi

Thursday, November 4, 2004 4:24 PM CST

Dear friends, This is Doug talking and I had a good stay at the hospital.Right now I dont feel any side affects of the chemo but i'm pretty shure I will later on in the week. I got back from the hospital at 200pm today, a lot earlier than I expected. I have a lot of energy today but I am very tired from not sleeping well at the hospital.
Thanks for your support and prayers. I really appreciate it.
Doug

Wednesday, November 3, 2004 12:05 AM CST

DOUG IS IN THE HOSPITAL (Florida South)

His number is 407-303-5600 ext. 1225

We checked in Tuesday afternoon and he began his first big chemo dose last night. Then he gets lots and fluids and gets another dose tonight. If all goes very well he could get out by Thursday.

He's doing really well so far. He started doing some homework about 15 minutes after we got him settled. Ryan is with him this afternoon! As I write this he's doing his geography class via phone.

We are so proud of him!

PLEASE CONTINUE TO PRAY THAT THIS ROUND OF CHEMO GOES WELL!

For those of you who haven't seen last weekend's news I'm adding it to this entry. It's a landmark for us.


Monday, November 1, 2004 7:33 AM CST

DOUG HAD A GREAT WEEKEND!!!!

But, he's too tired to write himself and tell you. This is why: On Friday night he went to half of the varsity football game and then Ryan spent the night.

Saturday morning he had to get up early because his lacrosse game was at 9am. DOUG GOT INTO THE LACROSSE GAME AND PLAYED IN TWO DIFFERENT CHUNKS OF TIME!!! He had one shot on goal, but missed. It was a huge victory for him to play in the game. It was something done by faith. He was nauseas out in the hot sun, but he hung in there. For Doug it was bitter sweet because on the one hand it was encouraging to meet that goal and take that step of playing . But, on the other hand it showed him just how difficult it is for him to do something that only 5 months ago was fun and easy. (Remember he's learning to run again.)

He came home and rested and then went to Robby's baseball game and felt sore, but fine. Robby got a home run in his game!

That night we celebrated Doug's victory at a resturant of his choice. He still felt fine!

Then, after going to church on Sunday, later that night he went trick or treating with Robby and friends. I couldn't believe how far he walked! I was tired! I guess he was motivated by all the candy they got!

So, you can thank God with us for some significant victories (including his A in his lang. arts class)!!


Thanks,

Debbi

P.S. When Doug saw the eye doc yesterday and we told him that Doug played lacrosse on Saturday he said, "WOW". Doug still has double vision and patches one eye so he can see single images. The doc said that he must be compensating really well.

Monday, November 1, 2004 7:33 AM CST

DOUG HAD A GREAT WEEKEND!!!!

But, he's too tired to write himself and tell you. This is why: On Friday night he went to half of the varsity football game and then Ryan spent the night.

Saturday morning he had to get up early because his lacrosse game was at 9am. DOUG GOT INTO THE LACROSSE GAME AND PLAYED IN TWO DIFFERENT CHUNKS OF TIME!!! He had one shot on goal, but missed. It was a huge victory for him to play in the game. It was something done by faith. He was nauseas out in the hot sun, but he hung in there. For Doug it was bitter sweet because on the one hand it was encouraging to meet that goal and take that step of playing . But, on the other hand it showed him just how difficult it is for him to do something that only 5 months ago was fun and easy. (Remember he's learning to run again.)

He came home and rested and then went to Robby's baseball game and felt sore, but fine. Robby got a home run in his game!

That night we celebrated Doug's victory at a resturant of his choice. He still felt fine!

Then, after going to church on Sunday, later that night he went trick or treating with Robby and friends. I couldn't believe how far he walked! I was tired! I guess he was motivated by all the candy they got!

So, you can thank God with us for some significant victories (including his A in his lang. arts class)!!


He goes into the hospital tomorrow (Tuesday) for a longer round of chemo. He will stay 2 nights, maybe 3. PLEASE PRAY FOR THIS TREATMENT TO GO WELL.

Thanks,

Debbi

Friday, October 29, 2004 1:26 PM CDT

Hi Everybody,

We had to put a new picture up on this page because we were so tired of the old one. You can tell here that Harper loves Doug.

Doug wanted me to tell you that Ryan's coming to the high school football game (Rich's game) with him tonight, spending the night, and then going to watch Doug PLAY in tomorrow's lacrosse game. It's the last game of the Fall season. Our goal was to get him in there once for a little playing time. Please pray for this.

Also, Doug was really excited to get his report card from school and to see that he got an A in his class! (language arts) This is a very, very meaningful A for us :) I think it represents Doug's courage and his daily walk by faith.

Doug's counts went up enough for him to start cycle #3 next week. He'll go into the hospital on Tuesday and be there until Thursday or Friday. He'll be getting a different kind of drug this time. Please pray for this whole process.

He's been doing really well. You all are a part of this! Thank you for your prayers! We need you to help us keep praying!

Sincerely,

Debbi

Sunday, October 24, 2004 5:27 PM CDT

From Debbi:

Doug is really excited about the Red Sox!!! We became Red Sox fans years ago because our good friend, Walt, is the chaplain for the team. He called from Fenway Park and talked to Doug today!

Last Friday Doug went to lacrosse practice again. He came home saying how fun it was. He scrimmaged with the team and this time HE checked someone else. The coach is letting him practice with the 6th graders since they're not quite as big and strong. Doug is still 13 lbs lighter than he was last year, and he's still learning to run again. His balance is improving, but still needs work.

Doug helped with Robby's birthday (#9)party last night. It was a camp-out in the back yard:) He also went to half of Rich's last JV game on Thursday night. They ended the season 5-1. He has 2 more varsity games to play.

Nick is traveling this week for the first time since Doug was diagnosed. It's only 2 days, but you can pray for us during that time. We've got some sickness going around in the family. So, please keep praying that Doug will be protected, and that his blood counts will recover completely on their own.

Thanks a lot!!!

Wednesday, October 20, 2004 7:06 PM CDT

From Debbi:

Wanted to say that Doug is excited about the Red Sox!!!! But, he's already asleep so he'll have to find out about the outcome tomorrow.

He practice with his lacrosse team in pads today and he mentioned to me that he "got checked". I said " you got checked!!!!...that's awesome!!!!" He got a big grin on his face and said "yea". "And were you o.k.?", I said. "Yea, I was fine!"

For those of you who aren't sure,yes, getting checked in lacrosse is similar to getting checked in hockey. Then maybe you are wondering why is Doug's MOM excited about him getting checked? Is she crazy? Well, you CAN tell I'm a mom of all boys. But, especially with Doug it's just another small step back to health, back to some sort of normalcy, back to something that he loves and enjoys, back to being a rough and tumble athlete instead of a fragile and sick patient. Think Lance Armstrong comeback!!!

We're going to still have many ups and downs, but it sure is fun to celebrate the smallest of ups:) Wanted to let you in on that.

Thanks for your continued prayers!!

Tuesday, October 19, 2004 8:58 PM CDT

Hi Everyone,

Doug has been doing great lately! He's been going to his class,doing his schoolwork, eating well, and he even made it to half of Rich's varsity football game Monday night. He's excited about the Red Sox comeback (of course we don't know about tonight's game yet)

He did well at physical therapy today, and his next doctor appt. is Thursday morning. We're learning how to pace him a little bit so he doesn't get overly tired.

He is so thankful for your prayers and loves reading his guestbook at this website.

You can continue to pray for continued protection against viruses and that he will gain strength and balance.

Wanted to say thanks for praying. Nick and I got our flu shots!!!

Sincerely,

Debbi

Saturday, October 16, 2004 7:57 AM CDT

Dear friends, this is Doug talking and I have had a good week this week,thankyou every one who wrote on the website. Since my last app. my blood counts went up a little. So please keep praying that my counts go up even more.

The days are getting cooler and its very nice out in the middle of the day. My appetite is back and I am gaining weight.My mom and dad say I am doing good gaining weight and taking my medicine. It seems like I am never going to be free from cancer, but I know that one day I wont have cancer any more.

today I am going to Robbys baseball game and my big brother who made JV football in high school got moved up to varcity yesterday. So I am really happy and excited to see a varcity game with my brother playing in the game.

please every one keep writing and then I will write more
From Doug

Tuesday, October 12, 2004 7:58 PM CDT

From Debbi

Doug had a good weekend. He went to Robby's baseball game and out to Chili's for dinner! Had some queasiness on Sunday at church, but recovered and was excited to be treated to Boston Market by Uncle Ric afterward.

He didn't go to his class at school on Monday, but went today and did well. We're hoping that his white cells have come up. He gets checked again this Thursday and I think his friend, Ryan, might go with him. That always makes an appointment more fun:)

Doug has been enjoying showing everyone the taped news story about him and Harper. One thing that he did not enjoy was the Packers embarrassing loss last night. But, you should see Harper (Doug's puppy) in his Brett Favre jersey! That dog makes us laugh! We'll post a picture when we get it.

Thanks to everyone who responded and signed the journal again recently. Thank you for your specific prayers about his blood counts. Acually, the doctor was a little surprised that he did not need a transfusion.

*You can continue to pray for protection against infection and pray that his counts will recover completely on their own in this 2nd cycle

*Pray that Nick and I will get flu shots soon...we need them as precaution for Doug...and it's turning out to be kind of a hassle trying to get them (The other boys had them as soon as possible...thanks to our beloved pediatrician Dr. Casler)

Friday, October 8, 2004 7:43 AM CDT

Hello friends, it's Doug and today I don't have to go to the hospital today.God answered my prayer! I didn't have to get a transfusion. All they gave me were fluids through my IV. So thank you for praying!

I kinda blanked out yesterday, got dizzy, and fell so I had to go to the cancer center to get my blood counts checked. I thought I was going to have to stay for a long time, but I didn't. My white cells are really low still so please pray that I won't get a fever or get sick in any way. And pray for my blood counts to keep going up so I can go back to school.

Today I'm feeling better and I'm happy to not have to go to the hospital!

Two days ago I was on t.v. A local news station did a story about me getting my dog, Harper and how Make-A-Wish gave him to me. We taped it. Also, you can go to WESH.com and click on Positively Central Florida. They may have a web link of the story.

Thanks!

Wednesday, October 6, 2004 8:13 AM CDT

Dear friends this is Doug talking,yesterday I had my last chemo for this cycle of chemo. The bad thing is my counts are almost at 0 and I hav to go back to the doctors on Friday and the doctors have to check my counts. If my counts are good I can just go home and it wont be a big deal. But if my counts are lower I have to get some kind of transfusion. I need all the people on the website to pray that my counts get higher. I am feeling fine other than my counts are low. I am not going to school I think the rest of the week because I have a little sore throat and if I go to school and get sick im probubly going to be in the hospital.

My grandma came yesterday so I am excited about that. So I guess im asking all of you to pray that on Friday my counts are high so I can get back to school and feel better.

Monday, October 4, 2004 9:20 AM CDT

Hi Friends,

Sorry its been awhile since we've been in touch. Our internet isn't working at home. We had a good weekend. It was great to not have a hurricane to deal with.

Doug's been pretty active. With the DeCola's there always seem to be a lot of sports activities. He went to watch big brother Rich play football on Thursday nite (they won), attended his lacrosse team's game on Saturday morning (they lost) and watched little brother Robby's baseball game on Saturday afternoon (they won). Of course he was really sad to see the Packers lose again yesterday. Oh well.

The last couple days Doug hasn't been feeling great. He's had some headaches and his throat is sore. He has been going to school though and really been trying not to let it get him down.

Tomorrow we'll go in for another outpatient chemo dose and to have his counts checked. After that he'll get a four week break from treatments though he will need an MRI during that time. We'll let you know how it goes.

Doug is in the time frame of his chemo cycle where he is most susceptible to getting sick. So, please pray that the Lord protects him. Also, pray that his headaches would stop and that he will be able to continue to be active.

On a bright note, Grandma Baldwin will be coming to visit from Indiana tomorrow. We are looking forward to seeing her. She will be with us for 10 days.

Thanks again. We love and appreciate you.

Nick for the DeCola's

Wednesday, September 29, 2004 5:12 PM CDT

Hello Friends,

This is Nick. Well, we made it through hurricane Jeanne just fine. Other then some really stressful moments we suffered only some broken panels on our porch screens. We are grateful. So many others have suffered such heartache with these hurricanes over the last six weeks.

Overall, Doug is doing well. He received his outpatient chemo treatment yesterday and his blood counts looked really good (he was super happy about that). He has been a little nauseous and didn't feel particularly well over the weekend. He was only able to stay at his friend's b-day party for a short time.

He went back to school today (along with the rest of the Orlando area).

You can pray for:

-Us as a family. Like so many around us we are really tired from all the hurricane related stuff.

-For Doug to continue to tolerate his chemo fairly well. That he would eat well and begin to actually put on some weight. He is holding steady at about 18-20 lbs. less then his pre-surgery weight.

-Of course, for the chemo to have the desired effect of healing him from cancer.

-Pray that he would try "new" things as he is able.

Thanks for walking this journey with us. We appreciate you.

Nick

Saturday, September 25, 2004 10:35 AM CDT

Dear friends, This is Doug writing and I want to tell you I am still in pain today from my jaw and throat, but other than that I am doing allright. On Tuesday I go to the hospital and get my chemo again. Please pray that my counts are high and that I feel good on Tuesday. Today I was supposed to have a lacrosse game but I feel to bad to go today.

Today I hope to go to a birthday party but well see how I feel. I hope I feel good tonight because I think our family is going mini golfing.

Thursday, September 23, 2004 10:23 PM CDT

False info. Doug's story got bumped again. The reporter said it could be this Friday, but can you believe it????? there's another hurricane headed our way, so we're sure it won't be this Friday either.

Doug is experiencing some of the same side effects from the chemo that he did last time. He's exhausted, slightly nauseas and has throat and jaw pain. It didn't take too long to go away last time, so we're hoping that will be the case again.

He's such a trooper! He went to school this morning, phoned in for both classes today, and even went to physical therapy when he was feeling wiped out. I'm so proud of him!

He stayed home with some friends tonight while we attended Rich's second football game. They won 19-0. Rich's having a great time playing center!

Please keep praying for Doug and pray for us. We're beginning to feel overwhelmed again, and that's before we heard about the new path of this hurricane.

Thank you,

Debbi

Wednesday, September 22, 2004 12:05 AM CDT

DOUG WILL BE ON TV TONIGHT!

DOUG IS HOME FROM THE HOSPITAL! The treatment went well. He slept pretty well while he was receiving the chemo itself. He even called into 2 of his phone classes while he was at the hospital.

He got home less than 24 hours after he left, so we are very, very thankful. He is very tired, and extremely glad and relieved to be home again.

You may remember that the local t.v. station (NBC affiliate, channel 2) did a story about Doug's Make-A-Wish wish. They were here when Doug was surprised with his puppy, Harper, and did some interviews with him and us. When the story was scheduled to air it got bumped because of Hurricane Charley coverage. Now, the news reporter just emailed us and said that it's re-scheduled for tonight.

PRAYER REQUESTS

*Please pray that his recovery during this cycle #2 out of 9 will go very well.

*Pray that he'll be able to get back into his routine right away because it is good for him

*Pray that he will be protected from illness

Thanks,

Debbi

Tuesday, September 21, 2004 10:35 PM CDT

DOUG IS HOME FROM THE HOSPITAL! The treatment went well. He slept pretty well while he was receiving the chemo itself. He even called into 2 of his phone classes while he was at the hospital.

He got home less than 24 hours after he left, so we are very, very thankful. He is very tired, and extremely glad and relieved to be home again.

*Please pray that his recovery during this cycle #2 out of 9 will go very well.

*Pray that he'll be able to get back into his routine right away because it is good for him

*Pray that he will be protected from illness

Thanks,

Debbi

Sunday, September 19, 2004 8:44 PM CDT

Doug goes into the hospital tomorrow afternoon. It takes at least 24 hours to get this chemo via his port. (This begins cycle #2 out of 9) If all goes well he'll only be there one night.

Maybe you can imagine that he does not look forward to these hospital visits. It's the uncertainty that lies just beneath the surface of the "plan". He's had a hospital procedure go awry before, ended up having to stay a whole week, and he will tell you that that week was "the worst". It's not unreasonable to have doubts and fears.

PLEASE PRAY!!!!

*that he will not get nauseas

*that everything will go smoothly and quickly (quickly on hospital time is so different than on the outside world :)

*that he will sense the Lord's presence and care for him


*that God will use these treatments to get rid of any hint of a cancer cell...that he will be healing

*that he will feel well enough this week on Wednesday to enjoy spending time with his cousins in town from Chicago (he's looking forward to that a lot)

*for our hearts as we continue this long, long journey

We need and depend upon your prayers and support. Thank you so much,

Debbi

Thursday, September 16, 2004 10:53 AM CDT

Hi Friends,

I trust you enjoyed hearing from Doug in the last journal entry. Well, we've certainly had a quieter week. Hurricane Ivan steered clear of Central Florida and though we kept the boards up on our windows, we were spared, other than abnormally cloudy skies, any ill effects from the storm.

Doug is having a good week. He's gone to school each day and yesterday wore his lacrosse pads at practice for the first time. That's real progress. Deb made a device which allows him to wear his chest and shoulder pads without rubbing against his port-a-cath.

Big brother Rich has his first football game tonite after having his first two games cancelled due to weather. He is chomping at the bit to get out there in a real game situation. Rob will have his first baseball game of the fall this Saturday. And, Doug's lacrosse team will play for the second time this week. He has not seen any game action yet but definitely feels a part of things. Many thanks to Coach McCall and the other coaches who have made Doug feel so welcome.

Next week Doug begins his second big chemo cycle. So, that means a hospital admission. He's scheduled to go in late Monday morning. Hopefully we'll be in touch before then.

Thanks again for following Doug's journey- your prayers and support. God bless!

Nick for the fam

Sunday, September 12, 2004 7:44 AM CDT

Dear friends, This is Doug talking and I am doing well. My counts are higher and I feel good. I had my first lacrosse game yesterday and it was pretty fun. Our jerseys are like football jerseys. A lady who had cancer the other day on Friday she died. And thats sad and happy because she had to go through what I had to go through and she is free from cancer now.

Pray that when I go back to school I dont have a cold. And that my next hospital stay will go fast. I am really excited that I dont have to go to the hospital for 2 weeks and I dont have to go back for blood counts or anything.

Every one please keep writing because it really encoureges me. From Doug DeCola

Thursday, September 9, 2004 8:13 PM CDT

GREAT NEWS!
Doug's counts were totally up today...so much so that he doesn't even have to go back next week to get blood levels checked. So he gets a week totally off of everything. We were very, very excited and encouraged. He also gained back a pound. I think this news has made his throat feel better.:)

Sad news
This summer Doug was introduced to a dear cancer fighting comrade ( Tobi,mother of 4 young kids). The only thing is that we knew at that time that she had little time to live. But, she bought us lunch, sat across from us and she related to Doug, listened to him (the first person he really felt could understand), laughed with us, prayed with us, and encouraged Doug on his journey. I remember when we said good-bye that she said something like..."there is light at the end of the tunnel for us...mine's just a little brighter." We grieve for the loss of a friend, wife, and mother. We rejoice that what is mortal has been swallowed up in life now.

This is just another part of the world we have entered...to get to know others who are suffering and fighting and to know the loss of some of them. God's grace is sufficient.

If you are so inclined please pray for Tobi's family.

Please keep praying that Doug will recover from this virus (sore throat, stuffy nose) that he has.

We have noticed that most people are very weary here in Florida due to hurricane related stress...please pray for us all.

Thank you,

Debbi

Wednesday, September 8, 2004 8:04 PM CDT

The boys are going back to school finally tomorrow. We're all very tired from the hurricane related activities and stress.

Unfortunately Doug has a sore throat and stuffy nose back again and it has really bothered him today. Please pray for him. He goes into the doc tomorrow to get his blood levels checked and he's concerned that his counts might be so low that he will need a blood transfusion.

Being sick on top of having chemo....well, I just can't imagine how yucky it is. He doesn't complain nearly as much as I probably would.

Pray that he gets over being sick so he can go back to his class at school, also.

If he needs a transfusion please pray that God will protect him and that it will go well.

We are on week 5 of his 6 week cycle. That puts his next regular hospital admission in the week of Sept. 20-24. His counts have to be high enough to start another cycle.

Aunt Nancy and fam will be coming to visit that week. They're going on a Disney Cruise. Hey, Aunt Nancy...did you know it's hurricane season!???! :)

Thanks for your love and prayers.

In His grace,

Debbi

Monday, September 6, 2004 3:46 PM CDT

Well I see that in Nick's last entry he got his hurricanes mixed up. The first one was Charley. This last one that is just now ending is Frances, and the next potential one is Ivan. ha

We're fine. Our area ended up getting only tropical storm force winds (@ 60mph) instead of hurricane winds plus a lot of rain, but no flooding. We only lost power for a couple of hours. We're dealing with tornado warnings now.....spawned from the hurricane. We only had a little screen and tree damage again.

We're pretty tired from the labor of preparation and the stress of being on constant alert. We're leaving our boards up in case Ivan hits us too.

Do I still love Florida? Yes. I guess because I have hope that this won't happen again for a long time. Most Floridians say this has never happened before in their lifetime.

Plus, Doug is doing fine. Even though his counts are very, very low and Rich has a bad cold virus...so far Doug is fine, and his sore throat has gone away!

The kids are out of school once again...hopefully not as long this time.

Please keep praying for us and for Doug. We need it and appreciate it!!!

Love,

Debbi

Friday, September 3, 2004 8:38 PM CDT

Hello Friends,

Well, we hope we're prepared for Charley. Right now the forecast is for sustained winds of 75+ MPH lasting for around 8-10 hours. We'd appreciate your prayers a whole lot. The brunt of the storm is scheduled to hit the Orlando area some time tomorrow nite. So, if we're not in touch for a while it might be that we're occupied with other things this next week. We'll do our best to keep you posted just as soon as we can.

As far as Doug, we continue to learn a lot. Not unexpectedly, his counts dipped again this week. Since his white blood cell count is low, he is more susceptible to getting sick. His weight was down a bit as well so he has redoubled his efforts the last couple days in trying to eat more food with lots of calories. Wouldn't you love that assignment?

Well, gotta run. We appreciate all of you. So does Doug- a whole lot.

Nick for the fam

Wednesday, September 1, 2004 9:49 PM CDT

Greetings Friends,

Doug's had a more difficult week. He's battled a sore throat and been tired. Since his immunities are low we've kept him home from his one class at the middle school. However, he has been able to take his other classes via speaker phone at home.

He'll go in for his weekly doctor's appointment and blood test tomorrow. Thankfully he's got another three weeks to recover until his next round of chemo begins.

Please pray that Doug will get over this little bug, that he will be able to take his numerous pills without throwing up and that he will start eating more (after getting more of an appetite back, this week its been harder for him to eat again).

Perhaps a more pressing issue for our family as I write to you tonite is our preparation for the onset of hurricane Frances on the state of Florida (this is especially for those not in the Southeastern US). Currently the storm track has Frances coming right thru Central Florida and Orlando with sustained winds of up to 100 MPH. After having endured hurricane Charley three weeks ago (you may remember that we were grateful to have sustained only minor damage)we are bracing for the worst- which means flashlights, bottled water, can goods, and the multitude of decisions relative to keeping the family and our home as safe as possible.

Please pray that the Lord would do the miraculous and demonstrate his power by turning Frances away from land and back out to sea. This storm is going to be devestating wherever it comes ashore.

Thanks as always for your continued encouragement, prayers and support.

Nick for the DeCola's

Sunday, August 29, 2004 10:49 AM CDT

Doug had a very good second first week of school. He even had one day of queaziness in the morning, but made it to his morning class at the middle school anyway!! At his Thursday Doc appt. for a "push" of chemo through his port and blood counts he lost 2 lbs. , but his counts were o.k. It's in the third week of these 6 week cycles that they usually see the blood counts bottom out. We think that the reason that he lost weight is that he's exercising more. He's eating pretty normally now. I guess we have to get him to "chow down" more.

He went to lacrosse practice again and bravely tried on his equipment. There was concern that the pads would hurt his port and that the helmet would hurt his head by his incision site. The helmet was o.k., but a little too big. The pads did hurt his port, so we are going to try and make some sort of contraption to keep the pad away from the port.

He also attended Rich's first JV football game...a JV/Varsity scrimmage! Rich was moved from offensive guard to center. It was fun to see Rich out there again because he really loves it. His leg is doing fine now.

Another thing that Doug's been enjoying is instant messaging on the computer. It's been fun for him to be in contact with friends that way. He really gets a kick out of it.

PLEASE PRAY

*continue to pray that Doug will not get an infection...he had a slight sore throat the other day and the rest of us are feeling a little under-the-weather

*pray that he'll be able to gain weight again

*pray that during these 3 weeks "off" of chemo that he'll get stronger

*as always pray that the cancer will not return

PRAISE

*for the most part Doug's spirits are much better!!!!

*that he's not gotten a virus or infection up to this point

*that he's been brave enough to go out there and try lacrosse even with all the challenges that he has

Thank you so much for your interest and prayers!

Please keep signing the guestbook. We love it!

Sincerely,

Debbi

Wednesday, August 25, 2004 7:50 AM CDT

Doug and his brothers started back to school again yesterday after the hurricane. It's like starting over.

Harper (our new "Make-a-Wish" puppy) has been very fun. He is full of love and puppy playfulness. His tail never stops wagging and he keeps us laughing. He likes to chase toads and lizards outside, and we're working on his training. He is definitely part of the family now. (another boy for me to love on :))...and a very good boost for the whole family.

Doug had an evaluation for physical therapy Monday, and is looking forward to working on balance and strength. He's been sore from lacrosse practice. Those muscles need to get working again.

I'm posting a few new pics of Harper and of Doug on his first day of school.

*Please keep praying that Doug will not get any virus

*Pray that he'll be able to take the medicine that he needs to...it's very difficult

*Pray that he will make progress in physical therapy and gets stronger

*Pray that he will continue to have a good appetite and not be nauseas

*Pray that his brain will heal

Thanks!

Debbi

Friday, August 20, 2004 9:59 PM CDT

DOUG'S STATUS

It's very nice to report that Doug is doing pretty well right now. He's eating normally!! He still gets tired easily, but he's done some great things...some average middle school boy things lately --like had his friend Ryan spend the night. (Ryan still didn't have power after the hurricane and he was basking in our air conditioning). Doug actually went to Lacrosse practice today. Of course he just does what he can, but he's there! He went over to a friend's house today to swim. And, he's actually sleeping really well! He was really interested in taking in his big brother's 16th birthday party tonight and laughing while he opened his presents with his crazy friends. He's also looking forward to physical therapy soon.:)

HOW ARE WE?

Life is never never dull here. Lots of crazy and fun things are going on, and it's been a blessing that our focus has been less on Doug. The hurricane brought us craziness, no school, off schedule just when we were trying to establish a schedule. The puppy keeps us laughing and keeps us busy. We've been meeting new neighbors and doing lots of settling in stuff that's both fun and crazy. Having 13 high school kids for Rich's 16th b-day tonight is fun and crazy too. And, my good friend Betsy surprised me and flew in from Massachusetts for a visit!!! So, I'll let you know when I really reflect on "how we're doing"...ha.

Thank you so much for your prayers!!! We are so grateful to God for answering us in many ways. By the way...did we tell you that Doug's MRI's came out clear!!!!

Thanks again,

Debbi

Wednesday, August 18, 2004 8:51 PM CDT

Hi Friends,

Overall Doug has had a very good week. The main side affect from his more intense chemo has been fatigue. He's had almost no nausea at all. In celebration we went to Ponderosa tonite, probably Doug's favorite restaurant, with a couple friends to celebrate. He continues to eat pretty well.

This has been a crazy week in the aftermath of Hurricane Charley. As you know our home suffered very minimal damage. However, some of our friends and colleagues didn't fare so well. Please pray for those who sustained major damage to their homes and property and for the thousands still without power and clean water.

The boys have been off of school this week and won't go back until next Tuesday. Doug goes to the doctor tomorrow and will receive an outpatient dose of chemo. Thanks for your prayers and support. We are very encouraged with how Doug is doing at present. "Talk" to you soon.

Nick for the "fam"

Saturday, August 14, 2004 9:05 PM CDT

THE DAY AFTER HURRICANE CHARLEY!

Doug (Nick took him) went into the hospital Thursday afternoon and finally began receiving the chemo via IV @ 10:30pm...so it ran all night. We were pleasantly surprised and very encouraged that he did not get sick at all. He would have been discharge Friday night, but a little something else prevented that.....THE HURRICANE!

The hospital is close to downtown and I-4. Our house is on the east side of Orlando close to University of Central Florida. The eye of the hurricane hit both of these places. It was the worse one Orlando has had in 40 years they say.

Rich helped me prepare at home. We spent the evening in our laundry room (No basements here, people). It came and went pretty fast. We lost power around 9:30pm. It hit the opposite side of the hospital that Doug was on. (6th floor) Our neighborhood is a new one and I think that our young trees were a blessing.

We have minor damage (screen panels, shingles, small tree etc) compared to many people. We are very thankful! The hospital was fine. But, much of Orlando is devastated.

Our power and home phones are restored already, but the cell phones are jammed up.

Nick and Doug showed up around 1pm this afternoon. We were glad to see them!

Doug is wiped out tonight and slightly woosy. Please pray for him:

*that his white cell count won't fall too low...or that he'd get an infection

*that he'd regain his appetite again (he was doing so well right before this chemo!)

*for our friends who are coping with damages from the hurricane (Nick will help one friend tomorrow who basically lost their whole apartment)

Thank you so much for your prayers and encouragement! It helps keep us going.

Sincerely,

Debbi

Wednesday, August 11, 2004 8:30 AM CDT

Hi Friends,

Hey, Doug's been having a really good week. His first two days of school went really well. He goes to a "first hour" class, Language Arts, at Discovery Middle School. The rest of his classes are actually done over the speaker phone with a teacher and another 7th grader in the hospital-homebound program.

He seems to be adjusting well and I think the new challenge and greater normalcy is really good for him.

He spent the better part of the last two afternoons at the hospital undergoing MRI's to his head and spine. I think this is when Doug is at his best in terms of "doing what it takes." I know it would be really hard for me to sit in that MRI tube for several hours- the claustrophobic feel, the noise, the cold (those rooms are always freezing), getting another IV for the contrast needed for the pictures. Its not easy. I think he did wonderfully! We should know the results when we see the doctor tomorrow.

In addition he is eating so much better. He actually gets hungry several times a day. What a blessing. Tomorrow afternoon he goes in for his weekly check-up and blood test and if everything is okay he will be admitted to the hospital and receive his first in-patient chemo treatment. If all goes well, best case, he will be able to come home on Friday evening. We'll be sure to keep you updated.

For those in the Orlando area, WESH-TV (the NBC affiliate) will be doing a feature on Doug when he received Harper, our new puppy, from the Make-A-Wish Foundation tonite (Wednesday) during the 5:30 newscast. For those who can't watch or live in another city we think it will be posted on the Web at some point. We'll let you know.

The Lord's blessings!

Nick for the "fam"

Sunday, August 8, 2004 9:07 PM CDT

Sunday, August 8th

Hi this is Nick. Well we've had quite a few days at the DeCola household. The incredibly wonderful folks at the Make-A-Wish Foundation surprised Doug, and his brothers, with a puppy!! For those who are unaware, the Make-A-Wish foundation's mission is to provide a "wish" to children who have a life-threatening illness.

Deb and I had always resisted getting a dog because of allergy issues and because of our lifestyle in serving with Campus Crusade for Christ. When we were interviewed by Make-A-Wish Deb and I were surprised to hear that Doug wanted a dog. I quickly dismissed the idea (probably because I was partial to his second wish- meeting Brett Favre and attending a Packer game at Lambeau). I was even more surprised when Deb responded, "Nick I think we've got to do this."

Dave and Nancy Moffett, the awesome volunteers who initially met with us and spearheaded Doug's wish must have spent hours locating a hypo-allergenic dog. They found what is called a goldendoodle, a retriever and poodle mix, from a breeder in Texas, had the dog flown to Orlando and surprised Doug at our home complete with cake, several volunteers and a local news station.

We've had Harper for three days now and fell in love with him instantly. He's taken to Doug and our whole family. Harper has a great demeanor, has bundles of energy and is a joy to train. Check out the pics!

I think Doug really needed such a neat lift, especially since he is staring a difficult week in the face. He starts school tomorrow and will attend just one class at the middle school- at least at first. He will receive instruction in his other courses at home through the hospital homebound program.

He also has two MRI's scheduled- Monday and Tuesday. Then, on Thursday, he will be admitted into the hospital for the first of a series of 9 six-week chemo cycles. Hopefully his hospital stay will only be two days (one overnite).

We will let you know in more detail later in the week what we are expecting with the treatments. Obviously there are several things we would invite you to pray for:

-Pray Doug gets off to a good start in school. Though his energy level has slowly gotten better this will be quite a challenge for him strength-wise.

-Pray the MRI's go well and they are normal. For those who've had an MRI you know it isn't all that pleasant being in that tube. They broke up Doug's into two sessions since they have to scan such a large area (his head and his spine).

-Pray that the chemo treatment goes well. That there are no complications and perhaps most of all, that there are a minimum of side-effects.

-Pray for Doug's attitude. That he would take things one day at a time and be able to trust the Lord thru each challenge.

Thanks to one and all for your interest, prayers and encouragement. It means so much that you are walking this journey with us.

Nick for the DeCola's

Saturday, August 7, 2004 7:11 AM CDT

Hi friends this is Doug, I had a great time on vacation. My cousin, [Max] was really nice. whatever they wanted to do Max invited me to come with them.I can say Max and Jake are two of my best friends right now. I told Max I would wright about him when I got back.My little cousin Emma who is 4 didnt know what surgury was and I explained it to her and she said ''But only for fake right'' So I thought that was funny.

from Doug DeCola

Wednesday, August 4, 2004 3:31 PM CDT

Please check the journal history for updates on vacation, new house, and Switchfoot concert!

Doug is not all that thrilled to be back from vacation. He really enjoyed the break. He just dreds all the doctor appointments. He's only got one finger prick tomorrow for blood counts, but he spent the whole day today testing at the neuro-psycology office. He slept and ate well on vacation, and now those things have become more difficult again.

He did meet his shooting hoops goal! Ryan does a great job of egging him on. At times Doug's shot looked as good as ever (between the fatigue).

PRAYER REQUESTS

*Pray for Doug's mental and emotional outlook on things. Pray that he will celebrate the small victories and be encouraged and take things one day at a time. If he looks any farther he (we) gets overwhelmed.

*Continue to pray that he won't get a virus or bacteria. Robby has the sniffles again now.

*Please pray for Doug's friend Corey who had a serious skateboarding accident, emergency brain surgery, and is in the ICU right now. Corey is on Doug's lacrosse team and a skateboarding buddy of Dustin.


PRAISES

*that Doug remained "healthy" during vacation!!!!

*and that he did so well on the plane and boat (both could have caused further nausea

*that he's gained some weight


Thank you so much for writing, praying, thinking about, and encouraging us!

Debbi

Monday, August 2, 2004 4:49 PM CDT

From Debbi

So many exciting things have happened it will be hard to "capture" them all.

VACATION

Doug did so well on vacation!! He had no problems on the plane. He went out on the boat on the lake and watched his cousins ski and tube. He went bowling again. He went to a Milwaukee Brewers vs Chicago Cubs game with all of Nick's family (23 of us). The Brewers won! Yeah! He swam in the pool a little and hung out with his cousins around the hot tub. And, he had his same favorite food every single day...Italian beef from Chicago (Grandma D got it for him). He ate a sandwich for breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day of the vacation! And, he gained a few pounds!

His cousin Max, his age, was so awesome and hung out with Doug all the time. How much DID you guys spend in the arcade? Anthony and Emma (the youngest cousins, age 4) kept Doug laughing a lot. And, his Aunt Nancy didn't even hug him too hard!!!

NEW HOUSE

We've now slept in our new house 3 nights and we all love it! Robby especially loves watching the wildlife on the pond across the street out back from his bedroom window. Rich loves his "graffiti" decorated room at the far corner of the house. Dustin loves having his own room. And,Doug likes the vast patio that he can lounge on. It is such a provision from God!

SWITCHFOOT CONCERT

I cannot describe how incredibly encouraging this experience was for the whole family. We will never forget it. We had a private meeting with the band before the concert. They were all so gracious, humble, and fun. You can see in the picture that we were laughing a lot. They told us some funny stories, and we got to know about them and their families a little bit. John prayed for Doug again and we hugged them good-bye like old friends. They were so good to us as their guests. Doug's favorite part of all was when John dedicated two of Doug's favorite songs to him during the concert!!! I will never forget Doug's smile and excitement. Now, when we listen to their music we feel like they're more friends of ours on this journey with us, and we are encouraged over and over again!

THANKS AGAIN.......John, Tim, Chad, Jerome, Drew.... and thank your families too!

Thanks for your continued prayers. Next week Doug begins chemo in the hospital.

Debbi

Saturday, July 24, 2004 8:42 AM CDT

Hi this is Doug writing to you and I am in my new house. My house is awsome and my room is even cooler. I am feeling good and my eating is a lot better. I am going on vacation today and wont be back for a week. I cant wait for my trip on vacation. I am feeling better than I ever have right now. Its because im going on vacation today. Thankyou for writing and plaese keep writing. My friend says he likes it when I write on my site. My friend who I am talking about well his name is Ryan. He is my best friend with me going through this.


From Doug DeCola

Thursday, July 22, 2004 8:18 PM CDT

Hi Friends,

I'm sitting here in our "new" home as we prepare to move our stuff in tomorrow (Friday). What an amazing blessing this is for us! An amazing story of the Lord's wonderful provision.

I will be brief because I want Doug to relate the awesome details of last nite's Switchfoot concert. Wow! Just wanted to let you know that it was a great time for our entire family. Thanks to Greg Chambers, Mia, and the band. They spent fifteen minutes of unhurried time with us shortly before they went on stage. But I'm giving too many details already. When Doug comes over to our new place tomorrow, I'll have him fill you in.

See ya.

Nick

Tuesday, July 20, 2004 9:32 PM CDT

Hello Friends,

Doug's had some really exciting stuff happen the last couple days. After hearing from the band Switchfoot on Saturday night, Greg and Nancy Chambers scheduled an informal golf outing and concert by Bruce Crichton on Doug's behalf this past Sunday. Our whole family had a great time and Doug was greatly encouraged. The boys all got some great Switchfoot memorabilia which Greg arranged for the band to send. And, perhaps best of all, Doug received a huge autographed poster from all the players and the coach of the National Champion Syracuse Orangemen lacrosse team! Thanks to all who participated and especially to Greg who continues to overwhelm us with his initiative and help in making Doug's journey a more joyous one.

Then yesterday Doug had a wonderful time at friend Tyler's place. The whole family was great and they reported that he actually ate pretty well when he was there. Thanks guys!

On the other side of the coin, Doug was down a couple more pounds at his weekly checkup today. We are going to try a new medication which may help him regain some of his appetite. Our number one prayer request from a physical standpoint is that Doug would start to eat better and turn things around with his weight loss. He's lost almost 25% of his body weight since his surgery.

We'll let you know how the Switchfoot concert goes tomorrow nite. As always, we are so grateful for your prayers, support and encouragement. "Talk" to you soon.

Nick

Sunday, July 18, 2004 10:17 AM CDT

Hi every one this is Doug and I am okay today. I think I am going to a party tonight and it sounds fun. To all my friends please don't stop writing or praying. Thank you again for writing.

Something REALLY EXCITING happened last night. There is a band called Switchfoot (my favorite) and I don't know if any of you guys have heard about that band but THEY CALLED ME and asked if I wanted to go to their concert on Wednesday and I said yes and they asked me if I wanted to meet them backstage and I said yes. I talked to all 4 of them, John, Chad, Tim and Jerome. They told me that they are with me through my journey and what I'm going through and that they hope to encourage me and are praying for me. Then John prayed for me. So on Wednesday I am going to their concert. So that was cool!!!

Here's their website if you want to see who they are:
www.switchfoot.com

From Doug DeCola

Sunday, July 18, 2004 10:17 AM CDT

Hi every one this is Doug and I am okay today. I think I ame going to a party tonight and it sounds fun. To all my friends please dont stop writing or praying. Thank you again for writing. There is a band called switchfoot and I dont know if any of you guys have heard about that band but they called me asked if I wanted to go to there concert on Wednesday and I said yes and they me if I wanted to meet them backstage and I said yes. So on Wednesday I ame going to there concert. So that was cool.

From Doug DeCola

Friday, July 16, 2004 2:43 PM CDT

Doug spent the day at Ryan's on Wednesday. He was so happy for the change of scenery. Hanging out at home feeling badly gets old. He went bowling with Ryan that day and together they made some goals for Doug's 4 weeks "off". One of the goals was to get a higher bowling score. So, Ryan left for his vacation and I took Doug, Robby and a friend bowling yesterday. He got a higher score, but did not meet his goal yet. Maybe some of you can be his cheerleaders online! :)

Another one of his goals was to make 15 shots at our basketball hoop outside. He needs encouragement for this too. As you can imagine shooting hoops when you feel nauseas and tired is quite a challenge. He looks the part of a hoops player ,though, with his bald head and his NBA headband(that he wears to put pressure on his incision). Nick calls him Chauncey for Chauncey Billups.

Here's our schedule because one week from today we leave for vacation:

Wed, 7/21 Closing on the house (God is good)
Thurs, 7/22 painting and getting ready
Fri, 7/23 moving day!
Sat, 7/24 leave for vacation

PRAYER REQUESTS
*continue to pray that Doug will stop feeling nauseas and will be able to eat better!!!

*pray that he will stay healthy and not get any virus or bacteria

*pray for Doug to be encouraged

*pray for our sleep...that we will all be well rested



Will you please keep signing the guestbook even if it's short. He enjoys reading them and it let's him know that you are out there praying for him.

Thank you ,Friends. We need you and appreciate you!

Debbi

Tuesday, July 13, 2004 7:30 PM CDT

Doug began writing in this journal tonight, but got interrupted because he decided to go with Ryan and sleep over at his house! Ryan went with him to two big doctor appointments today. 1) his last chemo of this cycle 2)the neuro-psychologist evaluation (Dr. Dolske)

It was a long day, but very encouraging. Doug maintained his weight!! The oncologist said that he's doing very well and was not surprised by the struggles that he's had along the way. They are normal--no fun& awful- but typical.

He also agreed to an extra week off for Doug. So, he won't have any chemo for a whole 4 weeks! Doug was very happy about that. We still have to go back for a few various appointments, to have blood counts done, have his head checked etc., but NO chemo or radiation.

I think Doug wanted you to know that he ate another 6 inch Subway sub today.:) He's starting to get some of his appetite back. He sometimes can't eat cos he's so tired.

Dr. Dolske is going to work with us to help him get a good night's sleep. This is a relief, because he's usually up a lot at night. She helped us to understand that many of the struggles he's having are specific to brain injury and not just treatment side affects. These things can be treated and will continue to take time to heal.

PRAYER REQUESTS

*Please continue to pray for Doug's spirits...that he will be encouraged and will "fight"

*Pray that he will sleep well at night

*Pray that he will begin gaining weight

*Pray that he will not get any virus or bacteria over this break so that he can use this time to get stronger before his next treatment cycles begin

*Pray that God will provide for all of our needs these next few weeks as we move into our new house and go on vacation with Doug

PRAISE

*for a good day today and some positive feedback

As always thank you so much for caring about us and Doug and thank you for praying. We need you!

Debbi

Monday, July 12, 2004 6:37 PM CDT

Hello Friends,

Finally our computer is fully operational again. Sorry for the interruption in Doug's updates. Here's the latest from the last five days.

-Positives: We all had a great time celebrating Doug's last radiation treatment with a party on Saturday night- complete with cake, presents, friends and even a "Monster" wiffle ball game. It was great to see him running and playing and showing some signs of the "old" Doug. He capped it off with a sleepover. Its been wonderful for him to not have to go to the hospital for treatments everyday.

-The challenges: Overall, Doug still isn't feeling very good. Everyday he has to make a choice to "fight", especially when it comes to eating. I'd say progress to this point has been of the baby-step variety. To be honest, we had expected more of an improvement since his radiation treatments were completed last Wednesday but improvement has been slow.

Tomorrow Doug will get the last of his six chemo treatments of this current cycle. He then gets at least a three week break before he starts his next round of chemo- praise God! He is really looking forward to the break and especially to a family vacation in Wisconsin the last week in July.

Prayer requests:
-I think Doug has been battling some discouragement of late. He's just tired of feeling poorly and having to work so hard to eat. Its hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel at present.
-Pray for Doug's spirit, that he would continue to "fight the good fight" and perservere each day.
-Continue to pray that his appetite would return and that he would start to have more energy.
-As always pray that the treatments are taking affect and wiping out any cancer that might remain.
-Pray that he would EXPERIENCE the Lord's presence and help this week.

Thanks again to all of you who are joining us in our fight. As always, we appreciate you.

Nick for the DeCola's

Wednesday, July 7, 2004 3:07 PM CDT

Hi Friends,

This is Nick. Our computer is still waiting to be fixed but I'm at HQ today and able to update the site. Hey, check out the 2 new pics Ryan posted a couple days ago.

Today is a BIG day- Doug received his LAST RADIATION TREATMENT! You could have lit all of Orlando with his smile. Their were smiles and hugs all around from the awesome staff at the radiation oncology clinic.

As I've reflected on his last six weeks of treatments I was struck once again with the challenge he has faced. Almost every day he woke up feeling nauseous and exhausted. He'd take his medication, perhaps try to eat or drink a little something and then climb into the car for the trek to the hospital.

Most days he felt awful and in fact one time last week actually threw up in the parking lot as we were entering the cancer clinic. Without complaint he would lay on the treatment table, face down with his "mask" tightly fitted over his head and lay perfectly still for up to a half hour depending on the day.

Wow. To be sure Doug has had some bad days, both physically and emotionally. But, overall, he has endured his treatments with grace and courage. I am so proud of him!

Additionally we are grateful that he's felt better these past few days and is ever so slowly developing an appetite. And, his fifth chemo treatment went off without a hitch.

As always our whole family is indebted to so many who have prayed for us and supported us in countless ways. Please believe me when I say that your prayers are finding their target- Doug's progress and courage are a testimony to that.

Thanks again!!

Nick for the DeCola's

Monday, July 5, 2004 11:54 AM CDT

Hi, this is Ruthie, a friend of the Decola's. Lightning took out the Decola's computer so Debbi called and asked me to give you an update.

Major Praise: Yesterday was Doug's BEST day yet!! He went to church with the family and then the elders met with all of them for a special time of prayer for Doug. Afterward the Decolas went to lunch with my friend Tobi, who is battling cancer. Tobi was able to encourage Doug and all of us to keep trusting God no matter what.

After lunch Doug asked to go play mini golf and even felt good enough later to catch some local fireworks and play some family games. Debbi said they had an awesome day together....Thanks for your prayers!

Prayer Requests:

Tuesday is Doug's 5th chemo out of 6 treatments for this cycle.

Wednesday will be Doug's last radiation treatment!

Pray for increased appetite and weight gain.

Blessings,

Ruthie Delk

Friday, July 2, 2004 8:11 PM CDT

DOUG'S STATUS

The neurosurgeon said that Doug's fluid leak inside at the site of the incision is healing on its own!!!!!!!!

Doug got drinks for the whole family before,ate dinner with us tonight at the table, and cleaned up the dishes afterward. Then he went to do a couple of errands with Mom and Dad and got Killer Cake from Toojays as a treat. He said it sounded good!!

He also got some great gifts from the SUFFL gang this week!

He only has 2 more radiation treatments to go and 2 more chemo rounds, then has several weeks off! He had a great time with his friend Ryan on Wednesday hanging out. Ryan shaved his head completely to hang out with Doug. He even put on a patch with him.:)

PRAISES

*Praise God for answering our prayers for the healing of his fluid leak. Doug was so so relieved.

*Praise God that Doug was up doing some things a little today and tonight


PRAYER REQUESTS

* Keep praying for his appetite. Pray that the nausea will go away completely.

*Keep praying for complete healing

*Pray that we will be encouraged through both the ups and the downs

As always thank you so much for everything!

Love,

Debbi

Tuesday, June 29, 2004 6:54 PM CDT

8:05pm EST

DOUG'S STATUS

Some good news today at the oncologist appointment was that Doug had maintained his weight this week! That's very good considering how hard we are working to keep him eating :) His blood counts are really good, too. We are thankful. Though he hasn't slept well several nights this week, at least he had a restful nap today.

HOW ARE WE DOING?

In a book that I'm reading to Doug "Billy Graham has said that God has given us two hands-- one to receive with and the other to give with. When both hands are busy, we have balance and serenity. All of us are carrying burdens of one kind or another. Sometimes it seems we're so consumed with our own problems, so needy and helpless, we can't think of any way we can give anyone anything. When you reach that point, remember the one thing you can ALWAYS give. You can give thanks!"

That got Doug thinking about how thankful that he is for the little things in life...like being able to walk, and move around without an IV, being able to sleep in your own bed, being at home, having Mom and Dad with you. He talked about how as a kid you just don't know how good you've got it when you're able to go out and play with your friends. We talked about being thankful for the little things when you wake up feeling crummy in the morning. We talked about seizing the opportunity when you feel "better" and not waiting for when you feel "good".

PRAYER REQUESTS

*Please pray that we will continue to find things that make Doug laugh. He needs a good dose of laughter instead of zofran, vincristine, benadryl, colace, radiation etc.....:)

*Pray that he will sleep at night!!!

*Pray that he will have long periods when he does not feel nauseas and that he will be able to eat and not feel sick

*As always pray for his complete healing

Thank you!!!

Debbi

Sunday, June 27, 2004 8:42 PM CDT

9:53pm EST

Hey people,

Hey this is big brother Rich giving you a update on Doug. He is feeling a little better today, and went to the movies to see "Around the World in 80 Days." He said it was okay. He is mostly sitting on the couch watching tv or playing video games. His appetite is getting better. He ate a slice of cheese pizza yesterday, and today he actually REQUESTED oreo's. He went to church, but he had numerous fits of a stomach ache all through the day.

The family is doing alright. We are having to deal with constant care and upkeep of Doug. The boys all went to the movies today to give mom a little break. She is having to shoulder a lot with us moving and with Doug's situation. Dustin and Robby are doing well, hanging out at friends house's and doing the summer thing. Dad is getting into the swing of things in his new job in Crusade, and trying to keep Robby ready for next baseball season through practice.

There are several things we would ask you to pray for as a family
a. That Doug would feel better. (Stomach ache, tiredness, nausea)
b. That he would have a increased appetite
c. That the family would stay strong in Christ, through these hard times

Thank you for your continuing support in this situation,

For all the DeCola's
Rich

Friday, June 25, 2004 10:47 AM CDT

Hi, this is Doug, some of you asked qestions. My favorite dounut hole is powdered covered. I am doing okay today and I am not feeling nauseas today. Thank you for writing to every one. I want every one to know I am the same and I haven't changed much. Thanks again for all your support and love. I really appreciate it.

In Christ,

Doug

Thursday, June 24, 2004 9:15 PM CDT

10:26pm EST

DOUG'S STATUS

After another sleepless night and a rough morning the day turned around. The medicine worked and his stomach pain has lessened and he seemed to be able to eat with less nausea. He actually sat at the dinner table with us tonight, and he went for a short walk up and down the street tonight after it cooled off at bit. He has only 8 radiation treatments to go! Per the docs orders he's been wearing a sweat band around his head that puts pressure at the site of his incision. We think it seems to be helping and have noticed less swelling lately! He says that the objects in his double vision are "coming together"...meaning they're getting closer together than before. We think that means progress too.

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Well, it sure doesn't take much for mom and dad to be encouraged. A few smiles, a walk, sitting at the dinner table and discussing today's highs and lows (a past usual family activity) and we are very encouraged. Doug is really into Jeopardy and the guy who's won over $550,000 in the last few weeks! We are also encouraged by some new friends we've connected with...those who also have or have had a child battling cancer. We are also lifted up by the "angels" providing us with meals and doing laundry!

PRAYER REQUESTS

*Please keep praying for increased strength and for the eating challenge

*Please keep praying that Doug will be encouraged

*We will see the neuro surgeon again next week. Please pray that he will find that Doug's fluid leak inside his brain by his incision is healing on its own!


Thank you!

Debbi



cancer.

Wednesday, June 23, 2004 6:26 PM CDT

7:37pm EST

DOUG'S STATUS

Had a rough night with some stomach pain and still weak and tired. But, we've started a new eating strategy. We're giving him a little bit to eat every half hour. It's not a fun thing, but it seems to be working better than regular meals and snacks. There were a few times when he wasn't quite as nauseas today and that's progress!

HOW ARE WE DOING?

It just depends upon the day. There have been a few things happening the last few days that have given us relief and encouragement. I don't have a sinus infection. My headaches and sinus pain are from stress, but exercising more is relieving it. Rich's leg is getting stronger. Robby seems to be healthy again.

PRAYER REQUESTS

*Please pray that Doug will be encouraged by something specific in the next few days

*Pray that he will maintain and even gain weight

*Pray that he will feel like getting out of the house and doing something fun

*Please pray that we'll begin getting the details of his education worked out for this next school year (begins Aug. 9)

*Please pray that we will make progress in getting things ready for the move and in all the details for the closing on the new house (closing July 21)


As always thanks for your interest and your prayers and encouragement. We like to hear from you so keep writing in the journal or email us!

Love,

Debbi

Wednesday, June 23, 2004 6:25 PM CDT

7:36pm EST

Monday, June 21, 2004 7:43 PM CDT

Hello Friends,

We are off and running with another week of treatments. Doug will have 2/3rds of his radiation treatments completed after tomorrow's session. He also received his third of six chemo treatments (for this first cycle) today. Our oncologist is pleased with his progress and his blood counts.

However, he is still having a great deal of trouble eating and keeping food down. You can imagine feeling nauseous almost all of the time (I'm sure some moms can certainly relate). He continues to lose weight so we are working hard to help him eat when he gets a window where he has a taste for something.

Lately I've been realizing that I've been expending a lot of energy worrying about all kinds of things, particularly related to Doug's progress and future. I can be really intense when I get stressed and worried. Deb was helpful in pointing that out to me over the weekend. So my challenge today is to cast my cares on the Lord and "work the problem" (remember the movie Apollo 13?) whatever that is today. I'd appreciate your prayers in that regard.

Thanks too for your prayers for Doug and your continued encouragement and support. Its a great boost to us. We'll be in touch soon.

Nick for the DeCola's

Friday, June 18, 2004 10:37 AM CDT

11:48am EST

DOUG'S STATUS

Wednesday was a tad better. He actually went out to purchase some video games with a gift certificate and came home and played them. We also got to the dollar theater for a family movie night. He made it through the movie!
But, then Thursday he was pretty wiped out again. Today he seems a little better energy wise, yet his appetite remains a challenge every day.

HOW ARE WE DOING?

We are greatful for the little things...like when Rich makes Doug laugh, or Doug drinks some of his peach/strawberry smoothie. Yet, we are weary. The gravity of the long haul that we face is upon us. The day to day suffering brings grief, and we're trying to figure out how to do life this way. Sometimes hope and faith are strong and sometimes we're just holding on to them. It's like before we were in a swift river that not only had scarey jagged rocks to get by, but also had breathtaking scenery....and we had to hold on. But, now we're in stagnant waters and have time to process--feel, think, decide, ponder, remember, talk, wonder, and also realize how we've been battered and bruised along the way. Yet, God is present here in stagnant waters just as he was in the swift rivers. (well, you got a taste of the journal writer in me)

PRAYER REQUESTS

*for the fluid leak in Doug's head...his incision site is sometimes very swollen and sometimes less...the doc is hoping it will heal on its own....PLEASE PRAY THAT IT WILL TOTALLY HEAL ON ITS OWN!!!

*that Doug will get his appetite back, but that he will still eat in the meantime

*for my (Debbi's) health....feeling like I might have a possible sinus infection

*for Rich's leg to heal completely...he's starting to work out for football, but the leg is still sore

*for Robby's sinus infection to completely heal

*for Doug to get his energy back now that there's a bit less radiation so he can do some more "normal" kid stuff


Thank you for your prayers! We appreciate you!

Sincerely,

Debbi

Tuesday, June 15, 2004 9:06 PM CDT

10:17pm EST

DOUG'S STATUS

His second chemo treamtent went well and the docs are pleased. He is half way through his radiation treatments! Thursday they will change the "fields" of radiation to exclude his spine and concentrate only on the tumor area. Word is that this will gradually lessen the side effects that he's experiencing now. He's been wiped out and is still having a hard time eating. We're laying low in hopes that he'll get some energy back soon.

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Still tired off and on depending on the night's sleep. Sometimes we can get some work done. For me that means going through a drawer,closet,or cabinet preparing for the move. Nick is dealing with all the needs for closing on the house when he's not working. But, many times we just have to lay low and spend time with Doug and attend to his needs and the other boys' needs. I'm a Sprinter in life and not an endurance person. So, I need to remember to pace myself. Sometimes I think Nick is the energizer bunny and just keeps going and going, but even he is getting weary. I think that the nagging side effects are Doug's biggest challenge so far. He is weary. Yet, we know there will be good days and bad days on this journey, so we are hopeful for good days to come.

PRAYER REQUESTS

*continue to pray for the family's health...and that Doug won't catch anything (Robby has a sinus infection now)

*continue to pray for Doug's challenge with eating and that he'll get his energy back

*that the chemo and radiation are working and that he'll be completely healed

As always thank you,

Debbi

Sunday, June 13, 2004 6:50 PM CDT

Hello Friends,

Despite the fact Grandma D. came to visit this weekend, Doug didn't feel very well. He's been really tired and some of the side affects from the treatments have been hard.

He was still somewhat active though- playing catch with the lacrosse ball, a round of miniature golf yesterday and church today. His greatest challenge at present is eating.

Our biggest need and prayer request is that he would "fight through" his loss of appetite. Doug is scheduled to resume his radiation treatments and chemo tomorrow.

On a happy note, Rich arrived home safely from his mission trip to Mexico and had a great time. We are grateful. Thanks for your continued prayers, notes and support. We appreciate you.

Nick for the "fam"

Friday, June 11, 2004 6:40 AM CDT

7:51am EST

DOUG'S STATUS

We found some foods that he was able to eat yesterday...even his favorite one in the whole world (Mamaw's noodles)...that were soft enough. Though he was in pain yesterday he was still able to hang out at Austin's house for awhile and go to the high school baseball game with Dad and friends. He had some medicine that helped him sleep last night.

PRAISE

*OUR RENTAL COMPANY NOTIFIED US THAT THEY ARE EXTENDING OUR LEASE FOR A MONTH!!!! Thanks for praying. We are so very relieved! Closing date on the house is July 21.

PRAYER REQUESTS

*for all the details to work out concerning the closing on the house

Please continue with these requests
*Pray that we will find plenty of foods that Doug will be able to and will want to eat. Pray for him to fight through this challenge and to eat "by faith" if needed.

*Please keep praying for our hearts as things get tougher at times

*Please pray for Rich's safe return from Mexico on Saturday

Thank you again,

Debbi

Thursday, June 10, 2004 11:22 AM CDT

1:09pm EST

DOUG'S STATUS

Doug had a hard night last night. Seems that a lot of the possible side effects hit at the same time and he could not sleep very well. Eating has also become a challenge. He wanted me to let you know that he's lost all of his hair already. They said that the chemo on top of the radiation caused it to happen so fast. He's doing better today, though and plans to go over to a friend's house for a little while this afternoon.

Doug and I were praying and thanking God for all of our blessings yesterday. We began thanking Him for all of the people who have been and are so giving to us. We kept going and going. Then we realized that there are many people who have given to us that we don't even know about. So, THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO HAS GIVEN IN ANY WAY TO US...EVEN THOSE OF YOU WHO WE CANNOT THANK PERSONALLY!!!!

And, thank you to the Conway Area Bunco group for the treat that you sent in the mail this week! What a fun surprise!


PRAYER REQUESTS

*We still have not heard from our rental company. PLEASE PRAY THAT THEY WILL EXTEND OUR LEASE FOR 1 MONTH!!!!!

*Pray that we will find plenty of foods that Doug will be able to and will want to eat. Pray for him to fight through this challenge and to eat "by faith" if needed.

*Please keep praying for our hearts as things get tougher at times

*Please pray for Rich's safe return from Mexico on Saturday

Thank you!!!!!

Love,

Debbi

P.S. If you are a friend of Doug's feel free to give him a call. You're not bothering us. He likes to get phone calls!

Tuesday, June 8, 2004 11:06 AM CDT

Hello this is Doug writing. I had my first chemo yesterday. I am doing fine and I feel fine. The chemo is a shot through the port that kills the fast growing cells. I love all the letters and notes that you guys sent. I don't like the chemo because it's a shot but it's not bad. Thank you for writing and praying for me. It was cool that my csu friends wrote.

I discovered this morning that there was hair all over my pillow when I woke up. So, it looks like I'm starting to lose my hair. I'll look like my friends who got buzzed on Saturday.

Thanks to all of you,

Doug

Sunday, June 6, 2004 9:58 PM CDT

11:08 EST

DOUG'S STATUS

Doug had a great weekend. Doug really enjoyed having Deja and Baby Everson from NY here to help us for a few days. He didn't want them to leave. On Saturday he went to his youth group Water Day where they had the "Buzz for Doug" event. (See the pics on photo album and at buzzfordoug website) He was tired by the end, but did well. Today he went to church and then to an afternoon movie with a friend. He's not looking forward to starting chemo tomorrow or radiation the whole week, but he's sleeping well.

HOW ARE WE DOING?
We are still in a moment by moment, day by day mode and feel very tired at times. At the same time we are thrilled at the blessings we continue to receive day by day from the Lord. We are overwhelmed and in awe of the encouragement, provision, and help that we are receiving.

PRAISES (Thanks for praying)

*We signed a contract on a house this Saturday!!! (It's not far from where we live now, in the same school districts, and close to many friends)

*Rich is in Mexico on his missions trip!! His leg is doing well.

*The physical therapist was impressed by Doug's progress. His speech is also much better.



PRAYER REQUESTS

*Ongoing request is to keep praying that Doug's double vision will go away. (That's why he has the eye patch)

*Ongoing: that all the therapy will be working and he will be completely healed

*for tomorrow's first chemo (out patient) and then this week's radiation treatments

*PLEASE PRAY THAT OUR RENTAL COMPANY WILL EXTEND OUR LEASE FOR ONE MONTH!!!!!

*for all the details needed to close on a house!


Thanks again for all your support and encouragement,

Debbi

Friday, June 4, 2004 9:59 PM CDT

Greetings,

Well, we've made it thru our second week of radiation treatments. After returning home from the hospital after a six day stay (on Tuesday) Doug's had a relatively uneventful week (that's a good thing at this point). He continues to do really well with his treatments- he did have one day where he was nauseous- and had his first PT appt. yesterday. He also attended his first youth group meeting since the surgery last nite.

Tomorrow should be a big day. One of Doug's friends, Ryan, has masterminded a fundraiser (some of you may be familiar with it). As many of 14 boys in Doug's youth group are going to shave their heads in support of Doug and to help raise money for his care and medical expenses. The idea has actually taken on a life of its own as we've heard of others who are doing it in other parts of the country including his cousins in Sturgeon Bay, WI (thanks guys!). Ryan has been awesome. Just another example of how God has provided encouragement and support thru the love and care of others. Check out the website Ryan has set-up at www.buzzfordoug.com. Its really fun and creative.

We are looking forward to the weekend. Doug's first chemo treatment is scheduled for Monday. We'll keep you posted. Your prayers and encouragement are keeping us going thru this hectic time. Thanks again. We appreciate all of you in a big way!

Nick for the DeCola's

One quick update on our housing situation. We are very close to signing a contract on a home. Please pray that God would work out the final details. Thanks.

Tuesday, June 1, 2004 8:42 PM CDT

Greetings my friends,

This is Nick having newly arrived home from the hospital WITH DOUG tonite. We are grateful for your continued prayers on our behalf. As you can imagine Doug is thrilled to be home. When the nurse came into our room to tell us the doctor gave the go ahead to come home I think you could have lit all of Orlando with Doug's smile.

Doug had his chest tube removed today as planned and had his "usual" radiation treatment. However, his oncologist is holding off his first dose of chemo until next week. Because the chest tube was inserted very near his port he decided it would be best to wait and let things heal a little more. He assured us that, medically, it makes little difference whether Doug started chemo today or next week, as long as he gets six doses over the next six weeks. Doug was actually pretty happy about not having to get his chemo "shot" today.

I've spent a lot of time with Doug during his hospital stays this last month and I must say that its been a real privilege. Please take this the right way when I say that Doug is not a super hero. He is a wonderful but "ordinary" boy who is being given extraordinary grace and strength. He still gets anxious before new and potentially painful procedures but overall he has been very courageous and an incredible pleasure to be around. Hopefully its not corny to say that he truly has been an inspiration to me as he's gone thru the early stages of this process.

All that to say that your prayers on Doug's behalf are finding their target. Thanks so much. We'll continue to keep you posted.

Nick

Monday, May 31, 2004 9:25 PM CDT

10:35pm EST

DOUG'S STATUS

Tomorrow Doug is scheduled for radiation. This begins week #2 out of 6 weeks. Then, hopefully, if the x-ray is still o.k. he'll get the chest tube out of his lung. And, he is also supposed to get his first chemo which is what they call a "push" through his implanted IV port. IF all goes well we expect him to also come home.

HOW ARE WE DOING?

Doug is feeling much better and he and I enjoyed watching Syracuse win the NCAA Lacrosse championship today on ESPN. They let him out of the room for a little bit today which was nice for him. He really just goes with the flow and takes joy in the little things (like the lacrosse game,getting his hair washed after 5 days, and Taco Bell and a Krispe Creme doughnut) Of course he doesn't like the pain, so he's not looking forward to tomorrow's activities at the hospital.

Nick is feeling a bit under the weather. He came home and tried to rest today, but it's hard when so much is going on.
We are taking it one day at a time. He'll stay with Doug tomorrow while I meet the realtor about a house that we're interested in. Can you spell STRESS?

PRAYER REQUESTS

*for Doug as he faces the huge challenges of tomorrow

*for the whole process with finding a home for our family...all the details to work out

*continue to pray for the health of our whole family

Please keep signing the guestbook even if you've signed before because Doug really likes hearing from everyone.

Thanks again!

Love,

Debbi

Saturday, May 29, 2004 8:01 PM CDT

9:11pm EST

I had a great day with Doug in the hospital today. He is such a great kid and such a good sport. It was a relief because I could tell that he was feeling much better today than last night.

Also, I interviewed Doug for this journal entry. Here's what he says:

Q:What's the worst thing about being in the hospital?

Doug: "pain"
"hospital food"
"not being able to be at home"
"crying babies at night...sometimes I feel sorry for them, but they're constantly screaming at night"

Q: What's the best thing about being in the hospital?

Doug: "the nurses" (I told you he has favorites!)
"ESPN" (We don't have cable at home and had such a great time watching SU Lacrosse in the semi finals today!!!)
"getting anything you want to eat"(This is because he was not eating well and I told him he could have anything that sounded good as long as he ate, and today he chose Taco Bell!)

He also wanted me to tell everyone that "I miss you & I feel a lot better today than yesterday, and PLEASE PRAY FOR ME WHEN I GET THE TUBE OUT!"

He'll probably be there through the weekend, but we had to laugh because we're looking forward to seeing SU play Navy in the Lacosse NCAA finals on Monday! If we were at home we couldn't see it.

*Please just keep praying for the same requests as yesterday!

Thanks a lot!

Love,

Debbi

Friday, May 28, 2004 9:44 PM CDT

10:54pm EST

I just got home from the hospital and DOUG WILL HAVE TO STAY A MINIMUM OF 3 MORE DAYS.

At least he has one of his favorite nurses tonight and we found out that she went to Syracuse University!

I took his friend, Cameron,and brothers, Dustin and Robby to the hospital to have dinner and watch a movie with Doug tonight. Cameron was a surprise for him.

HOW IS HE DOING?
He's pretty uncomfortable with the chest tube. It hurts when he breathes. He's also really tired and has had a hard time getting good sleep. But, he still doesn't complain. Again, it's not in Doug's nature not to complain. It's another touch of God in his life I'm sure.

PRAYER REQUESTS
*Look in the journal history for the same ones

*Please continue to pray for Doug to be encouraged and lifted up in the midst of this valley

*Please pray for sleep and healing

*Please pray that he will not have side effects from the radiation and that the lung problem will not effect his recovery from the brain surgery

Thanks,

Debbi

Friday, May 28, 2004 1:34 PM CDT

2:44pm EST

DOUG'S STATUS
Looks like he won't be able to come home today. Seems it is not healed up yet.

I'm taking the other kids in to have dinner with Doug and hopefully watch a movie with him.

PRAYER REQUESTS
*that he would start eating better...he has not had a good appetite since they put the chest tube in

*continue to pray for healing of this complication

*encouragement for us all

*continue to pray for a house to buy that meets our needs

*other prayer requests are in the journal history

Thanks,

Debbi

Thursday, May 27, 2004 4:16 PM CDT

5:26pm EST

Nick's hanging out with Doug at the hospital. I'm trying to coordinate things at home and take a nap when I can.

His x-ray was normal today, but they want to keep him there another night at least to make sure that he stays stable. If it's still normal tomorrow morning they will take the chest tube out. Then they'll wait to see if he is still okay. If he is they'll take another x-ray and if it's normal then maybe he'll be able to come home tomorrow.

Doug has not had much sleep and is a bit restless. He actually had his radiation therapy this morning. That means he had to lay still on his front where the port is still sore and where the chest tube comes out and of course is painful. Nick said that the technicians were amazed that he was able to do it. God's grace in Doug again...is the only way to explain it.

PRAYER REQUESTS

* that Doug and Nick will sleep well tonight!!!

* that Doug will be healed completely from this complication

* HOUSING NEEDS: that we will find a house to buy that meets our needs (I am looking for a house with the realtor while Nick's in the hospital. At this point we are supposed to be out of our rental by the end of June.) Please pray that the timing of everything will work out so that we won't have to move twice!

*for the other boys Robby (8), Dustin (14) Rich (15).....We had started to move into a little less stressful time as a family, but have gone back to very intense stress with Doug's second and unexpected hospitalization

*especially for Rich (15) as he prepares for his missions trip to Mexico. Praise God that his fractured leg is still feeling better. Pray that it heals completely!

THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR EVERYTHING!!! We would not be able to survive without your prayers and encouragement!

Much love,

Debbi

P.S. I'm adding new pics for fun

Wednesday, May 26, 2004 7:13 PM CDT

8:23pm EST

Dustin and I just got back from the hospital. The procedure on Doug went well, but it is of course painful. It's painful when he breathes now. Yes, he had a pnemothorax. I found this info on it from the internet:


definition: A pneumothorax is collection of air or gas in the pleural space (the space surrounding the lungs)

The placement of a chest tube (chest tube insertion) between the ribs into the pleural space allows the evacuation of air from the pleural space.


They've already expanded his lung completely, but the tube is left in place right now in case it needs to be used again. I don't know how long this will require for him to stay in the hospital. I'm not even telling you anyone's guess. We'll see.

I cannot believe that he had this complication. I don't think that it's that common with the port placement.

HOW ARE WE DOING?
Believe it or not, I think that this was one of the tougher things so far. Doug is sad. This was a big curve ball. The doctors keep telling us what a brave kid we have. Not that he's not scared, but he keeps doing well during all these scarey procedures, and again he is such a good patient!

*Please pray for a quick recovery from this and a speedy exit from the hospital. That's what Doug wants.

*Please pray for our hearts.

Thanks,

Debbi

Wednesday, May 26, 2004 1:52 PM CDT

3:01pm EST

Doug is being admitted to the pediatrics floor, will have to have the procedure to remove the air bubble from his IV port, and will have to spend the night in the hospital.

*Please pray for us

Debbi

Wednesday, May 26, 2004 11:29 AM CDT

12:43 EST (My computer time doesn't align with this journal)
NEW PRAYER REQUEST!

Doug is in the ER right now. The air bubble around his port got bigger. They're giving him oxygen to try and decrease it, but they may need to stick a tube in there and pump out the air. The doctor said that it could be done by the bedside under sedation, but is not fun when he already is sore from the surgery yesterday.

*Please pray for this situation...that it will be resolved with no further complications

*Pray for Doug having to deal with yet another unexpected challenge

*Please pray for Nick. He's with him and he's tired.

*Please pray for all of us to rest in the Lord...we are tired. I am meeting with our realtor and looking for houses and trying to keep the homefront going.

We were told to expect ups and downs and bumps in this journey....., but that doesn't mean that it's easy.

Thank you for your prayers!

Sincerely,

Debbi

Tuesday, May 25, 2004 5:23 PM CDT

6:33pm EST

DOUG IS HOME AGAIN!!!

He looks really good and is going out now to check out the ice cream truck in our neighborhood right now.

Crazy thing: they couldn't give his radiation today because the computers crashed. But, they said that it causes no problem.

Also, the air bubble by his port is still there, but did not get any bigger, so he'll have another x-ray tomorrow.

He's sore, but okay.

We're going to become experts at "intellectual flexibility"!

I actually made dinner tonight...the first time in 3 weeks! The family was glad to have one of their favorites from Mom.

Also, Rich's leg is finally starting to feel better. He'll make up all his final exams that he's missed tomorrow. He still needs to catch up on the sleep that he's missed.

**Please pray that we all get a good night's sleep!!!

**Continue to pray that the small problem around the port will be corrected

Tuesday, May 25, 2004 12:17 AM CDT

Hi It's Deb:

Doug felt fine this morning. The surgery went well and he's feeling well except for the expected soreness from the port placement. But, there is a slight air pocket in the port, and they are having him wait and re-x-ray it at 4pm today. If the bubble does not go away he'll have to stay overnight. If it does go away we're hoping that he'll be home this evening.

He also has to get his 2nd radiation today at 2:30pm which will be a bit uncomfortable since he just got the port.

****Please pray that everything will go well and that he'll be able to come home this evening.

He was thankful for how fast this surgery went! He and Dad are watching ESPN as they wait.

Thanks for your prayers!

Monday, May 24, 2004 7:54 PM CDT

Hi Friends,

Doug's treatment today went off without a hitch. About 30-40 minutes total. That should be the longest treatment of them all since they were making sure their measurements were correct.

However, the rest of the day has been a bit rough. He's thrown up a few times since he's gotten home. Doug surmises that the celebratory Slurpee he had after his first treatment has made him sick (blue raspberry- yuck!). The doctor thinks his nausea is unrelated to his treatment.

The minor surgery to insert his port for his chemo treatments at 8am tomorrow is still a go at this point. The surgeon thinks it may help since they can hydrate him during the surgery.

After the surgery Doug will get another radiation treatment and if everything goes well we should be home early tomorrow afternoon.

Of course you can pray that Doug feels better and all goes well tomorrow. He is apprehensive about the procedure and going back to the hospital for surgery again. We'll let you know how things go.

Thanks so much for keeping up with our journey.

Nick

Monday, May 24, 2004 6:19 AM CDT

Hey Friends,

Just a quick note to say that Doug has his first radiation treatment today at 2pm. The first one should be a bit longer then usual since they will make sure all of their measurements from last week are correct. We'll let you know how it goes.

He continues to do really well and make progress. This weekend included a trip to the baseball field for his younger brother Rob's game, going swimmming for the first time (he waded into the water a few times), going to church yesterday and tossing the football around a bit.

We will try and keep fresh pics coming for your enjoyment. It seems we can only post three pictures at a time. Know that our whole family continues to benefit from your prayers, your notes and other wonderful kindnesses. God bless.

Nick for the "fam"

Friday, May 21, 2004 9:55 AM CDT

Hey Friends,

We've continued to enjoy a good week. Doug went to school yesterday for about an hour to see his friends and teachers. He had a great time. He also attended Robby's baseball practice and hung out with friends at the park.

He is walking much more like himself already. Today his cousin Emily, who is a speech therapist, is working with him. What a blessing that is!

Doug remains in great spirits and continues to be buoyed by the wonderful notes on the website, visits from his friends and coaches and the kind gifts and cards of so many. We all feel so carried along by the grace of God and the care and support of so many.

One final note: In my note on Wednesday I asked you to pray about our housing situation for next year. I will only say now that it seems that God is in the process of doing something absolutely amazing and incredible in our midst. I would urge you to continue to pray for our situation. When the time comes I will share more details but please keep praying.

Thanks again to all. We'll continue to keep you posted.

Nick for the DeCola's

Wednesday, May 19, 2004 6:21 PM CDT

Hello Friends,

Just a brief note of thanks and a quick update. Our whole family passes on our deep thanks for those who have visited our site and especially those who have written words of encouragement. It means so much to us and every single note has been deeply appreciated. Doug's spirits have soared as he has read your notes from literally all over the world.

We would love to respond to each one and we may be able to in time but please know for now that we have been encouraged by every entry. Thanks!

This has been a quiet few days (at least in terms of Doug's recovery. Its actually never really quiet here in our home). Doug continues to get better each day. Playing catch with his lacrosse stick, going to the store and visiting with his friends.

Tomorrow Doug will make a short visit to his middle school. They've been a great encouragement and help to him since his surgery.

If I were to send along one prayer request, it would be more family related. We are trying to nail down a new living situation for next year. We thought we had a lease nailed down but that may not be the case. We may have another option of which we are exploring. Please pray for the Lord's provision and for wisdom as we consider how to proceed with housing for the next year.

Thanks again to all. We'll continue to keep you posted.

Nick for the DeCola's

Monday, May 17, 2004 2:28 PM CDT

From Debbi

Hey! Things went well with Doug's staple removal today. His head looks great! For those of you who cannot see him, he just has 2 vertical bandaid width and length shaved areas in the back of his head that had staples (31 in all). You would not notice anything from the front.

His radiation simulation (set up) went well too. And, his surgery to place the IV port has been rescheduled for next Tuesday, May 25. Plus, he doesn't have to start the radiation treatments until Monday, May 24.

It will be nice to have this break. The only thing we'll be looking to have is physical and occupational therapy this week.

He's planning on going back to his school one day to say good-bye to his teachers and classmates. This is their last week of school.

You can pray for Rich. He's home from school again because his fractured leg hurts. I think he's been on it too much! He's hoping that it will be healed enough to go on his scheduled mission's trip to Mexico the first week in June! He's been such a great big brother to Doug since he got home...teasing him and making him laugh like usual.

Thank you for signing the guestbook! Doug loves reading all the encouraging notes!

Sunday, May 16, 2004 1:12 PM CDT

This is Nick.

We've had a wonderful weekend having Doug home. He is recovering nicely. We've gone for several short walks and today he was standing up in the driveway playing catch with me with his lacrosse stick. He is moving better everyday. He is also in really good spirits.

Friday Doug saw the opthamologist. He thought Doug's double vision might work itself out spontaneously over the next several months. Right now his eyes are a bit crossed as a result of the surgery or the pressure resulting from the tumor. If Doug's eyes don't straighten themselves out it seems that his double vision can be corrected surgically.

Tomorrow Doug is scheduled to get his staples out (he has 31 from the two incisions on the back of his head) and will have a "simulation" to get set up for his radiation. On Tuesday he is scheduled for minor surgery to have his port-a-cath inserted under his skin. It will be located just underneath his collarbone in his upper chest. It is used to access his vein for his chemotherapy treatments and the various blood tests he will need. Hopefully he will be ready to start radiation treatments toward the end of this week.

We continue to be so grateful for the support of so many others. I can tell that Doug is tremendously encouraged as well. It has been a really good weekend. Thanks for your continued prayers and support. We'll be in touch as things happen this week.

With gratefulness,

Nick

Friday, May 14, 2004 8:57 AM CDT

hello
I am Doug DeCola

Thank you for everything!

Thursday, May 13, 2004 5:17 PM CDT

Thank you for all your prayers! Please continue to pray! We continue to desperately need your prayers!

*for continued progression in his recovery from surgery

*for the cancer treatment to work and for few side effects

*for strength for our whole family

*sleep and health for the family

*management of everything this entails

*wisdom for us and the doctors

*for the Lord to provide for us in every way, spiritually, emotionally, physically, and financially

*for our upcoming move to a new and bigger rental house mid-June...our lease ends here the end of June

*for Doug's removal of staples, radiation simulation on Monday and the out patient surgery to insert his IV port on Tuesday....then radiation treatments starting a few days after

PRAISE GOD WITH US!

*for sucessful surgery and good recovering so far

*that Doug is home!!!

*for wonderful nurses and doctors at the hospital

*for wonderful friends, family, and community who has been pitching in the help meet our needs...food, cleaning, supplies, encouragement etc.

*for God's provision of a bigger house so that Doug will have his own room to rest in (currently have 3 boys in one small room)

*for the Lord's leading of us up to this point and his incredible loving grace

Thursday, May 13, 2004 2:49 PM CDT

HOW ARE WE DOING?

We are experiencing God's incredible grace, love, strength, and power directly from Him and via friends, family, and the whole community.

Doug has been incredibly brave. His courage comes from faith in Christ and not from himself. Each step is an incredible challenge for him to cast his fear on Jesus, but we have seen him do this. He was such a great patient in the hospital! He is happy to be home and is working hard at getting better. He is loving to be with his brothers and friends. He is soooo encouraged by every card, call, and expression of support and prayer. He has expressed experiencing God's care and love through so many people.

On the other hand it is all surreal and incredibly overwhelming at many times. It is incredibly painful to see our child go through every step. At times you can see a look on his face and know that he's thinking about the next challenging step. We try to talk and pray it through.

My husband has been wonderful and has been there every step of the way for Doug, for me, and for the other boys. He was the one that spent every single overnight in the hospital. I took the shorter day shifts and tried to care for the other boys at home in between.

Doug's brothers are all different in their styles of coping. Dustin, his twin, is sometimes very empathetic, and it's hard for him to see his brother like this. It's hard for Robby ,too, to see his normally very athletic brother have to learn to walk and talk again. Rich, the older bro, has been really helpful and supportive of us all, and has great friends to lean on. But, he's having his own trials! On Monday he fractured his leg above his ankle in Spring football pracice!!! Needless to say he is not receiving the TLC that we would normally like to give in this situation.

Thursday, May 13, 2004 2:29 PM CDT

April 30
We took Doug to an opthamologist with symtoms of headaches and double vision. Something was putting pressure on the optic nerves causing them to look swollen.

May 1
Doug was checked into the hospital for an MRI of his brain and we found that he had a large tumor at the base of his brain, and he was urgently moved to ICU.

May 4
After 3 days of steroids to reduce the swelling at 7:30am he had surgery which took 3 1/2 hours. They removed %100 of the tumor and found it to be medulloblastoma, a highly malignant, rapidly growing form of cancer.

May 5-11
Doug recovered in the hospital. His surgeon said that he'd give him almost a 10 on a scale of 1 to 10 on his recovery. We met with the Pediatric Oncologist to hear about his planned treatment and found out that he will receive a 55 week course, radiation first with some chemo on top, and then a long course of chemo which requires short hospitalizations over that time. Yes, he will lose his hair. Radiation to the brain will begin that side effect.

May 12
Doug came home!!!! Only 8 days after brain surgery he is enjoying this time at home with his family before he starts in on more treatment. Monday he gets his staples out and does the simulation for radiation. Tuesday he has an IV port surgically inserted underneath his skin so that he can receive the chemo through that. It's an outpatient procedure.

Wednesday, May 12, 2004 9:58 AM CDT

This page has just been created. Please check back for additional updates.

Click here to go back to the main page.

----End of History----