History

Friday, August 22, 2008 7:28 AM CDT

Hello everyone. Fisher had his visit to the brain tumor clinic this week. First the really good news, all his tumors are stable! We are so thankful that they are still stable. We are concerned about Fisher because the doctors seem to think he has autism. I don't know if that is the way to put it. But, that is the best way I know how. They think he is high functioning. He has an appointment on Monday. I do have to say, that after talking with the social worker and the doctor at the clinic, I do understand more about Fisher and where he is coming from. When it was mentioned that he needed to see a doctor that will help him, he was so happy. He face lit up, and he told the SW that he thought it was a good idea. So, in additon to the NF, ADHD, OCD and brain tumors, he now has this to handle too. But it will be okay because, I firmly believe that God's Grace is sufficient and He will get us through this. I probably will be blogging more though. I will need a way to vent.

Thursday, July 31, 2008 9:07 PM CDT

Hi everyone! Just a real quick update. Fisher has an MRI tomorrow. Please keep him in your prayers. His 10th birthday is Sunday. I can't believe he is going to be 10. I will update again tomorrow to let yall know how everything went.
Please pray for a STABLE result!!
With love from Va,
Carolyn

Wednesday, June 18, 2008 1:07 AM CDT

I know it has been ages since I have updated my pages. A good part of it is because Fisher and I were sick for a long time. I just started feeling better, and my sickness started in March. Mine started with bronchitis, sinus infection and strep throat. The bronchitis kept getting worse and worse. Then Fisher came down with the same thing. Bless his heart, when he gets sick, he really gets sick. He missed a lot of school. When he went back, he worked hard and made most of it up. So, my little hero is going to be in the FOURTH GRADE!! I am so proud of him. He is really an amazing kid.
Its getting about the time for me to start freaking out about every little thing he does. I really try hard not to associate it with his tumors. When school was in, he told me that he started falling a lot. (kind of a warning sign) Here lately, he runs to the bathroom, thinking he is going to throw up. (another warning sign) He has an MRI on August 1st. Please pray it all goes well. Whenever we get close to MRI time, I start acting like a paranoid freak.
Can y'all believe that he is going to TEN YEARS OLD soon?
Time really does fly by fast. We are trying to think of something super special for him for his big day. Suggestions are welcome!!
Thanks for reading. We love you all.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Saturday, February 23, 2008 6:57 AM CST

Well, Fisher’s appointment at the brain tumor clinic appointment went pretty good. Thankfully, Fisher only had to see two doctors this time. First he saw Dr B, his neuro-oncologist. The doc examined Fisher, and thought Fisher looked good. At this point with Fisher being so far out of chemo (4 years off!!), he should be getting MRI’s once a year. The doctor and I agreed that with all the issues Fisher has going, it would be better to continue the every 6 months schedule. Then the endocrinologist came in. She explained to me about Fisher’s bone age study. Fisher’s bones “thinks” he is 7. She said that since he is growing at the pace of a 7 year old, that is good. I still don’t really get it. I don’t understand why it’s a good thing that my 9 year old is the size of a 7 year old. We will do another study when we have his next MRI.
Now for the “big thing” I would like y’all to help out with. I got this idea from a school project Fisher is doing. Fisher’s buddy Kati is helping with this. (Kati is my nephew’s sweet wife) This project is “Flat Stanley”. Flat Stanley is a flat little boy who travels all over the world with host families. What I would like to do is, have “NF Buddies” emailed to people who would volunteer to take them and make them a “part of their family”. The sky is the limit on what can be done. You can take them on family outings; you can take them to sporting events, or to tourist attractions. Be sure to take pictures!! Everything can be done via email. I will be setting up a special email address for the buddies. Depending on the response, I may even set up a myspace page so everyone can see where all the buddies are. I am coping this on Fisher’s caringbridge page. His post office box is on that page should the buddies want to send him a postcard or anything. I am excited about this because Fisher just loves getting postcards and hearing from people all over the world. I’m also going to print off all the pictures and make a scrapbook for him. If you would like to participate, you can message me if you are on myspace or you can email me at oshelrina@aol.com . I will email your NF Buddy. I think this will be fun, and it will be something that will really make Fisher happy. So, if you can, please participate!! 
Thanks for reading!! Check back for Buddy updates!!

Tuesday, February 19, 2008 1:44 PM CST

There’s a lot to update, so I will get right to it. Fisher had his routine MRI February 1ST. We finally got the results back, and thankfully, the brainstem tumors are stable. All the hammartomas are unchanged. As you can imagine, I was so excited when I heard the news. All that was crushed with one little word…. “but”. The nurse was like… but.. “something new has enhanced, most likely due to the neurofibromatosis.” My heart dropped. I just couldn’t believe my ears! Something new??? What does that mean??? Where is it?? How is it going to effect him?? What is going on?? Of course the nurse couldn’t answer my questions. She said she would have the dr call me. After what seemed like 100 years, but was actually a day or two, the Dr called me, and told me that from a neuro-oncology stand point, Fisher is still doing good. The tumors are stable, which is great news… etc. I thought, “Yes, ok, I know that. WHAT ABOUT THE NEW TUMOR???” He then told me that I would have to contact Fisher’s neurologist to get more info on the NF thing. He said that he simply didn’t know the answers to my questions, but Dr F. would. Of course, I had already called Dr F., and left a message with his assistant. Day one passed…. I could hardly even look at Fisher without breaking down and crying. Day two passed…. I seriously thought I’d have a heart attack and die before the Dr called me back. Finally he called me and told me that he went to the hospital to get a first hand look at the MRI. He said that the “new” tumor is so small, we don’t need to do anything about it right now. I said a prayer right then and there thanking God for keeping His Hand on Fisher. My heart was overflowing… I was on top of the world. That is until the mail came. In the mail I got the results his bone age study that was done SIX MONTHS AGO! It seems that Fisher’s bones think he is 7/8 and he is 9. So, the endocrinologist wants get blood work done to check his thyroid. He has always been on the small side, no matter how much he eats, he still can’t stay above 50lbs. We go to the brain tumor clinic tomorrow (Wednesday 2/20), so hopefully, we can get some answers.
I always, working on “the next big thing” for Fisher. I have some ideas floating around in my brain, and I hope to post about them soon. I think it will be something fun for everyone who chooses to participate. I hope a lot of you will. Like I said, I will post about it soon. I have to get some things in place first.
I think I’ll go ahead and end this for now. I have posted this on both my myspace page and on Fisher’s caringbridge page. (www.caringbridge.org/va/fisherc) Thanks for checking on us. We love you all.
With love from Va,
Carolyn

Thursday, September 27, 2007 2:58 AM CDT

Wow! Its been a long time! I couldn't sleep tonight, so, I thought I'd post an update about our favorite little charmer, Fisher :).

Fisher is doing pretty good. He is trying to get adjusted to being back in school. He is now in the third grade, and is 9 years old. He acts so grown up in many ways, but in others, he is still a baby. I do have to say that he is quite the charmer, and he works hard to make sure the people he cares about knows that he cares about them. He is convinced that one day he will help lead Jesus in the charge to defeat the Devil. In fact, he talks about that on a daily basis. He starts talking from the time his eyes open till the time he falls asleep at night.
I don't know if I have posted here about his latest MRI, but, it showed the tumors are still stable! He is doing so great I felt comfortable changing his last appointment with the brain tumor clinic. Well that and the fact that he had his visit with Dr Frank the previous week and he gave him a good report.
That's about it. Im so sorry I haven't posted here in awhile. Please forgive me.

With Love from Va,
Carolyn

Thursday, July 5, 2007 7:21 AM CDT

Hello everyone! I hope you all had a wonderful 4th of July! We sure did. We had a cookout at my sister's house. It was so good to spend time with my family. When we got home I was able to spend time relaxing in our pool (a gift to Fisher from his uncle). All in all it was a wonderful day.

I really needed the break and the relaxation. I have had so many health issues come up. My NF is really flaring up. I am in constant pain from it. The medication the drs gave me for it work, but I can only take them at night because the knock me out. Please continue to pray for me. I can block out a big part of the pain, but sometimes it is so hard.

Now for my little hero Fisher. He scared the bajeebees out of me last week. He woke up ate something and a few mins later started throwing up. After that he felt better and went on to play like nothing happened. Had he had a headache on top of that, I would have been on the phone with his doctors in .999 seconds. I kept a big watch on him all day and he was fine. He complains of his arms and legs hurting him. It hurts him to the point of tears, so that is a concern for us.

Now for something a bit happier. He is so excited because he will be going into the 3rd grade next year AND he will be 9 next month. He *thinks he is a teenager already. He loves to hang out with his brother Josh. They play games together. He has his uncle totally wrapped around his finger. Ummm I guess I should say he has all his Aunts and Uncles wrapped. They all spoil him rotten. I am so lucky to have such a wonderful family.

I am so sorry for not updating here more often. I have just had so many things going on. My health really hasn't been that great the past 3 or 4 months. Hopefully, things will start getting better for me. Please forgive me for not keeping you guys up to date on Fisher. You guys have been a major source of support for me. I know that even if I don't post you all are still praying for us. Those prayers get me through. There are times when I really don't think I can make it through all of this. Then I "feel" your prayers and support and I am able to go on. Thank you for that.

Fisher still loves getting your postcards, cards and packages. It is so nice to go the post office and see that you guys are sending him little messages of support. Please keep them coming. They mean so much to him.

Well, I guess I will close this out for now. Thank you all for everything you have done for me and my family. Words just can not express how much I appreciate you all.

Thanks for checking on us. Have a wonderful week. I love you all!

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Sunday, May 20, 2007 9:37 PM CDT

Boy, my week has been full of ups and downs. I had a real bad health scare. I can't go into details here, but thankfully, I am ok. Thanks to Terrie, Dawn and Mandee for helping me through it. I don't know what I would have done without you guys.

Also, my Mom is sick again. She has another infection in her spine. She is in a nursing home getting IV antibotics.
Please keep her in your prayers.

My oldest giant, Josh is leaving us in a week. I am so sad he is leaving. I knew it would happen sooner or later. He has met a wonderful young lady, and he is leaving to go and be with her. Don't get me wrong, I like her and I know she is going to be good for him. I amd just one of those moms who have to have my kids close by. That is the part I don't like about being a mom and an aunt. The kids grow up and move away. I miss my nephew and his wife. I miss my niece. I'm just in a sad mood this weekend. I am so proud on them all and I am happy they are making something of themselves. But that doesn't change the fact that I miss them.

Fisher is doing good. He has been a wild man. He has been collecting Star Wars toys, the one with the coins in them. He is a Star Wars nut LOL.

Well, that is about it for now. Thanks for reading!!

Saturday, March 10, 2007 11:56 AM CST

Hello everyone. I know its been awhile since I updated. Im really sorry about that. Fisher is doing good. He is still getting headaches, but not so bad that he has missed school. There for awhile, we were going through a huge battle at night trying to get hime to start his homework. Thankfully we have found the answer. I allow him some time to chill after schoool, then at 6, we do it. He is allowed to choose what he does first, second, etc. I know that sounds simple, but, it works.
The patch he is on, has been amazing. It really helps him get control of himself. The downside is it really suppresses his appetite. So, we have to practically force feed him. We are trying everything short of cramming the food down his throat. (not really, but Im sure you guys know what I mean)
As far as everyone else, the giants have been good. Well, they are your typical teenagers, but nothng really major thank goodness. I was sick for 2 weeks straight. I was in bed every day for 2 weeks. Thankfully, I feel much better now.
While I was sick, we got such a wonderful surprise! Fisher got a package in the mail, and in it was a beautiful, beautiful quilt. It was from Quilts of Love. Im gonna take pictures of him with it soon and post them. It is perhaps the most beautiful quilt I have ever seen.
That's about if from us. I keep all my cb friends in my prayers. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.

Thanks for checking on us. We love you all.

With love and prayers from Va,
Carolyn

Friday, January 19, 2007 5:55 AM CST

Hello everyone! Thanks for all your patience in waiting for me to post the MRI results. The prelim results are that the tumors are stable!! Thank goodness! We are so thankful that for so long after his last chemo, the tumors remain stable. I, of course, stay on pins and needles. I worry about him all the time. For now though, I can breathe a sigh of relief.

Thank you all for your prayers and support. I truly don't know what I would do without them.

With Love from Va,
Carolyn

Friday, January 12, 2007 1:57 PM CST

Hello everyone. Boy it has been a wild past few months for us. Thankfully, my Mom is finally better and she is home. Thank you all for your prayers for her.

Today was Fisher's MRI. He did fine for it. We won't have the results back until around Tuesday. I will update then. Thanks for all the well wishes.

Have a wonderful weekend.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Sunday, December 31, 2006 5:30 PM CST

Hello everyone. Things have been so busy around here. My mom is still in a nursing home getting IV Antibotics. Between going there to see her and trying to run and maintain a household I am at my wits end.

I just wanted to let you guys know that Fisher has an MRI on January 12. Please pray that everything works out. I am so worried. As I normally get right before an MRI.

Also, I want to wish you all a very HAPPY NEW YEAR. I love you all!

With love and prayers from Va,
Carolyn

Thursday, November 23, 2006 5:20 PM CST

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!! Boy, it has been so long since I have updated. So much has been going on. Fisher is doing fine. He seems to have fallen in step with his behavior at school. This new patch his dr has him on is wonderful. The transformation is amazing. He is still having trouble completing his school work. So, that is the next thing we are going to work on. We are so proud of him though because he is still fighting hard to beat these tumors. He is so amazing. I have to say one of the things I am most thankful for today is, that Fisher is still with us, and still a ray of sunshine to us. I don’t know what I would do without him.

We had something extraordinary happen to us last week. I have mentioned my friend Stacy from Dallas many times before. We both have been working hard to make Fisher’s dream of meeting the Dallas Cowboys come true. Well, Stacy and her husband Daniel went to a meet at greet at a Dallas grocery store. The meet and greet was for Jason Whitten!!! (Tight end for the Dallas CBs) Well, Jason took time out to talk to Fisher on the phone!! Fisher was on the moon!! He was so happy. I was so thankful Jason took time out of his busy schedule to talk to my boy. Words will never be able to describe how grateful I am for Stacy and Daniel’s friendship. They are such wonderful friends. Hopefully, together, we will be able to make this dream come true for Fisher. Right now Fisher and I are watching the Cowboys play and he is rooting for Jason and the CBs.

However, things haven’t all been sunshine and roses. My mom has been in and out of the hospital since the middle of October. Right now, she is in a nursing home getting high doses of IV antibiotics. She had to get a hickman before she left the hospital. Last Sunday, a nurse was flushing the hickman, and she used too much force and split it. So, yesterday, in the middle of a nor’easter I took her to get another one. The weather was so bad. Once I was finally able to get her back to her room, it took me over 2 hours to get home. (Normally, it would have only taken me about 15/20 mins) It seemed like every street, everywhere was flooded. It was so windy and ugh, it was so bad. My mom is doing a bit better now thank goodness.

So, that is it for now. I truly hope you all are having a wonderful Thanksgiving. I am so thankful for all of you who still check on Fisher. I know I don’t update like I should. I hope you all can forgive me.

Thank you for checking on us. We love you all.

With love and a thankful heart from Va,
Carolyn

Thursday, October 26, 2006 9:08 PM CDT

Okay I think finally, we have solved the guestbook problem. A big thanks to Caringbridge for stepping up to the plate!! I am so happy now.

As for Fisher, he is doing good. He has been having some killer headaches though. We have an appointment with his neurologist on Tuesday. Hopefully, we can get some answers then.

Thanks for checking on us, have a wonderful week.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

PS there are new pictures in the photo album!!

Wednesday, October 25, 2006 8:52 PM CDT

Hopefully the guestbook was down long enough to bounce back the stupid entries. If any of you come here and see a "bad" entry, please email me. Thanks :)

Monday, October 23, 2006 5:30 PM CDT

Guys, Im sorry, but Im gonna take down the guestbook again. I am so upset that the porno spam can make it to the guestbook. I am even more upset that there isn't anything we can do about it. So for now, Im gonna take the GB down. Im seriously considering setting up a myspace page for Fisher and making it private. Im if I do that, I will give all of you access to it. Im weighing my options right now. Im just not happy that this is allowed.

As for Fisher, he is doing good, I guess. He is really having a rough time at school. We are setting up meetings with drs and his IEP team to see if we can figure out what can help him.

We went to the clinic Halloween party and he didn't want to stay too long. In fact, we only stayed a few mins and then he wanted to leave. I don't know what is up with him lately. Please keep him in your prayers. I mean I know you guys already do, but please send some extra his way.

Thanks you guys. I love you all. Thanks for checking in on us. Im sorry about taking down the guestbook for a bit.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Tuesday, October 17, 2006 12:14 AM CDT

Ok all you Fishie fans, the guestbook is back up :). Hopefully it was down long enough to bounce back the porno spam. I can't believe they would target the webpages of sick kids. I guess it takes all kinds.

Fisher is hanging there at school. He seems to be having a hard time this year dealing with the other kids. He has gotten into more trouble so far this year, than he did the entire year last year. I really don't know what to do to help him. I have a call in to his dr. Hopefully, we will get some answers.

Thanks for checking on us. We love you all.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Thursday, October 12, 2006 11:44 PM CDT

Hey yall, sorry I haven't updated AGAIN. I will fill yall in on the details later. Fisher is fine :)

I am going to disable his guestbook for a few days just to stop the stupid porno spam. I will turn it back on by next Weds.

With Love from Va,
Carolyn

Wednesday, October 4, 2006 8:52 PM CDT

Wow! I didn't realize it had been so long since I updated. Im really sorry. Fisher is doing pretty good. We have had a few rough spots behavior wise, but since we have changed his medicine to the new ADHD patch, everything is quite a bit better.

Fisher was out for quite a while with a major case of bronchitis. Hopefully this will be it for this year. Other than that, we have been great.

I hope everyone is good. Thanks for checking on us. We love you all.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Wednesday, September 13, 2006 6:54 PM CDT

When Fisher first started chemotherapy, as yall know, he made a “list” of things he wanted to get “done”. Things like, meet Keith Urban, ride a fire truck, see a jet upclose…meet the Cowboys things like that. Well one of the things on his list was to meet the Power Rangers. (One of the Time Force Rangers did come to our house a few years ago but he wasn’t in his Ranger suit) On the last day of our Disney trip, we went to MGM. Fisher knew that the Rangers were supposed to be there. So, we got a map and headed to the far back of MGM to see the Rangers. We rounded the corner, and they came into view. Fisher was so excited!! We got within 5 feet of them and they had to leave. I was sooo mad! We figured we would go ride the Star Wars ride, and then be back in time to see them. The Star Wars ride was fun, Fisher loved it, but was anxious to get back to see the Rangers. Once again, we *just* missed them. I was about in tears. Each time we were sooo close to seeing them, and we would miss them. I went up to one of the cast members and told them about Fisher’s condition and how it was his dream to meet the Power Rangers. She told me that if I went to Guest Services, they may be able to make it happen. (Side note here Guest Services is at the FRONT of the park. We were at the BACK of the park. Not only that it felt like it was 150 degrees out) I went and took Robbie aside and told him I was going to go for it. I had 30 mins to get to the front of the park and back. He said “You’ll never make it”. Ummm never say never to me. Off I went. I should say off I RAN. When I got to the front of the park I actually thought I was gonna pass out. I spoke to a young lady there and told her the whole story and she was able to arrange it! We picked the time of 12:50 pm. That gave us time to grab some lunch and time for me to catch my breath. Oh yeah, I had to RUN back to where Robbie and Fisher were so I could see him do the casual meet and greets with them. I actually made it back! Well, we weren’t about to leave that area, so like I said we had lunch. We finished it up and my cell phone rings. It was Joanie Marie!! She was able to make it there to visit with us. Finally it was time for our personal meet and greet. The Rangers were so nice to Fisher. We took tons and tons of pictures. I just stood there and cried. I told them that this was one of the things he wanted to do on his “list” and they made it happen. It was worth the run just to see my Bug so happy. After the meet and greet with them, we went to the Indiana Jones show. We had to see that because that is Robbie’s favorite thing to do at MGM. After the show, Fisher was able to meet with Indy and the self proclaimed “Bad Guy”. We had a late supper and headed back to the lodge. The next morning (Saturday) we headed home. Once we arrived home, we were greeted at the door. With big hugs from our Giants; they were so happy to see us. We had a wonderful trip, but, it was good to be home!

Once we got home, it was time to get Fisher and Wayne ready to go back to school! Fisher loves school. He is in the second grade this year. His teacher has been teaching almost as long as I have been alive. She seems so nice. Well, nice but firm. Just what Fisher needs. Since we got home, Fisher has lost three teeth. He looks and sound so cute.

Another big thing that has happened in our family is my nephew; Cory and my niece Tiffany both have left for boot camp. Cory went to Army boot camp. Tiffany went to Marines boot camp. I am so proud of them. I miss them so much. Please keep them in your prayers.
Well, that is it for now. Thanks for checking on us. We love you all.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Monday, September 11, 2006 1:00 PM CDT

Hello everyone. Sorry I haven't updated. I have been busy with getting the boys set on going back to school. I will try and post a big update and tell all of yall about Disney on Wednesday.
Have a great day!!
Carolyn

Wednesday, August 23, 2006 6:14 AM CDT

Good morming from Animal Kingdom!! I just watched the sunrise over the savannah, and I thought I would update you guys on our trip so far. Yesterday, we went to the Animal Kingdom park. We got there bright and early to have breakfast with Mickey, Donald, Goofy and Pluto. The food was out of this world. They even had Fisher's favorites "bouncy bacon" and plain hash browns. We were half way through our meal when the characters came out. Fisher was so excited!! His whole face lit up and he was grinning from ear to ear. It made me cry to see him so happy. Of course, I took lots of pictures. But, I can't even describe how happy he was.
After breakfast, we went to DinoLand. Fisher looked at all the dinosaurs, I took his picture with Aladar, and then we went on the dino adventure ride. The ride attendant told us that it was a ride that only went 7 miles an hour with MINOR bumps and turns. All I can say is "HAH!!!" Don't get me wrong, it was fun, but, it was so scary, I almost......lets just say it was scary and leave it at that :) We then let Fisher and Jodi ride the flying dino ride. I was glad to let them do that just to give my nerves a chance to settle. Jodi wanted to go on the new roller coaster, Mount Killamasomething, she was happy because she was a lone rider, and she basically just walked right on the ride.
By this time we were all so hot, we decided to catch the bus and chill in the room for a bit. Then Fisher got to go the gameroom. They had three Star Wars games. You all will be happy to know that the galaxy is safe and secure now.
I have much more to tell, but the rest of the gang is starting to stir. I will write more later :)
Take care, thanks for checking on us.

With love from Animal Kingdom,
Carolyn

Monday, August 21, 2006 9:36 PM CDT

Hello everyone!! We made it safely to Animal Kingdom. I will have a big update for yall tomorrow. Im wiped out! But having a blast!!

Sunday, August 20, 2006 4:42 PM CDT

Trip to Disney Day 1

All, I have to say is, if you ever want to truly test how strong your relationship is, take a 12 +hour trip down I-95. If you ever ever want to test your need for a mood altering drug, take a 12+ hour trip down I-95 with Fisher. I am so glad we did an upgrade for the rental car and got a van with a dvd player. Had it not been for the DVD player, I don't think I would have made it this far. Here is how our trip has been so far. Fisher woke me up @ 1:15 am this morning. Yes, you saw that right; we were up before most people went to bed. We went and picked up Jodi (our niece) and off we went. Now in order to get to I-95, we have to go on a trip to Emporia, Va. I hate hate hate HATE traveling to Emporia. You have to really watch your speed, and I just know I heard banjo's playing. Finally after 1,000 hours (1 hour to the normal person) We made it to Emporia. We had to stop at the second worst McDonalds on the planet. Fisher just HAD to have some nuggets. Once we were on 95, we put in Hoodwinked. It wasn't long before Robbie and Jodi were off in lala land. Fisher was watching the movie and I was enjoying the peace and somewhat quiet. What I really like about this stretch of road is there is a Cracker Barrel at almost every exit. We had it planned, 6 am would roll around, and bam! we would be right at an exit to go get some breakfast. Wouldn't you know that at 6am, we hit the longest part with NO Cracker Barrell. By this time, my head was swimming and I was in need of a break. It was around 6 30 am we were almost in SC and pulling in to a CB. Breakfast was great, I was ready to go on with my day. The day wore on and on and ON. I almost got rearended going 70 mph by some idiot in a blue Expedition and he was from VA BEACH!!!! The truck drivers were playing dangerous games of cat and mouse, and Fisher was getting more and more irritable. I truly thought I was going to lose my mind before we stopped for the night. Well, to make a long story short, we are here in Flordia about 2 hours outside of Orlando. Fisher and Jodi are in the pool and Robbie is watching a movie. I should take a long hot bubble bath and call it a night. But, I am going to go and check on the kids and enjoy a few mins alone with my Honey.
Tomorrow, we will arrive in Disney and I will update again.

Thanks for checking on us. Please continue to pray for Geordan. He has made some miraculous strides, but he still has a way to go. I know Joanie would appreciate you praying for them.

Have a great night. We love you all.

With love from Floridia :),
Carolyn

Sunday, August 13, 2006 8:35 PM CDT

Hello everyone. Im sorry it has taken so long for me to update. I have been sick with a cold/allergies/flu.... something. It is killing me.

Monday August 7, was Fisher's Brain Tumor clinic appt. The news was that Fisher's tumors are stable. (Thank you Lord!!)
He is still on the very small side. But, I don't think there is much we can do for that.

I am going to make this update short. I am too sick to think straight :(. I will try to update more later this week.

Thanks for checking on us. We love you all.

With Love from Va,
Carolyn

Tuesday, August 1, 2006 8:28 AM CDT

Hello everyone. Yesterday was Fisher's 8 year old check up. It was so nice to see his primary peditrician. She is so sweet. The major concern she has, is the same one everyone has (aside from the tumors). The little stink isn't growing. He fell on the percentile chart again. He is below the 5th percentile for his height, and right at the 15th for his weight. I am about to worry myself to death about this. She doesn't feel that it is a genetic thing because at 5'4", I am the shortest person in my family. You all know about my "giants" (aka Josh and Wayne). Its like the boys go from one extreme to another. Very very tall to very very short. And oh my goodness, Fisher was a wild child there. He found out that he was going to get 2 shots (to get caught up from when he was on chemo). I thought I was going to literally have a nervous breakdown when we left out of there.

Well, I have a killer headache. So, Im gonna cut this short today. I will try to update more later.
Thanks for checking on us, we love you all.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Monday, July 24, 2006 4:38 PM CDT

Well, we are home. It has been a long, long day. We arrived at the hospital bright and early at 6:45am. I was so happy that Robbie was able to go with us this time. I really needed him there for the moral support. (I just knew it was going to be another one of those “Fisher is wired out” kind of days.) But, basically Fisher fell asleep before the procedure even started, and he has been asleep ever since. We won’t have the results for a couple days. Robbie and I both are so concerned because Fisher hasn’t been acting like himself the past few weeks. You know, the headaches, the nausea, he even has some slurred speech. I was even disappointed when they weighed him this morning, and he weighed only 47 lbs. I don’t know what we have to do to get some weight on this kid.

Well, Fisher just woke up (its 5:34 pm) he is sitting here with me and we are watching “A Goofy Movie”. I will post more later. Thanks for checking us.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Please remember to keep Geordan in you prayers.

Tuesday, July 18, 2006 6:29 AM CDT

July 11

Hello again all.

Geordan was moved to a rehab facility.
He was doing pretty well & was very into it.
He was standing with slight assistance for 30 seconds at a time & could stand & get in the wheelchair with only a touch of help.
He was relearning probably a sound a day. Practicing his la-lal-la's and ooooh's & eee's as he would drift off to sleep.

On Sunday he was sent back to the hospital with belly pain...nothing major we thought. Gas etc.
He was feeling much better last night & except for some gas, was cleared out.
And he was speaking some phrases..."come here Dad", "I love you too", and "technical difficulties"(a family joke).

But late last night he spiked a fever and this morning he would not wake up, he was actually stiff in the limbs.
They did a CAT scan & found that the fluid was built up on the brain again.
Presumably the belly issues were preventing the body from absorbing the fluid as it should.
So they went in to his previous belly incision were they positioned his shunt & used that end of the shunt as a drain. The fluid looks clear & the shunt itself seems fine.
That was at 10:30 this morning and he is just slowly starting to stir but has not waken up yet.
While they assure us that he will be fine, we are a wreck.

Please continue to keep him in your prayers as I know so many of you have been.

July 12

While Geordan seems a bit weaker (he has not had his "food bag" up since midnight Mon night/Tue morn), he is awake & has started talking a bit.
He is back to small phrases a bit & trying more.
He also pulled himself into a sitting postion on his own late this afternoon.
It appears we are back on track.
The neurosurgeons, knowing I have a list of questions, said they will talk with me tomorrow.
I just need a game plan on getting Geordan back to the rehab center.

While it was very scary we seem to be thru this one...hopefully we will have no more frightening setbacks.
I feel I can handle the little ones! LOL

July 16
It is now Sunday morning.
The last fluid samples they took showed bacteria.
So they will be taking Geordan back to the OR around 8:30 this morning & removing his whole shunt.
They will place another drain like right after they did the tumor removal.
So in some ways we will be starting over.
I just hope things clear up so they can put a new shunt back in & then deal with the G-tube soon.
He is quite anxious to get out of the hospital again & get back to rehab.
Danny & I agree....it is far less scarey there!

Today we had a wonderful visit with my nephew & his wife & daughter.
They will be in FL for about 2 weeks before they move in with my brother in Mississippi.
It was our first meeting with his young family as they have been in China, where she is from.
My former sister-in-law and her husband were along as well as their 11 yr old daughter.
We had not seen them in years.
It was wonderful!
Geordan was thrilled to see his cousin & meet the wife!

I will try to update as soon as I can.

July 16
The shunt removal went very well & initial samples are coming back clean!

At this point they hope to put in a stomach feeding tube on Tuesday & then go in on Thursday to put a new shunt in.
Praying all goes well so these can happen.

It looks like they plan to keep him in PICU for all this.
While he is there I can get to the computer easier.
He is watched more closely by the nurses too.
Also I plan to try to get back to work tomorrow....hopefully.
I will need to be at the hospital for the days that he has procedures.
Hoping that works out too.

Carolyn here now. Wow, as you can see there have been some scary moments for Geordan and his family. Please continue to pray for them. They are such wonderful friends, and we love them so much.

Fisher is doing pretty good. He has his moments where he gets me concerned then he is off like a banshee. Sometimes he has headaches when he wakes up. Other times he has nausea when he wakes up. He just doesn’t have them together at the same time. I am trying not to freak. (I know I sound like a broken record)

He still hasn’t tried pizza. But we have been able to give him other things with milk in it. I have made “pasta mobasta” with cheese in the sauce. He loved it. I have been able to put butter in his rice. He favorite snack is now hot buttered popcorn. He is still on this hamburger kick. He loves burgers with extra ketchup. He will even eat the buns!

He is counting down the days till he will be 8. I can't believe he is going to be 8. The busy part of his summer is starting now. He has occupational therapy starting on the 21st of July, then he has an MRI on the 24th, a visit with his pediatrician on the 31st , Brain tumor clinic on August 7th and then DISNEY!! I will post the results of each visit as we have them.

I am trying something new for him. I thought it would be cool for him to collect T-shirts from across the globe. He wears a size 8. If any of you want to help him collect them, you can send them to the PO Box at the top. I will post pictures of him in the T-shirts as they come in.

Goodness this post is long! I will go for now. Thank you for checking on us! Have a wonderful week!
With love from Va,
Carolyn

Saturday, July 1, 2006 8:40 AM CDT

Hello everyone. Since Fisher is sharing his page right now with his buddy Geordan, I will update Geordan first. The last time I spoke with Joanie, Geordan had to have a shunt. He came through that surgery fine. Then he developed some sort of an infection. They were trying to sort all that out while I was talking to his mom. He is going to need speech therapy and physical therapy. His gag reflex is very sensitive. It makes it scary for mom and dad to even consider leaving him alone. I can really relate to that because Fisher has a high gag reflex, and it IS very scary. He is going to need radiation. While he is on radiation, he will be taking an oral chemo. Then after 6 weeks, he will have to have IV chemo once a month for three months. Ugh, he is going to be on vincristine. That mess is nasty! Nasty with all capital letters. Please continue to pray for Geordan, Joanie and Danny. They are going through a lot right now, and I know they appreciate your prayers. If any of Fisher's Fans would like to send Geordan a card, please email me for the address. He is a young teenager who is probably very scared right now, and I know he would love to know that there are people out there praying for him.

Fisher is doing great. He is still terrified to try anything with dairy in it. We keep offering it to him and he turns it down. Hopefully, he will try it just to shut us up. He is enjoying his Summer break and he is really looking forward to going to Disney. Thankfully for this update, he has no issues that are worrying me. Miracle I know. Right now, he is loving life and we are so thankful he is doing so well.

All through our childhood, we have our favorite aunt or our favorite uncle. You know, that one special relative that is cool and loves to do fun things. For me, it was my Uncle GC. I have such fond memories of going to the beach; going to the base swimming pool or just taking off and going somewhere. I remember his VW van. I thought it was the coolest thing in the world. The top would pop-up and there was a bed up there! Now being one of the “little ones”, I was never allowed to sleep up there. But, I thought that van was the greatest things in the world. I remember he had two beautiful shelties. He had a pet bush baby who would eat grapes out of he hand. He also had a parrot. He loved to go on day trips. It was on one of these day trips that I was introduced to the Virginia Diner and I had peanut soup. I admired his son Eddie, and his daughter Mary Ruth for being Air Force “brats” because they had traveled all over the world. I can't say that I was jealous, but I thought that they were so lucky to be able to see so many things. Over the years, we all had lost touch. I thought of them often. I even tried with no success to find my cousins online. Today, I will be able to see my cousins for the first time in years and years. It won't be because of a family reunion or any other happy event. We will be getting together to honor the memory of my Uncle GC. He passed away from complications of diabetes. I wish I would have told him how much I loved him. I wish I would have thanked him for all the things he did with us. I wish I would have introduced him to his great-nephews. I wish I would have stepped beyond whatever it was that separated us. All I know is its too late. He is gone and all the shoulda, woulda, couldas will not bring him back. If there is a family member that you haven't spoken to in years, if there is a family member that needs to know that you love them, please give them a call and tell them. Don't be like me and go through all the “I wishes”. So, Uncle GC, rest in peace. I love you.

Thanks for checking on us. We love you all.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

PS Please sign the guestbook Fisher loves to read the enteries.

Monday, June 26, 2006 8:51 AM CDT

Hello everyone. I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. Before I update on Fisher, I will update on Geordan. He had a few pretty nasty setbacks over the weekend. But, when I talked to Joanie yesterday, he was doing somewhat better. Please continue to pray for him.

Fisher is doing pretty good. He is still very leery about eating anything with milk in it. That danged hospital pizza ruined him from wanting pizza from anywhere else. We keep offering him food with some dairy in it, and he is still afraid to try it. That’s okay; at least we know that if he eats it, he will not have a serious reaction. He has however; found a few new foods that he really likes. Hamburgers and hotdogs! He told me the other day that he is sick of chicken nuggets. I thought, “Ya think?” So, now we get him all the hamburgers he wants. We still have to sneak his veggies in his pasta sauce. We are hoping that he will try some salads or fresh fruit soon.

Now the “big” thing for us to get past is his next MRI. These things always make me a nervous wreck. Things seem to pop out at me more right before one. I know I’m a nutcase. But…ok, there is no “but” I’m just a nutcase. Please pray for good results.

Well, I guess that is about it for today. I appreciate you stopping by. Please sign Fisher’s guestbook. He likes to check to see who has signed it. I hope you all have a wonderful week. Take care, we love you all.

With love from Va,

Carolyn

PS. Fisher wanted me to add a very special “Congratulations” to his buddy and favorite singer Keith Urban! Keith married Nicole Kidman on Sunday. We wish them a long and happy marriage!!

Thursday, June 22, 2006 5:56 PM CDT

Whew! What a day! We arrived at the hospital this morning before 830. Fisher was so excited to start the challenge. We had a weigh in, height check, and bp check. Then we went to our room to start the challenge. At this point it you all should know Robbie (Fisher’s dad) came with us. I was so happy that he was able to come and join in on all the “fun”. The first step of the challenge was for Fisher to have some milk rubbed on his lips and then he had to have increasingly larger amounts of milk. The last two amounts were 2 ounces then 4 ounces. Fisher fought us almost every step of the way. Lets just say, he does NOT like the taste of milk at all. At one point, the dr was about ready to call it quits. I told her that I really did not want to do that. Because we have to know one way or the other if he is still allergic. Also, Fisher needs to know that he needs to finish what he starts. Well, my brave boy finished the challenge! While we were at the hospital, he had his very first piece of pizza!! The only thing is, it was hospital pizza. Now say it was “hospital pizza” is like saying it tasted awful. It was gross. He ate it and sort of liked it. Robbie and I had some of it and almost gagged. Finally, after two more hours, we left. We have to wait 24 hours then, the total challenge is complete. THEN Fishie will have some REAL pizza.

Well that is about it for today. I am wiped out. Oh, and Robbie got to witness what it is really like to go to the hospital with Fisher for a visit. (insert huge evil grin here) Thanks for checking on us. We love you all.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

PS We were able to see Shelia and Mr Brian while we were there today!! Fisher was beside himself!!

PS #2 A New Fisherism: Upon seeing a road sign that read “Suffolk 19 miles” Fisher said, “Ohh now I get it, Norfolk/Suffok = North/South.”

Wednesday, June 21, 2006 7:58 AM CDT

**********
A quick update about Fisher from the hospital: HE PASSED THE DAIRY CHALLENGE!!! I will post a detailed update later when I get home!

Good morning everyone. I know a lot of you are wondering how Geordan is doing. He had surgery to remove the tumor on Monday. He thankfully, he came through the surgery without any complications. We are still waiting to see what kind of tumor it is and what the course of treatment will be. Please continue to pray for them all. This family is so special to me. I truly believe that it was Divine intervention that even brought us together. Joanie and I became friends when I posted on Keith Urban¡¦s fan board trying to get Fisher a meet and greet with KU. We started emailing back and forth. She came up here from Flordia to be a part of the whole experience. As soon as we met face to face it was like two long-time friends getting together, not two strangers meeting for the first time. Over the course of the past few years, we have gone places like Disney and she came here for two Keith Urban concerts. She has been a source of strength for me when I have dealt with scares with Fisher¡¦s brain tumors. Now, her son has a brain tumor and I am able to offer her the same support. Saturday night, when we all talked to Geordan and Joanie, Fisher wanted to speak to his buddy. What amazed me was how intelligently Fisher was speaking to Geo concerning the tumors. He said this, ¡§Geordan don¡¦t be scared, everything is going to be ok. They can operate on yours and get yours out. They can¡¦t do that with mine. It is in place that is too hard to get to. If they try and go in to get it, they might cut through something I need. Like my ability to breathe.¡¨ He spoke so intelligently about it. He constantly amazes me. So, please continue to pray for this wonderful family. Thanks.

Another prayer request: A dear friend of mine just lost her dad. She has the difficult task of dealing with the arrangements and with family members. This is the first time she has to do either. Please pray for her too. Thanks.

Fisher has his dairy challenge tomorrow. He is so excited to finally know one way or another. I am so excited because he will be able to eat a huge variety of food. If he passes his first dairy related food will be pizza. The flip side of that is, if he doesn¡¦t pass, he is going to be heartbroken. Let¡¦s keep our fingers crossed that he passes.

There haven¡¦t been any more incidents of the stumbling, but, another symptom has started. When Fisher wakes up, he is nauseous. He hasn¡¦t complained of a headache along with it. Thank goodness. But he did throw up Sunday morning. I had to call his nurse regarding his referrals yesterday, so I mentioned it to her. She conferred with Dr. B about it and he said since his MRI is next month, just keep an eye on him. I¡¦m not freaking out yet. Should he start complaining about a headache with the throwing up, then I will freak out completely. You guys know how I am. I have to protect my sweet Fishie. I am a hovering Mom anyway. But with him I am even more so.

We have started our summer study unit on the planets. Yesterday he named all the planets in order from the sun AND he said something about the characteristics of each one. I was like, ¡§Ok, what do you need me for?¡¨ He wants to go to the planetarium and to the Va Air and Space Museum. We are BIG on museums. So, I think one weekend soon we will go to that one. I am happy he wants to spend his summer learning something other than how fast he can beat the boss in Super Smash Brothers Meelee.

One of the things I like about the summer is the summer movie season. So far we have seen ¡§Over the Hedge¡¨ and ¡§Cars¡¨. Both are great. ¡§Cars¡¨ gets the two-fins up from Fishie. He loved it! I liked it too. It almost makes me want to start watching NASCAR.
ALMOST ƒº. I, for one, can not wait for football season to start. Maybe this will be the year we get Fishie in to meet the Cowboys. Meeting them is one of the things on his list to do. I am determined to make it happen. He told me the other day, that if given the choice to meet with KU again or meet the Cowboys, he¡¦d choose the Cowboys. Now THAT is saying something. A few other famous people lost out to KU. I do think this is the year though.

Well that is it for today. Wow, I didn¡¦t realize I had written so much! Thanks for checking on us. We love you all!! Have a wonderful day!

With love from Va,

Carolyn

Saturday, June 17, 2006 3:58 PM CDT

Hello everyone! I know I have some updating to do, but first of all I have an URGENT prayer request. I’m sure you all remember me speaking about my dear friend, Joanie Marie. She has been such a huge source of support for Fisher, my family and myself. The following is a post she made on Keith Urban’s fan site. I have her permission to tell you guys about it.

At the end of April Geordan ended up in the ER with apparent dehydration from vomitting due to what we thought was sinus drainage, etc. He also apparently "threw his back out" at the same time.
There he was given medicine for nausea (for which they really saw no cause) and released after blood tests & a tummy x-ray. They refered us to a pediatric Doctor.
He felt that Geordan might also have acid reflux & advised over the counter medicines for that as well as the drainage with a prescription anti-inflammatory for his back.
He wanted to refer us out.
Since the drainage & vomiting were apparently under control, the Dr sent Geordan to an orthopaedist for back x-rays. After the x-rays they then wanted an MRI, saying he has scoliosis...curvature of the spine.

We got the MRI scheduled for Thursday & his Dad took him in.
Shortly after they started, they stopped & called a radiologist in.
Danny was then informed that Geordan has a tumor in his brain, to the back right & against the brain stem.

We were then sent straight to the hospital where Geordan waits.
At this point all we know is that the surgeon feels that the tumor should come out Monday, they are not sure what kind it is & aside from a drain for a few days he should do well. From what we are being told we rather expect it will be benign ...however they have not said exactly that to us yet.
There have been no mentions of some of the key words that would raise a red flag in regard to the likelyhood of cancer so we are hopeful.
We hope to get a better consultation with the Dr at some point this weekend.

We are quite hopeful but please send your thoughts & prayers Geordan's way.

Please keep Geordan, Joanie and Danny in your prayers. Thanks!

Now For my Fishie update. Well, the school year is finally over!! I am so happy! He is now in the second grade. He worked so hard and we are so very proud of him. The end of the school year also was the end of high school for Joshua (Fisher’s oldest brother), Cory and Tiffany (Fisher’s cousins) Be sure to check out the photo album!!

We are counting down the days until we know about all of Fisher’s issues. Please keep him in your prayers. Ugh! I almost forgot, another symptom reared its ugly head this morning Fisher started tripping and stumbling. I’m hoping its nothing. I am trying not to panic (you guys know me, that is easier said than done).

All this summer, we will be studying the planets. Fisher is intrigued by outer space. He is so excited about it. That pretty much is it. Thanks for checking on us. Please keep Fisher and Geordan in your prayers! Have a great weekend. Happy Father’s day to all you dads out there!!

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Saturday, June 17, 2006 3:58 PM CDT

Tuesday, June 6, 2006 8:07 AM CDT

Hello everyone. I hope you all are having a great week. We have been getting some much needed rain.

Fisher is counting down the days when school is out. He can’t wait until his summer break starts. We are going to be studying the solar system (his idea) and I have lots of fun things planned for him. I will be glad he is home because here lately, school has been wearing him out. He comes home, and he needs a nap. Now he does that. HE lays down and takes a nap. Any of you out there that know my Fishie Bug, knows that is so NOT him. Usually, he is bouncing off the walls. I do have to say that his behavior has improved drastically. I don’t know if I posted it, but he was having a hard time behaving at school. He was getting into trouble nearly every day. We had considered taking his PS2 from him for a bit. But, he had a panic attack about it. We figured out that the PS2 is more than just a gaming system for him. It is like a security blanket. So, we decided instead of taking something away, we would go the more positive route and let him work toward getting something. That has really worked out for him. His behavior has really turned around. Thank goodness!!

I have had some emails asking about his tests he will be having this summer. I finally have the CORRECT date for the dairy challenge: June 22. His next MRI : July 24. Eight year old check up: July 31. Brain tumor clinic: August 7. Then at the end of August we are going to Disney. Please keep him in your prayers.

Also, please keep the happy mail coming. He loves to get mail in his PO Box. He also loves to see who all has signed his guestbook. When I ask for “Happy Mail”, Im not really asking for gifts or anything, a card or a postcard would be greatly appreciated. Thank you all for checking on him. We love you all.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Tuesday, May 30, 2006 2:21 PM CDT

Hello everyone! I hope you guys had a nice Memorial Day! Ours was pretty good. We had sort of a double holiday because Sunday was mine and Robbie's 19th anniversary! Yep you read that right, 19 years to the same man/woman. I don't know who deserves a medal, Robbie or me :). All I can say it while it has been rough, I wouldn't have wanted to go through it with anyone other than him. He is my soul mate.

Well, enough about us. Now to the reason you are here! Fishie! Well, we still don't know much regarding the growth issue. I guess time and tests will tell the full story on it. He is counting down the days until the last day of school. But not for the reason you would think. The last day official day of school is the day he has the dairy challenge. He is going to be heartbroken if he can't have pizza. Let's just hope for the best.

Well, now, I have some wonderful news. A very kind person has generously offered to send Fisher to Disney! We are so thrilled. We are going in August and we are counting down the days. To the kind person who is doing this for him, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts!

Well, that's it for today. Y'all have a great week. Thanks for checking on us. We love you all!

With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Monday, May 15, 2006 7:14 PM CDT

Hello everyone. Now that I have had a chance to let today sink in, I will fill y'all in on my day. Fisher had an appointment with his neurologist today. I thought it was going to be your run of the mill “Fisher is doing great, see you in 6 months” type of day. Well, we arrived at the doctors office the mandatory 30 mins early. That 30 mins turned into something like 60 – 90 mins. I thought I was going to lose my mind. Well, finally the nurse called Fisher back to get his stats. He weighed in at 45 pounds and I think something like 3 foot something or another. Well, one of the first things the dr says to me is that Fisher isn't growing. He has dropped below the percentiles for his weight and his height. He ordered a couple of blood tests. Fisher is scheduled for a routine MRI on July 24 and he will have a visit at the brain tumor clinic on August 7. The neurologist says this is perfect timing, when Fisher has his MRI, he wants them to look at his pituitary gland. Since that area is very close to the brain stem, it makes sense that we look there.
Growth hormones were also discussed. This really isn't a good option because, he has tumors that are stable. Growth hormones make things grow. So, this isn't something that we really want.
I'm not sure what all this means. You all know that Fisher's size (or lack thereof) has been something I have been worried about for years now. I am at a loss right now. I'm not really sure what all this means. I do know none of it sounds good for our FishieBug. I'm not saying the doctor said he has taken a turn for the worse as far as the brain stem tumors are concerned. But this new issue, just compounds the other issues.
Please keep my boy in your prayers. I know you all will but please say a few extra for him. As soon as I know more, I will keep you guys informed.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Thursday, May 11, 2006 6:44 AM CDT

Good morning everyone! Well, a few tears here this morning. His American Idol favorite was voted off last night. After a few tears, he did say that he just knows that Chris is going to be a superstar like Keith Urban. With that he was off to play his PS2.
We had Fisher's IEP meeting yesterday, and it went quite well. I get stressed about them, almost as much as I get stressed about his MRIs. This one was the first official one I had with his new resource teacher, and I must say, it was a very productive meeting. I wasn't sure how it was going to go because Fisher has had some days where his behavior hasn't been up to par. We had considered taking his PS2 away until the school behavior improves, but, Fisher almost had an emotional breakdown about it. So we thought that instead of taking something away from him, we would turn it positive and allow him to work toward a special prize. Once we implemented that plan, his behavior did a total turn around. This week he is working toward a Star Wars Transformer. This kid is so into Star Wars it isn't funny. But, whatever works, works. We are still covering the medical side of it too, he has an appointment with his neurologist on Monday. Speaking of appointments, I had the date of his dairy challenge wrong. Its not June 8. Its June 15. That also is the last day of school here. I have already told his teachers that if it doesn't get moved to an earlier date, he will not be in school that day. It is also the day before Fisher's big brother Josh graduates, so hopefully Fisher will be able to enjoy a huge slice of pizza with his brother!
I'm not sure how many of you know this, but, May is Neurofibromatosis Awareness month. Neurofibromatosis is a neurological, genetic disorder. For some it is just an inconvenience, but to others, like Fisher it is life threatening. I am going to try to post some information about this disorder over the next couple weeks.
That is it for today. I hope you all have a wonderful day! Please remember to sign Fisher's guestbook and to leave some hugs. He checks both at least a couple times a week, and he gets so excited when he sees the numbers jump high.
Take Care!! With Love from Va,
Carolyn

Saturday, April 29, 2006 5:10 PM CDT

Today was a very happy day for our family! Today, my nephew, Cory married his sweetheart Kati. They asked Fisher to be the ring bearer, he loved every second of it. I am totally exhausted, so I will post the details later, I did want to let yall know that I uploaded new pictures to the photo album!

Have a wonderful weekend!
Carolyn

Wednesday, April 26, 2006 9:17 PM CDT

Okay, well, I was wrong. The spammers don't have a set time when, they hit. I just removed another casino spam from Fisher's guestbook. Please, please, please, if you see the post for the online casino spam, please do NOT click the links. Who knows what will happen to your computer. The casino is in no way connected with Caringbridge. Fisher gets absolutely nothing from the casino. If you visit, and you see it there, please drop me an email at oshelrina@aol.com. I usually check my email several times a day.

The date for Fisher's dairy challenge is June 8. We are trying to lobby to get it sooner. Please pray they will change it to an earlier date.

Thanks for checking on us! We love you all.
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Monday, April 24, 2006 7:23 PM CDT

Well, the offending guestbook post showed up again this morning, I am thinking that the bot that posts that mess does it on Sundays so... I am going to start making Fisher's page password protected every Sunday and then removing the protection on Monday morning. Maybe if the computer gets a few bounce backs, it will cut it out. I really wish there was a way to block it completely. You know like some sites to with the added step of putting in a series of letters and or numbers. There has to be something that can be done.

We finally have a date for the dairy challenge. Its in June. I know that is a long time away, but, its not as long as it has been. So, we will just wait. Thankfully, we will know before his birthday!! So that is good. If he passes, he will have a pizza party, and for the first time ever..... a REAL Birthday cake!!

So, that is it for now. We are hanging tough here in Va. Taking one day at a time. Thanks for your love and prayers.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Wednesday, April 19, 2006 4:26 PM CDT

Well the offending guestbook post has been deleted. I can not believe someone would post spam for a stupid casnio, on a Caringbridge page. I guess it takes all kinds. I was going to go ahead and password protect his site, but ther are too many Fishie Fans out there. I wouldn't want to accidently leave one of them out. He loves to check his page and see all the hugs and the hits to his page.

I am trying to think of something that is really special to do for his birthday (August 3rd). I am open for suggestions :).

Anyway, thank for checking on him. He loves you all!

Have a wonderful evening.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Wednesday, April 19, 2006 6:24 AM CDT

Well, I almost put the password on his page this morning. But, I want all of you to see what some ruthless person put in the guestbook.

To the person who did this, your ISP is going to be investigated, and if possible we will pursue possible legal action. This is a young child's web page for his FRIENDS and FAMILY to follow his battle with brain tumors. NO ONE here is interested in your online gambling scheme. I think it is pretty low to use a page within the Caringbridge forum to promote your site. You are not welcome here and I DO NOT want you to visit my son's page again.

Now, with that out of the way, I STILL do not have a date for his milk challenge. This is really, really plucking on my nerves. I am going to call his nurse at the oncologist office to see if she can pull some strings. She is wonderful, so hopefully she will be able to get through to them.

Fisher is doing great. We is so excited about his cousin's wedding. He looks so cute in his suit. We are going to have pictures taken and I will post them as soon as I get them.

I am still sick. Ugh, the verdict is upper respitory infection. All I know is, I am miserable.

That is about it for now, y'all have a great day!

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Friday, April 14, 2006 5:58 AM CDT

Hello everyone. I have had to remove an entry in Fisher's guestbook. I think its terrible that someone would post spam in the guestbook of a child. If need be I will password protect this site. If by chance, you come here one day and it asks for a password, please email me, and I will send you the password.

Thursday, April 13, 2006 8:20 AM CDT

Hello everyone. We still don't have a date yet for the dairy challenge. It is really upsetting because we really need to get this done. All I get is "We will call you when we get an opening." Urghhh!!! It ticks me off. Fisher is doing great. He still has a way of making me laugh, right when I need it. My nephew is getting married at the end of this month and Fisher is the ring-bearer. We went out Saturday and bought him his first suit. He looks sooo handsome in it. I can't wait to post pictures.

Please continue to pray for me and my situation. I am at my wits end as to what to do. To make matters worse, I have a cold/allergies and that is wearing me down too. I don't mind saying, I am feeling mighty low these days. Please continue to pray.

Thanks for checking on us. I hope you all have a great day.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Friday, March 31, 2006 7:25 AM CST

I finally heard from the allergist! Well, the skin test was only 'slightly' positive. The blood test is negative!!
This is a good sign that he has outgrown the allergy to dairy. We are waiting for an appointment to open for his 'dairy challenge'. This has to be done at the office because they will be able to react right away if he has a reaction to it. We still haven't told him yet. We will tell him when we have a firm date for the challenge. Please continue to pray that he will be able to have his pizza.

I also have a special prayer request for me. I am going through some struggles, and I just need some prayer. Thankfully, its not a monetary struggle like some of the past ones have been. I just need some prayer. Thank you so much.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Tuesday, March 28, 2006 8:05 AM CST

Hello everyone! Still no word on the blood test for the milk allergies. I called yesterday, and they weren't in yet. As soon as I hear, I will let yall know.

Fisher is doing great. I, on the other hand have been fighting a monster headache pretty much since Friday. I stayed in the bed nearly all weekend, and anyone who knows me, knows that is bad.

Well, anyway, I wanted to let yall know there is still no word on the blood test.

Thanks for checking on us!
We love you all.

With Love from Va,
Carolyn

Wednesday, March 22, 2006 6:34 AM CST

Good morning everyone! Boy oh boy yesterday was some day! We arrived at the allergist a bit early to fill out paperwork. There were a couple of little babies there and of course Fisher was drawn to them. He played with them for a bit, finally we were called to the back. The little stinger still weighs less than 45 pounds, 43 to be exact. Like a huge, dark ominous storm cloud, the time for testing came. When the nurse came in with the tray of 'testers', my brave little Fishie, went to peices. She kept telling him that it didn't hurt. I told her that if it hurt, even a little, he needed to know because we have a strict 'no surprises' rule. She demonstrated on me. (of course it didn't hurt) He kept screaming "no needles, no needles". Finally, I just held his arm and told her to go ahead. Here's the way it went: "NO NEEDLES!! NO!! NO!! DON'T.........(test on his arm) oh? is that all it is?" He was so surprised that it didn't hurt at all. She did the full test on his back and he said there was one that felt like a mosquito bite, but that's all. After 15 mins, the only two spots that reacted was the dust mites and the grass one. So, we went for the next step, the blood draw. He lost it again. So, the nurse put the 'magic cream' on his arms and off we went to the lab.

We had to stop at the cafeteria and get some fries. The emla cream had to have time to work, so I thought that would be a perfect time for us to gather our thoughts, and our strength for the lab. Now, part of the process for Fisher of us going to the hospital, is for me to take this huge beach bag type of thing that has all of his test results, and a few comfort items in it. I had that, my pocket book, Mr Monkeyface, his jacket, my jacket and our snack. I finally made to our table and Fisher starts eating salt. I don't know what is up with that, but, the kid craves salt. So we sat there for a bit, and it was time. Well, Fisher grabs his fries and takes off, I thought he was just going to hall. When I got to the hall, he was no where to be found. I freaked out. I ran outside and he wasn't there. I went to the van he wasnt there. I shoved everything but my purse in the van, and went back in the hospital to find him. He was hiding in this lighthouse they have in the hallway. Of course not before security was called. Well replay this twice and that is what happened before we made it into the lab. Once we made it into the lab, he tried to bite the lab tech, finally, she was able to get blood, and we will have the results back in a week.

At the end of the day, I was singing "pour me something tall and strong make it a hurricane before I go insane!!" Our little man will probably get the okay to have his pizza next week.

Thanks for checking on us!
We love you all.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Monday, March 20, 2006 12:19 AM CST

Hello everyone! Well tomorrow is the day. Everyone please please pray that Fisher is no longer allergic to dairy. He is going to be heartbroken if he still his. I will update as soon as we get home. His appointment is at 2:15, so please pray, pray pray!
Thanks!

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Sunday, March 12, 2006 8:59 PM CST

Hello everyone! Well, I think the sinus infection has past. I sure hope so. He was one miserable little bug when he was sick. He is still coughing a lot, but the fever is gone and the "ewwwies" in his nose are gone. So, Mr Fishie Bug will be on the bus in the morning.

Thank you all for your prayers. I sure do appreciate them.
Have a great day tomorrow!
With love from Va,
Carolyn

PS Please don't forget the hug meter. Fisher loves watching the counter get higher! Thanks.

Wednesday, March 8, 2006 7:03 PM CST

This should be titled "Carolyn's Journey to the Funny Farm".
That is what happens when you have a very active 7 year old who has been cooped up in the house for almost a week. This poor child is bouncing off the walls. He is a bit better, but not entirely fever free yet, and his sinus's are still yucky. (that is all I will say for the weak)

He sends his love to everyone and says thank you for all the get well guestbook entries. He loves to see who has signed his book. He is keeping a watch on the hug counter too. So, keep those hugs coming. :) Thanks for checking on him.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Tuesday, March 7, 2006 10:56 AM CST

Well, Fisher is still sick. His temperature went up again last night and was still up this morning. He has had some pretty bad coughing fits too.

His spirits are good thank goodness. Thanks for praying for him. I will update again this evening or in the morning.

Thanks for checking on him. We love you all.
With love from Va,
Carolyn

Monday, March 6, 2006 1:37 PM CST

A Fishie update:

Well, as I suspected, Little Bug has a sinus infection. The dr prescribed antibotics and he should start feeling better in a few days.

Thanks for checking on us.
With love from Va,
Carolyn

Sunday, March 5, 2006 1:27 PM CST

Update Sunday:

Fisher is feeling a bit better today. His fever has come down from 101.6 to 100.6. He is playing more today, but he still isn't up to par. I will be taking him to his dr as soon as we get an appointment on Monday.

Thanks for all the prayers!
With Love from Va,
Carolyn

Saturday, March 4, 2006 8:10 PM CST

Update on Fisher:

He is still sick. He still has a temp over 101. Thank goodness he doesn't have a port. I spoke to one of the peds where he goes to the dr. She thinks its something viral. We will take him in on Monday. Little Bug is so sick, he doesn't feel like playing his games. Now you know he is sick, when he doesn't want to "game". Please keep him in your prayers.

Thank you for checking on us.
With Love from Va,
Carolyn

Friday, March 3, 2006 7:06 PM CST

Hello everyone. I am going to make this quick. Please pray for Fisher. He was sent home today with a high fever (101.3) I just took it again and it has gone up a bit to 101.6. Please pray that he feels better. We took him to the dr yesterday and the strep test they gave him was negative. But tonight, he is one sick little Fishie. Please pray for him.

Love you all,
Carolyn

Friday, February 24, 2006 6:22 AM CST

Good morning everyone! The appointment for the allergist is March 21st. Please pray that Fisher is no longer allergic to dairy. He so wants to have pizza, mac and cheese and ice cream. I hope the answer can be easily found. He even wanted to try some milk over the weekend. Bless his heart, we couldn't let him do that. Hopefully, he will be able to soon.

Everything here is going great. Finally, we have room to breathe easier, and things are looking up. It has been a long haul, but thank goodness we are out of the "tight" spot we were in.

Now, I have to say a few things about the people who have and continue to help us through Fisher's illness. (If I leave someone out, please know it is not intentional) I must thank my mom and my sister, Terrie for all they have done for us, especially in the early days when we first found out just how serious Fisher's condition is. They were there to hold us, cry with us, and help us find *something to laugh about. The next three groups of people were the next to find out about Fisher and they are the July 98 Mom's board (AOL), my SpeakEz trivia friends, and my friends on the moms debate boards. From those groups, I have had the honor of making friends with Stacy, Kathie, and 'Grandma Joan'. Words can not express the support these three women have given me over the years. I am truly blessed to have them in my life.

I hope you all don't get tired of hearing about Keith Urban and what he means to our family. But, when you hear your four year old son singing "I'm alive and I'm free, who wouldn't want to be me?" During and after chemotherapy, it rocks your world. And to have that same child at 7 declare to the world that "Days Go By" is his "off chemotherapy" song, to me is astonishing. As remarkable as Keith Urban is, his fans are even more incredible. You all remember how they pulled it all together and made the meet and greet happen. Fisher still refuses to allow me to change the photo at the top of the page. From KU's fans Fisher and I have made friends with "Aunt Judy" and perhaps one of the sweetest most caring ladies I have ever known, Joanie Marie. Thank you both for what you mean to us.

Many other people have helped to make this road we are traveling less stressful. The wonderful people at the Virginia Beach Hilton (Katie and Brandon you guys are the very best!!) Family on Robbie's side, The Make-a-Wish Foundation, Believe in Tommorrow, our local country music station Eagle 97 (www.eagle97.com listen to them live and tell them Fisher sent ya), my friends on Pogo.com, VAB, the faculty and staff at my boys schools, Kody and his mom, Cheyenne and her parents, the Tumbleweed Foundation, Children of Promise, the Butterfly Lady and Webber Racing, Helen and her calender, our neighbors and the Chesapeake Fire Department.

More importantly to me, I must thank God. There have been nights and days when I have felt like I was all alone. Then a small Voice comes to me and lets me know that He is there, and He will see me through. I am so thankful that God chose me to be Fisher's mom.

So there ya have it :). Two years chemo free!! It has been an amazing roller-coaster ride. Here's praying for 2, 4, 6, 8 an so on more years chemo free.

Thank you all for the guestbook entries and hugs. Fisher watches them daily.
We love you all!!

With love from Va,
A very grateful Carolyn

Tuesday, February 7, 2006 6:58 AM CST

Good morning everyone! I hope you all are having a great week. Yesterday's brain tumor clinic appointment went great. Dr. B said that Fisher looks great, and unless something changes, he will see us back again in 6 months :). The other drs really helped us out a lot. The endocrinologist, has referred him to see a gastro dr to determine if he is still allergic to dairy. We have our fingers crossed that he has outgrown it. Fisher is actually excited to find out, because then he can have his most coveted food item: PIZZA. So, hopefully, he is passed the allergy and we can get him to start gaining weight. He is still within the 5th percentile, the "good" news is, he hasn't fallen off that line. The next dr he saw was the PT dr. She is wonderful. We are going to send Fisher to OT outside of school to give him additional support and to help him with his handwriting/fine motor skills. So the visit to the drs was great. LONG, LONG, LONG, but great.

While we were there, we were able to visit with Brandon (www.caringbridge.org/va/brandonh) and his mom. It has been ages since we have seen them, and it was so nice to visit. Fisher was also able to see his hero, Mr Brian. Fisher's whole face lit up when he saw Brian. Of course, there were lots and lots of hugs and they got to catch up a bit. Fisher told Brian all about his new games he through in there that Spyro is still is favorite. It was so wonderful to see Fisher so happy with his buddy.

We have crossed a wonderful milestone, as of January 31, Fisher is 2 years off chemo!! I think that is amazing. When we first started this journey, we never thought we would be where we are right now. I have more to say about this, and I will when I update again later this week.

Thank you for checking on us. We love you all!

With love from VA,
Carolyn

Thursday, January 19, 2006 7:39 AM CST

I sure hope all of you are having a wonderful morning! I know I am! Are you guys ready for some good news? Wait, its not “good news”, its GREAT NEWS!! Fisher’s tumors remain stable!! I am so thankful to the good Lord. We have been beside ourselves with worry. I was worried because, I thought I was seeing little things happening around me to prepare me for bad news. Before we got the results, every time I turned on the radio or the TV, I heard or saw stories about a child being sick and dying. This seemed to go on for days and days. I know now it was just me being a neurotic mom again.
I am so happy that these tumors are stable. I can’t even put into words how I feel about it. Having said that though, there is another area of concern, Fisher’s size he is still not growing like he should. I know it could be that he is just going to be a little guy. But, that does not fit the pattern for our family. His 17 year old brother is 6’ 4” and his 16 year old brother is roughly 6’9”. I am going to wait and see what the endocrinologist says on the 6th. For now, I am going to just enjoy the fantastic MRI results.

Have a fantastic day!
With Love from Va,
Carolyn

Thursday, January 12, 2006 6:33 AM CST

Surprise! Surprise! Yes! It’s an update! Boy, the two months have been really rough for us. First Fisher got sick, then I got sick, then my husband got sick. Thankfully, Fisher is totally over his and I am very close to being over it. The bad thing is, Robbie is still sick. He is back to work, but, he still isn’t even close to being over it. Please pray that he gets over this soon.

Monday is Fisher’s MRI, and I am a basket case over it. Of course, I always get this way when it gets close. This is the longest he has gone without one in about 3 or 4 years. It’s been 6 months. Robbie and I are on pins and needles. We understand though, that we have to leave it in God’s Hands. God will see us through.

I will have some new pictures on the album page this weekend. Thank you for checking on us. We love you all.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Thursday, December 29, 2005 5:56 PM CST

Hello everyone. I am finally feeling well enough to post an update. I am so sorry it has taken so long, but, I truly felt like I wasn’t going to make it. I am getting better and better as each day passes thank the good Lord.

Lets see, where do I start? I know! First and foremost, I must thank Fisher’s special friends, “Grandma Joan” and Ms Joanie. Thank you so much for everything!! Also to all who sent us Christmas cards, thank you so much.

We finally finished up our shopping on Christmas Eve. Robbie was stressing because he didn't think he bought me enough. I wasn't worried about it because, I feel like I am driving my Christmas present. We went out with the intention of him buying me something. Of course we ended up buying the kids more stuff and that was fine with me. He really wanted to buy me a "real" wedding set, and actually we looked at a nice set and the price was good too. But, they didn't have my size, and I really am not into the whole "flashy" jewelry thing. Anyway, we went to Terrie's house for my family get together. It was very nice. My mom had some very nice and thoughtful gifts for everyone. She gave me a beautiful jacket that has fur on it, a watch and some scrap booking stuff. She gave Robbie some really neat tools, a wallet and warm hat. She really gave the boys some nice stuff too. (Josh: workout stuff; Wayne remote controlled aircraft; Fisher a toy laptop and a radio controlled car) We surprised her with cold hard cash :). Each of the boys gave her a card with money in it and Robbie and I gave her a card with cash in it too.

Then we came home and we opened presents here. Robbie gave me a new wallet a lighthouse picture frame and my most favorite gift a crystal lighthouse that sets on multicolored lights. It is beautiful. I wanted to make sure that Robbie had a wonderful Christmas too. We gave him a variety of stuff including: slippers that massage the feet, a George Foreman grill, and a leaf blower. The leaf blower is more of a gag gift because our neighbors are always out blowing their leaves and he says, "I bet they wish I'd get out there and do ours". He got a big kick out of it.

Lets see, we bought Josh his own X-box (so he would leave Fisher's alone), Wayne got a TV that he can take to his friends house to system link and play X-box games on. Fisher got a Mickey Mouse TV and they each got lots of little stuff too. On Christmas morning Santa brought Fisher some King Kong stuff and a couple games. The older boys got CDs, and little stuff too. All in all it was a wonderful day.

But, as our luck would have it, we have a couple really good days, then we get hit with a whopper of a bad day. Monday morning, we got up, and Robbie wanted to go and get me a new computer. We both needed some coffee, so he asked me to go to 7-11 while he finished up a game he was playing on the computer. I started out of our neighborhood, and I looked to the right, and I saw something lying in the road. When I went to check it out, it was Fidget. He was dead :(. We aren't sure what happened because he really didn't look like he had been hit by a car. Robbie got Josh up and they went down and got him and poor Josh tearfully buried him in the backyard. Fidget was Josh's buddy and Josh just cried and cried. Wayne came out to the back and just patted Josh's back. After we buried Fidget, Robbie made Josh take a shower and told him that he should go with us. Fisher wanted to stay home with Wayne. This was a good thing because Josh needed some “Mommy and Daddy” time if you know what I mean. Well, I went and looked at the computers, and I still didn't see anything I wanted because my heart and my mind was on what had happened earlier. We then went to PetSmart and looked around at the fish and the lizards. Josh really seemed interested in the lizards. Robbie then wanted to take him to a different pet store to see the larger lizards. So, off we went. When we got there, it was "love at first sight" Josh fell in love with a bearded dragon lizard. So, we now have new member of the family his name is "Blitz". We were told that it would take a few weeks for Blitz to tame down to like to be held and babied. Well, it was a match made in Heaven, because, that same night, Josh had that thing riding on his shoulder. Blitz snapped Josh out of his depression over Fidget. I know it will bother him for a long time, and I know he will miss Fidget. But, he has a place to channel the love he has for animals. So, it was worth giving up my new computer to make my son happy. I, on the other hand, am a mess. I really miss Fidget. I bottle fed him when he was a baby. He was like my baby. It’s hard for me to grasp that he is gone. We just told Fisher about it and he is heartbroken. He blames himself for letting Fidget out. I wish there was a way I could heal his broken heart.

Today, I spent most of the day at the Urgent Care Center with Robbie. Leave it to him to try and out-do me. He has pneumonia and he is confined to the bed for a bit. Poor guy, he really does feel terrible. I tell ya, sometimes it seems like we just can’t get a break.

We also have a date for Fisher’s next MRI: January 16th. Man, what a day to have something as serious as an MRI done. January 16, is the date my beloved Mother-in-law passed away, and on that same day, we found out Fisher’s brainstem tumor has started to grow. That was the start of the series of events that brought us to where we are today. I am hoping and praying for wonderful news though. I will let you all know as soon as I know the results.

Thank you for checking on us. I hope you all have a very safe, and Happy New Year!

With Love from Va,
Carolyn

Thursday, December 15, 2005 2:05 PM CST

Hello everyone. I am so sorry I haven’t updated in awhile. I do have a good reason though. I have been so sick. I know I had said before that I was concerned about what Fisher had being something more than just a cold (as in I thought it could be tumor related). Well, I no longer think that. I have had a horrible, horrible cough/cold/flu for about three and a half weeks. I actually have been so sick I thought I was dying. I am telling you, I have a new found respect for the kids who deal with being sick for extended amounts of time. I don’t know how they do it. I couldn’t. They are all truly heroes and the bravest of the brave. I am feeling a tad better, so I thought I’d jump on here and at least let you all know that we haven’t fallen off the face of the earth. (although I have felt like it) Fisher is much, much better and has gone back to school and has finally adjusted back to the routine of going.

I will update more when I feel up to it. Thanks for checking on us. We love you all.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Wednesday, November 23, 2005 9:08 AM CST

Okay, okay so I left you guys hanging for an extra day! Here we go for the rest of the story.

Saturday morning, we woke up and we started thinking about what kind of sign we could make for the concert. I wanted to try and get my friend on stage to get a hug from Keith. As the day went on, I kept thinking about it. We went to Walmart to get the digital photos we had of Fisher with Little Big Town and a couple CDs. Joanie wanted to buy some snacks to take to Keith’s road crew. While we were there, she kept trying to distract me, hoping I would forget about the sign, and I almost did. But, I didn’t. We got lunch for the guys and headed home. After much debate about the sign, we decided on “Fisher wants his Joanie to get a Keith hug!!” The sign was made, we got ready and we left. Now, on the post about Friday, I failed to mention that Joanie had given us green Keith Urban shirts so all three of us were dressed alike. I thought it would be a good idea if Fisher and I dressed alike again incase we got separated; it would be easier to get us back together.

The route we had to take was through an area that had a brand new traffic pattern, and of course, I missed our turn. It was easy enough to get back on track, but, before we entered the tunnel that would lead us to Norfolk, Fisher had a very bad coughing spell. The spell was so bad, he threw up all over himself. We pulled over and pulled off the pukey clothes and wrapped Little Man up in my jacket. We found the venue and we found the buses. Joanie wanted to take the snacks to the crew before we took off to find Fisher something else to wear. After a few mins, she came back and asked me if we wanted to take a tour of one of the buses. Of course we did, so I bundled Fisher off and carried him to the bus. (He may be little, but he is HEAVY) The tour was very cool. Keith’s road crew is so nice. They were asking about Fisher and we gave them a brief history of Fisher and why Keith is so special to him. We thanked them and off we went to find Fishie some clothes. That took no time and we were back to the venue WITH a fantastic parking spot near the buses. As we walked by the road crew guy wanted to see the sign we made for Joanie. He said that he would try to get the sign on the monitors.

We took Fisher to walk around the venue and he was able to see another one of his favorite persons, the best radio announcer on the planet Jimmy Ray from Eagle 97. (Fisher just adores Jimmy Ray) Then we had the all important task of getting Fisher something to eat. Luckily there was a McDonalds within walking distance of the venue. Dinner was over and it was finally time to go to inside the venue for the concert. We found our seats fairly easily and discovered that we had great seats for the second half of the show. (Keith rides this trapeze to the middle of the floor seats and sings on a stage “in the round”) Through this part of the evening, Fisher kept having coughing spells. As you can imagine, I was getting worried that this “sinus thing” is really something else.

Our row and the seats around us started filling up, and we met some very nice people. Once again, Fisher got very quiet and very still. Yep, once again he was asleep. He did wake up sooner this time and was able to enjoy Little Big Town’s performance and he was REALLY up and awake when Keith came out. Fisher was singing and dancing and having a ball. Then came time for Keith to ride the trapeze to the back stage, the people that were seated behind us, asked if they could take Fisher closer to the stage. They were with in our eye view, so of course we said ok. For that part of the concert, Fisher had front row seats. He loved every minute of it. Joanie was all teary eyed because one of her wishes for Fisher was that he would have front row seats for a KU concert. Bless her heart, she is so sweet. Now, I have to step out of the ‘mom’ mode for a brief second here and say that seeing the concert from this close… ummm all I can say is: “Woohoo!”.

When Keith went back to the front stage it was time for a brief intermission. That is when I bought Fisher his blue KU shirt. We went back to our seats and after a bit, the concert was coming to an end. Fisher had another severe coughing spell. This one took a bit longer for him to get control. I really thought he was going to lose it again, but he didn’t. It was then KU started singing, “these are the days we will remember, these are the days that won’ come again. The highest of flame becomes an ember, you got to live them while you can…” At this point I lost it. I just started crying. I know the people around me probably thought I was some silly fan crying because I was at a KU concert. But I am sure you guys know why I lost it. The fans at the concert were seeing Keith sing. But, I was seeing flashbacks of different things dealing with Fisher. As a parent of a child with an illness like Fisher’s, I will cry at the least little thing. This song in particular makes me cry, because Fisher say’s “Days Go By” is his off chemo song and until you hear the song, you can’t fully appreciate just how touching that comment is.

Once the concert was over, we wanted to go and see Little Big Town again, so that Fisher could present them with pictures of them all together and I wanted them to autograph one for him. While we were waiting in line, he had yet another coughing spell. But it didn’t last very long thank goodness. As we got closer, we saw the same crew member from Friday night, and he told me about how much of an impression Fisher made on them all the night before. I hear that a lot from people, but it never ceases to amaze me. When it was Fisher’s turn to talk to the band, they stopped everyone from coming near the table so he could ‘visit’. He gave each one of them a picture and they asked HIM to autograph each one. There were fans standing behind the line, and they were all cheering Fisher and snapping pictures. Little Big Town was talking to Fisher and the girls were hugging him. Again I lost it. I just started crying. For this band to take time out of their night to make my son feel so special, it just touched me to the very core of my being. When Fisher finished with the band, he was talking to some of his “fan clubbers” and he asked if he could use this one lady’s camera. He took a few umm shall we say interesting pictures. We all said our good-byes and we went around to the buses. We were still hoping Fisher would be able to meet with Keith. I wanted him to meet with Keith just so I could change the picture on this page that has been there for over a year now.

When we got around the buses, there were fans standing around waiting for a glimpse of KU. One of the band members was out there so Fisher got to meet Chris from the band. After a bit, Fisher looked at me and said, “I’m ready to go”. At that point, I knew he had had enough. Once Fisher gets to that point, its time to go. I know it sounds horrible, but even if Keith Urban would have walked out, and Fisher was still ready to go, we would have walked away. So, Joanie continued to visit with the fans and a few crew/band members and Fisher and I went to the van. He wasn’t in his seat for more than 3 mins and he was out like a light. So, in the end, Fisher never did get to meet with Keith. But, that is okay. The whole weekend was full of wonderful memories I will never forget. So now all that is left to say is: “these are the days we will remember, these are the days that won’ come again. The highest of flame becomes an ember, you got to live them while you can…”

Thank you all for checking on us. We love you all.
With love from Va,
Carolyn

PS I would post about our new van, but, this is already way too long. I will say that if any of you in our area need to get a new/used vehicle, a you want to have a salesperson who will not jerk you around, please go see Brandon at Priority Chevrolet on Military Hwy. He is awesome!! (I will post about the van in a few days. It is a great story too)

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!!

Monday, November 21, 2005 5:09 PM CST

Okay, when we left off, we were headed into the venue to see Keith Urban’s opening act, Little Big Town.

Before we went to our seats, Fisher just *had* to have a big pretzel, after I checked out the ingredients, to make sure it was diary free, Joanie bought two of them and two huge cokes. We found our seats and settled down. Now, most of you probably purchase pretzels so you can eat, well the pretzel. Not Fisher, he wants a pretzel for one reason, the salt. These pretzels were the saltiest pretzels on the planet. He was in pretzel-salt-heaven! After he picked off all the salt he wanted he took a couple of sips of coke and then he got quiet. Now when Fisher gets still and he is quiet, he is either plotting his next move to torture me, or he is asleep. Well, apparently he had tortured me enough for one day because he was sound asleep. Out came the opening group, “Little Big Town” and they gave a fabulous performance. They sang my family’s favorite, “Boondocks”. After their set, they invited everyone to come by their table at the end of the night to meet them and to get autographs. Poor little Fisher was still sound asleep. He slept through their singing, through everyone singing and cheering, and then through the intermission.

Finally, Keith came out to sing. His opening number was Fisher’s “off chemo song” more commonly known to everyone else as “Days Go By”. Of course Fisher slept through that too. He finally woke up and was able to enjoy most of the show. He was singing and dancing and having a blast. He got real excited when Keith started singing “Fisher’s song” (aka “Who Wouldn’t Want to Be Me?”). He sang every single word of that song and a bunch of others. It was very clear that Fisher was having the time of his life. I had fun watching Fisher have fun. (Watching Keith sing wasn’t so bad either!) One of the final songs of the night was my personal favorite, “Better Life”.

Once the concert was over, we waited for the crowd to thin out a bit so we could make our way to meet the group “Little Big Town”. While we were waiting in line, Joanie being the ultra-mega Urban Monkey she is, knew some of the members of Keith’s crew, one in particular was standing near the band making CDs and photo’s available for fans to purchase. Joanie purchased one for Fisher, and she introduced us to the crew member. I was so surprised that Fisher waited as patiently as he did; he did inform me that he had something he wanted to give them and I didn’t think anything about what it could be. I did know that Joanie had a couple of the calendars that Helen makes that she wanted to give to Keith. (complete with a Fisher autograph) When it was our turn, Fisher said “Momma look away!!” He gave them the signed paper he made and asked them to give it to Keith. He asked them to tell him that everyone hopes he feels better soon. They just fell in love with Fisher. They asked if he could get up on the table for a picture. So, they took one, and we took one. I told them a little bit about Fisher and his condition, and then we were off.

Now if ever any of you take I-64 from Richmond into Hampton at 12 midnight and you are hungry, you can forget about finding anything open. We traveled from Richmond all the way into Chesapeake, and there wasn’t a single thing open. We were lucky enough to see a beautiful shooting star. Finally, finally finally we were home. Fisher was carried in to bed, and I collapsed into a deep, deep sleep. Before I fell asleep, I wondered how Saturday night would ever top Friday night. We had such a wonderful time. Little did I know what the next night would bring.

To be continued……….of course!!

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Sunday, November 20, 2005 3:51 PM CST

Hello everyone. I am sorry it again has taken me so long to update. We have had a lot going on here. First of all, thank you all for your emails and well wishes for our special prayer requests. It looks like they all have been answered. We are hoping to get our new van either Monday or Tuesday!

Our Little Fishie Bug has been so sick. We really can’t get it pinned down to what it is. They seem to think he has a sinus infection but, we just aren’t sure. Poor little guy just coughs and coughs and coughs. Once he gets started it is very hard for him to regain his composure and he usually ends up throwing up. ( Sorry to be so crude ) When ever something out of the ordinary like this happens, we can’t help but get concerned as to whether it is tumor related or not. Please pray that he feels better soon.

Despite Fisher being sick, we had an amazing weekend!! It started Thursday, when our good friend JoanieMarie came to visit us from Florida. She came to treat Fisher and I to TWO Keith Urban concerts. We hadn’t seen her since our Disney trip in January, so it was so wonderful to see her again. She stayed at our house, and it was nice to have another female in the house for a change. My nephew, Cory took me to the airport to pick her up, and on the way there, he told me that he surprised his fiancée with two tickets in the nosebleed section for Saturday night’s show. Joanie’s flight finally made it in and I was so happy to see her!! Cory went on his way to see his honey, and Joanie and I were off to eat and have a nice long visit.

Friday morning, the older boys were off to school, and we were off to Richmond for concert #1. After a long, long, long hour and a half road trip (Several coughing spells none of which resulted in a puking episode), we finally arrived at the venue we were able to find a fantastic parking space and it was time for lunch. We saw a group of fellow “Urbanites” or “Monkeys” aka Keith Urban fans. Fisher had to meet all of the ladies (yes, he is his Father’s son). He charmed them all, he showed off his autographed KU jacket, and they all wanted to know the story behind the story. After a while, they invited us to a “Monkey Gathering” and we all went our separate ways. Joanie and I took Fisher back to the van (a ‘sweet’ rented Town and Country) and we were able to get Fisher to rest a bit. He could hardly sit still because he wanted to go back and see all the women again.

(Side note here: Once Fisher realized we were going to see Keith in concert, he really wanted to be able to meet with Keith again. Now, as an adult, I know that Keith isn’t going to have time to meet with every fan who wants to meet him. But a seven-year-old who has dubbed this guy his “buddy”, it would be hard to understand. So, we had to break it down to something he would understand. Because it was very important to me that Fisher keep that “buddy” image of Keith since it has helped him through some very difficult times. We told Fisher that Keith had been very busy and that he, himself, wasn’t feeling all that great and Keith would have to rest when he wasn’t on stage. Fisher understood that and he was okay with not meeting Keith this time.)

When it was time for us to go to a hotel for the Monkey Gathering, Fisher was so excited. He saw his new lady friends, and he asked one of them for a sheet of paper. He then stood on a table and was calling all the women over asking for their autographs, by asking, “Who is Keith Urban’s number one fan?? Sign here if you are his number one fan!!”. Finally, I asked him why he was doing that. He said he was putting together signatures so everyone could send Keith a “Get Well Soon Wish”. Of course Joanie and I thought that was the most priceless thing ever, and I wanted to save it or at least scan it so I could be able to capture that memory forever. Fisher had it in his mind that he was getting that Get Well Wish to Keith no matter what. We finally had to tell him that he would be going to another concert on Saturday night so he would hush about the note. The note ended up with about 50 or more autographs on it.

While he was asking all these ladies for their autographs, they were asking him if they could get a picture with him. He had his own little fan club there. It was so wonderful and it touched me so much that these ladies were making him feel like he was the “star”. It was one of many teary-eyed moments for me over the weekend. All the hotel guests in the lobby were asking, Who is this kid, and why is everyone getting photos with him?” I know I am rambling here, but during all the photos and autographs it was clear that Fisher was sick too because they had to stop for a coughing spell.

It was time to head on over to the concert hall to see the opening act “Little Big Town”.

To be continued……….

Monday, October 17, 2005 10:53 AM CDT

Hello everyone. After many attempts, I am going to try once again, to update. Going through AOL’s browser has been a nightmare.

Fisher has had some good days, and some bad days. He went to school this morning, and I had to go and pick him up because he was sick. On the way home, he was asking about my Grandmother. I told him about her, and he asked me where she was. I told him she was in Heaven and she could look down and see him. He asked me if I could throw him up to Heaven so he could see her and his Nanny and Paw. I explained to him that one day, when the time was right, Jesus would come and get him and he would be in Heaven with everyone he loves. He then said, “Momma, that day is going to be soon.” I hate it when he talks like that. I asked him why he felt that way, and he said, “I just do”. Right now he is lying down, and he is watching Lazy Town.

Fisher loves school so much. We had some issues with his IEP, but, thankfully, they were taken care of right away. Right now, Fisher’s area of concern, is staying focused and on task. But, I think that is a combination of things, ranging from his illness to just being a 7 year old. One of the issues we have had, have been in the area of PE and of Fisher’s lunch. You would be so surprised at all the foods they serve that have dairy in them. I do have to give it to the school though, whenever there has been a concern of ours, they are quick to get it resolved. I know that not all parents have it so lucky. In fact, even at the high school, they have really worked with us through all of our problems.

A few prayer requests for you guys, our van is literally on its last leg. We are looking into getting another one. Please pray that we can get one that would fit into our already tight budget. Also, I have two requests, I can’t really talk about, but they are pretty urgent.

Thank you all for checking on us. We love you all.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Saturday, September 17, 2005 10:30 PM CDT

I am trying once again to post an update about Fisher. For some reason, the updates are not making it through.

Fisher has started school, and he loves it. He has a wonderful Special Education teacher, and his First Grade teacher is a sweetheart. I keep hearing comments like "Fisher is so smart" "Fisher has a big vocabulary" The latter scares me a bit, because, I never know what he is going to say.
Since I last posted, we have an addition to the family. Fisher now has a puppy. Her name is "Midnight" and she is already spoiled rotten. Fidget and Midnight love to play together, and they even take naps together.
Fisher has been having some very good days here lately. He still has bad days too, but, we are trying to focus on the good days. He has discovered that he really likes orange juice too. That has made us really happy because we can get calcium in him now.

This week we were able to go to a Make-a-Wish event. A golf tournament sponsored by a local credit union. We had a wonderful time. Thursday, we went to a Ruritan Club meeting and a family who escaped Hurrican Katrina were there. Fisher hit it off with their little girl. He shared his Gameboy SP with her, and the two of them played together like old friends. On the way home, he told me that he was so happy he went because he made a new friend. I was so impressed with the way he shared his Gameboy (a big step for him) and how he played so nicely.

Well that is about it for now. Thank you all for checking on us. We love you all!
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

PS Thank you all for your prayers for Fisher's buddy Jessie (his buddy who went to Iraq) You will all be happy to know that Jessie is now, home, SAFE!!

Sunday, August 28, 2005 4:06 AM CDT

I have tried numerous times to update this page. For some reason it just won't send. So, here I am at 5 am trying to update. Hopefully, this time, it will go through.

Fisher has had a good week this week. He has played with his game systems and basically has spent the week relaxing. We have been spent the weekend getting the stuff the boys need to go back to school. All three of them are ready to go back.

Fisher's neurologist had his assistant call me again to assure me that the MRI was unchanged from the previous scans.
Thank you all for checking on us, we love you all.
With love from Va,
Carolyn

Saturday, August 20, 2005 11:26 AM CDT

"Ain't nothin' gonna break my stride
Nobody's gonna slow me down, oh no
I got to keep on moving
Ain't nothin' gonna break my stride
I'm running and I won't touch ground, oh no
I got to keep on moving"

I finally found a song that totally and completely fits Fisher. I was in Ci Ci's last night getting some pasta to go for him and "Break My Stride" (Matthew Wilder) came on. I stopped what I was doing right then and there and started laughing. The chorus of that song is Fisher made over. (I know you all will have that song stuck in your head now.) He wakes up any where from 7 to 9 am and he hits the ground running. He doesn't stop until bedtime which is about 8-8:30 pm. Even though there are days when I wish he would just slow down just for 10 mins, there is never a day, that I am not thankful he is so busy. When I was pregnant with him and had my first ultrasound (at 18 weeks) the tech said to me, "I hope you have good running shoes, this one is all over!!"

I heard from Fisher's neurologist's medical assistant, and she said that word is all tumors are stable; there is no change. Thank goodness! There are still a few concerns I need to have addressed, so the neuro is calling me on Monday. (And yes, I know that the chemo doctor told me the same thing.)

Well, that is it for today! Thanks for checking on us, have wonderful weekend!

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Wednesday, August 17, 2005 10:24 AM CDT

This morning, I asked Fisher how he was feeling and he started singing this song. I thought it would make a great entry today:

Artist/Band: Urban Keith
Lyrics for Song: Days Go By
Lyrics for Album: Be Here
I'm changing lanes an' talkin' on the phone,
An' drivin' way too fast.
An' the Interstate's jammed with gunners like me,
Afraid of coming in last.
But somewhere in the race we run,
We're comin' undone.

An' days go by:
I can feel 'em flying like a hand out the window in the wind.
The cars go by:
Yeah, it's all we've been given, so you better start livin' right now,
'As days go by.
Ooh, ooh.

Out on the roof just the other night,
I watched the world flash by.
Headlights, tail-lights runnin' through a river,
Of neon signs, mmm, mmm.
But somewhere in the rush I felt:
We're losing ourselves.

An' days go by:
I can feel 'em flying like a hand out the window in the wind.
The cars go by:
It's all we've been given, so you better start livin' right now,
An' days go by.
Oh yeah, ooh, ooh.
Yeah, the days go by, ooh, ooh.

We think about tomorrow,
Then it slips away, oh yes it does.
We talk about forever,
But we've only got today.

An' the days go by:
I can feel 'em flying like a hand out the window as the cars go by.
It's all we've been given, so you better start livin',
You better start livin',
Better start livin' right now.

'Cause days go by:
I can feel 'em flying like a hand out the window in the wind.
The cars go by:
It's all we've been given, so you better start livin' right now,
As days go by.
Ooh, ooh,
Yeah, as days go by,
Ooh, ooh.

Oh, so take 'em by the hand, they're yours an' mine.
Take 'em by the hand an' live your life.
Take 'em by the hand, don't let them all fly by
C'mon, c'mon now.
Yeah, c'mon,
Ooh, ooh.

Don't you know that days go by.

I guess that says it all! Have a happy day. Thanks for checking on us.
We love you all.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Tuesday, August 16, 2005 8:47 AM CDT

Before I update on Fishie, I am asking all of you to please pray for Cody and his family. (note that is Cody with a “C” not Kody with a “K”) They really are in need of prayer right now. If you get the chance, please go by his page and let his mom know you are praying for him. His page is www.caringbridge.org/va/cody.

Now on to our little Fishman. We arrived at the clinic around 11:45. We waited for a bit, and they called him back to the triage. The nurse weighed him, took his height, and his vitals. You all know that the weight thing has been an ongoing issue for us. Thursday, when they weighed him, he was 38 pounds. Yesterday when they weighed him, he weighed in at 41.3 pounds. I thought to myself, “There is no way this child has gained three pounds just over the weekend. I made a mental note to tell the endo that. Then we went back out to the waiting room. We waited for about 30 mins, then we were called back to a room. Once we were able to go to the back, Fisher was able to see two of his favorite people: Mrs Teresa, and yes, Mr Brian. Fishie was happy to see them both.

The first doctor to see Fisher was his endocrinologist. She checked him out and was very pleased. She was happy about his growth. I mentioned to her my doubts about the weight and she weighted him again. Much to my surprise, the 41.3 pounds was correct! We concluded, that the weight on Thursday, was wrong because, trust me, there is no way Fisher could have gained that much weight because he barely ate anything all weekend. Next, we went over his blood work. He is still mildly anemic. She explained to me about the growth hormone thing. Yes, it is low, but, it is within the acceptable range for his bone age. So, for now, there will be no growth hormone therapy!

Next was the educational specialist. She asked a bunch of questions, and just sort of hung out with us to see how things are going on the educational front. Since school is still out, there really wasn’t much to discuss, but, it was so nice to see her. You can tell she really cares about the kids.

Finally the person I really wanted to talk to came in, Fisher’s oncologist. We went over the radiologist report. All that led to was even more questions. The report shows that the tumors are stable. But, Fisher continues to have these terrible headaches. The radiologist seems to conclude that the brain stem tumor and the cervical tumor actually are one tumor. (if that makes sense) I asked the doctor if that could be causing Fisher’s headaches, and he referred me to Fisher’s neurologist. Something new that was on the report was there is a small neurofibroma tumor growing at the base of Fisher’s skull near the left carotid artery. Again, the doctor referred me to Fisher’s neurologist because he didn’t know if that would be causing Fisher’s headaches. I have to say that the oncologist was very patient and he answered my questions. I have a call in to the neurologist to see what he thinks of the MRI. My gut tells me that there is something else going on, I just don’t know what it is.

Next was the physical therapist and she thought Fisher is progressing nicely.

I really don’t know what to make of the visit. I am truly thankful that the tumors are stable. Each of them are in places where surgery is not an option. The way these tumors work, the infiltrate, into the brain, mixing tumor and brain matter together. I would like to know why Fisher keeps getting these horrid headaches. I had hoped that we would be able to figure it out. I am not giving up on looking for answers.

Finally at 3:30 pm it was time to go home. I was so glad to be getting away from there. I was physically and mentally exhausted. Once we got home, I just sat down and cried. I hate to see Fisher in pain, and I really would like to have some answers. I don’t know what it means that while he was on treatment, the big deal argument was whether or not the brain stem tumor and the cervical tumor was one or two tumors. And now they are saying it is one tumor. My concern is that if during treatment, it looked like two tumors, and now it looks like one tumor, did it grow together? I don’t understand why he is having these headaches. I don’t understand what the deal is with the smallish tumor at the base of his skull. I know that his neurologist will be able to answer my questions. As soon as I get them, I will let you all know. Just to be clear though, I am truly thankful that the radiologist report says that the tumors are stable. I really am.

That’s it for now. Thanks for checking us. We love you all.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Monday, August 15, 2005 7:03 AM CDT

Good morning everyone. I hope you all had a nice weekend. We didn’t do much of anything. We just stayed close to home and did normal “weekend” stuff. Fisher played his games all weekend. He told me that he just didn’t feel good. When I asked him what was wrong, he said he didn’t want to talk about it. We have Brain Tumor Clinic today, and I hope that we can get to the bottom of some of these issues. I really don’t know how or even if they are related to his tumors, but I intend on asking a lot of questions today. The major thing though is the headaches. Yesterday, I had a headache and I was sort of talking to myself while I was on the computer, I said, “Man, my head hurts.” Fisher looked at me and said, “I know how you feel momma.” I felt so bad for him. Poor little guy. He also has been complaining about his neck hurting. We should get some answers plus the results of his MRI today.

I’m sorry I am making this so short today. I will try to post as soon as I get home today. Please keep Cody and his family in your prayers. (www.caringbridge/org/va/cody)

Thank you all for checking on us. Have a wonderful day. We love you all.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Friday, August 12, 2005 8:07 AM CDT

“These are the days we will remember,These are the times that won't come again, The highest of flames become an ember, And you gotta live 'em while you can”…. Keith Urban

“Momma I have a bad headache.” Words of terror to a mom with a kid with a brain tumor. Wednesday night was such a difficult night for me. Fisher had an terrible headache. When I tried to give him something for it, that is when the throwing up started. “Just lay down with me please”, he said. Of course I laid down with him and started rubbing his head.

“One more day, one more time, one more sunset, maybe I’d be satisfied. But then again I know what it would do, leave me wishing still for one more day with you”… Diamond Rio.

I laid with him, rubbing his head tears streaming down my cheeks, silently pleading with God not to let this headache mean something was going on. Finally, he was able to go to sleep. He really didn’t sleep well though. He told my husband that he was scared about the MRI. He has never said that before. My husband told assured him that everything would be alright.

Finally we left for the hospital. We arrived in day surgery around 11 am (he has to be sedated for his MRIs) There were lots of kids there waiting for various procedures. Of course Fisher had to single out the babies. He played with them and told them to be brave. He sang to them. The parents were amazed at how he was so comforting to their children. Honestly, so was I.

When they called us back, Fisher saw all of “his” nurses. These nurses have been taking care of him for his MRIs since he was 6 months old. He asked them all sorts of questions. He was very well behaved. They had this crib toy that had birds on the inside of this bubble type thing, it shined a light on the ceiling and it played music. He loved that thing. He played with it for a long time. I was amazed at how well behaved he was. He got the versed around 12:30 pm. He laid down and continued playing with that bird thing. He wanted the lights out and he wanted me to rub his head.

“These are the days we will remember, These are the times that won't come again, The highest of flames become an ember And you gotta live 'em while you can”

They took him down for the MRI, he begged me to stay with him. Of course I couldn’t, but I assured him I would be there when he woke up. While I was waiting, I almost went to visit another CB buddy that is in the PICU. (www.caringbridge.org/va/cody) But, I didn’t want to just show up. So, I just waited in the waiting room reading the paper, magazines and anything I could get my hands on. Finally he was in recovery! I went back to be with him, and he was sound asleep. While his nurse was accessing him, the Charge Nurse came over with a note for her. She looked at the note, looked at Fisher then she asked the Charge Nurse, “Okay, who do I call?” Instantly, I felt like I was going to pass out. I said “Uh, before you call anyone, what is going on?!?” Come to find out, it was just his blood sugar was low. I said “Unless you want to start performing CPR on me, don’t ever do that again.” After four or five red cherry popsicles, it was time to go.
Fisher fell asleep in the van on the way home, and slept almost all night. (The versed kicked in)

This morning he is up and says he feels good. We just watched Keith Urban on Good Morning America. I was treated to a duet. Keith was on the TV and Fisher beside me was singing “Days Go By”.

Later today, Fisher and I are going to the movies to see Sky High. I will update everyone as soon as I hear the results of the MRI.

That’s it from us for today. Thanks for checking on us. We love you all. Fisher just looked at me and said, “Momma, I love you”. I love you too Fisher, I love you too.

“These are the days we will remember, These are the times that won't come again, The highest of flames become an ember, And you gotta live 'em while you can”

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Friday, August 12, 2005 8:07 AM CDT

Thursday, August 11, 2005 7:29 AM CDT

Good Morning everyone. I thought I would update real quick before I leave for the hospital. Last night was a bad, bad night for Fisher, he had a horrid headache complete with the vomiting. I hope this MRI will give us some answers.

Fisher told me to tell everyone hello and that he loves y'all. He also wants me to tell y'all thank you for all the cards and presents he got for his birthday.

Well, that is it for now. I will update this evening when we get home. Have a wonderful day. Thanks for checking on us, we love you all.

With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Monday, August 8, 2005 11:30 AM CDT

Good afternoon everyone. I hope you all had a nice weekend. Fisher continues to have those stupid headaches. He had a pretty bad one Saturday. I hate seeing him in so much pain. He just laid in my arms and cried. We gave him some Tylenol and I had him lay quietly with me, and after about an hour or so, he said, "Okay Momma, I can control the pain now." That just killed me. Thankfully, his MRI is on Thursday, and hopefully we can find out what is causing all his pain. The brain "cracking" has also returned. Please remember him in your prayers.

Fisher had such a wonderful birthday. Thank you all for making it so special for him. He loved his birthday scrapbook so much.

I also have some very sad news. Fisher's buddy Kyle passed away yesterday at 11:45. I am so sad to hear about the passing of this sweet young man. He had a bright smile, and a very sweet nature about him. He fondly refered to Fisher as his "Little Bubby". If you get the chance, please go by and leave a message for his loving Mom, Crystal. His site is: www.caringbridge.org/nc/kyle1989.

Thank you all so much for checking on us.
We love you all.

With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Tuesday, August 2, 2005 7:59 AM CDT

Hello everyone! I hope you all are having a wonderful week. We are having a so, so week. Fisher is really starting to worry us with all these headaches. I have let the doctors know, and we all are anxiously waiting to see what the MRI show. Speaking of the MRI, the date of it has changed yet again. Fortunately, it’s to an earlier day. Now it’s Thursday, August 11. I wish it were earlier in the week, now we have to spend all weekend worrying about the results. I am trying to think positive though. I pray the tumors are stable.

We had a wonderful weekend! We were able to get away to Fisher’s “special place”, and it was wonderful!! We had such a marvelous time. To all those who made it happen, and you know who you are, a big, big thank you. To Katie and Maria, thank you so very much. Grandma Joan, Fisher opened one gift early and he freaked out. Thank you so much. He has spent literally hours playing them. To our “rock hound” friends in Arizona, thank you for everything. You guys ‘rock’. To our dear friends, Joanie, Danny and Geordan, thank you so much. Everyone who sent cards for Fisher’s Scrapbook, thank you. He is going to love it.

Fisher’s birthday is tomorrow. He is so happy to be turning seven. *I* am so happy he is turning seven. Each day with him is such a gift. Actually each day with all three of my boys is a gift, but you all know what I mean by it when I say, each day with Fisher is a gift. He is such an amazing little guy. I am so proud to be his mom. He tries to live each minute, each hour each day, to its absolute fullest. When he said that “Days Go By” is his ‘off chemo song’, he wasn’t joking, he tries to get the most out of every single day. He keeps me running, that is for sure. I feel so blessed to have been given the honor of being his mom. I just wish he wasn’t going through all this. At times it seems so unfair. I try so hard to understand, but, I come up with a big blank. Why is it that my son and all his friends out there have to endure all this? When I get to Heaven that is going to be one of the first things I ask God. I know he has a purpose in all this. I just wish I could understand. Sorry I didn’t mean to get off on a tangent like that.

If you have a chance to stop by tomorrow, please sign the guestbook and wish Fisher a Happy Birthday. Once again, like last year, Fisher would like you all to go to Sharethelove.org, and visit (and sign the guestbook) of seven kids. He loves to check out his guestbook to see who has signed and he is sure the other kids do too. So, if you get the chance, visit seven pages, and tell them Fisher sent ya!!

Well, that is it for today. I hope you all have a wonderful week. Thanks for checking on us. We love you all.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Thursday, July 21, 2005 4:14 PM CDT

Wednesday, July 27, 2005 3:08 PM CDT

Hello everyone! I thought I would show you guys just how hot it is here today. Yes, that is the actual air temperature! It is 115 degrees here today. That is without the heat index! With it, I think it is something like 125-130 out. What is up with that??? We don't live in the desert! We live in what is supposed to be a 'moderate' climate! Oh well, at least we don't have a hurricane headed our way. Yet!

Fisher is doing pretty good. He still is complaining about having headaches, but, thankfully, not as often. He is so excited about his birthday. He has no clue what we have planned for him. He will be so surprized!

For those of you who have sent cards and gifts thank you so much! I have them all tucked away for his birthday. He is going to love everything so much!

Well, that's it for now. Thanks for checking on us. We love you all. For everyone in the middle of this heat wave, stay inside or in the pool.

With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Thursday, July 21, 2005 4:14 PM CDT

Good evening everyone! I hope you guys are beating the heat. It has been horribly hot. Right now, as I type this, its 99 degrees out with a heat index of 110. Arghhh that is just too hot!!!

We have some news on Fisher’s blood tests. His thyroid function is “okay” but his growth hormone is low. What does that mean? Who the heck knows!? All I know is Fisher is very small for his age, and he isn’t growing. I sure hope someone can give us some answers.

Fisher’s birthday is fast approaching, if you want to be included in the birthday scrapbook, please send in your cards and pictures. He is really going to love the scrapbook.

Also, if you think about it, please pray that I get a job soon. I have been hunting and hunting for one. I really, really REALLY need one too. All of our savings, and reserve money have been tapped out. I am sure you parents know what I mean when I say “the wolves are banging at the door”. I don’t think it is right for my husband to shoulder all the burden to get the wolves to “go away”. So, I have decided to get a job to help out. Please pray I get one soon!!

That is it for today, thank you for checking on us. We love you all.
With love from Va,
Carolyn

PS Thank you Grandma Joan for everything! It sure is going to help us out!

Tuesday, July 19, 2005 6:42 AM CDT

Hello everyone! Thank you all for all the well wishes concerning my spider bite. I thought it was getting better, and then yesterday, it started turning red and swelling again. At least it’s not as painful as it was last week. I am continuing on the medication and I hope it helps.

Fisher had an appointment with his neurologist yesterday. The headache issue was addressed. The doctor put Fisher on a preventative medication. Another issue that came up again, was Fisher’s size. He still isn’t gaining any weight, and his growth rate has slowed down again. He is barely on the 2% curve. The medication for his headaches is supposed to stimulate his appetite. The doctor also ordered a whole array of blood tests.
We should hear about them soon.

Please remember Fisher’s Birthday Project. It is fast approaching! I am so excited. He is going to love the scrapbook.

Well, that is it for today. I hope you all have a great week. Thank you for checking on us. We love you all.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Friday, July 15, 2005 3:54 PM CDT

Hi everyone, sorry I haven't been around all week. I have been terribly sick. I got bit by a spider on my ankle and it got infected. I am ordered to stay off my ankle for a few days. Which is like torture to me. I will not be online for a few more days. My prayers are with all the kids and the families.
Carolyn

Monday, July 11, 2005 6:43 AM CDT

Hello everyone! Happy Monday to you all. I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. Ours was so so. Fisher still has a cold. He also has had nosebleeds off and on since Thursday. Of course I was on the phone to the dr and they seem to think that the nosebleeds are because of his cold. Last night he had us really worried because he had what Kody likes to call a "monsterache". We are hoping that it was also because of his cold because right now, he is fine. In fact, he is playing Spyro and he says his head doesn't hurt at all. I tell ya, it really scares me when he gets those headaches. I have to say last night was probably about as bad as I have seen him since before chemotherapy. He has an appointment coming up with his neurologist, so we will see how that goes.

Last Thursday we had the opportunity to meet some of Fisher's fans. They visited us all the way from Kansas! Raquell, Ed and Snibbles (Snib is from Williamsburg, Va). Thats right, we were able to meet part of Webre Racing! Fisher was thrilled to meet them. They had special gifts from Fisher's "Pretty Butterfly Lady", Dianne. They presented him with a butterfly bear, and a butterfly chain. He has carried them both around all weekend. Raquell made me a butterfly ankle bracelet. I just adore it. We visited like old friends for awhile, then, we went outside (to let Ed thaw out I think) and once the camcorder came out, my little ham went into action. He did scenes from "Fisher's Adventure". I'm not quite sure where that came from, but he sure put on a show for them. Somewhere in all that, they found a toad. Of course they had to capture it and pet it. Thankfully, they let it go. I am so glad they came by to meet us.

I guess hurricane season is here. We have lots of friends who have been and will be effected by Dennis. Please remember them all in your prayers.

Thank you all for continuing to check on us. I don't know where I would be without all your love and support. You all mean so much to us. Have a wonderful day.

With love from Va,
Carolyn

Today's Fisherism: "I just love the smell of Summer in the morning!"

Wednesday, July 6, 2005 9:21 AM CDT

Happy Wednesday everyone! I hope you all are having a wonderful week. Things here are going so so. We finally got the van fixed. Turns out it was the cooling fan relay that was causing all the problems. So, hopefully, we won’t have anymore problems.

I have a prayer request for you guys. There is a very special couple who is a major source of love and support to many families here on Caringbridge. They are going through a very tough time right now. I ask that you pray for this lovely couple. God knows who they are without me naming them outright. I can’t say enough about what this couple means to me. Thank you for praying for them.

Fisher has a nasty cold, which he so kindly shared with his mom. Wasn’t that sweet? He is still having headaches, but, now I wonder if they are from the cold or something else. I am trying to remain calm and wait till his next MRI. Speaking of the MRI, it has been changed yet again. Now it is August 13th. This time I’m glad because it had been rescheduled to be on his birthday. So, August 13th it is. Please pray that these headaches and the neck pain are not attributed to his tumors. He also has his two upper front teeth trying to come in before the baby teeth are gone. Bless his heart; he can hardly eat his #7 combos from McDonalds. But he sure gives it a big try.

Please remember the Birthday project we are working on. Fisher is really going to love it.

That’s it for today, thank you for checking on us. We love you all.

With Love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Wednesday, June 29, 2005 9:52 AM CDT

Hello everyone. I hope you are all having a great day. Today it’s rainy and gloomy, which pretty much fits my mood. Our stupid van still isn’t working. It is really starting to pluck on my nerves. Robbie is going to try and work on it again when he gets home from work.

Fisher also had a rough night last night. He had a headache and he said his eyes were all “fuzzy”. So, to me, that means he had a headache with blurred vision. He wasn’t throwing up, but his speech was very slurred. Thankfully this morning, he is feeling better and talking better. We have a new date for his MRI because the doctor wants to include the cervical spine. (Fisher has also been complaining about that hurting too.) The thing is, the new date is on his birthday. That was the date his nurse could get, so we have to go with it. Please pray for my little Fishie Bug.

Please remember the “Birthday Card Project”. I think he really is going to be surprised. I know he is going to love it because he will get to “see” all of you. He really loves you all so much.

Well, that is about it for today. Oh yeah, I still have that special unspoken prayer request. Please remember that in your prayers too. Thanks for checking on us. Have a wonderful day!

With Love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

A Message from Fisher: “Hello everyone! Thank you for checking my page. Remember God loves you.”

Tuesday, June 28, 2005 7:08 AM CDT

Good morning everyone! I hope you all are having a wonderful week. It sure has been hot here in Virginia. We finally got some rain, but we still need more. Thankfully, we are supposed to get some more today.

We had a good weekend. Fisher woke us up early Saturday morning, he wanted to go to the ‘best- place -to –eat- French- fries- in- the –whole- world” aka The Silver Diner. He loves to go there and place the jukebox. Later that afternoon, we went to “Cancer Survivor Day” at the hospital. We were able to see a lot of old Friends. It was so wonderful to see them all again. After that, Fisher wanted to go to the park, so to the park we went. He played and played. We stayed there until a gang of teenagers came and started terrorizing the younger kids. I hate it when that happens. So, we left and went home.

On Sunday, we went to visit my sister-in-law and brother-in-law in North Carolina. It is always nice to spend time there. They live in the ‘country” and it is so quiet and peaceful.

So, our weekend was pretty busy. Fun and busy. Then came Monday! Our van “blew’ the thermostat. So, today, Robbie will be fixing that. We were supposed to meet with some of Fisher’s special friends for dinner. He was so disappointed. We assured him that we would reschedule it and soon, so that helped him a little bit. But only a little bit.

Fisher is getting so excited about his birthday. He has no idea the surprises we have in store for him. He says that since he is going to be seven, he is almost a teenager, so he should be allowed to have games that are rated “T”. Nice try Fisher. He comes up with the strangest things. He told us that he really, really, REALLY wants an “Everlast Flashlight”. A flashlight. Only Fisher would ask for a flashlight. So, we will begin our search for one that is available in the stores. (mail order isn’t an option for us) He is just so funny. Please remember the scrapbook project. He is really going to be excited and happy to see all the pictures and cards.

I want to thank everyone who contacted me about my last post. I’m sorry if I worried any of you. The terms of service on Caringbridge won’t allow me to be specific in what is going on. So, all I can say is please remember us in your prayers.

Well, that is it for today. Thanks for checking on us. We love you all. Have a great day!!

With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Today’s Fisher Funny: What do you call a snail on a ship??? A snailor!

Thursday, June 23, 2005 7:11 AM CDT

Good morning everyone! I hope you all are having a wonderful week. The weather here in Virginia has been very nice. We really need some rain though.

Fisher has been complaining more about his back and neck hurting. He told me the other day that his back hurts him all the time. I rarely hear him complaining about being in pain, so when he does, I really get concerned. The doctors still want to wait till his next MRI which is in August. It’s the day before his birthday actually. Which brings me to… Fisher’s Birthday Scrapbook!! I have had several emails asking where to send the cards, what to send, etc. Please send them to Fisher’s PO Box. I am the only one who ever checks that box, so, everything will be a surprise to him. Please, if you would, include a photo of yourself and or family so I can put the cards and photos in a scrapbook for him. I have also been asked what else he would like. Here are some ideas of things he likes: coloring books, math workbooks, books to read (level one). Of course, he loves his games, he has discovered Star Wars and Batman. Basically, anything for a little boy. Please know that I am NOT asking for gifts. Your card and picture is just wonderful to send. I just thought I would post some ideas of things he likes, because I have had some emails asking. Thank you all so much for participating in this. It is going to be a wonderful surprise for him. When ever he has MRI’s day after is usually rough for him, so, the scrapbook will be a wonderful boost.

My family is really going through a difficult time right now. It seems that as soon as we get one thing resolved, something else hits us in the face. There are times when it is almost too much to bear. We keep hanging in there and by the wonderful Grace of God we will make it through. In the Bible God says, “My grace is sufficient to meet your needs”. I am clinging to that Promise. Please pray for my family that we will make it through this difficult time.

Thank you for checking on us. We love you all.
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Thursday, June 16, 2005 6:44 AM CDT

Good morning everyone! Well, he did it!! Fisher graduated kindergarten! I know to some, that isn’t a big deal, but, Fisher has come a long, long way in a short amount of time. I am so proud of him. He also received two awards, one for reading 142 books another for maintaining perfect scores on his Math Benchmark Tests. He is so proud of both achievements. When he was asked if he was happy that school was over, he said, “Well, ACTually, I’m not! I love school! I want to go all the time!!” When he pronounces “actually”, he emphasizes the “act” part.

I have added new photos to the photo page. Last Saturday, we took Fisher to the Virginia Aquarium. They have a summer bird exhibit. In this exhibit, the kids can hold a craft stick that has bird seed on it, and the birds will come and sit on the stick. As you can see in the pictures, it just thrilled Fisher! My favorite picture is the one in the middle where he is nose to nose with a huge sea turtle. I love the photos that show his reflection as well has his cute face. We had a wonderful time. If any of you come to Virginia Beach, you really should visit the aquarium. You won’t be disappointed.

Again, I have to thank you all for all the postcards, cards and packages you have been sending Fisher. You have no idea how much he loves it when he gets mail. So, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Please keep them coming. It really brightens his day. I have started a “Birthday Wishes” Scrapbook for him. I would really love to include birthday cards from all his Caringbridge friends. I would also love to put a picture of each of his friends with the card. If you could please send him a birthday card, and a picture I would appreciate it. (The pictures will NOT be put on the internet. This is just for Fisher.) Thank you all so much for helping me with this. I hope to have many, many cards to put in his book.

That’s it for today. Thank you for checking on us. We love you all!!!
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Today’s “Funny Fishie Story”: Fisher and I are in the elevator at the Hilton to go the pool. (The pool is on the top floor and the button in the elevator is labeled “P”) We stop on the 12th floor and a gentleman gets on. Fisher looks at the man and says, “Are you going to P?”
Have a wonderful happy day!!!

Thursday, June 16, 2005 6:44 AM CDT

Tuesday, June 7, 2005 7:49 AM CDT

***** New Pictures in the Photo Album!! *****

Good Morning everyone!! Sorry it’s been awhile since I have updated. This one is going to be a long one.

The day Fisher had his MRI, he also had a bone age study. We got the results back, and it seems that although Fisher will be seven years old soon, his bones “think” he is only four to five years old. We thought that he may have to go on growth hormones, but his endocrinologist wants to hold off on any type of treatment for now anyway. I am happy about that, because from what I understand the only way to get the growth hormones is through an injection. Thankfully, we won’t be doing that just yet.
Memorial Day Weekend was my 18th wedding anniversary. We had a wonderful time. We took the kids to the Virginia Aquarium. That place is amazing! I will have pictures posted later on this afternoon. Fisher had a wonderful time.
The Tuesday after Memorial Day, Fisher twisted his ankle. Poor little guy had to be splinted, and he had to be carried around for part of the day. That was until his Granny surprised him with a Red Rider Wagon. He loves that thing. So, he was out of school for the week. We still have to watch him, and if he is still having problems we need to have it x-rayed again.
Some of you long time followers of Fisher; remember that he has had problems with his eyes. Well, last Friday, he had an appointment with his eye doctor. His left eye has gotten progressively worse. From what the doctor said its out of focus and “out of line”. So, now our little guy is wearing glasses. He looks so cute. I can’t look at him without saying “awwwww”. In a few months, we are going to need to start patch therapy on him. (that ought to be fun)
I have to say a special thank you to Fisher’s friends at the Virginia Beach Hilton. He was their special guest over the weekend. We had so much fun. Thank you so much for everything!!
I also have to say another special thank you to one of Fisher’s Keith Urban friends, “Aunt Judy”. Not a week goes by that she doesn’t send him several postcards. He really looks forward to his “Happy” Mail. We really appreciate everyone who sends him cards. They really cheer him up.
Even though he is off treatment, we can’t say that he is in remission; we can’t say he is cured. There is no “curing” what he has. Neurofibromatosis is not curable. I can see how it affects my sweet boy. He tries to hide it, but I can see how he feels in his face.
We are hoping to participate in the Rock-n-Roll half marathon Labor Day weekend to raise money for NF research. I will let y’all know the specifics on that. I am also trying to get together some other things to help raise money for NF.
Anyway, back to the happy mail, please keep it coming. Fisher loves it so much.
Well, this is long enough, thank you for checking on us. I hope you all have a fantastic day!! We love you all.
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Thursday, May 26, 2005 10:46 AM CDT

Good morning everyone!! Well, we have a happy boy today! Fisher’s “love” won American Idol. Actually he said that he thinks that Bo is cool, and Carrie is “bootiful”. So, he would have been happy either way. He said that Carrie is just soooo pretty. Plus she sings country and his is my country boy! When the American Idols come here, we are going to try and get Fisher in to see them.

More about our boy. He is doing so so. The headaches are back and he is complaining about not being able to see. We have appointments lined up with the appropriate doctors. I will let everyone know how all that goes.

Now about Fisher’s birthday project.. For those of you who would like to participate, I would like to put together a huge scrapbook with lots and lots of birthday wishes for him. His birthday is August 3rd. This would really make him so happy. He is feeling down because he doesn’t understand why he still feels so badly even though his tumors are stable. To be honest, I really don’t know how to answer him on that. So, maybe this will help cheer him up.

Also, once again this year, I am trying to get him in to meet the Dallas Cowboys. My dear friend Stacy lives in Dallas, and she has been working on this as long as I have. If any of you have any ideas on how to accomplish this, I would greatly appreciate it.

I hope you all have a wonderful day and a happy and safe Memorial Day. If any of you are traveling anywhere, (Katie!!) please be careful!!

Thanks for checking on us. We love you all.
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Wednesday, May 18, 2005 7:50 AM CDT

"And everything I have, and everything I see,
Is just another reminder that God's been good to me" - Keith Urban "God's Been Good to Me"

Last Friday was the Special Olympics. Fisher participated in both the 50 meter relay and in the Softball Throw events. He placed third in the relay and second in the throwing event. When he was running in the relay, I got so choked up. Last year, he was unable to run, he walked really fast. This year, he was able to run. What a difference a year makes!! Of course, the entire event wiped him out so much we were not able to go to Relay for Life. He was asleep for the night before 7:30.
Monday was our visit at the Brain Tumor Clinic. All the doctors there agree that Fisher is doing great. Fisher had to show off to Dr B, that he can now walk on his heels. During treatment, Fisher had experienced some foot drop from the vincristine, and that added to his tripping and falling. Now the foot drop has significantly decreased. The tripping is still there, and so is the choking and gagging. The doctor thinks that is from damage from the tumor in his brainstem. The only other issue is that Fisher is mildly anemic. The next MRI will be in August. If that one goes well, he will graduate to MRI’s every 6 months.
Yesterday we had Fisher’s IEP meeting. In academics, Fisher tests above his current grade level. His strong area is Math. He loves to add and subtract. He is quite good at it too. He also loves to sound out words.
I am just so proud of him. He has worked so hard. It’s almost enough to make me forget that he has brain tumors. But then he will have a choking episode, or stumble and fall, or have a monster headache and I am snapped back to reality.
He has started asking the “why” questions. “Why do I have tumors?” “If God loves me, why did He let me have tumors?” I find it difficult to answer his questions when I have the same questions myself. So, please keep the cards and postcards coming. They really do cheer him up. His birthday is coming up in August. What I would like to do is put together a scrapbook with lots of birthday wishes for him. Also, he has a Smile Quilt that hasn’t had any squares added to it in awhile. If you would like to have the wonderful ladies add a square for you, you can go to http://smilequilt.com/fisher.html and follow the instructions at the bottom of the page.
Thank you for checking on us. We love you all.
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Monday, May 9, 2005 7:28 AM CDT

Good morning everyone! I hope you all had a great weekend!
Well, this morning I got a belated Mother's Day present and it is the best present ever! Fisher's tumors are all STABLE!!!!!! I am so happy! I am praising the Lord! You all know how worried I have been about this MRI. To hear they are all stable was the very best news I could have received today!! Thank you all for your prayers and good wishes!
I have a special project I am thinking of for his birthday, and I will post that soon. I just had to let you all know my wonderful news!
Thank you for checking on us! We love you all!
With love and thankfulness from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Tuesday, April 26, 2005 1:41 PM CDT

Hello everyone! We finally have a date for Fisher's next MRI. It will be on May 6th at 3pm. Fisher won't be able to eat or drink anything after 7am that day, which really stinks. But that was the next available time and we grabbed it. I am going to wake him up at 630 am and let him eat a #7 combo from McDonalds. Today has been a bad day for the "brain cracking". It has happened to him twice today. I can't wait to see what this MRI shows.
Last night, Fisher went to the Make-a-Wish fundraising event at Coldstone Creamery. He had a blast! He sang songs with the employees, he told the customers about his wish to Disney, he even treated them to his verison of "Days Go By". We had so much fun there. It was a successful event for MAW and we are so happy we were able to be a part of it.
Today, we went down to the oceanfront to meet with Fisher's friends at the Va Beach Hilton. We had lunch with Miss Katie and Mr Brandon. Fisher just adores them. I have to say, they are so nice. We had a great time visiting them.
That is about it for today. Yall have a great week. Thanks for checking on us. Please keep those postcards and Happy Mail coming. It really brightens Fisher's day.
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Friday, April 22, 2005 6:07 AM CDT

Hello everyone. Yes, I am finally updating! We still don’t have a date for Fisher’s MRI yet. I called his nurse yesterday, and I missed her return call. I will try and get up with her today. Fisher had an appointment with his neurologist on Monday. The brain cracking remains a mystery to everyone. The headaches are still an issue too. Hopefully, this MRI will give us the answers we need. Another concern that has come up, Fisher’s growth has slowed down. He is rather small for his age. On the day that he has his MRI, he will also have an X-ray of his wrist to determine the “age” of his bones. So, we will see.
On a more positive note, Fisher is has improved dramatically in school. At the beginning of last school year when he was in preschool, he was 5 years old, but he was barely functioning at a 3 year old level. This year, he is 6 years old, and he has caught up with his age, and will be ready for the first grade next year. He is reading basic books, and he is very good in Math. This is such a miracle for him. He is such an amazing little boy. Of course his special education teacher is a wonderful, wonderful teacher. I am going to miss her next year. Fisher loves school so much; he is like a sponge when it comes to learning new things.
The newest addition to our family, Fidget, is doing great. He is so rotten. He follows me around like a little shadow. I haven’t had the chance to take any pictures of him, but I will try and do that this weekend.
Well, that is it for today. Thanks for checking on us. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend. We love you all.

With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Tuesday, April 12, 2005 7:50 AM CDT

Good morning everyone. I hope everyone is having a great week. Things around here are about the same. Fisher is still having some of the brain cracking episodes we have been concerned about. His MRI is the last of this month, or the first of next month. I can’t wait to see what it shows. He is acting a bit lethargic too. Thank goodness he has an appointment with his neurologist next week.
He is doing great in school. He loves to go to the “Learning Centers”. I am amazed at his progress. He can read simple books, he loves to add numbers, and his handwriting is improving everyday. He is still having difficulty staying focused, and on task. But even that is getting better.
Over the weekend, he lost another tooth. That ol’ tooth fairy still didn’t bring him an X-Box. But he still has hope it will happen. (I’m glad “she” can take the heat for not getting him one. He does NOT need an X-box LOL)
Another big event happened over the weekend. We had an addition to our family, a 2 or 3 week old kitten. Saturday, when I went to pick Robbie (my husband) up from work, he was taking a long time coming to the van. When he got there, I found out why. He found an abandoned baby kitten in a pile of scrap metal. So he brought it home. Now we are taking care of it. (That ‘we’ really should be “I” am taking care of it) Anyone who knows me well, knows, that cats really aren’t my “thing”. But this little guy is a cutie, and I couldn’t resist. Fisher named him “Fidget”.
Well that is about it from us. I hope you all have a wonderful day! Thanks for checking on us. The post cards are still coming in, Fisher loves them! So, thank you all for continuing to send them. They really are important to him. It just makes his day to get them.
With Love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Friday, March 25, 2005 2:21 PM CST

***New Photos In the Photo Album***

Good afternoon everyone. I am so glad that today is Friday AND that it is the start of Spring Break. Fisher is glad too. He has determined that his goal for the week is to TOTALLY beat his Spyro game. He has had a tough week I am glad that he will have a week to rest.
Last night, we stayed the night at the Virginia Beach “Ritzy” Hilton. Let me tell you this, we had the best time!! It was so wonderful. From beginning to end, it was wonderful. Fisher walked in and won the hearts of several of the staff members. I really have to thank one in particular, Catering Manager Katie. She made our stay so wonderful. Most of you know that Fisher is allergic to any and all dairy. Katie personally talked to the chef and he made Fisher an enormous bowl of spaghetti (no cheese). Fisher fell head over heels in love. She really “made” our stay.
Okay, our stay from the beginning! When we arrived at the oceanfront, we easily found the Hilton. I have to say that the “strip” has changed quite a bit since we were there last. But, of course A LOT can change in 17 years! Anyway, we drove up to the front of the hotel, we were greeted by the guys doing the valet parking. (Another first for us) Fisher thought it was totally cool that someone else had to go and find a parking spot. When we went to check in, our little “King” Fisher had to do the signing in. That just thrilled him to death. He then spotted the snow cones. He loved the cherry flavored ones. Then he had to get a hug from the CHKD “Cheer Bear”. ( I will have photos posted later tonight) All the while he had to have “Ms Katie” with him. *I* spotted some of my friends from the clinic. It was so nice to see everyone again.
After we visited in the lobby for awhile, we went to our suite. All I can say is WOW. We had view of the ocean that was breathtaking. The room had a widescreen plasma TV in it. The rooms were stunning. Simply stunning.
After we freshened up a bit, we went down to dinner. Dinner was fantastic. Grilled veggies, chicken with ricotta cheese, sweet potato casserole and fresh fruit. After dinner, there was a puppet show, face painting and a bedtime story from King Neptune.
After the nighttime activities were finished, we went back to our room and the beds had been turned down and there was a very special gift waiting for Fisher. A Va Beach Hilton Bathrobe that had “First Guest” monogrammed on it. After a long warm bath, he finally passed out asleep. We had such a wonderful time. We have to send a big thank you out to everyone at the Hilton who made it such a special night.

Other happenings with Fisher have been these terrible ‘brain cracking” episodes. He also has days when he just feels so bad, he can’t get out of bed. Anyone who knows Fisher knows that it is unusual for him to stay still for more than five minutes, let alone an entire day. The choking continues to be a problem too. This next visit to the neurologist (in a few days) and the next MRI can’t come fast enough for me.

Today, when we went to the post office, we were THRILLED to see the box full of happy mail!! Thank you all for still sending smiles to my boys. I can’t really go into the details, but today was a pretty icky day for me, and when I saw all the mail and all the love sent to my boys, it really lifted my spirits. I won’t try to list everyone, because knowing me, I would leave someone out. But to all of you…THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!

That’s about it for now. I hope you all have a wonderfully blessed Easter. I am so thankful that we can have faith in a Risen Savior.
Thank you for checking on us.
We love you all.
With love from Va,

Carolyn and Fisher

Friday, March 18, 2005 1:16 PM CST

Good afternoon everyone! Happy Friday! I am so glad the weekend is here.
As you probably already know, Caringbridge has had to take extreme measures regarding linking pages together. So, all the links that were once on Fisher's page are now gone. I hope that somehow all this can be resoloved because part of what makes Caringbridge so special for us, is the fact that we are all one big family here.
Fisher is having a pretty bad week. He has had headaches nearly everyday, and he is having really bad mood swings. Its hard for me to know if the mood swings are because he is a *bit* spoiled, if it is tumor related, or if it is a combination of those two. I am hoping that we will have a better weekend.
He is looking forward to next Thursday. A local "ritzy" hotel has invited some of the clinic kids to come and be the first guests to stay at their new location. We are both very excited about that. I can use the time away even if it is just for one night.
Well that is about it for now. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.
Thanks for checking on us. We love you all!
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Wednesday, March 16, 2005 11:32 AM CST

Hello everyone! I hope you all are having a happy day! Well, the tooth fairy visited our house last night. NO, she did NOT leave an X-Box. She was very generous and left Fisher $1. He seemed happy enough with that. Believe it or not, Fisher's dad, actually considered trying to get him an X-Box. He changed his mind quickly when I pointed out that this was the FIRST tooth Fisher had lost. What would the TF do with the next one? I knew I could get him to switch over to my point of view.

Fisher had a rough time last night. He had a terrible headache that was making him sick to his stomach. He never actually got "sick" but, it was very obvious that he was very uncomfortable. I, of course, was freaking out on the inside. On the outside however, I remained calm, gave him a Tylenol, he went to sleep. This morning, he woke up and he said he felt better. He hates to miss school, so off he went. I have been sitting by the phone waiting for the nurse to call, but, so far, so good.

Well, that is it for today. Not a whole lot is going on. Please remember all the families dealing with the loss of their precious children. We have had a rough few weeks here on CB. If you get the chance, please go to www.sharethelove.org, and visit a few pages. While you are there, I am sure the families would appreciate it if you left a message in the guestbook.

Thanks and have a great day!
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Tuesday, March 15, 2005 6:33 AM CST

Tuesday March 15, 2005
*********************
Loose tooth update!!! Fisher lost his first tooth at school today! He looks so cute with his little tooth missing. There is another one loose too. He is still convinced the tooth fairy is going to bring him a X-Box. I guess he will find out that the tooth fairy only delivers quarters!
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Good morning everyone! Sorry I haven’t updated in a few days. It’s been hard for me, hearing about all the losses we have had in our Caringbridge family. So, many precious children, it gets a bit hard to handle. I know it is nothing compared to what their families are going through though. Please remember them in prayer.

Fisher is having his good days and his not-so-good days. One of my biggest concerns is this “brain-cracking” he keeps having. We are still trying to make it through to his next MRI. He is still so brave and so strong. He gets tired of the headaches and of the feeling not so great. But, he rarely shows that he is in any discomfort, and he gives me lots of hugs and kisses every day.

Yesterday we got a wonderful surprise! Sweet Angel Cheyenne’s coach (I think that is who it was) sent Fishie the cutest, most cuddly blanket ever. He absolutely loves fleece, and Mickey Mouse, so the blanket was perfect for him. I of course, cried when I saw it because it came “from” Cheyenne. I know I never “met” her but, her bravery and grace in handling inspires me even still today. So, I big THANK YOU to the friends of Cheyenne for the wonderful blanket.

That’s about it for this morning. I really do appreciate you all checking on Fisher. Please continue sending the happy mail, he loves hearing from all of you. Thanks again.
Have a happy day!
With love and prayers from VA,
Carolyn and Fisher

PS. Fisher’s buddy Jessie was recently deployed to Iraq. Please keep him and the rest of our military men and women in your prayers. Thanks.

Friday, March 4, 2005 9:16 AM CST

Good morning everyone!! Happy Friday! I am so happy the weekend is here. It has really been a rough week here. Not a lot I can go into here in a very public forum, but, I am almost at the end of my rope. I am sure any of you who have teenagers can empathize with me. That should tell you all that its not Fisher that made it a rough week. Although, he has had some rough points too this week. Please, if you think about it, say a prayer for my family.

Its funny how when you are the parent of a child who is going through what Fisher is going through, how the little things other parents take for granted can get you so excited. Well, we have TWO such things going on here! First of all, Fisher has made it to a major developmental milestone, he can RUN. Not just walk superfast, he can RUN. Now he is like Forrest Gump where ever he goes.. he is "Runnnning". The next one is Fisher has a loose tooth! He can't wait to have a visit from the tooth fairy. (He thinks the tooth fairy is going to leave him a X-Box. I say yeah, keep thinking that! >g< )

Other things are going on with him too that we never thought would happen. He is learning to read, he can almost tell time (on a normal clock) and he can count to 150. I know most people would be like "So?" But this is a child that we didn't think would even make it to his 5th or 6th birthday, so all of these milestones are so precious to us.

Thank you all for your love and support! We love you all!

With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Friday, February 25, 2005 7:47 AM CST

Update Friday Evening 2-25-05 6:40PM

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Good evening everyone! Thanks to everyone who helped me with the site that had the drawings. I showed the drawings to Josh. His response was “Mom, I’m not that good.” I told him that I still wanted him to do a drawing of Fisher for me for my birthday. He looked through my pictures and picked three different ones, and told me that the one he finally draws will be a surprise. He really is talented and when I get it, I definitely will post it.

Now on to Fisher, he has informed his family that he no longer wants to be called Fisher. He told us, that his name is now “Hammer”. He said he got the idea off of a PBS Kids show, “Arthur”. He is something else, and he always finds a way to crack me up. This evening we were out running our Friday errands, and he told me that they were taking the spring school pictures next week. He asked me if I would make sure his hair is extra “spiky”. Then he said something I was totally unprepared for. His big hope for the week is that he doesn’t get a “zit” before picture day. At 6 and a half he is worried about getting a “zit”. I thought I was going to fall out of the van. I told him that I can pretty much guarantee that he wouldn’t have a zit on picture day.

Anyway, have a great weekend! Thanks for checking on us. Please keep the “happy mail” coming for Fisher. He really looks forward to getting the cards, postcards and letters.

If you get the chance stop by Sharethelove.org, visit a few sites, and sign the guestbooks please. It really does help lift the spirits of the kids and their families.

With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

***************************************
Good morning everyone! Sorry it has taken me so long to update about Fisher, and his gagging, headaches, and the “cracking” issues. I still really don’t have much to say about it. I called his oncologist, he told me to call the neurologist. I have a call in to him, but I still haven’t heard from him. I will probably try again in a bit. The headaches are still there, and the stomach aches are still there. Of course, since its flu season, the first question that comes up is whether or not it’s viral. There are some days when he is fine, but there are other days, when I scared to death that the tumors are growing. I am sure all of you who have been through this know what I am talking about. Right now he is feeling, in his words, “Super-Great!” He just told me to tell all of you, “Hello, I love you all, and thanks for all the cards and post cards!” Thanks for all the emails asking about him. He really does love you all.

I have been surfing through some Caringbridge pages. You know how it is, you visit one page, you see a link to another page, then another and another and so on. Each page touched my heart in a special way. I have sat here and laughed and cried reading these incredible stories. I have been trying to find a certain page I ran across, and I just can not find it again. The page had two of the most beautiful drawings of the boys associated I have ever seen. If any of you know the page I am talking about, please email me the link. I want to show the drawings to my oldest son so he can draw me a picture of Fisher for my birthday. (Josh is an amazing artist) Also, there are some very beautiful pages out there. I am so jealous! I want to learn how to make Fisher’s page more interesting.

Anyway, Fisher is patiently waiting for the announcement of Keith Urban’s concert here. I am beginning to think that he isn’t coming this summer. I sure hope he is because I will have one broken hearted little guy on my hands. Also, I am going to start this one very early, I am trying to get in touch with the Dallas Cowboys so Fisher can meet them. So, if any of you have any connections in the NFL, we can use any help we can get.

Several people have approached me asking me if Fisher has a support bracelet. He doesn’t yet. I don’t even know where to begin to get one made for him. As soon as I figure that out, I will let you guys know.

So that is all that is going on in Fisherdom today. I hope you all have a wonderful day. Thanks for checking on us.
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Saturday, February 19, 2005 11:57 AM CST

Hello everyone. I hope you all are having a wonderful Saturday. We are doing pretty good here. Poor little Fisher just cried and cried when I told him about his Pretty Butterfly Lady. Its hard for him to understand. Then he dicated a letter to her for her guestbook. He said to me, "First my Nanny, then my Papaw, then 'Chey-Chey' now Butterfly Lady. I don't understand. I know they are in Heaven with Jesus though. I know they are happy, but I am still sad."

I am a bit worried about him though. He keeps complaining about headaches, and his "brain cracking". He still is gagging a lot, and I do mean A LOT. Today he was just standing there, and he started to gag like he was going to throw up. We are still watching him closely and on Monday, I am calling his nurse.

Anyway, I will update on Monday or Tuesday, to let everyone know how he is doing. Until then, have a wonderful rest of the weekend. Thanks for checking on us. We love you all.
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Wednesday, February 16, 2005 1:21 PM CST

I am taking time out on today's journal entry to say good-bye to a very special lady. Diane Keel, a friend to many Caringbridge kids went to be with the Lord this morning. Diane was a very special lady and many of the kids in the CB family adored her. Fisher loved her so much. When the day came for him to have his port removed, he insisted on wearing the special T-Shirt Diane sent him. From the first time he saw Diane's web page, with all the pretty butterflies on it, he called her his "Pretty Butterfly Lady". Whenever he sees a butterfly, he thinks of her. Now, she is free from her pain and is in Heaven.
Please remember her family in your prayers. If you get a chance, please go by her web page and offer the family your support. Her page is www.caringbridge.org/ks/dianekeel.

With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Monday, February 7, 2005 5:22 PM CST

Good evening everyone! Well today was “Doctor Day” for Fisher. It started early and ended late in the afternoon.
Our first stop of the day was with Fisher’s neurologist. He examined Fisher from head to toe. He only had a few concerns. First and foremost, Fisher is still very small for his age. He is in the 5le for height and weight. (This is a new one for me because his brothers were always off the charts) He weighed in at 37 lbs and he is 3 feet 7 inches. Another concern he had was that Fisher’s neck muscles aren’t strong. Other than that, he was amazed at Fisher’s progress! Also, concerning the headaches and the “cracking”. I have to keep a calendar and a journal as to when they happen and how often. Then we will go from there. So, unless something comes up, we don’t see him again for another 3 months. Oh, and he went over the MRI report with me. As, I suspected, everything is stable!

After the neurologist, we had Brain Tumor Clinic. When we parked the van and got out, we were surprised to see some old friends walking by! Brandon and his Mom. (Brandon’s link is above) It was so great to see them. It had been a long time since we had clinic together.

We went to triage, and Fisher was weighed and measured again. He was happy that he didn’t have to get his blood drawn. (They did that at the time of his MRI while he was asleep!) The first doctor to come in was the endocrinologist. She was happy because Fisher had gained a pound since November, and had grown a ¼ of an inch. Also, all his blood levels came back well within the normal ranges. Including his calcium. Hooray!!

Our next visitor was a surprise visitor for Fisher. I covered his eyes, and when I removed my hands, who was standing in front of him? MR. BRYAN!! Fisher just hugged and hugged him. Fisher was so happy to see his buddy. Anyone who had clinic on Monday with us, knows just how important Mr. Bryan is to Fisher. Well, to all the kids really, but, Fisher really connected with him from day one. In between hugs, Fisher told Bryan all about Disney and about school. Then it was doctor time again…

Our next doctor was the neurosurgeon, she is new to our clinic, and she was wonderful. It sort of threw a wrench in Fisher’s day because she was someone new. But, as the visit went on, everything was fine.

Next, was Fisher’s oncologist. I have to say; today was probably one of the better visits. I felt like all my concerns were addressed. He too is a bit puzzled by the headaches and the “cracking”. Since Fisher is getting scanned so often, if anything is going on, we will be able to catch it. I know what to look for, when to call, etc.

For those of you who do not go to CHKD, I really hope that you all have as wonderful of a social worker as we have. She has become a friend to me and know for certain, I would not make it through this with out her.

Last but not least was the educational liaison. I have absolutely no concerns about Fisher’s school or his teachers. They are all wonderful, caring educators. So then we were off to do some visiting of our own!

We went to the clinic and we were able to see more of our friends. It was so wonderful to see them all. You guys know how much we love you all. You are all the best!
So, the news for today was that the tumors are stable and we will be keeping notice of these headaches.

Finally, I don’t know how many of you know this, but, as of January 31, 2005, Fisher has been off chemotherapy for ONE YEAR!!

Thanks for checking on us! We love you all!
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Friday, February 4, 2005 9:03 AM CST

Good morning everyone! Boy this has been some week. Everyone here has been stricken by the cold/flu bug. Robbie and Fisher have been hit worse with it. Both have been out of work and school all week. Slowly we are all getting better. But, it has been a slow go of it. Fisher has been in bed nearly all week snuggled up with his stuffed monkeys.
Fisher has an entire day of appointments on Monday. His neurologist in the morning, and then Brain Tumor Clinic in the afternoon. His headaches and the brain "cracking" continue to be an issue. Hopefully, we can learn about it then.
I have some extremly good news about our friend Emily! She has reached her goal!! We are so happy for Emily and her family. Please continue to pray for them all.
That's about it for today. Thanks for checking on us. We love you all!!
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Sunday, January 30, 2005 6:48 PM CST

Hello again! Okay, final chapter of the Disney saga! (If you have missed any, please check the journal history.) After Fisher and Michael chased the birds off, and played a little, we decided it was time to make our way back to the entrance of the park. My friend’s son, Geordan, wanted to ride Splash Mountain at least once before we left, so, they went to stand in line, while Fisher devoured yet another extra large pack of fries. Poor Geordan had to stand in line for what seemed like forever. But, when it was all said and done, he had a fabulous time. On the way out of the park, he surprised all of us by presenting Robbie with a gift. Geordan really is a great kid, and I am so glad we were able to spend time with both he and his mom. Fisher was very happy about the day, and the trip, but by the end of the day at Magic Kingdom, he was ready to go home and see his “Brudders”. So, we all went back to the hotel, spent a few more moments, together, then Joanie and Geordan started on their trip back home and we got everything packed to leave for home.

***Florida to Virginia in One Day***
When we got our wake up call at 2 am, I was about ready to scream my head off. But, I got up and got dressed, and off we went. Getting up that early was a great idea. There was little to no traffic on I 95. The cars that were traveling,, must have thought that “95” meant the speed limit, because I was going 75 and they were all flying by me. We made terrific timing until we hit North Carolina. The closer we got to the Virginia State Line, the worse the weather got. We must have seen 30 accidents in a 100 mile spread. I was so thankful for the car we rented. We never slid the first time. Finally, we made it home! I was so happy. I really had a fantastic time, but, I really missed Joshua and Wayne.

**I’d Like to Thank the Academy**

Well, not really the Academy, but, there are some people I really have to thank. I really hope I don’t leave anyone off. If I do, please know it was not intentional.

1) My sister Terrie, who wrote the letter nominating Fisher to be an Disney Kid. Without her, we would not have been able to go. I thank God everyday I have a sister like Terrie. She is absolutely wonderful I love her so much.
2) Our favorite radio station, Eagle 97. This trip was an adventure we will never forget. Yes, Fisher went to Disney on his Make-A-Wish trip and it was great, but he was so sick at the time. This trip, he felt great, and he was able to thoroughly enjoy it. Thank you so much.
3) The Tim Miller Foundation and ICS Systems for sponsoring this wonderful event.
4) To all of our friends who gave Fisher “spending money” thank you. It was nice to be able to allow him to purchase basically whatever he wanted.
5) All the kids and parents who went on the trip. You all are very special to us.
6) Joanie Marie, thank you so much for driving all the way to Orlando to see us. You are such a sweetie. We are so blessed to have you in our lives.
7) Geordan, Robbie loves the mug you gave him and he sends his thanks too.

That pretty much ends our story about Disney. Now we are home and back to the reality of life. Now, Fisher and I are sick with nasty colds. He has me so worried because he keeps complaining of headaches. He is also telling me that it feels like his brain is “cracking”. Apparently, this “cracking’ is happening more and more. So first thing in the morning, I am calling his neurologist. Yesterday when it happened, he cried for a few minutes afterward. So, the DR is getting a AM call from me. As soon as I hear something, I will let you all know.
Well, that is about it for tonight. I hope you all have a wonderful week. Thanks for checking on us. We love you all very much. If you get the chance, please go by and visit Emily’s page at www.4emilyh.org . She is the little girl in need of a double lung transplant and she is $17,000 away from her goal.
Have a great week.
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Wednesday, January 26, 2005 7:54 AM CST

Good morning everyone! I guess I should finish Fisher’s Disney Adventure now! (If you missed the first half, please check the journal history.)

**Fisher and MGM Studios**
After the live broadcast, we all decided to stay at MGM Studios. Robbie just had to get on the Star Wars ride. He said it was a blast! While he was fighting Darth Vader and the Dark Side, Fisher and I met with Tigger. I don’t know which one had more fun, Dad or Fisher. One of our special memories from Fisher’s Make a Wish trip, a year and a half ago, was the Indiana Jones Show. At that time, we were treated to VIP seats, and a special Meet and Greet with Indy’s stunt double, Jim Sheers. During the meet and greet, Mr. Sheers gave Fisher a very special gift, his Indy hat. The MaW trip was very different for Fisher in that, he was right in the middle of his chemotherapy, and he really didn’t feel all that great. For this trip however, he felt terrific! We just had to stop by and see if Mr. Sheers was still there, so he could see how wonderful Fisher is doing now. Well, not only was he there, but the two ushers, who arranged the first MandG were there. They were thrilled to see Fisher, and yes, after all this time they still remembered him. George and Millie remember Fisher with no hair, this time, he has a full head of very thick hair. When they called Mr. Sheers to let him know that Fisher was there to visit him, he also, was thrilled to see Fisher. Unfortunately, Mr. Sheers hurt his hand during the show right before ours, and he didn’t play Indiana Jones. He was in the show in another role though. After the show, he came over and gave Fisher a big hug. He commented on the full head of hair, and when he heard about the tumors being stable, he was very happy about that too. Then, he surprised us again! He took us on a private behind the scenes tour of the Indiana Jones show. It was hard to tell who was happier, Fisher or his Dad!
After Indiana Jones, we then made our way to the Playhouse Disney show. We were able to see all of Fisher’s favorites. Bear in the Big Blue House, Winnie the Pooh and his all time favorite Stanely! He shouted a big hello from the audience to Stanley from his friend Matthew. We walked around a bit more, and of course, Fisher traded pins with anyone who would talk to him. Finally, he was exhausted, so we rode the bus back to the room and then we went and got him his #7 combo from McDonalds. It didn’t take him long after eating, he settled down and went to sleep.

**Fisher’s Final Day At Disney. **

When we first learned of our trip, one of the things that really excited me, was that I would get to see my dear friend, Joanie Marie. Well, on Friday, she and her son, Geordan, came to Orlando to spend the day with us. We all let Fisher pick which park he wanted to go to, and he, of course, picked Magic Kingdom. I think we all rode every ride that Fisher was able to ride. We rode the magic carpets twice, went through the Haunted Manison twice, rode the Buzz Lightyear ride twice and we rode the People Mover thing twice. Robbie and Geordan hit it off, and Joanie and I had a great time just spending time together. While we were there, we met a very special young man, Michael. He is a cancer survivor, and he is just about the sweetest young man we met there. He started talking to Fisher, and before it was over, he bought Fisher a very special toy.
Okay, time is getting away from me! I need to put Fisher on the bus. I will finish up the story, on Friday!
Thanks for checking on us. We love you all! If you get a chance, please visit Emily’s site its www.4emilyh.org. She is only $17,000 away from getting the funds together for her double lung transplant. Please, if you can, drop by and see her!
Thanks again.
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Monday, January 24, 2005 7:02 PM CST

***The Beginning of the Trip***
Hello everyone! Wow, where do I begin? We just got back from our Disney trip. We had an amazing, wonderful magic time. Our trip began on Monday early, early, EARLY. Fisher cannot fly, so we drove to Florida. We pulled out of our driveway at 3 am. Yes, that is 3 o'clock in the MORNING. When we left it was cold, and it was sleeting/snowing. Not great traveling weather at all. (However, we were able to rent the most awesome car ever.) Anyway, around 6 am, we were well into North Carolina, and we just *had to stop at Cracker Barrel. Of course Fisher worked his charm on everyone, and had all the servers, wrapped around his finger. So, breakfast was behind us, and off we went again. We made it to Palm Coast, Fla around 3pm and we decided to get a room. We had a lovely stay there, and by 8 am the next morning, we were off again, headed south to Disney. I don't know how many of you all have to travel the Florida portion of I-95, but you all have my sympathies. That is the most horrid stretch of road known to man. The traffic was awful! We finally arrived in Disney around 10 am. We were able to meet up with the Event Co-Coordinator from Eagle 97. Then we were able to hit the parks.
**Fisher and The Magic Kingdom Pt1**
Fisher wanted to go to Magic Kingdom first. So, we left the resort and we drove to The Magic Kingdom. Which was one of the biggest mistakes of our trip. We learned a lesson, if you stay at one of the resorts, RIDE THE BUS TO THE PARKS. DO NOT DRIVE! If you drive be prepared to walk a hundred miles from the parking lot to the monorail, then another hundred from the monorail to the park. Our quest was simple. Ride the magic carpets, find Aladdin, and watch the fireworks. We were able to ride the carpets, fairly quickly, all FIVE times straight. :) Fisher was also able to meet several characters. He was also able to start a new hobby: Pin Collecting/Trading. Every single Disney Cast member he came across, he had to trade pins with him or her. We went to a couple shows, and rode a few more rides, and then it was time to get settled for the fireworks. Now, we were so tired from traveling all day, and it was very cold but Fisher really, REALLY wanted to see the fireworks. So, there we sat waiting. And waiting. And waiting. Robbie (Fisher's dad) was so tired; he really wanted to go back to the room and go to sleep. Finally, the fireworks started. Fisher was able to see Tinkerbelle fly out of the top of the castle, and we were treated to the most amazing firework show I ever seen. During the course of the show, Fisher leaned over to his Daddy, and said "Daddy, I will remember this for the rest of my life". We both were so choked up we could barely breathe. After our 250 mile hike back to the car, we drove to McDonalds and bought Fisher a #7 Combo (that would be a Chicken McNugget meal to you and me.) We were finally able to get him settled for the night. The only disappointing part of the day for him was, that he was never able to find Aladdin.
***Fisher and the Animal Kingdom***
On day #2, we went to the Animal Kingdom, and yes, we rode the bus. Animal Kingdom was one of Fisher’s favorite parks when we were there for his Make-a-Wish trip. Our day started with a Safari Ride where Fisher was able to help catch the poachers. He saw all sorts of animals. His favorite was the Lions! While we were at AK, we saw the Lion King show, and Fisher’s all time favorite, Tarzan Rocks. The cast members of the Tarzan show treated Fisher like royalty. They seated us in the VIP seating area, and he was even able to trade pins with a reluctant usher. We rode a few more rides, and then we caught the bus to go back to our room. Later that night, Fisher was able to meet his favorite radio personality, Jimmy Ray from Eagle 97. The thought of Fisher being interviewed terrified me. If there is one thing anyone who knows Fisher knows, he is capable of saying anything! He wore his Dallas Cowboy T-shirt his “Aunt” Stacy gave him for Christmas. Of course, Jimmy Ray had to ask him who his favorite team was, and why he liked them. Fisher said, “The Dallas Cowboys, and I like them because my Mom likes them!” He gave a perfect interview, afterward; going to the store in the lobby and buying a Buzz Lightyear Toy rewarded him. He, of course, bought some pins too. Finally, he was ready to settle down for the night. He was very excited because the next morning, was the character breakfast, and his live radio interview!
****Fisher Goes Live!****
Day #3
Day three started very early. We had to be in the lobby with the other Disney kids at 7am.
First we had the breakfast. That was fabulous. I was finally able to meet the other kids. I was especially anxious to meet Emily. Emily is a young lady who has CF. She is in need of a double lung transplant. To have the transplant, she needs to raise $500,000. Right now, they are $17,000 away from the goal. Her webpage is www.4emilyh.org. I know all of Fisher’s friends will go and visit her site. During breakfast, Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and Donald Duck visited the kids. It was wonderful. Finally, it was time for the radio show. Fisher sat in the studio and Jimmy talked to him off and on through out the morning. When it was his turn to actually be interviewed, he told Jimmy that his favorite part was the fireworks. A brief side note here: they always get the kids to pick their favorite song. Naturally, I thought Fisher was going to pick Keith Urban’s “Who Wouldn’t Want to Be Me?” When I asked him about the song he wanted to play he said he wanted to ask for Keith Urban’s “Days Go By”. I asked him why he picked that song. He said, “Who Wouldn’t Want to Be Me?” was my chemotherapy song. Now that I am off and doing good, “Days Go By” is my song. Now, back to the interview… When I told Jimmy that story, he was very moved. You really need to hear the words to each song to understand why. Fisher won over everyone’s heart during the interview. In fact, each child that was interviewed had me in tears. This group of Disney Kids really are phenomenal kids. In the group we had a child with spinal bifida, a child who lost his sister in a terrible car accident, several who have beat different types of cancers, one who had a disorder with her esophagus. There was a child who had brain surgery, and of course there’s Emily. During the interviews, all the parents/grandparents were in tears. When the show was over, the kids sent a big “Seeee Yaaa!” to the people at home and they were off to spend the day at MGM.
This update is probably the longest I have ever written and I am only half way through it!! J
I will give everyone a few days to read over it, and then I will post the rest of the week. Please be sure to go and check on Emily. She is an amazing young lady and an inspiration to any one who meets her.
Thank you all for checking on us. We love you all.
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Friday, January 14, 2005 6:30 PM CST

Okay I know you all have been waiting.. the MRI Scans were.....STABLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Praise the Lord!!!! We are so so thankful!!! Fisher is a tiny bit anemic, but not anything alarming. In fact all of his blood work came back great!! Thank you all so much for your prayers.
We leave for WDW on Monday!! I hope you all have a wonderful weekend and week next week.
We love you all,
Carolyn and Fisher

Friday, January 14, 2005 6:40 AM CST

Good Morning everyone! Hello from a very windy Virginia. Things here have been hectic as usual. Fisher is doing great. He had an MRI on Wednesday, hopefully, I will have the prelim results sometime today. He is looking good, so, I suspect that the results will be good.
We leave for our Disney trip on Monday. We are driving down, so please pray for traveling mercy. I can't wait to get away for some R&R :0).
Thank you to everyone who sent Fisher cards and presents during the hoildays. We are a bit late getting out thank you notes, but, they are coming. We have been going through an ordeal with our plumbing. Believe me, there is never, ever a dull moment here.
Thank you for checking on us, we love you all.
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Thursday, December 23, 2004 8:55 AM CST

Good morning everyone! Sorry it has taken me so long to update. I have had a hard time handling all the CB losses we have had in the past few months. It has been hard for me to even come and check pages, afraid of what I might read. My heart goes out to the parents and the families of these precious children. I can't imagine how they feel. My prayers are with them all.

Fisher is doing pretty good. He is all excited about Santa coming tomorrow. He has been sick for a week now with a nasty cold. Of course the cold brings on nosebleeds. Up until a few days ago, he wouldn't let us spray his nose with saline. Thanks to his buddy, Matthew, now he will let us do it. That part is all but stopped. Now Fisher just has the coughing, sneezing and low grade fever. Thankfully, he has been "dePorted", so the fevers are going to put him in the hospital. We are giving him Trimainic Cough Thin Strips (aka Magic Medicine) and that is helping to keep him comfortable.

Now for some big "thank-you's" (I hope i don't forget anyone). Grandma Joan, thank you so much for your package and all it contained. We are so grateful to have such a special person in our lives. To Ms Kim and Ms Helen, Fisher loves the T-shirt, I can't hardly get it off him long enough to wash it. (He says its cool like Kody) To the Keith Urban fans that send him the coffee cup, thank you so much. We all fight over it. :) "Aunt" Joanie: Fisher is now our official time keeper. Thank you for the gifts and the calendars. Thank you all for the many, many cards and letters.

I truly hope you all have a wonderful Christmas. I am so thankful for that first Christmas, when Jesus, God's Son came to Earth. I am also very thankful for each and everyone of you. Thank you all for your love, prayers and friendship. I pray you all have a loving peaceful Christmas.

With Love from Va,
Carolyn

Thursday, December 2, 2004 6:52 AM CST

Wow! Things just keep getting better and better! This morning, Fisher got a phone call from Eagle 97, a local radio station. It seems my sister, Terrie, wrote in and nominated Fisher to be a Disney Kid. The phone call was to let us know that Fisher has been chosen to go to Disney in January! We are so excited!! Fisher is thrilled!
Thanks to Terrie for being such a loving and caring Aunt. We love you so much!

Thanks for checking on us, y'all have a wonderful day!!
With Love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Tuesday, November 30, 2004 8:28 AM CST

**I didn't want to say anything until it was official, but, Fisher is one of the kids featured in Keith Urban's 2005 Calendar!! We are so thrilled!!**

Good morning everyone. Sorry it has been so long since I updated. I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Ours was fantastic! We have so much to be thankful for. Fisher doesn't need chemo for now, and my mom is 1,000etter. We don't have a date on the new MRI yet. I will post it as soon as I know it.

Thank you checking on us. We love you all.

With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

I have been asked to post a few things that Fisher would like for Christmas. So, here it goes:
Leap Pad Books
Level One Reading Books
Legos
Bionicals
Coloring Books
Games for his PS2, Gameboy Advance or Gamecube
McDonald's Gift Certificates
Walmart Gift Cards
Spiderman stuff

Thank you all for all you do for him. He loves the postcards and cards he gets in his PO Box.

Friday, November 19, 2004 8:19 PM CST

Good evening everyone! Happy Friday! I just thought I'd let you all know that all of Fisher's doctors are in agreement that we WAIT on chemo. In fact, a few have said that chemo is not necessary at this point. It made me so happy to hear that.
They have agreed to scan him next month instead of waiting till January.
Anyway, thank you all so very much for your prayers.
Have a wonderful weekend! We love you all.
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Friday, November 19, 2004 6:33 AM CST

Good morning everyone. Wow you guys have really come through with some great calicum ideas! Thank you all so much.
From what I can gather from the doctors, right now, we are going to wait to see what the next MRI scan shows. That will be done in 6 weeks. I don't know that I am all that happy with that, but, I wouldn't be happy starting chemo again either. In January it will one year that he ended chemo.
I know you all are famillar with my emotions right now. I want something to do be done, and done RIGHT NOW. But, on the other hand, I don't want him to have chemotherapy until it is necessary. But then again, I don't want this tumor to take off and catch us by surprise. I just don't know, what to think, what to do, or how to react.
Thanks for all your emails, and guestbook entries. Thanks for checking on us.
We love you all,
Carolyn and Fisher

Wednesday, November 17, 2004 6:46 AM CST

Good morning everyone. I have another "Fisher story" to tell y'all. Yesterday I went to Fisher's school to tell them about the MRI results. His principal shared this story with me. Fisher was standing in line and he was talking about the "adults". He told the "President of the School" (aka the Principal) that when he grew up, he was going to stay at home just like his momma! She said that you can tell he really loves his momma. :)

The day that Fisher had his MRI, he also had a "DexaScan". A DexaScan measures bone density. From what the doctor told me, a normal bone density is 50%. Fisher's is 4%. A lot of that is because he can not have milk. Some is due to the chemotherapy he had. Nonetheless, we have to figure out ways to get calcuim in him. If any of you have any ideas, I am open for suggestions. He is a very picky eater. He doesn't like to try new foods. I am thinking about making a chart, and putting him on the "reward" system. I don't know.

We still haven't heard about what they course of treatment will be for this new tumor. If they want to wait till his next MRI (January), or if they want to start chemo. I am not all that thrilled with either choice. What I really want is for my baby to be healed and not go through either. Fisher is taking it all in stride, in true "Fisher" fashion. All he cares about is that if chemo is started again, he will see his buddies, Ms. Teresa and Mr. Bryan.

For everyone who still checks on Fisher, thank you so much. If you visit, please sign the guestbook. Fisher loves seeing all the entries. He also likes to see the "hit counter" go up.

Please continue to pray for the parents of all the kids who have gotten their wings. It is still hard to believe that we have lost so many in the past month. I just can't imagine what those parents are going through.

Thanks for checking on us. We love you all.
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Monday, November 15, 2004 2:20 PM CST

Hello everyone! Sorry it has taken me so long to update, but, up until today, there really hasn't been much to post.
First, I have to start out with a "Fisher" story. Friday I had a conference with Fisher's teachers. One of them greeted me with "I have to tell you something your son said the other day." (That statement alone is enough to send terror through me, because you never know what Fisher is going to say next) It seems that the day before election day, Fisher's school had a mock election. One by one, his teacher called the students up, to cast their vote for either Bush or Kerry. When she called Fisher up, he looked at the two pictures, and he said "I don't want to vote for either of them." His teacher said, "That's okay honey a lot of people feel that way. Who do you want to vote for?" Fisher said "Ed" "Ed?", his teacher asked. "Yes Ed. From Ed, Edd and Eddy. Ed loves puppies. It is important for our President to love puppies". Oh man, if only it were so simple.

Today we had our appointment with the Brain Tumor Clinic. Fisher's nurse gave me the report from his latest MRI. I read the words, I love to read. "Brain stem tumor stable". Then I read further. It seems that a tumor in a different location of Fisher's brain grew slightly. The neurosurgen was a bit concerned, but, he said that we should wait till his next MRI in January. He sait the location of this tumor is not in a great place, and they don't like operate there unless they have to. I don't know if the other doctors agree. Fisher hasn't been off chemo for even a year yet. The MRI was 9 months post chemo. I guess now the doctors will talk it over and decide if we start chemo again, or if we just wait. I hate the 'waiting game'.

Please continue to pray for Fisher. Thanks for checking on us. We love you all.
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

PS Please keep the cards, and postcards coming. Fisher loves them. In fact the whole family likes them.

Wednesday, November 3, 2004 6:40 PM CST

Well, I finally have some news about Fisher's MRI. As far as his nurse could tell from the report, the scans were stable. I am so very thankful!! Boy, our Caringbridge Family has had a rough, rough week. We have lost several of our kids to various illnesses. Please keep their families in your prayers.
Please continue to pray for Kody. It seems he is getting better and better each passing day! There are so many kids that need our prayers and our support. Gooch's mom has set up a site called www.sharethelove.org. Please go by and "adopt" one or two of these brave, brave kids. All you wold have to do is stop by the child's page and sign the guestbook. Signing the guestbook is so important. Even if it is just a "hello, I'm praying for you". Those entries mean so much.
Thank you for stopping by and checking on us. We love you all.
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher
PS Please, keep the postcards coming. Fisher just loves seeing all the pretty pictures from the different states and countries.

Saturday, October 30, 2004 10:57 PM CDT

I tried to post this earlier today, but, I guess it didn't go through. Sweet Cheyenne became Heaven's Angel this morning. Heaven's gain, is earth's loss. It is a loss I could feel here in Virginia. Cheyenne was Fisher's special buddy. He called her "Chey-Chey". Right before she got her port, he called her to wish her well.
Cheyenne was a very sweet kind young lady. Even though she was sick, she would take time to send cards, and special gifts to all the little CB Kids. Fisher was the recieptant of such a gift. A small green teddy bear, holding a heart with the words "Jesus Loves Me" on it. Fisher is sleeping with that bear tonight. He loved Cheyenne so much.
As I sat in front of the computer today reading Roy's words about his sweet "Pumpkin". The tears flowed. Fisher asked me why I was crying. When I explained to him about Cheyenne, he looked at me and said, "Don't worry mommmy, she is happy. She is with Jesus."
Yes, Fisher. She is with Jesus.
Please join me in praying for Roy, Donna and their children as they mourn the loss of Sweet, Sweet Chey Chey.

Friday, October 29, 2004 9:58 PM CDT

Hello everyone! Sorry this has taken so long to post. As you all know, today was Fisher's MRI. It was a very long day at the hospital. We had to be in the radiology department at 7 am for his bone density scan. This was one of the coolest things I have ever seen. I was able to see Fisher's entire skeleton. He was very good for the scan, and that part was over very quickly.
Our next stop was to the Day Surgery floor. Now before any of you have a heart attack, he didn't have to have surgery. He had to go there because he needs to be totally sedated to have his MRI. Well, we weren't due to check in until 9 am, and we were there around 745 am. So, Fisher played in the playroom for a bit. But he got bored with that very quickly, so we went to the Hemoc Clinic to visit some old friends. :) Fisher was so excited!! He got to see his two all time favorite clinic workers: Mr. Bryan and Ms. Teresa!! I must admit, it was wonderful to see them again. Okay so that killed about a small amount of time, but we still had lots and lots of time to go until his MRI. After today, I can tell yall this, when they schedule the next one, I am requesting that we be allowed to show up an hour before his scan. Shoot, the kid has had well over 20 of them. I know the drill, he knows the drill so hopefully we can make it a bit easier on all involved.
Anyway, after our visit with Mr B and Ms T, we went back to the Day Surgery waiting room. Fisher saw the cutest little 'baby'. (a little 2 year old) Fisher went up and said, "Hi, my name is Fisher, and I work for babies. I can play with you and make you not be scared." He played and played with this little boy. They played with the push and popper thing, they played cars, but they had the most fun playing basketball. Fisher would had the little boy the ball and cheer him on. Every 'hoop' got a "Well done baby!" and every miss got a "Good try baby". Fisher had all the parents in the room watching him play with this kid. I have to say that I am very proud of him. He is very kind and gentle with the little ones. When the little boy had to go for his procedure, Fisher said to him, "Be brave, I know you can do it!"
Well, then it was time for Fisher to go back for his premeds. The blessed Versed. He met with the sedation doctor, and Fisher let his wishes be known. No masks, no needles, no mind control devices. Mind control devices? Where did that come from? As the Versed took effect more and more, the 'mind control device' became more and more of an issue. All he kept saying was "NO MIND CONTROL!! NO MIND CONTROL!!" The nurses were laughing so hard they were crying. As the day went on, he was the talk of the hospital with his "mind control device". Even as he was waking up from his sedation, he was saying no mask, no mind control. He handled it all pretty good. We won't have the results of the MRI until Monday.
I have some very special emergency prayer requests too please. First of all, please pray for Cheyenne. Her link is at the top of Fisher's page. She is having a lot of problems and she needs the Touch of the Master's Hand.
Secondly, please continue to pray for Kody. There hasn't been an updated post for today. Hopefully he is improving.
Next is a the Grandpa of a dear friend of mine. He is going through the final stages of bladder cancer, and will be getting his angel wings anytime now.
Thank you all for your love, friendship and your prayers. We love you all.
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Wednesday, October 27, 2004 6:19 AM CDT

Good Morning everyone! I hope you all are doing great!

Friday is the day for Fisher's MRI. All I can say is I'm a nervous wreck. There are days I think he is doing great. But then there are days I wonder what is going on with him. Yesterday was one of those days. He complained of a headache all afternoon. He tormented his brothers, he was just out and out mean. So unlike my little 'Bug. I am glad we will have some answers soon.

We had some good news from Flordia last night. Kody is awake, and is talking. I am so thankful! Kody and his family are so important to me personally. Thank you all for your prayers for him.

Well, that is about it for today. I hope you all have a great day. Don't forget about tonight's eclipse. It should be a spectacular sight.

With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

PS Please, please, please keep the postcards coming. Fisher loves to get them and see all the neat pictures. Thanks. C~

Thursday, October 21, 2004 7:05 PM CDT

Hello everyone. Tonight's post is not about Fisher, it is about a very special guy who lives in Flordia. Most of you know him. His name is Kody. He is having a very hard time right now. I am asking all of Fisher's friends to go and sign his guestbook. Also please pray for Kody and his family. This is one of the most amazing families I have ever "met" on Caringbridge. Please pray for them all.

His site is: http://www.caringbridge.org/fl/kodysstory/

Thank you all,
Carolyn

Wednesday, October 13, 2004 2:17 PM CDT

Good afternoon everyone! Happy Wednesday! I have updated my Mom's page. So, be sure to check it out.

Fisher's neurology appointment went good. He says Fisher is doing great. He is mildly concerned about the headaches. He is glad that Fisher's MRI is coming up soon. He is still a little squirt. He is 6 years old and he only weighs 37 pounds and he is 3 feet 7 inches tall. So, he is a small fry. But as his "Aunt" Stacy says, "Good things come in small packages." :-)

That is about it for now. Thank you all for your prayers for Fisher and for my Mom. We love you all so much!
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

PS. I have been asked if Fisher is still collecting postcards. Yes, he is. He loves looking at them. Please keep them coming.

Monday, October 11, 2004 3:34 PM CDT

Okay, my mom now has her own page, and I will update you all on Fisher. Not that there is a lot to say about him. He is still having headaches, and doesn't feel all that great. He has an appointment with his neurologist on Wednesday. He has an MRI set up for the 29th. You all know how nervous I get when they come up. Please pray that everything will be fine.

Well, that is it for now. If any of you get the chance, please visit my mom's page, and say hi.
Thanks for checking on us. We love you all.
With Love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Monday, October 11, 2004 6:39 AM CDT

Good morning everyone. I am sorry I haven't updated over the weekend. As you can imagine, i have been at the hospital. Thanks for all the emails and prayers about my mom. She is still very sick, but she is hanging in there and fighting. She is breathing very hard, and her blood pressure is through the roof. They have her on 4 different pain medications, and three different antibotics. Please continue to pray for her.

Thursday, October 7, 2004 11:22 PM CDT

Hello everyone. The latest on my mom is that she is still with us. Thank goodness, the drugs are working. She is still in very critical condition. She was still too unstable to have surgery today (Thursday) so, they will do it tomorrow (Friday) She did respond to us more today. So that is an encouraging sign. Thank you all again for all your prayers.

Thursday, October 7, 2004 0:13 AM CDT

Well, it is almost as bad as it can get with my mom. She is in very critical condition. It seems the infection at her surgery site, actually goes all the way to her spine and into the surrounding tissues. She is in Septic Shock. Her kidneys have shut down, her lungs are in shock, her blood pressure is dangerously low, and her heart rate is extremely high. Right now, she is on a ventilator, and she has a NG tube. At the last count, she has 6 IVs going.
She make not make it through the night. My sister and I have been with her all day and all night. I live reasonably close to the hospital, so I came home to try and get some sleep. They are going to see if she is stable enough for surgery tomorrow.
I am so heartbroken. I love my mom so much. Please continue to pray for her.
Thank you all for your continued friendship and support.

Wednesday, October 6, 2004 8:52 AM CDT

Good morning everyone. I have a HUGE prayer request. My mom was just taken by ambulance to the hospital. She is having severe chest pains and it looks like she has an infection at the site of her surgery. Please pray for her. Thanks.
With Love from Va,
Carolyn

Monday, October 4, 2004 12:04 AM CDT

Hello everyone and Happy Monday! I hope you all had a great weekend. I have a big prayer request for you all. My mom had back surgery two weeks ago, and she is in terrible pain. Please pray that the pain stops soon.

Fisher is doing pretty good I guess. I am still a bit worried about him and his headaches. I have called the doctor, and they say to just keep an eye on him.

About the ribbons on Fisher's new background. The green ribbon is for NEUROFIBROMATOSIS. The grey ribbon is for BRAIN TUMORS. The yellow one we all know is CHILDHOOD CANCER. These are the three conditions that effect Fisher.

Oh and one other thing, please pray for Kyle. His link is listed above. He loves to have people visit his site and sign his guestbook. :)

Thanks for checking on us. We love you all!
With Love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Tuesday, September 28, 2004 2:05 PM CDT

Good afternoon everyone! I hope you all are doing great. Fisher and I both have bad colds, but other than that,we are doing good.
We had a wonderful time last night watching the Cowboy/Redskin game. Fisher loves the Cowboys. He told me last night, that he wants to be a "kicker" for them. He also wants to wear a jersey with #1 on it. When he saw that there was already a 'player #1', he said that he would have to give up that jersey. Sorry Matt McBrier :). Anyway, Fisher said that he is going to play for the Cowboys and he will be kicking the winning points. Then he said that all the players will carry him around on his shoulders and the crowds will be cheering him. All I could think was "from your lips to God's ears sweetie". It was a great game, and it was fun to watch. So, Steve (Brandon's dad) if you are reading this... "How 'bout them Cowboys!!"

Other things going on with Fisher, he is still complaining about headaches. His appointment with his neurologist can't come soon enough. He has been out of school for two days, and he can't wait to go back and see his friends.

Robbie and I are hanging in there. There's always something that has to be done, needs to be paid, you get the idea. It seems that we just get our nose above water, and something comes along and smacks us right back under. But, we do know that God is good, and it will all work out eventually.

Well, that's about it for now. Please remember all the families in Flordia. Thanks for checking on us. We love you all.

With Love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Friday, September 24, 2004 6:52 AM CDT

Good morning everyone! Happy Friday! Well, it looks like yet another hurricane is threatening the eastern seaboard. Please remember all our friends in Flordia this weekend. From the looks of it, Jeanne is going to be headed our way the first part of next week.
Fisher is doing pretty good. He still is running full throttle. He hits the ground running in the morning and doesn't stop until he falls asleep at night. He is still complaining of headaches, and to me, his speech is a little more slurred and nasal than before. He has an appointment coming up with his neurologist so we will see what is up then.
Please don't forget Fisher's postcard challenge. He loves getting postcards.
Thank you for checking on us. We love you all.
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Monday, September 20, 2004 6:48 AM CDT

Good morning everyone! I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. Ours was good. Rainy and windy, but it was good.
Fisher is doing pretty good. He is still having headaches, they have eased off in frequency, but they are still there a few times a week. The doctors have all been made aware of them and we are in a wait and see mode. If they get worse, we will do his next MRI sooner. As it stands now, it will be late October/early November.
Fisher doesn't miss a beat though. He is always on the go and upbeat. He reminds me of the Energizer Bunny on a sugar rush.
Anyway, that's it from us. Thanks for checking on us. We love you all.
With Love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

PS Today, if you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours! :)

Wednesday, September 15, 2004 7:50 AM CDT

Good morning everyone! I hope you all are having a great week. Things around here are good. Fisher is enjoying school. He loves his teachers. He is having some difficulty with his fine motor skills, and with staying on task. Other than that he is doing fantastic.
I am still quite sore from my surgery. I just know that one day I am going to wake up and feel great. I just hope that it will be soon.
Please remember our friends in the path of Ivan in your prayers. If it hits New Orleans, it could be real bad. Lets face it though, any where this monster hits it will be bad. So, please remember them in your prayers.
Thanks for checking on us. We love you all.
With Love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Friday, September 10, 2004 3:01 PM CDT

Hi gang! Well, we survived the first week of school! Fisher loves his teachers, and he had a great week!
I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.
Please pray for all our friends in Flordia. I feel so bad for them, yet another hurricane is headed their way. Please keep them all in your prayers.
Also big big prayer request, please continue to pray for Sweet Cheyenne. You can click the link above, and get an update on her. Please sign her guestbook and let her and her wonderful family know that you are praying for them.
That's it for today!
Thanks for checking on us!
Have a wonderful weekend! We love you all!
With Love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Wednesday, September 8, 2004 5:18 AM CDT

Good morning everyone! Well, all the boys are back to school!! YAY!!! Surprisingly enough, they are all happy with their classes, and think this year will be a good one.
Please pray that it will be for them. They have been through so much.
Yesterday was strange for me, it was the first time in years, and I do mean YEARS, I had the day to myself. No one is in the hospital, no doctors appointments, nothing. It was strange. What did I do? What would anybody do? I went shopping! Of course it was just 'window' shopping, which I love to do anyway. Then I had lunch with my sister. It was great to have sometime to just relax.
Please remember Cheyenne in your prayers. She is just a sweetie and she is having such a hard time right now.
Thanks for checking on us! We love you all!
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Friday, September 3, 2004 5:31 AM CDT

Good morning everyone! I hope you all are having a nice week. To all our friends in the path of Hurricane Frances, please know we have you in our thougts and in our prayers.

Last night, Fisher and I went to a fundraiser for Make-a-Wish. We had a wonderful time! The kids got to ride in a stretch limo, and when they arrived at the golf course, the volunteers took them out on golf carts. It was so nice to see all the kids have so much fun! While they were out, the parents got to sit, relax and just visit with each other. The highlight of it for me was meeting Mr and Mrs Rudy Bosech. (Rudy was the winner of the first season of Survivor) Mrs Bosech, is a lovely lady. She is just as sweet as she can be. We also met, Joanna Cassidy, Susan Anton, Mark Mosely (a former Redskin player) and Pat Fischer (another former Redskin player). I even stepped out of my "Dallas Cowboy Fan" mode, and took picture of Fisher with the Redskin's Players. :) Fisher on the other hand did not step out of that mode and he told them that they really should play for Dallas. :) He also switched caps with Pat Fischer, so in their picture together, there is *my Fisher with a NFL cap on and there is Pat Fischer with a Cowboy's cap on. It just tickled Pat to death. I must say,the Redskin's players were so nice to Fisher it was a pleasure to have met them. (As most of you know, one of the things Fisher wants to do is meet the Dallas Cowboys, and we keep hitting brick walls on that one)

Anyway, I need to go, Fisher is calling me. Yall have a great day, and I will finish the update later.
He is still having headaches, and he is complaining that it hurts him to sit for a long period of time. I am calling his neurologist later on today.

Thanks for checking on us! More of an update and pictures in Part 2.
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Part 2********************
Okay, Im back again. More about last night. In my rush, I forgot to mention that we were able to spend some time with Lindsey and her family too. I really, really enjoyed seeing them again. They are a precious, precious family. Seeing them last night really made me miss seeing them on a weekly basis.
Also, meeting some new kids and their parents, was a blessing too.
I am adding some pictures to the photo album. I hope you all get a chance to check them out!
Thanks again for checking on us.
We love you all
Carolyn and Fisher

Wednesday, September 1, 2004 6:39 AM CDT

Good morning everyone! Happy Wednesday! I hope you all are having a wonderful week so far.
Last night, was a very rough night for Fisher. For the first time in a long, long time, he complained about having a headache. Now, Fisher rarely complains, so I know it must have really been hurting him to say something about it. He finally fell asleep around 11:30, and around 1 am, he woke up complaining about it again. Now, I am trying not to panic. But,it is hard. I will see how he is doing today, and if he is still complaining, I will call his doctor. Right now, he is sleeping, but, he tossed and turned all night long. Please keep our FishieBug in your prayers.
Thanks for checking on us. We love you all!
With Love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Thursday, August 26, 2004 8:41 AM CDT

Hello everyone. Before I say anything else, I have to say all the kids who do not have ports, and get stuck for IVs day after day, week after week, you all have my utmost admiration. I mean you did before, but, now, WOW! My heart really goes out to you. Before my surgery, I had to get stuck twice before they found one that worked. Even after the surgery, that one blew and I had to be stuck again. Of course that one blew too emptying almost a full bag of IV fluid into my hand. I know I sound like a whiner. I am a whiner. I can admit it. :) That is why all my CB friends are my heroes!! I am home now, still in some pain, but, I am feeling better and better each day. (I am taking tiny baby steps forward)

Fisher is doing great. He missed me terribly while I was gone. (You know I missed him too) He keeps giving me big hugs and kisses :). Robbie and the boys have been wonderful. They watch my every move to make sure I don't do "too much". Robbie has really gone out of his way, to make sure I am comfortable, and that I have not only everything I need, but everything I want too.

Not much else is going on today. Any second now the pain pills will be kicking in, but I wanted to make sure I thanked you all for your love and prayers.

Thanks for checking on us.
With Love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Wednesday, August 18, 2004 6:27 AM CDT

Good morning everyone! The sun is finally shining here in Va! Please continue to pray for all the victims of Hurricane Charley. I was so worried about Fisher's favorite spot in Flordia: Give Kids the World. I called them last night, and they had several trees down, and of course they have no power, but there was no damage to the villias! More importantly, no one was hurt. I am so thankful for that. Fisher was so concerned about Mayor Clayton. The lady who answered the phone assured him that Mayor Clayton is just fine! I think she was a bit shocked that someone called to check on them. Actually, the very first place I thought of when they said Charley was headed to Orlando was GKTW.
Fisher is doing great. He is so tired of his cast. He has an appointment tomorrow. We are hoping that the second cast will not be necessary. He is really doing great though. I keep watching him with a thankful heart. I am so thankful we have all of you praying for him. I know that it is your prayers that are getting us through. :) So thank you so much.
Well, that is it for now. I will update after his appointment tomorrow. Y'all won't hear from me at all this weekend. I am being admitted to the hospital for surgery. Hopefully, I will be able to update on Monday.
Y'all take care, thanks for checking on us. Please remember we love you all very much!
With Love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Monday, August 16, 2004 7:10 PM

Hello everyone! I'm sorry to keep everyone waiting. We were at the brain tumor clinic all day long. The official finding is that the tumors are stable! Everyone commented on how wonderful he looks. I, of course agree!
I am still having an issue with the fact that the tumor is there, they all agree that it is big, but yet we aren't doing anything about it. The doctors tell me that because the NF is a factor, then right now stable is good. I guess that is where you gotta have faith. Don't get me wrong, I am so grateful for stable. God is so good to us.

The best part of the day was when we visited with our friends!! Ms Esther, Ms Jennifer, Ms Sheila, Ms Teresa and of course, MR BRYAN!!! It was so wonderful to see them. I really miss seeing them. Fisher even got to race Mr Bryan ( that was the highlight of the day for Fisher!)

Well, that is about it for now. Thanks for checking on us!
Y'all have a great night, we love you all!!
With Love and a Grateful Heart,
Carolyn and Fisher

Sunday, August 15, 2004 8:43 PM CDT

http://www.geocities.com/oshelrina/photopagefisher.html
Check out Fisher's photo page!

Hello everyone! Well it is still raining here and there is no end in sight. I guess it could be worse, it could be 100 plus degrees outside.
Fisher cold is getting a bit worse, he goes to the doctor tomorrow, and we finally get the offical MRI results. I will try to get the update posted when I get home. Then, on Thursday, he gets his cast off! I am in the process of setting up a separate webpage with pictures of him on it. As soon as I have it ready, I will post the link.
Not much is happening around here, just lots and lots of rain.
Thanks for checking on us. For those of you who were in the path of Charley, we are praying for you all.
With Love From Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Saturday, August 14, 2004 6:25 AM CDT

*** Quick update, we are fine! Its 10:34 pm and we never even lost power! Thanks for all the prayers! ***

Hello everyone. I wanted to update quick because Charley is headed our way. But before I do, we still haven't heard word from Kody and his family. Please pray for them.
Charley is expected to hit here later today. I went yesterday and got most of the supplies we need. I am on my out again to pick up some last minitue things (batteries and ICE,ICE,ICE) I have Fisher's gameboy charged,cards for the older boys and I have my scrapbooking stuff ready. We aren't going to get it as hard as Flordia did (thank the Lord) but, it is supposed to be a strong tropical storm. They are saying "expect power outages". It seems like if someone sneezes too hard, our power goes out, so................ if yall don't hear from us, you know our power went out. If that does happen, I have someone update via the guestbook.
That's it for now, I am going to go and brave phase one of the storm.....WALMART. You guys take care, and I will update as soon as I can.
Thanks for checking on us, we love you all!!
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

PS Please pray for all our Flordia friends.

Friday, August 13, 2004 7:35 AM CDT

Hello everyone! Happy Friday! Fisher and I want to tell all our friends in the path of Hurricane Charlie, that we are praying for you all.
Fishie is doing great. (he has a cold and or allergies though) I found out that our appointment for the Brain Tumor Clinic is actually on Monday instead of on Tuesday. I know, I know, what difference does one day make? This is the day we will get the offical word about his latest MRI, so, one day earlier is great!

That's about it for today. As Fisher's "Pretty Butterfly Lady" says, "Keep moving FOREWARD!"
I hope you all have a great weekend! Thanks for checking on us! We love you all!

With Love From Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Wednesday, August 11, 2004 8:10 PM CDT

Hello everyone! I hope you all are having a great week. Things here are good. Fisher is doing great.
Yesterday we had a wonderful visit with the founders of Children of Promise, Donald and Elizabeth Ricard. It was a blessing to meet with them. Fisher fell in love with them. I so enjoyed meeting them. They are such a beautiful couple. If you get the chance, you should visit their site at http://childrenofpromise.net.
Last night we had our neighborhood cookout. It was part of the area wide, "National Night Out". Ours was a week behind everyone thanks to Mr Alex (the hurricane). Fisher was able to check out a fire engine. I had the chance to meet some of my neighbors. I really have some great neighbors.
Fisher has been extra clingy and sweet these past few days. He really is a sweetheart.
Well that is about it for now. I really appreciate all of you so much. You all have really made a difference in our lives. Thanks for checking on us. We love you all!
With Love From Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Tuesday, August 10, 2004 9:13 AM CDT

Good Morning everyone! All I can say is we have 29 days until school starts, and I for one can not wait! My teenagers are really, really, REALLY getting bored.
Fisher is excited about school! We thought he was going to need glasses, but, thankfully he doesn't need them just yet. The eye doctor did say that he could see the tumors on his optic nerves, but, they weren't impairing his vision yet. Thank the Lord!!
Fisher wants to send a special thank you out to Randee and her family for the awesome package he received yesterday. :)
Also, to Matthew and his Mommy and Daddy, thanks for yesterday :)
I think today is the calm before the storm, because it is pretty quiet here. (well, not counting the occasional bickering from the older two >g<)
So, that will be it for now. Still no official word on Fisher's MRI. We go to the brain tumor clinic next Tuesday, and we will know more then.
Y'all take care and have a beautiful day!
Thanks for checking on us, we love you all.
With Love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Sunday, August 8, 2004 7:06 PM CDT

Hello everyone! Happy Sunday! I hope you all had a fantastic weekend! Our was busy as usual.
Fisher has his 6 year old check up on Friday. We have some issues that need to be addressed but over all, everything was great. He did get one shot, he fussed more before than he did during it. But afterward, he was fine. It was nice to go to the doctor for something other than his tumors :)

Today I haven't felt all that great, but we did manage to have a great day. Fisher and I went to see Shrek 2. Fisher gives it two thumbs up. It really is a good movie. Just a bit of advice though, once the credits roll, be sure to stick around for a few extra mins :)

Well that's it for tonight. Thanks for checking on us, we love you all.
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Fisher wants to send a special thank you to Kyle in NC, he just loved the package you sent!

Thursday, August 5, 2004 12:29 AM CDT

Hello everyone! Well, Fisher's MRI is over. Hopefully we can get some preliminary results tomorrow. He handled the sedation beautifully. I really need some of that Versid stuff for home. :) We arrived at the Day Surgery check in right at 7 am. A few mins later, a young couple came in with a crying baby. Fisher to the rescue! The couple tried and tried to get the baby to stop crying. Fisher walked over introduced himself to the parents, "Hi, I'm David Fisher Clark, and I work for babies to make them feel better". He clapped his hands and sang a song and the baby stopped crying. The couple asked if they could adopt him. >g<
So, after that, to the back we go. Fisher played a bit, and it was clear that he was not going to settle down, so the nurse came in and gave him some Versid. It took about 20 mins to kick in, but when it did, WOW! It kicked in.
I went and grabbed something quick to eat, and then I visited my friend in the Hemoc Clinic. It was so nice to see them.
After about 2 hours, the MRI was finished and they called me back to be with Fisher. He looked so sweet and peaceful sleeping there.
Now we are home, and he is busy playing his games. (Of course) Tomorrow is his kindergarten check up. I will post about that when we get home.
Thanks for checking on us.
Have a wonderful day, we love you all.
With love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Tuesday August 3, 2004 7:46pm

Well today our little Bug turned 6 years old. He woke up in his usual good mood with a "Good morning Mommy". :) He is so sweet. He got lots of cards and postcards from all over. He says thank you to everyone for being so generous to him. :) I sure do appreciate all of you sending him his postcards, birthday cards, gifts, and other special things. You all are truly amazing!

Well, Alex slipped away from our part of the coast. Thank the Lord. They only thing that rascal did was bring us rain, and lots of it. After dealing with his cousin Isabel last year, I am thankful Alex decided to leave us alone.

Thanks for checking on us. Thank you all for your continued prayers, love and support. I really don't know how I would make it without y'all.
With Love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

Friday July 30, 2004
Hello everyone. I hope you are all having a great start to your weekend. This has been a rough week again. On Monday, we were over my sister's house and Fisher was playing with his cousin, and he broke his arm in two places. My little "Bug" has to wear a cast for 8 weeks. So please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.

When we went to the ER, he charmed everyone. He had to introduce himself "Hi, Im David Fisher Clark, and I work for babies to make them feel better" He is so funny.

Please remember Fisher's birthday wish, he wants all his friends to visit 6 Caringbridge pages and sign the guestbooks :) There are two great sites listed below that have links to lots of great kids. :)
Thanks for checking on us. We love you all.
With Love from Va,
Carolyn and Fisher

****************************************
Sunday, July 25, 2004 9:10 PM CDT

Hello everyone! I hope you all have a wonderful weekend. Ours was pretty good. I have a few requests for you all I hope you don't mind. Fisher has a very dear friend, and she is in the hospital with some heart difficulties. Her name is Mrs. Faye and she is a very special person. Please remember her in your prayers. Also, I am sure you all visit Julianna's page. Her dad has a monster link page at the bottom and on it he has lots of our Caringbridge family members listed. Fisher has issued a request, for his birthday, he would like for all his visitors to visit at least six (he will be 6 on his birthday) and leave some words of encouragement in the guestbooks.
I hope y'all don't mind, but I am leaving the picture of Fisher and Keith up for a bit. It really brings a huge smile to my face and it warms my heart. I am currently working on another one of Fisher's Wish List, and that is to meet the Dallas Cowboys. If any of y'all have any suggestions, I am wide open for them.
Also, as much as I hate to ask this, I need some prayer too. I have to have some pretty serious surgery on the 20th and I really could use the prayers.

Now back to why you are here: Fisher!! :0) He is doing good. I guess. There are days when he is just your typical everyday 5 year old who loves torturing his older brothers. Then there are days, when I think I should pick up the phone and call his doctor and demand something be done for him. Thankfully there are too many of *those* days. He has a birthday coming up on August 3rd. He thinks he is getting a X-Box. (He absolutely is NOT) We are trying to get him a Game Cube. That way he can play his Game Boy Advance games on there too. He will get the stand bys too. :) He has a MRI coming up and three doctors appointments. (neurologist, pediatrician and the all important visit with the brain tumor clinic) Hopefully it will all be good.
Anyway, that is it from us. Thanks for checking on us. We love you all.
With love and hugs from VA,
Carolyn and Fisher

PS Julianna's page is: http://www.caringbridge.org/canada/julianna
Fisher also says that Share the Love is a good one too. www.sharethelove.org

Wednesday, July 21, 2004 4:22 PM CDT

Hello everyone :) I just wanted to let you all know that all is well here with us. Please keep all the Caringbridge Family members in your prayers.
We love you all,
Carolyn and Fisher

Thursday, July 15, 2004 5:03 PM CDT

Hello everyone!! I hope everyone is doing great. Things here in Va are okay. Fisher is loving summer school, he has gone everyday this week. He loves school so much. I am getting a bit worried about him. Three times this week he was walking and fell down. Like his legs just stopped moving or something. Also, when he is real tired, his speech is a bit slurred. There other things going on that are a bit concerning, thankfully, he has a MRI coming up in early August.
Please continue to pray for Cheyenne. She is a sweetie, and she is having a tough time with her chemo. She sent Fisher the nicest package the other day. It just amazes me that even though she is sick, she still takes time to think of my little Fisherbug. Please go by her site and say hello :)

Also, please continue to pray for Fisher's "Butterfly Lady".

That is about it for today. Thanks for checking on us.
We love you all!
Carolyn and Fisher

Friday, July 9, 2004 9:22 AM CDT

****** Saturday July 10********
Emergency request!! Diane, Fisher's 'Butterfly Lady', isn't doing very well at all. Please pray for this sweet lady. Her link is right above in the list of Fisher's friends. Thanks y'all!
****************************************

Okay, I am trying this again! :) I have tried to update a million and one times this morning. Last night, was Fisher's Meet and Greet with Keith Urban! As you can see from the picture, he had a blast. Keith is such a nice person.
Our night started with dinner with some members of Keith's fanclub. We had such a wonderful time. It was like getting together with old friends. :) After dinner, we went to the venue to wait for the Meet and Greet. While we were waiting, Fisher picked leaves to present to Keith. Finally it was time to go to the M&G. Of course that was about the time our daily thunderstorm hit too. :) But, the storm didn't last long, and it was time for Fisher to meet his favorite singer!! Fisher presented Keith with his leaves, and Keith acted like it was the best thing he ever received. He asked Fisher if he left any leaves on the tree. :) He came down to Fisher's level and he talked to him for a few mins, and then signed a jean jacket one of the fans made for Fishie. Fisher then hugged him and told him he loved him. It made me so happy to see them together. Of course one of the perks was I got to meet him too :) He asked all about Fisher and the treatments he received. He gave me a hug and wished us well. Then he signed a picture for Fisher (its on the album page). Then that was that. Ten mins of time, and my "Bug's" dream came true.

Now on to some updates on Fisher and his condition. He still is doing great. His platelet study came back normal. So, I guess he is just a kid who gets nosebleeds. Wednesday, he had a swallow study done, and he didn't get the full study because he wouldn't drink much of the liquid. The tech messed up when she said he would have to eat pudding (dairy allergies) Everytime we tried to get him to drink, he thought it was something with milk in it so he refused. The speech therapist said she felt that it was more of a behavior issue than a choking thing. I do not agree at all. Then of course all the way home, he choked on his drink and has been getting choked every day since.
His next MRI is the first week in August.

That's it for today. Please keep the postcards coming. My whole family is getting into it now. The boys love to see where each card comes from.
Please remember Cheyenne in your prayers. She is such a sweetie, and this new protocal she is on is really rough. Her link if listed above. If any of you have time please stop by and say hello.
Thanks for checking on us. Have a wonderful day.
We love you all!
Carolyn and Fisher.

Saturday, July 3, 2004 6:30 AM CDT

Hello Caringbridge family!! Happy 4th of July!! I sure hope you guys have a wonderful July 4th holiday!! As you celebrate, please take a few mintues to pray for our troops who are away from their families.
Now some thank-yous are in order, first to Stacy, Daniel and Matthew thank you. To Loren and Lindsey, Fisher loved your letter. You guys made his day. Sweet Cheyenne, Fisher loved your postcard too! It meant a lot to me for you to take time to send it to him when I know you didn't feel all that great. To all of you who keep sending the postcards..... THANK YOU!! We are up to about 200 of them, Texas is still the leader, Flordia is second and Washington State is third followed closely by Austrailia! Please keep them coming, they really do make Fisher so happy.
Thats it for today. Have a fantastic day!
Thanks for checking on us.
We love you all,
Carolyn and Fisher

PS Fisher wants y'all to know "FIVE MORE DAY'S TILL KEITH URBAN!!"

Wednesday, June 30, 2004 3:06 PM CDT

Well, we are finally home and Fisher is doing pretty good.
We arrived at the hospital around 5:45 am (arghh) and they took us back around 6:30. Fisher was his usual wildman self. That is until they gave him his Versid. Great stuff!! I thought about begging for some :). Once the premeds kicked in, they came and got him and it was all over around 8:15. He had some difficulty waking up and was quite miserable until a visit from a very special person: Mr. Bryan!! I really and truly hope that all of you who visit Fisher's page and aren't a part of our clinic have a Child Life Specialist as wonderful as Mr Bryan. He has the patience of a Saint. Fisher was so miserable and so cranky today. True to form, Mr Bryan stuck by him and helped him through. I don't know if you are reading this Bryan, but, thank you so much.
Once we got home, Fisher got sick from the medicine. Right now, he is fine.
As you can see in the picture, Fisher had to wear the T-shirt the "Butterfly Lady" sent him. Yes, it is on backwards. He wanted to be able to see the race car. So Ms Diane, you were a big part of Fisher's big day.
Thank you all for praying for him. He sends his love to you all.
Thanks for checking on us,
Carolyn and Fisher

PS Fisher is excited because he only has 8 days before he gets to meet Keith Urban!!

Wednesday, June 30, 2004 3:44 AM CDT

Good morning everyone!! Well, today is the day! In a few hours, our FishieBug will be deported! His surgery is at 7:15, so please keep him in your prayers. I will update as soon as I can.
We love you all,
Carolyn and Fisher

Wednesday, June 23, 2004 8:16 PM CDT

Hello everyone! Well one week from today, our FishieBug will be "deported"! He is happy that it is coming out.

My mom's surgery was a success. She is doing great. Thanks for all your prayers.

Please keep Cheyenne in your prayers. She is going through a tough time. If you get the chance, stop by and say hello to her. Her link is at the top of this page. She is a real sweet gal, and her dad is very supportive of all the CB kids.

The official count of Fisher's postcards is now 125. You guys have no idea how much those little cards mean to him. If you can, please keep them coming. (So far he has the most cards from Texas and Flordia is closing in)

Thanks for checking on us. We love you all.
Carolyn and Fisher

Monday, June 21, 2004 5:55 AM CDT

Good morning everyone! Happy Monday to you all! It is a beautiful day here in Va. Low temps, low humidity, both a rarity this time of year.
We had a wonderful weekend. Saturday, we participated in the Wish-a-Fish event. We had so much fun. Even mom caught a few fish. Fisher caught 5 and Josh caught way over 20 of them. Josh is a natural though, he has been fishing since the age of 2.
Just a few things for today. Fisher sees the surgeon today. I am so leary of having the port taken out, because his tumors are still there. (Smaller, but they are still there) But, as his doctor says, if we aren't using it, it needs to come out.
The other thing is, my mom is having surgery today. Please keep her in your prayers.
That is it for today! :-) I hope you all have a wonderful day.
Thanks for checking on, us we love you all.
Carolyn and Fisher

Friday, June 18, 2004 11:05 AM CDT

Hello everyone!! Happy Friday! Everyone here is doing great.
Fisher has had a few days where he was more tired than usual. Today is an active day!! :) Right now he is playing his Spyro game. He is so much fun to watch.
Monday we go to the surgeon to set up Fishers 'De-portation'! He will be so happy to have it out.
I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!!
Thanks for checking on us!
We love you all,
Carolyn and Fisher

PS The postcards are really coming in!! When I update on Monday, I will have the official count. Fisher just loves flipping through the album I have them in. Please keep them coming. :)

Thursday, June 10, 2004 5:07 PM CDT

Hello everyone! Happy Thursday!! As you all can see from the new picture, Fisher graduated Pre-K this week. His IEP meeting was a great success too. I have wonderful news to report about Fisher's older brother Wayne: HE IS A FRESHMAN IN HIGH SCHOOL!!! He made it through the special program he was in. He handed me the letter, saying that he is now a high schooler, and I just cried. We both hugged and cried. (long story short, he took 7th and 8th grade this year) I am so very proud of him. I will really miss his teachers though. They were so wonderful to him.
Also, more good news: Fisher's older brother Josh, passed as well. (Most of you know that was a huge deal around here) I feel as though a huge burden has been lifted off of me. I am so proud of my boys. They have had such a difficult year, and they stuck to it.
Tomorrow is the last day of school, and we are all relieved. Fisher is the only one going to summer school.
Thank you all for your prayers for my kids. I am so blessed to have such wonderful friends as all of you. :)

Postcard update: To date, Fisher has received 75 postcards. He loves looking at them all. Please keep them coming. :)

Thank you for checking on us, we love you all.
Love and many hugs,
Carolyn and Fisher

Today's Fisherism: "God is so good to our family mommy." Yes he is Fisher, yes he is.

Monday, June 7, 2004 9:12 PM CDT

Good evening everyone! Well today's appointment went good. Fisher loved seeing everyone. Much to my relief, Fisher's doctor thinks it is the NF causing his delays and not the tumor. I think all he needs is some PT/OT over the Summer and everything will be fine.

Next Wednesday, he will have more testing to check on these nosebleeds.

So, for now, no news is VERY good news!!

I hope you all have a wonderful week. Thanks for checking on us.

He is really loving all the postcards!! Please keep them coming. He looks at his photo album with them in it all the time.

Love and many hugs to you all,
Carolyn and Fisher

Friday, June 4, 2004 4:49 PM CDT

Hello from a rainy Virginia. I don't mind the rain... we need it so badly. Plus it fits my mood. I received Fisher's IEP today. His speech has improved a great deal. Anyone that has met Fisher knows, he is rarely at a loss for words. The part that was most troubling to me was the area where they covered his gross motor skills. He is only at the 3 year old range. The same with his gross motor object moving skills he is in the 3 year old range. With his fine motor skills he is in the 4 year old range. For those of you who don't know, Fisher will be 6 in August. His communication skills have improved, but he is in the 4 yr 11 month range. So, my concern is that the tumors have done (or are still doing) significant damage. We have an appointment at the hemoc clinic on Monday, and I will be sure to address my concerns with his doctor and the educational specialist. We will also be meeting with the bleeding disorders nurse to see what the deal is with his platelets. Hopefully, I am worrying over nothing. But you never know.

Also, my oldest Josh is having a tough time, so please remember him in your prayers. He went to church on Wednesday night. Not our usual church, but a more.. umm shall we say, progressive church. The main thing is that he liked it there, and they do teach according to our family's fundamental beliefs.

It is crunch time for my middle son. He has taken on the task of completing two grades of school within one year (7th and 8th) It has been a difficult year, and we will know next week if he will be going to high school. One thing is for sure, he has had wonderful teachers probably two of the best in our area. No matter which way it goes, I am really going to miss them.

Well, that is enough for now. Today's site to visit is Kyle's site. Please stop by and say hello :) http://www.caringbridge.org/nc/kyle1989.

Thanks for checking on us. We love you all!
Carolyn and Fisher

Today's Fisherism: All this rain needs to stop.

Wednesday, June 2, 2004 11:54 AM CDT

Good afternoon everyone!! I hope you all are having a great day! The weather here is so beautiful, its warm (not hot), the humidity is low......... ahhhhh we are enjoying it while we can.

It is possible we may have an answer to Fisher's nosebleeds. The clinic ran some blood tests and one of them came back that his platelets aren't functioning properly. Now, I have no idea what that means, or what the treatment (if any) would be. At least I know it wasn't me being a neurotic mom again. :)

Things are moving along nicely with the arrangements with Keith Urban. The only "kink" in the plan is that only one parent can go back with Fisher... You can bet who that will be :) Sorry dad!! :-D

Please remember Fisher's postcard challenge. He is having a ball looking at all of them. I have them in a photo album for him. Thanks to all who have sent him a card!! :)

Today's Caringbridge Site is: www.caringbridge.org/va/brandonh Brandon is a very special guy that we met in the clinic we go to. He and his family have become a part of our family. Please stop by and tell them that Fisher sent you! :)

Thanks for checking on us! We love you all!!
Carolyn and Fisher

Today's Fisherism: Fisher on his brothers getting into trouble: "Mom, sometimes you have to let them get into poop just so they can see just how stinky it is." Out of the mouths of babes :)

Also, it occured to me, that I made this page after Fisher's Wish Trip to Disney, so, over the next few days, I will be posting pictures from our trip a year ago.

Wednesday, May 26, 2004 12:30 AM CDT

Hello everyone! Im sorry that I haven't updated in a few days. We had a good weekend. Hot, but good. We didn't get to meet Trace Adkins, but, it is looking very good that Fisher will be able to meet his favorite Keith. :)

The postcards are starting to come in :). Fisher is having so much fun looking at them all. So, please keep sending them. It really brightens his day!

Today I am asking for all Fisher's friends to visit Heidi's page. She is a beautiful young mom who just found out she has end-stage lung disease. Please stop by and leave her an encouraging note. Her site is: http://www.caringbridge.org/oh/heidi/

Thank you all for the cards, postcards and most of all, thanks for all your prayers. I can feel the love and prayers around me, and it gets me through the day!

Have a great day! We love you all!!
Carolyn and Fisher

Friday, May 21, 2004 4:12 PM CDT

Hello everyone! Welcome to the weekend! Our little Fishie continues to impress us. He had his special education testing today and in several areas where he was developmentally behind, he has caught up!! He is still behind in some areas, but I am so proud of him. We are on the fence as to whether to put him in a mainstream kindergarten next year or to put him in a SpEd Kindergarten. In any case, he has great reason to be proud of himself.

This weekend we are planning to go to our city festival. On Sunday we will be going to a Trace Adkins concert! I hope you all have a wonderful, wonderful weekend.

Please continue to pray for all of our Caringbridge Friends. All of them are so dear to us.

The friend for today to visit is Dianne. Her link is at the top of this page. She is a sweet lady who adores her Caringbridge Kids. She hasn't been feeling too well, so if you all would stop by and say hello, and tell her that Fisher the "Butterfly King" sent ya, I just know it would brighten her day.

Thanks for visiting us, have a wonderful evening.
We love you all!
Carolyn and Fisher

Thursday, May 20, 2004 10:23 AM CDT

Good Morning everyone! Wow! Its Thursday already! The weekend is almost here. I know my kids are happy. :) Thanks to all who sent such supportive emails and those who prayed for Josh. We took him to the doctor, and now hopefully things will go a bit better for him. He seems much more relaxed. So thanks :)

Fisher continues to do great. He is such a joy to have around. He is back to playing his Spyro games and having a ball with it. He took a small break from the games for awhile, but, now he is back at it. The next game he is eyeballing is Shrek 2. We told him he would have to save his allowance for it. (Yes at 5 yrs old he gets an allowance) So before long, he will have that one too.

I have to tell you guys something really cool. Fisher received the nicest gift yesterday. Ms Teresa from PA, sent him a jean jacket with a line from Fisher's favorite song on it. He loves it so much. Honestly, I don't know who spoils him more his dad (ahem, not his mom) or his online friends. :)

Please remember our friends who need prayer: Stacy is waiting for her MRI results, Cheyenne is still in need of prayer and I am sure there are many, many others.

Thank you all for checking on us. Have a wonderful day!
We love you all.
Carolyn and Fisher

Tuesday, May 18, 2004 11:10 AM CDT

Good afternoon everyone! It is another beautiful day here in Va. Fisher just got home from school and we are waiting for BBQ wings to be delivered. This kid could eat his weight in wings I think. But, if its wings he wants, then its wings he gets. He is very picky and if I can get him to eat something, I am one happy momma.

If you all think about it, please say a prayer for my oldest son. He is having a rough time. All the stuff that has been going on with my father-in-law and with Fisher is really starting to get to him. He talked to me about Fisher yesterday. He says he can see signs that Fisher is going back to the way he was prechemo. It made him feel a little better that Fisher has an appointment with his neurologist on the 28th. Lone Star is going to be in concert that day, and I might surprise Josh and take him to the concert. That day is also my 17th anniversary, but, I don't think Robbie has anything planned. Anyway, please say a prayer for Josh. Being 15 is hard enough without all this extra stress. (I also have an appointment for Josh to see his doctor)

My middle son Wayne, the gentle giant, is doing great. We just have 4 weeks before we know if he will make it to high school. This year he took 7th and 8th grade at the same time. He has wonderful, wonderful teachers and they have helped him through it all. Either way it goes, I am so proud of him for trying so hard.

Well that is it from us for today. I hope you all have a great afternoon.
We love you all,
Carolyn and Fisher

Today's Fisherism: "Happiness is: my Spyro game, my chicken wings and my mommy".

Monday, May 17, 2004 9:49 AM CDT

Good morning everyone! It is a beautiful, beautiful day here in Virginia! I hope you all had as wonderful of a weekend as we did. Friday night we went to Relay for Life. The picture above is Fisher clowning around with some of his new friends. :) He is laughing and having a grand ol' time, in the picture. I am taking the picture and I am on the brink of tears. I am so very thankful for the honor of being Fisher's mom. He is the sweetest and one of the bravest kids I have ever met. When they put the survivor sash on him, I was filled with such gratitude that he is a survivor. Then I thought of all the kids we have lost to this terrible illness, and I was so very sad. I just know that but for the grace of God go I. My prayers are with the friends and families.
At the Relay, our little FishieBug was a wildman. I don't know who was more tired, Fisher or myself. All the way home he kept saying "Mommy I am soooo sooooo tired!" But we had a wonderful time. It was so nice to see all of our friends. We were so tired, we ended up sleeping until 11 on Saturday. That is so late for us. We missed going back and walking again Saturday morning.
Then on Sunday, we went over my sister's house and Fisher played in the swimming pool for hours. He had such a wonderful time. Of course he loves his Aunt Terrie and his cousins so much. :) Tiffany and Jodi (his cousins) just cater to him like he is a prince or something and he just eats it up. :0) He does have very loving and caring cousins. I am so proud of them.
Finally, today, he is back at school. Mom can take a break.. after I wash all the clothes, do the dishes, vacuum the house, make the beds, go to the grocery store.......
Break? Who am I kidding? :)
Have a wonderful day. Thanks for checking on us.
We love you all,
Carolyn and Fisher

PS Please remember Fisher's postcard challenge :)

Today's 'Fisherism': "Mom, your hair is getting old again, if you want I will get my brown crayon to help you. " :)

Thursday, May 13, 2004 8:18 AM CDT

Good Morning all :). Thanks to all who listened to my vent yesterday.
One of the things listed on Fisher's 'wish' list is to meet his favorite country music star. Well, I am sure you all know that his favorite is Keith Urban. ( followed by Shania and Toby) Well Keith's official fan club has taken on Fisher as thier special project. I wrote to them to ask if they knew of a way to get Fisher in just to meet him. They are doing everything they can to make it happen. I am so touched by their messages in Fisher's guestbook, the emails I have gotten, and the posts on their webpage. One of the things I have been constantly amazed about, is the kindness and goodness of people. I have seen it more and more since Fisher has been sick. For example, the way you all visit all the kids pages who are sick, and leave them messages. Or the way everyone rallied around Fisher to find him a replacement "Tori". When my friends on AOL heard about Fisher and that he had to start chemotherapy, we had three different groups of people step in and do things just to send some encouragement. (Thanks to July 98 Moms, Extreme Parenting Moms and my trivia friends in the SpkEz) Right after the hurricane, I am sure you all will remember how I was about to snap worrying about the bills and all.. somehow, the right person read about it and told our Social Worker. Our Social Worker put us in touch with the right people to help us. I could just go on and on lisiting all the people who have shown us extraordinary kindness.

To Keith Urban's fan club, Fisher sends out a huge thank you. He says he wishes that he could hug you all. He promises to give Keith an extra big hug from you all should he get to meet him.

Thank you ALL for all the love and support you give us each and everyday. I am so blessed to have you all in my life.
Have a wonderful day!
Love and Hugs,
Carolyn and Fisher

Wednesday, May 12, 2004 2:34 PM CDT

Hello everyone! Sorry it has been so long since I have updated. I have started a million times and I end up stopping. Maddie's passing really took me off guard. I had to take a moment and regroup. She was an amazing young lady and she will be greatly missed.

Fisher's appointment went pretty good with the doctor on Monday. We learned that we are going to start going to the brain tumor clinic instead of the hemoc clinic. It will be a bit different not being with all Fisher's friends, but change is good. His new nurse is a real sweetie. We will miss Teresa terribly though. She has been a rock for me. There have been times I really thought I was going to fall apart, and she helped me hold it together. I don't know if she reads Fisher's page, but if you are reading this Teresa, THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ALL YOU HAVE DONE. WE LOVE YOU! Anyway, back to Fisher's visit. The concenus of everyone there is "Fisher looks GREAT". I, of course agree!
I got the official report of his MRI back and the tumors are stable. (Thank God!) We are still watching him carefully, for any symptoms. I think he is still showing some, but, I guess we need to figure out if they are tumor, tumor damage, NF related, or what. As of now, the plan is to watch the MRIs, and watch him. After hearing about Jakie and then Maddie, I am inclined to beg them to do something to keep the tumors shrinking. When I ask I am told "Oh he has NF, the tumors act differently with NF". Well it still scares me to death. There are some days I get so scared I can hardly breathe. When one of the brain tumor kids earn their Angel wings, it just tears us apart. We know that it is only by God's grace we still have Fisher here. I don't know where I am going with this, but, please say a prayer for the families who have lost their children.
Also please pray for the kids and families still here. I know there are so many just here on Caringbridge that are in big need of prayer.
I must thank you all again for all your prayers and support. We appreciate it so much. Don't forget about Fisher's Postcard Challenge. :)
I am also working on something very HUGE for Fisher. As soon as I know more, I will post about it. But it is HUGE, it is WONDERFUL and it is one of Fisher's wishes.
That is another thing I am trying to do this summer. Fisher has this "list" of things he wants to do. His "Wish List". These are not things he wants but things he wants to do. Some of the wishes have been granted such as: Riding on a firetruck (thanks to Danny and the CFD), going to Disney (a HUGE, HUGE thank you to Make-a-Wish), he met one of the Power Rangers (thanks again Danny). [ side note here, Fisher got to meet the Blue Ranger from the Time Force Rangers.] Another wish was to see the beach he got to do that too. (Thanks to 'Aunt' Donna)
Some of his other wishes are:
For all his friends that are sick, to be well again.
To ride a pony.
To see jet airplanes upclose.
To go to a Dallas Cowboy football game.
To meet his favorite country music singer.
To go to a real baseball game.
To meet Tori. (Blue Ranger from Ninja Storm)
To eat Dominoes BBQ Wings. (this is one he gets almost every other day. The local Dominoes knows us by name.)
These are just a few. I am going to make the best of every single day I have with him and his brothers.
Life is too short not to.
Thanks for reading this far and 'listening' to my ramblings.
You all mean so much to us.
Thanks for checking on us. Have a wonderful evening!
Love and Hugs,
Carolyn and Fisher

***** Just a note to those from our clinic that read this, Teresa IS NOT leaving. Fisher isn't going to be her patient anymore. He will be Amy's. ****

Friday, May 7, 2004 2:35 PM CDT

Good afternoon everyone!! Happy Friday! Today Fisher was in the Special Olympics for his school. He had so much fun!
He placed 4th in kicking the ball and he was second in the 25 meter relay. I had fun watching all the kids.

After the relay race, they gave Fisher is little tag to go and get his 2nd place ribbon. When the lady wasn't watching, he switched it. After he and I had a little chat about being honest, he decided it would be best to take the first place ribbon back and tell the lady what he did. He apologized and asked for a second place ribbon. I am so proud of him for making the choice to give the ribbon back. (I do realize he shouldn't have done it to begin with)

That's it for today. I hope all the moms have a Happy Mother's Day! My sister is taking me to see "Lord of the Dance" I am so excited! I have been wanting to see it for about 6 or 7 years.
So, y'all have a great weekend!
We love you all,
Carolyn and Fisher

Thursday, May 6, 2004 6:04 PM CDT

Good evening everyone! I'm sorry it took so long to update, but, here it is.............Fisher's tumors are STABLE!!!! I am so very thankful. We needed to hear some good news. Thankfully we did. His nurse called me with the preliminary results. I will get the full report on Monday when we meet with Dr. B. Monday can't come soon enough for me because his nosebleeds have started up again. They are pretty bad too. The dr plans on running a test to see if his platelets are functioning correctly. (His counts were perfect on Monday.)

Tomorrow is Special Olympics day. Fisher's events will be running and kicking a ball. He is so excited about it. I will try and post pictures tomorrow.

Fisher is loving getting postcards from everyone. If you get the chance, he would love to hear from you!
Thanks for checking on us!
We love you all,
Carolyn and Fisher

Monday, May 3, 2004 6:12 PM CDT

Good evening everyone! We are finally back from the hospital. Everything went good. We should have the results of the MRI before the end of the week. As soon as I know, I will let you guys know.

Fisher is excited about the postcard project. He looks forward to getting mail in his postbox.

I hope you all have a wonderful night.
Love yall,
Carolyn and Fisher

Monday, May 3, 2004 6:35 AM CDT

Good morning my friends. I hope everyone had a nice weekend. My father-in-law's memorial service was very nice.
Today is Fisher's MRI. I am a nervous wreck. This one is the second one he has had since the end of his protocal. I will post again once we get home. The MRI isn't until 1, but we have to check in to day surgery at 11. It is going to be an all day thing.

I also want to post Fisher's new "project". We are trying to see how many different postcards we can get from different states and countries. Fisher received his first one all the way from Italy. It was from our clinic sweetie, Sarah. Thank you Sarah, it made Fisher's day!

Thank you all for checking on us. We love you all!
Carolyn and Fisher

Wednesday, April 28, 2004 10:22 AM CDT

Hello everyone. Thank you all for all your kind guestbook entries and emails. They really mean a lot to us. We finally told Fisher about his grandpa. He got teary eyed for a few mins, then he asked if he would ever see him again. I told him that he would when we all go to heaven. That made him feel better.

As for Fisher's nosebleeds, well, we are on day 2 with no nosebleeds at all. Thank goodness!! Your prayers are with my Bug, I know it. Thank you all so very much.

We love you all,
Carolyn and Fisher

Sunday, April 25, 2004 1:21 PM CDT

Good afternoon everyone. First of all, I want everyone to know that Fisher is doing okay. Those nosebleeds are really starting to worry me, but, I'm calling the clinic in the morning. Hopefully, they will be able to do the test sometime this week.

Next, it is with great sadness I tell you that 10:20 am, my Father-in-Law passed away. He went the way he wanted to, quietly in his sleep. We are all deeply saddened by this, but, there is peace knowing he is no longer suffering.

Thank you for all your prayers for him.
We love you all,
Carolyn

Saturday, April 24, 2004 11:52 AM CDT

Hello everyone. Happy Saturday to you all! Today is yet another beautiful day in Va!! We had a few rain storms last night, but today, it is beautiful out.

Fisher is doing okay. I am a bit worried about him. He keeps having these terrible nosebleeds. Any where from 3, 4 or 5 a day. We are due back in the clinic in 2 weeks, but I don't that it can wait. I am trying not to be a paranoid, neurotic mom. Its hard but I am trying. This has really got me concerned.

Something else that is 'concerning' me is, Fisher is off chemo for now. His tumors have shrunk, and I am thankful for that. But, they are still there. He really isn't in remission, he is just off chemo. Its hard to explain. To me, he is still showing signs of the tumor. He still gets choked, he stumbles, and here lately he is getting tired quick. He will go to school, come home, play for an hour, then take a 3 or 4 hour nap. Then he will get up, play for about two hours and then sleep all night. Now granted when he is awake, he is going full steam ahead, he is bouncing off the walls. But, when he crashes, he crashes. I truly hope it is my imagination. I am trying so hard not to read into anything. He has an MRI on the 3rd. I pray we get some answers then.

All the cards Fisher gets really makes him so happy. I truly appreciate it. There is a Sunday School class in Pa, that sends Fisher cards they have made. He loves them. Now with everyone's kind indulgence, I want to try something new for him. Whenever we go to Walmart, he loves to look at the postcards. So..... I thought it would be neat to see how many different postcards he can get from different states and countries. If you think of it, and you have time, would you drop a postcard to him? Thanks so much!!
Thank you all for checking on us. We love you all.
Carolyn and Fisher

Tuesday, April 20, 2004 12:58 AM CDT

Hello everyone. Well it is sunny and beautiful here in Virginia. It is so nice to finally have some sunshine. Fisher is still having a few issues, the main one right now is with nosebleeds. He gets a pretty significant nosebleed at least 3 times a week. When we go back to the clinic, they are going to run some tests on him. There are days when he is doing so great, I *almost forget what he has been through. But then, there are days when I wonder what is going on. Hopefully, his next MRI will put my mind at ease. (Well, somewhat anyway.)

That's about it for today. I hope you all watch Maddie tonight on Decorating Cents on HGTV tonight. I know Fisher and I will be watching ;).

Y'all take care. We love you all.
Carolyn and Fisher

Thursday, April 15, 2004 9:38 AM CDT

Good morning everyone. The sun is finally shining here in Chesapeake!! It is chilly, but the sun is shining. Things here are calm. I'm almost afraid its the calm before the storm. Fisher is doing pretty good. He has become very clingy. He will climb up in my lap and cuddle right before his nap. Of course, I am not complaining. I love to cuddle with him. He loves to do the line from Brother Bear where the bears are saying "You're so goregous" then "No, you're goregousERRRRR" He cracks me up.

Fisher got the sweetest package from Cheyenne for Easter. He has carried the little stuffed animal around everywhere. :) So thank you so much Cheyenne.

I hope you all have a great day! Thanks for checking on us.
Love,
Carolyn

Sunday, April 11, 2004 11:36 AM CDT

I was visiting my regular Caringbridge Kids and I learned that we lost sweet little Jakey Bear. I know this is late, but, I have to post something about Jake and his amazing family. Susan was one of the first online supporters we had. She offered us help, guidance and support. My heartbreaks for her and her husband. I would like to thank Susan for sharing Jake with us. My life will never be the same having 'known' him.
This song is for Jake, who doesn't have to imagine what it is like anymore. He is in Heaven with Jesus.

I Can Only Imagine

Can only imagine what it will be like
When I walk by Your side
I can only imagine what my eyes will see
When Your face is before me
I can only imagine
I can only imagine

(Chorus next)
Surrounded by Your glory
What will my heart feel?
Will I dance for You Jesus?
Or in awe of You be still?
Will I stand in Your presence?
Or to my knees will I fall?
Will I sing hallelujah?
Will I be able to speak at all?
I can only imagine
I can only imagine

I can only imagine when that day comes
And I find myself standing in the sun
I can only imagine when all I will do
Is forever, forever worship You
I can only imagine
I can only imagine

(chorus 2x)(ad-lib)

I can only imagine
When all I will do
Is forever, forever worship You
I can only imagine.

********************************************************************************
Happy Easter everyone! Im sorry I haven't updated before now. Things have been so busy around here. I want to thank everyone who sent Fisher replacement Tori's. I am so thankful to have such wonderful friends. Fisher was so surprised that so many of you helped him out.

My father-in-law has taken a turn for the worst. He is now in a nursing home and is on hospice care. It is so sad. My husband and I are heartbroken. Please pray that my father-in-law doesn't suffer.

Now to the topic of Fisher. Hmmm I really don't know what to say. We are trying so hard not to be paranoid, but, to us, he is becoming very symptomatic. We go to the clinic tomorrow for counts and early next month he has a follow up MRI. I am praying so hard that his tumors stay stable.

Thank you again for all your kindness to us. I don't know how I would make it without you all.

Love and prayers,
Carolyn

Monday, March 29, 2004 1:07 PM CST

Good afternoon everyone! Boy it is so cold in Chesapeake today! I can't wait for some consistent warm weather. Yeah, I know, three months from now, I will be saying, "Boy I'd love some cold weather!" But right now it is so cold and dreary out, I can't help but wish for some sunshine.

Like the weather, I am a bit dreary today. Over the weekend, we on Caringbridge, lost yet another child to cancer. Maxie is now an angel :(. I really struggle to understand why all these wonderful kids have to suffer so much. If you get a chance, please go by, and sign his guestbook. As you can imagine, his family is heartbroken. I am sure they could appreciate the words of encouragement.

Fisher is still doing great. I keep watching him like a hawk, wondering if any of those dreaded symptoms will come up. He is tripping and stumbling a lot, and he gets choked on the just about anything. But, these are things that have been on going through all of this. I try not to overreact, but it sure is hard not to.

I need to say some thank yous too. First of all to Fisher's Old Country Buffet Buddy, Chipper, thank you so much for the Tori!! Fisher was so surprised. It was so thoughtful of you and your mommy to get it for him. Secondly to the Third Grade CCD Class at St. Sebastian Church, thank you so much for the cards. Fisher loved them all. They all were so wonderful. Thank you so much.

Another word of news, Fisher's grandpa is coming home today. HOME!! Not a nursing home. Once again he amazed everyone and bounced back. We of course know its because of the prayers you all prayed for him. Thank you so much. Later this afternoon, I will go and get him and bring him home. Thank you again for all your prayers.

Thanks for checking on us. I hope you all have a great afternoon. I sure hope you all are warmer than we are!! :)
We love you all,
Carolyn and Fisher

Tuesday, March 23, 2004 12:01 AM CST

Hello everyone. I just got Fisher's Spring pictures from school. Isn't he so handsome? :)

I have some special prayer requests please.
Maxie is in the hospital and is very sick. Please pray for him.
Savannah is home on hospice and will be earning her wings soon.:(
Jake is very sick.
Lindsey's mom lost her baby, please pray for the entire family.
Fisher's Grandpaw is back in the hospital, and we are being faced with some pretty hard decisions.

I know there are lots more. Please pray that God keep his loving Hand on our Caringbridge family.
Thank you for checking on us.
Have a GREAT day!
Carolyn and Fisher

Wednesday, March 17, 2004 9:14 PM CST

Good Evening everyone! Sorry I am updating so late, but we have had a very busy day!! It started off this morning with our visit to the chemo lab. The visit with Dr B went as well as we thought it would. Fisher's counts are great and he is doing great. While we were there, Fisher got a huge surprise. Sarah, a young lady going through chemo herself, surprised Fisher with not one, but two Tori's! :) He was so excited!! He was very excited to see Sarah for one thing. But to see Sarah, and get Tori?? WOW!! He was in 7th Heaven. Sarah, if you are reading this, he saw the picture I posted, and he said you are beautiful :) I agree whole heartedly. Thank you so much for making today so special for him. (Please thank your mom again too)

After the appointment, I went to see my father in law, and hold on to your hats..... he is coming home tomorrow!! This is a man who last week, we really thought wouldn't be with us much longer. He was so sick. Now he is coming home. God is so good to us. I am just amazed at God's goodness.

I visited for a bit with my father in law, then I was off again. I picked Fisher up and we went to the St Baldwicks Day Celebration. We got there, and not only was Sarah there, but Loren and Lindsey was there. (This was a BIG BIG deal for Fisher) He just had the best time. Then he got to help cut Dr Owen's hair. Fisher loved doing that. It just made me so happy to see Fisher so happy.

I am going to try and get some new pictures on the photo page by tomorrow night.
Thank you for checking on our Fishie Bug.
I am just so overwhelmed by the response concerning Tori. I am so blessed to have such wonderful, thoughtful friends.
Thank you all for making my boy so happy.
We love you all,
Carolyn and Fisher

Tuesday, March 16, 2004 5:39 PM CST

Good evening everyone! Fisher's appointment went great today. I had my days mixed up on the clinic visit though. That is tomorrow. Today Fisher saw his neurologist. He agrees that Fisher is doing great. :)

Fisher's grandpaw is doing a bit better too. He has his NG tube out. He needs to be fed, but it is out and he is talking to us. Tonight was a touching moment for me because he hugged my husband, and said those magic words my husband has been waiting to hear: "I love you". When we left, Grandpaw was sleeping. It was a special moment, and I will never forget it.

Tomorrow is Fisher's appointment with his oncologist. I know it is going to go as smooth as today went.

Thank you for checking on us. We love you all!
Carolyn and Fisher

Monday, March 15, 2004 6:27 AM CST

Good Morning everyone!! First order of business, thanks to all of you looking for Tori. We spent the better part of Sunday afternoon looking for her. I couldn't find her either. The quest is still on.

Also, my father-in-law is still in the hospital, and not expected to make it much longer. :( They had to put a feeding tube in. I can tell you that was one of the most heart wrenching things I have ever witnessed. Please keep him in your prayers. Thank you.

Fisher is doing great. He still worries me because he gets choked on stuff so easily. And he still falls a lot. But, other than that, he is doing great. Actually he is doing better than great. He is like a little whirlwind. I need skates to keep up with him. I am just so thankful he is better now. He has two appointments tomorrow. One with his neurologist, and one at the clinic. I am sure they will both be great. :)

Thank you all for all your prayers, love and support. I don't know where we would be without them.

Monday, March 8, 2004 6:13 AM CST

Good Morning all!! It is such a beautiful day here in Va. We had some horrible storms last night. But as Fisher said this morning when he opened his eyes, "Good morning! It's a beautiful day!!" (He has said this nearly every morning for the past 3 years) Then he sang his Keith Urban song.
:-) He is something else.
I told him about all of you looking for Tori (the blue ranger) for him. He said, "See Mom, I have GREAT friends! Someone will find it for me." He just loves you all so much. I want to say thank you to all of you who are looking. I know it is a small thing, but anyone who has been with him at the chemo clinic knows how important Tori is to him.

Just a small update on Fisher's Grandpaw, he is still very sick. So, please if you think about it, say a prayer for him. Thanks.

Well, that is it from Chesapeake, Va. Have a wonderful day.
As Jimmy Ray says, "Go out and enjoy the day God gave you!"
Love,
Carolyn and Fisher

Thursday, March 4, 2004 3:04 PM CST

Happy Thursday everyone!!! Wow, life without chemo is so nice! Fisher is doing great. Now that he doesn't feel 'sick' all the time, he is really showing his personality. :) I never realized just how sick the chemo made him feel because he hid it so well. Now that he has been off for awhile, he is really showing us that he is your typical 5-year old. We do have a minor crisis going on though. He begged me to get on his webpage and tell everyone. It seems we have lost 'Tori the Blue Ninja Power Ranger'. Not only have we lost her, every store we have checked around is out. (They have phased out the Ninja Storm Power Rangers and now the Dino-Rangers are in) His request is to see if any of you can find her for him. Tori is very special to us because she helped him through most of his chemotherapy visits.
I asked him if he missed going to the clinic. He said he misses his friends, but, he doesn't miss the chemotherapy at all.
We have our next visit to the clinic on the 17th. I am sure that he will get nothing but great news!
Please continue to pray for Fisher's grandpaw. He is still very sick. He is home now, but, he is not doing all that great :(.

Have a wonderful weekend!!
We love you all!!
Carolyn and Fisher

Wednesday, February 25, 2004 8:56 PM CST

Good evening everyone! I am so sorry it has taken me so long today to update. We got back early from Washington, DC, so I had to rush up to the hospital to visit with my father-in-law.

Our day started very early. Like 3 am early. Our appointment was at 11:30 am, so we needed to leave before the crack of dawn. We were about an hour outside of DC when Fisher just had to stop at his favorite 'on-the-road' place to eat: Cracker Barrel. He just loves that place. Anyway, even with stopping, we got the the hospital early. Which was a miracle in and of itself because the traffic in Washington DC is a nightmare. I do mean a NIGHTMARE!!! Well, Dr. Packer was kind enough to take us in early, and he reviewed Fisher's films. He took the one MRI Fisher had right before starting chemo, and then took the one Fishie just had. Then he did the normal neurological exam.
Then he showed us something completely amazing. The tumors in Fisher's brain stem are much smaller! So for now, we feel better about stopping the chemo.
The tumors have done some damage to his brain, but, it is nothing that we can't handle.
I really want to thank all of you for praying so faithfully for my Fishiebug. I also want to thank all the wonderful wonderful doctors and nurses at CHKD. I do know that without them, I would not have my Fisher here today.
But mostly, I want to thank God for His wonderful goodness to us.
Thank you all again.
Have a wonderful night.
We love you all,
Carolyn and Fisher

Tuesday, February 24, 2004 1:30 PM CST

Good afternoon everyone. Well, tomorrow is the day. We go to meet with the Dr in Washington. I am so nervous about it. Please pray that we have a safe trip, and that we get some answers about Fisher's condition. I will be sure to update when we get home.

Thank you for all the get-wells. I am feeling much better. Things happen so fast around here, I really don't have time to stay sick.

I have another special prayer request. Fisher granddad is in the hospital and he is very sick. Please pray that the decisions that are made regarding his care are the right ones.

Thanks for your love, support and prayers.
We love you all,
Carolyn and Fisher

Friday, February 20, 2004 7:18 AM CST

Good morning everyone :)
Well I think we are in for round three of the stomach bug. Fisher has diaherra again this morning. Now all three boys are sick. Josh and Wayne both have severe colds. Just in time for the weekend.
Fisher wants to thank everyone for all the cards that have been sent. He got a special package from NC, so thank you Kylie for the stuff, he loved it.

Anyway, I will update again after we go to the doctor today.

Have a wonderful day!
We love you all!!
Carolyn and Fisher

Wednesday, February 18, 2004 1:42 PM CST

Good afternoon everyone. I really want to apologize for not updating sooner. Fisher seems to be over that stomach bug completely, thank goodness. But, now, I have some sort of bug. Not a stomach one thankfully, but I really don’t feel good at all.

We got some snow here on Monday. So I changed Fisher’s appointment at the clinic. We go on Friday now. We also have an appointment to go to DC to see the doctor there. That is on Wednesday. Hopefully by next Thursday, I will have some sort of an idea what is next for Fisher.

As for Fisher, well, I don’t know what has come over him. He is eating us out of house and home J. The guys at Dominio’s now refer to him as the “Wing King”. For the past few weeks, he has ate a ton of goulash and BBQ wings. I think he is having some sort of connection with all his buddy’s on high levels of steroids or something. The thing is, when he was on Decadron, his appetite went down. We are hopeful that on Friday he will finally weigh more than 36 pounds.

Fisher wants to thank those of you who have sent him cards. He loves going to his post office box and getting cards. Thank you all, you just have no idea how happy it makes him. If you get the chance to drop a card in the mail for him, or any of the Caringbridge kids, please do. It really brightens up their day!

Thanks for checking on us. If I don’t update sooner, I will let y’all know how things go on Friday.

Have a great evening!!!

Carolyn and Fisher

Tuesday, February 10, 2004 3:14 PM CST

Good afternoon everyone. Today went pretty good. Fisher is finally feeling a little better. He still has a nasty cough though. But not anything serious. We still don't know anything about chemotherapy. We are in a holding pattern of sorts. We are still considering talking to the doctors at Duke, but first we are going to consult Fisher's doctor in DC. Even though it seems like a lot of here and there stuff, we should know something by the end of the month.
Fisher's counts were good, but his phosphorus is low. Nurse Kim gave me a sheet of foods that should bring his phosphorus back up. Only there is one problem...most of the foods on there are dairy based. Can't anything with him be simple?? With his dairy allergy, that is all we need. We did get some alternate foods to try too, one of the big things on the list was pasta. One of his favorite foods. Oh and Coke is on there too.
We spent the morning at the clinic, and then he got treated to lunch at Fudruckers. We got home around 1:30 and he fell asleep, and slept until 4:00.
Anyway, that is our day. Not much happening with us. I hope you all have a nice evening.
Fisher wanted me to say hello to all his chemo-pals from the clinic and all his Caringbridge Buddies.
If you get the chance, to night please visit Fisher's cyber-buddy Chance. You will be blessed by the faith, courage and wisdom this amazing young man has. His website is: http://www.caringbridge.org/ga/chance/. (Don't forget to tell him Fisher sent ya when you sign his guestbook)
Have a wonderful evening.
We love you all,
Carolyn and Fisher

Monday, February 9, 2004 6:48 AM CST

Good Morning everyone. Boy it was a long weekend. Fisher still has whatever bug, he had last week. Just when we think he is feeling better, it hits him again. I am so glad he has an appointment at the clinic tomorrow.
Right now, he is sitting on the bed eating a few crackers and watching PBS Kids.
Please pray he gets better soon. We are starting a new project for him. We want to see how many different places he can get either post cards or letters from. If you get the chance, could you please drop him either a card or a letter? He loves getting mail in his Post Office box.
Thank you so much for checking on us :)
Have a wonderful day!
Love,
Carolyn

Thursday, February 5, 2004 2:43 PM CST

Hello everyone. I have tried to update several times, but I keep getting sidetracked. The long and short of it is, Fisher did much better for his second MRI. He has whatever stomach virus it is going around.
We got the preliminary results back, the tumors are unchanged. I know that should read, "The tumors are unchanged!!!" But, I am so dissappointed. While I am grateful they arent bigger, I sure hoped they were smaller. This means there is still no where for the tumors to go if they start growing again.
Any growth whatsoever could be disastrous.
Thanks for checking on us.
Have a great evening.
Carolyn

Tuesday, February 3, 2004 2:08 PM CST

Hello everyone. I thought I would do a quick update, since I know so many of you were waiting on the news of the MRI.
Well, we came in today for a simple MRI. We all know by now that nothing with Fisher is simple. He wasn't feeling all that great this morning when we got here. They decided though, that he was well enough to do the MRI. Well, after three doses of Nubutal, he still woke up after only 30 mins. So, we had to reschedule. Well, while we were waiting for the rescheduling, he got worse, and he now has a fever, and severe diaherra. So, now we are here, getting IV fluids and antibotics. Thankfully his counts are high enough that we can go home.
We will try to do the MRI again tomorrow.
Thanks for checking on him.
Have a great night,
Carolyn

Thursday, January 29, 2004 11:42 AM CST

Hello everyone. Well, Fisher had his bloodwork appointment today, and SURPRISE, SURPRISE, they came back good. I was so relieved! Shocked, but relieved. He sure has been acting like his counts are low. Thankfully, they were up. :)
I did have a chance to talk with his doctor more today about the chemo and stopping it. I expressed my concerns, especially since Fisher still seems to be symptomatic. He said that those symptoms could be part of the damage the tumor has done to his brain. Boy, I didn't like hearing that. I did appreciate him telling me that though. He did explain things a bit better today. I can't say that it made me feel 'better' about things. It did make me feel more informed. I guess.
Fisher's MRI is on Tuesday, and then we go from there.
Thanks for checking on us. If you have time, please sign the guestbook. Fisher loves hearing from all his friends.
Have a great weekend,
Carolyn

*** PS Fisher wants to congratulate his swimming buddy, Jessie, for graduating from Paris Island this week!!
Congratulations Jessie!! We are all very proud of you!!! ***

Monday, January 26, 2004 6:27 AM CST

Good Morning from snowy Chesapeake!! I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. We are doing pretty good. WE HAVE SNOW!! Okay, okay, its only 4 inches. But it is snow nontheless! I love the snow.:) Let me rephrase that, I love *looking at the snow. I hate, hate, hate HATE driving in it. I had to take Robbie to work this morning, and I decided right then and there, I am going to do something, I haven't done in 66 weeks. I am going to reschedule Fisher's clinic appointment today. I hope they can fit him in tomorrow. He needs to have bloodwork done. We gotta make sure they are up so he can be sedated next week for his MRI. But, I'd rather wait till tomorrow to do the counts, than risk getting in an accident today.
The majority of my time this week has been spent visiting the sites Kristie has listed in her 100 page challenge. I have visited each one. Boy,there are some truly amazing kids here on Caringbridge. Now, I am going to make it a point to make it through all the pages on Gooch's Mom's site. The site she has made is called "sharethelove.org".
I am asking each of Fisher's friends to go there and 'adopt' a child or an adult. It will only take a few mins of your time to go to the page and leave a message of encouragement. You will really brighten the day of whoever you choose.
For all of you who regularly visit Fisher's website thank you so much. It reall means a lot to us to have the love and support of our friends. Fisher has a special request... If you come and visit, please sign the guestbook. He loves seeing all the messages.
Thanks for checking on us have a great day!
Love,
Carolyn and Fisher

Monday, January 19, 2004 5:42 PM CST

Good evening everyone. Well, Fisher made it through his last chemotherapy in this protocal. I know I should be happy, but, I feel so nervous about it. Its a strange sort of nervousness. Its like........... ummm I can't describe it. I really feel from the depths of my soul that if we stop, this monster of a tumor will take off again. I don't think that is the neurotic mom in me, it is just a gut feeling I have. I pray that I am wrong. His MRI is scheduled for Feb. 3. So, we will know more after that.
His blood counts were low too. His HGB was 8.9, ANC was 1410 and Platelet count was 310 (platelets are always good, thank the Lord)
Thank you all for your prayers and support. I so appreciate them.
Love,
Carolyn

Monday, January 19, 2004 6:23 AM CST

Well, here we are, January 19, 2004. In a few mins we will leave, and Fisher willhave his last "official" chemotherapy treatment.
Next week he will have a MRI, then we are sending everything off to Duke. His MRI scans, reports everything. Hopefully they will find something new to help him.
His tumor is still there. He is still somewhat symptomatic.
Maybe after today we will have some sort of direction of what is happening next.
Thank you for your prayers and support. I REALLY need them today.

Saturday, January 17, 2004 8:07 AM CST

Okay, I am going to try this again. I have updated four times and none of them have gone through. Fisher is doing fairly good. He keeps running a low grade fever (99.8). So I am hoping that we make it through the weekend without a trip to the ER.

Oppps! Gotta go, he needs me. Have a great weekend!
Love,
Carolyn

Friday, January 16, 2004 10:03 AM CST

~*~ ~*~ The One About the Boss ~*~ ~*~

As you all know, Fisher loves playing his video games. He loves playing Spyro. His favorite Spyro is “Spyro: The Egg Hunt” (In the stores, it is actually Spyro: Year of the Dragon) Life as we know it in our household must come to an absolute halt when Fisher comes up against a ‘boss”. If he gets hit by the boss, the tears flow, the foot stomps, and tempers flare. We have to keep reminding him, that it is just a game. We suggest to him to take a break if necessary. Anything to get him to calm down.

Last night he was busy playing his Spyro game, and he had me playing Donkey Kong on his Gameboy. We were both having fun beating our respective levels. Then came “The Boss”. Effort after effort was made to beat The Boss. Then the tears started. Again, effort after effort was made to win. After what seemed an eternity, I heard a small voice say, “Calm down, Mom, its just a game”. Out of the mouths of babes. :-)

Thanks for checking on us. Have a great day.

PS. Fisher is doing great!

Wednesday, January 14, 2004 7:31 AM CST

~~ ~~ The One About The Toilet Paper ~~ ~~

Wow, with a heading like that you wonder, "What in the world??" In our house, toilet paper serves many purposes. Besides its ummmmm *intended purpose, toilet paper becomes "Frank". Frank is Fisher's imaginary friend. He takes the toilet paper and shapes it in to a "guy". Frank has helped Fisher through many hard times. So, this morning, Fisher wakes up and he has a small nosebleed. I pick up the nearest tissue I could find. Sadly it was Frank. He cried and cried. We got blood on "Frank". The tears were quickly gone when I handed him enough TP to make another Frank.
So goes another day with Fisher :)

Thanks for checking on him, Have a great day!
Carolyn

Tuesday, January 13, 2004 4:47 PM CST

Good Afternoon everyone! We sure did have a beautiful day here in Virginia! Fisher had a wonderful day too. He woke up singing his favorite Keith Urban song, and went to school smiling. He really is an amazing guy. Right now, he is chowing down on some BBQ wings and watching Dragon Tales.

I have to take time out to wish a very special person a Happy Birthday! Princess Lindsey is six years old today. I know a lot of you know her and her family through Caringbridge. But, I have had the pleasure of knowing them through our chemotherapy clinic. She is just as sweet in person as she is on her page. When she is 60 years old, I don't think she will ever know just how special she is to Fisher. (and to me) So, sweet Lindsey, Happy 6th Birthday!! If you get the chance, please visit her page and say Happy Birthday to her.

Thank you for visiting us. Have a wonderful night.
Love and prayers,
Carolyn

Monday, January 12, 2004 7:06 PM CST

Good evening everyone! I guess I should update huh? Well today at chemo, Fisher did great. He didn't want them to access him, but once that part was done, he was fine. He played his games (of course) and he handled his chemo great.
He only had to talk him self out of being sick once. His counts were good too. His HGB was 9.9 so that has me wondering about next week, if it will be even lower. But for now, I counting my blessings that they are good.

I have added a new link to Fisher's page. It is for Casey. Casey is a 16 year old from North Carolina and he has ALL. He is a real sweetie. His site is new, so if you get time, please stop by and say hello.

Fisher also got a real nice surprise today. Ms Sarah brought him in a Va Beach firefighter hat, T-shirt and patch. Sarah, even though he didn't say much, he was THRILLED :). He told everyone at home about it. So, thank you again.

Fisher also wants to thank everyone who has sent him cards, presents, etc. He is so grateful he has so many wonderful friends here on Caringbridge.

Thank you for checking on him. Thank you all for your love, prayers and support.
Love,
Carolyn

Monday, January 5, 2004 6:42 PM CST

Hello everyone! Today's visit to the clinic went quite well. Fisher's counts are good. He did get real sick to his stomach, but again, he was able to talk him self out of getting sick. He is amazing. He just played his game, and was so good.

I was able to have a nice talk with Fisher's care team. I am so thankful they are so easy to talk to. We have a plan in place should Fisher's post chemo scans not show any shrinkage. That really put my mind at ease knowing that I can speak how I feel.

Thanks for checking on Fisher. He loves you all so much.
Have a great evening,
Carolyn

Sunday, January 4, 2004 3:12 PM CST

Today I am really at a loss for words. We have lost two of our Caringbridge Kids in one day. Sweet little Ashley and Brave Brandyn. If that weren't enough, early this morning I am checking on the CB Kids, and I find out that Julianna Banana has relapsed. I laid in bed after that too choked up to even breathe. I hope you all keep these families, all the families on CB in your prayers.

Fisher is doing so so. To me, more and more he is becoming symptomatic. Today, I noticed that his left eye is turning in more. He gets choked on just about anything and everything he eats. I could go on and on. He just seems to be sliding backwards all the sudden. I hope it is my imagination. I pray it is my imagination. It terrifies me to even think about losing him. Right now, he is sitting in his Elmo chair playing his new Spyro game on his PS2. Cheyenne, if you are reading this, and you have Spyro Enter the Dragonfly, Fisher said he could really use some pointers. :)
Anyway, thank you all for all your love and support. I don't know what I would do with out you guys.
If you are from our clinic, and you missed my tribute to our 2003 Angels, you can see in on the journal history page.
I hope you all have a nice evening, and I will update when we get home from chemo tomorrow.
I love you all,
Carolyn

2002: Won 5 Lost 11
2003: Won 10 Lost 6
I still gotta say, "How 'bout them Cowboys!"
Thanks for a great year guys!

Thursday, January 1, 2004 1:36 PM CST

Oh I believe there are angels among us.
Sent down to us from somewhere up above.
They come to you and me in our darkest hours.
To show us how to live, to teach us how to give.
To guide us with a light of love.

I am doing things a bit different today. Since it is the first of the year, I thought I would do a small tribute to the amazing young people from our clinic, who earned their angel wings in 2003. Each one of them were so very special to Fisher and to me.
I am forever changed because I knew them and their loving families.
If you get a moment today, would you please remember these families in your prayers?
Also, if you are from our clinic and you see that I have missed someone, please email me so that I can add them.
Thank you.

Rebecca Guiliani
David Bennett
"Angel" Akaida
Thomas Stokes
Taylor Haddock

Again, if I missed someone, I am truly sorry. Please let me know.
To the families, thank you sharing your children with us. Thank you for showing me the true meaning of strength and thank you for all you continue to do for the kids at the clinic.
May God's Peace be with you.
Love,
Carolyn

Tuesday, December 30, 2003 6:37 PM CST

**I have a quick URGENT prayer request. Little Ashley has taken a bad turn for the worst. Please remember her in your prayers. Her webpage is: caringbridge.org/il/ashley. If you can, please leave a message for her family. Thank you.**

Good evening everyone! Fisher had a really nice time today. We went to see Barney's Colorful World. Thanks to the Believe in Tomorrow Foundation, we were able to meet with Barney before the show, and we had primo seats. Fisher and two of his cousins, Jodi and Tiffany went with us. They are claiming the fifth on if they enjoyed it or not. When I get the pictures up on the album page, you all can be the judge. :)
The new picture on the homepage was taken right before we went in to meet the big purple dino :). Yes, Fisher is in short sleeves, yes it was that warm here today. Oh.. and yes, that is *my Cowboys hat on his head. (My good friend Stacy sent it to me from Dallas, and Fisher grabbed it and claimed it)
Thanks for checking on us.
Have a great night.
Love,
Carolyn

Monday, December 29, 2003 3:59 PM CST

Good evening everyone! Well Fisher had his chemotherapy today. His counts were good, and he handled the chemo fairly well. There were a few times I thought he was going to get sick. But Fisher has this way of "talking" his body out of throwing up. It works most of the time.
For a good part of the day, he was the only patient there. He loved having Mr. Bryan and Miss Sarah all to himself. :)
He really missed his friends too though.
Thanks for checking on him. He loves it when I read all the guestbook entries to him
Have a nice night.
Love,
Carolyn

PS. The two lovely gals in the picture with him are his cousins Tiffany, and Jodi. They just love him and he thinks they hung the moon.

Sunday, December 28, 2003 5:01 PM CST

Good Evening everyone! I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. Our was pretty good. Fisher is feeling somewhat better. He still has the sniffles, and a small low grade fever. Nothing too bad, only 99.0.
He is still playing his PS2 nearly every waking hour. Right now, he is playing it, and laughing and giggling. He is having the time of his life.
Tommorrow is the beginning of his final four weeks of chemotherapy. I am not sure what happens after this, but I am full of questions. Hopefully between now and the end of the four weeks, we will have some answers.
I will update tomorrow after chemotherapy.
Have a great night.
Love,
Carolyn

Thursday, December 25, 2003 3:39 PM CST

Merry Christmas everyone! I pray you all had as wonderful Christmas as we did. Fisher was able to get everything on his list. Even the chicken legs :). He was so happy when he woke up this morning. Santa was so good to him. Of course his favorite thing is his PS2. (Thanks to all the 'elves' who made that one possible). He has had 2 great weeks. So great, it almost seemed as though he was a normal, regular kid.
That was until a little while ago. He is in bed, and not feeling well at all. So, we are snapped back to reality. Hopefully this is a passing thing and he will be back to normal in the morning.
He did have a wonderful week this week. He was finally able to meet his 'bingo buddy', Miss Faye. I don't know who was more thrilled, Faye or Fisher. :)

I also have to add that Fisher opened the presents from his "cyber-family" last night. He loved everything and sends his warm-felt thanks to you all.

I will keep you all updated on how he is doing. I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas weekend.

PS Fisher wanted to wish Jesus and his Daddy a Happy Birthday today!!!

Sunday, December 21, 2003 3:33 AM CST

My goodness, where do I even start?

First, I would like to ask you guys to pray for my Sister-in-law, Ann, her mother passed away on Friday after a long battle with diabeties. Please keep Ann, my brother-in-law Jamie and my niece Synthia in your prayers.

Now...
How do I even begin to thank people who have given us so much? I am going to try, but, please, if I leave anyone or any group out, it is not intentional.
The Virginia Association of the Blind
My fellow trivia addicts in the AOL SpkEz
A Very Special Board player, you know who you are and I so appreciate your generoustiy.
My 'cyber-sisters' on the July 98 moms board.
Kim and her special 'Big Red' Friend :)
My "Extreme" debaters.
Lisa and Melissa
Robin (Fisher loves the suckers)
The Garris's
Stacy and Kathie for listening to me endlessly.
My mom
My sister Terrie
All of you who faithfully check Fisher's site and sign his guestbook (and those who don't)

All the gifts, cards and emails have meant so much to us. I can not even begin to tell you all how much you ALL have touched our hearts. I feel like George Bailey in the movie "Its a Wonderful Life". I feel so rich because I have all of you in my life.
Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for everything.
The prayers, the postings, the encouragement. Thank you so much.
Love,
Carolyn

Monday, December 15, 2003 11:35 AM CST

Good afternoon everyone! I am happy to say that Fisher is finally feeling like his old self again! Just in time to enjoy Christmas. I am so happy!! It has been a long bout with whatever it was that he had. (It wasn't the flu, and we never did find out what it was) But, today, we had a blood count check, and his counts are up to normal ranges! Thank you all for praying for him. The prayers worked wonders. He is even going back to school tomorrow.

I hope you all had as great of a weekend as we did. (Minus the migraine I had)
Take care, and I will update again soon!
Love,
Carolyn

PS........... Just a message from FB (FishieBug):
"How 'bout them Cowboys!!!!"

Thursday, December 11, 2003 6:12 AM CST

Good morning everyone! I hope you are all having a good week. We are doing pretty good. Fisher still isn't up to par. Just when we think he is well enough to go back to school, he gets sick again. Today his fever is up again. Not high enough to call the doctor, but high enough to keep him home. Poor guy. He told me last night that he will be glad when he isn't sick anymore. Me too buddy, me too.

He is getting so excited about Christmas. Every time he sees a tree with presents, he wants to know if he can open one. He is so funny. Monday when we were at the clinic, he dictated his Christmas list for Santa. Here it is:
1) Chicken McNuggets
2) Fried Chicken Legs
3) Peanut Butter
4) Bubble Gum
5) A Playstation 2
6) Playstation Games

I guess Santa better stop by the drive-thru at McDonalds on his way to our house.

I hope you all have a fantastic day.
Love,
Carolyn

Monday, December 8, 2003 9:37 PM CST

I had to come back this evening, we just got back from a wonderful party sponsored by the Virginia Association of the Blind. It was held at the Founder's Inn on the grounds of CBN. They invited our family and Brandon's family. We had a a wonderful meal, heard beautiful music, and they had lots of very nice gifts for both families. It was so unexpected and very much appreciated. Our two families just meshed with each other from the very beginning. I feel so blessed to have them as my friends. (Brandon's family) Even though Steve likes to rag on me about my team, I just love them to death :).
I really want to thank the entire Va. Association of the Blind for all they did for us tonight. It was just amazing.

Monday, December 8, 2003 2:18 PM CST

Hello everyone! Well today went very well at the clinic. Fisher's counts are finally back up in normal ranges. Once again, Fisher sat and played his Playstation games.
I am glad to say, that is it. No big update today. Which to me, is the BIGGEST update of them all :)
Thanks for checking on him.
Love,
Carolyn

Friday, December 5, 2003 1:18 PM CST

Well, we are home, and Fisher is doing much better. His hgb is at 10.7. His ANC is still low, but better at 750 and his platlets are back up in the 300 range.
We had some issues about him not urinating. So, we did another test on it. His ketones are slightly elevated, but, that is it.
Right now, he is asleep.
Thanks for checking on him.
Have a great day,
Carolyn

Friday, December 5, 2003 6:18 AM CST

Good Morning everyone! We go this morning for repeat blood counts. I was worried about Fisher all day yesterday because he fell asleep early in the morning and slept all day. He also didn't go to the bathroom at all until around 530/6 in the evening. (more info than you needed I know) I don't think it is normal at all for anyone to only go twice in a 36 hour time span. His doctor says it is ok. So, what do I know?
We will see how it goes today. I just know we will be back home early in the day :).
I hope you all have a wonderful day. I will update when we get home.
Love,
Carolyn

Wednesday, December 3, 2003 6:58 PM CST

Thankfully we are home and fever-free! Thank you all for your guestbook entries wishing Fisher well. Most of all, thank you for your prayers. I am convinced that is why we are home tonight. :)

The doctors say that Fisher's nosebleeds were because the room was so warm and dry. His urine analysis came back okay as well. We never did figure out what made his fever go so high. I am just so thankful we are home. :)
Have a nice evening!
Love,
Carolyn

Wednesday, December 3, 2003 9:12 AM CST

Day 3

Well, all you who stay in the hospital for days and months,
I tip my hat to you. Here it is Day 3, and I am going insane. Fisher did reasonably well with transfusion yesterday. His only comment about the whole thing was, "how come the blood is going in, instead of going out?".

Today brings a few more concerns. He still is having nosebleeds, he is having trouble going to the bathroom, and this morning he woke up with a headache, and complained about the lights hurting his eyes.

We have our fingers crossed about getting to go home today. But, I think it is begining to look doubtful.
Thank you for all your prayers.

Have a great day,
Love,
Carolyn

Tuesday, December 2, 2003 7:14 AM CST

Day 2 Hospital Stay

Well last night was an experience. Fisher had nosebleeds, fevers that went up and down, and hardly any sleep. Right now they are preparing to give him a transfusion. His Hgb went from 8.0 to 7.4 in under 24 hours. I guess the small ray of sun is that his ANC went from 110 to 209.
I am off to the cafeteria to try and sweet talk to the cook into making him some fries. Which is the only thing he wants to eat right now.
Please continue to pray.
Love,
Carolyn

Monday, December 1, 2003 4:27 PM CST

Right now, Fisher is resting so I thought I would update real quick. His fever keeps going up and down, up and down. His blood counts are low, Hgb is 8.0 and his ANC is a scary 109. So, we will be here for a few days.
Please pray for my little FishieBug.
I will try and update again soon.
Love,
Carolyn

Monday, December 1, 2003 9:58 AM CST

Well, as we suspected, Fisher is being admitted today. He currently has a fever of 104. I will try and update as I can.

Monday, December 1, 2003 6:55 AM CST

Just when you thought all is good, a fever comes along.
Fisher has a fever this morning, so, who knows what the day at the clinic will bring. I will try to update later.

Friday, November 28, 2003 8:59 AM CST

Good Morning my Friends!! I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving. Mine was very, very nice. I spent the morning cooking (my favortie thing to do), and then we went to my sister's house. It was so nice to be with my family. After dinner, I watched the football game with my nephew. The only thing that would have made the day perfect would have been if the Cowboys had won. It didn't matter to Fisher though he still did his "How 'bout them Cowboys!!" whenever he came out in the livingroom.

Not much else is going on. I do have a few prayer requests though.

Please pray for Lindsey and her family. They are headed to Disney on Sunday. Pray for a safe trip and a memorable time.
Please pray for Jeremey and his mom. He has been in the hospital for so long now. We are hoping he can go home soon.
Please join me in thanking God that Brandon's tumor has shrunk again!! I am so happy for him and his family.
Please pray for little "Mighty-Max's" family. Max lost his fight with Hurler's on Wednesday. His family could really use some special prayers right now.
In our clinic, several families are having the first holiday season without their little angels: Taylor, Thomas, David, McKayla (I know I am forgetting someone, please forgive me)
I am so thankful for this forum, to be able to share in the joys, triumphs, and sorrows.
Thank you for checking on us.
We love you all,
Carolyn and Fisher

Monday, November 24, 2003 5:06 PM CST

Hello everyone :-) Today's visit was pretty uneventual. Fisher's counts continue to drop. His nurse isn't worried about them too much, but then again, I do enough worrying for both of us.
He was able to fight the sick feeling this time. However, he didn't fight me when I gave him his Zofran this evening.
Once again, he is here playing Spyro on his Playstation, and he is doing pretty good.

Thanks for checking on us, and please remember to sign his guestbook. It means so much to him, to hear from his friends.

Have a nice evening,
Carolyn

Friday, November 21, 2003 12:03 AM CST

Well, we had our visit today with Fisher's neurologist. Fisher 'wowed' us by jumping up and down. Small feat for some kids, but a major, major milestone for Fisher.

Like I said in my post yesterday I took in the MRI from a year ago, and the one from a few weeks ago. First of all, the doctor was impressed that I did that. (I quickly said that it was at the suggestion of another parent with a brain tumor child) Well the news is, that when you compare the two, the brain stem tumor is slightly smaller!! I was so, so happy to hear that. I have been singing "To God be the glory, great things He hath done!!" all afternoon. I know it is only 'slightly' smaller, but, hey, in an area no bigger than a drinking straw, 'slightly' sounds wonderful to me!! The spinal cord one is about the same. As the doctor put it, we are "buying time" until Fisher is old enough for radiation or until we can find another something that might work. He also agrees with me that when this protocal is finished in 13 weeks, we should see if there is anything out there to try.
Thank you all for checking on Fisher, and most of all, thank you for your prayers and support. Without the love, prayers and support of my friends, I don't know what I would do.
Please remember to sign the guestbook. Like I said before, Fisher loves to see who all has visited him.
Have a nice evening!
Carolyn

Thursday, November 20, 2003 10:07 AM CST

Good Morning everyone! Today is one of those "banner" days for Fisher. He has a *normal, ordinary, run-of-the-mill childhood condition. He has pink eye. Luckily we caught it early, so, it won't take much to treat it. I know it sounds strange, but there is something 'comforting' knowing that he can still get ordinary, every day childhood sicknessess. We even went to just the peditrician. Something we haven't done since his 5 year old check up. Bless his heart, he asked the dr if he would need to get his port accessed. The dr smiled at him and said no. I have a feeling that Fisher would rather have his port accessed than to have eye-drops.
I hear that Kody is in the hospital :(. So, if you get the chance, please visit his site, and wish him well. He and his mom do so much to bring smiles to so many in the Caringbridge Family. So, please say a prayer for them, and visit his site to say hello. http://www.caringbridge.org/fl/kodysstory/

Tomorrow is Fisher's visit to his neurologist. We will go over in detail Fisher's latest MRI. I am taking Cheyenne's dad's advice and I am taking the MRI we had before starting chemo a year ago, as well as the one he just had. That way we can see where we were vs. where we are now. The timing is perfect, because we also meet with his onocolgist on Monday.

Thank you for checking on us. Please remember to sign the guestbook, Fisher loves to hear from all his friends. Even if it is a hello. (ahem.... you know who >g<)
Have a wonderful day,
Carolyn

Monday, November 17, 2003 1:30 PM CST

Good afternoon everyone. Today was Fisher's first day back on chemo after his two week break. His blood counts were low, particularly his platelets. They were the lowest they have been since starting treatment (125). I know to some that doesn't seem like a real low number, but, when Fisher's has been running at 500 , that is a really low number for him. His Hgb was 10.5 to me, that is a low number too seeing that he hasn't had chemo in 2 weeks.
I also got the radilogist report from his MRI. I can't hardly make heads or tails of it. I think that the gist of the thing is that the tumors are unchanged. Fisher has an appointment with his neurologist on Friday, and I will get him to look at the report.
Also, my "overprotective, neurotic" side is coming out too.
You all who are (sadly) more experienced in this could probably tell me. If they are just comparing each MRI with the last one, and the tumors are slow growing, would it not be more prudent to go back a couple of MRI's to see if there has been any stuble changes? Or am I worrying for nothing? At any rate, I am taking older MRIs and the newest one to the doctor on Friday.
Please don't get me wrong. I am so grateful that the tumors look stable. I just want to know for sure that they are.
Anyway, back to the visit today. The chemotherapy made Fisher pretty sick this time, but, once it was over and done with, he was fine. Once again, he beat Mr. Bryan in the race to the elevator. In the van, Fisher was singing so pretty and nice, then all the sudden he yelled, "I want spicey fries NOW!!!!" Let me tell you, there is no way to reason with a 5 year old who is begging for Popeye's Spicey Fries. Of course I wanted him to eat something more gentle on his tummy since he got so sick in the clinic. He went from minor yelling for them to growling, "GIVE ME SPICEY FRIES!!!" Okay, Okay Daimen you can have your spicey fries sheesh! >G< He got his fries and ate like 5 of them and said he was full. Right now he is happily playing his Playstation.
Thank you all for checking on us. Please don't forget to sign the guestbook. Even if it is a quick hello, Fisher loves to see who all has been here.
I hope you all have a wonderful evening.
Love and Hugs to you all,
Carolyn

Tuesday, November 11, 2003 8:38 PM CST

Hello everyone! I am sorry for waiting so long to get this update posted. The preliminary results of the MRI are in. The tumor is stable!!! I am so very thankful to God that this tumor is remaining stable. Words can not even express how much I appreciate everyone praying for my FishieBug.
Right now, I feel so very blessed.

Thank you all for the guestbook entries. Fisher loves them.
Have a wonderful evening!
Love,
Carolyn, Robbie, Josh, Wayne and Fisher

Monday, November 10, 2003 1:53 PM CST

Hello everyone. Today was the big MRI day. We arrived at the hospital about 8:55 am. I found a place to park, and as I parked, I kept thinking I forgot to do something. I thought and thought, and I still couldn't think of what it was. We walked across the lot, and in to the hospital.... I still couldn't think of what it was that I forgot. Up the elevator we went, and as we rounded the corner to the clinic.. it hit me! The "magic" cream! I forgot to put the Emla cream on Fisher's port. Boy I felt terrible. After almost a year of going, that was the first time I forgot. There were times I didn't put it on because we were out, but geesh I never forgot. Poor Fisher was upset because he just knew it was going to hurt. Well, Mr Brave-boy got up on the table and was accessed without the cream and did not shed a single tear! :-) I was so proud of him. But you can bet I won't do that again.

We went to radiology and the time came to sedate him. I must say, I hate that part. I hate watching him "go out". I guess its because I hate being sedated. That loss of control is horrible to me. He fought the Nebutal some, but in the end, the Nebutal won. But not for long though... they were taking to the recovery area, and he woke up and BOY did he wake up!! He was so upset. All he could do is cry and eat graham crackers. He basically cried from the time we left radiation till the time we got home. I had to pull the van over twice to get him buckled back in his car seat. He seems to be doing better now.

We will have the results back soon, and I will update as soon as I know something.
Thank you all for your prayers.
Thanks for checking on our FishieBug!

Take Care,
Carolyn

Monday, November 3, 2003 2:07 PM CST

Well, today went good at the clinic. A quick in and out day. Well as "quick" as it can be for a "quick" day. Our appointment was at 8:45 and we were out by 11:30. Fisher was disappointed that he missed racing Mr. Bryan to the end of the hall. Nurse Becky happily filled in though. Fisher remains the champ :).

So for FishieBug, its back to school tomorrow, and next Monday, is the big MRI day.

I hope you all have a nice evening :).

Monday, November 3, 2003 6:01 AM CST

Just a short update this morning. All we have today is blood work thank goodness!! Fisher is looking forward to an easy day. This cold is still hitting him pretty hard. I will update after our clinic visit.

Have a great day!!

Oh yeah....... the only thing else I have to say is....

"HOW 'BOUT THEM COWBOYS!!!!!"

Saturday, November 1, 2003 6:26 AM CST

First of all I must wish my middle son, Wayne a Happy 14th Birthday! Fourteen!! Where has the time gone. For those of you who don't know Wayne, he is my 'gentle giant'. He is 6'7" (not a typo) and his heart is as big as he is tall. He is an amazing wonderful kid (although his mouth can get him into trouble at times). I am so proud to be his mom! So Happy Birthday Wayne!!!

Now, for Fisher's update. He felt so bad all day yesterday. This cold he has is really sticking with him. When we went to pick up Robbie (my husband) Fisher fell asleep in the van. He slept while we did all our errands. When he woke up, he felt a little better. So we went out for Halloween. Our neighbors really spoiled him. There wasn't a house that we went to that said, "Hi Fisher! Here, take what you want!" They then let him reach into the bowl and get the candy he wanted. He had so much fun. I really live in a wonderful neighborhood. To all you that we went to, thank you so much, you really made him so happy.

This morning, he is feeling a little better. On Monday we have a blood count check, then we are off for the day. Then the following week is his MRI. I always get so nervous about these MRIs. I have faith that the tumor is stable.

Anyway, that is all for today! I hope you all have a very blessed weekend. Thank you for checking on us.
God Bless you all!
Love,
Carolyn

Tuesday, October 28, 2003 8:03 PM CST

Hello my Caringbridge Friends,

Tonight was our clinic's Halloween Party. It was so much fun. It was nice to see our friends we haven't seen in a long time. Fisher finally got to see Lindsey. I must say she looks wonderful! Just like a princess.
Of course, Fisher was tickled to see Brandon, DJ, Jasmine, and his new 'friend' Brianna.
We crossed another milestone with him tonight, probably small potatoes to most of you, but Fisher let the social worker paint on his face. Now he has this whole sensory issue going on, and this was a major, major step for him.
The whole party was wonderful. I must say we have the best Hemoc clinic. :)
Fisher saw his friends, he played and when it was time to go, he did he clinic ritual leaving 'thing' of racing Mr Bryan to the elevator. Somehow Fisher always wins.:)
I hope all of you who go to other clinics have as wonderful staff as we do. I know my journey down this road would be a lot harder without them.
Thank you for checking on us.
Have a wonderful night.
To the staff and Child-life specialists at our clinic, thank you for all you do for our kids. :)

Monday, October 27, 2003 2:23 PM CST

Good afternoon everyone. Well, today was a good day at the clinic. Fisher was such a good boy. His counts were good too. Next week he will only have bloodwork done, and then, but BIG day, November 10, is his MRI. I always get nervous for these things. I just have to have faith, that everything is okay. I just live in fear, that well...... all of you know what I mean. Most of you live in that same fear.
That is about it for today. Thank you for visiting his site, and thank you for praying for him.

Have a wonderful evening :)

Friday, October 24, 2003 8:00 PM CDT

Happy Friday everyone!!

I wanted to post before we got too 'into' the weekend. Thanks to everyone who prayed us through our 'storm' last week. Things are so so much better than they were last week.
I so appreciate all the prayers and emails. Thank you everyone!
Fisher is doing pretty good. He had his first field trip today. I wanted to go with him, but I refrained. I wanted him to feel like he could go somewhere without me and be safe. Needless to say we both survived :) He had a blast. He came home pretty tired, but very happy, and very proud that he went on a "trip" alone. He even picked out his own pumpkin! It was a big day for him. I am so proud of my big boy.
Since I last posted, he has had his hair cut too. Wednesday, he asked me if he can get his hair cut because it was falling out and bothering him. One call to Aunt Terrie, a few buzzes of the clippers, and I have a "little man" before me. I will hopefully get some pictures up soon. For some reason, I am having troubles adding pictures to his page.
Well, that is about it for now. I hope you all have a wonderful blessed weekend.
Thank you for checking on us, and thank you for all your prayers.
Love and hugs to you all,
Carolyn and Fisher

Monday, October 20, 2003 5:26 PM CDT

Good afternoon everyone! Today was such a wonderful day! Fisher counts were fine, he behaved wonderfully, and our worries of last week are almost taken care of. God is so good to us. :)

Fisher had a big big surprise at the clinic today. ELMO!! I will never forget the look on his face when Elmo walked in. It was a neat surprise for all the kids. As soon as I can, I will scan the picture of Fisher and Elmo it is so cute.

Right now he is sitting on the bed playing Crash Bandicoot.

Thank you for your love, prayers and support. Thank you for checking on him. Have a great evening!

Thursday, October 16, 2003 2:04 PM CDT

Well, this morning, we had to make a trip to the clinic. Fisher had a fever and had to get IV antibotics. He is doing better now and is home. We do have to go back in the morning for more antibotics.

Things are so much better for me today. In fact, this is the best day I have had in a long long LONG time. It started out this morning with something totally wonderful happened to my buddy Brandon. (His mom will have to update on his page, but trust me it is so wonderful!!!) My worries about my bills are better, much much better. Thanks to my dear friends at the clinic. I know a lot of you who read this prayed for us, and our situation. Thank you so very much. The Lord has answered the prayers of many. I am so so relieved. I feel like a huge burden has been lifted off my shoulders.

Thank you for checking on him. Thank you for praying for us.
I hope you all have a wonderful, wonderful night!!

Love,
Carolyn

Wednesday, October 15, 2003 5:56 PM CDT

Wow, two updates in one day! Amazing! :) I had to come back and change my last post. I was having a bad moment, and I hope I didn't upset anyone. Thanks to everyone to emailed me to give me encouragement. The thoughts and prayers behind the emails and guestbook entries mean so much.

I hope you all have a wonderful night.

Wednesday, October 15, 2003 1:22 PM CDT

Good afternoon everyone. Well Fisher isn't feeling too good today. He came home from school, went to his favorite 'Mom and Pop' lunch spot, ate lunch, and he has been asleep ever since. My sister thinks its just him being tired from school. I sure hope she is right.

I am wreck. I really don't know how much more I can take. Our family has been hit with so much over the past few years. Fisher's illness has put a whole new dimension to our stress. I lay awake at night worrying about him, I worry about my older boys, I worry about our bills. I wonder how much more stress can our marriage take? We have been through more in our 16 years of marriage, than most go through in a life time.

I am so thankful that I have a strong support system. My mom, my sister, my friends at the clinic, and my online friends all help me. I am blessed with a lot of my special friends I see on Saturday night. Thank you all for all you do for us. I don't think I could make it through all this without you all.

Thank you all for checking on us. I appreciate all your support.

Have a great evening,
Carolyn

Tuesday, October 14, 2003 11:44 AM CDT

Hello everyone. Yesterday at the clinic was pretty much uneventful as far as Fisher is concerned. He behaved wonderfully. His counts are holding steady. Today he is a bit on the queasy side, but he said if he had a Happy Meal that would help.

I have received a few emails asking for an address to send Fisher cards. I will be getting a PO Box and posting it tomorrow.

Thank you for checking on him. I appreciate all the guestbook entries, and the emails.

Have a great day,
Carolyn

Saturday, October 11, 2003 5:54 AM CDT

Good morning everyone. Right now, my house is so peaceful. Robbie and Joshua have gone fishing. Wayne and Fisher are still asleep. I have been visiting some Caringbridge pages, reading, praying and crying. I still have to wonder "Why?". Why do these kids have to go through so much, only to still pass away? I know I have talked about the two kids from our clinic, that passed away last month. These were two wonderful kids, they hadn't even reached their 10th birthday yet. Now they are gone. I look at Fisher laying in the bed, sleeping so peacefully. He only has 21 weeks of chemotherapy left. I wonder, "Then what?" If the chemo has kept his tumor stable, what happens when he stops chemo? Those of you who know Fisher, you all know, to look at him, you would never ever know anything was wrong. He is so full of life. He has a wonderful, beautiful smile. I just don't understand why he has to go through so much. In three weeks, he will be getting another MRI. I am so nervous about it. Please pray that his tumor is shrinking.
Things here at the house are going so, so. When Fisher got sick, I had to quit working, so our finances are so strained right now. I have to prayer requests in that regard. #1 that God will get us through this month money-wise. #2 our van is on its last leg.
As far as how Fisher is doing, he is doing good. He gets tired so easily, but, he never lets anything stop him. Hopefully, I will be able to update on Monday. Caringbridge is updating its server and maybe down for few days. I will update on Monday's visit as soon as I can.

Thank you for checking on him. Please pray for all the families who have recently lost their precious children.
Have a wonderful weekend.
I hope you get to go out and enjoy the day God made for you!

Tuesday, October 7, 2003 7:49 AM CDT

Good morning everyone! Sorry about not updating yesterday. Fisher is doing great. His counts are back up and he was finally able to get chemotherapy.
He had fun playing the PS2 and watching Willy Wonka.

Yesterday afternoon, we had a treat! Our friend Donna came in from Canada and brought him a lot of wonderful surprises. She gave him a Red Ranger Motorcycle. He loved it so much, he wanted to sleep with it. :)

Not a lot to report today. No news is good news!
Thanks for checking on him, and have a wonderful day!

Friday, October 3, 2003 6:58 PM CDT

Well everyone, the weekend is finally here. We have power, Fisher's counts are good and the week was relatively uneventful. Which is fantastic for us! Our van even passed inspection. Thank the Lord!!!

I have put some new pictures on the album page. I had pictures taken of Fisher today. He is such a joy. I say as I take a almost empty box of tissues from him. (a few minutes ago it was a full box.) Boys!!! :)

I am hoping tomorrow I can take him to meet with Clifford the Big Red Dog. He was supposed to go to the Barney Show, but because of the storm it was canceled.

Thank you for checking on us. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend.

Wednesday, October 1, 2003 6:30 PM CDT

Well, today was just a plain ordinary day! I am so thankful for the plain ordinary days! Fisher didn't want to go back to school today. He said they didn't have a Playstation there. He is so funny at times. It is so humorous to watch him play these games. He will move his little hands around as if to help the character out. He walks all around in the direction the character needs to go. I sit here and laugh till I cry watching him.
He did go back to school and he loved it.

That is it for tonight :)
Thanks for checking on us, and please have wonderful evening!

Tuesday, September 30, 2003 6:48 AM CDT

Good morning everyone! Well, Fisher's counts were much much better yesterday. I was so relieved! Hgb 10.7 (still not great, but better), platelets 430, and ANC 3804!! Thank you so much for your prayers they sure worked! He still didn't feel quite up to going back to school today. (I think his new Playstation had a lot to do with it Ü ) But he will be going back tomorrow.

Thank you for checking on him. Have a great day!

Sunday, September 28, 2003 1:06 PM CDT

Good afternoon everyone! Fisher is doing a bit better. His shingles spot is gone, there is only a red speck where it was and he has no fever. Thank you all for your prayers for him.
Things around here are slowly returning to normal, but there are reminders of Isabel everywhere. Even as I speak, crews from other states are working to restore power to some of our surrounding neighborhoods. I am so thankful to the crews who came in to help.
Tomorrow is chemotherapy day. I am a bit nervous to get his blood work back. I am hoping and praying that they come back good. I know he will be happy to see all his friends in the clinic, especially Ms. Jennifer and Mr. Bryan.
That is all for today. Thank you again to everyone for your prayers, and for signing his guestbook.
Have a great Sunday, and I will update again after chemotherapy tomorrow.

Thursday, September 25, 2003 5:55 PM CDT

Well everyone we are finally home. Thanks to Lisa for updating Fisher's page for me. Fisher's counts came up enough for us to be able to come home with oral antibotics.

Tuesday of last week, I noticed a small rash above Fisher's eye. I kept trying to sneak looks at it because I didn't want him to start scratching it and get it infected. For a few minutes, I thought about calling Mrs. T, Fisher's nurse, just to see if she thought he needed to be seen. But, I thought it was just a small rash, no big deal. The day the storm hit, we lost power pretty early in the day, so we were all out in the livingroom with the door open and the front window open watching the wind blow. Fisher was sleeping on the floor, and I looked at it again, and to me, it looked similar to the chicken pox. There again, I quickly dismissed the idea because Fisher had the chicken pox vaccine. Those of you who know me know I can be pretty neurotic where Fisher is concerned.
Well, finally the storm ended. We were still without power, and foolishly I almost left to go find the power company to see if they were working to restore power. Little did I know that night, the devastation that had hit our area. There wasn't a street in our neighborhood that didn't have trees down on them. One of my neighbors down the street, for some unknown reason went to his shed during the storm. While he was in the shed, a huge tree fell on his house destroying everything. Powerlines were down, our phone service was down and suddenly the three most sought after items were ice, water and gas. Through all this, I kept checking Fisher's "rash" still not convinced in my mind that it was a "rash." As the days wore on, we were trying to stay cool, and keep the kids occupied. My sister got power Saturday afternoon, and the invasion began. I will for ever be indebted to my sister for allowing us to shower, cool off, and sleep at her house.
Monday finally rolled around, we were still without power at my house, and Fisher had chemotherapy. We got to the chemotherapy lab, and I just mentioned the rash to the triage nurse and to the oncology pediatrician. Well, they were immediately concerned. Dr. W, came in and looked at it, and said it looked like shingles to him, and that any rash should be treated as a medical emergency. Well, things moved both quickly and slowly at that point. I called Robbie at work, and he came up there. I am sure that most of you know the drill from there, IV antibiotics, IV fluids, insolation. We didn't go to the regular oncology floor because of the fear of exposing the other kids to what Fisher had. So, most of the time, it was just the two of us, playing and getting on each other's nerves. Just when I thought I was going to lose it, one of the wonderful Child Life volunteers, or workers would come in and give me a break. I was so blessed to be able to meet Chaplain Janet. She is such a sweet, sweet lady.
Then today, DR B came in and gave us the good news that since the rash was no longer "watery" we could go home. So finally after a long day of waiting for discharge orders, and stuff we are home.
Thanks to you all for your prayers, thank you Lisa for updating everyone.
Fisher wanted me to post a special thank you to Mr Bryan for coming through with the PS2 today. :)

Thank you all for checking on Fisher. Have a blessed evening. :)

Ohhhhh yeah........ As of yesterday approximently 2pm..........WE HAVE POWER!!!!!!

Wednesday, September 24, 2003 7:44 PM CDT

Hi everyone,

This is Carolyn and Fisher's friend Lisa. (princess LIndsey's Mom). Carolyn ask me to do a quick update as they are inpatient down at CHKD. Fisher has a spot on his eye and at clinic on Monday Dr. Werner found it to be shingles. It is not bothering him, except for a little itching but his anc is extremley low and he needs to be on antibiotics. They are hoping to be able to go home on Friday. Fisher sounded good. While I was talking to Carolyn I could here him in the background playing and laughing. There power came back on today and she will update more when they get home.

Don't forget to sign Fisher's guestbook!!

Lisa

Tuesday, September 16, 2003 7:04 AM CDT

Good morning everyone. Fisher had a pretty good night last night. He rested well. He woke up this morining with some leg pain, but didn't want the pain medicine. I have a pain scale chart and asked him to show me how he felt, he said a 4. To me, that is quite a lot of pain, but, he still said he would walk around and try to get it to stop that way. He hates taking medicine. Every morning it is a struggle to get him to take his pills. He prefers pills over liquid. Every morning, we end up in tears, so if anyone has any tips on a way to get him to take them with out all the fuss, I am all ears.

Our clinic is really having a terrible week. Last Saturday, we lost Thomas, and this week, we lost Taylor. I have wondeful sweet memories of them both. These two were very brave, and sweet spirited kids. If you think about it, please say a prayer for thier families. Also, for the nurses, doctors and the rest of the staff in the clinic.

Thank you for checking on Fisher. I hope you all have a wonderful day.

Monday, September 15, 2003 8:28 PM CDT

Well, today was one of those days I wished I would have just stayed in bed. First to learn of sweet Taylor's passing. Then to turn on the news and learn that Isabel is headed our way. Then, we get to the hospital, and we learn that Fisher's counts are too low to get chemo. Hgb 8.7; Platelets 167 (up from last week); and ANC 280.

The thing I really like about the clinic that we go to is the doctors, nurses and child life specialists are so wonderful with the kids. I could just go on and on about how I feel about each one of them.

Thanks for checking on Fisher, and I hope you all have a wonderful evening.

Sunday, September 14, 2003 5:00 PM CDT

Happy Sunday everyone! Well, all your prayers worked! Fisher and I feel so much better today. I felt horrible all week last week, and I was afraid I wouldn't be able to go to the hemoc picnic today. But, when I woke up this morning I felt much much better. Fisher did too :) So, we were able to go to his favorite breakfast spot, and we were able to go to the picnic.
The picnic was wonderful! Thanks to the staff for making it so much fun. It was so nice to visit with the parents and kids in such a fun setting. The only person that could have made the day complete was his buddy Lindsey.
Thanks to DJ, Aarron, Jasmine, Kate, all the nurses and Child Life specialists, the Social Workers and very special thank you to Ally for making the day such a fun day.
I should have some pictures up soon on the album page.

Thank you again for visiting Fisher's site and signing his guestbook. I trully appreciate all the support of our friends! I hope you all have a wonderful week. I will update tomorrow after chemo.

Friday, September 12, 2003 2:14 PM CDT

Happy Friday everyone!! Today has been an icky day. Its raining, I'm sick and Fisher is sick. We both have one of those end of the summer colds. We are both miserable. My oldest son has been helping me though. I have been too sick to do anything today.

Fisher gets this big burst of energy, then over does it, and gets very tired and very grouchy. Thankfully, he hasn't had a fever with it. I do have a feeling however that on Monday, we will be in isolation. Fisher will not like that a bit. Hopefully he won't have to be, and if he is, maybe his buddy Mr Brian will be there.

Anyway, thanks for checking on my FishieBug. I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

~~~ Carolyn

Monday, September 8, 2003 4:08 PM CDT

Fisher had a good day at chemotherapy. He counts are still low, and we are watching them closely. Platelets 132, Hgb 9.1, and ANC 3234. He is still bruising easily, and that has me worried, but, overall, he is hanging in there.
He is so happy that he goes to school tomorrow. He just loves it.
It makes me happy to see him loving school.
Thanks again for checking up on him, and thanks so much for the prayers and support you all have given him.

Have a wonderful evening!

Monday, September 8, 2003 6:46 AM CDT

Good morning everyone. I had to write before I take Fisher to chemotherapy. I am so sad right now. One of my little friends from the chemo lab passed away on Saturday. He was a sweet little guy. If you think of his family, please say a prayer for them.
I am at a lost of words. I just can't even imagine how his mother and father feels. :-(

I will update on Fisher when we get home.

Wednesday, September 3, 2003 9:52 PM CDT

Well, I did it. I was able to put Fisher on the bus this morning and send him off to school. He was so excited. I was a nervous wreck. I walked him down to the bus stop and we waited for the bus. He goofed around a bit, and then when the bus came, he hugged me and said, "I will miss you mommy". I almost took him right back home. But I didn't. It took all my strength to turn around and walk back to the house without him.
When 1145 rolled around I practically ran down to the bus stop. I missed him so much. I waited and waited. One of the neighbors came out and talked to me. I waited and waited some more....... I was about to call the school, the police and the FBI to find out where my baby was. My imagination ran rampant..... he was probably stuck at school crying for me, and I couldn't get to him... I waited and waited. Finally after 10 mins of waiting the bus came.
Of course he was safe, and full of smiles. He informed me that tomorrow he will be walking to the bus stop alone.... yeah right fat chance :)

Once again, I must share the wonderful news that my little Buddy Brandon's tumor has decreased in size quite a bit. :-) Please visit his website and read the great news. His site is linked below.

Thank you for checking on Fisher. You all are wonderful to him.

Tuesday, September 2, 2003 4:53 PM CDT

Well, we are finally home from chemotherapy. He has lost a pound,he is back down to 35lbs. His counts are low, but not too low. Hbg: 10.8, Platelets: 139; ANC: 2310
He is still having some bruising, so the doctor ordered some tests to see what is up with that.
He was a very good boy today. This evening he is feeling a bit sick to his stomach. As far as the results from the tumor board, they looked over his MRI and said the tumors are "basically unchanged". The doctor did say that was good. To me, the tumor is either changed or unchanged. "Basically unchanged" worries me. But of course I am a neurotic parent.
Fisher starts Pre-K tomorrow. I am taking a big step and letting him ride the bus. He is so excited. I am a nervous wreck. I know it is best for him, and I know he will love it.
I will have some "First Day of School" pictures on the album page tomorrow.

We did get a bit of WONDERFUL, WONDERFUL news today!! Brandon's tumor is shrinking again!! I am so happy for him!

Thanks for checking on our Fishie Bug! I really do appreciate all the prayers and support!

Monday, September 1, 2003 9:47 AM CDT

Happy Labor Day everyone! I think I am finally rested up after our family day at Kings Dominion! Fisher had so much fun. He got to "drive" cars, truck, airplanes, and boats. He even got to ride a roller coaster. I will have pictures on the album page soon.
Tomorrow is chemo day. I am very nervous about his counts. They didn't come up very high after his two week break, and he is starting to bruise easily. I should also hear what the tumor board had to say about the latest MRI.
Thank you all for your prayers and support. Fisher gets so excited when he sees all the entries in his guestbook.

Tuesday, August 26, 2003 6:44 AM CDT

Well, yesterday went pretty good. His counts are better this week. Of course he is coming off a two week break. His counts were: Hgb: 11.1, Platelets: 175, ANC: 1394. So, the numbers aren't great, but, we'll take them. :)
The biggest thing coming up is Tumor Board tomorrow. Then after that, they will send the films to Dr Packer in DC.

So far, its been a pretty uneventful week (for a change). We are using our "Passport to America" this weekend, and we are taking the kids to a Kings Dominion. They are so excited about that. They had such a rough year last year. We are hoping that starting the year off fun, will get them on a more positive note.

Also, I have a friend that has a daughter who has neurofibromatosis. Her MRI came back okay, but, a few days later, the little girl had a stroke. :( So, if you all could please remember this family in your prayers I would appreciate it.

A lot of you that visit Fisher's site also, visit "Princess" Lindsey's site. She has had a tough couple weeks, so please remember this sweet little girl too.
Thank you all for your emails. Fisher just loves seeing all the guestbook entries.

I hope you all have a wonderful day!!!

Thursday, August 21, 2003 7:21 AM CDT

The intial report on the MRI is that everything is stable. This is just the preliminary report and not the final report from Fisher's doctor. His nurse called me last night to let me know. Teresa is wonderful, she knows how much all the parents at the clinic worry, and as soon as she can get an answer she gets it. I will be getting some sort of final answer from Dr B, at some point today.
Even though I would have loved to hear that the tumors are reducing in size, I am so thankful that they aren't increasing.

Anyway, I just wanted to post a quick update. I know you all have been checking to see how it went. I so appreciate all your prayers and support. I really don't know what I would do without with my friends.
Thank you so very much.

I will post more, as soon as I know more.

**** New Update ****

I just got off the phone with Fisher's nurse. The tumors are stable, and his optic nerves are unchanged.
They will bring Fisher's case to the tumor board next week, and then all the films will be sent off to DC, so that Dr. Packer can review them.

Tuesday, August 19, 2003 9:50 PM CDT

Well, Fisher had his MRI today. Hopefully we will get some sort of results tomorrow. They had to sedate him in order to do the MRI. They used nebutal. It took them all three doses to knock him out.
His blood counts are about the same, all but his ANC which went up to almost 1000 :). Lindsey, your fever dances have been working!!! So thank you sweetie.
Robbie and I so appreciate the support we have gotten since we put up Fisher's webpage. It is so overwhelming to know we have so many out there that are really praying and are concerned about Fisher. Thank you all :).

I will update as soon as I hear something.
Have a great evening!

Sunday, August 17, 2003 1:15 PM CDT

Just a short update today. Fisher is still feeling a bit droopy. Well, I should say he wakes up, he has lots of energy, but then, by about 1 or 2, he is zapped out. We had some relatives come from out of town, and they spoiled Fisher rotten :). It was great to see them again, and meet a new friend, Donna. :)
This morning, we went to breakfast, and Fisher met up with his friend "Chipper". He even got to share ketchup with Mr. Chuck. :) Seeing Chipper and his family really made Fisher happy.
Please continue to pray for Fisher. I am so concerned about this MRI he is having on Tuesday. I can see small stuble signs that the tumor is changing. (Either that or it is just me being a neurotic mom)
Just some information about Fisher's tumor. His tumor is a product of the genetic disorder, neurofibromatosis. Even though it is not cancerous, it is still considered "malignant" because of the location, size and growth rate. From what I have read, "Protcell" works wonders on cancerous tumors, but, is not very effective on neurofibromatosis tumors. Surgery is not an option because of the location of the tumor. The tumor isn't *on the brainstem, it is *in the brainstem. It is in the pontine area (the top of the brainstem) continues down the stem into the top of the spinal cord. The tumors that are effecting his eyesight are on his optic nerves. On Tuesday, the MRI will be of his brain, upper spinal cord and of the optical orbit. I will be sure to update everyone as soon as I hear something.
Thank you all again for checking up on him, and signing his guestbook.
We appreciate all the gifts, prayers, and kind thoughts.
** I am also adding new pictures to the album.

Wednesday, August 13, 2003 5:43 PM CDT

We finally made it back from the eye doctor (thanks again Terrie for taking us). I guess I have mixed feelings about what the doctor said. Fisher's eyesight is worse in his left eye than in his right. However, it is unchanged from his last visit to the eye doctor. The doctor was concerned that the orbital nerve is being compressed by a tumor. So, when Fisher has his MRI on Tuesday, he was an orbital study done too. He said that more than likely if we hadn't started Fisher on the chemo, his vision would be much worse. Because although we started it because of the brainstem tumor, it still effect any tumors in the body. I did ask if glasses would help him see better, and he said that glasses would not help. So, we have to wait again, to see what the results of the MRI turn out to be.
Thank you all for checking on my FishieBug, and signing his guestbook. He thinks he is a celebrity :).

Monday, August 11, 2003 9:12 PM CDT

Today we went to the clinic for some bloodwork, and to talk to the doctor about Fisher's vision. Dr. B. seemed very concerned about it, and had his nurse make us an appointment to see the eye dr right away. We go on Weds.
Fisher's eye is turning in more too. Hopefully we will have some answers soon. Fisher also has an MRI next week. I always get nervous about them.
As far as his counts are concerned, his hgb was 10 his platelets were 364 and his ANC was 346. The ANC has me concerned because it would be hard for him to fight off any infections he may get.
He was so brave today. The nurse drew his blood from his arm instead of his port. He is getting so tired of being poked. He did cry at first, but, he stopped quick too. He really behaved at the clinic too. He was a bit sad though, because his "regular" friends weren't there DJ, Aaron, and of course, Lindsey. These three amazing kids have really helped him get through his treatments.
Anyway, that is it for now. Thank you for reading, and signing his guestbook. He loves it when I read all the messages to him.
Hugs and Lots of prayers for all the sick children,
Carolyn

Friday, August 8, 2003 10:14 PM

Today was Fisher's five year check up. Since last year, he has gained 4 pounds. His doctor was very happy with that. Fisher's weight is something that we have both been concerned about for quite some time.
The major area of concern is his eyesight. He didn't do too well on his eye exam, and she said she noticed that his left eye was turning in a bit. I have noticed it some too. His left eye is one that he has always said was "broken". It is also his left optic nerve that had the most optic gliomas. I will be making an appointment with his eye doctor to see what he thinks.

I also want to thank everyone who has come and read our page, and signed the guestbook. He likes checking to see who has signed. I am so overwhelmed by the words of encouragement, and the messages of support. So thanks to all of you. :-)

Hope you all have a great weekend. I will update again soon.

Tuesday, August 5, 2003 9:28 PM

My name is Carolyn, and Fisher is my four...... excuse me, FIVE year old son. Fisher has an inoperable brain stem/spinal cord glioma. He is currently undergoing chemotherapy at CHKD. Over the course of time, I will back track and give the full story on Fisher and how we got where we are now.
Currently, he is at the half way point of his protocal. As his doctor says, its better than being at the 1/4 point. Fisher has a team of wonderful doctors. They are so patient.... with both of us. I am your classic neurotic mother. Fisher breathes "wrong", Im worried. He stumbles some I worry. His doctors patiently help me wade through what is "normal" and what isn't.

I will try to update often. Thanks for reading! Have a blessed day!

Tuesday, August 5, 2003 8:44 PM CDT

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