Just a quick note to all of you that have been asking for ways to help. Thank you all for contacting me about helping. I was with Linda until about 5:30 last night - between yesterday and this morning, we were able to handle the "pressing" matters that required her immediate attention.
So,for now, there is a great need for Linda and the girls to have some quiet time to just "be" together. As you all know, this has been a LONG journey (that is not yet over) -- there were many family and friends that lovingly walked with Skip and his family through his last days here .... the past several days have been a whirl wind of visitors, calls, and things that must be handled. Now, they can stop for a little bit and just try to get some rest and love each other through. Pastor H encouraged Linda to let the answering machine take calls and get rest whenever she can. I have encouraged her to put the "world" on hold for a few days and just concentrate on those 3 sweet girls.
There are several ways that you can help in the immediate future:
First, meals -- I am still coordinating meals - this would be just a nightly meal for Linda and the girls. (When I left yesterday - the fridge, freezer, and cupboards were well stocked with easy foods they could prepare for breakfast, lunch and snacks.)
Second, house cleaning - this could be done either by actually coming to clean the house or by contributing into a cleaning fund (small groups have pooled together in the past to cover the cost of cleaning service).
Third, Houisng for out of town guests - there will be many people traveling from out of town for the Memorial on Tuesday - so,if you have a guest room or casita available - that would be great.
Finally, many have asked about financial assistance - there is an open account at Downey Savings in La Quinta,CA -- deposits can be made into this account by referencing "Kevin & Linda Osgood". These funds will be used to cover immediate financial needs and medical bills.
I also encourage you to write to Linda and the girls - both jointly and individually - I have found during the struggles of my life -that written encouragemnet is very valuable. There is something powerful about receiving something "nice" in the mail (not a bill or a notice or an advertisement) but just a gentle reminder that someone is thinking of you, praying for you, and loves you. And, I have seen in my own daughter that mail is exciting and brings joy to children even in the midst of great sorrow. It is also lasting - it can be saved and read again and again -- many of the moments, conversations, and happenings of these first days will become a blur or will not be remembered by Linda and the girls -- but, a written word can be kept for a long time to come.
As always, keep them in your prayers - - pray for peace and gentleness and love to surround them.
If you would like to assist in any of the above ways and/or need/want more information, please e-mail me at loans.bydebbi@verizon.net
Blessings to you all,
Debbi (friend of family)
loans.bydebbi@verizon.net
Friday, December 5, 2008
There will come a day...
There is a song by Jeremy Camp that speaks of a "day with no more fear, no more pain, no more tears..." for Skip that day was yesterday. For the rest of us, it has yet to come. Yesterday was a day like no other I have ever spent; and, it had a huge impact on my soul. There were so many things that resonated in my heart and mind yesterday - I will share just a few so that you can grasp the continuing journey of this family that we all love. There were tears, from those who know and love Skip; these, of course, fall naturally as we think of our loss of a loved one. There was laughter as stories of "Skipisms" were shared - some old, some new -- Skip's sense of humor will remain with us as we each remember the funny things he did to brighten our days. There was gratefulness as his loved ones and friends remembered how he had entered, impacted and changed their lives. And, there was peace .... yes peace... as we talked about the "fact" that Skip is with the Lord - rejoicing, celebrating, worshiping.... what a thought... what a promise for each of us to grasp. The peace of knowing this brought comfort to Linda and the girls - and, for that I was very grateful.
My reflection of the day was two fold.... first, I rested in the fact that because of my faith I can be certain that my life as I leave this earth will be beyond anything I can ever imagine..a time when I will once again see all those that I have loved but have gone before me... I have prayed for each person that reads this blog that your heart can rest in the same certainty... second, it was a time of awakening for me regarding my time here on earth --- what can I do differently? how can I love more? how can I be a better wife, mom, daughter, friend.. It was a humbling day as I concluded that there were so many things I could do differently, so many things I could do better, so many small things that could be set aside to focus on the things that are truly "worthy"...
Please continue to pray for Linda and the girls and the rest of Skip's family as the reality of this great change begins to unfold in their lives - there will be many emotions that will come upon them and the faithful prayers of those who love them will be priceless to them in these coming days.
...I pray that peace is with each of you today... that you will take each day here as a gift and that you will find strength to handle the struggles of this life.
(For those of you that are desiring ways to lend a hand - I will be sending out another post and e-mail later today to address that.)
Blessings,
Debbi Garcia
My reflection of the day was two fold.... first, I rested in the fact that because of my faith I can be certain that my life as I leave this earth will be beyond anything I can ever imagine..a time when I will once again see all those that I have loved but have gone before me... I have prayed for each person that reads this blog that your heart can rest in the same certainty... second, it was a time of awakening for me regarding my time here on earth --- what can I do differently? how can I love more? how can I be a better wife, mom, daughter, friend.. It was a humbling day as I concluded that there were so many things I could do differently, so many things I could do better, so many small things that could be set aside to focus on the things that are truly "worthy"...
Please continue to pray for Linda and the girls and the rest of Skip's family as the reality of this great change begins to unfold in their lives - there will be many emotions that will come upon them and the faithful prayers of those who love them will be priceless to them in these coming days.
...I pray that peace is with each of you today... that you will take each day here as a gift and that you will find strength to handle the struggles of this life.
(For those of you that are desiring ways to lend a hand - I will be sending out another post and e-mail later today to address that.)
Blessings,
Debbi Garcia
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Service Time
Hello,
Just a quick post to let you all know that the Memorial Service for Skip will be held on Tuesday, December 9, 2008 at 3:00pm at Southwest Community Church located at 77701 Fred Waring Drive in Indian Wells. The service will be held upstairs. I will post a more detailed post later today or tonight.
In Christ,
Debbi
Just a quick post to let you all know that the Memorial Service for Skip will be held on Tuesday, December 9, 2008 at 3:00pm at Southwest Community Church located at 77701 Fred Waring Drive in Indian Wells. The service will be held upstairs. I will post a more detailed post later today or tonight.
In Christ,
Debbi
Skip is Home
I just spoke with Linda --- and, she simply said "He is Home." It is so hard to write this post ---I know without a doubt that Skip loved the Lord and is with him as I write this; yet, my heart is sad for the loss that those of us who loved him will feel. He stepped into eternity this morning - he was surrounded by friends and family at the time. Linda was at peace as I spoke with her - and, I am comforted by the faith of this family - what a gift to KNOW where Skip is and to have confidence in the fact that he is in a place "beyond anything we can imagine". Please pray for peace and comfort over his family. Now more than ever, they will need our help, support, love and prayers as they continue on their journey...
In Christ,
Debbi (friend of the family)
In Christ,
Debbi (friend of the family)
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Precious Moments
I spoke with Linda at length last night. Skip has "turned a corner" according to the doctors. They feel he is in the midst of his final days here with us. Linda asked for you all to please keep their family in your prayers -- asking for special covering over the girls. They are taking "precious moments of communication" from Skip as they get them and leaning on each other as they walk these steps in love. (Skip's sister and Dad are here with them now.)
As a friend/family (as most of you are) it is so hard to know what to say or do in times such as this... so, I encourage you first and foremost to pray to our Lord who can move mountains, part the sea, and heal our hurts -- cry out to Him on their behalf -- the gift of our joint intercession is so valuable to them.
Trusting in Him,
Debbi
loans.bydebbi@verizon.net
As a friend/family (as most of you are) it is so hard to know what to say or do in times such as this... so, I encourage you first and foremost to pray to our Lord who can move mountains, part the sea, and heal our hurts -- cry out to Him on their behalf -- the gift of our joint intercession is so valuable to them.
Trusting in Him,
Debbi
loans.bydebbi@verizon.net
Monday, November 17, 2008
The boys...
It was an early Christmas at the Osgoods on Sunday, November 9th. Led by Coach Janeen Bahr and Team Mom Nancy Walker, the Palm Desert Boys Water Polo teams arrived at the Osgood home in LaQuinta and proceeded to decorate the outside of the house with lights, wreaths and ornaments, while another group decorated the inside with ornaments and ribbon, another group decorated the christmas tree, while still another group wrapped christmas gifts inside the garage. It was like watching a scene from a Christmas movie. All the while Skip was watching from his bed and enjoying the Christmas Spirit that was abuzz right there in his family room.He greeted each person who went by with an outstretched arm and a big thank you in between catnaps. Linda was overjoyed and a little overwhelmed, having 25 teenage boys in her home at one time is a lot to take in. She just smiled and thanked us with a great big hug each time she saw us. Bronwyn was so in her element, teaching the "big boys" a song about a unicorn. That was priceless. Hannah & Kailey were both so helpful and fun! Another team members family brought a catered dinner and dessert that was out of this world. I think I would have skpped dinner for the gourmet desserts, there were so many to choose from. Yum! Lots of stories to tell, like 4 of the boys who went shopping the night before for a "Glamor Barbie" and having to call their coach and ask what a "Glamor Barbie" was and where do we find it in the store? Lots of memories made for all that were there and hopefully much Joy for the Osgood family to soak in for their special time with Skip. As the sun set the lights came on outside and inside,and the house just sparkled...as did the eyes of all who were there. some tears were shed and prayers spoken and thanks given,as for the team, they will never forget the day that Christmas came early for the Osgood Family.
Linda's take on the day ...
Oh my. How do I even begin to describe the incredible events of yesterday. Believe me, I wanted to take names and numbers (for future "potential" reference, if you know what I mean, coming from a mother of three girls :-)) of these sweet boys who so lovingly descended upon our house and wrapped, stapled, and decorated with the utomost attention to detail and then once they were finished, joined together, arm in are for group prayer!!! Our house could easily compete with Minerva street! As for the inside, baubles and bows are everywhere and the beautiful tree is complete with loads of presents that were purchased and wrapped by the boys themselves. You should have seen little Bronwyn, dressed in a leotard and dance skirt, outside in our cul de sac and later in the partk, smack in the middle of her "adopted brothers" (about 25 of them!) as a football sailed over her head and the guys dodged around her to catch it, careful not to mow her down in the process. Then there was the feast - provided by the Westin - prime rib (with au jus, horse radish and onion gravy), brussel's sprouts (I love them, weird, huh?), pasta and shrimp salad, Waldorf salad, green beans, this other veggie (I forgot the name but it was to die for), mashed potatos, rolls and bread all in a gorgeous presentation. Then to top it off, the pasterie chef made a cheescake, apple and pumpkin pie decorated to the 9's and another sweet lady handed me a fresh baked, still warm apple pie. I called Nancy Walker inviting them back to eat once I realized how much there was. Fortunately, the Shok's were able to join us along with the full house we already had. What a blessing beyond your wildest imagination!
In these last few weeks, I have been constantly reminded of Luke 2:19 where the Shepherds visited Jesus and it says, "But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart." My heart is overflowing! I'm so unworthy and still he loves me - how truly great He is!
Linda's take on the day ...
Oh my. How do I even begin to describe the incredible events of yesterday. Believe me, I wanted to take names and numbers (for future "potential" reference, if you know what I mean, coming from a mother of three girls :-)) of these sweet boys who so lovingly descended upon our house and wrapped, stapled, and decorated with the utomost attention to detail and then once they were finished, joined together, arm in are for group prayer!!! Our house could easily compete with Minerva street! As for the inside, baubles and bows are everywhere and the beautiful tree is complete with loads of presents that were purchased and wrapped by the boys themselves. You should have seen little Bronwyn, dressed in a leotard and dance skirt, outside in our cul de sac and later in the partk, smack in the middle of her "adopted brothers" (about 25 of them!) as a football sailed over her head and the guys dodged around her to catch it, careful not to mow her down in the process. Then there was the feast - provided by the Westin - prime rib (with au jus, horse radish and onion gravy), brussel's sprouts (I love them, weird, huh?), pasta and shrimp salad, Waldorf salad, green beans, this other veggie (I forgot the name but it was to die for), mashed potatos, rolls and bread all in a gorgeous presentation. Then to top it off, the pasterie chef made a cheescake, apple and pumpkin pie decorated to the 9's and another sweet lady handed me a fresh baked, still warm apple pie. I called Nancy Walker inviting them back to eat once I realized how much there was. Fortunately, the Shok's were able to join us along with the full house we already had. What a blessing beyond your wildest imagination!
In these last few weeks, I have been constantly reminded of Luke 2:19 where the Shepherds visited Jesus and it says, "But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart." My heart is overflowing! I'm so unworthy and still he loves me - how truly great He is!
Thursday, November 6, 2008
A Prayer for Peace
Hello to you all --
Well, things have not changed much over the past few days -- and, Skip is feeling pretty good today. He is alert and happy according to Sherry (his sister). They are enjoying moments of fun together.
Linda's prayer requests for today are ...
Can you please put out a huge thank you for me for the incredible outpouring of love. We are also in need of prayer for patience, resting in the peace that we are within God's timing and that His timing is perfect. I pray that we may look at each day as an opportunity for God to work through us and that we surrender to His leading, standing on His encouragement and promises of Joshua 1:9, "Be strong and courageous. do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." (Thank you for the reminder, Stokes' family!)
Please pray for Linda as she is juggling working, the kids, and trying to spend as much time Skip as possible.... she is exhausted - especially mentally -- please pray for peace of mind for her.
Blessings,
Debbi (friend of family)
Well, things have not changed much over the past few days -- and, Skip is feeling pretty good today. He is alert and happy according to Sherry (his sister). They are enjoying moments of fun together.
Linda's prayer requests for today are ...
Can you please put out a huge thank you for me for the incredible outpouring of love. We are also in need of prayer for patience, resting in the peace that we are within God's timing and that His timing is perfect. I pray that we may look at each day as an opportunity for God to work through us and that we surrender to His leading, standing on His encouragement and promises of Joshua 1:9, "Be strong and courageous. do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." (Thank you for the reminder, Stokes' family!)
Please pray for Linda as she is juggling working, the kids, and trying to spend as much time Skip as possible.... she is exhausted - especially mentally -- please pray for peace of mind for her.
Blessings,
Debbi (friend of family)
Thursday, October 30, 2008
"It's a good day...."
Well, I just got off the phone with Skip's mom -- and, she said Skip is having a GREAT day!! Quote of the day from Skip, " It's a great day when you can put your feet on the floor, have a cup of coffee, and poop!" (I was told I could quote that.)
Skip's spirits are high today -- and, sounds like the house is doing well --- they were talking about putting him in the wheelchair and getting him outside for some fresh air today -- so, that was also good and exciting to all!
Skip's Aunt and Uncle came to visit yesterday - and, they will be leaving today.
Please keep praying and lifting this family before the Throne of Grace as our God can do miracles!!
Blessings,
Debbi Garcia
Skip's spirits are high today -- and, sounds like the house is doing well --- they were talking about putting him in the wheelchair and getting him outside for some fresh air today -- so, that was also good and exciting to all!
Skip's Aunt and Uncle came to visit yesterday - and, they will be leaving today.
Please keep praying and lifting this family before the Throne of Grace as our God can do miracles!!
Blessings,
Debbi Garcia
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Family & Friends
I spoke with Linda and Sherry (Skip's sister) today...
...things are changing pretty quickly for Skip and the family. He is, for the most part, staying in bed now. And, he is sleeping a lot. Sherry said that his back is very itchy (and her arm is getting tired from itching it - she has such a kind spirit and is keeping her sense of humor through this very different time.) Skip is speaking very softly but still has his sense of humor.
Skip has had lots of visitors over the past several days and more are coming... He has been blessed by all of you that have come to let him know he is special to you. His family is also gathering around -- His Dad, Mom and Step-dad, and Sister are all now here and staying close by. Sherry is staying with them at the house and seems to be the perfect balance of gentleness and strength to help the family right now.
I encourage each of you to continue to use your gifts to reach out to the Osgoods - it has truly been an amazing journey for me to walk with you all as you reach out in many different ways -- I was speaking with Linda about it today and we both ended up in tears as we went over the ways that God is covering them with his love through ...family and friends... and all of the unique gifts and offerings being presented to them...
...please continue first to pray for peace to be with them and for God to surround each of them with the perfect loving kindness that they need.
Blessings,
Debbi (friend of family)
I can be reached at loans.bydebbi@verizon.net if you would like to provide meals, cleaning or have any questions about specific needs.
...things are changing pretty quickly for Skip and the family. He is, for the most part, staying in bed now. And, he is sleeping a lot. Sherry said that his back is very itchy (and her arm is getting tired from itching it - she has such a kind spirit and is keeping her sense of humor through this very different time.) Skip is speaking very softly but still has his sense of humor.
Skip has had lots of visitors over the past several days and more are coming... He has been blessed by all of you that have come to let him know he is special to you. His family is also gathering around -- His Dad, Mom and Step-dad, and Sister are all now here and staying close by. Sherry is staying with them at the house and seems to be the perfect balance of gentleness and strength to help the family right now.
I encourage each of you to continue to use your gifts to reach out to the Osgoods - it has truly been an amazing journey for me to walk with you all as you reach out in many different ways -- I was speaking with Linda about it today and we both ended up in tears as we went over the ways that God is covering them with his love through ...family and friends... and all of the unique gifts and offerings being presented to them...
...please continue first to pray for peace to be with them and for God to surround each of them with the perfect loving kindness that they need.
Blessings,
Debbi (friend of family)
I can be reached at loans.bydebbi@verizon.net if you would like to provide meals, cleaning or have any questions about specific needs.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
What is needed....
Hello again,
So many of you have called and e-mailed over the past few days - and, I want to encourage each of you to first and foremost keep Skip, Linda, Kailey, Hannah and Bronwyn in your prayers.
I know that many of you have reached out to them - and, I am so grateful for that -- an outpouring of love is vital.
Skip's sister, Sherri, is now staying with them to assist with anything that is needed during the day. And, Skip's Mom and Step-dad will be arriving on Thursday; they will be staying nearby.
Skip and Linda have asked me to share with all of you how grateful they are for the loving support that everyone has shown to them over the days, months, and years of this journey. It is impossible for them to thank each of you individually; but, please know that your love has sustained this family and been an amazing assurance of the Father's Hand upon them. (It has also been amazing for me to watch and witness - what an incredible reminder of the importance of the Body of Christ working as one.)
Please continue to call or write or visit them as you are led -- But, as a gentle reminder, please understand that if your call or e-mail goes unanswered it is not a sign that they are upset or avoiding you ....
but just a simple fact that ...life (as they know it) at this time is very different -- and, there are times (especially for Linda) when they are doing good if they cover the basics like taking a shower and eating dinner...
...that being said, there is no greater gift than love. Each of you is wired in a unique way, each of you was brought into their lives for a different reason. In a situation that is so unique, I rest in the thought that we will each play our part in
helping them to cope, laugh, cry and heal in the days that come.
I will be continuing to coordinate their needs -- if you are interested in helping with meals, cleaning, etc., please e-mail me at loans.bydebbi@verizon.net
Blessings to each of you,
Debbi
...
So many of you have called and e-mailed over the past few days - and, I want to encourage each of you to first and foremost keep Skip, Linda, Kailey, Hannah and Bronwyn in your prayers.
I know that many of you have reached out to them - and, I am so grateful for that -- an outpouring of love is vital.
Skip's sister, Sherri, is now staying with them to assist with anything that is needed during the day. And, Skip's Mom and Step-dad will be arriving on Thursday; they will be staying nearby.
Skip and Linda have asked me to share with all of you how grateful they are for the loving support that everyone has shown to them over the days, months, and years of this journey. It is impossible for them to thank each of you individually; but, please know that your love has sustained this family and been an amazing assurance of the Father's Hand upon them. (It has also been amazing for me to watch and witness - what an incredible reminder of the importance of the Body of Christ working as one.)
Please continue to call or write or visit them as you are led -- But, as a gentle reminder, please understand that if your call or e-mail goes unanswered it is not a sign that they are upset or avoiding you ....
but just a simple fact that ...life (as they know it) at this time is very different -- and, there are times (especially for Linda) when they are doing good if they cover the basics like taking a shower and eating dinner...
...that being said, there is no greater gift than love. Each of you is wired in a unique way, each of you was brought into their lives for a different reason. In a situation that is so unique, I rest in the thought that we will each play our part in
helping them to cope, laugh, cry and heal in the days that come.
I will be continuing to coordinate their needs -- if you are interested in helping with meals, cleaning, etc., please e-mail me at loans.bydebbi@verizon.net
Blessings to each of you,
Debbi
...
A Change...
Hello to you all -- it has been some time since the blog has been updated -- but, The Osgood's have made course change that all of you that know and love them should be aware of....
Please read Linda's thoughts below -- and, please keep them in your prayers.
May God keep each of you in His presence,
Debbi (friend of the family)
Our family situation has taken a drastic change as Skip has decided to forgo any further treatment in the light of this new news that the tumor is growing again and, in fact, migrating to the other hemisphere of his brain. He just does not want to go through the agony of chemo and wants to spend quality time with the girls with the time he has left. In-home hospice is now in place on a part-time basis.
This has been a very surreal experience. Skip is pretty convinced that it will not be long. He has asked that we celebrate Christmas early so the week before Thanksgiving, we will keep the girls home from school and just have a festive time of it.
Please pray for gracious passing, gentle and kind. Pray for wisdom as I try to cover all our bases with compassion. Pray that He will be glorified continually and that through this experience, God may be made real in the hearts of Skip's family. Pray for our girls that the right people may come along side of each of them to comfort them and point them to a Mighty loving God who hurts right along with them. Pray that they will stand firmly on the promises of a loving Heavenly Father who will not forsake them. Pray for Skip that he has peace knowing that he will rest in the arms of Jesus who will welcome him home, celebrating the mighty warrior that Skip has been.
Please read Linda's thoughts below -- and, please keep them in your prayers.
May God keep each of you in His presence,
Debbi (friend of the family)
Our family situation has taken a drastic change as Skip has decided to forgo any further treatment in the light of this new news that the tumor is growing again and, in fact, migrating to the other hemisphere of his brain. He just does not want to go through the agony of chemo and wants to spend quality time with the girls with the time he has left. In-home hospice is now in place on a part-time basis.
This has been a very surreal experience. Skip is pretty convinced that it will not be long. He has asked that we celebrate Christmas early so the week before Thanksgiving, we will keep the girls home from school and just have a festive time of it.
Please pray for gracious passing, gentle and kind. Pray for wisdom as I try to cover all our bases with compassion. Pray that He will be glorified continually and that through this experience, God may be made real in the hearts of Skip's family. Pray for our girls that the right people may come along side of each of them to comfort them and point them to a Mighty loving God who hurts right along with them. Pray that they will stand firmly on the promises of a loving Heavenly Father who will not forsake them. Pray for Skip that he has peace knowing that he will rest in the arms of Jesus who will welcome him home, celebrating the mighty warrior that Skip has been.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Avastin treatment schedule begins . . .
This just in, Skip will begin the Avastin treatment tomorrow. I will go with him to see what is involved and get the schedule for the next few weeks. The next appointment is Friday, July 11 at 1:00 lab work, 1:40 meet with Dr. Leichman and 2:00treatment (1.5 hours). If you can provide a ride for Skip, please contact Deb Garcia at loans.bydebbi@verizon.net (sorry I put the wrong email on the last blog).
With much love,
Linda O
With much love,
Linda O
The Fight Continues . . .
Hi Everybody,
Skip and I spend the last two days visiting oncologists to see if the new chemo was effective. Unfortunately, the answer was no. The tumor has continued to grow. So now it is time for the "Big Guns." He will be starting a regimine of Avastin. This is a biological agent that constricts blood flow to the tumor essentially "starving it." It is administered interveneously for about 1.5 hours every 2 weeks. In the past, this drug has been used in conjunction with Irinotikin (sp?) which is a chemo drug. However, Dr. Nghmeiphu (UCLA oncologist) shared a new study showing very good results using Avastin alone thereby eliminating the negative side effects of chemo (hair loss, fatigue, nausea, etc.). So, we are going to give it a go. Fortunately we can have it administered locally at the Comprehensive Cancer Center at Desert Hospital. I will hopefully have details today as to when it will begin. Skip will need a ride there and back so if you are able to help, please contact Debbi Garcia at loans.bydebbi@aol.com. As with all drugs, it doesn't come without some risks, so please pray for low blood pressure, no bleeding in or water on the brain and low protein levels in his urine.
In the meanwhile, Skip is completely off Dilantin (an anti-seizure med that we found could have negative interaction with Avastin) so timing was perfect. In the transition to the new anti-seizure drug Lamictal he did experience a couple of seizures. They came on very suddenly. In addition, the use of his left arm continues to lessen. Skip has concluded that driving a vehicle is out of the picture for him, obviously a very disappointing reality for him.
On the upside, we have been incredibly blessed this summer with a Wii system - thank you Dee and Barry!!! What fun our family has had creating our characters and challenging each other to all kinds of sports. (Skip and I are a pretty good duo in the boxing arena - watch out Mr. T!!) Just today, in fact, I called home and Skip was riding a dirtbike!!! Now THAT is way cool. Come join us with the family for Pizza and Wii - just give us a call!
As always, thank you for your prayers and for your love and assistance. We appreciate you all. . .
Blessings,
Linda
Skip and I spend the last two days visiting oncologists to see if the new chemo was effective. Unfortunately, the answer was no. The tumor has continued to grow. So now it is time for the "Big Guns." He will be starting a regimine of Avastin. This is a biological agent that constricts blood flow to the tumor essentially "starving it." It is administered interveneously for about 1.5 hours every 2 weeks. In the past, this drug has been used in conjunction with Irinotikin (sp?) which is a chemo drug. However, Dr. Nghmeiphu (UCLA oncologist) shared a new study showing very good results using Avastin alone thereby eliminating the negative side effects of chemo (hair loss, fatigue, nausea, etc.). So, we are going to give it a go. Fortunately we can have it administered locally at the Comprehensive Cancer Center at Desert Hospital. I will hopefully have details today as to when it will begin. Skip will need a ride there and back so if you are able to help, please contact Debbi Garcia at loans.bydebbi@aol.com. As with all drugs, it doesn't come without some risks, so please pray for low blood pressure, no bleeding in or water on the brain and low protein levels in his urine.
In the meanwhile, Skip is completely off Dilantin (an anti-seizure med that we found could have negative interaction with Avastin) so timing was perfect. In the transition to the new anti-seizure drug Lamictal he did experience a couple of seizures. They came on very suddenly. In addition, the use of his left arm continues to lessen. Skip has concluded that driving a vehicle is out of the picture for him, obviously a very disappointing reality for him.
On the upside, we have been incredibly blessed this summer with a Wii system - thank you Dee and Barry!!! What fun our family has had creating our characters and challenging each other to all kinds of sports. (Skip and I are a pretty good duo in the boxing arena - watch out Mr. T!!) Just today, in fact, I called home and Skip was riding a dirtbike!!! Now THAT is way cool. Come join us with the family for Pizza and Wii - just give us a call!
As always, thank you for your prayers and for your love and assistance. We appreciate you all. . .
Blessings,
Linda
Thursday, May 15, 2008
A change in tactics
Hi Everybody
On Friday, we got the results of Kevin's(Skip) most recent MRI. Unfortunately, the spot (now considered a tumor) is growing. The doctor concluded that the Temodar (chemotherapy drug) is not working (after 7 rounds). Because of the instability of the tumor, in addition to its unresponse to the Temodar, it knocked Kevin out of qualification for the vaccine trial. This was a great blow. However, after visiting with Dr. Leichman (our local oncologist) and Dr. Ngmiemphu (our oncologist at UCLA), we have established a new game plan for fighting this beast.
First, we are wheening Kevin off one anti-seizure drug; dilantin. In order to qualify for future vaccine trials, he must be off this drug as it negatively reacts with many cancer fighting therapies. They are accomplishing this wheening by putting him on a third anti-seizure drug (lamatil) while decreasing the dilantin. This process should take about 5 weeks before the dilantin is finished. The risk, of course is that Kevin may have a seizure. Also, there is a risk of serious rash with this new drug. Needless to say, we will be keeping an eye on both situations.
Second, Kevin will begin a new chemo (CCNU). It is administered in pill form, dosage is for one day and then he is off for 6 weeks. Sounded pretty user friendly to us. The only new side effect is lowering of his white blood count which would make him suseptible to infection, illness, etc. The Ambrotose will play a key role here as we continue to nourish his cells. He will begin this chemo on Monday, May 19. He will continue to take Zophran as his anti-nausea med. but he should need it for only 4 days.
A second chemo alternative was suggested by both doctors. It involves two drugs (Evastin and Irinotikin), intervenously administered every 2 weeks. However, Dr. Ngheimphu said that although this is a very effective method of fighting the tumor, that she does not believe it is needed at this point. In addition, we discovered that the dilantin decreases its effectiveness, so therefore, this is another incentive to wheen off the dilantin if we should find it necessary to take this option in the future.
All in all we are very please with the new plan. Thank you once again for supporting us in prayer and in service. We love you so and will continue to press on in our fight with faith in our Big God who is capable of great miracles.
We'll keep you posted.
love,
Kevin (Skip) and Linda
On Friday, we got the results of Kevin's(Skip) most recent MRI. Unfortunately, the spot (now considered a tumor) is growing. The doctor concluded that the Temodar (chemotherapy drug) is not working (after 7 rounds). Because of the instability of the tumor, in addition to its unresponse to the Temodar, it knocked Kevin out of qualification for the vaccine trial. This was a great blow. However, after visiting with Dr. Leichman (our local oncologist) and Dr. Ngmiemphu (our oncologist at UCLA), we have established a new game plan for fighting this beast.
First, we are wheening Kevin off one anti-seizure drug; dilantin. In order to qualify for future vaccine trials, he must be off this drug as it negatively reacts with many cancer fighting therapies. They are accomplishing this wheening by putting him on a third anti-seizure drug (lamatil) while decreasing the dilantin. This process should take about 5 weeks before the dilantin is finished. The risk, of course is that Kevin may have a seizure. Also, there is a risk of serious rash with this new drug. Needless to say, we will be keeping an eye on both situations.
Second, Kevin will begin a new chemo (CCNU). It is administered in pill form, dosage is for one day and then he is off for 6 weeks. Sounded pretty user friendly to us. The only new side effect is lowering of his white blood count which would make him suseptible to infection, illness, etc. The Ambrotose will play a key role here as we continue to nourish his cells. He will begin this chemo on Monday, May 19. He will continue to take Zophran as his anti-nausea med. but he should need it for only 4 days.
A second chemo alternative was suggested by both doctors. It involves two drugs (Evastin and Irinotikin), intervenously administered every 2 weeks. However, Dr. Ngheimphu said that although this is a very effective method of fighting the tumor, that she does not believe it is needed at this point. In addition, we discovered that the dilantin decreases its effectiveness, so therefore, this is another incentive to wheen off the dilantin if we should find it necessary to take this option in the future.
All in all we are very please with the new plan. Thank you once again for supporting us in prayer and in service. We love you so and will continue to press on in our fight with faith in our Big God who is capable of great miracles.
We'll keep you posted.
love,
Kevin (Skip) and Linda
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
round 7 of chemo is in the books
Well, round 7 has come and gone, pretty much sticking to the same script: take the chemo pills On Monday night before bed on an empty stomach, (continue until Friday), sick from Wednesday through Monday. The 'sick' part feels like being on a bumpy, week-long plane ride while hungover. 5 days of pills... 23 days of recovery,tests, physical therapy, occupational therapy(trying to get my left arm and hand to work again), doctors appts; and as much 'normal' life as I can pack into this period. The next big thing for us our May 14 appt at UCLA to get the scoop on the vaccine program.... More to come on that, later
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Big news! We're in...
We have recently been accepted into UCLA's vaccine program. It's been a 4-plus year journey to get to this point and could not have done it without the help of so many people. God has shown us some amazing things over the past 5 years. At many points, I wondered, "Why are we going through this?" and begged for better understanding of the situation. Every time I started thinking "What's the use?" Something would happen that would make things clearer, Mind you, Many of the things that happened were not pleasant,warm and fuzzy, but downright painful and confusing but there was an underlying purpose that provided direction: Faith. It has been my lifeboat.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Excuse me, but I don't speak whinese
We have been working with our youngest about asking for things in a 'big girl' voice. somehow, she has developed a habit of whining for nearly everything. It gets so irritating. I have realized that it's not just her. I can hear the same whining from adults in the post office, the grocery store, the news; and because we're in an election year, candidates for public office and their 'handlers'. It's ridiculous. I remember when people would mention the weather in idle conversation, now whining has replaced 'do you think it's going to rain? '. If you're disinclined to agree with me, just listen for one entire day. You'll be amazed at how whining has crowded out genuine conversation. It's a new national past time. So I'm proposing to all the whiners out there the same advice we are giving our 5 yr old: use a grown-up voice and you'll get better results. Now, I'm signing-off because I feel whine coming on and I don't want to be a hypocrite. -Skip
Friday, April 4, 2008
We want more of your blood...
Well,yesterday, I had more blood drawn to see if I'm still in the running for the vaccine study @UCLA; the first time around, they did the wrong test, so I hope this time things will come together.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
It's a battleground out there...
And the war against cancer goes on... post last round of chemo. I'm feeling pretty good, I believe I owe it to the small army of friends& family that have rallied to make our lives ( Osgood family) much easier many thanks to those of you that have joined the fight with us. Like the new blog? I changed it thanks to a very uncool prankster on the last one. Look, I just want to use this thing to get information out to people who care about us, so go find some other place to keep you busy-'nuff said.
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