This page is dedicated to my husband, Joe, of 34 years, it is my hope that these links will help those who are walking the same path.
1947-2004
~In God's Hands~
My husband's journey is over, he passed away Friday, September 24, 2004 at 10:20pm. Although it was quick it was not quiet nor peaceful, it was a very violent end as he bled out. I was with him to the end it was over in a matter of a couple of minutes. He was terrified but knew he was dying and I could do nothing to help and that look that passed between us was one of understanding and love. He is with the Creator and is at peace with no more suffering and pain. My family was close, but this was not something that they needed to see. Their Dad running around the house coughing up his life blood and finally dying face down in it. The only thing that saved my sanity was my years of medical experience with 3 of them in the ER as a Respiratory Tech. I knew there was nothing I could have done but I needed to be very detailed with the 911 operator, so I went into work mode as my sister called it which is what probably saved my sanity.
Now a new journey begins for me, so please keep those like me in your prayers
Please take care of yourselves for you always leave loved ones behind and they are the ones who grieve.
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~Journey Begins-September 2003 ended September 2004~
Our journey with cancer began back in September of 2003 with the very beginnings that something was wrong. My husband, Joe, of 34 years began coughing up blood mixed with his sputum, not a good thing. He did not immediately tell me about it so I didn’t know for a while. Our son who is a Radiation Therapist and I tried to get him to go to the doctors, but he was scared. Of course a nationwide study shows that 88% of men don’t seek medical help until it is too late.
Finally in February of 2004 he made an appointment to see our PCP (Primary Care Physician). That was the beginning of many doctors’ appointments for us. There were many tests along the way also that revealed his fate. He was diagnosed with Stage 4 of lung cancer, end stage. That began another journey.
His was one of knowing the end was near and wondering what was at the other end and what it would be like. He was afraid of leaving me with nothing. Knowing that you are dying is a journey unto itself and not being on that road I couldn't tell you all he went through.
Mine was one of uncertainty in the future, reality is very present in everything. I did not think I would be a widow at the age of 53, you always know you will lose your spouse, but you never expect it so soon. There were many things that I now have to learn to do for myself that you take for granted. I still get angry and frustrated, but know that my Creator is always with me and will never fail me. This is my road, I am a survivor and will be okay. It is a daily battle with so many emotions whirling around. I am blessed to have such a wonderful and compassionate sister and mother. I also am surrounded by friends and my daughter and son.
Please take care of yourselves, men remember to have yourself checked on a yearly basis, don't wait until it is too late for you can never go back. Women remember to have yearly checks and mammograms. Please remember that there are others that will miss you, so get yourself checked early and often.
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~Resources~
Along the way I have discovered several resources and wish to pass them along, please if you have found your own resources let me know and I will post them also. The more help that we can discover to help each other the better the bond becomes between mankind.
Cancer Fund of America-they have many things available and some for free. If you are drinking Boost, they can provide it free the amount you receive is based on the kind of cancer you have.
1-800-578-5284
Mead Johnson-the makers of Boost. They are more than willing to mail you coupons for help with the purchase of Boost.
1-800-247-7893
American Cancer Society-your local Chapter of ACS. I called them and asked if they could help with prescription co-payments for my husband. They were very helpful and I bless each and every one of them. They have many programs for your needs, you just need to ask. If they can't help you directly they may be able to point you in the right direction.
The Toll Free number is
1-800-227-2345
They can direct you to the local Chapter nearest you.
Caregivers Marketplace (www.caregiversmarketplace.com)
Is a place where you can get rebates on items you buy and that can help also.
1-866-327-8340
I pray for all who suffer from this horrendous disease, for it can hit anywhere in the body. May you know the Creator is with you and knows your pain and suffering. He will be with you always. Please pray for a quick, merciful and peaceful release for my husband who desires nothing more than to go home to be with the Creator. There he will not have to worry about what this mortal body looks like, nor any other symptom that is plaguing him.
Blessed Be. There is a navbar to the left with many numbers on it that will take you to places that are linked with all different kinds of cancer, please take care of yourself.
bravenet.com