Just a heads up if you see Candy and the boys around town over the next couple of weeks, they have some birthdays coming up. Max will turn 10 next Friday, April 22nd and Simon turns 5 May 31st. This will be their first B-days without their Pappa, so I imagine it may be tough. Any love you can send their way would be appreciated.
-- Rich Ekman
Please share your memories...
Friday, April 15, 2011
Monday, March 14, 2011
March Update from Candy
Hello Everyone,
I have completed my first month back at work at part-time, it is all I can handle for now. My supervisors were kind enough to give me a small caseload of what we call "Healthy Families" along with screening first-time parents in the hospitals.
I just recently attended a meeting at an alternative school that I am interested in signing both boys up for. Their entrance into the school will be contingent on the outcome of the school's lottery. Cross your fingers their names will be pulled!
Max is excited to be playing the recorder at school and looks forward to participate in the school talent show in the Spring sometime. He is excited about the idea of attending a new school and meeting new friends. He has been playing on a basketball team and has done a wonderful job of staying focused. He has a wonderful coach who is patient and able to communicate with him at a level he understands. Thank you to our friends who help carpool him to practice and who come and cheer him on at his games:)
Simon is happy at the farm and comes home excited to share the things he is learning there on school days (he actually throws a tantrum sometimes when he is told it is not a school day at the farm). What parent wouldn't grin ear to ear when they hear their child demanding to have a school day? He has been taking swim lessons and has shown a great enthusiasm to master swimming like a fish. This has been fun to do a couple times a week because several other friends coordinated with me to have their children take lessons at the same time. We all encourage and praise each of the kids and help carpool them to lessons together. Jason and I always loved the idea of raising the kids to have close connections to our dear friends and their children.
On a sour note, I learned that someone has filed for taxes and received their tax return after utilizing Jason's SS#. I'm trying to keep focused on the possibility that it was just a mistake that wasn't caught by that person (a typo on the SS#?) and not someone trying to take advantage of our loss and dishonor my husband. It's a pretty shitty thing!
Today was emotional at times....had a fleeting moment where I thought I should call up J and share some news someone had shared with me... but in the same instant remembered I couldn't. My heart had a sharp stab of pain in that instant that made me gasp for breath. Another where I was approached by people who wanted to share their condolescants thus bringing me to tears once again. Then tonight after reading books at bedtime to the boys they wanted to see my wedding dress.... we talked about the day and reason why their daddy and I got married. Once again bringing me to tears. Max said to me "Daddy says he's here" and all of us had a group hug and cried. Very sad and miss my J very very much!
This is all I can share at this time.....
Candy
I have completed my first month back at work at part-time, it is all I can handle for now. My supervisors were kind enough to give me a small caseload of what we call "Healthy Families" along with screening first-time parents in the hospitals.
I just recently attended a meeting at an alternative school that I am interested in signing both boys up for. Their entrance into the school will be contingent on the outcome of the school's lottery. Cross your fingers their names will be pulled!
Max is excited to be playing the recorder at school and looks forward to participate in the school talent show in the Spring sometime. He is excited about the idea of attending a new school and meeting new friends. He has been playing on a basketball team and has done a wonderful job of staying focused. He has a wonderful coach who is patient and able to communicate with him at a level he understands. Thank you to our friends who help carpool him to practice and who come and cheer him on at his games:)
Simon is happy at the farm and comes home excited to share the things he is learning there on school days (he actually throws a tantrum sometimes when he is told it is not a school day at the farm). What parent wouldn't grin ear to ear when they hear their child demanding to have a school day? He has been taking swim lessons and has shown a great enthusiasm to master swimming like a fish. This has been fun to do a couple times a week because several other friends coordinated with me to have their children take lessons at the same time. We all encourage and praise each of the kids and help carpool them to lessons together. Jason and I always loved the idea of raising the kids to have close connections to our dear friends and their children.
On a sour note, I learned that someone has filed for taxes and received their tax return after utilizing Jason's SS#. I'm trying to keep focused on the possibility that it was just a mistake that wasn't caught by that person (a typo on the SS#?) and not someone trying to take advantage of our loss and dishonor my husband. It's a pretty shitty thing!
Today was emotional at times....had a fleeting moment where I thought I should call up J and share some news someone had shared with me... but in the same instant remembered I couldn't. My heart had a sharp stab of pain in that instant that made me gasp for breath. Another where I was approached by people who wanted to share their condolescants thus bringing me to tears once again. Then tonight after reading books at bedtime to the boys they wanted to see my wedding dress.... we talked about the day and reason why their daddy and I got married. Once again bringing me to tears. Max said to me "Daddy says he's here" and all of us had a group hug and cried. Very sad and miss my J very very much!
This is all I can share at this time.....
Candy
Link to video of Memorial Celebration
Here's the link to the video of the Jason's Memorial Celebration at Hollinshead Barn.
http://onlinememories.tv/memorial-services/celebration-of-jason-freiboth-2/
Just copy & paste into your browser.
http://onlinememories.tv/memorial-services/celebration-of-jason-freiboth-2/
Just copy & paste into your browser.
Friday, February 11, 2011
A Note from Candy
I know everyone is curious to know how we are doing. How do I begin to explain what it feels like to lose someone I loved very much? J and I would have been married 14 yrs this August and on April fools day this year it would have been 15 yrs since we first moved to Bend.
We miss him very much...Max cries and speaks to J daily as do I. We are surround by memories and things of j's daily that can bring tears easily. I miss his humor, his smile, his patience, his calmness.... him. He was a kind, loving, patient and respectful man who never demanded attention but yet people were always drawn to him. Life ended as I knew it when J died.......we never pictured something like this happening to us as no one does in life but it did and it hurts soooo much!!
I miss the things that couples take for granted as we did, the small notes to say hi we are there daily by phone, the sound of his voice,the small gestures of kindness we did daily to show appreciation for one another, hearing him say "I love you", the sound of them somewhere in the house,seeing him wear his favorite clothes that weren't my favorite that bring some small sense of comfort now, the list goes on ......that I have none of now.......
Simon, bless him, doesn't appear to have taken it as hard as Max and I but he is harder to read. Granted, he didn't have as many years with J as we did and the last couple he does remember J was in and out of treatments, surgeries ect. Last night he shared he likes to dream of flying up to heaven to see daddy so it was a nice way to imagine visiting him for all of us.
Who can ever prepare for letting go of someone you love so deeply? We are adjusting reluctantly now to living a life without him and it scares me alot at times. Emotionally I am on a rollercoaster but I put on my mommy face and try getting back to leading a life with routine for the boys.
This is all I can express right now. goodnight everyone....
Much love
Candy Freiboth
We miss him very much...Max cries and speaks to J daily as do I. We are surround by memories and things of j's daily that can bring tears easily. I miss his humor, his smile, his patience, his calmness.... him. He was a kind, loving, patient and respectful man who never demanded attention but yet people were always drawn to him. Life ended as I knew it when J died.......we never pictured something like this happening to us as no one does in life but it did and it hurts soooo much!!
I miss the things that couples take for granted as we did, the small notes to say hi we are there daily by phone, the sound of his voice,the small gestures of kindness we did daily to show appreciation for one another, hearing him say "I love you", the sound of them somewhere in the house,seeing him wear his favorite clothes that weren't my favorite that bring some small sense of comfort now, the list goes on ......that I have none of now.......
Simon, bless him, doesn't appear to have taken it as hard as Max and I but he is harder to read. Granted, he didn't have as many years with J as we did and the last couple he does remember J was in and out of treatments, surgeries ect. Last night he shared he likes to dream of flying up to heaven to see daddy so it was a nice way to imagine visiting him for all of us.
Who can ever prepare for letting go of someone you love so deeply? We are adjusting reluctantly now to living a life without him and it scares me alot at times. Emotionally I am on a rollercoaster but I put on my mommy face and try getting back to leading a life with routine for the boys.
This is all I can express right now. goodnight everyone....
Much love
Candy Freiboth
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Memorial Service in Sheridan, Wyoming
Jason's parents have organized a memorial service to be held in Sheridan, Wyoming at Trinity Lutheran Church on January 29th at 11 am.
Could you post the information? I know a lot of our former classmates check the blog and it would be a good way to get the word out.
Thanks for your continued support for j's family.
Jolie Fay
Could you post the information? I know a lot of our former classmates check the blog and it would be a good way to get the word out.
Thanks for your continued support for j's family.
Jolie Fay
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Mtn. View Basketball Coach Craig Reid's Letter
Dear Cougars,
On December 5th, 2008 the Mountain View Boys Basketball program had the honor of hosting Jason Freiboth Night. Most of the players in our program at the time, knew Jason as an employee for Bend Metro Parks & Rec. who did everything from helping to set up camps (including COBO Hoop Camps), to officiating everything imaginable. On that night we were able to present Jason, his wife Candy, and their two sons with a donation to help with Jason's battle against skin cancer. I was very proud of our kids' efforts to help out such a wonderful guy and his family.
Unfortunately, I found out late last night that Jason, who has courageously battled this terrible disease since 2002, has passed away. Jason was a tremendous father, husband, employee, and co-worker. He was not only a friend of Mountain View basketball (yes, even though he officiated our Varsity games!!!), but more importantly a friend of kids here in Bend!!!! I can vividly remember him always having a smile on his face and taking the time to talk to my son James when he was just a little kid, and making James feel like the most important kid in the world. Our family will remember your kindness forever.
Jason's family has endured a lot of hardship in battling cancer. I am hoping that we will again be able to step up and help them out. After today's tournament, I will have a couple of days to think of ways to help. All suggestions are welcome.
Please feel free to "Google" Jason Freiboth and find out more about this great guy. The Bulletin did a great article on him that is well worth the read.
As 2010 comes to an end, may we all take the time to count our blessings and maybe pledge to do more to help those in need.
Sincerely,
Coach Craig Reid
Mountain View Boys Basketball
On December 5th, 2008 the Mountain View Boys Basketball program had the honor of hosting Jason Freiboth Night. Most of the players in our program at the time, knew Jason as an employee for Bend Metro Parks & Rec. who did everything from helping to set up camps (including COBO Hoop Camps), to officiating everything imaginable. On that night we were able to present Jason, his wife Candy, and their two sons with a donation to help with Jason's battle against skin cancer. I was very proud of our kids' efforts to help out such a wonderful guy and his family.
Unfortunately, I found out late last night that Jason, who has courageously battled this terrible disease since 2002, has passed away. Jason was a tremendous father, husband, employee, and co-worker. He was not only a friend of Mountain View basketball (yes, even though he officiated our Varsity games!!!), but more importantly a friend of kids here in Bend!!!! I can vividly remember him always having a smile on his face and taking the time to talk to my son James when he was just a little kid, and making James feel like the most important kid in the world. Our family will remember your kindness forever.
Jason's family has endured a lot of hardship in battling cancer. I am hoping that we will again be able to step up and help them out. After today's tournament, I will have a couple of days to think of ways to help. All suggestions are welcome.
Please feel free to "Google" Jason Freiboth and find out more about this great guy. The Bulletin did a great article on him that is well worth the read.
As 2010 comes to an end, may we all take the time to count our blessings and maybe pledge to do more to help those in need.
Sincerely,
Coach Craig Reid
Mountain View Boys Basketball
Be like Eggs - from Rich Ekman
I rarely called Jason by his name. As did many of you, I always referred to Jason as Eggs. When Greg and I first interviewed Jason for his Park and Recreation job, we mispronounced his last name, as “Free Bath”. He quickly said, “no worries, it happens all the time. Just call me Eggs.” To correct people who mispronounced his name, he would say, it is pronounced FRYBOTHE. Think of it like you are ordering breakfast from a chef, “I’ll have two eggs, fry both eggs please.” He said his friends shortened that down to Eggs.
Eggs was born and raised in Sheridan, Wyoming. He was proud of where he grew up and even tattooed the Wyoming Bronco on his shoulder to let everyone know. Eggs went to college at the U of A and NAU and proudly displayed his Arizona license plate on his office desk. However, despite his upbringing, to me Eggs was always a true Bendit. He truly loved living in Central Oregon and in the short 10 years he lived here, he took advantage of all the recreational opportunities that this area and climate offer 12 months out of the year.
Eggs loved heading up to Mt B with his snow board and spending the day shredding the deep powder on the trails off of Northwest and Outback lifts. Often times, he would sneak in a good three hours of boarding before starting work after the lunch hour.
Eggs was a great golfer. I remember being very fond of his smooth, effortless golf swing. Often times I would step up to the tee box and hit what I thought was a nice long drive with my driver. You can imagine my frustration when Eggs would step up to the tee, and despite the fact that he was a good 5 inches shorter and 50 pounds less than me, he would hit his trusty 4 iron 50 yards further and straighter than my drive.
Eggs would look forward to playing hooky from work to go fishing with his boss and fishing buddy Billboard. They would sneak away on a bright clear blue bird morning and head off to some remote Central Oregon lake and fish from sun up to sun down. Eggs would come to work the next day grinning from ear to ear sharing fish total stories.
Eggs was a great tennis player. He played tennis in high school and college. I played doubles in my first and only tennis tournament with Eggs, the Collier Cup, and we won!! I remember teasing Kevin saying, there is nothing to this sport. I just played in the first tournament I have ever played in, and won it. The fact was, I won the tournament when I picked Eggs as my partner. I spent the entire weekend standing on the court watching Eggs hit the ball back and forth. I basically had a front row seat to watch Eggs play tennis and got a trophy out of the deal.
The sport Eggs truly loved was basketball. He was a very good basketball official and officiated all kinds of games in Central Oregon from youth, to middle school, to high school to adult. Eggs truly loved the job and took it very seriously. All of the players and coaches that had him as an official appreciated his work ethic. Eggs really enjoyed conducting basketball clinics for the kids. And was not only a great official and clinician, he could play the game too. His jump shot was like his golf swing, smooth and effortless. We played on the same adult basketball team. Eggs shot the three point shot as though it was a layin, pouring them in from all corners of the Pilot Butte gymnasium. When Eggs would get on a real roll, I could remember players from the opposing team yelling at each other saying “who is guarding that guy”, or mumbling “does that guy ever miss?
Eggs loved to go mountain biking. He would cover himself head to toe in dust spending hours riding up and down every inch of Phil’s Trial.
Eggs not only enjoyed participating in all kinds of sporting events in Bend, he enjoyed watching them too. Some of his favorite activities in the spring and summer were watching the Pole, Peddle, Paddle race and watching the Cascade Cycling Classic downtown evening race. He fed off of the crowds and excitement and marveled at the expertise and effort of the athletes.
Eggs was a big supporter of area high school basketball. He loved going to games at Mt View, Summit and Bend High School. He enjoyed being close to the action and he would find a seat right behind the team bench where he could evaluate his fellow officials, where he could hear the coaches strategize during timeouts and where he could see the faces of the kids and admire their passion and effort that they put forth.
One of Eggs’ favorite things to do in the winter would be to take Max over the mountain to Eugene to watch the Ducks play basketball. He was very fond of the old Mac Court where the Ducks played. Even though there were usually better tickets available, he would always pick some seats up in the rickety wood bleachers in the third balcony where he could take in the whole crazy atmosphere. Up there with the bird’s eye view, he could see the officials work the game, hear the band play, see the players run base line to base line, and hear and feel the roar of the crowd after a Duck basket. There was also room up there in the third balcony where Eggs enjoyed watching Max jump and down and imitate the cheers and chants of the student section in the Pit Crew below.
So as you can see Jason truly lived every day of his life. And although cancer killed his body, it will never kill his spirit. I have so many happy memories of Eggs. Those thoughts will live with me forever. I will miss my friend. His loss can seem devastating and unimaginable and unbearable. There is no explanation for it and no understanding. It is so easy to mourn his death and raise your arms up in the air and yell why! Why was this 41 year old loving husband, father of two , and overall sweet guy taken from us? But let’s rejoice in the fact that his pain and suffering are over and he is now in a better place.
I shared the stories above because I want everyone to know that Jason loved life. He didn’t sit back and watch it fly by. He lived it. Even when cancer was attacking his body, he didn’t sit back and let it define him, he fought like a brave and courageous warrior to beat it. So the challenge to us all is not to mourn Jason’s death but to learn from his life. Let’s honor Eggs by following in his footsteps, by living life to the fullest. Let’s be like Jason, go snow boarding, go play golf, go fishing, go mountain biking, go play tennis, go play basketball, support our community, love your family. Appreciate your time here on earth. Your life is happening right now and this is the only moment you can control. This is the only minute that really matters. Don’t let it pass you by. BE ACTIVE, BE LOVING.
BE LIKE EGGS!
Eggs was born and raised in Sheridan, Wyoming. He was proud of where he grew up and even tattooed the Wyoming Bronco on his shoulder to let everyone know. Eggs went to college at the U of A and NAU and proudly displayed his Arizona license plate on his office desk. However, despite his upbringing, to me Eggs was always a true Bendit. He truly loved living in Central Oregon and in the short 10 years he lived here, he took advantage of all the recreational opportunities that this area and climate offer 12 months out of the year.
Eggs loved heading up to Mt B with his snow board and spending the day shredding the deep powder on the trails off of Northwest and Outback lifts. Often times, he would sneak in a good three hours of boarding before starting work after the lunch hour.
Eggs was a great golfer. I remember being very fond of his smooth, effortless golf swing. Often times I would step up to the tee box and hit what I thought was a nice long drive with my driver. You can imagine my frustration when Eggs would step up to the tee, and despite the fact that he was a good 5 inches shorter and 50 pounds less than me, he would hit his trusty 4 iron 50 yards further and straighter than my drive.
Eggs would look forward to playing hooky from work to go fishing with his boss and fishing buddy Billboard. They would sneak away on a bright clear blue bird morning and head off to some remote Central Oregon lake and fish from sun up to sun down. Eggs would come to work the next day grinning from ear to ear sharing fish total stories.
Eggs was a great tennis player. He played tennis in high school and college. I played doubles in my first and only tennis tournament with Eggs, the Collier Cup, and we won!! I remember teasing Kevin saying, there is nothing to this sport. I just played in the first tournament I have ever played in, and won it. The fact was, I won the tournament when I picked Eggs as my partner. I spent the entire weekend standing on the court watching Eggs hit the ball back and forth. I basically had a front row seat to watch Eggs play tennis and got a trophy out of the deal.
The sport Eggs truly loved was basketball. He was a very good basketball official and officiated all kinds of games in Central Oregon from youth, to middle school, to high school to adult. Eggs truly loved the job and took it very seriously. All of the players and coaches that had him as an official appreciated his work ethic. Eggs really enjoyed conducting basketball clinics for the kids. And was not only a great official and clinician, he could play the game too. His jump shot was like his golf swing, smooth and effortless. We played on the same adult basketball team. Eggs shot the three point shot as though it was a layin, pouring them in from all corners of the Pilot Butte gymnasium. When Eggs would get on a real roll, I could remember players from the opposing team yelling at each other saying “who is guarding that guy”, or mumbling “does that guy ever miss?
Eggs loved to go mountain biking. He would cover himself head to toe in dust spending hours riding up and down every inch of Phil’s Trial.
Eggs not only enjoyed participating in all kinds of sporting events in Bend, he enjoyed watching them too. Some of his favorite activities in the spring and summer were watching the Pole, Peddle, Paddle race and watching the Cascade Cycling Classic downtown evening race. He fed off of the crowds and excitement and marveled at the expertise and effort of the athletes.
Eggs was a big supporter of area high school basketball. He loved going to games at Mt View, Summit and Bend High School. He enjoyed being close to the action and he would find a seat right behind the team bench where he could evaluate his fellow officials, where he could hear the coaches strategize during timeouts and where he could see the faces of the kids and admire their passion and effort that they put forth.
One of Eggs’ favorite things to do in the winter would be to take Max over the mountain to Eugene to watch the Ducks play basketball. He was very fond of the old Mac Court where the Ducks played. Even though there were usually better tickets available, he would always pick some seats up in the rickety wood bleachers in the third balcony where he could take in the whole crazy atmosphere. Up there with the bird’s eye view, he could see the officials work the game, hear the band play, see the players run base line to base line, and hear and feel the roar of the crowd after a Duck basket. There was also room up there in the third balcony where Eggs enjoyed watching Max jump and down and imitate the cheers and chants of the student section in the Pit Crew below.
So as you can see Jason truly lived every day of his life. And although cancer killed his body, it will never kill his spirit. I have so many happy memories of Eggs. Those thoughts will live with me forever. I will miss my friend. His loss can seem devastating and unimaginable and unbearable. There is no explanation for it and no understanding. It is so easy to mourn his death and raise your arms up in the air and yell why! Why was this 41 year old loving husband, father of two , and overall sweet guy taken from us? But let’s rejoice in the fact that his pain and suffering are over and he is now in a better place.
I shared the stories above because I want everyone to know that Jason loved life. He didn’t sit back and watch it fly by. He lived it. Even when cancer was attacking his body, he didn’t sit back and let it define him, he fought like a brave and courageous warrior to beat it. So the challenge to us all is not to mourn Jason’s death but to learn from his life. Let’s honor Eggs by following in his footsteps, by living life to the fullest. Let’s be like Jason, go snow boarding, go play golf, go fishing, go mountain biking, go play tennis, go play basketball, support our community, love your family. Appreciate your time here on earth. Your life is happening right now and this is the only moment you can control. This is the only minute that really matters. Don’t let it pass you by. BE ACTIVE, BE LOVING.
BE LIKE EGGS!
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
New Donation Link
Here is a link for donations using Pay Pal from Jolie Fay.
http://jasonfreiboth.chipin.com/jason-freiboth
http://jasonfreiboth.chipin.com/jason-freiboth
Jason has passed
Jason Frieboth passed away Tuesday morning, Dec. 28 around 5:30am, from his battle with cancer. We will keep you advised as to any services the family is planning.
Thanks for all your support of Jason and his family.
Thanks for all your support of Jason and his family.
Monday, December 27, 2010
From Julie Cavanuagh:
I will say Season's Greetings because Merry Christmas doesn't seem to work for me right now. Jason seems to be fading very quickly at this point. He is delusional at times and is eating very little. It seems we are at the beginning of the end. Candy, the kids, and his parents are here with him. Candy's mom is in town.
Because of these things, please no unannounced visits. I would say e-mails, rather than texts, so that Candy is not bothered by her phone right now.
Hold your family, friends close. Embrace each day.
With Love,
Julie
I will say Season's Greetings because Merry Christmas doesn't seem to work for me right now. Jason seems to be fading very quickly at this point. He is delusional at times and is eating very little. It seems we are at the beginning of the end. Candy, the kids, and his parents are here with him. Candy's mom is in town.
Because of these things, please no unannounced visits. I would say e-mails, rather than texts, so that Candy is not bothered by her phone right now.
Hold your family, friends close. Embrace each day.
With Love,
Julie
Monday, December 6, 2010
New email address
Hello, friends -
We are discontinuing our Clearwire.net service, so our email address will change immediately. Our new email address is:
simaxfreiboth@gmail.com
Please change our contact info in your email systems.
Thanks,
Candy and Jason
We are discontinuing our Clearwire.net service, so our email address will change immediately. Our new email address is:
simaxfreiboth@gmail.com
Please change our contact info in your email systems.
Thanks,
Candy and Jason
Friday, December 3, 2010
Update from Julie
Hello - Thought I would send out another update, although I don't have many details - medically. While the family was in San Diego for the Thanksgiving holiday, Jason lost use of his legs, and has no feeling below his waist. He has been in a wheelchair since before Thanksgiving. At this time Candy has stopped working and is taking care of Jason full-time. She does have assistance from Hospice and has engaged a home health agency to come in a few times a day and help her move Jason from bed to chair, etc. (they also help with house cleaning, meal prep., companionship...pretty much whatever Candy/Jason ask for). This has been great. They are still working out a schedule as to how much help they need, when they need it, etc., and getting used to having someone in the house is going to take some time. Jason's spirits are (seem) good. He is the same old guy that we all know and love. Candy is hanging in there. She is one tough cookie and is taking great care of her entire family. Candy's mom arrived yesterday and will be staying for.....as she puts it, "the winter". :) She will be a big help with the kids and support of Candy/Jason.
I expressed to Candy that many people would like to visit them. She said, "Yes, please." The best way to do that is to schedule through Candy. Texting is your best bet. 541-390-9811. Be patient. Some days are easier than others, but they want folks to visit. Don't be afraid that you are bugging them - you are supposed to bug them - they are your friends :)
One area that we can all help with starting now, would be providing dinners. I will keep a calendar of names/dates. Just send me a few dates you are interested in, and I will sign you up for one or a few, and get back to you. In order to keep their evening dedicated to family, you can either have me pick up the meal or bring it to my house. I will take dinners over. They just don't want to have to have social hour every evening when someone delivers a meal. This will make Candy's evenings MUCH less stressful, and she can focus on her family. So get your apron on and start cooking. Doesn't have to be fancy. Doesn't even have to be good........well, kinda good.
Of course they are overwhelmed by the love and support from you all. It seems every day, they are told of someone wanting to do something for them, or just doing something out of the blue. What great friends you all are!
Get out your calendar and send me the dates. Thanks again!!
Love,Julie Cavanaugh
I expressed to Candy that many people would like to visit them. She said, "Yes, please." The best way to do that is to schedule through Candy. Texting is your best bet. 541-390-9811. Be patient. Some days are easier than others, but they want folks to visit. Don't be afraid that you are bugging them - you are supposed to bug them - they are your friends :)
One area that we can all help with starting now, would be providing dinners. I will keep a calendar of names/dates. Just send me a few dates you are interested in, and I will sign you up for one or a few, and get back to you. In order to keep their evening dedicated to family, you can either have me pick up the meal or bring it to my house. I will take dinners over. They just don't want to have to have social hour every evening when someone delivers a meal. This will make Candy's evenings MUCH less stressful, and she can focus on her family. So get your apron on and start cooking. Doesn't have to be fancy. Doesn't even have to be good........well, kinda good.
Of course they are overwhelmed by the love and support from you all. It seems every day, they are told of someone wanting to do something for them, or just doing something out of the blue. What great friends you all are!
Get out your calendar and send me the dates. Thanks again!!
Love,Julie Cavanaugh
Monday, November 15, 2010
Update from Lisa
I just got off the phone after talking with Candy, Jason, and Dr. Martin (the oncologist who worked with Jason the last time he was hospitalized). Dr. Martin had reviewed Jason's MRI and CT scans and explained what is going on.
The scans show that Jason's cancer is progressing, especially the tumors around his spinal cord. The tumor that Dr. Tien was able to partially remove a few weeks ago has grown back very rapidly and is again pressing on the spinal cord and causing Jason's pain and difficulty walking. Dr. Martin consulted with both Dr. Tien and Dr. Chang, who have followed Jason's cancer for the past several years, and they are all in agreement that there are no good options for further treatment at this point. Jason cannot take any more radiation, and the fact that the last tumor has grown back so quickly means that is no real role for surgery, either. In terms of further systemic treatment for Jason's melanoma, there aren't any chemotherapies that would be effective. This means that - in the opinion of Jason's doctors - it is really time to focus on managing symptoms (including pain) and quality of life issues so that Jason can enjoy the precious time he has left. He has gotten some steroids that will help reduce the swelling near his spinal cord and is getting IV morphine. Dr. Martin is sure that he will be able to go home with oral morphine, and he will be able to increase the dose beyond what he has been taking in order to control the pain. There are other pain medications that can be considered later, including Fentanyl patches. Jason is eligible for hospice care, so he will get his own assigned in-home nurse who can help manage pain and other symptoms. Given the location of the worst tumors, Dr. Martin thinks that the most likely symptoms to develop could be further lower-body paralysis and perhaps bowel and bladder issues, which are regulated by nerves in the lower spine. He will also feel tired and sleepy more often, both because his body is using its energy to fight the cancer and because of the pain meds he will be on.
I try really hard to keep these messages clear, factual, and accurate based on what the doctors have said. I know that you all know how much emotion there is under this all, and that I'm just trying to separate the feelings from the facts in these little written summaries. Jason has fought this thing so valiantly for so long, and it is just unbearable to hear that we are at the point we're at right now.
Love to all,
Lisa Aumack
The scans show that Jason's cancer is progressing, especially the tumors around his spinal cord. The tumor that Dr. Tien was able to partially remove a few weeks ago has grown back very rapidly and is again pressing on the spinal cord and causing Jason's pain and difficulty walking. Dr. Martin consulted with both Dr. Tien and Dr. Chang, who have followed Jason's cancer for the past several years, and they are all in agreement that there are no good options for further treatment at this point. Jason cannot take any more radiation, and the fact that the last tumor has grown back so quickly means that is no real role for surgery, either. In terms of further systemic treatment for Jason's melanoma, there aren't any chemotherapies that would be effective. This means that - in the opinion of Jason's doctors - it is really time to focus on managing symptoms (including pain) and quality of life issues so that Jason can enjoy the precious time he has left. He has gotten some steroids that will help reduce the swelling near his spinal cord and is getting IV morphine. Dr. Martin is sure that he will be able to go home with oral morphine, and he will be able to increase the dose beyond what he has been taking in order to control the pain. There are other pain medications that can be considered later, including Fentanyl patches. Jason is eligible for hospice care, so he will get his own assigned in-home nurse who can help manage pain and other symptoms. Given the location of the worst tumors, Dr. Martin thinks that the most likely symptoms to develop could be further lower-body paralysis and perhaps bowel and bladder issues, which are regulated by nerves in the lower spine. He will also feel tired and sleepy more often, both because his body is using its energy to fight the cancer and because of the pain meds he will be on.
I try really hard to keep these messages clear, factual, and accurate based on what the doctors have said. I know that you all know how much emotion there is under this all, and that I'm just trying to separate the feelings from the facts in these little written summaries. Jason has fought this thing so valiantly for so long, and it is just unbearable to hear that we are at the point we're at right now.
Love to all,
Lisa Aumack
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Donation Bank Update
I have been contacted by several people regarding donations. Apparently the US Bank account is closed. A new account has been opened at SELCO Credit Union. Their phone number is 541-312-1800.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Update from Candy
Jason was allowed to sit up today and even walked a short distance to stand up and brush his teeth at the sink. He is still very week and needed a walker and assistance to get out of bed. Had visits with occupational and physical therapists and a wonderful palliative doctor who's job is to manage his symptoms.Jason is wanting to try anything that Dr. Curti suggests and asked the palliative doctor to have discussions with Dr. curti and Dr. Tien to see what they think his chances are with any other treatments. He is still hopeful and we will continue to support him in any decision he makes from here on out.
He had a wonderful visit with the boys, my brother, sister-in-law and niece and enjoyed the home cooked dinner they brought. If anyone would like to visit him in the hospital jason suggested between 1-5pm.
Love to you all
Candy
He had a wonderful visit with the boys, my brother, sister-in-law and niece and enjoyed the home cooked dinner they brought. If anyone would like to visit him in the hospital jason suggested between 1-5pm.
Love to you all
Candy
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
August 2010 Update
Candy and Jason met with Dr. Tien, Jason's neurosurgeon, yesterday. The meeting was a consultation to review Dr. Tien's assessment of Jason's latest brain scan, which shows a "hot spot" that has enlarged since the last scan. Dr. Tien discussed the options and his initial recommendations. He did not want to schedule brain surgery until he consulted with Jason's Portland oncologist, Dr. Curti. Unfortunately Dr. Curti is gone for 10 days so Dr. Tien spoke to another oncologist who has been tracking Jason's case. They spoke and reviewed the status of the cancer in all parts of Jason's body, and determined that the brain tumor is the one that will most affect Jason's longevity or quality of life. Dr. Tien would like to do surgery next Wednesday.
There are risks, including blindness and other brain damage, that can occur with further surgery. In addition, the surgery itself would diminish Jason's quality of life for a period of several months following the surgery. We will know more on Monday what to expect with the surgery.
From Candy:
Well, we didn't expect to be celebrating our 13th Anniversary on Saturday with this unexpected news nor brain surgery on Jason 40th Birthday but that is part of the crappy roller coaster we are on.
Though I would do anything to make this all go away and give my husband the life he once had, I have to be thankful we have this option to give our family more time with one another.
We apologize if we don't always return texts and emails to everyone but I know everyone has a clear understanding of why. Much love to all of you...
PS Thank you mom for helping me to interpret the info from yesterday. I love you very much!
There are risks, including blindness and other brain damage, that can occur with further surgery. In addition, the surgery itself would diminish Jason's quality of life for a period of several months following the surgery. We will know more on Monday what to expect with the surgery.
From Candy:
Well, we didn't expect to be celebrating our 13th Anniversary on Saturday with this unexpected news nor brain surgery on Jason 40th Birthday but that is part of the crappy roller coaster we are on.
Though I would do anything to make this all go away and give my husband the life he once had, I have to be thankful we have this option to give our family more time with one another.
We apologize if we don't always return texts and emails to everyone but I know everyone has a clear understanding of why. Much love to all of you...
PS Thank you mom for helping me to interpret the info from yesterday. I love you very much!
Thursday, June 10, 2010
June 2010 Upddate
I don't know how many people have still been checking in, but if you have, sorry for such a gap in updating this site.
There has been quite a bit going on since the last update. December of last year included a clinical trial drug called OX40. The treatment involved a series of IV drips with the experimental drug over a period of about 2 months. At the end of the treatment, an MRI and CT scan were done to see if there had been any changes in the melanoma in my body. Those results showed no new growths and some shrinkage in existing growths. That was pretty good news!
Up until February I really didn't have much going on other than routine scans. About mid February I started to have some odd feelings in my legs and back. A CT scan showed that there were some growths on my lower spine that was affecting my ability to walk steadily. It also showed a growth on my left kidney and another on my right ureter. 5 Doses of radiation were able to take care of the spots on my spine and walking is fine for now. The blockage on the ureter was causing some pretty good back pain that was relieved with some pretty heavy pain medication. The urologists also attempted to place a stint in my kidney to bypass the blocked ureter twice with no success. As a result, a nafrostamy tube was placed in my kidney along with a collection bag to collect urine from that kidney. After having the tube and bag for almost 2 months, they were finally able to place a stint internally and remove the tube and bag. That was quite a relief to get the tube out since I was only able to take sponge baths with the tube in place! During that same time frame, I was taking a chemotherapy pill called Temador. It really had no side effects and after taking it for 3 weeks showed now improvement in any of the affected areas so that drug was stopped.
Most recently, I have started another clinical trial drug called ipilimamamab (ippi for short). It is another immune therapy that is given by IV. My first infusion was this last Friday, 4th of June. I will be receiving treatment every three weeks for three more times. After those treatments there will be scans done to determine what effect the drugs have had. We are obviously hoping for some good results from this treatment as it has some pretty good results in prior trials. We will try to keep up a little better with upcoming treatments to keep you all posted. Sorry again it has been so long & hopefully we will keep you all updated a bit better in the future!
Jason
There has been quite a bit going on since the last update. December of last year included a clinical trial drug called OX40. The treatment involved a series of IV drips with the experimental drug over a period of about 2 months. At the end of the treatment, an MRI and CT scan were done to see if there had been any changes in the melanoma in my body. Those results showed no new growths and some shrinkage in existing growths. That was pretty good news!
Up until February I really didn't have much going on other than routine scans. About mid February I started to have some odd feelings in my legs and back. A CT scan showed that there were some growths on my lower spine that was affecting my ability to walk steadily. It also showed a growth on my left kidney and another on my right ureter. 5 Doses of radiation were able to take care of the spots on my spine and walking is fine for now. The blockage on the ureter was causing some pretty good back pain that was relieved with some pretty heavy pain medication. The urologists also attempted to place a stint in my kidney to bypass the blocked ureter twice with no success. As a result, a nafrostamy tube was placed in my kidney along with a collection bag to collect urine from that kidney. After having the tube and bag for almost 2 months, they were finally able to place a stint internally and remove the tube and bag. That was quite a relief to get the tube out since I was only able to take sponge baths with the tube in place! During that same time frame, I was taking a chemotherapy pill called Temador. It really had no side effects and after taking it for 3 weeks showed now improvement in any of the affected areas so that drug was stopped.
Most recently, I have started another clinical trial drug called ipilimamamab (ippi for short). It is another immune therapy that is given by IV. My first infusion was this last Friday, 4th of June. I will be receiving treatment every three weeks for three more times. After those treatments there will be scans done to determine what effect the drugs have had. We are obviously hoping for some good results from this treatment as it has some pretty good results in prior trials. We will try to keep up a little better with upcoming treatments to keep you all posted. Sorry again it has been so long & hopefully we will keep you all updated a bit better in the future!
Jason
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Monday, September 14, 2009
September 2009 Update
For anyone that is still checking in, sorry for such a long delay in updating the blog.
Things have been going great for the last month and a half. The most recent set of scans from head to toe showed no new growths anywhere and all spots that were seen in prior scans were either shrinking or had already healed! It is a great feeling to know that all of the intense treatments that I went through the winter are working! I also truly feel that all the prayers and love sent my way had a big role in getting me through the treatments and making them successful. The next set of scans are scheduled for the end of this month (Sept). I have been feeling great and am expecting to get the same good news!
I have also started back to work and it is awesome! It does a lot for my mental state being able to get back to some sense of normality and be around the great group of people at the Park & Recreation District here in Bend! It has been fun to get back out in the community and have everyone tell me how happy they are for me that the treatments are working and I am getting better! Thanks again to everyone for all of the love, prayers, & support and I will let you know how the next set of scans go.
Jason
Things have been going great for the last month and a half. The most recent set of scans from head to toe showed no new growths anywhere and all spots that were seen in prior scans were either shrinking or had already healed! It is a great feeling to know that all of the intense treatments that I went through the winter are working! I also truly feel that all the prayers and love sent my way had a big role in getting me through the treatments and making them successful. The next set of scans are scheduled for the end of this month (Sept). I have been feeling great and am expecting to get the same good news!
I have also started back to work and it is awesome! It does a lot for my mental state being able to get back to some sense of normality and be around the great group of people at the Park & Recreation District here in Bend! It has been fun to get back out in the community and have everyone tell me how happy they are for me that the treatments are working and I am getting better! Thanks again to everyone for all of the love, prayers, & support and I will let you know how the next set of scans go.
Jason
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