Bruce Lynn Ricks

Bruce Lynn Ricks, also fondly referred to as Brucey and Pops, died of pancreatic cancer on October 24, 2016 in his Sunnyside home with his sweetheart, Jeanie, by his side. He was 66 years old.

He is survived by his wife Jeanie or as he often called her, “Glo Jean,” his children: Lindsay (Travis) Benedict, Sterling (Chelsea) Ricks, Jamie (Jordan) Nugent, Tyler Ricks, Nikki (Brandon Crockett) Ricks, and his grandchildren: Max, Brooklyn, Brynlee, Lucy, Liam, Bernadette, Annie, Sloane and Romy and brother Barry Ricks. Bruce was preceded in death by his son Scott Kelley Ricks and his parents Theodore Lynn Ricks and Donna Huskinson Ricks.

Bruce was born in Tacoma, Washington on January 29, 1950 and adopted by parents Theodore Lynn Ricks and Donna Huskinson Ricks. From a young age his parents instilled in him the importance of hard work which shaped him into the man he became.

At 19, he served a two-year LDS mission in Florida, where he spread the gospel of Jesus Christ. When he returned, he attended Ricks College in Idaho where he met the love of his life, Jeanie, at a party where she was serving chocolate chip cookies. It was love at first sight for both of them – “it felt like thunder as I approached him,” Jeanie always said.

They were married in the Salt Lake City Temple for time and all eternity on January 10, 1973. Their early marriage was an adventure that took them everywhere from Utah to Washington, where they held jobs managing a drive-in movie theater (and making a home under the screen), beekeeping, and farming.

Bruce and Jeanie settled in Sunnyside, Washington where he started his insurance business, which grew to be known as “Bruce Ricks and Associates,” and they raised their five children. His business was successful not only because of his tireless dedication to hard work, but because he loved and connected with all of his clients, and treated them like family.

In Sunnyside he became an important part of the community, and committed himself to serving others. He served in a variety of LDS church callings, including Bishop and member of the High Counsel. He also served on City Council, and volunteered much of his time to causes like Sunnyside Promise and E.S.D. He was also known throughout the community as the owner of “The Dog” – a Dodge truck that he turned into a dump truck and a snow plow so he could help out his friends and neighbors.

Bruce enjoyed mountain climbing and was able to climb to the top of Mount Adams, one of his life goals. He also loved spending time with his family and in his later years he was a beloved “Pops” to all of his grandchildren. When he found out his pancreatic cancer had returned, his final wish was to live to see his two granddaughters, Romy and Annie, born. He was able to meet both of them before he passed.

Bruce’s motto was “Every day is sunshine” and he embodied that principle throughout his life. His legacy of hard work and service will live on in the people who were blessed to know him.

Viewing and visitation will be held Thursday, October 27, 2016 from 4:00 to 6:00 pm at Smith Funeral Home in Sunnyside, WA and Friday, October 28, 2016 from 9:30 to 11:00 am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Sunnyside, WA. Funeral  services will be Friday, October 28, 2016 at 11:00 am at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Sunnyside, WA with burial to follow at Lower Valley Memorial Gardens in Sunnyside, WA. Those wishing to sign Bruce’s online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com. Donations can be made in his name to Life Options, www.lofriends.org, 509-882-8299. Smith Funeral Homes in care of arrangements.

CT Resullts

Before I get started, this is a good news update.

Three months ago we discovered that the pancreatic cancer was back and that it had found a home in other locations in my body. We made the decision to go ahead with a series of chemo treatments, every other week now for 6 weeks till August 1st. I had a very aggressive cocktail of chemo administered. After the 6th treatment, I basically felt completely exhausted and felt that the cancer had advanced. So much for my self-diagnosis. A CT scan was performed August 16th, it seems in all cases where there has been cancer, each one has been reduced in size by 20 to 25%. The chemo has been doing a job on the cancer, as well as me.

Dr. Weaver (a true angel in doctor clothes) came to our house last Monday and worked us through this turn of events, "it seems you keep defying the odds" he laughed, as did we, while we tried to get out heads around this new information.

Fast forward to today, we met with the oncologist, Dr. Hague (Hawk), and I'm able to take a 4-week holiday/vacation and grab some quality time and then look at options going forward.

Since beginning this trek we had 2 daughters that were due to have babies in the near future and I so wanted to be here to greet them. Check, Romy Day Ricks Crockett was born over 30 days ago and Annie Jewel Nugent was born this last week. We will be able to hold cuddle and love on each of them in the coming week, too cool.

So we are setting new goals.

When we began this leg of the challenge we were asking for prayers of comfort because healing seemed distant. Now I am not healed, but as close as the Lord could get to it at this time He has granted this, and yet all during this time we have felt the comfort of all prayers asked. All of your prayers and offering and calls and cards and hugs and winks of good wishes have bolstered us up. When you kneel once again please thank Father for the comfort and the time that He has seen fit to extend my stay. I cannot tell you in any way the many blessing that has been from our Fathers grace because He has listened. There has been an out pouring of love He has seen fit to extend to Jeanie and me.

I also want you to know of my love for my angel, Jeanie. She has smiled through tears and been at my side with every treatment and mood swing, the best. We gesture a signal between us that represents "you and me babe" often and we can now keep doing that for a time.

Love those around you each day. Thanks for being a part of this journey with us. Our love to you seems small in consideration of all the love extend to us. We love you all.

On to new goals,

Bruce and Jeanie

4 down, 8 to go!

Last Thursday was my 4th, in a series of 12, chemo treatment. After the 6th treatment we will do a CT to determine whether we are telling the cancer to "go sit in the corner and shut up for a while" or if it has advanced some (or a lot, we may make new plans). The most recent blood tests were good as the tumor markers have a downturn trend (not significant, but downward) and the other blood indicators are favorable. The chemo treatments are rigorous - I go in every other Thursday all day, and then pack a portable injector for 44 hours after that.

We are not able to go to Chicago for Brandon and Nikki's little girl's birth this week as I am just too much at risk right now, but we are so anxious to hear of their baby girls' arrival. Jamie's baby is due next month in Boise. The end of August seems a ways off, but we might be able to be present for that baby girl's birth.

The support from all friends and family has been stellar - cookies, fruit, apple sauce, breads, cards and flowers left each morning by Jim Stevens (Thank you, Jim, for your persistent support!) calls, winks, hugs and prayers of comfort and peace have been overwhelming.

Jeanie and I are being cradled in the arms of all we come in contact with. The Lord has sent each of you into our world and you have brought us peace and comfort.

We are truly blessed and our gratitude is eternal.

EVERY DAY IS SUNSHINE!

-Bruce

Recent News

Hi Friends and Family,

We wanted to post a brief update on Bruce. We found out in April that his cancer is back. A routine scan showed that his cancer has reoccurred in his pancreas, and spread to his liver. Because of this his prognosis has changed significantly. His number one priority is to maximize his quality of life and spend as much time with the people he loves as possible. He is currently undergoing chemotherapy in an effort to prolong the time that he have left with us.

Last week our entire family was able to be together on the Oregon Coast. There was lots of beach time, card playing and bonding. We're thankful for every moment we have. Below is a picture of Gramie and Pops with Sloane, Nikki's daughter. This bench over-looked the ocean, and was the perfect spot to watch all the family play in the sand and water.

Thanks to you all for your on-going love and support to our family.

Love,

The Ricks Family

Update & hopefully the last post!

Since the last update I had a clean CT 3 months ago and at that time had some elevated blood indicators but no alerts. Now, three months later I can report that not only the CT but also the blood reports, as well cancer markers, are very conclusive to the fact that each one is in a very positive and trending NORMAL direction. My energy is very good, and I also have to factor in age, ya think, when thinking that I am not where I want to be--it is nice to be OLDER.

I have achieved a bucket list task and have set a "person best" record in that I HAD 2, COUNT THEM, 2 granddaughters in less than 30 days. Brynlee and Bernadette -- yahoo for me!! Since then we have found out that Dale and Dane Smith are trying to help their dad break my record by both their wives being due the same day (go figure).

When we counseled with Dr. Hauk, my oncologist, on June 29th, and he reviewed the blood work, I could tell he was tempted to not recommend the next CT in 3 months, because of all the good indicators. But staying true to form of caution, I am scheduled for another one in 3.

I can truthfully express to all the miracle I have experienced due to God allowing me to stay and the overwhelming love extended by all.

I am back, living! I am not sure what is in store tomorrow, as you all are not, but I do know that today I am trying to live and appreciate air, sunsets, baby cries, hearing about dirty diapers, skylanders, hulk, princesses (too many to name), skyping with a rubber duck in hand, getting giggles all the way from Chicago, and hearing my bride say that I am still "her favorite". Living, ain't it great!

Thank you Father. And thank you all.

All my love - now go live.

The Bruce

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas!


 

Christmas Update

Well, since the last posting, I have had 2 CT's showing no signs of issues (cancer). So now, instead of doing CT's every 3 months, we are discontinuing them and doing blood draws every 3 months watching for cancer markers.

It is so hard to go from "you're going to probably die" to the word CURED. Still trying to get my head around the reversal, and recognizing the Lords hand, the support from so, so, so many, and my wonderful bride that held my hand at every juncture in this journey.

You also know that you're on a good path when the port that was implanted in your chest has been removed (on Nov. 21st). It was a happy Thanks just before Thanksgiving. We are giving thanks in so many ways that I am having a hard time counting them.

I was asked, many times, what my "bucket list" was. I thought about this and melted it down to the fact that I wanted my grandchildren to remember me so I needed to stay for that and to my pleasure at this writing announce that our family is expecting 2 more of those choice spirits next year! The bestest!

Also I have noted that the Lord looked at taking me, and noting that I am a bit of a handful, and that Jeanie has me better trained, decided to leave me here to continue giving ya'll a bit of heartburn. I am the most blessed guy you know and praise our Father in Heaven for granting me this extended stay.

Hug all those you can, and squeeze extra hard.

May this Christmas season bring you all of the blessings the Lord has in store for us, even trials that strengthen our ties to Him. Here's a fantastic Christmas video for your viewing pleasure.

. 

Our Love,
Bruce and Jeanie

11 Months

Hi Friends and Family, 

Pasted below is an email my Dad sent to our family a couple days ago. It's been a long, crazy, strenuous 11 months, but we're so very grateful for all the good news we've received lately - and for all the hope we have for a great future together. 

Here's a picture of the old guy. He's been walking every morning to help build up his endurance and strength. (Nice red pants, Dad.) ;)

Love to all, 

Jamie

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Family,

Yup, it has been 11 months to the day, 6-2, since I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and I am writing you all to tell you that I am still getting the very best of care from doctors, as well family.

Last Friday I did an extensive blood work up. The following morning, Dr Weaver called with the results and until I get the printout suffice it to say he wanted us to hear the good news that all my levels are in great shape!

Then yesterday, Monday the 2nd (anniversary 11 months ago) I went for a CT scan, and at 5:36 Dr Mandell called to say that she had good news - "basically there is nothing bad." The tiny things in the lungs that were a concern remain the same and we feel it is normal old scar tissue and unrelated to the cancer!!!!! The tumor markers had been at 17.75 but were down to 12.9 - all good trending and safe levels. So it seems that doctors like to give good news and I am blessed to have them in my life.

I will be going to Dr. Hague on the 12th for a eye to eye evaluation from him regarding the CT, and I doubt that there is anything different he will tell us, but we are looking forward to his prognosis.

As always, I am the most blessed guy you all know and am blessed to have you all in my life.

So looking forward to more contact with all of you soon!


All my love,


Dad

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Great News!

The following post was written by my dear sweet Mom:

SCARY WEEK!
We were really looking forward to last Wednesday because it was going to be Bruce's last day of radiation but, after his treatment on Tuesday we met with his doctor who was quite surprised at how poorly he looked and felt. As it turns out, his blood pressure was very low and he was dehydrated, among other things. Fortunately, he has a port so they were able to hook him up and give him two liters of fluid which made him feel better but, because he was in a weakened state the doctor felt like there may be something wrong with his liver so she ordered a ct scan and blood workup. We sat on pins and needles waiting for the results (which we would find out the following Monday) and wondering with fearful anticipation.

GOOD RESULTS!
It's hard to describe the relief we felt when Dr. Mandell told us that his ct scan was good and his labs looked great. It has been a long, long road (nine months) to get to this point. Surgery-done! Chemotherapy-done! Radiation-done! The doctors will forevermore need to keep an eye on Bruce but for now, get some strength back and GAIN SOME WEIGHT PLEASE!

THANK YOU!
Everyone has been so supportive and caring. We can't imagine going through something as intense as this without the love of family and friends. Our children have been an amazing source of strength to us. They have gone above and beyond so, we want to publicly express our appreciation and say, 'WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH!' Also, we know that we have received the blessing of 'life' from our Heavenly Father. It would be an understatement to say that we have been incredibly stirred to our core by this blessing and in all humility publicly thank Him.

To the staff, thank you for always greeting me with warmth!

It's a tradition to ring the bell when you finish your radiation treatments.
Ring a ding!

Thank you Dr. Mandell! We think the world of you!

This wonderful group of people helped make my radiation experience the best that it could be!

With love and thanks to all, Bruce and Jeanie

Pink and Purses

Dr. Sue A. Mandell, Medical Director Radiation Oncologist, is Dads new doctor. My parents "absolutely love her!" They feel she is knowledgeable but knows how to explain things in layman's terms. Also, she is happy to answer all of my Dads questions. Dr . Mandell (or like my Dad likes to call her Mandella) had him pegged the first visit. She said "You are a Type A personality that has a lot of questions, and I'm willing to answer them all."

Dad will have 28 total radiation treatments, 3 down, 25 to go. In addition to that he will have chemo pumped into his chest 24/7 hence the black shoulder strap chemo bag which holds the machine.
My Mom really liked this picture of my Dad with his pink shirt and purse. Do with that what you will.

On a personal note - I read this essay in the NYT this last week, about a young man having cancer and his thoughts on how long he has left. I know a lot of us have family and friends who have dealt with similar feelings and situations.

We love you all.

We received great news today!

1st of all--GOOD NEWS-- I GET TO GO TO THE NEXT LEVEL OF TREATMENT AND GET RADIATION/CHEMO!!!! The meeting with Dr Haque was very good and encouraging--there seems to be no advanced lymph's, nodules or juvenile (my words) tumors in the CT scan comparatives--Great News! There were some nodules that showed up on the scan, but they existed prior, and in the words of the Radiation Dr. "if we scanned my lungs I have some--everyone does"--so that is more good news--Also, the existing nodules are really small--largest is 3 mm. We walked down the hall to the Radiation Clinic and met Dr. Sue Mandell--(I call her Mandella) she is a straight shooter and both of us really liked her-- She, after the dust settled, was very very encouraged with my current health, weight (I am currently up to 160 lbs from a low of 148), and elements of treatment so far--she confirmed that the CT scan looked good and advised us that the treatment regime is going to be 5 and 1/2 weeks and not 8 weeks--(made my day) but this still will not be a walk in the park-- They are going to deliver 50.4 grey at a rate of 1.8 grey per day--that info was for Jordan-- I will start as soon as the 27th or as late as the 3rd-- The Doc is working up a mapping and virtual configuration to induce the radiation. She is also going to try to do a delivery system called I.M.R.T.--Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy--a more precise delivery (a step in the direction of proton) which would lessen the chance of scaring and other adverse side affects/collateral damage...so we like that idea too. She was frank about the 50/50 chance that I will be diabetic after these treatments----However, 50/50 odds have served me well to this point-- At the end of the 5 1/2 weeks we repeat the CT and blood to check the cancer markers and see if there are any issues--if none then I go into a monitor schedule of every 3 months CT and blood ---this is as good of news as we could ever ask for --even the fact that I "GET TO GO THRU RAD/CHEMO" On a parting note with Dr. H--I confirmed that we are still going for "cure" --and he said yes very distinctly CURE!!! I also asked him how many pancreatic patients he was now treating and he said 5-6 and I asked how I compared---he said that all the others were metastasized and on that note we all realized just how UNBELIEVABLY BLESSED I HAVE BEEN-- So--bottom line--I can take anything for 5 1/2 weeks--with prayer and love from ya'll-- I can't thank you all adequately enough for the love that Jeanie and I have felt-- All my love, Bruce (Pops)

*Picture from Christmas with Jamie and Jordan who were able to visit!*

Ricks Family Christmas Video!

Stay tuned for bloopers at the end!



Merry Christmas!

Pizza! Pizza!

Jamie here. I'm sitting in the kitchen with my dad in a postprandial coma. Yes, that means the Brucie is eating well, feeling full, and gaining weight like a champ. Since the last post, he has seen several improvements. He's been actively working and driving, but is still hesitant to be in contact with too many people at a time due to his low immune system. Thanksgiving marked an important milestone, when he was able to partake of every dish on the table! He's now looking forward to the same satisfaction with the upcoming Christmas dinner.

Dad will be starting his 6th series of chemo on Dec.26th. A cat scan is scheduled to happen around January 13th, which will give us a good idea about if the chemo has been successful. Following the cat scan, he will begin his 7th and final chemo series combined with radiation for 6 straight weeks, for 5 days a week. Unfortunately, he won't be able to receive this treatment from home and will be making daily trips up to the Tri-Ciites. This should be completed by the end of February.

He's starting to make plans, some of them include a day hike up to Camp Muir on Mt. Rainier on July 4th and a family reunion with all of his kids and grand-kids on the Oregon coast in late summer. Having fun plans on the calendar are good incentives, and fun to look forward to for all of us.

Brucie is up to 156 lbs (thank you, mama Ricks for your amazing cooking). His latest obsession is cheap, cheese, carb-loaded pizza from Safeway. 3 pizzas for 10 bucks. Can't beat a deal like that, if that's what you're cravin'. His energy is up. He would tell you he's the "healthiest chemo patient you'll ever meet." (and the most blessed).

With Christmas a couple days away, my husband Jordan and I are so very grateful to be able to spend this time with my mom and dad. He's leaps and bounds better than he was a few months ago. It makes this daughter's heart happy. So very happy. In the spirit of Christmas, and on behalf on both of my parents, thank you for your gifts of faith, love and prayer.

Stay tuned  - the next post will include our annual Christmas family video. Prepare yourselves for some amazing lip-sinking and dance moves that might haunt you in your sleep.

Love to all and Merry, Merry Christmas!

Jamie

November Update

Brandon, Sloane and I were able to go to Washington a couple of weeks ago and spend some much needed time together. Sloane and Dad still seem to have similarities... gradually adding new foods into their diets and seeing if there's any reaction.

Dad starts his fifth round of chemo on November 26th! He receives the treatments on Thursdays and then tries to rest over the weekend and is typically able to go into the office Monday-Wednesday for a couple of hours. Although his weight is low, he's been able to maintain it so that's a huge plus. 

My parents are having some issues with insurance and treatment options which can be a frustrating process but they are working through all of it.

They want to say thank you for the love and support and also ask for prayers at this time especially for the upcoming PET scan.

Half Way Mark & Visit from the Millers

My dad reached his "half way through chemo" mark this week, not sure if you get a chip for that or not.. but you should! ;-) He is continuing to heal and gain strength since the surgery. His weight has stabilized and he is going to his office more frequently. All great things! This week my parents are consulting with some doctors to determine if Proton Therapy or the standard form of Radiation will be the best suited treatment. We will let you know how that turns out. My parents had a wonderful visit from my mom's sister and husband. My Aunt Judi and Uncle Tom came in from California to spend some time with the folks. While I was growing up our families took turns travelling to visit each other every summer. We have very fond memories of the Miller clan. I know it meant a lot to my parents to have them visit.

Every day is "Thanks Giving" around here...

I realize Halloween is still around the corner and there will be no Turkey for my dad this year. But at the Ricks' house it is Thanksgiving every day. Last week was a really good week for my dad. He is 90% healed from the whipple surgery and has even gained 4 pounds! (This can be credited to the persistent love and care of my mom.) It was also his week off chemo, so his energy was up and he was able to go the office and also Church on Sunday (as long as he wore a surgical mask.) Unfortunately for the next few months being in crowds or around young children is still not encouraged. He did the math on his church attendance and concluded he has missed more Church service in the last three months than combining his entire life of missed church service. (You could say he is the Brett Farve of Church goers.) He felt very uplifted to be able to attend Church last week and also to listen to LDS General Conference this weekend. Dad just started his third round of Chemo this week. We were highly encouraged by the oncologist who indicated they will probably do a CT Scan the end of his 4th round and radiation might be moved up a few months. This is very good news and we are looking at the different options available including the possibility of Proton therapy. We will know more the end of this series and/or possibly the fourth, but so far things look very good based on his blood work and how his body is responding to the treatment. My visit home and been so nice and I have really cherished this time with my parents. They are such amazing people and examples in my life and I continue to learn from them each day. They have always been the utmost example of hard work and gratitude and that has been magnified during this time. I love listening to their prayers of gratitude and love for the small things each day; food, a visitor and even chemo treatment. They have been so touched by the out pour of love and support and especially the prayers and notes in their behalf. ***On a side note, I would like to point out that I did not give my dad the wrong pills while visiting or cause any comas. :-) However, I did entrust Jamie and Nikki with my precious babies so I could come spend time with my parents. They have been having the time of their lives with their Aunties in Chicago. So a special thanks to them as well for making my visit happen! ;-)

*Sleep coma and SAA*

The last week has been full of events, progress and sleeeeeeeep. Yesterday, I accidentally gave my dad a pain killer instead of an anti-nausea pill, which in turn knocked him out cold for a solid 12 hours. Woops! A little sleep never hurt anyone. Sorry pops for the mix up, but hey, if you're sleeping, it's hard to be nauseated. Right?

A couple nights ago, the young women from my parents' church and their leaders spent time making my dad a super warm, super soft, and super healing blanket of love. And in my dad's words "It warms my body AND my heart." A huge thank you to all who were involved and the efforts put into "warming" my dad up.

Dad's weight loss has slowed. He's lost only a couple more pounds, and we think it's probably due to the fact that he's taking so many walks these days, and is more active than before. Now, we need to work on getting more calories in him to support his activities. He's also feeling confident that his body has just about completely healed from the whipple procedure, and that any pain/discomfort/side effects are more than likely attributed to chemo.

Last weekend I got the opportunity to participate in the Swim Across America event in Seattle. Jordan (my husband) was able to fly in for the weekend and spend time with my parents, and participate in the event also. Team Bruce consisted of several individuals who love and care for my dad. Over the past couple months, our team has hustled and bustled for donations for this cause. All funds went directly to Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, which is where my Dad received his initial treatment and recovery, and is getting is chemo treatment via their Tri Cities Oncology site. Also, as the cherry on top, donations this year go specifically to a Pancreas Cancer Developmental Research Program to help design new and optimize current treatments for pancreatic cancer. It was a special, emotional, and fulfilling day. An additional highlight of the day was randomly running into my dad's whipple surgeon after the swim, Dr. Pillarisetty. It was nice to be able to spend time with him and thank him for saving my dad's life. Dr. P is also involved in charity work - to access his fundraiser, click here: http://getinvolved.fhcrc.org/site/TR/Events/Obliteride?px=1474132&pg=personal&fr_id=1300. I'm so happy to have been a part of something that brought loved ones of my dad together, and will hopefully have an impact on his specific type of cancer. A special thanks to Charlie Cunnick for leading our team in such a successful event, trekking all the way out to Seattle for it, and giving us an avenue to involve ourselves in something near to our hearts and that will have such a positive impact. Thank you to everyone who participated as team members and also everyone who made a donation. Team The Bruce was amazing, and hit it out of the ballpark by raising just under $10,500 (before corporate matching funds - which will put us over 12k). To view our team page or to make a donation (you still can!) click here: http://www.swimacrossamerica.org/site/TR/OpenWater/Seattle?pg=team&fr_id=1959&team_id=7671     Thank you, all!

I fly home tomorrow with a heavy heart. Being at home with my parents has been wonderful. It's been a special time, and I've cherished the conversations we've had, and even under the trying circumstances, I will cherish the new memories we've made - especially the SAA event, and even the sleep coma I accidentally induced on my dad.

Love to all,

Jamie

Up! Up! Up!

Hello all!

Jamie here. I'm in Washington again with my parents, happy to be back out, helping, and spending time. Last week was my Dad's week off of chemo, and it was a week full of progress. He's healed enough from his surgery now that he doesn't hate the thought of food. His weight loss has topped off for the time being. He was even able to make it down to the his office for a few hours! And most importantly, his spirits are up up up - he's even considering doing pranks on people, which says a lot. (Watch out!)

This week he was back on his chemo schedule. Making trips to the chemo center each week has been surprisingly inspiring. As you walk into the building, there are huge iron pillars, that have been crunched and bent, representing the strength it takes to maintain optimism through situations like my Dad's.

 

My Dad and the rest of our family is pulling strength from so many of you out there. This week, he received some special get well bracelets from the Burns kids! He wore them everywhere with pride, including to his chemo appointment. Thank you, Burns family!

This weekend, myself, and several fans of Brucie are heading to Seattle to participate in a swim fundraising event that we've been working on for a few months. All funds raised go to Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, where my Dad is receiving his treatment. My dear friend, Charlie, headed up Team Bruce in honor of my dad, and the support of friends from far and wide has been amazing! To view our team page click here: http://www.swimacrossamerica.org/site/TR/OpenWater/Seattle?team_id=7671&pg=team&fr_id=1959.

Overall, things are looking up for my Dad. We have a lot to be grateful for with all of the progress he's making. He still has hard moments sometimes, but is a trooper and feels all of your prayers and well wishes.

Love to all,

Jamie

Sterlings Visit and Update

Thursday of last week was one of Dads worst days. A pretty violent vomiting spell left him feeling weaker than ever before.

Dads digestive system is finally working a little better, but we hesitate to really give any updates because things seem to change so quickly. He's able to eat more food and more of a variety of foods but it's by trial and error because some have an adverse effect, bread seems to be one. Unfortunately, he's still losing weight.

The shot Mom gave him Sunday worked because the Neutrophils ABS (white blood cell count) results went from 1.3 last week to 5.7 and he was able to have his chemotherapy treatment on Tuesday. Those shots pack a pretty powerful punch because Monday he was totally wiped out.

Thank you Sterling for coming from Utah to help out. Sterling asked Dad to make a list of chores which he has completed. What a strength he's been to our Dad!

Thank you little Charlie Quigley for the painted hands that have provided hugs to Dad. How cute are those little hands! What a warm and thoughtful gift.



Everyone has been so thoughtful, caring and respectful. Know that we are sending love and hugs back to all of you.

Treatment Update

Uncle Jim rode his motorcycle from California last weekend to visit. Doesn't he look so cool? My parents really enjoyed having him. Thanks for making the trip Uncle Jim!

Dad had his second chemotherapy treatment yesterday. Through the blood work we found out that his Neutrophils ABS (a type of white blood cell) went from 6.0 to 1.3 in a weeks time. If it falls below 1.0 he cannot continue with the chemo treatment. Mom will give him a shot of Neupogen (stimulates the bone marrow to help produce white blood cells) before his next treatment. 

With all of this going on Dad is extremely susceptible to germs and being exposed to illness could be detrimental. So please be aware when you're visiting and again, children unfortunately are discouraged.

The cards, children's drawings and pictures have all been kept and put on metal rings for Dad to look at and remember that he's loved. Thanks for continuing to send those.

We really appreciate the outpouring of love and concern that have come by way of prayers,cards, visits, goodies, phone calls and text messages. We love you and thank you.