March 8, 2010
Consider getting Registered In The National Marrow Donor Program
The only way that most Leukemia patients can survive is by having a bone marrow transplant. Having your tissue type listed in the National Marrow Donor Program Database is something everyone should do. You could save a life by a simple blood or bone marrow donation. To have your blood typed to be added to this database please make arrangements to visit a blood bank in your area.
I recently signed up myself, it didn't cost me anything and it only took about 5 minutes of my time! It does mention a fee on their site but after I completed the requested
information the fee was waived at the end. I received an envelop in a few days, I simply had to swab the inside of my cheek and then mailed in the envelope, that's it!!! VERY SIMPLE!! Lisa and I know of two people who are in desperate need of a
transplant with no donor match in the registry, their life depends on it. PLEASE
consider signing up.
Lisa is doing good, she has an appointment this week with Dr. Gerson. Lisa will find out when she gets her port out and also get her next bone marrow biopsy scheduled.
Please remember to shop on Lisa's shopping page the next time you need a gift for yourself of someone else. I just listed over 40 additional items. I have about 15 more to list. We appreciate the support of our first shoppers, we raised $392 so far!! This It's hard to believe that Lisa is approaching her 1 year anniversary of being diagnosed with Leukemia. February 25th... the day her world changed. So much has happened in a year. We are extremely grateful that Lisa is doing well right now. Although her battle with cancer continues, and the road ahead is long, Lisa has great faith and is seriously the most positive person I know. On behalf of Lisa, her family, father, step mom, siblings and my family, we could never possibly express our gratitude to all those who have helped her and her family in the last year. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I made a promise to Lisa a year ago that I would have her on a prayer chain from the West Coast to the East Coast and everywhere in between. Well, I kept my promise, I have hundreds of emails from all over the United States and as far away as Estonia - people praying for Lisa. Thank you! Please continue to pray for Lisa. I'd like to share something Michael Caldwell (a friend of Lisa's) posted on his facebook page. Here it is: ...friends on facebook. She needs us now more than ever, don't let her down. God bless. National Marrow Donor Program National Marrow Donor Program Lisa said she is doing well other than fatigue, she said she sleeps
will be used towards an upcoming bill for Lisa's chemo prescriptions. Lisa is currently taking 28 pills a day!!! Thank you for your support!
~Angie
March 6, 2010
I'd like to thank GoDaddy.com who is the host of Lisa's website for their generous support. I had 231 items that I tried to publish to Lisa's shopping page but quickly
found out that I could only publish 20 items or needed to upgrade my shopping cart
to handle the large number of items. The upgrade was nearly $600! I wanted to cry
because I had spent soooooo much getting this together for Lisa. I was trying
to raise money, not spend money. Anyway, godaddy only charged me $68.00 for the upgrade after I explained the purpose of this website. GoDaddy rocks!!! Thank you!!
Lisa is doing good, she has an appointment next week with Dr. Gerson. Lisa will
find out when/if they are going to remove the port in her chest. She's not sure if
they will keep it in for her next IV chemo or not.
~Angie
February 23, 2010
This week marks the one year anniversary of Lisa's life-altering diagnosis of
acute lymphocytic leukemia. I chose this week in particular to unveil a project
I have been working on as a reminder that although one year of treatment has
been completed, there are two ardous years of chemotherapy to go, Lisa is only
one-third of the way into her journey.
Please visit the 2010 events page to learn about this long-awaited project, one
that people from all 50 states participated in! You can help Lisa by sharing the
link located on the 2010 events page. Please post it to your facebook page,
twitter page and/or email it to your friends and family.
Thank you for the continued prayers and tremendous support.
~Angie
February 15, 2010
"Here is the website http://www.grizbabesteam.com/. Lisa week means taking nothing for granted, love harder, live harder, laugh more, smile more, take stock in what you have not what you desire, if you have your health the glass is not half full,isa I can tell you that she is an angel, I wonderful person and mother of two. If you can't help an angel, well I just feel sorry for yah. Now go to that website and help out. God bless."
In addition to my ongoing efforts to help Lisa, I also hope to raise awareness
about blood cancer.
I thought today was a great day for me to sign up to be the match, so I did. A great
way to kick start Lisa's week!
It's free to sign up if anyone else is interested, please visit:
~Angie
Happy Valentine's Day! I saw Lisa on skype today, she looks good and is
feeling good :-). I'll be posting the 2010 events soon - please check back in
the next week.
~Angie
February 6,2010
Lisa is blogging ~ Click the Lisa's blog link on the right to get her latest update.
January 30, 2010
I received a call last night from a friend (shelly) to hurry up and turn on the
channel 4 news here in Los Angeles. Dr. Hensel was talking with a recent
ALL transplant patient. This women whose name is Alta, met with 11 people
who saved her life! Her only chance of survival was to have a stem cell
transplant. When they checked the national registry, there was one match, the
match was herself!! Alta had signed up in the past to be a donor. So, she actually
had no match! Alta was waiting and hoping for a match to come in, meanwhile
she had about 90 transfusions. A match out the country came in, that person
saved her life... along with the many people who donated blood.
I called Lisa right away and shared the story. Alta was diagnosed with ALL
like Lisa. My friend Shelly connected Lisa with Alta, so she would have
someone to talk to. They've exchanged letters back and forth. Alta is a true
inspiration! You'll find a letter from Alta in the letters to Lisa page.
Alta said of her donors, "They understand what humanity is about - doing
what you can do to help somebody."
Go out and donate blood!! Sign up to be a match... you could save a life,
you may be somone's only hope....
For information on becoming a donor
Click here:
Write up in LA times paper about Alta:
UCLA leukemia patient thanks blood donors - latimes.com
pretty good but wakes up and feels like she hasn't slept all night. Lisa
missed taking her chemo pills a couple of days last week when she was
sick, so she is adjusting to the side effects again, but doing good.
~Angie
January 27, 2010
Lisa is doing well today, visit her blog link. Thank you to all the drivers
who organized an afternoon luncheon with Lisa, it's so awesome that you all
were able to get together to do something fun. It sure beats driving her to a
chemo appointment! You are an amazing group of women!! Thank you!
Check out the picture from the luncheon - Lisa you look great!!!!!!!
Click on galleries 2010 to see picture.
http://photos.grizbabesteam.com/GalleryThumbnails.aspx?gallery=303418
Angie
January 23, 2010
Lisa is sick with the flu, she is pretty miserable right now.
She missed her sons birthday party today :-(. Feel better Lisa!
~Angie
January 21, 2010
I talked to Lisa today and other than fatigue she was doing well! We're using
skype now so I get to see her more. I've been super busy organizing my fundraising
efforts on Lisa's behalf for 2010. I'm working 24-7 on a project that I have literally
had hundreds of emails back forth to organize this effort. I'll be posting all the
information in about 2 weeks. It's been both exhausting and rewarding. I'm
going to have a lot to say in a few weeks once I have everything set up.
I'd like to thank Michele Lilley from keys to my castle who has donated
dozens of keys to help raise money for Lisa's Leukemia fund. Thank you!!
I'd also like to thank those of you who donated blood last month and signed
up to be a bone marrow donor, you could be the one to save a life!
Please continue to keep Lisa in your prayers. Pray for remission!!
~Angie
January 16, 2010
Lisa is blogging!! Check out the Lisa's blog link on the right. I've had several people
ask me many questions the past few weeks, some of which I didn't have the answer
to. Between all the emails and phone calls I get each week regarding Lisa, I
can't rember who asked what, so I'll be answering the questions here: Lisa's blood
type is O+. No, meals are not being dropped off at the house anymore, we have
eliminated the food tidings meal sign up at this time. For those who expressed
wanting to help still, a gift card for breakfast or lunch in her area would be great,
it will get her out of the house! No, she is not taking herbs at this point, she is
strictly following Dr. Gerson's orders. Yes, she still has a port in her chest. I
hope this helps!
I've added a new pic on the family pictures page of Lisa skating with
her kids - you will have to click the link to see it, once you click the link you can
click the galleries link to view all the pictures for 2009. Link is below, look for the
2010 gallery to see the latest picture.
http://photos.grizbabesteam.com/GalleryThumbnails.aspx?gallery=303418
~Angie
January 15, 2010
I spoke to Lisa today, she is feeling pretty good other than some fatigue and the occasional "icky" stomach feeling. Lisa said her hair is growing in like a patchwork
puzzle... not exactly what she was hoping for, but at least she can see some hair :-).
Lisa said she would email me some new pics, I hope to get them posted this weekend.
January 11, 2010
Lisa got IV chemo last week and is now taking oral chemo everyday. Lisa
said she had to buy a label maker so she could label all her drugs to help
keep her organized. I guess she is taking a ton of pills several times a day.
Lisa is feeling pretty good, tired sometimes but has been getting out of the house
which is great!!!!! Her hair is starting to grow, hopefully it will
continue to grow. She still has the port in chest, they will keep it there for
now, it's used to give her IV chemo.
Thanks for the continued support! Lisa loves all the guestbook comments! Keep
the prayers coming... the road ahead is still long. Pray for her to stay in remission!
December 31, 2009
Happy New Year!!!!
Thank you hardly does justice to express our sincere gratitude for each
and every one of you for your tremendous support in 2009. Thank you!
Keeping faith strong... never lose hope and God bless us all in 2010!!!!
December 28,2009
Lisa is sick with a cold and will not start her chemo today. Looks like
she will start chemo sometime next week when she is feeling better.
December 24, 2009
Our hearts are filled with gratitude. Thank you to each and every one of you for
your love, prayers and support this past year.
With God, all things are possible!!!!!!!!!!
Merry Christmas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The Griewisch & Klimko families
December 17,2009
A note from Lisa:
I am feeling very well! My doctor's visit went well too! He said I am doing very
good and to keep it up, whatever I am doing! I start my maintenece phase the
28th of December. Day one will be three different chemo's then we work down
to one chemo a day and another one once per week. Then the third chemo we
do every three months as it is IV chemo. I will be on steroids every three months
as it helps the chemo "helper." As I am told it enhances the ability of the chemo
to do it's job. So YEAH!! We are finally in the maintenance phase! In remission!!
I pray I stay there too! It was a happy day for Dr. Gerson, Becky (his nurse) and
Mark and I. Positive attitude will get you far! Thank you everyone for being so
wonderful this past year! I pray that each and everyone of you have a wonderful
Christmas and a Happy New Year too! God Bless you and your families.
Love and hugs to you ~ Lisa
December 4,2009
Today Lisa completed her intesification phase of treatment, we are so thankful
for this day!!! The road ahead is still very long, but we have been waiting for this day!
Not knowing what tomorrow brings, we just take things one day at a time. We have
hope and continue to pray that Lisa stays in remission!!
When Lisa was first diagnosed she had about 100 billion Leukemia cells in her
body. Lisa still has about 100 million Leukemia cells in her body - these also
must be destroyed. Over the next 2 years she will remain in treatment getting
chemotheraphy to help destroy the remaining cancer cells.
Lisa is in remission (remission is not necessarily a cure) and we PRAY that she remains in remission.
My eyes filled with tears many times today knowing that this part of treatment is behind her, it also brought me back to day one - the day she was diagnosed. I
never thought in a million years I would be setting up a cancer website for her.
It's been a very difficult time for Lisa, my brother and their family. We are so
greatful for the tremendous support from friends, family and new friends, thank you
for your support. We simply can't thank you enough!!!!
Lisa you're amazing!!!! You're fighting like a champ... We are all so proud
of you!!! We love You!!!!!!!!! Rest up, get strong and keep fighting!!!!!!!!
~Angie
November 25,2009
Lisa was diagnosed with acute Lymphocytic Leukemia 9 months ago today, still hard to believe. We are all so thankful for each and everyone of you who helped over the past 9 months. Happy Thanksgiving!! We certainly know what we are thankful for!!!! ~Angie
A NOTE FROM LISA:
Hello Everyone! Happy Thangsgiving! Jack is better and back to school. His teacher and friends
were very happy to see him! We still have this week to get through to see if any of us will get H1N1,
so we are still praying for that to pass. I will start my chemo again on the 30th and go everyday for
the week. I will be getting two very strong chemo's and very heavy steroids again. But, it will be
my last strong IV chemo for four months! Right before Christmas I will start the maintenance phase
of my protocol, which is daily chemo pills, weekly chemo pills and IV chemo every three months. I
am praying that my body is not "sensitive" to the chemo pills like it was before and of course that I stay in REMISSION!!!!!
God bless-
Lisa~
November 16, 2009 Hello everyone! I just got back from my Dr's appointment and he had plenty to say. First, I have been having problems with my hip since this summer when I had the "necrosis of the bone marrow" and there is a possibility that the steroids at that time might have damaged the vessels in my ball and socket joint. It is something that we just have to watch and if it gets worse than I am looking at a hip replacement. But we'll cross that bridge when we come to it! Second, this phase of chemo, Consolidation Phase 3, is going to be very tough on me. He said and I quote "by week three you are going to be whittled down and you are not going to feel like doing anything. It is really going to take you out and it will last for more than few weeks." Well, at least I know what I am in for. I don't look forward to it as my daughter's birthday is right in the middle of what is going to be my heavy down time. I want to thank everyone again that has helped us in so many different ways! The people who volunteer to drive, the people who bring us dinner, the people who donate and the people that pray! I also wanted to say a special thank you to my sister in law Angie who is having a garage sale on the 26th to raise funds for our family. Thank you Ang! And to Meridy Seiloff who is running a marathon on the 26th to raise funds for our family as well. Thank you Meridy! I'll be thinking about you both on Saturday! God Bless and keep you safe! God Bless and Hugs, Lisa~
Ughhhhhhhh!!! Jack is sick & tested positive for influenza A. The
family is all taking Tamiflu now. Lisa's counts are down...
PLEASE pray that she stays healthy! I'll keep you updated.
We of course hope Jack feels better soon too - love you Jack!!!
November 11, 2009
Lisa completed her consolidation phase III Nov. 9th.... YIPEE!!!!!
Consolidation phase IV will be next - no start date yet. Lisa's counts
are down and she will need to get them back up before she gets the
next round of chemo. We hope it's after the Holidays... we'll see.
Lisa is stuck in the house until her counts go up. Lisa keeps saying
she is bored and can't stand the fact that she can't go out and is
going stir crazy. So, I thought I would try and figure out something
for her to do. Lisa is really enjoying cooking - when she can.
I thought it might be fun if people could email in some great (easy)
recipes for her to make while she is stuck inside. Mark will have
to do the grocery shopping (sorry Mark). Please email recipes to
her at: grizbabesteam@gmail.com Crock-pot recipes would be great,
she just got one a month or so ago. I think Lisa will really enjoy this
and occupy her time.
Please continue to pray and thank you for your continued support.
November 4, 2009
Please continue to keep Lisa in your prayers
A note from Lisa:
Hello everyone! Well I have one week to go now to finish this
phase of my treatment. So far I have experienced the "fatigue"
that comes with getting chemo. Naps are my friend! I've also
had some stomach discomfort. I am seeing the light at the end
of the tunnal finally. I know I am YEARS from being done with
chemo, but it seams that just getting through these next two phases
of chemo and starting the "mainenance phase" will set me on my
final desination of being cnacer free!!!! I love that sound!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you to everyone who have helped my by driving, bringing
meals, praying and donating. Every bit of your help and
thoughtfulness helps me heal.
Love & Hugs,
Li Lisa~
October 22, 2009
PLEASE pray that Lisa remains healthy during this
round of chemo. Thank you for your prayers!!!!!!!!!!
A note from Lisa
Hello Everyone. I hope this letter finds you all in good health and
spirits! I am doing fairly well so far. I have been handling the
"red devil" chemo as they call it, as well as can be expected. My
doctor actually wrote in my chart that I was doing "remarkable well"!
That is always good to know even if he says it to me, it's nice to know
he writes it too! I have just been tired and my stomach has been a
little upset - that causes a loss of appetite. But that as always, comes
and goes. As the weeks have gone by, the symptoms have gotten a
little worse with each dose. Next week I start three different chemo's.
That will be the "whittling away" the doctor was speaking of - warned
about. It will probably be the third time I lose my hair this year too!
Just when it starts to actually look like something! This phase of chemo
will end the second week of November and then I will not start the next
phase most likely until after Christmas. Since this phase is so strong, it's
going to take some time to get my counts all back up. I am very
worried about this cold and flu season with the H1N1 outther too. One
hit and I'm in BIG trouble! I figure if I get any illness then it's most
likely going to come from my own kids. So remember to practice what
we preach! Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 secs.
It doesn't hurt to keep hand sanitizer with you where ever you go either.
I know I do. Stay healthy, happy and have a fun and safe Halloween!
Thank you again to all of you who have dropped off a meal, donated to
my Leukemia fund, signed my guestbook, prayed for me and to all the
wonderful women driving me to my chemo appointments. THANK YOU!
I also want to thank Ed & Linda Griewisch and all of those who donated
blood recently... Donating blood can save a life! Thank you!
Hugs,
Lisa~
October 14, 2009
Lisa is doing good, she is tired and feeling the effects of the chemo
but overall doing well. Next week is when they up her chemo dose -
the week they said she will start to feel pretty sick. Hopefully she
will prove them wrong. Please continue to pray for her. It's flu season
and she needs to stay healthy. So for all of you that are around her,
whether it's a friend visiting, dropping off a meal or driving her to a
chemo appointment - PLEASE remember that she can not be around
anyone with a cold/flu. People should also avoid contact with Lisa if
they have another family member sick - there is a 24-48 incubation
period. It's better to give Lisa a call and let her know if yourself
or someone around you has been sick, this way she can make other
arrangements and at the very least wear a mask so she avoids the
risk of catching the flu. Thank you for your continued prayers and
support.
September 29th, 2009
Lisa started chemo again yesterday, it's going to be a long 42 days!
Please keep Lisa in your prayers, this is going to be an intense round
of chemo. By the second/third week, Lisa was told she will be totally
knocked down. SOOOOOO Pray, Pray & PRAY for her! PLEASE!!
I'll I'll update again next week on the 8th or 9th.
Angie
09 September 27, 2009
Meriday's marathon time was 4:58:43, she beat her 5 hour goal :-).
Congrats Meriday!! Thank you to all of the people who donated on
your behalf... you raised $699!! Meridy is very sore today but very
happy. Meridy started cramping a bit after mile 11 and basically
fought them the entire rest of the race. Her husband and a friend met
her at mile 23 - she was definitely hurting by then, they ran/walked her
in from there. We are so proud of you Meridy... you did it!!
The yard sale went well. Like Meridy, I'm sore today too! I feel like
I ran a marathon! I raised $854! The sale started at 8:00 but the
first person showed up at 6:20 - talk about early birds! Thank you
to all my friends, neighbors and strangers who donated items for the
sale. I also want to thank Sephanie Fuller for helping me organize
items and Lilli Mclean (my neighbor) who volunterred to help me
the day of the sale. It was blazing hot out and we were swamped!
We had no furniture or electonics - we sold books, toys, clothing and
knick knacks. A lot of items were 50 cents or a dollar. It was a ton
of work. I think we did great for not having any big items for sale.
The quarters and dollars add up!
I spoke to Lisa today, she sounds good :-). Lisa wanted
me to thank those of you who signed up to drop off meals
for her family during her next round of chemo - her doctor
said she will be very sick so this will be a big help! Lisa
also wanted me to thank the women who signed up to drive
her to chemo appointments, this is also a HUGE help.
As you all know, they have no family in the area. Mark has
to take off work when we can't find someone to drive her. We
hope you all realize what a tremendous help you are and how
much we appreciate your help and support! THANK YOU!
September 25, 2009
Tomorrow is a big Leukemia fundraising day! Please send out
good vibes and prayers for Meridy, running her 1st Marathon...
pounding the pavement for 26 miles! Thank you to the friends and
family of Meridy who have donated to Lisa's Leukemia fund.
I'll be up at the crack of dawn getting ready for the yard sale. I have
a ton of stuff and just hope people show up! I'll post details tomorrow.
September 23rd, 2009
September 21st, 2009
Lisa has an appointment with Dr. Gerson tomorrow. Lisa said that she
has felt pretty good the last couple of days with the exception with some
issues from her triple lumen port in her chest, hopefully it's okay and
won't need to be replaced. I've had several emails lately from people
thinking Lisa is cured because she is in remission. Lisa still has cancer
cells in her body. They say she is in remission because she has less than
a billion cancer cells in her body. Lisa will have another 2-3 months
of intense chemo (intravenous chemo) and then she will take oral chemo
for 2.6 years. During her 2.6 years of oral chemo, she might occasionally
have intravenous chemo. It's a long road, we're just checking the months
of as they go... keeping the faith.
September 15th, 2009
Lisa is feeling pretty good right now, she actually went out yesterday! Lisa
played bunco, she said it was really fun and hopes to go again next month.
I think this is the first time Lisa has been out to do anything fun in almost
7 months! Lisa said she still has some muscle pain and gets worn out very
easy. Chemo starts up again on the 28th, she will have a little over a four
week chemo cycle for the next round.
I posted the pictures of Joel Pepper from the 32 mile race - thanks again
Joel!!! Click the link below to see the pictures.
http://photos.grizbabesteam.com/GalleryThumbnails.aspx?gallery=184915
We would like to thank Meridy Sieloff ,Lisa's neighbor. Meridy is taking
on the challange of running her first Marathon on Sept. 26th, and
has asked her friends and family to sponsor her by donating to Lisa's
leukemia fund. Thank you Meridy, and to all of those who have donated.
I'll post a link closer to the Marathon date so we can check Meridy's
progress during the race.
I also wanted to thank my friends and friends of my friends who have
donated items for the yard sale that I am having on the 26th to raise
money for Lisa. I'm a bit overwhelmed with the mountain of stuff I have :-).
We also want to thank all the drivers who signed up for this past round
of chemo, and the families who have signed up for meal tidings to drop off
dinner for Lisa and her family. What a tremendous help you all have
been!
Angie
September 1st, 2009 *** new note from Lisa below
September is Leukemia awareness month! I'm having a yard sale 26th to raise money for Lisa's Leukemia fund. If anyone else is interested
in having a yard sale in September for Lisa please let me know. Every 10
minutes someone dies from blood cancer. Donate blood or sign up to be
a bone marrow donor and YOU could be the one to save a life!
A NOTE FROM LISA:
Biopsy results are in... I am still in REMISSION!!! Yeah!! My bone marrow
is healing well. I am continuing wit treatment and started chemo again
yesterday. However, now they are unsure as to what caused the necrosis.
It could have been the last round of chemo or a blood clot. Since my
doctor does not like to overlook anything, I am having an echo cardiogram
done of my heart this week to see if my heart threw a blood clot. So, we
are taking this one step at a time. I have become somewhat of a medical
mystery to the doctors. But, it is better to look at every path then to let
one get by and have problems later because someone didn't bother to
run a test. I'll keep you informed as to what is next as we out find out.
Right now, we'll pray that I will continue to heal and that there was no
blood clot to begin with. At lest those will be my prayers for a long while.
Thank you for everything you all do. You know who you are. Your my
angels.
Lo Love,
Lisa~
you that I am still on my chemo break. Though I am on that break due to the chemo induced Necrosis of the Bone. I go for my biopsy on the 26th of this month. The day the kids start school unfortunately. But from there Dr. Gerson will check my marrow to be sure that everything is healthy enough for us to continue the chemo plan. Then we have to finish up Consolidation Phase 1 and get ready for Phase 2. I am still having bone pain and hopefully it will stop someday soon. It has gotten better over the weeks but it is still there. I have every confidence that Dr. Gerson is doing everything he can to pull me through these treatments and keep me in remission. Keep praying that God leads the way!! God Bless all of you, Lisa~ August 14th, 2009
August 31st, 2009
T Joel Pepper finished the 32 mile paddleboard race from Catalina Island
to Manhattan Beach in 6 hours 58 minutes. Awesome job Joel!!!!!
Here is what joel had to say: "Worked through nausea and cramping,
but made it fine. It was HOT out there, flat conditions but had a current
working against us, all good overall, glad to have it in the rear view window."
Thank you to all the people who donated a buck, ten bucks, a buck a mile
and more. We appreciate you rsupport. THANK YOU JOEL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
http://web.me.com/joelpepper/Site/Welcome.html
August 29th, 2009
Lisa had her bone marrow biopsy on Wednesday, things didn't go
that great, it was VERY painful for her. No results yet, looks like
she will get them on Monday. We are hoping that she is still in
remission... please keep her in your prayers. I spoke to Lisa
yesterday and she sounded really good, she said she is feeling much
better. The past month has been really tough for her so it was great
to hear some happiness in her voice. Lisa starts chemo again next
week. I'm still looking for people that are able to drive her to the
appointments. Please email me at grizbabesteam@gmail.com if you
can help.
We would also like to thank all of you who have donated a buck a mile
for the 32 mile paddleboard race that Joel Pepper will be participating
in tomorrow. We appreciate your support.
Race info: http://web.me.com/joelpepper/Site/Welcome.html
Joel, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for paddeling for Lisa this
year. 32 miles across the ocean using your arms only... WOW!
That's amazing!!!!!!!!! Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!
August 24th, 2009 - A note from Lisa
Well hello everyone! It's nice to tell
What do I say... things have been very difficult the past several weeks.
Lisa is slowly getting better, the last dose of chemo really took a toll on her
physically and mentally. Lisa is trying to focus on feeling better again. It's
really hard for me to post right now. I know how bad the last few weeks
have been for Lisa and her family and don't really know what else to say,
other than to thank you ALL again for the outpouring of continued prayers,
love, support and incredible acts of kindness from so many. It has made a
tremendous difference in managing their household right now. THANK YOU!
Lisa saw her doctor this week, he canceled her chemo for the next few weeks.
It will take some time for her to recover from the complications she had from
her last round. It's a bump along the way.... sometimes things get a little
bumpy. Yes, this really sucks!!!!! BUT... YOU will beat this Lisa!! We ALL
love you so much and we will be by your side every step of the way!
~A
August 5th, 2009
A note from Lisa:
I have chemotherapy induced necrosis of the bones. It's causing me
a lot of pain but it will repair itself over time and should not leave me
with any permanent damage. I am still moving slowly, the pain
started in my joints and i guess that is where it's eventually stop by
they way I feel. It is now in my knees pretty bad. I just don't want
to stop moving all together and give it a chance to stiffen up. I will
have this week and next week off of chemo to allow for the utmost
healing. My counts were already on there way back up so that means
the healing process has begun on it's own. Dr. Gerson was thinking he
may have to give me the nuetrophill shots to increase cell growth for
me but they are doing it on there own. ( sorry about spelling!) My
eyes are still buggy from the drugs and slowly i am making my way
back here but it has been slowly!
Lisa~
August 1st, 2009
Sorry I haven't been able to post all week, I have been out of town and
without a computer. Lisa has been really sick for about a week and a half.
Mark said she was feeling better today and was out of bed moving around.
Lisa had a bone marrow biopsy done this past Wednesday, the doc called
her Thursday night to tell her she had bone marrow necrosis - a complication
from the high dose of chemotherapy she was receiving. They did not give
her scheduled chemo last week. Lisa will know more this coming week.
~Angie
July 29th, 2009
Lisa is still very sick, please continue to pray for her.
July 26th, 2009
I just spoke to Mark, he said Lisa is VERY sick right now, the worst she has
been since she has been home. PLEASE keep Lisa in your prayers.
I'm traveling the next few days and might not be able to post for several
days but will post as soon as I can.
July 26th, 2009
If anyone can drive Lisa to her appointment tomorrow PLEASE email
me at grizbabes@gmail.com or call me at 310-704-1447. Lisa has
been sick for the last four days, I figured she was not doing well since
i haven't heard from her, Mark said she has been in bed since Wednesday.
July 22 nd, 2009
I finally posted the letter to Lisa from Melissa (ALL survivor) on the
letters to Lisa page.
I also want to let Lisa's sorority sisters know that we received their donation
yesterday - thank you! It was sent out over 2 months ago & we just got it.
I have had a couple of people contact me telling me their donation/letters
were sent back to them. What's up with the postal service? If anyone else
sent a donation and you don't see your name listed on the donations page,
or get a thank you email from us, that means we didn't get it. We don't
want anyone to think we didn't thank them.
Lisa was wiped out when I talked to her yesterday. Lisa's step mom
is visiting from Florida for a few days, hopefully they are having a nice visit.
July 21st, 2009 Treatment update below
Click on the link to view some pictures from my visit to Canton.
Pictures of Dinner at Wasabi in Canton & our trip to the
Rolling Ridge Animal park in Amish Country.
This is for you Lisa... hope you enjoy it!! It was great seeing you!
http://albums.phanfare.com/isolated/81vWnd2p/1/4213552
Lisa saw her doc today and at this point they have decided that she will
not get a bone marrow transplant unless she has a relapse. Since Lisa does
not have a sibling match, they feel the transplant is too risky at this time.
With a non-sibling donor match there is little benefit over the chemo
treatment plan. About 15 % of ALL patients benefit due to GVH disease.
Lisa has a 44% chance the Leukemia may NEVER come back. So, her odds
are better without getting the transplant. So, Lisa will continue with Chemo,
I have updated her chemo schedule on the grizbabes page.
Lisa is determined to beat ALL... keep praying!!!!!!
July 20th, 2009
Sorry I haven't updated Lisa's website for a few weeks, I've been on vacation
and haven't been online much. I did get to see Lisa, Mark and the kids for
several days. Lisa was feeling pretty good the day we arrived so we all
went out for a nice dinner, it was good for Lisa to get out of the house.
It was really hard for me to see how much life has changed for Lisa, Mark &
their family. For the most part, Lisa has no energy and basically is on the
couch all day resting or off to the hospital for Chemo treatments.
Fortunately Lisa's brother Dennis who lives in PA was able to take
Grace & Jack for a week long vacation. Lisa's sister Michele also
spent the week in PA with the kids. The kids had just gotten back
home from their trip when I arrived and were telling me all the fun
things they did.
I got to take the kids to the movies and we also went on an awesome
horse drawn buggy ride through a zoo in Amish Country where we got
to feed a bunch of animals, it was so much fun!! Lisa was not able to join
us because she was spending her days getting chemo. It was great to spend
time with the kids but we really missed having Lisa with us.
I thought Lisa looked really good considering what she has been through.
Lisa is a little puffy/bloated from the steroids, but overall I thought she
looked great. Lisa did show me her bald head, her hair is starting
to grow back and looks more like a buzz cut. Even without her hair, she is
as beautiful as always.
I had the opportunity to meet several of the wonderful people that have
been so helpful to Lisa and her family. It is nice to put a face to the name.
We stopped by Penny & Dave's house, they have been good friends of Lisa
and Marks for several years. Penny is the person who helped get many of
the volunteer drivers, she has been a tremendous help!!! I also met Judy P.
who is a good of friend of Lisa's who has helped with driving & the kids.
Tammy Daily stopped by with dinner one night so I got to meet her also, she
has dropped of many meals for the family, which has been an enormous help.
I also got to meet 5 of the volunteer drivers, what a GREAT group of ladies!!!
We met for coffee, I really enjoyed visiting with them.
Lisa is getting chemo again today and meets with her doctor tomorrow to
find out the next step.
I'll be posting some pictures to the family pictures page later today.
Like I've said before, I'm so proud of Lisa for being so positive. Lisa's
spirit is good, she is determined to beat cancer. Lisa does have many
bad days but never seems to lose her focus.
It was great spending time with Lisa, my brother and their kids. We love you!
A ~Angie
July 7, 2009
Lisa has this week off from chemo. I will be visiting Lisa this week... I
can't wait to see her!
July 1st, 2009
Lisa saw her doctor yesterday, she begins consolidation cycle 1 of 4 on
July 13th. It's a 28 day cycle taking her into August. Dr. Gerson said the
team is divided on whether a transplant will take place yet. He will review
the data and present the facts to her before a decision is made. I spoke to
mark yesterday and he said Lisa was vomiting in the morning and feeling
very tired, she is still having side effects from her last dose of chemo.
We are still looking for drivers to take Lisa to her chemo appts. on the
following dates: July 17th & 20th. If anyone is able to drive her, please
email me at: grizbabes@gmail.com . Thanks!!!
We would also like to thank a girl from the Ohio area named Melissa,
she is an ALL survivor and somehow came across Lisa's website.
Melissa has taken the time to write Lisa, it really means a lot to her.
I'll be posting some new letters on the letters to Lisa page in a few days.
June 27, 2009
Mark took Lisa to get a transfusion today, they found out last night that she
needed to go in this morning. Lisa had a reaction to the transfusion,
so they spent about 4 hours at the hospital. Normally it takes about 20-30
minutes but it took close to 3 1/2 hours. Finally on the 3rd attempt they were
able to complete the transfusion. Lisa is home now and resting, she is
feeling very fatigued, no energy. Check out the new pictures posted on
Lisa's family pictures page of Joel Pepper paddling 22 miles in efforts to
raise money for Lisa.... thanks again Joel!!
June 24, 2009
Lisa is not getting chemo this week, she is at home. Lisa is completely
wiped out.
June 21, 2009
A huge thank you goes out to Bill Kindle & his son Alex from San Clemente,
who volunteered their father's day weekend to help out Joel and be his
boatman & crew. Normally the boatman & crew are compensated around
$500.00 for such an event, they refused compensation.
Bill is dealing with prostate cancer and wanted to donate something he could,
his time and use of his boat. Joel said, "this is extreme generosity in my
opinion." We agree with you Joel! Thank you all so much!!!!
Thank you for sponsoring Lisa! With much appreciation and gratitude.
~ The Griewisch family
June 21, 2009
Just received an email from Joel, this is what he had to say. " We got our
a_ _ es kicked in the channel today a lot of swell and a lot of chop it was
pretty miserable as far as conditions go, but my first crossing went well. I
wanted to finish under 5 hours, but due to conditions it was more like 5:20.
At the end i didn't care, it was just good to finish." CONGRATS JOEL!!
Lisa and all of are so proud of you! Thank you!!
June 21, 2009
Happy Father's Day to Mark and to all the Father's out there.
Lisa, it's a beautiful day in Southern Cal so know that your dear friend
Joel Pepper is out paddle boarding 22 miles in sunny skies today. Thank
you Joel for sponsoring Lisa this year. You rock!!! I spoke to Lisa this
morning and she is WIPED out! Lisa is in bed, feeling extremely fatigued.
June 18, 2009
Meet Joel Pepper... a father of two, who will be spending the better part of
Father's Day out on the open ocean paddelboarding for a cause... cancer.
Thank you Joel for your dedication to the sport and to supporting Lisa in
her battle with leukemia. In the past Joel has participated in these events
in support of sarcoma, and this year would like to be sponsored a buck a mile
for Lisa's cause. 1st event is this Sunday, 22 miles... a buck a mile.
Then, another... August 30th, the Catalina Classic is 32 miles..a buck a mile.
For more info: http://web.me.com/joelpepper/Site/Welcome.html
Whether you sponsor Joel through Lisa's leukemia fund, the sarcoma
foundation, say a prayer or write an inspirational message in the guestbook,
we are grateful for each and every one of you.
Personally, I look forward to meeting you Joel Pepper!! I appreciate your
supporting Lisa, my sister-in-law and the sarcoma foundation. In addition
to Lisa having cancer, I also have very dear friend who has
sarcoma, a father of two with one one the way who was recently diagnosed.
You can count on my support!!
It doesn't hit any closer to home than this, at least not for me.
Thank you on behalf of Lisa, her husband Mark, their family and mine!
~Angie
We would like to thank Joel Pepper of Redondo Beach, CA who
is participating (again) in 2 major paddleboard races this summer that
cross the channel from Catalina Island back to the mainland.
For more info: http://web.me.com/joelpepper/Site/Welcome.html
The first race is 22 miles and the second one is 32 miles! The
races are called rock 2 rock and Catalina Classic. Joel has asked
the people interested in sponsoring him to donate to Lisa's cause.
A buck a mile. Both events are cancer fundraisers.
Joel sent out an email to his friends, here is what he said:
" I'm emailing you this to see if you'd be interested in sponsoring
me for one or both races, a buck a mile, $54 total, an email back
telling me to pound sand... whatever you like. Lisa is a friend of
mine from high school who has Luekemia and I'm trying to use this
paddling to raise money to help her and her family out. Most of you
won't know her , but i can vouch for the fact that she and her
husband are cool people and woth helping out. I'll be out there
getting my ass kicked on father's day for about 5 hours of your
nickles, so you'll have 2 reasons to smile."
All sponsors/donars will be listed on the thank you page.
All I can say is Kudos to you Joel Pepper!! I've been to Catalina by boat
many times but couldn't imaging paddleboarding all the way back... WOW!
People like you make a differnce in our world, thank you!!!!
June 18, 2009
Just got an email from Mark, Lisa is at home resting, no other
details other than they released her again for a few days :-).
June 17, 2009
Lisa did get admitted again yesterday for another chemo treatment.
We are hoping that she will do well again this week and be able to go
home for a few days.
June 12, 2009
HAPPY 36th BIRTHDAY LISA!
Lisa went wig shopping - looking good Lisa!! I must say you picked a
good one... your beautiful!
Jack is doing better and everyone else is healthy. Lisa is doing good. They are all taking
still taking Tamiflu. Lisa wanted me to thank those of you who took the time to email in
recipes. Lisa will be writing a post sometime this weekend. Thanks for the continued and
much needed prayers.
November 17th, 2009
Lisa saw her doctor today and he said to continue taking the Tamiflu. Lisa will start her
next round of chemo after Thanksgiving, they are talking about starting it on Nov. 30th.
Mark said jack is doing okay, he was napping when I called. I'll update again tomorow.
A NOTE FROM LISA JUNE 4, 2009 May 22, 2009 May 24,2009 a note from Lisa April 27, 2009 ~ Scroll down for a some new pictures. Lisa got another blood transfusion on Thursday April 23rd; she also got platelets last week. The blood/platelets were very much needed. Lisa fell down her stairs Thursday morning - she collapsed from weakness & dizziness. Lisa’s oncologist encouraged her to try and get out of the house on Friday since she would have some energy from the transfusion. So, Friday the 24th & Saturday the 25th were much better days. Lisa was feeling good enough to get out of the house for an hour & a half each day. Mark took Lisa over to the kid’s school on Friday and they had lunch with their children in the teachers lounge. Lisa sounded SO happy when I spoke to her later that day. In fact, it’s the best she has sounded since she got diagnosed. Lisa hasn’t been able to do anything with her children the last 8 weeks so it was really GREAT for her to go visit them at school. It was equally great for the children! Saturday was another good day, Lisa was actually feeling good enough to go watch Gracie play soccer. Sunday the burst of energy was gone… it was back to feeling like crap and throwing up all morning and today is a chemo day. Lisa will continue her treatment as scheduled and will be in the maintenance phase of treatment. Thank you for your continued support and prayers. Dr Gerson will see us again on May 12 to discuss the next phase of treatment. It looks like she is headed back to the hospital for in patient treatment. He said 5-7 days. This is the intensification treatment and the risk of fever is high. We did receive some mixed news about the bone marrow matching. Her siblings are NOT a match. Dr Gerson did say there was a single computer match for an unrelated donor from the National Marrow Donor Program. They are in the process of contacting the donor and determining after additional screening if it is still a valid match. This will take some time he said. We were told by him to understand there are pluses and minuses with both decisions. He will sit down with us and discuss when the facts are in front of him. If the donor is acceptable he said we would be looking at July or August for a transplant if that was our decission.. Sunday April 19th, 2009 ~ Sharing a note from Lisa to Angie Hi Ang, it has been forever since I have been on the computer. Last weekend,right before Easter, I started getting sick. I guess my liver enzymes are screwed up and my liver is not liking what they are giving me so they stopped the two most likely candidates for liver failure and I am doing much better. They just have to run tests and give my liver time to regroup before they start the drugs up again. I don't want liver failure on top of everything else! But, it and the fact that I needed and still feel like I need, blood hasn't made me feel so great. I have been really down. It’s hard to feel up when you are constantly tired but not sleepy,weak but not weak minded, angry and too weak to be angry. It’s really sucking right now! Two and a half years of treatments have really thrown my game off target. I just can't imagine it… such a long road. Not being able to drive myself ever??? It's not a bad drive to my treatments; it really doesn't take that long when traffic is moving, but having to rely on everyone for every little thing, that is hard. The people (volunteer drivers) are so wonderful. I mean I have only met a few drivers so far but these women are just wonderful. I can't thank them enough. I don't know… I think I am just going to call you my sister, instead of in law… makes more sense. My finger tips have some neuropathy in them so typing is kind of odd. I know it will get worse though before it gets better. I'll be in touch. Much love and big hugs, Lisa~ Friday April; 17th, 2009 Mark Just sent me an email, he said he came home and found his front yard had been mowed by his neighbor. THANK YOU Adam! I think ringing. Mark & I were just discussing his lawn this afternoon. We were talking about needing to find a lawn service to come once in awhile if Mark can’t get to it. So, if anyone has any recommendations, please let me know. grizbabes@gmail.com Mark said that Lisa had a really bad day yesterday, and that she was really down. Lisa got 2 units of blood today, hopefully it will give her some energy and the strength to get focused again. Thursday April 16th, 2009
A special thanks to this weeks drivers, Judy P., Lori, Elizabeth B. and Denny. You were a tremendous help. I also want to thank Judy R., Meridy, and Judy P. for offering to drive Lisa tomorrow. Please let me know if anyone is able to be put on a stand by driver list for Friday April 24th & May 1st. Lisa is not scheduled for any treatments those days. But, we learned today that we should be prepared… just in case.
Thanks! Angie The good news is that Lisa’s docs changed her medication a little so she won’t be throwing up as much. Monday was a bad day for her. I’m not sure how today went, Lisa wasn’t home from treatment when I spoke to Mark tonight. Wednesday is the day she gets her spinal chemo. Lisa said it’s so awful that she can’t sleep the night before, she has anxiety about the treatment she is about to endure. Just remember Lisa… you have many people fighting this battle right along side you… you are not alone! We love you! I just wanted to say thanks again to the people who signed up for the meal schedule and for the people who volunteered to drive Lisa to her treatments. What a tremendous help you all have been. Thank you. Monday April 13th, 2009 I finally got a chance to list the sponsors, see the sponsors - thank you page. If I forgot to mention anyone please let me know. We are so grateful to all of you!! Thank you!!
June 11, 2009
GREAT news... Lisa is going home today! Lisa responded so well
to her treatment that she gets to go home for a few days. I just
spoke to Lisa and she sounds great, she is sooooooo happy! Lisa
will get admitted again early next week. We are all really worried
about this phase of treatment but so far so good! Lisa said she
hardly slept the last two days and other than a headache she
was feeling good. New pictures of Lisa can be seen on the family
pictures page.
June 9, 2009 Lisa was admitted today, this is going to be a very difficult
month. I will update the grizbabes team page once I get more info and also
post some new pics in the next few days on the family pictures page.
June 8, 2009
Lisa was supposed to get admitted today and start her chemo but
got a call from the hospital telling her no beds were available. Enjoy
another day at home Lisa!
June 4, 2009
We would like to thank Joel Pepper of Redondo Beach, CA who
is participating (again) in 2 major paddleboard races this summer that
cross the channel from Catalina Island back to the mainland.
For more info: http://web.me.com/joelpepper/Site/Welcome.html
The first race is 22 miles and the second one is 32 miles! The
races are called rock 2 rock and Catalina Classic. Joel has asked
the people interested in sponsoring him to donate to Lisa's cause.
A buck a mile. Both events are cancer fundraisers.
Joel sent out an email to his friends, here is what he said:
" I'm emailing you this to see if you'd be interested in sponsoring
me for one or both races, a buck a mile, $54 total, an email back
telling me to pound sand... whatever you like. Lisa is a friend of
mine from high school who has Luekemia and I'm trying to use this
paddling to raise money to help her and her family out. Most of you
won't know her , but i can vouch for the fact that she and her
husband are cool people and woth helping out. I'll be out there
getting my ass kicked on father's day for about 5 hours of your
nickles, so you'll have 2 reasons to smile."
All sponsors/donars will be listed on the thank you page.
All I can say is Kudos to you Joel Pepper!! I've been to Catalina by boat
many times but couldn't imaging paddleboarding all the way back... WOW!
People like you make a differnce in our world, thank you!!!!
~ Angie ` see the new post from Lisa below
May 24,2009 a note from Lisa
Lisa is feeling GOOD!!!!!!! Enjoying her time off of chemo and has
actually been out to do a few things. Nothing big, but at least she is
getting out a little. May 18th, 2009
Just spoke to Lisa, she sounds great today :-). Lisa does not need blood
tomorrow, her labs were good. Still need a driver for Friday 5/29 if
anyone can take her email me at grizbabesteam@gmail.com . Lisa will
only need to go on Friday if she needs blood. Thanks!
May 13th, 2009
Lisa will be off chemo until June 8th. Lisa still has 2-4 appointments
each week in Cleveland. Here is what we know as of yesterday's appointment.
Lisa is still waiting to hear more details from the transplant team and is
not sure where the transplant will fit into the treatment schedule above.
Dr. Gerson said once she starts her intesification phase that she will
have a couple of tough months ahead of her. Apparently the drugs they
give her during this phase are very powerful, much stronger than the first
two rounds of chemo that she has had.
May 12th, 2009
Mark & Lisa are meeting with Lisa's doctor right now, I'll be posting the
details later today. Mark just called me and said Lisa will not be
hospitalized this week. Lisa has to go back to the hospital tomorrow.
If anyone is available to drive her please email me ASAP. Lisa's
appointment is at 9:00. grizbabes@gmail.com Thanks! Angie
* WE HAVE A DRIVER - Mark Piatt offered to take Lisa ~ Thanks Mark!
May 9, 2009 Note from Lisa's sister Sara Hurlburt:
I just want you to know I love you and you're probably one of the
strongest women I know. Thank God mom taught us to be
fighters... I love you!
For those of you who don't know this, Lisa and her siblings lost
their Mother to Cancer 10 years ago May 6th. I have to agree with Sara,
Lisa is one of the strongest women I know too! We have Lisa's mother to
thank for that, for teaching Lisa to believe in herself, to be brave, and to
have the will and courage to fight when she needs to.
We all love you Lisa!
Happy Mother's Day!
~Angie
May 5, 2009 Note from Lisa:
Thank you to everyone who has posted, drove, brought us dinner and
donated time and money to help us. I really can't express how much
your kindness means to me an my family. Thank you is all I can say.
God bless.
Lisa~
May 1, 2009 Email from Lisa:
My white count is below one, "yeah!" chemo is working, my blood and platelets have
twice the last two weeks, which means the chemo is working! I have one more
treatment then I have a week off of chemo but not off of hospital visits
I have to get my blood checked Monday and Wednesday and if I need
platlets or blood, I have to drive up the next day to get it. I see my Doctor
on Tuesday the 12th and since he said a week off I imagine he is going to
put me back in the hospital very quickly to get the next phase started. It
actually would be easier to be in house since they need to draw blood
so much.
We got some information about the bone marrow transplant from the
national donor marrow program and I watched the video last night about
what they do. it is scary but a means to an end. We'll see what happens.
Just a wait and see game this whole process. I am not that big of a
planner but I am more of a planner than I though I guess. After a
transplant you are in the hospital for 1-4 months, then it takes a year
before they believe it is over. You go daily to have your blood checked
too. At least that is what the video I watched said.
I can't go anywhere for awhile nor do I want to with this flu, it scares
the crap out of me. My white count is way too low to go in an enclosed
place. I can go to a soccer or basbeall game to see the kids play
because it is outdoors but nothing indoors for a little while. But, the
weather is not warm so I won't be going to any games either. I'll be here
in the house over the weekend. But, I travel so much to the hospital
during the week it doesn't bother so much. I can't help but feel
irritated right now. I just hate not doing things myself. Then being sick
on top of that and feeling so helpless it sucks... it really does.
Okay, vented enough. I'm not in a good mood today... feeling grumpy.
Love ya,
Lisa~
May 1 ,2009
I spoke to Lisa, she is feeling a little grumpy today - she's entitled!
Lisa did get another blood transfusion yesterday, her counts are down
so she has won't be able to get out at all this weekend. After Lisa's
\ chemo treatment on Monday, she will get one week off of Chemo.
Lisa still has to go to the hospital to get her labs checked during her
week off. Mid May, Lisa will be hospitalized again and receive her next
round of chemo as an inpatient. Hang in there Lisa!! I know you have
cabin fever, hopefully you will be well enough to get out a little next
week. Mother's day is next Sunday... it's a great week for you to be
off of chemo!
April 30, 2009
If anyone is available to drive Lisa to her chemo appt. on Monday May
please let me know. Thanks! Angie ~ Email: grizbabes@gmail.com
Just got an email from Faith Robinson, she can drive her - thank you Faith!
April 29, 2009 4:00 pm
Lisa is still at the hospital, waiting to get her chemo treatment. Lisa had
her 5th spinal tap today ... she's glad that's over!!!! They also gave her
platlets today
Lisa asked me to post a thank you to Sam & Sue Murphy, they dropped off
a beautiful bouquet of flowers for her yesterday. THANK YOU!
I know I've already thanked you all, but we really can't thank you enough. The April volunteer drivers were a such a huge help. Words can't express our gratitude. Getting Lisa to her appointments would have been impossible without you. Thank you - Judy Piatt, Penny Hrusovksy, Lori Tolly, Elizabeth Bender, Janet Gens, Pam Proctor, Karen Evans & Beth Rhodes. I also want to thank Ann Becker, Judy Russell, Faith Robinson, Mary Lubic Alice trout & Brenda Butterworth who have also offered to drive Lisa to her appointments when needed. Thank you ladies!
We also would like to thank all the ladies who have dropped off meals or ordered take out for Lisa's family this past month as well as those who signed up signed up for May. It' a tremendous help! Thank you - Tina Ferraloro, Kelly Boeshart, Sherri Litten, Jamie Harding, Faith Robinson, Tammy Ledgerwood, Penny Hrusovksy, LuAnn Pusateri, Tammy Daily, Janet Gens, Cindy Loi, Andrea Griffor, Beth Rhodes, Barb Beck, Melissa Elsfelder, Andrea Krynicky & Finnly Benner. THANK YOU!!!! If I forgot to mention anyone, let me know.
Pictures taken 4/24/09 Lisa visiting her kids at school.
Another thank you goes out to Cliff Douglas for mowing Mark & Lisa's front lawn today. While Cliff was mowing the lawn, Jeff Pierce from JP's Lawn & Landscape Care (330) 705-6006 stopped by and told Cliff to let Mark know that he would take over from now on - he volunteered to cut and maintain their lawn for the rest of this year! THANK YOU!!
April 23,2009 Lisa will get her last treatment on 5/4 for this consolidation treatment. The Dr then said she will have approximately a week off. She will still require her blood counts to be checked a couple times that week at the Chagrin Office. Her blood levels are not normal as expected with the treatment. She will need additional blood units today! Lisa is responding well to treatment to date. However, they are monitoring her liver closely because the "numbers" are not were they need to be.
We just found out yesterday that Lisa’s treatment plan is 2.6 years. We also found out that Lisa will be heading back to the hospital as an inpatient sometime in May for an extended stay again. So, that means 2 months down and 29 to go… hard to believe.
It was a rough day for Lisa, she was vomiting all morning... all the way
to
breaking in the volunteer drivers. I guess Lisa is very sensitive to smell and
the smell of coffee is what triggered the vomiting today. They put an IV in Lisa once she got
to the hospital to get some fluids back in her so they could give her chemo. Hopefully she
is feeling better tonight. 
Sunday April 12th, 2009 HAPPY EASTER!
Easter Dinner was dropped off for Lisa's family... "WOW! Did we get dinner". Mark said.
Big Thanks t o the Barr Family for making Easter Dinner for the Griewisch family.
Thank you:
Andrea Griffor
Beth Rhodes
Barb Beck
Melissa Elsfelder
Cindy Lioi
Andrea Krynicky
Finley Benner
Wednesday April 8th, 2009
We have volunteers to drive Lisa to her chemo appointments for the month of April. It took less than 24 hours to fill this schedule, which is just incredible. We are extremely grateful for the volunteers who signed up. This is a tremendous help. THANK YOU!
Some great news… Lisa’s bone marrow biopsy results from last week came back clear. Mark said the doctor even used the word “remission”. We are VERY pleased about this. This doesn’t change the treatment plan. Lisa will continue to get chemo. The doctor said it’s just the beginning and they have a long road ahead. But, this is great news!
Here is a link that explains ALL treatment:
I posted a couple of new pictures of Lisa. One is towards the bottom of the home page and one on Lisa’s story page. You look Beautiful Lisa!!!
We would also like to welcome
Monday April 6, 2009
Lisa is in
We checked with social services and the hospital does not provide transportation. There is a company that has a shuttle/van service but they do not pick up outside the county.
Sunday April 5, 2009
Today was yet another challenge. It seems like there are no breaks in sight right now and we are all feeling the strain. One really great thing happened today so I’ll start off with that. Lisa was feeling well enough to go to church with her friend Judy. Lisa was able to pray with the pastor and share her story. In the midst of the chaos today, the hopelessness Lisa has felt the last few days, and the struggles she faces ahead, getting to church today and praying was at the top of list.
The bad news… Jessica quit! Ughhhhhh Yes, she is the nanny who just started last Thursday. It was a huge disappointment. It turns out she found another job with more hours and benefits. No hard feelings, good for her but bad for us. We are now at ground zero. We do have another person that is interested in the position but will she work out is the big question… we hope so.
I cannot even begin to understand what Lisa, Mark & her family are going through. It certainly seems like it would be tough enough to have cancer, but to have the additional challenges of finding childcare and someone to drive Lisa to her appointment four times a week is really more than any of us can handle right now. We are all on what I like to refer to as full tilt. It’s one day at a time and we must remember that we are a team… the grizbabesteam. I love you Mark & Lisa
Put your hope in God and know real blessings! Psalm 146:5
April 4, 2009
I just got off the phone with Lisa, she sounded depressed today. Lisa said it’s really been difficult being home. Lisa feels like she is being a burden to her family and feels very helpless. “No one prepares you for this.” Lisa said. It was also extremely hard for Lisa to hand over her motherly duties to another person. They had to hire a nanny to care for the children. We’re thrilled to have found a great girl to help out with Grace & Jack. Welcome to the grizbabesteam Jessica.
While at home Lisa continues to take a bunch of medication, most of them are to prevent side effects from the chemo, like thrush. Lisa said her taste & smell is way off, she finds a lot of odors very offensive, even her favorite perfume smells awful right now. Lisa’s out patient chemotherapy starts next week. Mark & Lisa have yet another MAJOR challenge; they have to figure a way to get Lisa to the hospital 4 days a week for her out patient chemo. Mark has to work, so he can’t take her. Lisa’s Dad Denny has been with them for about a month now, but he will heading to
Lisa said Grace and Jack were wonderful yesterday when she was feeling really tired and sick. Jack checked all the cords to her port to make sure they were all okay while Grace laid in bed next to her, held her hand and rubbed Lisa’s checks until she fell asleep.
I posted some new pictures in the photo section.
Please keep writing notes in Lisa’s guest book, it brings her up when she’s down.
3-31-2009
Lisa went home today! YEAH! Lisa was looking forward to getting outside to take in the fresh air. Mark, Grace, Jack & Lisa’s Dad Denny decorated the front yard and inside the house with welcome home signs, balloons and flowers. What a great day!
Lisa is glad to be home! Mark headed out to the pharmacy to get about 20 prescriptions filled while Lisa settled in at home sweet home.
Round one of treatment is over, we are thankful for that! Lisa is out of the hospital but treatment continues. Lisa will need to go to the
VISITING IS LIMITED DUE TO ILLNESS
03/29/2009
Lisa is doing better, the pain medication is taking the edge of her pain. Lisa called Ted & Dee tonight, they are taking care of her bird kirby. Lisa talked to Kirby and he sang her a song that she taught him. Way to go Kirby!!
Lisa's Dad Denny & Mark have been super busy getting the house cleaned and ready for Lisa's return home. Who said men can't clean:-). Denny has been a huge help around the house and with the children... thank you Denny! Mark, we are all so proud of you, for keeping it together during this difficult period, you have been an outstanding father and husband.
Lisa, we're sending a ton of prayers your way, hoping the bone marrow biopsy goes well tomorrow.
We love you!!!!!!
03-29-2009
I spoke to Mark this afternoon and he said Lisa called him crying, she is in a tremendous amount of pain today, and she is not able to walk. They have her heavily medicated with morphine to get her through this phase. Apparently one of the drugs they are giving her is to help stimulate new bone marrow and the side effects are extreme pain in her bones.
Note from Lisa: 03-28-2009
The last few days have been like a bird in a cage! I've received my last round of chemo for this month and am now taking special shots to help the bone marrow grow new stem cells (hopefully NOT leukemia) so that my white blood cells count goes up and I can go home for a few days at least and hopefully just continue this course over the coming months as an outpatient. WE are praying for remission at this point. If I can reach remission my outlook is even brighter. Yes, this is not like a tumor at all. They have to do bone marrow biopsy's to ensure that my bones are making the right cells before they can complete my therapy. this is usually done over 1-2 years. But as a wise man once told me, "One day at a time". god bless all of you for your wonderful thoughts and prayers.
Love and HUGS, Lisa~
03-27-2009
Mark, Lisa’s Dad and the kids went to see Lisa for about 3 hours. It had been about 12 days since Lisa has seen her kids, so she was very happy to see them. “Lisa’s mood is good; it’s amazing how positive she is.” Mark said. Mark also brought up about 15 - 20 cards from friends & family, Lisa was looking forward to reading her mail J. Mark brought up a couple of turbans for Lisa, she was modeling them for the kids. “Lisa looks beautiful,” Mark said.
Lisa finished the induction phase of her chemo, she was given cocktails ( and I don’t mean margaritas) of Davnorubicin, Vinvritine, Zofran/Decadron, Peg-asparagnase and Nupragin , this kicked her butt. Now, they are monitoring her counts, trying to get them up. Lisa received 2 units of blood on Friday.. They are hoping to do a bone marrow biopsy this coming week and if all goes well, Lisa should be able to go home for a little while.
03-25-2009
I received a short email from Lisa today. The chemo is taking a toll on her today, she is feeling very tired. They did start her on growth factor to bring up her counts. Lisa was told that she could expect to be in treatment for the next 2 years. When something like this is happening, you just have to turn to God, and take it one day at a time. The prayers, love & support from family, friends and even strangers have been tremendous. Not to sound like a broken record... it really is making a difference. Lisa & her family are so grateful for each & every one of you. Thank you!
03-24-2009
Lisa is feeling better today. Her girlfriend Judy stopped by over the weekend to shave her hair off, it was falling out, and so she thought it would just be easier to shave it off. We are all so proud of you Lisa, you have an amazing amount of courage. Keep up your positive attitude. We love you!!
03-13-2009
Lisa's had a couple of rough days, she had a spinal tap & double chemo session & I believe chemo injected in her spinal fluid. Lisa hasn't responded to phone calls or emails in the last 3 days. Mark said she has had a terrible headache, nausea and hardly able to get out of bed.
03-15-2009 A post from Lisa:
I received blood yesterday and it put some pink in my cheeks. I took a nice long nap too. they really want you to keep moving so I try to get up and walk the little circle out in the halls. since I have to wear a mask all of the time when I leave my room it makes it hard to breath, but I just go until I need a break. after that, I needed a break!
I woke up today at 5:30. tried to go back to sleep but no luck. Mark and the kids are coming up and bringing me all kinds of stuff.
I'll be here through March for sure then depending on what the bone marrow biopsy says. Either they'll do outpatient chemo or start a different chemo that is stronger than the first and I'll be here for another 2-4 weeks to be closely monitored. Even if I do outpatient chemo I will still have to have my blood checked regularly. It will be a lot of driving but worth it to get the best treatment anywhere around this area has to offer for ALL. I found out yesterday of all the cancers only 1% of all cancers are blood cancers. That's not even breaking down the different types of blood cancers in the 1%. I knew I was a rare gem but come on Lord! He only gives us what we can handle. But some days it feels like he wants you to pass the hardest trial of your life. YOUR LIFE!
03-14-09. A note from Lisa:
Hello all! having a good day. I'm getting ready to watch a movie and relax. I have been so full of energy this morning that I feel the crash coming. I'm waiting for my blood transfusion. The blood bank is running late, my white is .5, my hcc is 25, and my platelets are 49. so it's time for a vampires refill! They let the platelets go lower as long as I don't have any bleeding, and I don't, then they will probably be next. but....so is the new way of my life!
03-13-2009
Lisa just got moved to the Penthouse suite. Okay, it's not a suite but she did get moved to a larger room with a desk and is happy about that. Lisa's mood is good, she is a little tired today and is having some side effects from the meds... one day at a time.
03-12-2009
Lisa had a rough weekend, she is focused again and positive today. It's week two of chemo. Lisa's Dad Denny is in town from Florida helping out with the kids, teaching them art and music... two of his favorites. Lisa really enjoys reading the entries to her guest book, it lifts her spirit.
03-04-2009
2nd round of chemo. Lisa is in good spirits and is ready for the fight.
03-03-2009
Lisa had a triple lumen central line IV catheter placed in the operating room under sedation. First round of chemotherapy
