I know it's been awhile since we've done a post - so today is the day! 

This is a picture of the amazing print we made [with the help of Rachel!]  It is a beautiful and constant reminder of the blessings of each other and the strength that we are 'rooted' in.

I never know how much detail to put in to these blogs, but its hard to truly explain things in Wayne's journey without getting into some medical 'jargon'!
So, I'll just dive into things.  Since our last post in July . . .  Wayne had his bone and bone marrow biopsies in late July.  Both showed spread of the cancer into the marrow as well as being highly involved in the bone.  Wayne's PSA continued to rise dramatically, as did his pain.  It was mid August when he got in for a consult at Princess Margaret.  [A HUGE thank you here to Aunt Brenda and Uncle Bill for 'taking us in', chauffeuring us around Toronto and keeping us fed and watered!! We appreciate that more than you'll ever know!!] The doctor there had a new trial that he felt would be beneficial to Wayne, but looking further into it was found that he was not eligible.  Without getting into too much detail, he didn't qualify because his cancer was too aggressive.  They thought they could maybe 'sneak' him in, but it would be another couple weeks - repeat all the scans, and then still may not be approved for the trial.  At that point his PSA was climbing so rapidly, and he was feeling so horribly, that waiting was not an option.  Our oncologist here had a drug approved for him which he could start right away, which would hopefully 'slow things down'  - so that's what we did.
He started that drug Aug 21st.  Within a couple weeks Wayne was starting to feel so much better.  His pain was much less and his energy was improving.
So today, a month after starting this new drug, he had follow up blood work and visit with our oncologist.  Aug 17th his PSA was 933 [it was at its lowest about half way through chemo at 23], today it is 83!!!!  Now that's some great news!!
Now, as with most things in Wayne's world, there is usually a 'but'.  It seems his new drug is suppressing his bone marrow, making his white blood cells/ neutrophils drop - once again, not a usual reaction - yep, that's Wayne!  So we are cutting down the dose of the drug and will check his blood work again in 2 weeks.  Praying this will help the bone marrow while still allowing the effect on the PSA.  In the meantime, we need to keep any bugs away from him!
He was also started on an IV drug today to hopefully help strengthen his bones [they had previously tried an injection for this, but it dropped his calcium too low].  If his blood work shows the calcium is tolerating this, he will go in monthly for this IV drug. 

I think that covers Wayne's last couple of months.  Obviously wasn't the summer we were hoping for, and far from our usual summer of adventures, but we were still together!!  And always thankful for all the everyday, simple treasures together.

As for the rest of us, we are back in the routine days of fall.  We are actually seeing our kids now more than usual - Jessica is on another co-op work term, so she is home till the new year.  Vanessa chose to do her BScN for the first 2 years here at Georgian and then will be going to York for 2 years, and Brian is off to grade 5.  Brian was super excited to have his same teacher as last year [she's amazing!!], and most of his core group of friends in his class again.  He is in the middle of try-outs for rep hockey, and he's loving being back in the net!  Vanessa is enjoying her program, even with the crazy amount of work she has to do.  Jessica loves being back at work at Barry's, she loves the variety of work and the people that she works with.  We've also been busy with her abundant little garden - even done some firsts for us - bread and butter pickles, salsa, relish, pickled beets, on top of our usual freezer beans, carrots and beets!  I am working again, just less shifts than what I used to do.  This seems to be working well for us, and it has been so nice to be back working with all the great people I have the privilege to call friends. Some shifts can be challenging mentally to me, but generally its been a good transition - working, and catching up with everyone [nurses always have great stories!!].  So very much to be thankful for!!

Before I started writing this blog, I took the time to read over our previous posts.  It's been quite the roller coaster these last 9 months, ups and downs for sure, but at the same time we are so full of thanks.  Obviously overwhelmingly thankful that Wayne can be feeling fairly good the last couple of weeks, but also thankful for 9 months!  Yep, they were not all 'good' days, but as we were discussing together today, its amazing how your definition of  'good' times changes.  We can look back and rejoice at the blessings of each and every day - we are together.  We have joy in simple moments.

We thank you all again for your continued love, support and prayers - it really does help so much, knowing that we are never going through anything alone. And we thank God for the peace we have, and continue to stand "rooted in Faith, Hope and Love".

You know those candid pictures, that when you look back at them you see how much was really captured in them - this is one of those pictures.  It was from our family photo shoot back in January, before Wayne started chemo. 

So here we are now, I so very much want to do a post with just good and positive news,  but that's not going to happen today.  Wayne had his repeat blood work this week, with the plan for us to just call in and get the results and keep coasting through the summer.  Once again, a change of plans.  When we called for the results we were told we had to come in to see the Dr. - of course, we didn't have a good feeling about that.  We met with the Dr. first thing yesterday morning - Wayne's PSA had increased significantly [was 91, now, just a few weeks later, it is 394].  The doctors have said all along that his cancer was very aggressive, but this number even shocked them.  This is way more aggressive than they thought.   The oncologist had already consulted with a number of other doctors before we met with her.  They need to do some biopsies, so they can analyze the cells and put a name to this beast.  Wayne goes for a bone marrow biopsy on Wed., and they will also need to do a bone biopsy [don't have a date for that one yet].  They are concerned there may be a type of small cell cancer as well - if that is the case, there is not much they are able to do and it would go very quickly.  If it comes back negative, and it is still the usual prostate cancer, we will go to Princess Margaret to see if they could offer anything else.  In the mean time, he is starting a monthly injection to try and help strengthen his bones and hopefully ease some of his pain.  They are also working on getting approval for another drug for him to start, which may help slow things down. They are hoping to have that in place to start next week as well.

Looking back over the last couple weeks, Wayne has been more tired and having more pain as well.  I guess on some level we knew things weren't going how they should be, but we always try and stay positive.  That is definitely getting harder. 
Yet we are so thankful for the supportive circle of people around us and our children. We are still standing [well, Wayne's laying more than standing these days!], but we are rooted firm in Faith - not knowing the plans for us, but knowing our God loves us deeply. We are trying hard to hold on to Hope and we are always surrounded by so much Love.

We are also keenly aware of the needs of so many people around us - who are also struggling with disease and decisions, who are facing loss and who have recently lost.  We live in such a broken world, yet we do not live without hope - we pray for you all.

Just putting out a quick update, we know there were lots of people thinking and praying for us today as we met with the oncologist to go over the recent test results.

So, the CT and bone scan showed that the lymph node size has gone down, and there are no new areas of cancer in the bones.  This is good, however the 'activity' of the existing cancer in the bones has increased - not so good.  Unfortunately his PSA count has gone up significantly, definitely not good.  We are going to do another blood test in a couple weeks, and check the PSA again - if still increasing she will look into clinical trials offered elsewhere.  There is really nothing more she can offer here.  Basically she said all we can really do right now is pray - and she has and will continue to pray for us as well.  She said Wayne's body has been through a lot these last few months, and she would like to see him be able to take it easy for the summer, and enjoy our time together with our children.  Not what you like to hear from a doctor, but we are thankful for her compassion and care.

Not the news we were hoping to hear or pass on to you all.  Yet we are trying to remain positive, enjoy the time we have together,  and stand firm in faith, hope and love.

 

Standing in awe of God's amazing creation, making more memories together!

 

 

 

We are so thankful for the awesome trip we were able to take with Brian, Derek, Tracey and Ryan - everything went so smoothly, and Wayne felt so great - for sure a miracle in itself.  Had so much fun just being tourists, and even got to meet up with some of our 'western' family!!  Great times with great friends - we are so blessed!

 

Looking forward to making some more great memories . . .



 



 



 



Having Fun with #plaidfordad !! - helping to raise awareness for prostate cancer

Well it's been pretty eventful around here lately - so we thought it was a good time to do another update.

Last Thursday Wayne had his final chemo treatment!  It seems like so long ago that he started chemo and we were counting down the months till it was done - well here we are!  Generally he has tolerated the treatments quite well, just really knocks him down for a number of days.  He's in his 'down days' now, so he can crash on the couch and tell me what to write!!
This Thursday he is having his bone scans and CT done.  This will give the doctors a better view of what the treatments have accomplished - if the chemo and hormone therapy have slowed the cancers progression or not.  But before they can give us the results, we are sneaking away for a little holiday!!  Wayne, Brian and myself, along with some dear friends of ours and their son, are flying out to Alberta for 5 days.  We had done this trip when our girls were young, and we've always promised Brian we would get him out west too - so we're doing it!!   We will meet with the doctor for the test results, do more blood work, and find out what's next when we get back.

Life around here keeps on moving on.  Jessica went back for her next semester at college - not necessarily where she'd like to be for the summer, but she's pushing forward!  Vanessa had her prom last week - another milestone we are so thankful Wayne was able to see [made it back from chemo just in time to see her and Bryden off!].  Brian is enjoying his school days with great friends and great teachers to support him [and of course, he's super pumped about our upcoming trip!]

Then there's the amazing "Family Fiesta Fun day" we had this past Saturday at Dual Acres - what can we say, but WOW!!!   I was searching the thesaurus for new ways of saying how completely overwhelmed we are, but no words can match how we feel.  Actually when you look up 'overwhelmed' it literally means 'bury or drown beneath a huge mass'.  We'll we're not buried or drowned but we are most definitely completely covered and surrounded and held up by the 'huge mass' of love and support we felt that day!!  The day was nothing short of perfect. The weather, the setting, so many people working together, and so much laughter and smiles -  as one friend said - we saw a little glimpse of what heaven will be like! 
To the organizing committee that came up with the idea, and managed to put together such a fun, smoothly-run day - you are all truly amazing for pulling it all off, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.  To the numerous people who helped out to keep the day running smoothly - from parking, wagon rides, 'toonie toss', kid zone, silent auction, dunk tank, and food - your willingness to help will never be forgotten.  To all those who donated to the silent auction - unbelievable!  The number of items was absolutely astounding [I believe 120 items were donated], and such unique and fun things - we were tempted to bid ourselves!!  To the dunk tank nominees - thank you for agreeing to brave the chilly waters, and for being such great sports about it.  And of course to the many people who came out from near and far [they're thinking it was close to 450 of you - or more!], again  - WOW, thank you for sharing the fun with us!  Even to those who couldn't join us, we were blessed by your messages, thoughts and support from afar!!  Our hearts are truly full.  Each and every one of you have given us the greatest gift we could ever ask for - the gift of love and wonderful memories.

Never has a day gone by since this awful new reality, have we had to doubt or question where our strength. love and support come from. Literally since the first day of diagnosis we have had food when we needed, an envelope [or jar!] appear with funds to help us out, cards/ messages/ phone calls/ visits and hugs to lift us up just when we were feeling weighed down.  God has shown us over and over again that He is walking with us and has put each of you on our path to help us along just when we need it the most. Knowing this, we are given strength for our tomorrows from Him and through you all.

With all our Love and Thanks

 

Oh, the relaxing days of summer vacations!!  Still hoping to be able to enjoy some more times like this . . .

Wayne has asked me to do another post for everyone, he's actually asked me to do some soliciting - soliciting of prayers!  He's always told people when they offer their support and prayers that "he'll take all the prayers he can get!"   . . . So we've been 'coasting' along here pretty well [considering what we're dealing with].  We had gotten into the pattern of chemo, knowing when it was coming, knowing when and how bad his 'bad days' were, knowing when he would have his stronger days.  Today was our usual pre-chemo blood work and visit with the oncologist.  But as usually happens, when people feel like they know what's coming, when we feel like 'we've got control of this', God steps in and says - 'No, I've got this, you need to step back and trust in me.'  Wayne's white blood cell count [neutrophils] are too low - despite him getting regular injections to build up his neutrophils.  It would be too risky to proceed with the chemo on Monday, so he will be having more blood work on Thursday, and possibly chemo that day.  His PSA has also increased, the Dr. is hoping it is just a "glitch", and will come back down with the remainder of the chemo, but it is still a concern.  Well, that was definitely not the news we were expecting.  So yes, we have been set back. We are resting on our Faith and the prayers of so many, we always have Hope in the power of prayer and are constantly surrounded, held up and enfolded by Love.

Through this all we constantly marvel at the amount of support we have and continue to receive.  We really have been blessed.  Last night I was able to go to a retirement dinner for a friend from my work.  It was a great evening, and a wonderful reminder of what a supportive and caring family we have in our co-workers.  I am so thankful for my work family, their love and support, and what they have taught me - to help me be the person I am.
We have also been humbled and overwhelmed by the efforts of those organizing a FUNday for us. When we were first approached about the possibility of a family fundraiser day, we really liked the idea of a 'fun' day with friends and family.  We are soooo looking forward to getting together with everyone and just having a great day, but also to have the opportunity to thank people in person for their cards, emails, messages, support, love and prayers over the last four months.  Hoping to see some of you there!  You can check out the website they have made  - www.waynehummel.ca

And so, even with life's ongoing twists and turns, we can say we are good, standing firm with Faith, Hope and Love surrounding and upholding us.

 

Soaking up some rays, enjoying these sunny days! 

Thought it was time again for another update. Not too much different to tell.  Wayne had his third round of chemo on Monday.  He enjoyed a day and a half of riding the steroid high [he gets steroids the day before and day after chemo to help with side effects - it works well, and he loves the extra energy it gives him!], now the crash begins.  Assuming things go as previously, he feels really rough for the next number of days and slowly starts to pick up again next week.  It's a frustrating week for him, he really hates feeling so crappy, but it helps to know it gets better.
He is halfway through the chemo treatments now, and if they stay on schedule he will have his last treatment the end of May.  Initially the doctor was thinking to do some scans after this treatment, but she has decided since he's tolerating the chemo ok that she'll wait till the full course is done and then check things over. [it would have been nice to know how things are going . . .just another example of God keeping things in His hands, forcing us [me!] to trust more and live with patience and faith].  Wayne does have more bloodwork next week and an appointment with the urologist the beginning of April, it will be interesting to hear what he has to say.  The last time we saw him was a couple of months ago and things weren't looking too good then.  Praying for a little more positive report this time!

On Wayne's good days we have been able to enjoy our time together - he has been able to make it to a few of Brian's hockey games, church, evenings out with friends, and lots of  just simple times together with the kids.  You really learn to appreciate the everyday little moments - sitting together for dinner, sharing stories, laughing, talking/helping each other.

One of Wayne's struggles is trying to figure out his "purpose" now.  A big thing for men, who are very much defined by what they do - their work, their tasks.  He may not see it, but I  see what he is doing now, and I tell him often - he is helping us and so many others.  He is still the head of our home, and helps us daily with his lead - by showing his faith, giving us leadership in decisions, and just being there for and with us.  He has had many friends and family visit and call, and I know he has helped them as well - by being what he has always been -  a good listener, an empathetic friend, an example.  He is missing having the energy to do things, to work, but praying he will see that he is 'working' - in a way he wouldn't have been able to before.
We never know how and who we impact in our daily walk, but it is our prayer that if  anything positive can come of all of this it would be that others will take the time to treasure the blessings in their lives.  Their spouse, their children, their family and friends - cherishing every moment and day as the gift that it is,  making memories together, seeing what's really important in this life and praying a little more.

 With the change in season coming, things are changing here too.  Brian's hockey is almost done, making things a little less busy here, but planning to start soccer in another month!  It seems to be good for him to keep some extra activities - to have some routine.  Vanessa is enjoying her high school co-op placement in the hospital, and her easier semester!  She is having to make some big decisions soon regarding her post secondary education.  As some of you may know, Vanessa is planning on doing her BScn to get her RN.  As offers are coming in now, she's having to make that choice of where to go in the fall.  Normally wouldn't be too hard, but with everything going on here she is having to make some tough decisions of where would be best for her.  Praying for guidance with that for her.  Jessica is going into her last month of her co-op placement.  She has been enjoying her work, and its been so nice to have her home.  She will be going back to school at the beginning of May til the end of August. [but hoping for a good schedule so she can be home more on weekends!]  Lots of things happening, but so thankful to be able to share these moments with them.


So that's where we're at now.  Every day brings its own blessings and challenges, but still thankful for every day together.  Thank you again to everyone, for everything!! 

Praying So Hard!!

I thought of this gem of a picture when I was thinking of what to do for this blog!  This is the most handsome little ring bearer ever - it was from 2013, Brian was in our niece Courtney and Ryan's wedding.  He did a great job, and took it all very seriously, as you can tell by his super concentrated face at the ceremony during the prayer.

Well that's where we're at now again - praying so hard.  Wayne had his second chemo treatment yesterday, doing ok so far, but praying hard for an uneventful next few days and weeks [for a change!].

We want to thank you all again for your continued support, love and prayers.  I feel like I'm repeating myself, but we really have felt 'held up' by you all.  When we stop and think of the last two months and everything we've been dealing with we wonder how we still function, how we're not a blubbering mess - but it is through the strength from you all, and our Loving Father in Heaven.  We recently had a prayer service in our church, there are so many struggling with various issues, and we personally see now more than ever how important the power of prayer is.  So thank you all for that, for being here for us, for everything!

Also, as some of you may know, I am taking a leave from work.  This was a very hard decision for me to come to.  I like to think of myself as being strong, being able to handle it all, but repeatedly I've been shown over the last while that I need to step back and just be here for Wayne and our family.  Hoping this is the right decision at this time, but also thankful that we have this option.  We'd also like to thank all of our co-workers and friends at this time who have so generously helped support us - it has helped us out so much!

So here we are, doing life together.  Thankful for each moment, keenly aware in our minds of the reality of this disease, but also fervently hopeful in our hearts of the opportunity for miracles and the power of prayer!