Sandy Beardsley
Living with a Brain Tumor
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10/27/05
Day Eight
Filed under: General
Posted by: Dan @ 4:36 pm

3:00 pm….
Sandy is doing well and continuing to improve. She will be in the hospital one more night, and then we’re back to the hotel through next week, when she has more appointments here. Today has been a bit quieter for her. She had a nice heart-to-heart chat with one of her doctors early this morning before I got there. I helped her brush her hair, so she’s happy she’s looking better.
After awhile she started feeling pretty good and wanted to go down to the hospital gift shop to buy something for her "brain tumor buddy" roommate who was leaving today. So she took the hospital gown off (yes, the embarrassing kind) and put a t-shirt and sweat pants on… and off we went down to the shop. Luckily it wasn’t far - but an escalator and elevator ride - and she did fine. So we’re looking at books to buy her new friend and this one caught our eye… "I Had Brain Surgery, What’s Your Excuse?" It looks like a very funny true account complete with drawings and cartoons. So we bought two - one for us as well. And also got her some lotions and a card. I put a couple LiveStrong wristbands in the gift bag as well.
About a half hour ago, her roommate (and her great caring son) left us for their home nearby… wearing the wristbands. It was quite emotional for all of us. She and Sandy really bonded over the last three days. Her friend also had a brain tumor removed by the same doctor, but she has not gotten a pathology report back yet. She was diagnosed ten days ago with the tumor, and then the surgery this week. At least we’ve had six years to prepare for this possibility. They are both really tough strong women who will get through this. They have been alternately joking and helping each other the whole time. It has been good for me too, to be in the company of such strong women.
A physical therapist checked Sandy out and gave her the OK to be as active as she can handle right now. She’s had some great nurses, who quickly become impressed with her strength and sense of humor… but can also hold her hand during those not-so-tough moments. Great people here. Sandy also had the I.V. port in her neck removed this afternoon - a big relief as it was causing her a lot of discomfort. Now she just has an I.V. port in her arm as a precaution, if they need it. She’s eating more solid foods now and that’s helping her build strength. I’m hoping she might be up for a walk out to an outdoor terrace later to get some sunshine and fresh air.
So we’re looking forward to getting out of here tomorrow. And no, I didn’t sleep any better at the hotel, being far away from her. Should have slept on the waiting room couch….
more later…

10:30pm… back at the hotel
Just one last little note for the day as I’m exhausted… now that the adrenaline and fear has lessened a bit, maybe I can sleep some tonight.
The best part of today, besides reading Sandy all your recent comments and emails - and seeing her smile, laugh and cry at the same time - was when I walked with her to an outside garden terrace area (on the same 3rd floor where her room is) and she breathed fresh air for the first time since early monday morning (on that short but long walk from the car to the hospital surgery room)… and we held each other there on the terrace with the last of the sunlight warming us and I saw that sparkle again in those sunlit green eyes of hers…
Good night
Dan

17 Responses to “Day Eight”

  1. r. alex martinez Says:
    October 27th, 2005 at 4:52 pm Sandy and Dan, We’re thinking and praying for you everyday. Love, Jo and Alex
  2. Mary Lowe Says:
    October 27th, 2005 at 7:21 pm Dan and Sandy you are in our church bullitan for prayers, and so many of course know all about u through me. I love u both so much and will continue prayer to get u home soon Going off to the Sleep Center in about 10 mins. for a production and bringing the book. We are almost sold out and tonight may sell us out. Lu both much M (and T)
  3. Caryn O\\\'Connor Says:
    October 27th, 2005 at 7:22 pm Hi. Dan and Sandy. So glad to hear things are going so well. I can’t believe they’re letting you out tomorrow! Wow! But you’ll be close by, so no worries! Brian called today to check up on you. He doesn’t have access to a computer, so I was trying to describe all your wonderful entries and EVERYTHING that’s happened to you two this past week. Unbelievable all the beautiful things that have happened and to share all of your truly concerned friends’ comments of love and support. I always thought “blogs” sounded stupid, but my attitude is changed now!! Good news from him. He got a job at the Dollar Store. A guy who worked with Brian at Rite Aid years ago is the current manager. Small world, huh? He told Brian what a booming company it is, so hopefully he will stick with it. I leave for NZ on the 9th, so I hope I get to talk to you before I leave. Love and prayers….your sis.
  4. Margaret & Greg Says:
    October 27th, 2005 at 7:56 pm Hello you two- We read your emails every day and keep you in our hearts and prayers every hour of the day. We sent something to you a few days ago but not sure it made it through. It’s called the Unity Prayer. It was shared with us by our friend Susan a few years ago & has served as a good reminder through many a difficult time: The Light of God Surrounds You The Love of God Enfolds You The Power of God Protects You The Presence of God Watches Over You All Wherever You Are God Is and All Is Well We send you all our love and healing prayers. Margaret & Greg
  5. Millie Watkins Says:
    October 27th, 2005 at 8:10 pm It was good to hear how you were able to support your roommate through her experience even while you are going through your own challenges. You have so much spirit and courage to share. Glad to hear you are getting up and around and that you’ll be able to leave the hospital soon. We are thinking of you everyday at school. Everyone sends their best wishes and prayers. Take care. We’ll be in touch again soon. Millie
  6. Joy Says:
    October 27th, 2005 at 10:27 pm It is these times that we as humans seem to live every precious moment. Our eyes and hearts are open and raw to life. Colors are brighter, smells powerful, love insurmountable. While so many are in there daily routines numbly walking through life, you are so damn alive. How beautiful you two are.
  7. Nomi Pearce Says:
    October 28th, 2005 at 12:05 am Dearest Sandy, My Mom forwarded me a email from your Mom with your latest news. I have been reading your incredible journal and blog. I loved seeing photos of you, Cameron, your Mom and Dad, and your wonderful Dan! I am so moved by your gentle courage and powerful commitment to live in this difficult moment and find beauty, joy, and laughter. You guys rock! Love, Nomi (Jo)
  8. April, Jerry and Casey Prey Says:
    October 28th, 2005 at 12:06 am Hi Sandy, Just a quick note to say we are thinking of you. Glad everything is going well. Hope to see you soon. April, Jerry and Casey Prey
  9. pk Says:
    October 28th, 2005 at 1:20 am I offer thanks for the heartfelt gift of your sharing with all of us. Sandy - YOU GO GIRL! Dan, incredibly powerful energy in your writing. WOW! Once again you two totally blow me away. You guys are indomitable. Hey, Cameron, you are right on. There is no doubt where you get your spark from. Playing in my head = lyrics of a song first heard in the heart of the Grand Canyon - “…we must carry on, we must be strong and fearless, we must be fearless. Counting on help from above. Trust in the power of love. We must be fearless, fearless, fearless…” At the time, it had strong meaning while scouting the rapids, especially for the initiates. More recently those lyrics have held more personal import. Now, they come to mind once again with renewed spirit. Keep the faith, feel the healing force. I love you guys! p.s. Heaps of thanks and gratitude to everyone, inside and outside of this site, for uniting in the power of love.
  10. Luke Says:
    October 28th, 2005 at 8:44 am Wow, this blog is so powerful. dan’o and Sandy, thanks so much for sharing this journey you are on with us. I don’t feel as though I can write anything that can come close to being as eloquent as you have written. Once again I want you to know that we are all pulling for you, thinking and feeling the need to be here for you, somehow. Please let me know if there are any unfinished tasks at home that will help you return to a peaceful environment. We love you guys! Luke
  11. Caryn O\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\'Connor and mom Says:
    October 28th, 2005 at 10:16 am A note from mom in Waldport. I am increasingly amazed with both of you! What incredible people. Sandy, your courage is glowing through Dan’s resports. His descriptions of everything are marvelous and makes one feel that they are there with you. Think these messages should be turned into a wonderful encouraging book for anyone and especially for those facing challenges. Love to you both and also to your support team in Palo Alto. Carolyn
  12. pat & heather Says:
    October 28th, 2005 at 11:06 am Good Morning this Friday a.m. – the Icicle bald eagle pair are using their nestsite as a roost, probably feeding on the spawned out salmon so abundant in the river. Yesterday morning I went down your road, intending to observe and draw the eagles. But I couldn’t, I realized I need Sandy (and PK), it just won’t be right until we can do it together, so, I’ll wait. How did your home look? Cozy and welcoming, with that dynamite view and the fall foliage and the wagging doggie tails and piles of fire wood and the neighbor’s new “Graj Mahal”. Today there are fresh snows on Wedge & Icicle Ridge, yet it rained down here all night (0.4” in the rain gauge). 10/26/05 Tina R & I volunteered for the elk project on Mission Ridge, LOTS of ELK POOPIES, gorgeous work weather, and then it snowed right after we left. We had a fabulous day and sent prayers and our strength of friendship to you for healing – from the high country to the valley bottoms – with love. Pat says he and Babs check out the blog site frequently throughout the day, and everyone at work (and Dan’s Food Mart and Safeway and the gas station and Sage Mtn and A Book For All Seasons and church and…) is thinking constantly of you two. This is a wonderful way we can all be a part of your experience, trying to be there every step of your difficult way, and let you know about life back here ~ your admirers, champions, and loving friends – Heather, Pat, Clover, Prunie and Rufous
  13. Lee and Anna Says:
    October 28th, 2005 at 12:34 pm Sandy’s first gulps of fresh air –YIPP-EEE! I just realized how long we’ve been holding our breath. How wonderful it is to draw in huge lungfuls of autumn-scented, rain-washed Icicle air!! Looking forward to you guys being back and doing the same. Your neighbors, Lee and Anna
  14. Tina Rieman Says:
    October 28th, 2005 at 1:18 pm Hi Dan and Sandy: It is so special to share your experiences with you through your wonderful blog site. Yes, Heather and I had you strongly in our thoughts during our day together at Mission Ridge doing her Elk thing. You are in my thoughts particlarly when I’m outside close to the natural world and the powers that be (whoever/whatever that he/she power is), the energy that gives us strength, a sense of humor, resiliency and acceptance. You are surrounded by love. Tina R (and Dick, too)
  15. Annie and Aaron Schmidt Says:
    October 28th, 2005 at 1:22 pm What a wonderful thing, to be in the fresh air again. You are both couragous. This is one of my favorite quotes - today, when I read it, I thought of the two of you. “Every passage has its beacon. Every shadow has its light. We must therefore keep watch, my friend, keep watch.” Captain Brenner Tate You encourage everyone to keep watch - just as you do each day. For angels, for sunlight, for friendship, and for love.
  16. eric and glenna beardsley Says:
    October 28th, 2005 at 2:42 pm My dearest Sandy, Your mom sent us the information today regarding your present situation..I have read through all your diaries and your husband’s notes on the events of each day. SO informative..and you are both such great writers…Your husband has a way of describing moments, setings, feelings, that one can feel present in the spirit with him..with you..in your diary notes, and the invitation to your celebration party some years ago,…you described your picket fence..purple…I have seen that fence and remember it, and thought an artist must live there..and there you were.. When I think of you as a young child, you were so precious, mischievious, and delightful..so easy to love and to enjoy…and I am so happy that your mom entrusted you to my care, and that you and Nomi Jo had those early precious moments together… I am so impressed with the care your nurses and doctors are giving to you..the way they are upfront and understanding with the needs of both of you. Ellensburg is golden and red in the glory of the trees…and our back yard is completely covered…Jimmie wants to rake before he leaves for Argentina and his “mountain climbing job”…I tell him “No”..he has tooooo much to do to worry about our leaves…he says raking leaves is fun…I sure wouldn’t want to take some fun away from him… Thanks for the informaation about your son, what a handsome and succesful young man. I know how proud your parents are of him…and of you…and how much they love Dan….take care…with love for you today..and always…Donna Nylander
  17. Elizabeth Daniel Says:
    October 28th, 2005 at 3:39 pm I told Sandy that I would send a kid story to make her laugh. I picked a Cullen story. Cullen came and woke me up a few Sundays ago, rather urgently. He pointed at the clock and said it was 10:03 and we had already missed mass. (He hasn’t figured out that I’m not stupid.) “Mom, I’m sorry, we didn’t know that you were still asleep. I guess we’ve missed mass.” Looking outside, I knew it was earlier and knew he had changed our clock. I said that we could hurry up and go to the Spanish mass they have at the school and be a little late. Well, he didn’t want to do that and had all sorts of excuses and then I hit him with the accusation of clock tampering. Needless to say, we made mass in E. Wen. I don’t know if he has realized it, but if he were really smart, he would have closed the door, so I wouldn’t hear the arguing that happens daily, let me sleep, and we really would have missed it. Also, there are about 3 more clocks in the house to change. Sandy, everything sounds good down south. Hope you’re keeping warm because it’s getting cold here.

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