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Jerry and Joanie’s Story

Site created on August 26, 2019

On Thursday August 15th, Jerry (aka Dad) went in to see his primary doctor for cramps he had been having for several weeks in his left leg. The cramps were mainly in his left calf, would come and go, but also involved some weakness in the leg which affected his walking a bit. The primary doc called in a neurologist who was concerned that Dad may have suffered a stroke, so he ordered an MRI of his brain. The MRI was done on Monday August 19th and although it did not show a stroke, it did reveal 3 tumors in Dad's brain. One tumor, on the right side of his brain, is the size of a ping pong ball and is located in the back of his brain in the area that controls walking and coordination. The docs believe this tumor and the swelling around it are pressing down on part of the brain and that the leg "cramps" are actually seizures in the leg. There are also two smaller tumors lower in the brain but the docs do not feel these two are affecting dad's functioning at this time.

After the brain tumors were discovered, a CT scan of his chest was also ordered. Unfortunately, this also revealed a golf ball sized tumor in his lung near the diaphragm. Since apparently brain tumors do not "travel", the doctors believe the tumors started in the lung and then traveled to the brain. Although a biopsy has not yet confirmed it, the doctors are quite certain these tumors are cancerous. Dad was started on a steroid and an anti-seizure medication and scheduled for several appointments. As the final piece to a very bad few days, he was told that he is unable to drive at this time for fear of a more massive seizure while driving.

So begins our journey as we walk this path with Dad and Mom. On a brighter note, Dad is physically feeling pretty good, remains sharp as a rusty tack, and both he and Mom are taking it "one day at a time". The meds seem to be helping and have minimized the leg seizures with no significant side effects as of now. We will update this site as often as we can and, of course, Dad welcomes your prayers, positive thoughts, and maybe an encouraging post to this site.

Thanks.

Newest Update

Journal entry by Paul Downes — Dec 13, 2022

Just a reminder that Mom's funeral will be held (sleet or shine!) this Friday Dec. 16th beginning at 10:00 am with visitation beginning at 9:00. Both events will be held at the Church of the Assumption in St. Paul (51 7th St. W.) There is ample parking, including handicapped spots, on the sides and in back of the church. Feel free to wear your Irish green or bright colors in memory of Mom.

Unfortunately, we are unable to livestream the service for those who cannot attend. However, we are working on having it recorded. If that is successful, we will post a link to the recording here after the service so that you may watch it at your convenience.

In true Irish style, after the service we will be heading to Tiffany's (2051 Ford Parkway, St. Paul) for food and fun. All are welcome to join.

Hope to see you Friday to help celebrate this great lady.

Here is a link to Mom's obit:

https://www.postbulletin.com/obituaries/obits/joan-margaret-joanie-downes-5ecfe7691e6ee72e56b8942b-637d111596ac5555867fb716

Read More of the journal titled "Mom's Funeral-Reminder"

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