Many of you may remember
this diary from Daily Kos member Barbara, in which she recounted the medical problems that her sister in Wisconsin was experiencing.
I received an email from Barbara today, and I thought I would share it with those of you who are interested in getting an update. The news isn't very cheerful, but it shows that there is a committed member of this community that could use some of your positive vibes.
More below...
Through all of this, I keep thinking of Barbara's
amazing trip to the Gulf coast soon after Katrina - how she felt absolutely DRIVEN to do something to help those in need.
Seems to me that the least we all could do is say a quiet prayer for her sister.
Anyway, the update is below:
Dear All,
As I do not have daily internet capability and lousy phone service where we are staying, please be understanding that it is easier to write a 'group' email for me...plus it is just too difficult for me to try and write numerous people from an emotional standpoint.
Mother and I have made it to Superior and settled into the cabin. It's working fine. The dogs love the lake (dah) and the walking and peace is what we need as we go through this horrific journey with Betti.
There is NO sugar coating what is happening with her or her condition.
She has AML leukemia brought on by a benzene chemical spill 14 years ago 1/2 mile from her home. She is NOT the only victim.
For some odd reason that the oncologist can't figure out, she is not going into remission.
He told us last night (when I asked him WHY) that given the specificil makeup of what they look at that she should have been in remission with the protocol that is followed...there have been several infections along the way and that has caused bad relapses.
Betti suffered a brain bleed 8 days ago and is still recoverying from that SLOWLY and her chemo has had to stop as a result...this is obviously NOT good.
Her options are:
1. IF/WHEN she stablizes enough to continue chemo, she takes a 2nd round of the chemo that has made her so damn sick and we pray that is in the 20% that goes INTO REMISSION.
2. IF/WHEN she stablizes she takes an 'oral' chemo drug that is 'new'...and it may or maynot do something for her.
3. She chooses to stop everything and the cancer will take over and she will pass away within 6-12 weeks.
I beg of ALL of you to continue to pray/hold her in your heart and in white light . SHE WANTS TO FIGHT...I am going to put all my effort and energy in helping her...if anyone can make that 20% sh will.
This is the most difficult thing I've ever gone through in my life...we are going to fight this, but the emotional toll is so great.
I worry about my Mom greatly.
Betti's 'new' husband is a big wonderful teddy bear that I truly believe was sent to her as her guardian angel...he has an amazing gentle soul and their love is so incredible.
NO ONE deserves remission and quality of life more the Betti.
Thank you to everyone for your words, cards, prayers and healing thoughts.
Betti is at St. Mary's Medical Center, Duluth Minnesota.
Be well and cherish each and every moment of life...tell those around you that you love them...don't wait for the 'right time'.
Barbara