Journal entry by Mike and Nancy Alexander —
Thank you seems too insignificant for the meals, kind words, and contributions we have received, but the Alexander family say thank you. Thank you! Really, THANK YOU!
Crista is so lucky to have the support and love of her family brothers Chad, Curt and especially Chet who rarely leaves her side and friends- you are so important to her!
December and January have had their ups and downs.
December found us in a new world, that of Palliative Care. We found ourselves immersed in visits and phone calls to and from Doctors, Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, In-home Nurses all to secure in home services for Crista. Attempting to venture out to appointments has become unrealistic. Crista’s ability to walk has diminished significantly, a gait belt is used for assistance and safety making stairs out of the question.
The Holidays -
We did what Crista would do; we moved the Christmas celebration to her house, the whole family together, it was a special Christmas Eve. Crista was able to enjoy Christmas day with her boys, Alex, and Rhys in what they are calling the ‘Best Christmas’.
2024 -
After Blood draws, MRIs with and without contrast Crista met with Dr. Neil, Neuro-Oncology on January 5th.
Dr. Neil’s overall findings after reviewing the information provided by the MRIs support a significant positive response to the treatment plan that is currently in place. She unfortunately also stated that this was a terminal cancer with the treatment plan in place slowing the progression. Dr. Neil also noted that Crista had minimal improvement in her hemiparesis and aphasia since early December. Miracles happen, slowing the progression is good but slaying the darn cancer is Crista’s plan!
January brought a lot of changes. Crista is now having in home Speech therapy, Occupational therapy, in home infusions, and in home Nursing care. The calendar is loaded with reminders of who, what and when. The days are busy and exhausting, but Crista is getting the expert care she so badly needs.
Crista’s ability to communicate is limited to one or two words, often words that have no correlation to what she is trying to say. Sometimes funny, sometimes sad, but always a guessing game. ‘Drunk’ is her favorite, hummmmm! But what does that mean? One day a chicken sandwich, the next day a white chocolate mocha, the next a take-out from Mac’s.
Each day is a roller coaster of emotions, a lot of bumps, a lot of curves, so we all look for and enjoy the highs of each day!
Our dear Crista says …..
Love you all!
Give hugs freely and often!
Again, for all the prayers, kind words, meals, and contributions, Thank You! Two words that can never express our gratitude enough!
The Alexander’s
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