Ice ice, baby!

Last Friday we went to see the Dr. again, and the staples were removed. My Dad can only have ice chips for now and continues the jtube feedings. We are hoping in 2 weeks when we go again that they will say he can have liquids! But throughout this process he is doing better everyday! It's amazing what God can do! Thank you for the prayers! They are working! Our day to day is packed with baseball, cheer, football and a 1 year old, but I think the pace might even be helping the healing process!

Dad and Eric

What better of an inspiration!

Making tea with Reagan!

Visiting with Aunt Chic and Uncle Dave

Me and Viv on the sidelines!

 

Keep truckin'

As with any recovery, it takes time. My Dad is handling all of this very well. And thank you to everyone who has offered to help me. Having a husband who teaches and coaches varsity football is like pretty much being alone until December. With 4 kids it's a challenge, but Im used to it, but throw being a caretaker in there and suddenly I'm exhausted! I know if I rely on the Lord for strength, it will come. That is the only way for me. To my kids and husband- sorry if I seem pulled in all directions or short, momma is trying her best!

Back Home

Yesterday I got to bring my Dad home! Can you believe he's doing so well? He still can't eat or drink, but we are using the J tube and I put medications through there too. He is comfortable for now, and we will go back next week to remove the drain and staples. Everyone is so happy that he's back! Vivian goes to check on him in his room and brings him toys. I am earning my LVN credits!

Bella, Grandpa, Danny & Papa Gary

Grandpa, Vivian, & George

Vivian loves to bring him gingerale bottles

A Whole Week

Wow, it's been a whole week since my Dad's surgery. I can't believe how well he is doing! This journey is looking good right now! Today I took Luke with me to the hospital to visit Grandpa. He has been moved out of ICU, which is a good sign. He still hasn't been able to have anything to eat or drink, but after some more tests, hopefully tomorrow he will have clear liquids.

There are some crazy ducks outside the hospital on the pond!

 Ta Da! Here he is with the Columbian, aka Dr. Baustida. Don't worry he knows I call him that :) My Dad is looking better every day! He had an xray done of the abdomen, and to check for any leaks. He is still in the ICU for now.  The doctors have been so great! I feel really comfortable with them and they spend a lot of time talking and explaining things to us. Also, today was Vivian's Birthday! She had a party on Saturday, but every princess needs two cakes!

The doctors were able to remove the tube and ventilator! Thank goodness, that must have been very hard for him. Today he was able to whisper some words to me, but I also brought a pad of paper for him to write on. He did receive a blood transfusion this morning and his labs look good. They are keeping a close eye on him in the ICU. I give all the glory to the Lord for getting him through all of this! It is also through this tough time that family grows even closer, and that is definitely God's work right there. The next big test will be Thursday, when they test for any leaks. For now he is resting.

Day 2

This was taken on Saturday before the surgery. My Dad, Vivian, and Grandma Yoly

Me, Dr. Wallen and Aunt Yoly right after the surgery

He's in Recovery

Agh, finally Dr. Wallin comes down the hall in his Steelers cap! He greets us with a smile and a handshake. He says the surgery went well and he has NED- no evidence of disease. This is just the beginning of the hard work for my Dad, the Dr. Says. I am so thankful for such an awesome surgeon! He talked with us for awhile- yes there can be leaking or pneumonia, but the Dr. Will watch for any of these signs. I am awaiting to go into the ICU to check on him.

The big day

We arrived this morning at the hospital at 5:30am. My Dad was just wheeled back to the surgery area. His spirits seem good. He should be in surgery until 4:30pm today. For now my Aunt Yoly and cousin Marissa and I will wait patiently. Thank you for everyone's prayers and help along the way!

A Blog For Dad

I have never blogged before, but I decided it would be a great way to keep family and friends updated on how my Dad was doing. There are so many out there who are concerned, and after his surgery it may be difficult to call every single person for an update. I am also hoping to inspire others who are going through cancer with a family member or themselves. First a little background. My husband and I have four young children who are the joys of our life! But this past year my Dad was diagnosed with cancer of the esophagus and underwent chemo and radiation simultaneously. He came to stay with us, and now it is time for him to undergo surgery to remove the esophagus. His surgery will be on Monday, so please keep him in your prayers. I know that the Lord will continue to give us strength through this journey!

Aunt Chiqui coming to visit!

Snoozing with Grandpa!

Bella's Cheer Continues!