Soft Launch of my blog

Trying out my own blog...announced here first.

Read about me at: http://jenostrich.blogspot.com/

Blog, Take Two

I think I'm going to start my own blog. I've found this whole experience somewhat therapeutic while also reconnecting with my family members who live afar as well as my mom's dear friends.

So I gotta find some time to set it up but I'll make sure I post the new blog address here in case anyone is checking back, and of course on facebook and email.

My life isn't really all that interesting but many seem to be interested in it these days--so now you'll get to read all about it :)

Stay tuned.

Reality Check

Today I returned to work. A tad weird and unsettling. The whole question of "am I ready for this?" But after breakfast with my awesome boss and a receiving line of hugs as I entered, I walked into my office to find balloons floating around, flowers, a new candle and home made cupcakes (mmmmm). How nice is that?! And I realized I was nervous over nothing...and it's great to be returning to such a warm and welcoming group. The tough part was when I wanted to call my Mom to tell her how great my team is. As the days pass and the urges increase b/c the list of things I wish I could share with her is piling up, it's tough. But I continue to resign myself to "one day at a time" and go from there.

Off to sushi with a friend/co-worker...and just like that, through another day.

Here's lookin at ya!

Among your favorite places...where we once stood together. I took in the view today and smiled back thinking of you, Mom. I love you.

Message from the Battleground

Life is like "WAR" in a sense. I do not think we lost the war but we did loose a Battle. In that Battle we lost one "Soldier, our Mom, Wife and best Friend. It is definitely not easy being on the Battleground watching the smoke still rise, but i think this only makes us stronger to keep prepared for WAR and stronger for the next Battle. Although the smoke is still rising on the Battleground, I will continue to browse around to keep any flames from flaring up. I guess this means a trip out west.

Last night the girls and I went up to the Flock leader house to have a traditional steak dinner.
Today Margaret, Marissa and I are visiting a farm in southern Chester county to check out baby Lambs that were just born.

Shawn

I wish I could tell ya

I imagined on my first day back in LA I'd want to tell my mom how great the weather is and even post a picture of the ocean, my favorite view, from the place I took here when she came to visit. And I do. But what I really wish I could tell her is that I stumbled upon these pillows yesterday--with an Ostrich on it!!! I know she'd be having me buy them ASAP if she was here. So I think I may have to go back to the store and do just that. But for now, I just wanted to share them with anyone who's still reading...as those who know my mom well, know she would LOVE these pillows.

I'd like to think of it as a sign...she's finding ways to pop up in/around LA already and I'm just back for a day. And I guess that's what gets ya through.

Smiles everyone, today wasn't so bad.

Love,

jen

From the battleground to the homefront

I feel like I went to war. Not a “typical” war of course where my life is threatened on a daily basis. But a period of time that is so intense, where you see and do things that most people should never have to see or do in a lifetime. Like watch your mother fight for her life on a daily basis. Or see her literally take her last breath, going from warm to cold.

I feel like I went to war. I left LA and went to Philadelphia for what became a 6 week war. It was a much longer trip than I anticipated when I first came home but in many ways it was the longest and shortest 6 weeks of my life. And in those 6 weeks I bonded with my family in a way I never knew was possible. We found strength in each other and ourselves that we would’ve never known possible before this tragic time.

I feel like I went to war and have since been relocated back “home” but my wounded soldiers are still so near the battlefield where we all once stood. I’m leaving behind my “blood brothers,” my fearless flock leader and the smiles of the most amazing kids in the world. I just hope I'm not leaving behind my strength.

I feel like I went to war. And now it’s time to return to "life." It will never be the same, but I’m alive, I’m grateful and if for nothing else, I will live life to the fullest, just as my Mom would want. I have to.

Albert's Speech

I'd like to thank everyone for spending the time following Kate's journey on this blog. We wish it had a different ending. And thanks to all for attending the service and shiva and for the outpours of cards and warm sentiments.

For those of you who could not make the service, below is the speech I read for my wife.

-- Albert

My Kate,

I have known Kate over 45 years.

I can remember the first time that I saw her since high school, I recall thinking what was wrong with me for not knowing her sooner. After a few dates that I had with her I had to join the Marine Corp. While in the corps I would receive letters from her every day. I knew then she was the girl that I would marry.

That was the best decision I made in my entire life. True we had our arguments, but they seem to have made our closeness even stronger.

She raised our three children with her love of life and happiness, respect to others and how important it is to be truthful.

The two of us had a very special closeness, we loved to be together, travel, play golf, and right down to helping each other with cleaning our home and our vacation home, which we both loved.

Not only was she my wife she was my buddy, a friendship that I will never be able to replace.

Since January 8, 2010 seeing her actually dying, which I believed she knew, in front of me was the most torture any one can handle. But when I would come into the hospital to see her, I’d say hello and I love you and she would open her big brown eyes with joy and while you could barely read her weak lips, she would still say, I love you too.

It was a great honor to know Kate while she was with us, she’s the life of the party. And it will be a greater honor for those who will have the opportunity to meet and play golf with her in her next life. Look out golfers because she is ready. Her request was to be dressed in her best golf outfit along with her putter.

And I say one more time- I Love you Kate!

I thank you all for coming to help us remember and honor Kate.

Shawn's Speech

I again want to thank all my family and friends for the support they are giving.
They say the pain will get easier in time. I can not imagine a second, minute or hour where its going to be easy with out Mom. What I do know is the FLOCK will stick together.

SPEECH:
I never thought in a million years that I would be standing up on this Bima for the reason I am. I’m usually up here to be the Bima guest reading announcements or giving a power point presentation to the congregation. .

Courage – The quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, pain without fear; bravery

Love – A feeling of warm personal attachment or deep affection, as for a parent, child, or friend.

Strength – The quality or state of being strong; bodily or muscular power.

Dignity – nobility or elevation of character; worthiness, dignity of sentiments,

Loyal – Faithful to any leader, party, or cause, or to any person or thing conceived as deserving fidelity; a loyal friend.

These are only a few words that fit my mom.

Mother and I had so many similarities, we love to chat, we love to go on walks, Spending time together in the green house taught me everything I know about plants, mom showed me how to cook, how to love, how to respect. Mom could dance and dance for a long time but couldn't’t get down like me.
My mom was an extremely protective mother for her family.
I’ll never forget how much fun mom and I had when I was dads replacement in couples golf. Dad was recovering from neck issues. The competitive edge we both brought to the game got us third place. While mom was not electronically inclined, she did learn quickly how to text message from the cell phone. So this past October and November, mom would send me daily text messages about all the deer in the neighborhood she saw on her morning walk, their location, a buck or a doe, how many points, if they are in dembi or up at her house.

Some interesting facts-
•15,300 lunch sandwiches mom maid for my dad, brother and I, not including Jen.
• 15,000 gourmet dinners were cooked for my dad.
• Technically speaking we refer to several ostriches grouped together as a Herd not a Flock, but I like flock better.
• Ostriches typically eat plants, roots and seeds. My mom loved to grow plants, was proud of her roots and helped put the seed in me to make me the man I am today.
• Ostriches produce the strongest commercially available leather in the world. This explains how my mom was such a strong person and was able fight so hard to the end.
• Lastly, Ostriches do not bury there head in the sand.

Experiencing this incomprehensible tragedy, I am again reminded of how strong my family’s dignity, love, courage, and strength is. The power of family and friends is one of the most amazing and important things in the world to me. I hope and pray that this will make me and all of us even stronger and further motivate each and every one of us to love and cherish what you have this given moment.

Shawn David Ostrich

For My Mom......

Its been almost a week and we still can't believe my mom is no longer with us. She was larger then life and I can still feel her energy and hear her voice. It has been comforting to know she will be missed by so many. As a tribute to her, here are the words I spoke at the funeral.....

Jake


Good morning. Those of you who know me, know I am a man of few words. But I could not let this day pass without sharing some thoughts about my beloved mother, Kate.

My story combines the past and the present and dates back to 1988, my senior year in high school. During those years, I was an avid lacrosse player, playing for Radnor. My mom never missed a game, and she was our biggest, loudest cheering fan. Many times the coach would say, and I quote, “Mrs. O, Mrs. O please stand back a little bit you are too far out on the field.” I can still hear her screaming with all her might, “get them guys” “don’t let them the score”. Her voice, along with her beautiful heart were filled with HOPE, PERSISTENCE, and DETERMINATION! It didn’t take long for Mrs. O to be the voice of our team. I loved that my mom would always include everyone, wherever she was, and that included each and every one of my teammates.

During the last few hours I spent with her in the hospital I made a direct connection between the lacrosse field and my mother’s brave fight against the disease that was taking over her body. That same heart that was filled with HOPE, PERSISTANCE, and DETERMINATION that cheered for us on the lacrosse field, was the same heart that gave her the strength to fight her fight over this last month. Although her organs might have failed her in the end, it was her heart that never skipped a beat. That was one of the qualities I loved most about her and hope to pass onto my children. Mom, be at peace and know that Stephanie, Drew, Alex, Sophie and I will love and miss and you always!

Jen's Speech

We thought for those of you who were not part of the service we could share the things we read about Kate. We will each post our own, so for now, here is mine (for the lyrics at the end, I actually played the song Forever Young, I knew my mom would want the music playing!).

Dear Mom,

Among the many things I will always cherish, our written sentiments are on the top of my list. You were always the first card I received in the mail no matter the holiday--Halloween, valentine’s day or my birthday. And each time I came back to your house to visit, there was always a note left in my bedroom welcoming me and then I started leaving you notes back at the end of my visits so you’d find them when you next came up to my room. And there are just so many other notes in between—thank yous, cards that just said how much you loved me or were proud of me and of course the cards we recently exchanged after our fun-filled weekend in LA.

So here is one more written sentiment to add to our collection. I could go on and on with stories and memories but instead, in this letter I want to tell you some of the many things I love and honor about you, specifically 8 things you’ve taught me that I promise to never lose sight of.

You taught me what true friendship is—how to know when you have it and how to hold onto it.

You always said if I could count my true best friends on one hand to consider that lucky. Many friends would come and go in my life you said, but if there were a few that always remained, I’d be blessed. You helped me see that those friends would be the most loyal and trustworthy and you taught me that those traits are invaluable. You’ve helped me be the best friend I possibly can to those around me.

You taught me that honesty and trust prevail.

You always said that you’ll trust someone until they give you a reason not to, and then trust has to be earned back. I’ll never forget how that theory got tested when I lied to you in high school about where I was going and you found out I was at a party and boy if you didn’t waste time calling the party and ultimately showing up (of course I was already making a b-line home to try and sneak back into bed). But beyond that, you helped me see that people deserve the benefit of the doubt, that life is too short to live through mistrust. But if something changes that, then you must work together to regain that trust.

You taught me that the simplest things in life are the most meaningful.

You always said you didn’t care about gifts, that if I made the effort to pick out a card for you and write a nice note that’s all you wanted. You loved spending time with your family—to you, that’s so much of what life was about. So as I matured, I learned to appreciate our simple things together that much more--the trips to the mall, the lunches, the manicures, the morning phone calls, the texts and emails that we’d share when we thought of something to tell one another or just the ones that said “ you go girl, I love you.”

You taught me about give and take—that you don’t give to get, and acts of love and kindness shouldn’t come with expectation.

You are one of the most generous people I know. The love and devotion you give to your family and friends are immeasurable. And how you have showered all of us and your grandkids with everything we could ever want. You always said you didn’t grow up with much and it made you so happy to be able to give us things you never had. And through all of that, it was never about you needing or wanting something in return, you were fulfilled just by the sheer act of being kind.

You taught me life is best lived at its fullest.

If there’s one thing for sure, Mom, you enjoyed yourself. You weren’t afraid to indulge in your favorite things (and you always said you were worse when we were together) whether it be a hunk of candy, a glass of Pinot Grigio or a good dinner out. And you always had fun. Give you a dance floor, a microphone, a golf club, a home filled with hungry kids, a beautiful day outside, anything. You bring so much energy to all you do, you truly lived life to the fullest. And in honor of you, I will always do the same.

You taught me what it means to be wise.

You thought sometimes because you didn’t work in the “corporate world” and operate computers, etc that you weren’t as smart as some. But the things I’ve learned from you are among the most significant and more than any professor, classroom or job could ever teach me. The things I share with you in this letter and millions of other things you’ve taught me along the way. Just like your mother, my Nana, you are wise. And I can only hope that I’ll be as wise as you some day.

You taught me what it means to be unselfish.

As a mother, a wife, a grandmother, and friend—you always put others ahead of yourself. If someone needed something, they didn’t even need to ask and you’d be there. You worried and cared to such an incredible degree if those around you were happy and fulfilled and you did everything you could to ensure it stayed that way. You never put yourself ahead of others. You gave so much of yourself to others and especially me. Beyond anyone else in my entire life, I always knew you were there for me, no matter what. And that’s why when it came down to it, me and my life became secondary and there was no place else I would’ve ever been than right by your side during this past month, because you would’ve been right by mine. You’re my #1.

Finally, you taught me what unconditional love is.

From everything I mentioned above and for everything you’ve done for me throughout my life, it’s clear that you love me unconditionally. But I feel I really put our love to a test when I told you I wanted to move out to California to find my own path, to paint a bright new canvas for myself. You were none too pleased about it when I first mentioned it and I think part of you was hoping I’d never actually do it. But just as you taught me to never give up on my dreams, I made this dream a reality. And it was my 33^rd birthday, about 6 weeks before I moved that I realized once again how truly amazing of a mother you are.

You had me over for my birthday dinner, with ice cream cake of course, and you showered me with a big bag of gifts. Filled in that bag was all things Philadelphia—Eagles, Phillies, a sticker for my soon to be new car, and other fun things for my new apartment so I’d never forget where I came from. And then at the bottom of the bag was a ring box. And in that box was one of your gorgeous pieces of jewelry that Dad had given you and that I always loved and you wanted to hand down to me. You told me you wanted to watch me wear it in good health, while you were still on this earth and you wanted a part of you to always be with me even if more miles would now be between us.

It was at that moment that I realized that while you were the person I knew I was hurting the most by making this move and going so far, you truly were my biggest supporter. And that’s when I understood how unconditional your love was for me. I remember I sent you an email to that effect a few days after my birthday just telling you how moved I was and how incredible you are. And you replied:

“Hi Jen, just read your letter. You deserve everything I gave u and more. I will always save this letter, very touching, your mommy always ooxx”

And ever since I moved away, you’ve been my biggest cheerleader—so proud of the move I made and the life I created. And the visit we shared in LA together this past October was the best gift you could have ever given me, I just so wish it wasn’t our last.

Before I end my letter to you Mom, I have one closing sentiment. On a very special day in my life, my Bat Mitzvah, you read to me the words of Rod Stewart’s song, Forever Young. And ever since then it’s been “our song.”

I remember running on the beach a few months ago and the song came on my iPod and I re-listened to the words and realized with the new found distance between us the words took on an even greater meaning. When I said that to you, you agreed, as you too had recently heard the song.

Well as I’m here now writing you this letter, the song has now taken on an even more significant meaning. So I’ll play the song for you, and I’ll say to you, Mom, you will always be my #1, you’ll remain forever young in my heart.

I love you.

jen

FOREVER YOUNG, Rod Stewart

May the good Lord be with you

Down every road you roam

And may sunshine and happiness

surround you when you're far from home

And may you grow to be proud

Dignified and true

And do unto others

As you'd have done to you

Be courageous and be brave

And in my heart you'll always stay

Forever Young, Forever Young

Forever Young, Forever Young

May good fortune be with you

May your guiding light be strong

Build a stairway to heaven

with a prince or a vagabond

And may you never love in vain

and in my heart you will remain

Forever Young, Forever Young

Forever Young, Forever Young

Forever Young

Forever Young

And when you finally fly away

I'll be hoping that I served you well

For all the wisdom of a lifetime

No one can ever tell

But whatever road you choose

I'm right behind you, win or lose

Forever Young, Forever Young

Forever Young ,Forever Young

Forever Young, Forever Young

For, Forever Young, Forever Young

We Sent Kate off in Style

Yesterday was a tough day.

But I know my Mom is somewhere so utterly honored and humbled by all of the kind words said about her and the outpours of people that came to her service and shiva. She truly is loved by so many and just hope she was able to look down on the entire thing and see how she'll be missed.

We encourage you to keep her spirit alive through memories and stories. If you join us at Shiva, you can write in the memory book we have for her or if you stop by the house anytime thereafter, just ask to see the memory book so you too can share a story.

OR, please feel free to write things on this blog. We can always print things out for her memory book. And in the upcoming days and weeks, this blog can certainly help get us all through by sharing all the things we know, love and remember about Kate.

We've so enjoyed having this blog to connect with all of you--we share someone very special in common, my Mom, so for me it would mean a lot to still be able to share things here.

Much love,

jen

Hotbird's new journey

We share with great sadness that our beloved Mother & Wife, Kate, passed away peacefully today at 1:15pm. She was surrounded by Albert, Jen, Jake & Stephanie, and Shawn & Lisa as she passed. She was comfortable and at ease. While we are heartbroken at having to say goodbye, it brings us comfort to know she is now at peace.

The funeral will be held this Monday, February 15th at 9:30am at Temple Brith Achim.

Address: 481 S. Gulph Road, King of Prussia PA 19406

www.brithachim.org

The family will be observing shiva at the Ostrich residence Monday & Tuesday evening starting around 6:30pm.

Address: 625 County Line Road, Radnor PA 19087

In lieu of flowers the family requests that you please make a donation in Kate's honor to the American Cancer Society.

Address: P.O. Box 22718 Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718

www.cancer.org/docroot/home/index.asp

We love you Hotbird, let your new journey begin.

A time for goodbyes

We learned today that Mom’s liver is going into failure and she will soon drift off into a sleep-induced coma. We gathered around her tonight and all said our goodbyes and we had the Rabbi sing a special song to her. Mom was in and out while we were all saying our final thoughts but I just know she heard every bit of it and found the comfort she needed to go to her final resting place. I sit by her side as I type to ensure she knows she's not alone during this time.

The family is beginning to plan for the funeral. In keeping with Jewish tradition, the service will fall one-two days after the death and will be followed by sitting shiva. We suspect that will be sometime this coming week. Please keep checking the blog as this will be where we’ll share the details (date/time/place). Any family and friends are welcome to attend the service.

We can’t thank you enough for the outpours of love and support—it truly meant the world to my Mom to hear from all of her favorite people, and it certainly kept all of us going.

With love,

jen

Dear Mom

Look at the outpours of love and support you have on this blog, the cards that are overflowing out of your room, the pretty pictures the kids have sent you (so many that nurses ask if you're a teacher!), and all the flowers that have come and gone. You are so loved.

And look at what you've been through this past month. More than many will ever endure in a lifetime. Your surgeon said you're tougher than most he's seen when faced with the challenges you were given. You are so strong.

And look at your smile. Not one of us can imagine or know how weak and sick you must feel but even on your "bad days" you still give us that smile that we all know and love. Or you point with that finger that we all know well when you're trying to tell us something. Or you roll those big brown eyes at us. You are so beautiful.

You have taught me so much in life, wisdom that I'll always carry and pass on to others. You have always, always been by my side. You are my best friend.

And now you are tired and sick. And it's ok if you want to rest your eyes, I'll be there when you open them. You deserve peace and comfort and I promise I'll give that to you in spades, however I can, just as you would do for me. I'll always be with you.

Just always remember--you are my #1 and you will always be my hero.

I love you, mommy.

Your daughter

I love the good days

Hi everyone,

I wanted to share some thoughts today as I sit here with Mom. I arrived at my daily time of 11am and she was up, alert and sitting in her chair! She looks great--we requested she get a good hair wash and "style" from the night nurse and bless her soul, she even tried to make mom's hair look like it does in all of her photos. Not sure Mom would agree, but it works.

So today we spend the day together--watching the snow fall, listening to the 24 hour coverage of the storm on the TV (which mom is already annoyed with--give us our morning tv shows!), and we chat--I read her cards and some of the posts on the blog and we pass the time together.

For now we're focused on working on weaning down the ventilator so we can go home--that's our collective goal and Mom is all for it. So we'll remain positive and focused on that. And for every minute in between we'll cherish each other and all of you.

Thanks again for the outpours of calls, cards, comments--we love it all. We'll likely be in this same room until we're able to leave in case you want to send a card:

Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania

Rhoads Building, Room 5018

3400 Spruce Street

Philadelphia, PA 19104

Love to all,

jen

Kate's current status

It saddens us to have to write this update as we all have fought so hard and come so far---ESPECIALLY Mom. But unfortunately God has other plans.

We met with Mom's team of doctors last night and received the unfortunate news that her Cancer is aggressively spreading. It is currently throughout her brain and into her bone marrow. With such news the doctors explained that even if Mom was healthy enough to try chemotherapy in the next few weeks, there currently isn't a successful treatment for Colon Cancer that's matasisized to the brain.

She is still struggling with her breathing so she now has a tracheotomy to help her. We hope she will improve some so we can hear her talk again and ideally take her home to rest comfortably, but the doctors say that we may not have that chance.

For now, her immediate family is by her side and ensuring she's comfortable and at ease. We are gauging the situation day by day and when the time comes to make the decision about her living will, we will have to say goodbye.

We continue to share everyone's love and prayers with Mom as she's able to communicate with us through head nods and hand motions. We can't thank you enough for your continued support and I personally want to emphasize how thankful my Mom is. If the situation were different, she'd be hand writing each and every one of you a personal note (not an email!). :)

Stay tuned to the blog for next steps, we are imaging we'll need to say our goodbyes within the upcoming weeks, not months. We will certainly let everyone know when the time comes and we will post all of the information here on the blog for the service details.

Thanks again and much, much love to all. God bless.

Jen, Albert, Jake, Shawn, Lisa & Steph

20 Blocks, 20 Inches of Snow, 1 Amazing MOM!

Philadelphia might be in snow emergency but nothing will stop us from helping mom get through this difficult fight. Unfortunately, mom had her breathing tube reinserted early this morning. While her pneumonia seems to be slowly improving, her oxygen levels still aren't ideal. The nurses and doctors are working around the clock here to stay ahead of every possible thing that could be going on. So we remain in the ICU until we know everything is stable. I can't believe it is day 16 in this hospital, who would have thought, especially my mom--she hates doctors!!! But here we are. Mom misses everyone, especially her 6 grandkids!!

I know many of you would love to see to Kate but while she is in the ICU it is best we don't have visitors in or out. She is just not up for it yet. But we continue to share your cards, comments and sentiments so don't hold back. So for now, keep praying and cherish life. Tell someone you love them, give a hug, forgive someone, raise a glass, be happy. That's what mom wants for all of us. I love you all, you give me the strength I need each and every day.

xoxox,

Jen

Today is gonna be a good day.

I'm getting ready for my daily routine of heading down highway 76 to see Mom as soon as the visiting hours start in the ICU. And I have a feeling today is going to be a good day.

Mom had GREAT progress yesterday, she was able to get her breathing tube removed! It's still a bit TBD if it will stay out for good as it's taking a lot of energy still for Mom to keep her breathing regular, so we're trying to not celebrate prematurely. But she did good throughout the night which we hope is a good indicator for the tube staying out!

Mom's still not talking much because it takes a lot of energy that she's saving for breathing and fighting (and her throat is a bit soar from having that damn tube). But when I packed up my bags last night and gave her a kiss goodnight, I got an extra special treat. I've been saying to her each night "see you tomorrow, same place, same time, we have a date" and last night I said to her "same time same place" and she nodded and said "we have a date, I love you jen." I never knew how much hearing those words (or any words) out of her mouth would mean to me until that very moment.

So with that, I'm gonna say again, today is gonna be a good day. I can't wait to pop into mom's room with a big smile. I tell her she's my hero and each day that she fights I mean it that much more.

I feel we're turning the corner, keep the prayers and sentiments coming. We love them all and all of you!

Hugs,

jen

A "WISH"

Mom,

I WISH I could take your place and breathe for you so you can relax.
I WISH I could take all the pain for you so you don't have to click the button.
I WISH for you to continue this FIGHT.
I WISH for you to come home soon to watch the birds on the new feeder I put up for you.
I WISH that God continues to give you and our family the strength, energy and love that we have.

We might have lost round 1 because of a technicality (the leak). I feel confident with the coaching that Dad, Jake, Jen, Steph, Lisa, Family, friends and I will give you, your going to take over in round 2. Keep fighting the "FIGHT".

Shawn David Ostrich

Upswing

It's been 24 hours since I've seen mom and I must say that things are really on the upswing!! She's really starting to breathe more on her own and they're thinking about removing the tube tomorrow. I also had the privilege of meeting "dearest Jeremy" for the first time as he routinely visits mom in her room. We all can't wait until mom can talk with us and also tell us how much she loves all the pictures that the kids have made for her.

Here's to talking to mom tomorrow!

Jake

Slowly turning the corner

Quick report from the ICU. The Docs seem pleased today with Mom's progress. While we're not out of the woods yet and will remain in ICU for now, things are trending the right direction. Mom has made good progress with her breathing and her vital signs are more in check now.

We've had some good chats today--of course she just nods and now she spells things out with her fingers. I usually can guess what she's saying after one or two tries :)

Earlier today we put on some spa music and gave her a leg and foot massage. That got a thumbs up! Dad and I are just sitting quietly with her now as the evening winds down.

Here's to more positive news coming each day!!

Love to all,

jen

Weekend Wind Down

Good evening,

We don't have much to report but I can imagine you're all checking in and wondering so wanted to at least put up a new post. Kate is still in ICU and will be for probably 2-3 more days. The process of treating the Pneumonia and simultaneously weaning her off of the breathing tube is a very slow process. So she will remain in the ICU until the Docs are happy with the progress. It's really the best place for her right now and we feel most comfortable knowing she's being cared for 24/7 by an advanced critical care team.

While they have her somewhat sedated to keep her comfortable, she does know we are there and when she's awake we can chat with her and we get head nods and hand waves. Today we told her Albert decided to not shave until his Wife Kate returns home. And with that news her big brown eyes popped open to check out her Alby O. Dad's facial hair growth has also been a somewhat slow process, but as it continues to come in we plan to post pictures on the blog :)

On a final note, I just want to say thank god for all of our family and friends. Personally, I couldn't imagine dealing with this without the ongoing support and companionship of my Dad, 2 big brothers and loving sister in laws--we've really come together as one strong family unit. And to top it off, my nieces and nephews remind me every day what life is all about. And so each day I return to my Mom's bedside I'm able to bring her enough strength to cover the both of us so she can keep fighting. And right now, that's my only goal in life--to get my Mom back to herself and home with her family.

Stay tuned for more updates throughout the week. And once again, thanks so, so much for all of your love and support.

Much love,

jen

Weekend Update

Hi everyone,

We wanted to update you where things stand. Unfortunately Kate got moved into ICU in the middle of the night because her breathing continued to be labored and decline. They Drs confirmed last night that Pneumonia has developed which is the cause of her ongoing struggle to get enough oxygen.

The upside of the ICU is she is now being closely monitored around the clock and they are keeping her very comfortable. The Docs think she will be in the ICU at least through the weekend and possibly and day or two beyond.

Your prayers and sentiments are keeping us going. And this Ostrich flock has been huddled together since the morning and we plan to be through the weekend as we help Mom turn the corner.

Stay tuned, as things progress we'll keep you posted.

Much much much love to all.

jen

We made this for you in our front window. We Love you!!!!!
Love, Margaret and Marissa

Temporarily Down, but by NO Means Out!!

Hi all-

Just wanted to drop an update as we head into the weekend as it may be a long one for us. Kate is fighting and fighting hard and believe me, every note, post, email, text and card is keeping her fighting. But she has had 2 surgeries now and her body is still trying to adjust. So she is restricted to rest while the Docs watch her very closely to ensure she doesn't develop an infection or any other complications.

The immediate family plans to be by her side around the clock over the next few days--we're sitting with her in shifts to ensure we hear all that's going on and meet any of Kate's requests (ice chips are like gold so when she asks, we deliver!).

We will update the blog as we know more and please continue to check it. Please understand if we are unable to return an email, text or phone call right away--this is hard for everyone and we're really relying on the blog as the best way to keep everyone informed. We love hearing the support but sometimes, out of sheer exhaustion, we're just unable to get back to everyone. Our #1 focus is Kate so that's what we'll be up to for the next few days.

We truly can't thank everyone enough for the ongoing support. Mom has more cards and flowers in her room than anyone in the hall I think! And she loves each and every one of them. We will get through this, we have no doubt. We just need to keep the faith and the strength. And thanks to you, we're feeling both in spades.

We love you all!!!!!!

Albert, Jen, Jake, Stephanie, Lisa and Shawn

Back to Silverstein

Mom was moved out of ICU this AM and back onto the 12th floor of Silverstein Building, Room #1218. We're in a nice sunny room overlooking the busy intersection of CHOP & the new Penn Pearlman Center.

Mom is resting comfortably and doing great! I'm just hanging by her side as she sleeps--she's very tired. I'm so proud of her--it's been a hell of a 48 hours yet she still has her spunk. She already got after me to unwrap her flowers and see who they were from :)

Doctors are saying another week in the hospital and then we can move her home but she'll likely need some care there to keep her on track to 100% recovery. We'll keep you posted but for now rest assured that she's on the mend! And for now, that's good enough for me as my new motto is one day at a time.

Thanks again for all of the comments on the blog and the cards, once Mom wakes up a bit I can't wait to read them all to her.

Love to all,

jen

A Setback.......

Hi Folks:

Sometimes in life it feels like you take two steps forward and one step back. Today was one of those days.

Kate had to go back into surgery this morning to repair a leak in the colon that was filling her abdomen with fluid and air. This could be a potentially very dangerous situation. Thankfully, they identified a problem overnight and she was first on the list this morning! Surgery took less then an hour and our fine doc, Doctor Drebin, said she came through with flying colors. She will spend one or two days in intensive care so they can keep a very close eye on her and then she will move back to 12 Silverstein (our home away from home this week:) She will most likely have to be in the hospital for another 5 to 7 days. We are looking forward to getting her home as soon as possible.

Keep the love and prayers coming. Every little bit helps! One day at a time has a whole new meaning for me.

We will be sure to post how she is coming along so check back soon.....

Hugs,
Stephanie

No news is good news!

Hi everyone,

Just wanted to drop a quick post to say we're still on the road to recovery. Mom's goals continue to be walking, sitting up as much as she can, eating and drinking fluids. So we're cheering her on around the clock and she's doing great!

Thanks for all of the comments--keep 'em coming!!! We'll continue to post as we have news, but if we skip a day no need to worry we're likely just getting some much needed rest ourselves :)

We're looking at a Thursday discharge but once we know for sure we'll let you know.

Thanks again and love to all!!!

jen

HOLD THAT SMILE

After four attempts teaching Dad how to use the iPhone camera, Mom was still able to hold a beautiful smile. It's great to see the team work of our family! Oh by the way, Chef Shawn is planning another round of 5 star cooking (on the grill) for moms return home.

Love you Mom,

SDO

Another Milestone Reached....

All I can say is, "WHAT A DAY"!

I arrived at the hospital early this morning to find out KO finally had a good nights sleep in her private quarters. After overdoing it a bit, she has been getting a lot of rest and it showed.

If progress was slow yesterday, today it was in overdrive! First up, out came the epidural. Time for good ol' IV pain meds. Next we said ba-bye to the catheter (sorry if thats TMI, but I gotta share the excitement). She was sipping on the water and taking little bites of Jell0. We were on a roll.....until Nurse Marta told us she had to get in the chair and later start walking.

KO was NOT happy about this but she pumped on the pain button and up she sat with her legs over the bed. After a few moments rest with some assistance from lovely nurse Marta she was officially in the chair. This was big! This was great! We were thrilled! But it was shortlived as we were told the next order of business was walking.

Ok now I have a problem on my hands. KO does not feel up to walking she tells me. She is having hot flashes, she is feeling nauseaus and lightheaded, she states that although she knows she has to walk she just doesn't think she can do it!! Oy vey I think to myself, what's a daughter in law to do??? All I can say is thank goodness for the IPHONE. It came to the rescue. With my handy application Pandora, I put on new age/spa music. I gave her a scalp massage We were breathing in through our nose and out through our mouth, we were thinking positive thoughts. In short we were in the zone and CHILLAXING!! Then the most amazing thing happened, Nurse Marta told us the time had come to make our move and KO got up and slowly, ever so slowly and started WALKING! She walked herself right out of the room and up and back down the hallway! I'm cheering, all the aides in the hallway are cheering as shouts of "you go girl!" were flying through the air! I was smiling, I was kvelling, I was thrilled to see what courage and determination look like! KO probably didn't hear/see any of this cause she was concentrating so hard on putting one foot in front of the other.

It was a joyous day! The little things mean a lot. I can't wait to see what tommorrow brings.

Until next time,

xoxoxoxo
Stephanie

Moving On Up!

Well, Dearest Jeremy is now truly the #1 nurse. Not only did he score us a recliner (makes all the difference for us visitors) but he was able to get Mom moved into her own room (#1211) so she could have less noise and interruptions sans roommate. Here is Mom happy in her new digs with her Albs and all her lovely flowers, cards and pictures.

We're settling in now, her and me, with some quiet time and TV. Me in my recliner and Mom in her cozy bed.

Tomorrow we gear up for another trip out of the bed!

Good night and love to all!!

jen

Weekend Prescription: REST

Nurse Jeremy (known as Dearest Jeremy) says Kate needs less chatting and more rest :) So while she loves her visits and phone calls and seeing and hearing from everyone, this weekend we're going to keep that to a minimum so she can catch up on some much needed sleep.

She does love hearing the emails and blog comments so feel free to send a message...we read them to her each day. For now we're likely here until Wednesday or so but our exact discharge date is still TBD while we see how the next few days go.

The Drs all say she's right on target and doing great. We just need her to rest up so she heals and builds her body up for the next fight.

I can't say enough that your ongoing support and love is so amazing. It's keeping us all going for sure.

Much love,

jen

THE FIGHT

Mother, an inspiring person once told me you have to "fight the fight". Well we are fighting and are almost through round one. After getting knocked down hard, you got back up! Soon we will be thinking about round two. I want you to know i will never leave your corner. No matter how many times you get knocked down i will be there to help you get up.

Love Shawn

Kate's first "walk"

Today has been a good day! I can't believe how much better my Mom looks--it's remarkable. Her color is back and today she even got up outta bed!

I arrived about 7am to enjoy my hot tea with her. She was wide awake and feeling good. We chatted up a storm and soon after we met her day nurse, Jeremy. Well with one look at him (in the pics with mom) Mom and I decided it'd be best I hang around for the day ;) Sadly he's married but Mom has voted him as best nurse yet because he let her have a few sips of lemonade...so his nickname is now "Dearest Jeremy" :)

So Dearest Jeremy came back this afternoon to get Mom up for her first "walk." He said if she only sits or stands up that would be great but she walked across her room and did good as you can see in the picture. Tomorrow we try to get out into the hall, but we'll see. Baby steps.

Dad is here now and Jake, Lisa and Erin just left. Shawn is headed down this evening. I stayed with my friends Steve & Rachel last night, they had a bottle of my favorite wine waiting for me and it was nice to be with friends and to be back in my city!

That's about all for now. Stay tuned...hopefully this weekend Kate will start on regular fluids and maybe some solid food by Sunday.

Love to all,

jen

She is a CHAMP!

Sitting here with Dad in my Mom's room watching her rest as they manage her pain. We had a bit of a mishap with the pain dispensing machine at first but now things are worked out and she's nice and comfortable.

Kate's already telling the nurses what's up and I've got the whole station checking on her :) Dad and I laughed that of course she's on the top floor, the person who hates heights. But all in all, things are good.

Today we celebrate today. She got through the surgery wonderfully.

Tomorrow and thereafter we'll determine her treatment to kick the rest of the Cancer's A**!!

It's been a long day, signing off for now but will keep everyone posted throughout our stay.

Oh, and below is the hospital info for those of you who asked:

Hospital of University of Pennsylvania

Silverstein Building, Room #1203B

3400 Spruce Street

Philadelphia, PA 19104

Thanks and love to all....we truly couldn't do this without all of you.

xoxo,

jen

Headed to Recovery!!

Dr Drebin, Mom's surgeon, just came down to say she made it through the surgery with flying colors! It was done within an hour, she lost very little blood and there have been no other complications. We're THRILLED.

We are waiting for her to get moved to recovery and probably won't see her until this afternoon so we'll post more then.

For now, thank you so much for all of the comments, texts, etc. Mom has so enjoyed hearing from everyone--those near and far.

We love you.

jen

Donuts & Tea

Mom went through her PET scan with flying colors, despite her hatred of "tubes and tests." So to celebrate we just enjoyed some donuts with a hot cup of tea. Mom said "that hit the spot!"

Now we wait. Wait to hear when our surgery time is tomorrow. Wait to hear more test results. Wait for her surgery to be done.

As we learn more we'll let you know.

As of now, we're just excited to have the afternoon home to relax and watch All My Children together.

Stay tuned--thanks for all the followers and comments!

Much love,

jen