tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45522110058307064122024-03-15T18:10:39.944-07:00THROUGH IRISH EYESThis blog started as a way to chronicle an incredible trip to Ireland during spring break, 2008. It now continues about.........Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.comBlogger689125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-73125065886969195052023-10-16T20:06:00.002-07:002023-10-16T20:06:51.998-07:00Letter to President Biden<p> I just sent this to President Biden. I am not sure that he will ever read it, but it meant a lot to me to be able to send it. Here's hoping.</p><p><br /></p><p>
</p><p class="MsoNormal"> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Chalkboard SE";"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Chalkboard SE";"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Chalkboard SE";">Dear
President Biden,</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Chalkboard SE";"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Chalkboard SE";">I
am writing this letter to you and I realize that you may never see it as you
have so much on your plate all of the time, but especially right now.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Chalkboard SE";"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Chalkboard SE";">I
live in Arizona and come from an Irish/Catholic family who lived on the Mexican
border from about 1903.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our family have
been dedicated Democrats forever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
currently serve on the Governing Board of the Gilbert Unified School
District.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Chalkboard SE";"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Chalkboard SE";">The
reason I am writing this letter is to tell you about something that happened
when you were in Arizona recently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My
dear cousin, Margaret Scott Gabaldon, died and we had her funeral on the day
you came to dedicate John McCain’s Library at Arizona State University.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Chalkboard SE";"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Chalkboard SE";">Margaret
was married to Tony Gabaldon who was a Democrat and served many years in the
Arizona State Senate until his death in 1998. Margaret was a rabid Democrat who
was very involved in Democratic politics in the state.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She always made sure that people knew that
first she was a Catholic, second she was a Democrat, and third that she was an
Arizona State University fan.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Chalkboard SE";"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Chalkboard SE";">At
the end of her funeral mass at St. Mary’s Basilica in Phoenix, our family and
everyone in attendance were standing in the front of the church.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Everyone was cheering and waving and it
turned out it was you and your motorcade<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>going by right at that moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This could not have been scripted any better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may not remember, but you were also
waving back.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Margaret would have been so
happy that her funeral ended with you passing by.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can speak for myself and many members of
our family that this was such an incredible way to send her off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Chalkboard SE";"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Chalkboard SE";">I
truly hope that someone who reads this, lets you know how much this meant to
all of us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We support you and all that
you stand for and thank you for your service to our country and all of your
work to preserve our democracy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You are
truly a good man, President Biden, and I am proud of all that you do.</span></p>
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{page:WordSection1;}</style></p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-17129868133246760492023-10-01T10:00:00.002-07:002023-10-01T10:13:50.356-07:00Yaya Remembered<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5RY4kjDfBvgaBNl4rgoKMQIcycMxsCoY6ZYoIlHAE9QkAT9Ha7xq19DGFL3Prsqc4pFXEXCe7bebIiUfBgS7hmE1aD04DYhXCLVMR5Y36-y0jBF-kDu1-9CCHrYl7_N5Okm8c5pyYne40NwPtbFi98tl7bzAEVs303MxZ_l2g_hmVA78ctswK6DJw-Do5/s365/1a668b94-417b-47f8-9f29-ec18e8df467d.jpg.webp" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="365" data-original-width="360" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5RY4kjDfBvgaBNl4rgoKMQIcycMxsCoY6ZYoIlHAE9QkAT9Ha7xq19DGFL3Prsqc4pFXEXCe7bebIiUfBgS7hmE1aD04DYhXCLVMR5Y36-y0jBF-kDu1-9CCHrYl7_N5Okm8c5pyYne40NwPtbFi98tl7bzAEVs303MxZ_l2g_hmVA78ctswK6DJw-Do5/s320/1a668b94-417b-47f8-9f29-ec18e8df467d.jpg.webp" width="316" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: helvetica;"><b>On Thursday we had the funeral mass for Yaya. It was absolutely beautiful. It was everything she would have loved.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: helvetica;"><b>Many
of our cousins were able to attend which was so nice. It was great to
visit with them even under these sad circumstances. <br /></b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: helvetica;"><b>The
best thing happened at the end of the mass. After her casket was taken
out of St. Mary's Basilica, there were a lot of people standing on the
balcony overlooking the street and waving. There was a motorcade going
by and it was President Biden, who was speaking in Tempe. He was waving to everyone and they were waving back. It couldn't
have been more fitting for this to happen at the end of Yaya's funeral.
She was a Democrat through and through and made sure that everyone knew
it. It was so cool!<br /></b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: helvetica;"><b>I was able to say a few words in honor of my wonderful cousin, Yaya. Here is what I said:</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;">
</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><b><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: 14pt;">As
I sat down to try to write about Yaya, I knew that I couldn’t begin to put down
in words what she meant to so many of us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>She was so loved <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>for many different
reasons.</span></b></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><b><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: 14pt;">She
had integrity, empathy, kindness and she was FUN to be with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Her sense of humor was second to none.</span></b></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><b><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: 14pt;">I
know that Yaya spent time in Douglas when she was young but I don’t have many
memories of that because she was 12 years older than me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know that my mom and Teresa dearly loved
her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They always described her as
“feisty” which she certainly was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
remember hearing stories about her biting and how they couldn’t take her
places, especially the dentist, because of this bad habit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My earliest memory was running up the steps
in Douglas as fast as I could so she wouldn’t pinch my butt!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Unfortunately, I wasn’t always fast enough.</span></b></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><b><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: 14pt;">The
best childhood memories were of going to California and meeting all of the
Sacramento cousins, Phoenix cousins and various friends and visiting both Eddie
and Yaya.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was becoming a nun and was
in Montecito and Eddie was at the Mission in Santa Barbara.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was hard for me to imagine that angelic
nun biting and pinching, but it was TRUE!</span></b></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><b><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: 14pt;">I
would be up here for hours if I talked about all of the memories from our years
in Phoenix after she and Tony were married.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They were the absolute best of times!</span></b></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><b><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: 14pt;">We
had season tickets for ASU football games thanks to our Aunt Teresa.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yaya was such a die hard ASU fan and our
seats were in a section where they sold tickets to the opposing team.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think ASU would have rethought that if they
had known Yaya.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She cheered over the
opposing fans—ASU, ASU. I can still hear her.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But probably the best memory was her throwing ice or popcorn down on
people who were cheering for the other team.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They would turn around and look and of course no one every suspected
Yaya who was sitting there innocently with her hands across her lap or she
would be looking behind her to try to see who the culprit was and throw them
off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think they thought it was Cecilia and
I.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><b><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: 14pt;">During
summers, I loved going with Tony and Yaya all over northern Arizona campaigning
for Democratic candidates and helping them cook the wonderful Mexican food that
Tony was famous for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tony was a
politician through and through and could tell stories and entertain people for
hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yaya was the perfect politician’s
spouse and was always so supportive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
learned a lot about what a good marriage is watching those two interact.</span></b></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><b><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: 14pt;">On
a professional level, Yaya helped me institute several programs when I was a
principal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was able to send teachers
to observe her classroom at Herrera and she was always available to assist my
teachers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I appreciated her love of
teaching and understood the importance of literacy so much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></b></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><b><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: 14pt;">I
could go on and on to describe what an incredible life she led, how much she
meant to so many people, and what a joy she was to be around.</span></b></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><b><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: 14pt;">Tomorrow
night after she is laid to rest next to her beloved Tony in Flagstaff, the
beautiful statue of Our Lady of the Rockies in Butte, Montana where Dave and I
have a home, will be lit in Memory of Yaya.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Our Lady of the Rockies is a statue that is dedicated to women of all
denominations everywhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, it is
still “Catholic” and that makes Yaya’s dedication even more meaningful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here is what the newspaper will publish about
the lighting.</span></b></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><b><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: 14pt;">In
loving memory of Margaret Gabaldon who left this world a better place on Sept.
24, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was a
beloved sister, aunt, cousin , step mother, grandmother, friend and educator
and she will be dearly missed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Love,
Sheila and Dave Uggetti and Judy and Ken Engel</span></b></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><b><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: 14pt;">Yaya,
you were one of a kind and we are all better people for having you in our
lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the words of Bob Hope, “Thanks
for the memories……..” Memories that will be forever cherished!</span></b></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><i><b><span style="color: #e06666; font-size: 14pt;"> </span></b></i></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><i><b><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: helvetica;"> </span><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: helvetica;"><br /><br /></span></b></i></p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-19702095503198327762023-09-09T17:20:00.001-07:002023-09-09T17:20:50.332-07:00Wonderful Memories<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Judy and I just got back from visiting Yaya. She is in a group home like my mom and Teresa were. It was a very nice place as most of the ones like that are. I believe it is so much better than a nursing home. </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>She looked fairly good. She knew us, but she has a hard time talking (or I should say it is very hard to hear her as her voice is so faint.) She was sitting in a lounge chair. Cecilia, Annie and Mark were there and we visited with them, but she didn't really participate in any of the conversation. </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>I have so many wonderful memories from childhood through adulthood of Yaya. She is like an older sister to me. I remember when we were young and we would go to California to visit she and her brother Eddie. Yaya was becoming a nun near Santa Barbara when Eddie was becoming a priest there. I also remember when I was really young and she would spend time in Douglas during the summer.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>But the best memories have been throughout my adulthood. We had so many great times through the years with she, Tony and the rest of the Phoenix cousins.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>For many years, we had ASU season tickets. Tailgating was always fun with the family. Yaya is a rabid ASU fan and would often throw popcorn at people below us who were rooting for the other team. They would turn around and look and of course, no one guessed it was her because she had the angelic look! </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><b>Through the years we spent most holidays with all of them. My best memories were of all of the New Years Eve celebrations. I would always stay with Yaya and Tony. We had so much fun and I dearly love her.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><b> Yaya is one of the best people I know and I am proud to be her cousin. <br /></b></span></p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-41970780248295246592023-08-27T11:22:00.003-07:002023-08-27T11:22:59.443-07:00National Dog Day<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBKUpa6oYskuJF2kHZszcTvSUHDTjIQWU3kCp2rnEUH7IBm9PFexe9iX650X6OnRNbVNebgjE2hAzOewfabBfvCo5w43BGAoZ2PXyw99DSsS-241YYH4ivSNAqQZvc8n2QOLEvTDnyk7VbRX_Y0pzB0g7qhhOgS9Ya1jD7GvCQ7stFL-LUrn8FzB5qcHPv/s4032/IMG_0724.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBKUpa6oYskuJF2kHZszcTvSUHDTjIQWU3kCp2rnEUH7IBm9PFexe9iX650X6OnRNbVNebgjE2hAzOewfabBfvCo5w43BGAoZ2PXyw99DSsS-241YYH4ivSNAqQZvc8n2QOLEvTDnyk7VbRX_Y0pzB0g7qhhOgS9Ya1jD7GvCQ7stFL-LUrn8FzB5qcHPv/s320/IMG_0724.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>Yesterday was National Dog Day. Last Thursday was a week ago that we lost our wonderful, gentle pug, Seamus. It has been a hard week. I miss him so much. Losing Diego in January and then Seamus last week, has made it a rough year. I have always loved all of our dogs. However, these two were very special to me for different reasons. I wrote about Diego when he died and I did a bit on Seamus last week. </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>I was thinking about what Seamus has meant to me the last two years when I was undergoing cancer treatment. I'm not sure that a dog can have empathy, but I am absolutely positive that Seamus did. During my worst days, he was by my side in bed with me. It was as though he knew that I was really sick. He was always gentle and never "intruded." He was just there with me 24/7. I will always remember that.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>When he got sick and was gone within two hours, it was so difficult. However, he did not suffer and he was in bed with me. As always, he was by my side, even in his last few hours.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>He had a great life. The previous week we took him with us to Maura and Chuck's cabin. He was able to roam around. He even went on our side by side ride to the top of the mountain. As always, he was so good and never caused any problems.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><b>Seamus, thank you for being my loyal companion and for being with me through some of the darkest and roughest days these past two years. You were truly a gift and I was blessed. </b></span><br /></p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-37533455379695328102023-08-18T09:13:00.004-07:002023-08-18T09:13:46.922-07:00Seamus Uggetti--Our Eagle Scout Pug<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDRnlPuNH7ZUk9uzp8g_Zi6DFAOG696Em3gloiZWmkPmP2WVaoCmpmxsg2XPtUZ-e9R0McBunsKsCFjYjIWnguO91pRsp0us8ywDDRxp0Nvz3wEtMYL8iMM7_R5m_9_9KaM8xrOH-lfhBU68FtAo9-GeZkf03WPbyQQc4TDdNWp4Xr7YuEVqJfWInvBzFj/s4032/IMG_1022.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDRnlPuNH7ZUk9uzp8g_Zi6DFAOG696Em3gloiZWmkPmP2WVaoCmpmxsg2XPtUZ-e9R0McBunsKsCFjYjIWnguO91pRsp0us8ywDDRxp0Nvz3wEtMYL8iMM7_R5m_9_9KaM8xrOH-lfhBU68FtAo9-GeZkf03WPbyQQc4TDdNWp4Xr7YuEVqJfWInvBzFj/s320/IMG_1022.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><div class="xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs x126k92a" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit; text-align: start;">Last night was a very sad night in our home. Our wonderful pug Seamus, died. He had been fine all day but got sick after he ate his dinner. Around 8 he was gone when I checked up on him. Almost every pet we have had the choice to put them down. Not that it is ever easy, but this was so unexpected.</div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; orphans: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit; text-align: start;">Seamus was the last of the pugs with a connection to our Aunt Teresa and my time in Douglas. That alone is difficult. </div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; orphans: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit; text-align: start;">Those of you who knew Seamus would all say he was the sweetest dog ever. When Dave came into my life, Seamus took to him. Every night he sat on his lap. </div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; orphans: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit; text-align: start;">I always said that Seamus was an Eagle Scout Pug because he always followed the rules, just like Dave. </div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; orphans: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit; text-align: start;">Our Griff, as wild as he is, knew something was wrong last night and was so subdued. </div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; orphans: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit; text-align: start;">We just got back from taking him to the vet. Pets are so important in our lives and I would not want to change anything ever. Seamus was a gentle soul who loved unconditionally. We will greatly miss him, </div></div><div class="x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; font-family: system-ui, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; orphans: auto; overflow-wrap: break-word; text-align: left; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit; text-align: start;">He loved being in Montana. He could run freely on our property and always did. He enriched our lives immensely. I'm not sure what I am going to do without a pug!!!</div></div><p><br /> </p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-68623512187754026362023-07-28T08:57:00.003-07:002023-07-29T07:45:58.857-07:00John Henry Nitcy - August 26, 1959 - January 14, 2023<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsb6_oZRYkyC6allVwdp-LOESZsTlgR3QvnNvOnznXaQ8NtxUOkd9VGVC2rNWQe9mjv52IWl_mH6hDlFUIe7WQcQ3UKfjUFASEp98Zt1KGPJoLIKf-cGgp_Xh4TyoS1NdNvmeOEVnWANqN6WGzqA6h0KXweWRlbGeoYASrLPdOlcBcROKYBzNRDrMZJaB3/s4032/IMG_0663.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsb6_oZRYkyC6allVwdp-LOESZsTlgR3QvnNvOnznXaQ8NtxUOkd9VGVC2rNWQe9mjv52IWl_mH6hDlFUIe7WQcQ3UKfjUFASEp98Zt1KGPJoLIKf-cGgp_Xh4TyoS1NdNvmeOEVnWANqN6WGzqA6h0KXweWRlbGeoYASrLPdOlcBcROKYBzNRDrMZJaB3/s320/IMG_0663.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxVICDkuRNnB4dFWi5EpfLldI5rshw6t85GKimVn9Qxio6PMOPB8XUJkBXXdeb_vMDNRQefDo3ZS4wzjf0jgFG2GpLULX3-2MkluP_6qGNsySyIi7cSguaHlE4iIyqXrQFVDQ5Jk-cW2Xecxb55lnOjYlrjx4jbihIFRMfwYuB0d_41v0YX9NXBzHw9piI/s4032/IMG_0662.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxVICDkuRNnB4dFWi5EpfLldI5rshw6t85GKimVn9Qxio6PMOPB8XUJkBXXdeb_vMDNRQefDo3ZS4wzjf0jgFG2GpLULX3-2MkluP_6qGNsySyIi7cSguaHlE4iIyqXrQFVDQ5Jk-cW2Xecxb55lnOjYlrjx4jbihIFRMfwYuB0d_41v0YX9NXBzHw9piI/s320/IMG_0662.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYKK0-l266iMqKtbmpLfzZwIlNUXTB5KVQc8siJ73G-m520_tbT1AqIQdTuPRCexxKVYKkG_PQWSvENu9MZzSnqZ9NBcI8glJeO_2ScQIcpGd6wKOdiz65qGphEwdzsVbqeDKZbI7CLwr5kNnOPCvl8IgNvKPDBD2aoIgXFQQldJmaOGHbECb4Me6o6e6A/s4032/IMG_0661.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYKK0-l266iMqKtbmpLfzZwIlNUXTB5KVQc8siJ73G-m520_tbT1AqIQdTuPRCexxKVYKkG_PQWSvENu9MZzSnqZ9NBcI8glJeO_2ScQIcpGd6wKOdiz65qGphEwdzsVbqeDKZbI7CLwr5kNnOPCvl8IgNvKPDBD2aoIgXFQQldJmaOGHbECb4Me6o6e6A/s320/IMG_0661.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b>Last weekend Dave and I drove to Sandpoint, Idaho to attend the Celebration of Life for John. Dave and John taught together at Sandpoint High School and continued to be good friends. John came to Arizona and stayed with us several times as well as staying here in Butte. We visited them at their home in Idaho. John and Leana are two of the nicest people I know. Leana wasn't retired yet so John visited us by himself. He and Dave golfed, went to the Phoenix Open (Waste Management) and we went to some sporting events.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b>I felt like I had known John for a long time. I loved his sense of humor. At the service, that was brought up many times by the friends who spoke. </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b>John was a respected educator and had so many friends. He touched the lives of the students he taught. Just talking to John, you knew that.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b>He loved sports but his favorites were fishing and duck hunting. He had his priorities straight in that he wanted to have time to be able to do what he loved so he didn't do a lot of coaching or after school activities to make time for what he loved.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b>Dave was really sad about John's death. He got sick and didn't live for very long. I remember the day that he told Dave that he didn't have much longer.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b>Dave spoke at the service about his friendship with John and his visits to Arizona. Here is what we wrote.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b><i>John and I taught and coached together for many years. We had some great times when we were both single. I'll save those stories for anyone who wants to come up and ask me later!</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b><i>John came to visit Sheila and I in Arizona a few years ago. We had tickets to the Arizona State vs. Arizona basketball game. Sheila is a die hard ASU fan and informed John that if he wanted to stay at our house, he had to root for the Sun Devils. Otherwise, there is a Motel 6 down the street where he could stay. </i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b><i>We went to the game and John got to witness first hand Sheila at an ASU game. She is always in top form when they play the Wildcats. I think that John was probably in a little bit of shock, but he rooted for the Devils and didn't have to stay at Motel 6! Fortunately, ASU beat Arizona or things might have gone down hill after the game!</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b><i>The next day we took John up to a small mining town named Globe. They have a very nice Indian casino there where we spent a few hours gambling. We were having lunch and as happened often with John and I, the talk turned to sports. My favorite professional football team are the Seahawks and Sheila likes the Cardinals. However, she doesn't threaten Motel 6 when it comes to any other teams. Sheila asked John while we were discussing this what his favorite professional football team was. Without hesitation, John responded very emphatically--my favorite team is the ARIZONA STATE SUN DEVILS! Needless to say, Sheila loved John from that day on!</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b><i>We loved having John visit us in both Arizona and Butte. He was such a great friend to me. His fun sense of humor was a huge part of who John was. I miss our talks, visits, and our friendship. Thank you, John. You were truly one of the good guys in this world!</i></b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b><i></i></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNQ_Y11HUM-QXSBKv95o6VT8uTqljskfRgJij6gFjXKzrvzq9jO9cVx5kmbso6duuTrOZh7UNtis3K92v8NMHx14ycWoZUtd4KMvKEsRHXV44pL8fj_1MRI1STM8VqSWNIpcOJnrRz9i8j8ZX5VG74O5Agjk_uqaSszhavgXM1eNe0fT6ZFGovHKKmv0tp/s4032/IMG_0644.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNQ_Y11HUM-QXSBKv95o6VT8uTqljskfRgJij6gFjXKzrvzq9jO9cVx5kmbso6duuTrOZh7UNtis3K92v8NMHx14ycWoZUtd4KMvKEsRHXV44pL8fj_1MRI1STM8VqSWNIpcOJnrRz9i8j8ZX5VG74O5Agjk_uqaSszhavgXM1eNe0fT6ZFGovHKKmv0tp/s320/IMG_0644.jpeg" width="240" /></a></i></b></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b><i><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQFXyXLYo9b3IuZGXsS2uBezuQBLLd20wAWTI2IRLXceb_9pc_otjzGkZZLLtwgULQKnt7Y50h93WO6uGAtwhBR-AXAUpAmvp4iy7Os3thK_uV0pFAEW59o0D7xNkIaZUDb3lGvDkApd5cUmHHe0hVsn2utC4nQGMAHf8nfU0AlhMRTAye70itXslaMgGC/s4032/IMG_0645.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQFXyXLYo9b3IuZGXsS2uBezuQBLLd20wAWTI2IRLXceb_9pc_otjzGkZZLLtwgULQKnt7Y50h93WO6uGAtwhBR-AXAUpAmvp4iy7Os3thK_uV0pFAEW59o0D7xNkIaZUDb3lGvDkApd5cUmHHe0hVsn2utC4nQGMAHf8nfU0AlhMRTAye70itXslaMgGC/s320/IMG_0645.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOJBQUuwsyrWj77xWrl7yOeI4Jhho3KHOU5rscT39IxpmpAis4rFF1oUC1cNf5b8U8Y1myJN4JELMdWkDelz0eSSQ-sEJ93agQ5p34LuVq55-LvHfPRPOEX8j-qAH-IbL7vGxdm6V4dxM2THTybrn-ygPlQHxGkrNNjPTANQAMzENvziqXmEO8XDFYuyay/s4032/IMG_0648.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOJBQUuwsyrWj77xWrl7yOeI4Jhho3KHOU5rscT39IxpmpAis4rFF1oUC1cNf5b8U8Y1myJN4JELMdWkDelz0eSSQ-sEJ93agQ5p34LuVq55-LvHfPRPOEX8j-qAH-IbL7vGxdm6V4dxM2THTybrn-ygPlQHxGkrNNjPTANQAMzENvziqXmEO8XDFYuyay/s320/IMG_0648.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /> </i> </b></span><br /><p></p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-60904536840557100662023-07-24T08:20:00.004-07:002023-07-28T09:38:07.360-07:00Reflections on cancer treatment<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: verdana;"><b>Since we have been in Montana and I have felt good, I have also had some time to think about all that has happened in my life since the diagnosis with cancer. When I say feeling good, I mean having the strength to do things. And I have done quite a bit over the last week and a half. We traveled to Butte over three days with our old guy, Seamus, and our young Boston, Griff. Traveling with pets is a little bit more work. I also felt good enough to help Dave with the driving, plus I enjoy driving. We make it a three day trip so that we aren't in the car for too many hours.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: verdana;"><b>When we got here, we had to unpack and put everything away. In addition, we had NO groceries. I normally do order and pickup anymore, but this first time we went to Walmart. I avoid Walmart most of the time, but it is basically the only choice for pricing. That was exhausting as we had so many things to pick up. However, it only took me an hour or so to recover which in itself is good.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: verdana;"><b>The last few months when I would get up in the morning, I didn't have the energy to make my coffee, etc. for a little bit after I got up. Sometimes I would have to sit down for a few minutes before I finished it. Same with when I tried to fix dinner. I could do a few things and then had to sit down before I could continue. Of course, this was very frustrating for me because I was able to do everything. Just doing the laundry was a huge chore. As I said in an earlier post, there were days I couldn't even get out of bed. Most days I went back to bed for a few hours. Needless to say, this was very hard for me.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: verdana;"><b>This was also a difficult time because I didn't want to share what was going on with a lot of people because it was such a difficult time. I wasn't able to go do things with friends. I was invited to many things but just couldn't make it. It has been interesting to see how friends have handled this. Most have been great but there have been other disappointments and hurts. I guess everyone handles things differently. I just don't get why you wouldn't be kind to someone who has cancer. </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: verdana;"><b>We had some tickets to both ASU basketball and the Diamondbacks games. I made myself go because I felt it was important to Dave plus I enjoy the games. However because of the lack of energy, it was very difficult, but I made it. I paid for it the next day, but I made it. I tried to never let anyone know how very difficult this was for me. The last Diamondback game we went to, we had to stand in line and it was extremely hot. I almost passed out and was so weak that I barely made it to our seats. Fortunately, Kerri and Cameron were with us.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: verdana;"><b>The night of graduation, I was worried about being able to walk the length of the football field and stand to give out diplomas. It was very difficult and there were a few times that I was afraid I wasn't going to make it but I pushed myself and was able to get through the entire ceremony without any real problems. Fortunately, there was a lot of time to sit in between.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: verdana;"><b>And I was always able to go to Board Meetings and participate fully. i would lay down all afternoon so that I would be able to do this. </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: verdana;"><b>And most important, I still was able to participate with my Tiger Buddy, which was another very important activity to me.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: verdana;"><b>Because I now have strength, it has kind of hit home about how much I couldn't do. I was on the immunotherapy for a little over three months. People can be on it for a longer time and it depends on side effects and results. Fortunately my results have been very positive so far. </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: verdana;"><b>I did okay with chemo but radiation about killed me. Fortunately, we stopped that. But it did cause my diverticulitis to flare up too many times. I haven't had an episode of it since last August, which is very good. Hopefully there won't be anymore.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: verdana;"><b>The fall was okay as I was recovering from everything but then I got hit with gallbladder surgery. It took me a bit longer to get over that because of everything else I had been through. But I got over it and was doing well. It really wasn't until mid March when things started to fall apart.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: verdana;"><b>By the time we stopped the immunotherapy, I had made the decision that the quality of life that I had was not worth it. It is hard to explain but when you have no energy, can't do much for yourself, and spend a lot of time in bed, that is certainly not a way to live. We couldn't make any plans or when we did, there was a chance we would have to cancel them. We did things during this time, but it was difficult at best.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: verdana;"><b>My purpose for writing this is to try to explain what cancer treatment is like. It is a devastating diagnosis and it causes one to look at life in a different way. I am feeling so good right now, but I have to be careful not to push myself too much because otherwise I pay for it. I kind of hit a wall every now and then but it doesn't take me long to bounce back.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: verdana;"><b>I do know that quality of life is extremely important. I can only hope and pray that my present condition continues and I am feeling very positive about it. But I want to feel good and I don't want to be a burden on my family and I have been for many months. In the future if it recurs, I will certainly weigh the side effects and quality of life before I go through treatment again. However, I am glad that I did the immunotherapy and the lousy few months were worth it to feel so good now.<br /></b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: verdana;"><b>This morning I am tired from our travels over the weekend to the memorial service for Dave's friend, John. Two months ago, I wouldn't have been able to do that. So there is much to be thankful for!</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: verdana;"><b>And I can cook dinner without sitting down, do the laundry, straighten up the house and do other chores as needed. I am trying to walk a little bit everyday but I know that will take some time. Two years and my age certainly mean that this isn't going to happen over night. For someone as impatient as me, that could be hard!<br /></b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #e06666; font-family: verdana;"><b> </b></span><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"> </p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-52420251041549742092023-07-18T16:39:00.006-07:002023-07-18T19:51:34.871-07:00CHEERS!!!<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: verdana;">There is a casino close to our house here in Butte that I love. Casinos in Montana are very different from those on the reservation or in Vegas. They are much smaller with only about 25 or 30 machines. You can lose a lot of money if you choose to, but the good part is that you can also spend time there and get entertained without losing a lot. I have often gone there and spent an hour or more on $20 and ended up either winning or breaking even. In most of them you get free drinks which is a nice perk!</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: verdana;">The one close to us is called Happy Endings. However, I call it Cheers because everyone knows my name! The great part is I have been going there since the first time we came to Butte. They employees are the same which says something about the way they are treated. It isn't often that happens that a "service" place has the same employees for such a long time.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: verdana;">Last night I received a message from Niki asking how I was because they were talking about me because they hadn't seen me. They were concerned about me which was amazing. I went in this afternoon for a bit and got hugs and genuine concern from Jen and DJ. I assured them that I was doing well. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: verdana;">I am not sure that having people at a casino wondering where I was is something that I should be "proud of" but it truly did make me feel good! I am certain I won't put this on my resume, etc.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: verdana;">However, I guess that things kind of even out. I stopped by Our Lady of the Rockies to do a couple of memorial lightings for some dear people who have passed. They were glad to see me there and wondered if I would be willing to volunteer. Last summer I told them that I would volunteer but I am thinking that I won't be able to do it this summer as we didn't get here until later than usual.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: verdana;">While I was at the casino, Dave got my side-by-side started, got gas and brought it to me! I love driving it. It is so much fun.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #660000; font-family: verdana;">I LOVE BUTTE! I am glad we don't live here all year because I don't think I could handle the cold. Having our summers here is the best of both worlds. It is such a great place and the people are wonderful!</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiZ-0iJcPfALmWQKAjJZliozJoM08FBZvawQcIaaO09YQ-xryM-ts55j2e4NiN7G4SKEGDBktQnwqrsv24QuDPoJBzY0eDSAc_9vuv5IJd4H5Ni53YBTRh0mYgp2-0R74-ztwQKXH_2WT-hAWJZtsKJFCZdFLqm9ldtRlap8-pEYzC2rwN3RBVeHGxiQMn/s4032/IMG_0615.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiZ-0iJcPfALmWQKAjJZliozJoM08FBZvawQcIaaO09YQ-xryM-ts55j2e4NiN7G4SKEGDBktQnwqrsv24QuDPoJBzY0eDSAc_9vuv5IJd4H5Ni53YBTRh0mYgp2-0R74-ztwQKXH_2WT-hAWJZtsKJFCZdFLqm9ldtRlap8-pEYzC2rwN3RBVeHGxiQMn/s320/IMG_0615.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><span style="color: #660000; font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p></p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-32015514006040477112023-07-16T08:15:00.006-07:002023-07-22T18:15:35.522-07:00Summer 2023 - Finally getting to Butte<p style="text-align: justify;">I haven't written much over the past several months about the ongoing battle on cancer. It is hard for me to talk about it as I don't want anyone feeling sorry for me. One thing that I have learned over the past almost two years is that I have absolutely no control over this awful disease. The only thing I can control is how I handle it. Lately it has been hard to be positive even when I try.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">We normally leave for Butte over Memorial Day weekend. This year, both Dave and I couldn't leave because of health issues. He has had some problems with his back and had to have it taken care of before we left. Originally, he was going to have surgery to clean up the area from his previous very invasive surgery. The doctor decided to try some shots in his back to see if that would work. It kept getting put off by a week and then another week until all of a sudden it was the end of June. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">He continued to golf which I couldn't believe because of the heat. He would then come home and go swimming so that was a good thing.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">As for me, the past several months have been very difficult. I had a scan done in January and there was a very small lymph node that was suspicious. I have learned to be an advocate for my health. The doctors weren't real concerned about it because it was so small. I insisted that it be tested and so I went to Banner University hospital for the biopsy as that is the only place that they can do a biopsy on some thing that small. The results were that it tested positive for cancer. My cancer was originally Stage 3. However, once it reoccurs no matter how small it goes to Stage 4, which is scary. But that doesn't mean that it can't be treated and that the prognosis can still be good.<br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">As a result, Dr. Bhoola put my on an immunotherapy regime that has shown a lot of promise with recurrence of endometrial cancer. It consisted of daily meds and an infusion every three weeks. This therapy helped my own cells fight the cancer. I also went through five sessions of targeted radiation. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">As with so many treatments, there are a lot of side effects that can happen. I normally don't want to know what the side effects might be because I think it is a bit psychological---wrong. I should have had a clue when I received a blood pressure monitor with the oral meds. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">I did okay at first but as time went on, I think I got every side effect possible. The biggest problems were very high blood pressure and having my thyroid get completely out of whack! As a result, I was not hungry and I have lost a significant amount of weight. The other big problem was a complete lack of energy. There were days that I had a hard time getting out of bed. There was a few days where I ended up in the hospital because I was so weak I couldn't even function.<br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The first part of June, I stopped the treatment because of the side effects. The radiologist had scheduled a PET Scan for July 5 to see how the radiation had done. Last Tuesday, I had an appointment with both doctors. My scan came back completely clear everywhere. Both doctors were extremely positive about how well the immunotherapy had worked for me despite the side effects. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">I already feel 1000% better. I can do things without being exhausted immediately. It is so nice to feel good again. My blood pressure continues to be on the high side, but I am seeing a cardiologist and monitoring it daily. Thyroid is still not working great, but it is getting better. I'm still on a lot of meds and hopefully that will improve as time goes on.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">We got to Butte on Friday. I was so glad to get here and I'm so happy we are able to spend at least the rest of the summer here. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">And it is so nice to feel good and be able to plan on doing things. From March until the end of May, I did very little and couldn't plan on anything because I didn't know how I would feel. Fortunately, I was able to continue my Board duties without any problems. That is still so important to me because it gives me a purpose. I feel it is an honor to serve our community in this way.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">So many things could still happen in the future, but I feel as though I have the best oncologist out there. I feel positive and now that I feel good, I can live each day in a positive way. I look forward to a long time of being able to attend sporting events with Dave, travel, have fun and be of service to our community!</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Here's to a great summer in Butte and an even greater year when we get back to Gilbert in September!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifJ15qDS_Q3OEZ8CLFAMP-WyBPIazRo7UWHQBdC75vgkBeaaOWdn51pOdd0S-X9O6qRHc3qAWZ3X96SLkJ5o3PbTDsvLfCqZmYyokhYLBprofGXdtG6h1C5iuMOlrL8V6jUSx4Rvuana_NfQDFGogq0QdXWSpCBJMT2BQFyFTrQRb2pjwoPPajoOJ47ozm/s640/IMG_0313.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifJ15qDS_Q3OEZ8CLFAMP-WyBPIazRo7UWHQBdC75vgkBeaaOWdn51pOdd0S-X9O6qRHc3qAWZ3X96SLkJ5o3PbTDsvLfCqZmYyokhYLBprofGXdtG6h1C5iuMOlrL8V6jUSx4Rvuana_NfQDFGogq0QdXWSpCBJMT2BQFyFTrQRb2pjwoPPajoOJ47ozm/s320/IMG_0313.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-14180108013708678042023-05-30T16:03:00.004-07:002023-05-31T12:59:58.771-07:00Mesquite High School Graduation--2023<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiphLIprEUHeFnn2CX48Z74n3IYrcvoCqWpZuqMKrnfGMudJQc2umink9rrUPt2K-GRNX3Gfo2cXIU-dYgu-yit5vMD2CfERG3PbH0QjCikuumw4n2O3HzZIliuEyKYBb7e0K_IwDGNkcBSlwSD863inWo7oR9y2HLFSDf__qdML_yOHV8HRlItBW5LBA/s4032/IMG_0543.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiphLIprEUHeFnn2CX48Z74n3IYrcvoCqWpZuqMKrnfGMudJQc2umink9rrUPt2K-GRNX3Gfo2cXIU-dYgu-yit5vMD2CfERG3PbH0QjCikuumw4n2O3HzZIliuEyKYBb7e0K_IwDGNkcBSlwSD863inWo7oR9y2HLFSDf__qdML_yOHV8HRlItBW5LBA/s320/IMG_0543.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYCFVouuYhf1DuAaAz8QEw-MF2gK13SK-Uxm2f5hjb16wNsIHy3-UDYZLG8jpPNrjM3-qc6nl2ud5xQDPjnEUP2vPDjtHBn5ELQ3QVCbaZqbvp8pm_I4LP4ZHI5IHaN10G9nkVbe23eAeNsb2WKxYWHbxAv0KKgVF9ACJLH09HaoPXI-awI11mxRLgeQ/s4032/IMG_0545.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYCFVouuYhf1DuAaAz8QEw-MF2gK13SK-Uxm2f5hjb16wNsIHy3-UDYZLG8jpPNrjM3-qc6nl2ud5xQDPjnEUP2vPDjtHBn5ELQ3QVCbaZqbvp8pm_I4LP4ZHI5IHaN10G9nkVbe23eAeNsb2WKxYWHbxAv0KKgVF9ACJLH09HaoPXI-awI11mxRLgeQ/s320/IMG_0545.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpbFG1Y9780Lai3A0kyPiAj08-MSE7kQ04uMnMdfY1Rd0w_5QOT5KCV5ZSIdP4nIuwbk5qRJtgNrZ6_uUcrE_qetw9v8TbNXGDyzvT4HqqzFkz3XIjs-ds1ncfT9WDlaR8sYI7Kvrq7vdyvRxWpIIi3ojnv1Kn5Oaa4b-GAVcdDRD02CWx0acw-zOk4A/s4032/IMG_0542.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpbFG1Y9780Lai3A0kyPiAj08-MSE7kQ04uMnMdfY1Rd0w_5QOT5KCV5ZSIdP4nIuwbk5qRJtgNrZ6_uUcrE_qetw9v8TbNXGDyzvT4HqqzFkz3XIjs-ds1ncfT9WDlaR8sYI7Kvrq7vdyvRxWpIIi3ojnv1Kn5Oaa4b-GAVcdDRD02CWx0acw-zOk4A/s320/IMG_0542.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR45eMAKeDOM1BKGOQBXFvcAV5Wi__ttOsPiTUAEqqSXcuI9FG5h8-J4PAQCPinJSIH2cd0Sjg0NyA8_tgrRdpc-kDw0-DHfc9rQaKypamk_-9Qzet3_qF3FZm4hFqxSvdT-BzRoKOII2kRecvehGRSOWI3ZFU-1mFMUs1cHJuaIJ36gNk1A2Qgpdukg/s4032/IMG_0541.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR45eMAKeDOM1BKGOQBXFvcAV5Wi__ttOsPiTUAEqqSXcuI9FG5h8-J4PAQCPinJSIH2cd0Sjg0NyA8_tgrRdpc-kDw0-DHfc9rQaKypamk_-9Qzet3_qF3FZm4hFqxSvdT-BzRoKOII2kRecvehGRSOWI3ZFU-1mFMUs1cHJuaIJ36gNk1A2Qgpdukg/s320/IMG_0541.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b>I had the honor and the privilege to be the Governing Board representative for the Mesquite High School Graduation last Thursday evening. I have wanted to put down in words what an incredible ceremony it was, but I have had a very hard time finding the words to describe what took place that night. I decided that putting it on my blog might be a bit easier...........</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b>I have done Mesquite's graduation every year. In previous years, we could do more than one because they different schools were on different dates and some were at ASU. After the pandemic, all graduations are at the football stadiums on the same night so one Board Member attends one of the five comprehensive high school graduations. Up until this year, students who I gave a kindergarten diploma to at Gilbert El were still in school. My last class was last year, but there are still a lot of families that I have known for many years. And that is why I asked to do Mesquite not knowing the powerful impact that it would have on me.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b>The graduation was like all graduations with excitement in the air. Both the salutatorians gave great speeches (I have not heard one that wasn't good in all of the years I have attended graduations). They are filled with anticipation, pride and nostalgia. </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b>I was not prepared for the valedictory speech! And I will try to get what she said as best I can. This unbelievable young woman was so composed and spoke from her heart. She told about how hard she worked to become the valedictorian and the sacrifices she made and the important activities that she gave up because she was so driven to make sure that she accomplished this. She spoke about this a bit and then got into the heart of her reason for doing this. She told of how her mom was diagnosed with colo-rectal cancer when she was very young and how she and her brother were shuffled around to different family members and friends while her mom received treatment. Her brother was about four years older than she is. She told about how they talked at a very young age when their mom was undergoing this treatment about how they wanted to both be valedictorians, go to Harvard or Yale and become medical researchers and find a cure for cancer. It was truly a goal for both of them. </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b>Their mom responded to her treatment and their lives returned to normal. However, their quest to excel in school did not change. Then her brother was diagnosed with a rare form of brain cancer. He died on her 13th birthday. She dedicated her valedictory address to him because he would not be able to achieve that goal. She dedicated all of her future goals to him too and spoke about how all they were going to do that he would never be able to do. Having been to so many graduations, it is hard for there not to be a lot of crowd noise. However, it was something I have never seen before. The entire stadium was as quiet as if no one was there. Just when I thought my tears couldn't get any more, she told about her mom and how her cancer came back at the beginning of this school year and that she only lived a few months. During all of the time her mom was sick, she continued with her studies so that she could keep her promise to her brother. She told us about how all that she and her brother planned were coming to fruition for her. She was accepted to both Harvard and Yale and has chosen Yale where she will pursue a degree in medical (cancer) research. When she got to the part about thanking people, she started with her dad. That was the only time she broke down a little throughout this speech. And the ENTIRE audience started to clap and gave her dad such a round of applause. </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b>I know I would have been touched no matter what by this talk. However, my own circumstances and battle with cancer really brought it all home to me. Right after she finished, we were to give out the diplomas. I had THREE sentences to read and I had to fight to remain composed which I did.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b>The very first person to get a diplomas was this young lady and she was on my side. I asked her if I could give her a hug. I got the biggest hug from her and she thanked me profusely. It was amazing at so many levels.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b>The rest of the ceremony was great. I will always be grateful that I have had the opportunity to give to diplomas to so many students through the years, but tonight meant more to me than any other time! I have no doubt that this young lady will achieve great things in life and maybe will even find a cure for cancer. She has overcome so much adversity and has such a wonderful attitude that we can only admire. Our future is certainly in great hands with young people like this!</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwYtdW4qL7IhYj9iGXXWIL0M6XuzH2vtiE2GmDYWoifXP3Itz9UZaYpE6NIYjrzPSBhyMZ3WUL-I7LdK6mHCpZY0U6Yyn7QHVYPGKB0_wAbLrYPf3R_z2uP5k0iCZEEbRLJ_0-zA_kC-RQ5HUfv15B0sva_z7trYoq8UOTXJqPZmFvexlTXy7mEPFSkw/s4032/IMG_0558.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwYtdW4qL7IhYj9iGXXWIL0M6XuzH2vtiE2GmDYWoifXP3Itz9UZaYpE6NIYjrzPSBhyMZ3WUL-I7LdK6mHCpZY0U6Yyn7QHVYPGKB0_wAbLrYPf3R_z2uP5k0iCZEEbRLJ_0-zA_kC-RQ5HUfv15B0sva_z7trYoq8UOTXJqPZmFvexlTXy7mEPFSkw/s320/IMG_0558.jpeg" width="240" /></a></b></span></div><span style="color: #0b5394; font-family: trebuchet;"><b><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzn-jNuZR6FhB1DEjXf9zCiOPrpBfpd3AmpVBn3Dfx4L7QI6ZxipvZabGdMqY2tCriSgO1uJP60NnSi3GwKlrmCYWVTknw4v-8iBgxGX_4QpmzYYoHVzTy_PHw9h_FyB9_0K3HD5NSJI4hc_JrgbqH2ozMdpv4N-jxvIducR_mdhxHOC8kJ6-yc0Nb2w/s4032/IMG_0559.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzn-jNuZR6FhB1DEjXf9zCiOPrpBfpd3AmpVBn3Dfx4L7QI6ZxipvZabGdMqY2tCriSgO1uJP60NnSi3GwKlrmCYWVTknw4v-8iBgxGX_4QpmzYYoHVzTy_PHw9h_FyB9_0K3HD5NSJI4hc_JrgbqH2ozMdpv4N-jxvIducR_mdhxHOC8kJ6-yc0Nb2w/s320/IMG_0559.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /> </b></span><br /><p></p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-32006400872760447032023-05-09T19:05:00.002-07:002023-05-09T19:05:45.350-07:00Welcome Griffey!<p style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB3BZ3O_y9zawYhCDkmdnXHboa8iWW1hqDB_ivrujI8afCdH3LLzybwnZ0-UDt7aBRCLFNGB6MH6Pi3WphAeClooqiKr5N_HRH1l8uxo0_L02QXJKTnVOxDcFnLEdzqlghxAxqkuTufy4lRqR8LUpUFR02lTzlbM95ZXuP1fML4N0CRCFdOk2rSK-xBg/s4032/IMG_0466.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB3BZ3O_y9zawYhCDkmdnXHboa8iWW1hqDB_ivrujI8afCdH3LLzybwnZ0-UDt7aBRCLFNGB6MH6Pi3WphAeClooqiKr5N_HRH1l8uxo0_L02QXJKTnVOxDcFnLEdzqlghxAxqkuTufy4lRqR8LUpUFR02lTzlbM95ZXuP1fML4N0CRCFdOk2rSK-xBg/s320/IMG_0466.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7hEKmehTfjXxVPNJXFdscVSYw6Y7he9-QIwAfj0a9ROV4g3zpXeocN_PTtby1HmARRqC8U-6URONP_g43lUJJEExiZWoNtnfcK-GUSDPF06LYHRDTP49DmQvoJX_ZjIAIm8BP0HyJMfE2K3LrHdes48jF2Xa47Dqv0FGe1SHJe0eui6uN0P29wjWwhQ/s4032/IMG_0450.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7hEKmehTfjXxVPNJXFdscVSYw6Y7he9-QIwAfj0a9ROV4g3zpXeocN_PTtby1HmARRqC8U-6URONP_g43lUJJEExiZWoNtnfcK-GUSDPF06LYHRDTP49DmQvoJX_ZjIAIm8BP0HyJMfE2K3LrHdes48jF2Xa47Dqv0FGe1SHJe0eui6uN0P29wjWwhQ/s320/IMG_0450.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>The top picture is certainly not what we normally see! However, we are thrilled with our little Boston "Terror" puppy named after Ken Griffey, Jr. also known as Griff. We got him February 4 when he was two months old. He is a lilac Boston and a brindle. His colors are really pretty.<br /></b></span><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Dave had Bostons when he lived in Washington and absolutely loved both Reggie and Cooper. It was a bit different for me to not get a pug, even though they are similar. When I lost my Diego in January, I guess I just couldn't get another pug as there will never be a replacement for Diego in my heart.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Seamus isn't really thrilled with him as we expected. However, he has learned to tolerate him and they even play together a little bit.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Griff has already stolen my heart, though. He is full of it, but he is also loves to cuddle. He is a lover and is smart. He has two speeds--wild or asleep. It has been a very long time since I have had a puppy and I forgot how much "work" they are. With all that has happened in the last year with my health, etc., having Griff has been a lot of fun and given us a lot of laughter. </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Although Griff isn't a pug, I absolutely am thrilled that we have him. He has brought a lot of FUN into our lives. However, that is only Dave's and my opinion. Seamus has a very different one I am sure!!!!</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b> </b></span><br /></p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-36813994292211781482023-05-07T13:14:00.001-07:002023-05-07T13:14:12.349-07:00Celebrating our Fifth Anniversary in Montana<p style="text-align: justify;">Dave and I flew up to Butte on Wednesday, May 3 to participate in his 50th reunion. He graduated from the University of Montana Western in 1973. They honored the graduates at a special luncheon on Friday (our anniversary) and then at the graduation on Saturday morning. It was such a nice gesture. I wish more colleges could do something like this, but it would have to be a small school.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-aeFHF4zUttxPyFc8gt_x7klubCifg7jjzpvUnqug9qcdqNv6lfEK5R5eY4GxcLDpstPJk1QLV1xBgJlTMcL4oev5QN5cSQHfR1cQLX-M67rAbQ9Y7czNKAp04CSsug4o9-2GkLDfmFiv5KbBDBjfH_3_eBrF5QAInP8QbYUYrYgYDsYw727c4A3fHA/s4032/IMG_0494.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-aeFHF4zUttxPyFc8gt_x7klubCifg7jjzpvUnqug9qcdqNv6lfEK5R5eY4GxcLDpstPJk1QLV1xBgJlTMcL4oev5QN5cSQHfR1cQLX-M67rAbQ9Y7czNKAp04CSsug4o9-2GkLDfmFiv5KbBDBjfH_3_eBrF5QAInP8QbYUYrYgYDsYw727c4A3fHA/s320/IMG_0494.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW6NZkMNCknFqapDyKmRS3FPAN_HHpGbEr7exnEkKKnP_tdYt-K0FqJDpOajg5ct797WPN8u5pvhHPnW3-NBXhwL46Yseyi7iPXo1o0VaDHh21AejtbI-Kzj9y8oHP6aNv8l47gTEOxP94gDFz64W3SsvXuE5jwhF_DssSgp0iPolstcZJ28MNHbXaXA/s4032/IMG_0493.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW6NZkMNCknFqapDyKmRS3FPAN_HHpGbEr7exnEkKKnP_tdYt-K0FqJDpOajg5ct797WPN8u5pvhHPnW3-NBXhwL46Yseyi7iPXo1o0VaDHh21AejtbI-Kzj9y8oHP6aNv8l47gTEOxP94gDFz64W3SsvXuE5jwhF_DssSgp0iPolstcZJ28MNHbXaXA/s320/IMG_0493.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_7op7_rWvOo-NGCl_Hn2tU0T5Hs7SM0oidhDEgyExE7zMSniRSMkn-ftXo0tjXsBuQd6yndKs79t8Gv7ze8j2S0sfnGxCsfGHA14CVL_CLjiiAB4s2tEt6nvSwR37O3TyKojsT1cJUU1Xr01iOriAYOoLD1pLIng_Cc-9OWNe1q9U56vNzFonrRpIEg/s4032/IMG_0492.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_7op7_rWvOo-NGCl_Hn2tU0T5Hs7SM0oidhDEgyExE7zMSniRSMkn-ftXo0tjXsBuQd6yndKs79t8Gv7ze8j2S0sfnGxCsfGHA14CVL_CLjiiAB4s2tEt6nvSwR37O3TyKojsT1cJUU1Xr01iOriAYOoLD1pLIng_Cc-9OWNe1q9U56vNzFonrRpIEg/s320/IMG_0492.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFk3hVqEi7g6cLP0qbee4XEWXyWUnnijcX5wPj6OeFfaavhNsf8F_4u4dtJ5dWWilKOhnIScP1o3WOAF0ZyGN6J6bwO3XcfCeUFnZNWshOHkP-jLMfjwq2VbmDCsmiPYkxikYHyqgNk1B0QM1wGcW9muiDoRWKVA_fj-6NmYWLaaPqmYMsR9F9HkqiTg/s3021/IMG_0496.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2522" data-original-width="3021" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFk3hVqEi7g6cLP0qbee4XEWXyWUnnijcX5wPj6OeFfaavhNsf8F_4u4dtJ5dWWilKOhnIScP1o3WOAF0ZyGN6J6bwO3XcfCeUFnZNWshOHkP-jLMfjwq2VbmDCsmiPYkxikYHyqgNk1B0QM1wGcW9muiDoRWKVA_fj-6NmYWLaaPqmYMsR9F9HkqiTg/s320/IMG_0496.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /> <br /><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">We drove up from Butte on Friday and spent the night in Dillon. We had our anniversary dinner with two of his friends at the Lion's Den--a very good steak house. Before we left, these beautiful flowers were delivered and I have enjoyed looking at them.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqwE2yu6rxfFAPsA5LAchHXtEQjIeuLxXRj0t-AEC2-tekFAEaLfERBHkiUUkwFgu0szJ3ox8H3oYuB-qeHwGATJzu7ZWdIF3BkUbQStvUOMzzcr2kvRo_JcZ4WCI-8n5IMtq3D6DCHMs3p4Ww2TeRb1VGgc4T2H_HHxyTNCyBFWHo2NJ4rsBS5a4PBQ/s4032/IMG_0472.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqwE2yu6rxfFAPsA5LAchHXtEQjIeuLxXRj0t-AEC2-tekFAEaLfERBHkiUUkwFgu0szJ3ox8H3oYuB-qeHwGATJzu7ZWdIF3BkUbQStvUOMzzcr2kvRo_JcZ4WCI-8n5IMtq3D6DCHMs3p4Ww2TeRb1VGgc4T2H_HHxyTNCyBFWHo2NJ4rsBS5a4PBQ/s320/IMG_0472.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">The weather has been cold. Last night we had snow on the mountains and woke up to this beautiful view from our front window.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP1mLLNCP1kQsMBN-Bj0d7BWyg5Ks4SVVSRK6TBlzw9x4r6K_XrA5YSz-h7btVbSPQp-nh9-KiEERHqrXLzSbx1aBLidO_zrBIb1lgnYhEi13eVQZo5aCOxS2VMD7Okacclst59jxPZ6WOUQ0rvTF9AiOigpj0b0XZUWjVdYFgqzL8fRmbQgtheBd10A/s3018/IMG_0504.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2508" data-original-width="3018" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP1mLLNCP1kQsMBN-Bj0d7BWyg5Ks4SVVSRK6TBlzw9x4r6K_XrA5YSz-h7btVbSPQp-nh9-KiEERHqrXLzSbx1aBLidO_zrBIb1lgnYhEi13eVQZo5aCOxS2VMD7Okacclst59jxPZ6WOUQ0rvTF9AiOigpj0b0XZUWjVdYFgqzL8fRmbQgtheBd10A/s320/IMG_0504.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: left;">We leave to head back to Arizona tomorrow as we have doctor appointments and I have a board meeting. Not sure when we are going to get back for the summer. Dave has to get his back "cleaned up" from the previous back surgery he had a few years ago. </p><p style="text-align: left;">I love our time spent in Butte. Although it is cold, it was too short a time. But we will back!<br /></p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-4309546180022393232023-01-07T12:37:00.000-07:002023-01-07T12:37:09.331-07:00HARD TO SAY GOOD-BYE!<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="-moz-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; word-spacing: 0px;">Run free my sweet Diego! Thursday was such a difficult day saying good-by to my old guy. He has been with me through thick and thin for the last almost 14 years. He was with me in Gilbert and then in Douglas for five years, back to Gilbert and the last five summers in Montana. </span></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="-moz-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; word-spacing: 0px;">He loved going to our cabin in the Chiricahau Mountains and Montana where he could run free. He was the most loyal pet I have ever had. </span></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="-moz-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; word-spacing: 0px;">When we were in Douglas, my Aunt </span><span style="-moz-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; word-spacing: 0px;"><a class="x1i10hfl xjbqb8w x6umtig x1b1mbwd xaqea5y xav7gou x9f619 x1ypdohk xt0psk2 xe8uvvx xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r xexx8yu x4uap5 x18d9i69 xkhd6sd x16tdsg8 x1hl2dhg xggy1nq x1a2a7pz xt0b8zv x1qq9wsj xo1l8bm" href="https://www.facebook.com/teresa.scott.10048?__cft__[0]=AZWCLldrfqZjBeO8qUzG3pmBhVXx2lttZAxxrssGv5gtpgUmFA-HwmxnWgcsG8Ewdy0HKN-hyosGJr4v7x2UfmyFzN9PcBm5It03wrI6XzyDxC8GRTXR3Ij7x7wLre5G8GCpsICoKUILruetoVTQneVyo8iM5F9PjWH6wq9znQRljQ&__tn__=-]K-R" role="link" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; color: var(--accent); cursor: pointer; display: inline; font-weight: 400; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: inherit; text-decoration: none; touch-action: manipulation;" tabindex="0"><span class="xt0psk2" style="display: inline;">Teresa Scott</span></a></span><span style="-moz-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; word-spacing: 0px;"> wasn't so </span><span style="-moz-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; word-spacing: 0px;"></span><span style="-moz-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; word-spacing: 0px;">sure about me bringing the pugs. She grew to love James (as she called him) and he was so much company for her. My favorite story was the day Diego ate her rosary beads. I was thinking this was it but she said it was her fault for leaving them out and not giving him enough attention. If you knewTeresa, her rosary beads were her most important possession. I am sure she is up there with him with her rosary beads for him. </span></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="-moz-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; word-spacing: 0px;">Every night around 4:30 he wanted out to wait for me on the front porch--it didn't matter how cold or how long it was, he waited for me to get home. </span></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="-moz-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(5, 5, 5); color: #050505; display: inline !important; float: none; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; text-align: start; text-decoration: none; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: pre-wrap; word-spacing: 0px;">I will always love him, but know he is in a better place and is pain free. This picture depicts where I think he is now--enjoying romping through the grass without a leash. I am grateful for his loyalty and I thank him for enriching my life. He also changed his name when Dave and I got married. Goodby sweet Diego Uggetti. You were the best!</span></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG-0XYPMgEgs7p4vmkaH6mhMUdOFwJFXVfD5swwe5_9ihxIHfCDzByc1BRf4rG90gIMbYjL1F-mqxRu-1VcowoZqiUSasz3ssBXsSU2008CV7oLXriqsVfP2HywBn1eMCvmP6e_PqihjiryxpU6YZIYfat2P5itDYKo6-t9sIp0J8Pw-hp_DZyod9S8g/s4032/IMG_0849.heic" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG-0XYPMgEgs7p4vmkaH6mhMUdOFwJFXVfD5swwe5_9ihxIHfCDzByc1BRf4rG90gIMbYjL1F-mqxRu-1VcowoZqiUSasz3ssBXsSU2008CV7oLXriqsVfP2HywBn1eMCvmP6e_PqihjiryxpU6YZIYfat2P5itDYKo6-t9sIp0J8Pw-hp_DZyod9S8g/s320/IMG_0849.heic" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="x1n2onr6" id="jsc_c_ar" style="font-family: inherit; position: relative;"><br /></div>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-50398284117483629922022-12-12T17:42:00.014-07:002022-12-13T13:47:13.855-07:00Second Three Month Check Up<p> Haven't written much lately. It has been a busy, happy, and tough three months. However, my three month check up went well. Only issue is I need a scan and it isn't scheduled until Dec. 30. So three more weeks of worry!</p><p>However, during the last three months I have had gallbladder surgery. I didn't know I had a problem until it showed up on scans. It could have been more serious if I hadn't taken care of it. I did very well after the first few days.</p><p>I am back to almost 100% and doing a lot of board related activities, plus events with friends, going to sports events with Dave, and things around the house and back to cooking.</p><p>My hair has come back black and grey. I always had brown hair. I am wearing it short because that is all that it has grown, I have it in a pixie cut. Dave likes it and I get a lot of compliments (not sure if people are just being nice). It is certainly easy! I think I look a lot like my mom!</p><p>I am blessed and hope to continue to be cancer free and active as before. It has been a journey but I think I have done pretty good with this one I didn't want to be on!</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ZXRU9hvvEsaeOiE3IYsdvcJT1WdxV52PERkgY6mbognCwWLmGqkQ8NRDJdMqzr_7DNHTdKT30Bxogyb6gOaCeu_FziRkjuttfHLlBZD1N2diUnK8KBYnmlz1q-BsbWeFIjP4_DSmvCojIwd43oa1FAwANpuats3fhDVCLCKhyHfeyilQ1uXdsMbytw/s500/mail.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="375" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ZXRU9hvvEsaeOiE3IYsdvcJT1WdxV52PERkgY6mbognCwWLmGqkQ8NRDJdMqzr_7DNHTdKT30Bxogyb6gOaCeu_FziRkjuttfHLlBZD1N2diUnK8KBYnmlz1q-BsbWeFIjP4_DSmvCojIwd43oa1FAwANpuats3fhDVCLCKhyHfeyilQ1uXdsMbytw/s320/mail.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8JvutqBJKJoQd74-kdb3z2-JJEwRkA2IcJnJYQKxPgMmX7MmDSMqNP1icycLmzlMZJYNW5WCddZu-i1oJv5j-PQzdSE39SmNDwNUnKjU5We-6f9PSVQzdrQX9SeLoqGpC71Vuac4qJG7m5kjqbPGLAsL54Nww6FGyCVHfiqE8V6mJfVbqG1cQmCnvcA/s490/IMG_0316.heic" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="490" data-original-width="336" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8JvutqBJKJoQd74-kdb3z2-JJEwRkA2IcJnJYQKxPgMmX7MmDSMqNP1icycLmzlMZJYNW5WCddZu-i1oJv5j-PQzdSE39SmNDwNUnKjU5We-6f9PSVQzdrQX9SeLoqGpC71Vuac4qJG7m5kjqbPGLAsL54Nww6FGyCVHfiqE8V6mJfVbqG1cQmCnvcA/s320/IMG_0316.heic" width="219" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-25155394729427222962022-09-14T18:51:00.000-07:002022-09-14T18:51:02.466-07:00Three Month Oncologist Appointment<p> Three month appointment--NED (No Evidence of Disease)! Big relief after a few very difficult days worrying!<br /></p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-36629680371801526402022-07-09T14:10:00.003-07:002022-07-11T18:50:55.487-07:00Daniel P. Uggetti 1956-2022<p style="text-align: justify;">Dave's brother, Dan, passed away unexpectedly on June 10, 2022. I got the news when I landed in Salt Lake City on my way to Butte. Dave and Patrick had driven up earlier with the pugs.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Dave was Dan's legal guardian as Dan had some special needs. He could live on his own, had held a job for many years and could function well, but there were a few things that he wasn't able to do on his own that required a guardian. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">When Dave's parents died, Dave and his sister, Donna, put their part of the inheritance into a Trust to make sure that Dan had what was needed. I so admire that they both did this for their brother. This kind of devotion to a sibling isn't seen that often. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Dave handled issues with Dan and his usual calm and kind way. Dan was living in a low income senior apartment that met his needs. He had to pay for his rent, food, etc., but the trust took care of a cleaning lady, cable television and any other emergency needs that came up.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">The Saturday before he died, Dave and Patrick took him out to dinner. Dave was very worried about him as he was not doing well and had a hard time walking, Dave tried to talk him into going to the doctor, but Dan refused. Five days later he died. Although it was sudden, it wasn't totally unexpected. The cause of death was ruled a heart attack. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"> Their cousin, John, is a deacon at St Ann's Church did the ceremony and he did a wonderful job. Their cousin, Peggy, delivered the beautiful eulogy.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">After the services, a reception was held at the McQueen Club. Dave's dad (Pete) and uncle (Chuck) spent many nights at the McQueen Club. It had been located in their neighborhood (McQueen) until about 1978 when the Anaconda Company needed the land for mining, That is when the house we live in was moved from McQueen to where we are now. The reception was attended by the large extended family and many friends of Dan's and the Uggettis. It was very nice meal and get together. I always meet so many people that have known Dave since he was a little kid.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Here is the obituary that was in the Montana Standard as well as a copy of the funeral card:</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtbYxOhnb7-VbkscinLtsmmxo49WzoGCPpMo1fOIdnQuHFYNjR7XAVrlhVafZjkG9YriKrDf6xBn0KgvZSU2Gi8sOtN6So8xUaA61VpAnp81buIXzUxxmrug9mSqEpIh2GEVCTwYZdiNjeEIhd6Od4kFkzQslvTGZcSII9qAlXItMlqeYE1O0Mr1LxxA/s4032/IMG_2047.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtbYxOhnb7-VbkscinLtsmmxo49WzoGCPpMo1fOIdnQuHFYNjR7XAVrlhVafZjkG9YriKrDf6xBn0KgvZSU2Gi8sOtN6So8xUaA61VpAnp81buIXzUxxmrug9mSqEpIh2GEVCTwYZdiNjeEIhd6Od4kFkzQslvTGZcSII9qAlXItMlqeYE1O0Mr1LxxA/s320/IMG_2047.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioZxYp5O0mqHNQ9yd8ZV9Fs2IQHRUJylhnZiqzE5TbS7mZTH99q3BTs9UkMPDoq6Jz_dqBP6iPOyCBu3YsutSxTeUt50TR-meDl5KLmksgGlf_Mdf-Wce4m37R3vtfEFJtQn-HXEK1xJF-fWlcTHZnP8oPqoglcO8hB8PZq_ojhWc3mKyIHq0LNh0kIg/s4032/IMG_2048.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioZxYp5O0mqHNQ9yd8ZV9Fs2IQHRUJylhnZiqzE5TbS7mZTH99q3BTs9UkMPDoq6Jz_dqBP6iPOyCBu3YsutSxTeUt50TR-meDl5KLmksgGlf_Mdf-Wce4m37R3vtfEFJtQn-HXEK1xJF-fWlcTHZnP8oPqoglcO8hB8PZq_ojhWc3mKyIHq0LNh0kIg/s320/IMG_2048.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM_knUjhrqzBtaqyElFLOGTXYbUWKqrlLbUdYIA_87fsL5r7hZXqkE91Ags4ssuKgoTNaY9hIFhRIWm5kWzYtYZC4jAbdiyDXH4a1aKeUMSEDhSwMHJZw9c32ySzNV1QjxPr5NgDOtdypdEVHLjLb-BITc4ub3r9eFuot9mR7saz97lgxYfVnPnYnCmQ/w216-h288/IMG_2049.jpeg" width="216" /> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">DANIEL PETE "PUMP' UGGETTI</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">May 20, 1956--June 10, 2022</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Daniel Pete "Dan" Uggetti, known as Pumo or Pumi to many of his friends, passed away at home of natural causes on Thursday, June 10, 2022. The son of Pete And Dorothy Uggetti, he was prematurely born in Butte on May 20, 1956. The whole extended family was thrilled when he was able to come home about three months later. Dan grew up in McQueen with his brother, David, and his sister, Donna. With thier cousins in an adjoining duplex, the Uggettis were part of a tight knit community surrounded by their parents and grandparents. Many relatives gathered at the Uggetti house for the annual July 4th picnic and no one left hungry. The friends and neighbors of McQueen knew everyone so it was difficult to get away with many shenanigans. Attending mass every Sunday was a big part of Dan's upbringing. He attended St. Helena's in Meaderville then Holy Savior in McQueen.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">When Dan was young, most weekends were spent helping his father, uncle, brother, and cousins work on whatever project the two Uggetti fathers decided was important. He also spent many summer at the Patacini ranch helping work never-ending chores with occasional trips to swim at Barkell Hot Springs after long days putting up hay.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Dan attended Butte Public Schools. He was employed by the Anaconda Company, other construction companies and was a member of the Laborers Union. He worked for Butte-Silver Bow County for many years, mostly at the Civic Center.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">In 1978, as McQueen was slated to be mined by the ADM, the two Uggetti families had the duplex, built by Pete and Chuck, moved to the original Perelli homestead on Western Blvd. Dan continued to live the next 40 years in the same house where he grew up. Continental Gardens in Butte was his home for the last three years.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Dan was the proud owner of a ski boat. He loved taking friends and family to Lakeside or Canyon Ferry on a hot summer day to ride in his boat or ski. After selling his boat, he still went to Canyon Ferry with his best friend, Randy Rodoni, whom Dan called "The Barber". When he was younger, he had a great time camping riding his ATV, and motorcycle. Over the years, Dan attended many rock concerts with his cousin, Jim Patacini. The Doobie Brothers were among his favorite bands to follow. Dan also enjoyed the swimming pools at the YMCA. After retirement he enjoyed socializing at the casinos in Butte and occasionally won. Dan rarely missed going to lunch at the Belmont Senior Center. He always said how much he appreciated the services and great food that the staff of the Belmont provided and that you couldn't beat the price.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Dan loved almost all of his cars and trucks. By far his favorites were his 55 Chevy truck that he bought from his father and his 79 Mercury Cougar that was brand new. Most of his vehicles were always spotless.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Christmas was one of his favorite holidays. He loved making povitica with his sister or Randy, which he enjoyed giving as gifts. He also enjoyed making pasties with his mother many times throughout the year. Dan learned how to make Italian sausage with the "secret recipe" from his father and was delighted to show his brother-in-law how to do it. Dan loved the NY Yankees and was delighted one year with a birthday present to watch the Yankees play the Mariners in Seattle. Another favorite trip of his was to the Rose Bowl and Parade with his mom and brother.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Dan is survived by his immediate family David (Sheila), Donna (Bill Jackson), and Donna's children, Steven Jackson and Janine Jackson (John Ryan). Dan enjoyed watching his niece and nephew grow as they spent many summers in Butte. Also surviving are Aunts Darlene Patacini Hepola and Retha Sigman, numerous cousins, and many close friends.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Pete and Dorothy, grandparents, Minnie and Dominic Uggetti and Emsley, Jesse and Elsie Sigman, many aunts and uncles, Claude and Mildred Sigman, Loren Sigman, Pete Patacini, Margaret and Len Dobbins and Gene Beindreiff, Albina and Carmen Campanella, Lawrencina and Willi Barker, Chuck and Betty Uggetti, and Vicky and Don Renz. He was also preceded in death by several cousins.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Belmont Senior Center at 615 E. Mercury, Butte, MT, or a charity of your choice.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Friends may call on Friday, June 17, 2022, after 10:00 am in the Duggan Dolan Mortuary Chapel. Funeral Services will be celebrated at 11:00 am. A further celebration of Dan's life will be take place immediately following services at the Mortuary. His ashes will be privately placed with his parents at Mountain View Cemetery. Rest in peace, Dan. You were a very special person and one of a kind. Many thanks to Peggy Patacini Eggen and Steven Jackson for help with this obituary.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA51UcMsrGtoFWR4VnzBUKhu0RuQ3OpDZWXTVAaYgfhELeW8s-ks1uTgZ1ixIVaAMvHL0O6U9o42Ywqyh3Q8gZXTzrZpu2cZLdu5US8re9HQskCFPON4kF6C9Q-MWbUYsXMGgBmL_2nf4Dt5EmJ7t7V7hUp3PdwTahJQHX6nB4MObEbTJWGFI9DdcsAA/s640/IMG_3200.heic" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA51UcMsrGtoFWR4VnzBUKhu0RuQ3OpDZWXTVAaYgfhELeW8s-ks1uTgZ1ixIVaAMvHL0O6U9o42Ywqyh3Q8gZXTzrZpu2cZLdu5US8re9HQskCFPON4kF6C9Q-MWbUYsXMGgBmL_2nf4Dt5EmJ7t7V7hUp3PdwTahJQHX6nB4MObEbTJWGFI9DdcsAA/s320/IMG_3200.heic" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyh1SVQXKAj3e7yIgIRcD6ZyN68sMGrxlbbxcu0WqRYuCFKaqlMo0tnY-A6AiHzTOc4OfrqFCsIPPiR1ddJQ01y76DqtvsevIf4-5WgHFizY0Ql6Mf8uMM9EWqnEHWYnKsolFqcJlKSJOZXAPzN0oLVTAwDafLuRUF403HH0C7Pfc9g0bWlSR1RXxJyA/s640/IMG_3201.heic" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyh1SVQXKAj3e7yIgIRcD6ZyN68sMGrxlbbxcu0WqRYuCFKaqlMo0tnY-A6AiHzTOc4OfrqFCsIPPiR1ddJQ01y76DqtvsevIf4-5WgHFizY0Ql6Mf8uMM9EWqnEHWYnKsolFqcJlKSJOZXAPzN0oLVTAwDafLuRUF403HH0C7Pfc9g0bWlSR1RXxJyA/s320/IMG_3201.heic" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Dan's ashes were placed with his parents in the same vault. They were able to fit them in and there will be a plaque put up next to the one for his parents. We did this privately.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">As I said, I have so much respect for Dave and Donna and what they did to ensure that Dan had a comfortable life! They were both devoted to him and made sure that he was well taken care of!!<br /></div>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-45909244553708433042022-06-11T20:56:00.002-07:002022-06-11T20:56:58.613-07:00Good News and Sad News <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Wednesday I had my scheduled PET Scan to see how I am doing now that I have finished the last chemo treatment. I think I have had every scan possible over the last nine months. The PET Scan is very thorough and was done from the top of my head to below my knees. I had one done in January and at that time I was completely clear. </b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Needless to say, I was very nervous about the results. Waiting for the results is extremely difficult. </b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>I was scheduled to fly to Butte on Thursday and I was very anxious to get up here. Dave had driven earlier with the pugs and his golf clubs. I think it was the longest we have been apart. However, I had one more chemo. Judy stayed with me and I made it through the rough days fairly well.</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>When I got to Salt Lake and turned on my phone, I had a bunch of messages. Dave's brother, Dan, had passed away. Although his health wasn't great, this was not expected. His sister found him and called Dave immediately. Dave was Dan's guardian because he had some special needs. However, he was able to live on his own.</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Friday Dave and his sister had to make all of the funeral arrangements which took them all day. </b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>Late morning I received a phone call from Dr. Bhoola. He wanted me to know that my scan had come back and I am completely cancer free. They are able to look at everything from the brain to the lower leg--every organ in between. There is absolutely no cancer anywhere and everything looked really good. Dr. Bhoola was very pleased and feels that I have responded extremely well to chemo. He feels that I am going to be fine. We didn't talk for long, he just wanted me to know the results and I am so grateful to him for that. I have my regular appointment next Weds. where we will go over everything.</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><b>I was so excited but it was so hard because of what Dave was dealing with. But we made it through it and today was a very good day!<br /></b></span></span></p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-42631796530239632732022-06-05T10:54:00.001-07:002022-06-05T10:54:05.725-07:00June 5--National Cancer Survivor Day<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Today is National Cancer Survivor Day. I think I can count myself in this group at this point. I finished my last chemo two weeks ago tomorrow--May 23. That concludes all of the treatment that has been recommended for me. I started the treatment journey with the hysterectomy and then had three chemo treatments three weeks apart. I then made the decision to try radiation even though Dr. Bhoola felt I didn't need to do it. That decision on my part contributed to the sickest I have ever been in my life. Radiation was certainly not for me as it caused a lot of inflammation in my intestines that became life threatening. I did make it through 14 radiation treatments and three brachytherapy treatments. Had to take a bit of a rest before finishing the final three chemo treatments.</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>BUT I MADE IT!!! The last three chemos I finally figured out how to stay in front of the bad days so they weren't awful. I am actua lly feeling quite good two weeks out and hoping that my strength will start to come back sooner rather than later.</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>This week will bring the PET Scan on Wednesday that will determine if there is any cancer anywhere. The last one that I got in December, I was completely cancer free. That was only after three chemos. Am I worried? I have to say "yes" but I am also positive and hopeful that the results will be the same. </b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>I have a ticket to fly to Butte on Thursday and will do my appointment with Dr. Bhoola over the phone. </b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>If everything is clear, I will be checked every three months to make sure that it hasn't returned somewhere else. I have thought a lot about this and have decided the only thing I have any control over is taking care of myself and living each day to the fullest and I will be doing that for sure!!!</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>Of course, my sense of humor has gotten me through a lot of this even on the bad days. When I went in for bloodwork prior to my last chemo, I was very worried about having to postpone the chemo because that had happened the treatment before because of low platelets. I waited for my results and all was good. I sent a text to the family to let them know the news. My text read, "I passed!" After I sent it, I realized that I did pass the blood test but that was probably not the best choice of words!!!<br /><br />TO BE CONTINUED!........................................<br /></b></span></span></p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-85185946511617847312022-05-17T20:09:00.001-07:002022-05-17T20:09:29.430-07:00Energy<p style="text-align: justify;"><br /> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXILCIttcuRRZ8REV_3a2ZqaxMueGKHF84rPOvBd_WLT3Zf2d2YgXymFioUkPFdCGeZCf58qVt_PGnaHznUUPEuNRQrZ7Y-x6a7CHXfd--wNHu9_VN66JyuB6-FxHp4IUix386F_vNHgifBMRqkpheBO_SlukTPx2BWZJQAYCjZ8JvSuIr8I6qddPGOA/s720/1CF16F0F-298E-4C3F-BBB7-3327161BF355.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="541" data-original-width="720" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXILCIttcuRRZ8REV_3a2ZqaxMueGKHF84rPOvBd_WLT3Zf2d2YgXymFioUkPFdCGeZCf58qVt_PGnaHznUUPEuNRQrZ7Y-x6a7CHXfd--wNHu9_VN66JyuB6-FxHp4IUix386F_vNHgifBMRqkpheBO_SlukTPx2BWZJQAYCjZ8JvSuIr8I6qddPGOA/s320/1CF16F0F-298E-4C3F-BBB7-3327161BF355.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><b>Every time I write about having the energy to do something and then I do it, it seems that I then have a few days where my energy is "GONE!" To say it has been frustrating is an understatement. I hate being dependent on anyone and I want to be able to do just menial things around the house. Someone posted this in a group that I belong to and it says it all! It came at exactly the time I needed it and truly put the lack of energy into perspective for me. </b><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Yesterday and today were two of those days. I could hardly do anything and was zapped. My one goal was to make the Governing Board meeting tonight, which I did. It took everything I had to get dressed up, put on make up and wear my wig--but I made it.</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>So this saying really meant a lot to me for what it says and that is all I am going to say about it!!!!!!!</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>TO BE CONTINUED...................................! </b><br /></p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-29613470330995128042022-05-15T11:42:00.001-07:002022-05-15T11:42:11.364-07:00Countdown!<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #444444;"><b>The past few days I have been feeling good and have regained a bit of strength. I have been able to do a few things without being totally wiped out. </b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #444444;"><b>Monday I got my nails and toes done and then we went out to dinner with some friends that Dave has made golfing. It never ceases to amaze me how easily he makes friends. We had a nice dinner and I enjoyed his friends. They live here in the winter and Bozeman in the summer.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #444444;"><b>Tuesday I went to our board policy meeting which is held during the day. It was good to be able to think about something other than this journey. I never thought many years ago that I would ever enjoy policy, but I do!</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #444444;"><b>Later that afternoon, I went to a birthday HH for one of my dear friends, Kathy. She turned 60 and it was so nice for me to get out with some of the wonderful teachers I worked with at Gilbert El. I haven't been able to attend anything for such a long time. It was refreshing.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #444444;"><b>Last night I made chicken enchiladas ALL BY MYSELF and cleaned up the kitchen. That is also something that has happened very often the past several months. For some reason, I was really hungry last night which is another thing that hasn't happened much. I definitely over did it!! But one day is okay.<br /></b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #444444;"><b>After dinner, I had a bit of a meltdown but tried to get myself together quickly. I was reflecting as to why this happened and I think it is because I am down to a little over a week for my last treatment. Don't get me wrong, I am very much looking forward to getting the last chemo done. I then have to wait about three weeks and get the PET Scan which will tell whether or not all of the cancer is gone. The one I had in December showed absolutely know cancer and at that time, I had only three chemo treatments. Since then, I have had two more chemo treatments, 14 radiation treatments and then three brachytherapy treatments.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #444444;"><b>My last chemo is scheduled for Monday, May 23. I get bloodwork done next Friday to determine if I can have the chemo as scheduled. I am hoping that everything will be okay.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #444444;"><b>While reflecting, I think it hit me that I am down to the wire and then find out if all of the treatment has worked. I feel positive that it has. However with cancer, one always has to understand that it can return somewhere else. That is why it is so important to "live one day at a time." That is easier said than done.</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #444444;"><b>As with every "pity party" that I have had, I tend to get over them fairly quickly. I can't say that I am not nervous about the next several weeks. I also know that my body is going to take some time to recover from the ordeal that I have been through. I just have to make sure that when I am feeling good that I don't overdo it. That will be hard for me!!</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #444444;"><b>So the countdown begins..........</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #444444;"><b>TO BE CONTINUED.....................!<br /></b></span></p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-46348891514745175932022-05-08T14:33:00.002-07:002022-05-08T14:33:47.914-07:00CHEMO #5<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Had a little setback for my fifth chemo treatment. When I went to get bloodwork done, my platelets were too low. They were at 82,000 and needed to be 130,000. There was nothing I could do about it because it is one of the side effects of chemo. However for two days I tried to eat as good as I could, and that in itself was a real treat! I went back two days later and still couldn't pass the muster as they only went up to 85,000. I was originally scheduled for April 27 but it didn't happen. </b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Thursday night before I had to go in for bloodwork again, I decided to try my old standby--Mary's beans--tostados to see if that would do any good (even though I was told it didn't matter). So Friday morning I went in and GUESS WHAT?? The platelets had gone up to 135,000 in just two days. So I was scheduled for last Monday, May 2nd.</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Previously, all of the treatments had been on a Wednesday and my "tough" days were Saturday and Sunday. So having it on Monday would probably mean that Thursday and Friday would be the tough days. And they were but they have been the easiest ones so far. After five times, I finally figured out how to stay ahead of the discomfort I had previously. I took my pain meds every six hours and drank prune juice every day! So I didn't have any of the pain and other problems as in the past. For the first time I truly experienced "chemo fog." I don't even know how to explain it, but for two days I was totally out of it. I could hardly type, couldn't make a decision, tried to order food for Mother's Day and put in the wrong date--all of the things I normally have no issues with became a huge deal! Needless to say, I would rather be in a fog than in pain!! The fog lasted a little over two days!!<br /></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Today is Mother's Day. I finally got the food order straight from Buca and we will be eating around 5:00. I feel very good other than the lack of energy that has been consistent throughout this whole journey! </b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>When I hear others stories, I consider myself fortunate that I haven't had to deal with what others go through! </b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>The problem with this setback is that it probably means I won't be able to participate in any graduations this year, which makes me sad. It is because if my next chemo is on schedule, my "fog" days are on graduation night. I am scheduled for Mesquite High and the current class graduating were in kindergarten my last year as principal at Gilbert El. I have loved being able to say when I am presenting the graduates that I gave a number of the students their kindergarten diplomas! But there is nothing I can do about it.</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>I am trying to eat well, drink plenty of water and do everything so that I don't get pushed back again. I am scheduled for the sixth and last chemo on Monday, May 23 if my bloodwork is okay. I have a PET Scan scheduled for June 8th to determine how successful the treatment has been. So far, all of my scans have been clear and I continue to be positive that this will be the outcome. I didn't have to reschedule the scan, which is good news as I have an airplane ticket to go to Butte on June 9th. Dave is planning on driving up before with our pugs and then I will fly. My appointment with Dr. Bhoola will be done over the phone or on zoom. </b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>I am thankful for all of the help I have received--it has been hard for me to rely on others for basic needs! As I have said before, I am not a very "patient" patient! I am looking forward to the final treatment and regaining my strength and getting back to "normal!"</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>TO BE CONTINUED.................!!<br /></b></p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-36735724956282786922022-04-30T15:40:00.002-07:002022-04-30T15:40:37.184-07:00Hair AGAIN!<p style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #783f04;"><span style="font-family: PT Sans;">Since the last chemo in December and during the radiation fiasco, my hair had started to grow back. It came in mostly grey but it was even and it looked kind of like a typical man's haircut. What I didn't realize or even think about was losing it again after I resumed chemo a little over three weeks ago.</span></span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #783f04;"><span style="font-family: PT Sans;">Earlier this week, I noticed hair on the bar of soap that I use to wash my head. Then I looked at my pillow and it was covered with hair.</span></span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #783f04;"><span style="font-family: PT Sans;">Yesterday, everything kind of came to a "head" so to speak. After I got back from the bloodwork appointment, I laid down for a little bit and took off my cap. When I got up and looked in the mirror, it was scary!!!</span></span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #783f04;"><span style="font-family: PT Sans;">I had a wonderful dog named Ellie. She was a chow mix with red hair. She was a wonderful dog. The first time I took her to get her chow (lion) haircut, she looked great. However, as her hair started to grow back, it was in tufts here and there some of which would stand out like they had electricity in them. She was the sweetest dog ever, but also wasn't the most beautiful chow! I had to continually get her what body hair she had cut so she looked good. We had a lot of good laughs about her through the years. I still miss her.</span></span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #783f04;"><span style="font-family: PT Sans;">As I was looking in the mirror, all I could think was "I have become Ellie"! That is exactly how my hair looked. I had bald spots all over along with areas with tufts of hair sticking out. This did not happen the first time. </span></span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #783f04;"><span style="font-family: PT Sans;">Dave was golfing so when I came out of the bedroom, I asked Patrick if I reminded him of anyone. Of course, his first words were "Ellie." Although I don't go out without a hat or my wig, I don't always have one on here at home. And the way my hair looked was bad. So we did another "shave" of my head! </span></span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #783f04;"><span style="font-family: PT Sans;">Needless to say, I didn't take any pictures of the before or after even though the after is at least even but bald. It isn't how I want my hair to look, but it is certainly better than it was. And this will hopefully give it the opportunity to grow back evenly.</span></span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #783f04;"><span style="font-family: PT Sans;">All I can say is that the only thing I can do is laugh! Actually, my hair is the least of my worries. If that is the price I have to pay to get completely well, that is okay with me. I am anxious for it to start growing back when I am finished treatment, but more than hair, I want some energy back. That is what is hardest for me!!</span></span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #783f04;"><span style="font-family: PT Sans;">TO BE CONTINUED......................! </span></span></b><br /></p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-85499946592240142102022-04-29T20:38:00.002-07:002022-04-29T20:38:33.838-07:00PASSED THE PLATELET TEST!!<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">I went in today at 11:00 for bloodwork to see how my platelets were and if I could have a chemo treatment as soon as possible. On Monday, they were at 80,000. When I went in Wednesday for chemo and was sent home, they were at 85,000. Needless to say, I was very nervous as I truly want to get this behind me. I had to wait a bit as they were very busy today. The nurses are wonderful and always have a smile, a kind word and an encouraging word no matter how busy they are. I truly appreciate that. They could tell how worried I was and they were extra kind.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">I had to wait about a half and hour to get the results. I sat there quietly and observed their interactions with the other people in the room. They treat everyone with kindness and encouragement. A couple of times, one or the other came over and said they were trying to get my results as soon as possible but that things were very busy. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">I was so relieved when Lisa came over and told me I HAD PASSED and could come in Monday morning. The platelets were up from 85,000 to 132,000. I asked her how that could happen and she said it does often. Once they start to go back up, it can be quickly. I was just so relieved that I didn't care. </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">It isn't that I look forward to chemo, but I truly want to get this behind me so I can start to get my strength back and to start having some fun again!!</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">I will know more Monday as to what the schedule will be for the last treatment and the PET Scan and getting to Butte. If it goes according to this schedule, it will mean I will probably miss graduation, which is very disappointing. However, it is what it is and I can't do anything about it. I just need to concentrate on getting completely well.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">So I will prepare for Monday and I will be very glad to be down to the last chemo treatment in three weeks!!</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: verdana;">TO BE CONTINUED.........................! </span><br /></p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-8579908311765115432022-04-28T09:36:00.002-07:002022-04-28T09:36:20.758-07:00SENT HOME AND I DIDN'T EVEN MISBEHAVE!<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>Yesterday morning I got up early and finished all of my preparations for my chemo treatment. I knew that there was a possibility that I wouldn't be able to get it because of the issue with my platelet count being low. I had done everything I thought I should do in the day and a half but it didn't work. The platelet count went up a bit but not enough.</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>Needless to say, I was really discouraged--probably more so than anything else that has happened. I think it is because I had everything figured out that I would be able to finally do some of the fun things being on the Governing Board that I have missed this year. Depending on what happens and the timeline will depend on whether or not I can participate in graduation activities. If I had the chemo yesterday, all dates would have worked out. Plus I am really anxious to get to Montana. </b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>After my "pity party" and time to think about it, I realized that getting completely well is what is most important. I will be able to do the "fun" things next year if I do everything Dr. Bhoola says to do now.</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>I talked to Tara (NP) when I was leaving and she said that this is just what happens with chemo at times. It is very potent and gets rid of cancer, but it can also do some damage to other parts of your body. She also said that there is really nothing I did wrong or can do to make it better. That was a relief because I was literally forcing myself to eat the two previous days. When I am not hungry, that is really a chore. I ate good yesterday and I think it was because the pressure was off and I could just relax and "enjoy" a meal.<br /></b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>So tomorrow I go for bloodwork and then hopefully will have the chemo treatment on Monday. </b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>Just another glitch in this "c" journey. And my attitude is back to the positive side today!! I am just hoping tomorrow the platelet count will be high enough for treatment.</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><b>TO BE CONTINUED...................!<br /></b></span></span></p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4552211005830706412.post-1019371066357303552022-04-25T21:17:00.003-07:002022-04-25T21:17:35.345-07:00One Day at a Time Certainly Applies!<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="color: #783f04;"><b>One day at a time has certainly been something that I have had to realize the importance of and try to adhere to it during this journey.</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="color: #783f04;"><b>After everything I have dealt with and the setbacks with the radiation, things have been looking so much better. Although my lack of strength and energy is frustrating, I do know that I can't push myself and have to understand I will get it back even if it takes some time.</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="color: #783f04;"><b>This last week I have done more things around the house than I have in quite sometime. Often times when I do some things, I have to sit down for a bit before I can continue. And just the little rest helps me to finish or do another chore.</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="color: #783f04;"><b>I have been feeling good other than this lack of energy. It has been a good feeling to be able to do a few things and to be up most of the day without having to lay down or take a nap.</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="color: #783f04;"><b>Yesterday I wrote about the light at the end of the tunnel. Today I went in to get my blood drawn for chemo on Wednesday. I have never had an issues with my blood levels before chemo. The only time there was any concern was when I was going through the electrolyte issue and my blood work was not good at all. Three weeks ago, it was fine and that was after all that had happened to my body. </b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="color: #783f04;"><b>I went in today and found out that my platelets are lower than they should be. I have had such a hard time eating much of anything but it hasn't been any different than any other time. I have not eaten well but I have done good with drinking a lot of water. Food just hasn't been appealing.</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="color: #783f04;"><b>The nurse told me that they would test me again on Wednesday and then the doctor would decide what to do if they are still low. He will either not give me as much chemo or have to postpone this session. I asked her what I could do and she said to eat a lot and make sure that I ate a lot of protein. </b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="color: #783f04;"><b>Needless to say, I was and am discouraged about this. I came home and looked up what were the best foods for protein. I ate avocados, scrambled an egg and Dave made me a protein shake. This was all after 2:00. I ate all of everything and was completely full. Patrick fixed chicken and a delicious vegetable mix of spinach, broccoli and zucchini. I ate more than I usually do and it was hard to force it down.</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="color: #783f04;"><b>If it gets postponed, that will mean that everything will get moved back however much time is needed. I want to be done for many reasons and I want to be able to get to Montana.</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="color: #783f04;"><b>I have my "menu" all planned for tomorrow. It is hard to eat when I am not hungry but I just took my time and made myself eat every bite. </b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="color: #783f04;"><b>And on another note, my hair had started to grow back because prior to three weeks ago, I hadn't had chemo since December. The last three days it has been falling out again--nothing like before as I don't have that much hair. But it made me realize that it is going to take some time to grow back. </b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="color: #783f04;"><b>I have to be patient and accept that so many of the issues I have had are out of my control. And I just have to make myself eat regularly. And remember that this journey is truly one day at a time!</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="color: #783f04;"><b>Here's to a lot of protein eaten over the next day and a half and positive results Wednesday morning!!</b></span></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="color: #783f04;"><b>TO BE CONTINUED...........................! </b></span></span> <br /></p>Cheelahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03481281156499920676noreply@blogger.com0