Saturday, January 31, 2009

I write this last entry with a joyful heart. I wanted to wait until we saw the doctor again, to close out this site with good news! I also invite you to send your last messages to Steve at this time. I have attached a site which can be accessed on the "links" section above under "classracer" for those who are interested.

Now for the good news!

Our visit to Dr. Garrett went as expected. He is satisfied that the treatments for both cancers were successful and the chance of any recurrence is slim at best. We will alternate monthly visits between him and Dr. Dunniway (the ENT) for the next year and of course, check that PSA regularly.

Steve has done so well since the feeding tube was removed (what a nightmare!) Although his taste has not yet come to him and he continues to deal with dry mouth, everyday he tries to eat something new and drinks his Boost (a high caloric, nutritional drink). Dr. Garrett assures us that his taste will come back eventually and the dry mouth will improve as well. Steve's weight remains the same and he gets a little stronger every day. The doctor has not yet released him to return to work, but that should come in a month or so.

This time last year we taking dancing lessons and waiting for winter to be over with. And then life took a surprising and unexpected turn that began the most difficult journey we could imagine.

This year we are not just waiting for winter to be overwith, we are embracing every day. Even the foot of snow that fell last week did not discourage us. Waking up to that falling snow was like watching God's blessings pour down on us. The normal days are so sweet. How fortunate we are to know that.

I have used this site to inform, explain and communicate to the masses. I appreciate all the compliments and kind words about my entries, but I can tell you, every word came from my heart. There were many times when this site was theraputic for me. I wrote when I was afraid that if I tried to speak I would only be able to mutter cries. So, if I forgot to say thank you, or mention your name, or to praise God when I should have, forgive me, not every day was clear to me.

Everything you did for us and everything He did for us has not gone unnoticed or unappreciated. I hope you all know that. We are more loved than we knew. We are more blessed than we deserve.

Steve is a strong man. He has proved that so many times in the past, but nothing like this last year. I am so proud of him and the courage he has shown. In the times when he was his weakest he never gave up. In the times when I was weakest he encouraged me. I love him more than words can explain and I thank you for your prayers a thousand times, as I know they were instrumental in his treatment and cure.

Finally, I close with this message from Steve:

"I never knew how many friends I had until now. I want to thank everybody for your prayers. I believe in the power of prayer. I am a blessed man and I have to thank God for that. I appreciate everything you all did for Frosty and I. I am grateful that so many people helped her when she needed it and I was so sick. I don't know how anyone could make it through something like this without family and friends. As Frosty said, we are enjoying everyday, but we are looking forward to racing season and spending time with you all.

Love, Steve