I just thought I would give you all a quick update on my Dad tonight! Since the last update, Rick's doctors provided a new option for chemotherapy and he was treated last week. Treatment went well, and wasn't too hard on him.
This past weekend all of his brothers and sisters came into town to visit. It was so great to see all of them and I know it really meant a lot to my Dad! He always cherishes time he gets to spend with his family.
This morning as Dad was waking up, Mom noticed that he was a little out of it. His speech was slurring, and after calling Huntsman, Mom decided to call an ambulance. Once they got to the hospital they did some tests and scans, and found out that Dad had a stroke on each side of his brain, and two smaller strokes in the back. He was put on oxygen and remained stable throughout the day--even cracking a few jokes!
Mom spoke with Dad's doctor up at Huntsman today and they have decided to discontinue chemotherapy for the time being. Dr. Garrido's suggestion was to start Dad on hospice, and that is a decision our family felt good about. As a family, I know we are all thankful for Dr. Garrido and the wonderful doctor and friend he has been for our Dad. He is a huge blessing.
Tonight Dad is home. He is on oxygen and seems to be improving since this morning. Hospice came by this evening to inform him about their program. To be completely open and honest with all of you, today was one of the hard days. Right now is a very tender time for our family, and I would ask that you please keep that in mind. We love you all. We appreciate your love and your prayers always. But this is a time when we need to be together as a family.We sure do love our Dad. He is the strongest man we know. He is my hero and the greatest example in my life. He can do hard things--and he does every single day. He always remains strong, faithful, and never loses trust in the Lord and in His plan. He is truly an incredible man. I am so blessed to have him for my Dad.
To finish, I thought I would share this quote by Thomas S. Monson: "God will not always take your afflictions from you, but He will comfort and lead you with love through whatever storms you face." I know I have felt the truth of this quote in my life.
Thank you, as always, for your thoughts and prayers.
Sending lots of love and prayers to your family! We love you!
ReplyDeleteMaddie, thank you so much for the update. What a rollercoaster of emotions you'be all been riding. Sending so much love as you transition to this new home based care. I just love your family so much. Thanks again for taking the time to do an update. Love love love. ����������������
ReplyDeleteHaha! The black out question marks are/were purple hearts :)
DeleteWe love you and our hearts go out to your amazing family!
ReplyDeleteLove to all of you! We love your family so much and your Dad! Are prayers are with you all!
ReplyDeleteLove and tremendous respect to your Dad, your sweet Mom and to you and your entire family. Rick has always been so good to Barbara at work and there's not a better, sweeter or more faithful person on the earth than your Mom. We pray for your parents and family every night. The night before last, our prayer was that Rick would be comfortable and your family at peace. God bless you at this tender time.
ReplyDeleteBarbara and Edd Davies
Please let your Mom and Dad know of our love for them. We have always loved your family and appreciated your friendship. Our prayers are with you always.
ReplyDeleteLyle and Sara Partridge
Our love and prayers are with your whole family. Such a difficult time.
ReplyDeleteSending so much love to you while family! I cannot imagine what you are all feeling, but I will be praying for peace and comfort for all of you.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the update! Sending prayers of peace and guidance as you continue this hard, difficult time. We love your family so much.
ReplyDeleteFlood of emotions over here. We are BIG TIME fans of Rick and the entire Wheadon clan. Rick is my hero in many respects and I'm proud of his courage and goodness. Our family and the Carollo family in Dallas are praying for you all!
ReplyDeletePeace and love being sent your way Rick. I pray for you and your family every single day! Take comfort in knowing that God is with you at all times.
ReplyDelete