Greetings All,
As Dawn moves through this next phase of her journey, I know that many of you may be wanting to reach out, and may feel disconnected if you can't visit or call. I want to encourage each of you to use the blog to start sharing stories and thoughts about Dawn and what she means to you. This will be a gift in two ways. First, Dawn and her family can visit there and read about how much love is out there for Dawn. Secondly, it will help all of us to feel connected to each other. The people that love Dawn and are loved by Dawn come from a lot of different places in her life. It is nice to have a place where all of us can come together in celebration of Dawn.
Now, I know that many of us have never used and blog and it, frankly, is outside of our comfort zone. So, have courage, it is not hard. At the bottom of this posting is a small word - "comments." You drag your cursor onto that word and click on it. It will take you to another page where you can read what comments are there. If you want to leave a story or comment yourself, you will see a box in which to type it. Underneath the comment box are three buttons. Click the button marked "other." Enter your name beneath that. That is it. When you are satisfied with your comment, just hit the "publish" button and it will be added to the other comments. If you are getting this, I know that you "do" email, which means you can blog! Isn't that exciting!
So I invite each of you to use it to connect with Dawn and each other.
Keep up the prayers and the loving thoughts. If you want to join in the prayer circle, we will be meeting this coming Saturday, August 25, 10 -11 a.m., at my office, 2225 N.E. Alberta St. Suite C, Portland, OR 97211. If you have questions, please feel free to call me, 503-281-6015.
Love,
Myrna Yoder
Monday, August 20, 2007
A Band of Angels
I am sorry to report that Dawn is not regaining her strength as we hoped she might. She has continued to weaken. Hospice has been AMAZING. I have often said that it's like a band of angels descended on that house the day the Hospice nurses arrived. Dawn's mother told me that the Hospice doctor should have a set of wings, too. They have worked tirelessly to adjust Dawn's medications, assist with daily tasks, and allow Dawn to have wonderful moments, such as getting out to smell her roses, taking a leisurely bath, and having a massage.
I believe that she is making peace with all that is happening to her. It's all come on so quickly, and I know it's difficult for her (or any of us) to accept. She is handling it with such grace and humor and honest emotion.
I believe that she is making peace with all that is happening to her. It's all come on so quickly, and I know it's difficult for her (or any of us) to accept. She is handling it with such grace and humor and honest emotion.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Loving the Cards and Letters
Dawn's family has asked me to post this note.
Dawn LOVES to receive all of your good wishes. It makes her feel so loved and supported during this time. She and her family are feeling a little overwhelmed by the number of phone calls and visitors, however.
She is reading emails (although not responding), and she loves the cards she receives in the mail. You are also welcome to leave messages on this blog - they are more public, though.
I am sure that there will come a time when phone calls and visits will be more appropriate, but right now Dawn needs the uninterrupted rest that will help restore her energy.
As soon as things change, I'll post a note here!
Thank you,
Kristin
Dawn LOVES to receive all of your good wishes. It makes her feel so loved and supported during this time. She and her family are feeling a little overwhelmed by the number of phone calls and visitors, however.
She is reading emails (although not responding), and she loves the cards she receives in the mail. You are also welcome to leave messages on this blog - they are more public, though.
I am sure that there will come a time when phone calls and visits will be more appropriate, but right now Dawn needs the uninterrupted rest that will help restore her energy.
As soon as things change, I'll post a note here!
Thank you,
Kristin
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Every Step of The Way...
Dear Friends of Dawn,
This latest update is a tough one to write -- and will be hard to read too. Our friend Dawn has reached a crossroads in her cancer. She recently received the results from a scan indicating that she has more tumors than ever. This means that the chemotherapy was not doing what we all hoped it would. And, since the therapy was making her sick and weak, she has decided to discontinue chemo and try to gain some of her strength back. She will continue to pursue some alternative treatments, however her first goal is regaining her strength.
Her doctor ordered hospice for Dawn (Dawn prefers to call it "Home Health.") They have been wonderful! They brought her an adjustable bed, oxygen, a wheelchair (for walks around the block), and a real focus on her medication and how to minimize her ever-present nausea. Their goal is to make Dawn as comfortable as possible! This is a blessing for her family members who were feeling overwhelmed with the task of trying to keep her comfortable.
So you may ask, what about our miracle? What about the love and energy we have poured toward Dawn? I still keep the miracle of Dawn's restored health in my heart and hopes. And Dawn is surrounded by the miracle of totally accepting the abundant love of her family and her friends. She has acquaintances and people who don't even know her praying for her. All that love and prayer and energy has helped Dawn in every way.
What about visiting now? We all know how much Dawn loves people and talking, but we also know she needs lots of rest. Even though she can't have legions of visitors, Dawn loves to hear from folks---cards, email, a little surprise on her doorstep.
In addition, our help is still needed with home cooked meals - and help picking up her prescriptions as needed (located at Adventist Hospital - 102nd and Gladstone). Please send me an email you would like to be on either of these lists.
We can also continue to support Dawn with gardening and taking Murphy for walks whenever you're in the neighborhood. Stay tuned for ways we can help financially as well.
I don't know where this path is leading Dawn, but she knows we are all beside her - and loving her - every step of the way.
Sincerely,
Kristin Kelly
kkellyknits@gmail.com
This latest update is a tough one to write -- and will be hard to read too. Our friend Dawn has reached a crossroads in her cancer. She recently received the results from a scan indicating that she has more tumors than ever. This means that the chemotherapy was not doing what we all hoped it would. And, since the therapy was making her sick and weak, she has decided to discontinue chemo and try to gain some of her strength back. She will continue to pursue some alternative treatments, however her first goal is regaining her strength.
Her doctor ordered hospice for Dawn (Dawn prefers to call it "Home Health.") They have been wonderful! They brought her an adjustable bed, oxygen, a wheelchair (for walks around the block), and a real focus on her medication and how to minimize her ever-present nausea. Their goal is to make Dawn as comfortable as possible! This is a blessing for her family members who were feeling overwhelmed with the task of trying to keep her comfortable.
So you may ask, what about our miracle? What about the love and energy we have poured toward Dawn? I still keep the miracle of Dawn's restored health in my heart and hopes. And Dawn is surrounded by the miracle of totally accepting the abundant love of her family and her friends. She has acquaintances and people who don't even know her praying for her. All that love and prayer and energy has helped Dawn in every way.
What about visiting now? We all know how much Dawn loves people and talking, but we also know she needs lots of rest. Even though she can't have legions of visitors, Dawn loves to hear from folks---cards, email, a little surprise on her doorstep.
In addition, our help is still needed with home cooked meals - and help picking up her prescriptions as needed (located at Adventist Hospital - 102nd and Gladstone). Please send me an email you would like to be on either of these lists.
We can also continue to support Dawn with gardening and taking Murphy for walks whenever you're in the neighborhood. Stay tuned for ways we can help financially as well.
I don't know where this path is leading Dawn, but she knows we are all beside her - and loving her - every step of the way.
Sincerely,
Kristin Kelly
kkellyknits@gmail.com
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Overdue Update
Sorry it's been so long since the last post. Here is an update on Dawn's health, upcoming events, requests for help, and more.
Dawn's Health
Dawn has received two chemotherapy treatments. She'll receive one or two more treatments before they assess her progress and make a continuing plan. She is tolerating chemo pretty well. As is common, she has been pretty nauseous and dehydrated. She continues to sport a full head of hair and a positive attitude! She was approved for Medicaid and Food Stamps, and she was accepted as a member of the Oregon Health Plan. This is a huge relief! She will continue to work toward Social Security benefits as well. She continues to be so thankful for all the support she has felt from all.
Upcoming Events
Dawn's friend, Shelly Pittman, is organizing what we hope will be a powerful healing event for Dawn! She is calling it Dawn's Good Thought-a-Thon. The purpose of this event is to focus concentrated healing prayer/energy on Dawn for 48 continuous hours starting Friday, 7/27, at 10:00pm and ending Sunday, 7/29, at 10:00pm. Shelly is asking that we all participate by committing to a 1/2-hour time slot on two consecutive days. Your time will be spent at your own home. There is lots more information in the post below this one or email Shelly directly at shellypittman@comcast.net
In addition to the Good Thought-a-Thon, we are continuing our Prayer Circle every other Saturday morning. Updated times and dates are at right.
Requests for Help
Thanks to everyone who responded to me with offers of help! Dawn's family has been so grateful for the assistance. I am still looking for a few rides and meals in the coming weeks. Please let me know if you can be a driver or a cook for one of the following dates.
Wednesday, August 1, 3:30pm - Fluid replacement appointment (approx 2.5 hours)
Friday, August 3, 11:00am - Fluid replacement appointment (approx 2.5 hours)
Week of August 12-18 - Meal Delivery once sometime during this week
Week of August 19-25 - Meal Delivery once sometime during this week
Week of August 26-Sept 1 - Meal Delivery once sometime during this week.
If you happen to live close by, please feel free to putter around in Dawn's garden or take Murphy out for a little exercise! And don't hesitate to contact Dawn at mailto:pdbuffalo@juno.com
Sincerely,
Kristin Kelly
kkellyknits@gmail.com
Dawn's Health
Dawn has received two chemotherapy treatments. She'll receive one or two more treatments before they assess her progress and make a continuing plan. She is tolerating chemo pretty well. As is common, she has been pretty nauseous and dehydrated. She continues to sport a full head of hair and a positive attitude! She was approved for Medicaid and Food Stamps, and she was accepted as a member of the Oregon Health Plan. This is a huge relief! She will continue to work toward Social Security benefits as well. She continues to be so thankful for all the support she has felt from all.
Upcoming Events
Dawn's friend, Shelly Pittman, is organizing what we hope will be a powerful healing event for Dawn! She is calling it Dawn's Good Thought-a-Thon. The purpose of this event is to focus concentrated healing prayer/energy on Dawn for 48 continuous hours starting Friday, 7/27, at 10:00pm and ending Sunday, 7/29, at 10:00pm. Shelly is asking that we all participate by committing to a 1/2-hour time slot on two consecutive days. Your time will be spent at your own home. There is lots more information in the post below this one or email Shelly directly at shellypittman@comcast.net
In addition to the Good Thought-a-Thon, we are continuing our Prayer Circle every other Saturday morning. Updated times and dates are at right.
Requests for Help
Thanks to everyone who responded to me with offers of help! Dawn's family has been so grateful for the assistance. I am still looking for a few rides and meals in the coming weeks. Please let me know if you can be a driver or a cook for one of the following dates.
Wednesday, August 1, 3:30pm - Fluid replacement appointment (approx 2.5 hours)
Friday, August 3, 11:00am - Fluid replacement appointment (approx 2.5 hours)
Week of August 12-18 - Meal Delivery once sometime during this week
Week of August 19-25 - Meal Delivery once sometime during this week
Week of August 26-Sept 1 - Meal Delivery once sometime during this week.
If you happen to live close by, please feel free to putter around in Dawn's garden or take Murphy out for a little exercise! And don't hesitate to contact Dawn at mailto:pdbuffalo@juno.com
Sincerely,
Kristin Kelly
kkellyknits@gmail.com
A Message From Shelly Pittman
GOOD-THOUGHT-A-THON for DAWN
starting Friday, 7/27, at 10PM – ending Sunday, 7/29, at 10PM
Hello,
The intention of these 48 hours of continuous meditation / prayer / highest thoughts is to work with Dawn in a concentrated way to help her achieve her goal: Complete healing through fully and comfortably utilizing the chemo and other therapies she’s receiving, releasing the cancer, and rebuilding her energetic system.
Please choose a half hour that you can dedicate at the same time on each of the two days. Those of you who choose the hours between midnight and 6am have special thanks! Should more than one person speak for the same time period, that’s great, we just need to have every half hour covered by at least one person. If the unexpected arises and you can’t cover both days, it will be greatly appreciated if you ask one of your friends or family to work with Dawn at your designated time.
Asking for, sharing and sending vital energy and love to Dawn, and seeing the light of healing spreading far out around her are just a few ideas for the form your gift could take. Of course, whatever is in your mind and heart to send is by far the best.
Due to Dawn’s reduced immune response, we’re doing this remotely rather than in-person. By way of inspiration, imagination and intention we’ll connect with her and one another in a powerful way.
Please email or call in your preferred time to shellypittman@comcast.net or 503.309.4584. If you’re able to be flexible, please list your first and second time choices and leave your phone number so your specific time can be confirmed. Please respond by Thursday evening, 7/26.
Dawn said she guessed the good-thought-a-thon meant she shouldn’t run around, eat a bunch of ice cream and drink a lot of beer this coming weekend. Nice to know she’ll be doing her part, eh?!
Many thanks and blessings to all.
Available Times (only available times are shown here):
1:30pm-2pm Saturday & Sunday
2pm-2:30pm Saturday & Sunday
4:30pm-5pm Saturday & Sunday
5:30pm-6pm Saturday & Sunday
starting Friday, 7/27, at 10PM – ending Sunday, 7/29, at 10PM
Hello,
The intention of these 48 hours of continuous meditation / prayer / highest thoughts is to work with Dawn in a concentrated way to help her achieve her goal: Complete healing through fully and comfortably utilizing the chemo and other therapies she’s receiving, releasing the cancer, and rebuilding her energetic system.
Please choose a half hour that you can dedicate at the same time on each of the two days. Those of you who choose the hours between midnight and 6am have special thanks! Should more than one person speak for the same time period, that’s great, we just need to have every half hour covered by at least one person. If the unexpected arises and you can’t cover both days, it will be greatly appreciated if you ask one of your friends or family to work with Dawn at your designated time.
Asking for, sharing and sending vital energy and love to Dawn, and seeing the light of healing spreading far out around her are just a few ideas for the form your gift could take. Of course, whatever is in your mind and heart to send is by far the best.
Due to Dawn’s reduced immune response, we’re doing this remotely rather than in-person. By way of inspiration, imagination and intention we’ll connect with her and one another in a powerful way.
Please email or call in your preferred time to shellypittman@comcast.net or 503.309.4584. If you’re able to be flexible, please list your first and second time choices and leave your phone number so your specific time can be confirmed. Please respond by Thursday evening, 7/26.
Dawn said she guessed the good-thought-a-thon meant she shouldn’t run around, eat a bunch of ice cream and drink a lot of beer this coming weekend. Nice to know she’ll be doing her part, eh?!
Many thanks and blessings to all.
Available Times (only available times are shown here):
1:30pm-2pm Saturday & Sunday
2pm-2:30pm Saturday & Sunday
4:30pm-5pm Saturday & Sunday
5:30pm-6pm Saturday & Sunday
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Circle of Love
Last Saturday was our first Prayer Circle for Dawn. I would like to extend a very special thank you to Myrna for sharing her space and especially for guiding our combined visions and energies toward our common focus.
I'm also so thankful to all of amazing women who were present, and all the men and women who were praying for her from wherever they happened to be. Dawn is overwhelmed by the love and support she is feeling. She says often what a tremendous gift it's been to watch her friends and family come together in a new way!
Speaking of circles of love... Dawn has been doing some visualization of her own. She has a new charm necklace that goes wherever she does! It is a beautiful silver chain adorned with about 20 significant charms. Some were gifts from cherished friends or family members, one is an earring of a beloved cousin, even a lock of her own hair! These charms symbolize all the gifts cancer has brought her, and her desire to live! The necklace hangs over her whole chest - where the cancer dwells - to remind the cancer that there is no room for it! One charm is a quirky little cherubic angel with a heart in her hands. Dawn likes to imagine that the angel is flying around inside her and carrying the tumors out.
As for an update on Dawn's health, she is feeling pretty good today. She did a little gardening and went on a small outing to Knitting Circle (another circle, hmm). She had a very rough couple of days during the weekend, though. She just couldn't get the nausea under control. And, as a result, she became dehydrated. I believe the nausea is the hardest part of this for Dawn. It feels scary and out of control. She was able to get a new prescription that is keeping it under control this week, though. Yeah! This prescription cost about $700 - but worth every penny if it works!
Along those lines, Dawn was approved for Food Stamps and Medicaid. They (Dawn and her sister, Mary Beth) are applying for Medicare and a prescription plan next. Mary Beth has been managing most of this, since Dawn is a little groggy from all the meds.
Thank you to those who emailed me offering to help. I will be responding today and tomorrow with some requests, scheduling options, etc. Also, we will be continuing the Prayer for Dawn every other Saturday at the same time (see the calendar at right for the next date and time).
I'm also so thankful to all of amazing women who were present, and all the men and women who were praying for her from wherever they happened to be. Dawn is overwhelmed by the love and support she is feeling. She says often what a tremendous gift it's been to watch her friends and family come together in a new way!
Speaking of circles of love... Dawn has been doing some visualization of her own. She has a new charm necklace that goes wherever she does! It is a beautiful silver chain adorned with about 20 significant charms. Some were gifts from cherished friends or family members, one is an earring of a beloved cousin, even a lock of her own hair! These charms symbolize all the gifts cancer has brought her, and her desire to live! The necklace hangs over her whole chest - where the cancer dwells - to remind the cancer that there is no room for it! One charm is a quirky little cherubic angel with a heart in her hands. Dawn likes to imagine that the angel is flying around inside her and carrying the tumors out.
As for an update on Dawn's health, she is feeling pretty good today. She did a little gardening and went on a small outing to Knitting Circle (another circle, hmm). She had a very rough couple of days during the weekend, though. She just couldn't get the nausea under control. And, as a result, she became dehydrated. I believe the nausea is the hardest part of this for Dawn. It feels scary and out of control. She was able to get a new prescription that is keeping it under control this week, though. Yeah! This prescription cost about $700 - but worth every penny if it works!
Along those lines, Dawn was approved for Food Stamps and Medicaid. They (Dawn and her sister, Mary Beth) are applying for Medicare and a prescription plan next. Mary Beth has been managing most of this, since Dawn is a little groggy from all the meds.
Thank you to those who emailed me offering to help. I will be responding today and tomorrow with some requests, scheduling options, etc. Also, we will be continuing the Prayer for Dawn every other Saturday at the same time (see the calendar at right for the next date and time).
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