Monday, January 31, 2005
Saturday, January 29, 2005
That's family!
This morning I was talking to my big sister Coby in Holland. She will be 80 this spring going on 30. She is so funny, that is where Yvonne get's it from I am sure!
Sis lives in an Older people establishment. Her husband past away barely a year ago, but that does not stop her from being funny.
She told me, she was in the lounge talking with some other residents, when one lady commented, how come there are only women here. The men are all dead. To which Sis replied, I know why, all eyes on her!!! God needs the men to get heaven ready for us. Well, said one lady, never heard that before!
She is always looking at the bright side. When her husband had passed away after a long sickness, friends remarked, so sad, now you are alone, to which she replied, I have had a wonderful life, God has been good to me. He will continue to look after me.
Now that does not meen she does not miss her husband, but she does find a way to be positive and a blessing to others. She certainly has been a source of encouragement to me. I love her for that.
Love Trudy, yep that's me
Sis lives in an Older people establishment. Her husband past away barely a year ago, but that does not stop her from being funny.
She told me, she was in the lounge talking with some other residents, when one lady commented, how come there are only women here. The men are all dead. To which Sis replied, I know why, all eyes on her!!! God needs the men to get heaven ready for us. Well, said one lady, never heard that before!
She is always looking at the bright side. When her husband had passed away after a long sickness, friends remarked, so sad, now you are alone, to which she replied, I have had a wonderful life, God has been good to me. He will continue to look after me.
Now that does not meen she does not miss her husband, but she does find a way to be positive and a blessing to others. She certainly has been a source of encouragement to me. I love her for that.
Love Trudy, yep that's me
Friday, January 28, 2005
Consumer Christianity
Christianity in modern America....
Tends to be easy, upbeat, convenient, and compatible. I does not require self-sacrifice, dicipline, humility, an otherwordly outlook, a zeal for souls, a fear as well as love for God. There is little guilt and no punishment, and the payoff in heaven is virtually certain.
What we now have might best be labeled,"Consumer Christianity." The cost is low and customer satisfaction seems guaranteed.
If we were only customers of Almighty God, we could be selective in our faith and reject anything we didn't like. But...that is not an idea we get from Jesus. He pointed us to a cross, not to a spiritual check-out counter. He said: "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, follow Me. For whoever loses his life for My sake will save it". Christ died on a cross for our sins, not for our satisfaction. And He calls us to trust in Him with a life of self-denial.
In a world where the customer is alway right, it takes radical obedience to God to keep from bying into "Consumer Christianity."
Just something to think about!
Love Trudy
Tends to be easy, upbeat, convenient, and compatible. I does not require self-sacrifice, dicipline, humility, an otherwordly outlook, a zeal for souls, a fear as well as love for God. There is little guilt and no punishment, and the payoff in heaven is virtually certain.
What we now have might best be labeled,"Consumer Christianity." The cost is low and customer satisfaction seems guaranteed.
If we were only customers of Almighty God, we could be selective in our faith and reject anything we didn't like. But...that is not an idea we get from Jesus. He pointed us to a cross, not to a spiritual check-out counter. He said: "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, follow Me. For whoever loses his life for My sake will save it". Christ died on a cross for our sins, not for our satisfaction. And He calls us to trust in Him with a life of self-denial.
In a world where the customer is alway right, it takes radical obedience to God to keep from bying into "Consumer Christianity."
Just something to think about!
Love Trudy
Join the living
Well, I had my first trip outside the house, besides the few trips to the doctors. As I mentioned yesterday, Yvonne, the girls and I were planning to go to Wal-Mart.
Well, we did our McFries thing, and ice-cream, that was fun. But that was not all. Since Yvonne has a Birthday coming up she could pick out $25.00 worth of candles.
Then we went to the boys department and bought some clothing for Hudson, who will be four the 28th. But that's not all, I needed some makeup, yarn to knit a scarve for my nieces girlfriend and a frame for a picture we had received for Christmas. Why am I telling you this? Because, that is how much we walked. You might have quessed, I was pretty proud of myself, and so is my family.
Love Trudy
Well, we did our McFries thing, and ice-cream, that was fun. But that was not all. Since Yvonne has a Birthday coming up she could pick out $25.00 worth of candles.
Then we went to the boys department and bought some clothing for Hudson, who will be four the 28th. But that's not all, I needed some makeup, yarn to knit a scarve for my nieces girlfriend and a frame for a picture we had received for Christmas. Why am I telling you this? Because, that is how much we walked. You might have quessed, I was pretty proud of myself, and so is my family.
Love Trudy
Thursday, January 27, 2005
Catchy?
Anneka:"Oma, how are you feeling?"
Oma: "I am getting better and better."
Anneka: "I hope I will not catch what you have Oma!"
Oma: "No sweetie, Oma had an operation, you can't catch this."
Anneka: "Phew, that is a relief."
Oma: "I am getting better and better."
Anneka: "I hope I will not catch what you have Oma!"
Oma: "No sweetie, Oma had an operation, you can't catch this."
Anneka: "Phew, that is a relief."
Wednesday, January 26, 2005
Update
Well, I am getting better and stronger, my appetite is returning, things are looking good. I have been looking up on the internet how the new Chemo "Xeloda" will affect me. So many entries and they all say pretty well the same, it is a good drug with some side effects. Right now I can look this up on the labtop from my work. Sitting up in front of the computer in our office I would find to difficult yet.
Yesterday I have been working from 10-3, doing accounting and the office, Maple Leaf Drilling, and I are in contact daily. I will give Debbie the entries I have made so she can update her work. Works realy great and I enjoy doing this. This way it won't be to stessful for her having to worry about everything. Work also does not get too behind as I plan to go back second week in February for a bit.
Today I have gone to the basement for the first time, I needed to sort some laundry so that we could do a couple of loads. Ted has been trying to keep it up, but some things I want to be left for me, old habits never change!!
When going up and down I notice my legs still feel a bit rubbery.
Tomorrow, we Yvonne the girls and I like to go to Wallmart, and have our traditional trip to "Mc Fries" as Anneka calls it. If necesary, I'll hop in a wheelchair. Ever tried it, it's fun, everybody is sooo helpful. When I had my feet operated on we went to Polo Park, with Lynne, Jennifer Yvonne and all the kids, I never had so much fun in my life. People are so nice and accommodating. I was pushed around had one of the kids on my lap and the others in strollers.
Well I will have to leave something for tomorrow's entry
Love Trudy
Yesterday I have been working from 10-3, doing accounting and the office, Maple Leaf Drilling, and I are in contact daily. I will give Debbie the entries I have made so she can update her work. Works realy great and I enjoy doing this. This way it won't be to stessful for her having to worry about everything. Work also does not get too behind as I plan to go back second week in February for a bit.
Today I have gone to the basement for the first time, I needed to sort some laundry so that we could do a couple of loads. Ted has been trying to keep it up, but some things I want to be left for me, old habits never change!!
When going up and down I notice my legs still feel a bit rubbery.
Tomorrow, we Yvonne the girls and I like to go to Wallmart, and have our traditional trip to "Mc Fries" as Anneka calls it. If necesary, I'll hop in a wheelchair. Ever tried it, it's fun, everybody is sooo helpful. When I had my feet operated on we went to Polo Park, with Lynne, Jennifer Yvonne and all the kids, I never had so much fun in my life. People are so nice and accommodating. I was pushed around had one of the kids on my lap and the others in strollers.
Well I will have to leave something for tomorrow's entry
Love Trudy
Sunday, January 23, 2005
I do a lot of thinking lately!
It's like this.
Ever heard people say they blame God for something?
Might be sickness, lack of finances, the Tsunami, or some other calamity?
Yet, did the same people ever thank God for their good fortune, health etc.
Does that make any sense to you, what do you say?
Trudy
Ever heard people say they blame God for something?
Might be sickness, lack of finances, the Tsunami, or some other calamity?
Yet, did the same people ever thank God for their good fortune, health etc.
Does that make any sense to you, what do you say?
Trudy
Saturday, January 22, 2005
Been thinking
What went wrong? I eat right, many years ago I looked up in a vitamin book what to take and we have been taking them ever since. Vitamin, E, Selenium, Folic acid, Balanced B, Multi, Iron, Alfalfa, we had to take half in the morning the rest with our evening meal.
Meat I can live without, I love homemade vegetable, or pea soups. Hardly any sweets.
I for one lived a rather disciplined life. I weigh the same as about 40 some years ago!
I do exercises, never believed too much in gyms, some go five times a week, get discouraged, and stop, what a waste of money.
If I need an item, I’ll asked for it on my Birthday or Christmas and I do it at home.
The boys still talk about it as every night I’d go on the twister,swoosh…..swoosh…. on the beat of some country music. But slim I was!!!
Even bought a treadmill, I stopped that after I had my feet operated on. It is downstairs in the gym room/baby room.
What I enjoy the most is working in the garden. I would have three yards of soil delivered and single handedly would move it to the flower beds in one day. One time as I was filling up a wheelbarrow, an older Filipino man walked by, stopped and asked: “You no husband?” to which I replied, showing my skinny arm, and with all my might trying to show him my muscles, “ me, is very strong!!!! He shook his head and walked on.
Last summer had gravel delivered for our three car-parking pad. The deliveryman looked at us, (as Yvonne had come over with the girls); probably wondering and pittying us but again, we did it!
By the time he came with the soil we had spread the gravel out.
Having said all this, it has made the recovering from the operation a lot easier. Getting up from a lying position, no problem, the wound has been healing well, (Vit E). Plus, as per my surgeon, for the operating staff, it made the work so much easier.
Some people smoke and live to be 100. Does that mean, I am throwing in the towel?
No way, I think we owe it to the Lord to take care of His temple, we owe it definitely to our spouse and children and grandkids. So I just keep on doing what I have been doing, keep on wearing those hip jeans and according to Yvonne, no old ladies hairdos! After all, I don’t like shopping in old ladies store’s either!
Talk to you later
Trudy
Meat I can live without, I love homemade vegetable, or pea soups. Hardly any sweets.
I for one lived a rather disciplined life. I weigh the same as about 40 some years ago!
I do exercises, never believed too much in gyms, some go five times a week, get discouraged, and stop, what a waste of money.
If I need an item, I’ll asked for it on my Birthday or Christmas and I do it at home.
The boys still talk about it as every night I’d go on the twister,swoosh…..swoosh…. on the beat of some country music. But slim I was!!!
Even bought a treadmill, I stopped that after I had my feet operated on. It is downstairs in the gym room/baby room.
What I enjoy the most is working in the garden. I would have three yards of soil delivered and single handedly would move it to the flower beds in one day. One time as I was filling up a wheelbarrow, an older Filipino man walked by, stopped and asked: “You no husband?” to which I replied, showing my skinny arm, and with all my might trying to show him my muscles, “ me, is very strong!!!! He shook his head and walked on.
Last summer had gravel delivered for our three car-parking pad. The deliveryman looked at us, (as Yvonne had come over with the girls); probably wondering and pittying us but again, we did it!
By the time he came with the soil we had spread the gravel out.
Having said all this, it has made the recovering from the operation a lot easier. Getting up from a lying position, no problem, the wound has been healing well, (Vit E). Plus, as per my surgeon, for the operating staff, it made the work so much easier.
Some people smoke and live to be 100. Does that mean, I am throwing in the towel?
No way, I think we owe it to the Lord to take care of His temple, we owe it definitely to our spouse and children and grandkids. So I just keep on doing what I have been doing, keep on wearing those hip jeans and according to Yvonne, no old ladies hairdos! After all, I don’t like shopping in old ladies store’s either!
Talk to you later
Trudy
Update
Well, just a bit of update.
I am getting stronger every day, having the wound that is still healing, is a good thing; else I might be overdoing it. As soon as I do too much that part and the inside starts to get very uncomfortable.
I sleep well, I have gained two pounds, and friends have been bringing us meals, which is very humbling for me. Especially when they come here with all that snow.
Thank you all so very much, we are so grateful.
Love Trudy
I am getting stronger every day, having the wound that is still healing, is a good thing; else I might be overdoing it. As soon as I do too much that part and the inside starts to get very uncomfortable.
I sleep well, I have gained two pounds, and friends have been bringing us meals, which is very humbling for me. Especially when they come here with all that snow.
Thank you all so very much, we are so grateful.
Love Trudy
Wednesday, January 19, 2005
Switch!
What a switch, that is what they said today at the Cancer Clinic, since it has been Ted(Theo) who'd been the patient for the last four years and I always came along. So I told Dr. Harris the specialist, what he can do I can do better!
The first question I asked her was: "Will I be loosing my hair?" The answer is no, for which I am very thankful. I have to say though, I had surrendered that as well. I have now lots of time to meditate and reflect on God's faithfulnes. I have this assurance that I am in His hands.
I could not do this without the prayers of the many friends and loved ones and even those I have never met. Thank you so very much!!!
I have been told that I am a strong woman, no I am not, but what I do have is faith in God and in the many prayers of those around me. Thank you Jesus.
The first question I asked her was: "Will I be loosing my hair?" The answer is no, for which I am very thankful. I have to say though, I had surrendered that as well. I have now lots of time to meditate and reflect on God's faithfulnes. I have this assurance that I am in His hands.
I could not do this without the prayers of the many friends and loved ones and even those I have never met. Thank you so very much!!!
I have been told that I am a strong woman, no I am not, but what I do have is faith in God and in the many prayers of those around me. Thank you Jesus.
chemo cure
According to the cancer specialist the cancer had not only spread to 3 lymph nodes , but was also in some membranes. This increases the risk somewhat of it spreading further. The medication that will be started in about a month is "Xeloda". It is a powerful newer medication and it is very expensive. Since you take this at home you have to pay for it yourself. Yes I know, that is the system. Total cost, as far as I can make out, for this medication alone, is between $1,200 and $1,700.
The good news is that the liver is clear. Trudy is in good spirits and feels she will be able, with Gods help, to overcome this health problem. The wound is healing nicely now and the pain is manageable. When the wound is satisfactorily healed the Chemo treatment will start.
The good news is that the liver is clear. Trudy is in good spirits and feels she will be able, with Gods help, to overcome this health problem. The wound is healing nicely now and the pain is manageable. When the wound is satisfactorily healed the Chemo treatment will start.
Monday, January 17, 2005
NEXT STEP
Today we made our way to the hospital for a follow-up examination by the surgeon, and, glad to say, everything was OK. Except for the cold weather, that is, around -32C!! And all the parking places around the hospital were taken, of course.
In the afternoon the call came from the oncologist for the NEXT STEP in the treatment of the cancer. We will know more after the appointment on Wednesday the 19th. Friends and family are calling and visiting, and Emailing and we enjoy the warm support of many lovely people. Together we are continuing to submit the situation to the Lord in prayer, - we believe HE has the final word, also in this matter. May our lives bring glory and honour to His name.
Ted and Trudy Decock
In the afternoon the call came from the oncologist for the NEXT STEP in the treatment of the cancer. We will know more after the appointment on Wednesday the 19th. Friends and family are calling and visiting, and Emailing and we enjoy the warm support of many lovely people. Together we are continuing to submit the situation to the Lord in prayer, - we believe HE has the final word, also in this matter. May our lives bring glory and honour to His name.
Ted and Trudy Decock
Friday, January 14, 2005
A N G E L ?
Jan 14, 2005
I like to share with you an experience I had in the hospital;
On the day of my surgery an orderly came to pick me up. I was going to get out of bed. But he said "No, no, you just relax in the bed and I will wheel you out".
I thanked him and thought: "What a nice man!". He had dark skin, and very kind eyes. Before we went he said: "I'll straighten your blankets, after all, you are going for a ride".
As we came to the operating room he gave me a warm blanket and put a green covering over my hair.
While we were waiting he said:
"You will be all right, you are in good hands."
I nodded.
After a while he said:
"He, up there," (pointing his finger upward,) "He is with you!"
"Do you love Him?" I asked
"Oh yes" , he said, "Jesus means so much to me!"
I responded: "You have no idea what it means to me, hearing you say that. For, you know, my family could not come because of the snowstorm. Although I am not nervous and very much at peace, yet you re-assure me that He is with me."
Then he continued to tell me:
"That nurse there, she loves the Lord and she will be with you; I am not allowed in the operating room, but in the next room I will be praying for you."
He helped the staff to put me on the operating table and promised he would be there when I woke up. And he was! He was such a comfort to me. The following day he came to my room once , and I have not seen him since.
I have never been so comforted by anyone. I call him my angel, sent by God!
Trudy
I like to share with you an experience I had in the hospital;
On the day of my surgery an orderly came to pick me up. I was going to get out of bed. But he said "No, no, you just relax in the bed and I will wheel you out".
I thanked him and thought: "What a nice man!". He had dark skin, and very kind eyes. Before we went he said: "I'll straighten your blankets, after all, you are going for a ride".
As we came to the operating room he gave me a warm blanket and put a green covering over my hair.
While we were waiting he said:
"You will be all right, you are in good hands."
I nodded.
After a while he said:
"He, up there," (pointing his finger upward,) "He is with you!"
"Do you love Him?" I asked
"Oh yes" , he said, "Jesus means so much to me!"
I responded: "You have no idea what it means to me, hearing you say that. For, you know, my family could not come because of the snowstorm. Although I am not nervous and very much at peace, yet you re-assure me that He is with me."
Then he continued to tell me:
"That nurse there, she loves the Lord and she will be with you; I am not allowed in the operating room, but in the next room I will be praying for you."
He helped the staff to put me on the operating table and promised he would be there when I woke up. And he was! He was such a comfort to me. The following day he came to my room once , and I have not seen him since.
I have never been so comforted by anyone. I call him my angel, sent by God!
Trudy
Thursday, January 13, 2005
Notes from Truus (chapter 2)
It’s 7:45. I was up early again at about 5:45, made some oatmeal porridge, and had lots to drink. While I ate that, I read my devotional and the Bible. There is no better time to spend with the Lord than early in the morning. I have made this a practice for a long, long time.
Just an update about yesterday. As Ted mentioned , it was a bit of a set back. The wound popped open! It happened right before going to the hospital yesterday (I had noticed it was red and hot...we suspected an infection) It is not uncommon to get an infection with a bowel operation, why that is, I don’t have to tell you! (It’s not the cleanest portion of the body!)
In any case, the wound had to be drained and cleaned and stuffed with a strip of “Aquacell“. A highly absorbing material about 1 1/2 cm x 10 cm. Its the same idea as what is inside diapers. This has to be replaced twice a week. A homecare nurse will come to the house to change the dressing. That is good, because when I came home yesterday, I was so exhausted, I could barely talk. The doctor prescribed two kinds of antibiotics to speed the healing. I am a real chicken when it comes to things like that, but I forget very quickly as well!
My appetite is coming back, and spiritually and mentally, I’m great.
Yesterday , dear friends of ours (Els and Ken Penner) came over with homemade soup and some sweets, and they prayed for me as well.
While I was lying awake last night, I thought about our friends and family. They are such a blessing. We have friends and family who do not have the same faith as we do. Some even deny the existence of God. But...they show me so much love and concern. Since God IS love (1 John 4:7), by loving me they are doing a service for God. Love is the greatest thing (1 Cor 13:1) If you give a cup of water to the least of these, Jesus said, you have done it to me. (Matt 25:40). My convictions and habits are as follows: When a person is sad, a bit of sympathy and love are often of more value than short sermonettes. Prayers done in love are followed by acts of kindness. We have to be careful that saying “I’ll pray for you” doesn’t just become a cop-out. Praying is serious business.
This counts for people who have lost a love one. Show your concern, and some love, and they might initiate a conversation in which you can communicate something from the Bible as the Holy Spirit directs you.
This isn’t too preachy is it? Yvonne is typing this and said “Mom, it’s YOUR blog, say whatever you want!”
More later......
Just an update about yesterday. As Ted mentioned , it was a bit of a set back. The wound popped open! It happened right before going to the hospital yesterday (I had noticed it was red and hot...we suspected an infection) It is not uncommon to get an infection with a bowel operation, why that is, I don’t have to tell you! (It’s not the cleanest portion of the body!)
In any case, the wound had to be drained and cleaned and stuffed with a strip of “Aquacell“. A highly absorbing material about 1 1/2 cm x 10 cm. Its the same idea as what is inside diapers. This has to be replaced twice a week. A homecare nurse will come to the house to change the dressing. That is good, because when I came home yesterday, I was so exhausted, I could barely talk. The doctor prescribed two kinds of antibiotics to speed the healing. I am a real chicken when it comes to things like that, but I forget very quickly as well!
My appetite is coming back, and spiritually and mentally, I’m great.
Yesterday , dear friends of ours (Els and Ken Penner) came over with homemade soup and some sweets, and they prayed for me as well.
While I was lying awake last night, I thought about our friends and family. They are such a blessing. We have friends and family who do not have the same faith as we do. Some even deny the existence of God. But...they show me so much love and concern. Since God IS love (1 John 4:7), by loving me they are doing a service for God. Love is the greatest thing (1 Cor 13:1) If you give a cup of water to the least of these, Jesus said, you have done it to me. (Matt 25:40). My convictions and habits are as follows: When a person is sad, a bit of sympathy and love are often of more value than short sermonettes. Prayers done in love are followed by acts of kindness. We have to be careful that saying “I’ll pray for you” doesn’t just become a cop-out. Praying is serious business.
This counts for people who have lost a love one. Show your concern, and some love, and they might initiate a conversation in which you can communicate something from the Bible as the Holy Spirit directs you.
This isn’t too preachy is it? Yvonne is typing this and said “Mom, it’s YOUR blog, say whatever you want!”
More later......
Wednesday, January 12, 2005
A step backward
A step backward. The wound and surrounding area was red this morning and discharging. That meant a trip to the hospital to have this looked after. The ACF department at st.Boniface treated the condition and presribed medication. All this just before the next snowstorm hits, which is supposed to be here in Winnipeg tonight. OK, we are ready for the storm and whatever else may happen. Yes, we find our strength in the Lord. -
Ted Decock
Ted Decock
Tuesday, January 11, 2005
Hello there!
I’m dictating the following information to Yvonne, so that she can update the site! (I’m not well enough to sit and type!)
I’ve been home for a few days. Our son Paul (who flew up from North Carolina) left this afternoon. And needless to say, I miss him already so much! He is so loving, and helpful around the house. Cleaning up, vacuuming etc. He is very good at that. He also had a chance to meet with some of his old friends.
It is good to be home again with my husband…but my stay in the hospital was good too. I called it a “five star” hotel! The staff was excellent at St Boniface. I could have gone home a day earlier, or stayed a day longer, but Saturday I felt “Today is the day!”
My spirits are good. A feeling like “What’s the big deal anyhow?” I’d heard that people with cancer have this cloud of gloom hanging over them. That’s not me! I don’t sleep all that well because of pain and discomfort, but I can nap easily during the day.
Monday was a very busy day. Lots of phone calls, and some visitors. Today so far, has been quiet. I watch some TV, but I get tired of it very quick. I read, knit, all the things I like to do. “The time of my life” haha.
I feel extremely close to God. I was up at 6am, got myself some milk, some toast, and I did my devotional. Ecclesiastic 1:1-11. Since I use “the Daily Bread” devotion, that was the passage for today. I skimmed thru the next chapters, and found in chapter 11:1
Ecclesiastes 11:1-3 (New International Version)
1 Cast your bread upon the waters, for after many days you will find it again.
2 Give portions to seven, yes to eight,
for you do not know what disaster may come upon the land.
Or in other words:
Ecclesiastes 11:1-3 (The Message)
1Be generous: Invest in acts of charity. Charity yields high returns.
2Don't hoard your goods; spread them
around. Be a blessing to others. This could be your last night
That made me think of what my nephew Tim said yesterday. His wife Sandra had made some soup and salad for me. He came to drop it off after work. (Quite out of his way too!) Tim said “Aunt Trudy, it’s your turn. (to receive)” I was deeply touched. Its much easier for me to give than to receive. That’s why I’m so overwhelmed by all the love I’ve received. People who have brought meals etc. I want to thank everyone of you who has shown me kindness, and thank you for your prayers.
Talk to you soon!
Monday, January 10, 2005
Saturday, January 08, 2005
Meals
I goto a great church, and have some great friends! When I had my babies, they arranged meals to be brought to us, to alleviate the stress of cooking. This is something that we as a group of friends try to do for every one of us who has given birth!
Well, on Thursday, a great friend of mine named Colleen thought that perhaps my parents could benefit from this great tradition too! What really touched me, is that Colleen has never even met my Mom. She brought 2 meals to my home for my parents!
If anyone else feels led, I'd love to arranged to have some meals made for them. Colleen simply made the food, and froze it. Simple light dishes are best...pastas, salads, potato dishes, soups etc.
So if you are interested in helping in this way, please email me by clicking HERE
Thank you all so much for your love and kindness!
Yvonne
Well, on Thursday, a great friend of mine named Colleen thought that perhaps my parents could benefit from this great tradition too! What really touched me, is that Colleen has never even met my Mom. She brought 2 meals to my home for my parents!
If anyone else feels led, I'd love to arranged to have some meals made for them. Colleen simply made the food, and froze it. Simple light dishes are best...pastas, salads, potato dishes, soups etc.
So if you are interested in helping in this way, please email me by clicking HERE
Thank you all so much for your love and kindness!
Yvonne
Home at Last
Well, she is HOME. So no more phonecalls to the hospital, and no more visits to the hospital, unless of course you want to see some-one else, Ha!
Thank you once again for your love and prayer. We (Trudy and Ted) are really blessed having friends like you.
Ted Decock
Thank you once again for your love and prayer. We (Trudy and Ted) are really blessed having friends like you.
Ted Decock
Night Song
Last night, Mom had this song going through her head. She felt the battle in her mind...fear creeping in, trying to rob her peace. And as she thought of this song, it became her prayer.She asked me to post the words.
God on the Mountain
Life is easy when you're up on the mountain
And you've got peace of mind like you've never known.
But then things change and you're down in the valley.
Don't lose faith for you're never alone.
For the God on the mountain is still God in the valley.
When things go wrong, He'll make it right.
And the God of the good times
is still God in the bad times.
The God of the day is still God in the night.
You talk of faith when you're up on the mountain.
Oh but the talk comes easy when life's at its best.
But it's down in the valley of trials and temptation
That's when faith is really put to the test.
For the God on the mountain is still God in the valley.
When things go wrong, He'll make it right.
And the God of the good times
is still God in the bad times.
The God of the day is still God in the night.
The God of the day is still God in the night.
Song by Lynda Randle
Friday, January 07, 2005
A Note from Trudy
Friday, Jan 7 2005
It has been a week now since the surgery, Yesterday was defiantly not a good day. I felt sick, did not want to eat etc. Now, finally, I’m allowed to eat whatever I want, but everything looks blah
Today I feel better, I was sipping ginger ale thru the night (I’ve been very nauseous) I had some Gravol, but the Tylenol 3’s, I didn’t take (they make me nauseous). So I put up with a bit of pain in order not to feel sick!
Today I’m taking both again. I also had my first bowel movements (sorry to be so graphic!) No discomfort at all, so that’s great news!
Dr Frazier came in today with the news from the pathology department. They took out 27 lymph nodes, but 3 were affected. So Dr Frazier will contact Dr Harris from Grace Hospital for further treatment at the Oncology Department.
So now we have to deal with that…but I will just go with the flow. God is in control, so I’ll give it all to Him!
It’s like this: I’ve always been rather miffed when people are always complaining. Especially about the weather!! When my dear husband Ted came thru his 2 bouts with cancer, my heart was full of gratitude. Not complaint.
I remember just about 6 weeks ago, during my devotions…I was thanking God for all His blessings in my life.
With all the ups and downs, I could at that time not think of anything I wanted changed! Now, however, I would have liked to hear the doctor say "no further treatments!" But since that is not the case, I’ll just take things as they come.
I thank the Lord for my husband and children, my dear niece (Monica) who is more like a daughter than a niece and Family and friends, who must be taking this hard.
I promise everybody I AM GOING TO BEAT THIS!
Thank you all for your love and prayers, for all the comments on this website (don’t I look great?? ) Please continue to pray for me, and here's a little "Truus Assignment" for you!:
Each of you take tomorrow and try to make no negative comments (even if it is –45) about anything or anybody.
Be thankful: God is worthy to be Praised.(Besides...People like you a lot better if you don’t complain all the time!)
When we first got married, Ted used to say "Give your smiles to those who love you less, and keep your tears for me."
Thanks to everyone who have sent flowers, cards, money, and meals. My heart is filled with gratitude!
Love
Trudy (Truus)
It has been a week now since the surgery, Yesterday was defiantly not a good day. I felt sick, did not want to eat etc. Now, finally, I’m allowed to eat whatever I want, but everything looks blah
Today I feel better, I was sipping ginger ale thru the night (I’ve been very nauseous) I had some Gravol, but the Tylenol 3’s, I didn’t take (they make me nauseous). So I put up with a bit of pain in order not to feel sick!
Today I’m taking both again. I also had my first bowel movements (sorry to be so graphic!) No discomfort at all, so that’s great news!
Dr Frazier came in today with the news from the pathology department. They took out 27 lymph nodes, but 3 were affected. So Dr Frazier will contact Dr Harris from Grace Hospital for further treatment at the Oncology Department.
So now we have to deal with that…but I will just go with the flow. God is in control, so I’ll give it all to Him!
It’s like this: I’ve always been rather miffed when people are always complaining. Especially about the weather!! When my dear husband Ted came thru his 2 bouts with cancer, my heart was full of gratitude. Not complaint.
I remember just about 6 weeks ago, during my devotions…I was thanking God for all His blessings in my life.
I’ve been married almost 45 years to the trustworthiest, loving, and caring husband who loves me unconditionally. I have 2 sons, Ron and Paul with wives Lynne and Jennifer, who are more my daughters than my in-laws. They love the Lord, serve Him, and they have beautiful children. Then my daughter Yvonne and her husband Jason and their girls…they bring so much joy into my life.
With all the ups and downs, I could at that time not think of anything I wanted changed! Now, however, I would have liked to hear the doctor say "no further treatments!" But since that is not the case, I’ll just take things as they come.
I thank the Lord for my husband and children, my dear niece (Monica) who is more like a daughter than a niece and Family and friends, who must be taking this hard.
Thank you all for your love and prayers, for all the comments on this website (don’t I look great?? ) Please continue to pray for me, and here's a little "Truus Assignment" for you!:
Each of you take tomorrow and try to make no negative comments (even if it is –45) about anything or anybody.
Be thankful: God is worthy to be Praised.(Besides...People like you a lot better if you don’t complain all the time!)
When we first got married, Ted used to say "Give your smiles to those who love you less, and keep your tears for me."
Thanks to everyone who have sent flowers, cards, money, and meals. My heart is filled with gratitude!
Love
Trudy (Truus)
Lab Results
The lab report is in and the cancer had indeed spread to the lymph nodes. There were 27 taken out, and they found 3 that were affected.
Even though they were "slightly" infected the report is forwarded to a cancer specialist to decide if chemo therapy is needed. Trudy is very brave and she will face this also with faith and optimism.
Ted Decock
Even though they were "slightly" infected the report is forwarded to a cancer specialist to decide if chemo therapy is needed. Trudy is very brave and she will face this also with faith and optimism.
Ted Decock
Thursday, January 06, 2005
Wednesday, January 05, 2005
quote
Quote of the day:
"Boy it feels good to feel better!!"
That is what Trudy said this afternoon when she laid down after a long walk. She is off the morphine and gets Tylenol 3 for pain now. She talks much, and lively; she will be her old self in another day or so.
Pray that she will regain some appetite - right now she does not feel like eating. And keep on praying that the lymphnodes may be clear!
Ted Decock
"Boy it feels good to feel better!!"
That is what Trudy said this afternoon when she laid down after a long walk. She is off the morphine and gets Tylenol 3 for pain now. She talks much, and lively; she will be her old self in another day or so.
Pray that she will regain some appetite - right now she does not feel like eating. And keep on praying that the lymphnodes may be clear!
Ted Decock
Tuesday
Last night (tuesday) I took Anneka (my daughter, age 4) to see her Oma. I had taken her 2 days ago also. Two days ago, she had a tube in her nose that went down her throat to drain her stomach. She also had oxygen, and a couple other hoses attached. In the room, Anneka acted like everything was normal, but in the hall way, out of Oma's earshot, she said "Mommy, Oma looks....kinda funny. BUT don't tell her I said that...I wouldn't want to hurt her feelings."
Smart kid! Anyway, last night we went to see Mom, and again, what a recovery! No more tubes! She has only the IV! She is getting up to walk, use the bathroom, and even walked us to the elevator (leaning on her IV pole for support)
I'm so proud of her! She looks great, and had a yummy lunch of Broccoli soup (broth with no chunks), jello, and even ice-cream.
She was laughing alot, and wanted me to share some funny stories on this site. Not just the facts, but some light-hearted stuff!
For example...the time that she touched her nose and said "Oh...my nose sure feels dry!" To which I explained "Mom...that's a band-aid!" (a cloth-type bandaid afixing her nose-tube)
Last night we laughed and laughed....and she would hold her incision and say "ooooooo!" because too much laughing would hurt!
We still are waiting to hear about the lymph nodes. But I have a feeling it will be good news. She's such a trooper!
Yvonne
Smart kid! Anyway, last night we went to see Mom, and again, what a recovery! No more tubes! She has only the IV! She is getting up to walk, use the bathroom, and even walked us to the elevator (leaning on her IV pole for support)
I'm so proud of her! She looks great, and had a yummy lunch of Broccoli soup (broth with no chunks), jello, and even ice-cream.
She was laughing alot, and wanted me to share some funny stories on this site. Not just the facts, but some light-hearted stuff!
For example...the time that she touched her nose and said "Oh...my nose sure feels dry!" To which I explained "Mom...that's a band-aid!" (a cloth-type bandaid afixing her nose-tube)
Last night we laughed and laughed....and she would hold her incision and say "ooooooo!" because too much laughing would hurt!
We still are waiting to hear about the lymph nodes. But I have a feeling it will be good news. She's such a trooper!
Yvonne
Monday, January 03, 2005
update
Trudy is recovering a bit more every day. One hose came out, and her stomach is getting ready to receive some food, liquids at first, of course.
She still gets pain killers intravenously.
She walked the length of the hall today, and is in good spirits. You can really see the power of faith in this situation.
Ted Decock
She still gets pain killers intravenously.
She walked the length of the hall today, and is in good spirits. You can really see the power of faith in this situation.
Ted Decock
Sunday, January 02, 2005
Looking good!
What a difference 24 hours make! Tonight, Mom was sitting up (sort of) and talking alot. She seemed tired, but was 100% more alert than yesterday. It can only get better! Let's now pray for those pathology reports to come back clean!
Yvonne
Yvonne
Surgeon Says:
-They removed a 3 cm growth.
-They removed the lateral and asending colon
-There was enough left to attach to allow for normal functioning
-Recovery is going well.
-If no Lymph Nodes are affected, there will be no chemo
-If Lymphs were affected...then chemo will start in a few weeks.
-Mom will stay for 5 days in hospital
-She will not be allowed to return to work for 8 weeks.
Ted
-They removed the lateral and asending colon
-There was enough left to attach to allow for normal functioning
-Recovery is going well.
-If no Lymph Nodes are affected, there will be no chemo
-If Lymphs were affected...then chemo will start in a few weeks.
-Mom will stay for 5 days in hospital
-She will not be allowed to return to work for 8 weeks.
Ted
Saturday, January 01, 2005
A note from Theo
I went to see Trudy in the hospital today. She says the care she gets at St. Boniface is "excellent". She dozed off frequently and had no energy to speak clearly. The nurse says this is caused by the painkillers. They had to reduce the amount of painkiller when Trudy's breathing became too shallow. She obviously needs a few more days of rest before she can interact with people. But she thanks everybody that has shown love and prayer.
Ted Decock
Ted Decock
Phonecalls
Mom is very groggy. She's requested NO phonecalls until Monday, because she's too 'out of it' to answer, or talk.
She can't wait to be feeling better and speak with everyone!
Yvonne
She can't wait to be feeling better and speak with everyone!
Yvonne
Post Op
My dad is unable to get to the hospital because of all the snow that we've had. Some streets have been plowed (the main ones) but most residential streets are still un-passable. Dad tried a couple times, but kept getting stuck. He's also not feeling very well.
Jason and I live closer to main traffic routes (which are clear to drive on), and a neighbor 'tipped' a city plow-operator $20.00 to clear our back-lane. So I will be able to go and see Mom this afternoon.
The nurses say she is doing well, but is very groggy. Sleeping alot. The results from the lab are expected in around 5 days.
Yvonne
Jason and I live closer to main traffic routes (which are clear to drive on), and a neighbor 'tipped' a city plow-operator $20.00 to clear our back-lane. So I will be able to go and see Mom this afternoon.
The nurses say she is doing well, but is very groggy. Sleeping alot. The results from the lab are expected in around 5 days.
Yvonne
from Ron
I'll update on Mom's behalf. The surgery went well. It was actually quicker than expected because "Trudy is so lean". She'll appreciate THAT comment.
The liver appears fine and everything connected up well. It will be a week before the results come back on how the lymph nodes are, but this is a good start.
Thank you for everyone's prayers. Please continue to pray that every last bit of cancer was removed and she'll have a quick recovery.
Ron
The liver appears fine and everything connected up well. It will be a week before the results come back on how the lymph nodes are, but this is a good start.
Thank you for everyone's prayers. Please continue to pray that every last bit of cancer was removed and she'll have a quick recovery.
Ron
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)