It's hard to imagine that we arrived 17 days ago. About half of those days have been a blur, and I apologize for not updating everyone with the situation at hand...
Shawndra is resting, but still experiences various levels of pain throughout the day. Today, Dr. Morgan is going to repeat the pain block procedure she had approximately one week ago. The procedure "degenerates" nerve endings present in the abdomen. Over the last 3-4 days, her kidneys have recovered, thanks to a bi-lateral nephrostomy.
There are days when Shawndra is very alert, talking, watching TV, and visiting with family, and a few friends. Then there are days (like yesterday) where the pain is so great, that the opiates needed to alleviate that pain, puts her into a deep sleep.
With the help of a social worker at the hospital, the family has been working to get Shawndra home, and in the care of home hospice. An inpatient facility was discussed, as well, but was quickly rejected after learning that TPN and IV fluids are NOT allowed in those type of facilities. Once at home, her primary care will be in the hands of us -- the immediate family -- with occasional visits from home hospice, and of course, other family, and friends.
Ella is feeling much better. She came down flu-like symptoms the middle of last week. She told me several times that she "doesn't like to throw up." Bless her heart.
I was thinking last night that one day, I'm going to print Shawndra's BLOG, in its entirety, have it laminated, and bound, for Ella to read... Ella, your mommy IS strong, kind hearted, and loving. She loves you all the time. These photos, stories, and thoughts are timeless.
I just asked Shawndra what she would like for me to write. Her reply was "tell everyone that I miss them".
Please pray for her comfort, and for our family. And thanks goes out to all of you who continue to help in so many ways.
- Doug
129 comments:
Doug and Shawndra,
We are all praying that you will continue to feel God's Peace through this difficult time in your lives. We pray for strength for the both of you. Know that many are coming to the feet of our Jesus, praying on your behalf.
-Jen in Indiana
Doug, there are online sites that will publish your blog. My sister published hers after losing her son. They even put a book cover on it and it's an actual book in the Library of Congress and can be purchased by anyone. I plan to publish mine this year.
Doug and Shawndra,
My thoughts are with you both...I hope you can make it home soon where you will be more comfortable. Saying many prayers for you Shawndra, Doug, Miss Ella and your families.
You have touched my life through this blog Shawndra
Doug,
Thank you for taking the time to post an update. I know there have been so many ups and downs. I keep thinking of Dr. Morgan's advice to take things 1/2 day at a time.
Shawndra briefly mentioned the inpatient option, but I didn't know about the restrictions. I pray to God that this pain block will work and provide her some relief. I was sorry to hear about the other procedure, though I know it was getting tough for her not to have a catheter.
You too are strong and courageous. Shawndra could not have done this without your love and support. I thank God every day for you.
Take care of yourself and your sweet girls.
Love, Dustin
Dearest Shawndra,
I miss you too. I come by here all the time and pray over you and your precious family. I just have learned so much from you and your fight. You just remind me so much of my best friend who fought the hard fight with cancer.
I pray for a peace for you Shawndra, Doug and precious Ella, for your extended families as well.
I pray ya'll are wrapped in the arms of Jesus.
I pray you can go home soon
I have been following your story for quite awhile now. I check on you several times a day. I hope you are out of pain and home soon with your family. In my thoughts and prayers.
Tracy from St. louis
Hello Shawndra, Doug, and Miss Ella,
I have never met you but learned of your blog thru someone. (now I can't even remember how.. it's been that long ago!) You have have been in my constant prayers and I think about you often. You have changed my life as a new mother and I look at my life totally different. I see that I am not the only one. I pray that you can feel at peace and pain free. I'm always praying for you!
Andrea
Shawndra and Family-
Our thoughts and prayers are with you always! Keep Believing! We Love You All!
The Mudge Family
Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family, Dougs Family (Hi Steve and Vicki) and to Ella. May you find peace and comfort during these troubled times.
Blurb.com does a wonderful job at printing books for a reasonable price.
Praying for miracles!
Doug,
Thank you so much for posting a blog. I have you all in my thoughts and prayers all day, every day. You are all amazing.
God bless you,
Jan
I pray that you find pain relief and are able to be at home soon in the loving arms of your family.
God Bless you Shawndra - you are an inspiration!
Hugs,
Susan
Shawndra, Doug and family,
You are in my thoughts and prayers. My heart aches for you all.
Love and Hope,
Wendy
You all are truly an inspiration. I will continue to pray for Shawndra to have comfort and have blessed moments with her family and friends.
Prayers from STL
Dear Shawndra,
In 2Corinthians 3, Paul tells us that God's people are a letter from Jesus to those around them. Your Blog is your letter saying to the people in your life, both those you know personally and from the Blog, of the wonderful person you are and what it means to be a family for the Turners, Beauchamps, and Kristoffs.
I love reading of your Faith in God, your love of your family, your determination, and how many lives you touch. You are loved by so many and we will continue to pray for pain relief and comfort so you can get back to your home.
Our whole family loves you and your entire family dearly!
Marilyn and Jim Harbrecht
What a heavy load you all are carrying. I can't take away any of the pain, or offer any promises of a long life. All I can offer is continuous prayer and the knowledge that you are all thought of, loved, and wished only the best each day has to offer. There is no doubt that Ella will always know she is loved. And printing the blog for Ella will be that reminder she'll have to turn to, when ever she needs a boost, to show her just how strong that love is.
GOD BLESS YOU DOUG FOR SUCH LOVING UPDATES.....PLEASE TELL SHAWNDRA I MISS HER SPARKLING WORDS ON THE BLOG....I CONTINUE TO LIFT YOUR NAMES IN PRAYER FOR COMFORT AND HEALING AND MANY PRECIOUS DAYS OF LOVE AND LAUGHTER.....MAY THE GOOD LORD SURROUND YOUR FAMILY WITH HIS PRESENCE...HIS GUIDANCE....HIS HEAVENLY TOUCH.....WITH CHRISTIAN LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP, YOUR ANGEL OF PRAYER IN KC, MO.....JEN MILLER :)
I, like many other here, have been praying for you for a long time and I'm praying today for relief from pain, comfort,wisdom and healing.
Shawndra, you have a really great husband! The two of you have a wonderful, loving family! Ella just couldn't be cuter!!
Hope you get home soon!
Sending my love and prayers for your entire family. Ella has two wonderful parents. May each of you feel God's loving presence during these very hard days.
Teresa
Doug, I have some .jpgs that I want to share with you. They're from years ago, and I'm quite sure you haven't seen them. I'll scan them tonight, and email them to you. I hope they'll bring smiles to both you and Shawndra --- and someday to Ella, too.
You all remain in my prayers.
So good to hear from you, thank you for taking the time, I know it's hard to do with so many things more important to tend to. Shawndra I will pray extra hard that you get home soon and have as much peace and comfort as possible. I also pray for your friends and family, that precious daughter of yours, I can't imagine how hard this all is on everyone. I know all of your prayer angels wish we could do more than just pray. :) You are in my heart. You are and will always be an inspiration to live by.
Deb (LSMO)
My prayers and thoughts are with all of you. I have been reading this blog for months and have been truly touched by each and every word. I'm glad to hear you will be printing it out for Ella to read someday!! Many hugs!!
Doug-you are such a rock for Shawndra and Ella. Thank you for being there for them.
Sweet Shawndra-I miss your smiling face and humorous comments on the blog. Please know you are constantly in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless You!
Hugs to you all,
Shelley
I am thinking of you both and praying for you often. I pray for peace and comfort for Shawndra and that she will be able to go home soon.
Still praying,
Christie in Ga
Thanks for the update Doug. While I haven't posted before I check the blog several times a day for updates and Krissy keeps me updated too. Our thoughts and prayers are with your entire family. Please let us know if there's anything we can help with. We're here in Olathe, near Krissy's house.
love, Angie Beck
We pray for you every day Ms. Shawndra and miss you too!
The Aiken Family (Louisville, KY)
Thanks so much for the updates...is there an account set up somewhere where we could send monetary gifts to help out during this time? 17 days in the hospital is not cheap with, not only medical bills, but childcare, food, etc...etc.. Please let us know!!!
Bless you all -
Jess in Nebraska
Many prayers for Shawndra to be out of pain and at home. We pray for strength and peace for you all. God bless!
Susan McRae and family
Doug - you are an amazing husband and father. I have commented on this blog a few times...I live on the east coast and have never met you all...although I feel like I know you personally just from reading the blog. I have a sister who will be 40 this year and she is also battling cancer. Your words help me and give me strength as I try to find some understanding of why these things happen. I can't imagine what you are going through as I am also married to a wonderful woman and have my own small children. Shawndra is lucky to have you...remain strong. I pray that Shawndra will soon be in the comfort of her own home.
Dear Ella
I just read your father's words. He mentions he'll print all of those coments for you to read one day.
I can't imagine the day you'll be reading them.
I hope you will have God in your heart to understand and accept your mother's illness.
Only you know how hard it is.
Try to love your family as much as you possibly can.
Love life, love your friends.
Make yourself as happy as you possibly can.
Mom, is always watching you and wants you to be happy, from wherever she is.
We pray for your family every day.
God has a reason for all that happens to us.
He only gives us what we can handle.
Look around, and feel that you're not the only one.
Smile, laugh.
That's what makes it easier on all the family, and you.
Love,
A brazilian friend your grandparents met in 1973.
We became close. Your grandfather helped us immigrate into the States in 1991.
I met you in May 2008.
You're such a lovely human being.
So filled with life.
Hope I'll meet you all many , many more times.
Roswita, living in Florida since 1996
I miss you too Shawndra! Praying like mad for you in freezing Nebraska!
Praying for you and your family always!
Thoughts and prayers for Shawndra.
Praying you feel peace & the pain lessens , that you can come home to spend time w/Ella in the COMFORTS of your own home...GOD BLESS YOU! I miss you sooooooo much, I miss talkin w/you and our e-mails&texts ...I MISS YOU,MY DEAR FRIEND!
If you can when you are home call me, I would love a chance to talk to you again (((((((((((((HUGS)))))))))))))
Love you bunches!
In Gods name, not my will but thy will be done!
YOUR IN MY PRAYERS!
I have been following your blog from NW Missouri for a year now. I am so sorry that you are coming to this point in the journey. I lost my husband in March. When we finally got home with hospice, I felt overwhelmed. But they are a Godsend and if things go like they did for us, they will help you create lasting memories and peace for Shawndra in the last days. There will be so many to help you, and I felt so blessed to have cared for and loved my husband to Heaven. You will have the strength you need with so many praying for you. I also have a blog, and thanks for the idea to print it because I need to for our young children. Shawndra is going to beat this ugly thing called cancer; it just won't be the way you and she wanted. That is the neat thing about true love, because it is so amazing to be able to show someone you love them unconditionally, and that what you want for them is peace and ultimate happiness. The time ahead of you will not be easy, but her love for you will keep you going.
Many blessings from Maryville.
Dear Doug,
Words can not express the amount of love, admiration and respect I have for you and dear Shawndra. While sitting with her yesterday, I studied her face and the embraced the beauty she radiated from within. Even though she was heavily sedated, she smiled for a moment before the pain set back in. I thought to myself, "What made her smile?" and then became upset knowing the smile was taken away due to the pain. Her smile is what I look forward to; her strength and grace I embrace and try to emulate in my own life. The lessons she has taught each and every one of us is to become a more compassionate human; live, love and laugh often with friends; embrace each day with family; have faith and believe in the Lord; listen to your heart and it will guide you in the right direction; beauty comes from within, starting with your attitude and spirit; humor is wonderful medicine; and appreciate and respect what the Lord has given you. Treat each day as it is a gift. She taught us to embrace love and to give love. She is love. She is spirit. She is Shawndra!
I love you both, so very much!
I anxiously await her homecoming!
Brandi
Dear Doug,
Please tell her that we miss her too. Thank you so much for the update. Love to all, Joyce
I am still praying for you Shawndra and for Doug and your family. I am so very sorry you are going through this..may God hold you in his arms and help you to be pain free...Sue
Thoughts and prayers. May God grant you strength to endure.
-Robyn in Texas
Jess in Nebraska, thank you, but please, no monetary gifts. - Doug
Thank you for updating us today. As you know, so many of us are praying for Shawndra to be pain free and comfortable at home with her family.
I wish you comfort, strength, and peace as you continue working to bring Shawndra home. And what a great memory this blog will be! Ella is blessed to have such a wonderful mommy and daddy!
thank you for updating the blog. I check everyday as i pray that you feel God is with you each step of the way. Our family prays for you everyday and wishes we could do more, but i know prayer is so powerful. Know that so many that do not know you are praying for you in Arizona. Melissa Markus and family (lynn Dreier's daughter from Arizona)
I continue to pray for all of you, especially Shawndra. I would never thought I could call somone that I have never met amazing, but I can and do. What an incredible inspiration you have been and continue to be!
Praying for strength and painless days. I hope that you are able to get the details worked out to get Shawndra home, and I hope that you are all able to have some peaceful family moments.
Our love and prayers,
Mandy Featherston and family
Please tell her that I miss her too.
You're in my prayers. May the Grace of God grant you peace.
Doug, I pray for Shawndra's peace and comfort regularly. I pray for your family as well as I know what a very difficult time this is in all your lives and my heart goes out to you. One of the recent sermons our minister shared is a verse in the bible that says, "you have not, because you ask not". The point of the sermon is to ask God for what you want him to provide as not asking could be the reason you do not receive it. I want God to provide peace and comfort for Shawndra and your family and for Shawndra to be pain free so very much. So I ask God for this over and over again and will continue to. Please tell Shawndra that I miss her so very much too. I miss hearing her heartfelt blogs where she has so generously shared her life with us all. She is an amazing woman who has taught me so much about loving and appreciating all of those who are important in my life and to appreciate and embrace each day that God blesses me with. Please send her my love and let her know that I think of her and pray for her daily. You're an amazing husband Doug. You and your precious daughter Ella are wonderful blessings that God has provided to Shawndra that I know she is so grateful for. God bless you. My heart and prayers are with you all. Take care and thank you so much for updating us even when I know it has to be tough to put words to what your days entail. Please know that we all check in often and care so very much. Leisa
Doug and Shawndra - I think of your family daily in thoughts and prayers. I pray that somehow, someway Shawndra can get home and that her pain is managed. Hospice will be such a wonderful help to all of you.
Our lord is so good and he will get your through this. I think printing the blog for Ella is wonderful. That way she can always know how strong and courageous her Mommy is and how much she loves her.
In prayer,
Kristen
Since Andrea gave me the link to this blog not a day has gone by that I don't check in on Shawndra.
I truly admire you and your family's strength and courage.
I wish I could do more than cry and pray.
Please know a long lost skating buddy and babysitter is wishing you peace and comfort.
Love always,
B. Baranczuk Brubeck
Doug,
Thanks for the update about Shawndra. I am praying that this procedure was successful today and that she is resting comfortably tonight. Please tell Shawndra that I miss her to. You are all in my thoughts every day.
Jennifer Teegarden
You are being covered in prayer and thought of often! Blessing and peace to you and your family!
I think of you everyday. I want you to be healed and come home to your family. Shawndra, you are so strong!!
I'm so thankful for all the updates, they are much appreciated!
Shawndra, Ella & Doug,
Our family continues to pray for all of you.
C.
Doug and Shawndra,
You are in my prayers, always and everyday. I will continue to pray for peace and comfort.
Michelle
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. May you find peace and comfort with the help of hospice at home. You all will light up their lives for sure. I hope Shawndra can get some more relief from the pain she is experiencing. How wonderful she has some truly alert times for all of you to share together. thinking of you, amy graver beers
As always, love and prayers and peace. May the many voices praying for you bring you a small measure of comfort.
The Will of God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you!
pray for pain relief and strength
Viola
Doug, Thank You for the update. Its weird to me how someone I have never even met, is on my mind & thought of & prayed for, many times a day. I feel like I know her personally, yet only know her through her Blog.
Shawndra has taught me many things about myself. She has taught me that I do cry for people I don't even know. I cried when I read that she told you to tell everyone she missed them. Please tell her that we miss her too.
Shawndra has taught me that humor gets a person through alot of things. Shawndra has taught me that whether you laugh or cry, facts are still facts, you have to handle them. You choose, spend your time happy or waste your time crying. She got alot of love & alot of life in with her upbeat and humorous attitude.
Shawndra has also taught me that I am selfish. I miss her Blogs, I wanted the chance to meet her. I pray that she gets better because I don't want her going anywhere, even though I KNOW that heaven is the most glorious place to be. The place that we all aspire to get to.
Shawndra has taught me to be a better person. To love more, to laugh more, to not take life too seriously.
To Shawndras loved ones..., It must be difficult to let go of something SO BEAUTIFUL.
You are all in my prayers. Please let us know when things change. We are praying so hard for her to be home. God Bless Shawndra, Love, Vickie from J.C.,Mo.
Shawndra and Doug,
What an inspiration you are to us all. I've been following your blog for a long time and am just amazed by your courage and strength. Ella is so lucky to have such wonderful parents. I pray you get to come home soon and enjoy your precious daughter. Peace to you all.
Kathy
Are there bracelets for Shawndra (Like the ones they have for Jennifer Ireland)? I would love to wear one!
Ami in K.C.
Peace be with you all, we love you!
Shawndra,Doug and Ella
You are always in our prayers and forever on our mind. I hope Shawndra can find peace and comfort during this life struggle.
-Kira and Matt Kirk
I hope the procedure Tuesday afternoon helped. We continue to think and pray for you all.
Beth Patterson
Lots of prayers are coming your way. I pray that God is wrapping His loving arms around all of you and will bring your peace and comfort. Tell Shawndra I miss her too.
God Bless all of you.
jb
I am praying very hard that the transition home with Shawndra goes well. You guys are in my thoughts and prayers daily!
Thinking of and praying for you, Shawndra, Doug, and Ella!
Mary in Louisiana
Shawndra and Doug -
All of you have been on my mind today. I continue to pray for peace and comfort for Shawndra and for strength for the family to endure the tasks of helping to care for her. I pray she gets to come home soon and for many good days so she can enjoy that sweet Ella and her family.
I do miss hearing from her. Her funny stories and sweet disposition. We all miss her as well. Thank you again Doug for taking time to update all of us.
Kristen
My husband and I are praying. We just keep praying. Jessie and Jerry Pullins
Everyday I am praying for Shawndra, Doug, Ella, your families. I am so sad for all of you... keep holding on to each other.
Donna
Shawndra, we miss you, too. Thinking about you all the time!
Shawndra,Doug and Ella,
I am still praying.....have been there and hoping ALL is safe and sound...sleep tight!!!
Sincerely,
Kitty
Today I learned about your illness. I am praying for you,Shawdra, and will continue to pray for all of you. My daughter,Brooke, skated with you and Andrea and we both loved your positive and happy spirit. Our family will have your comfort in our thoughts and prayers every day.
Doug
We are so grateful Shwandra has you as her beloved husband and father of her child.
We pray for her to be pain free, and keep on knocking at HIS door.
Take Good care of yourself, keep your Faith and Strength. Your two beautifull girls need you more and more to go on with your positive mind. Both want you to make yourself happy, rest, and be proud of yourself.
As the prayer chain goes on.
God bless you all.
Roswita
Im so sorry for the pain that Shawndra is going through, and what she has been through in the past year. God, please bless the nurses and give them the strength to help allieviate her pain somehow. Bless her and watch over her in this battle. Please watch over her as she fights this battle and let her and her family be surrounded in your love at this time.
Doug, Shawndra and Ella,
I wanted to come by this morning and let you know that Shawndra is on my heart, so I pray for her as I think about her which is all the time.
I can't say I don't know what ya'll are going through because I do. I have experienced this same journey in my life so I know how to pray for your family and for dear sweet Shawndra.
May the Lord wrap all of you in his arms and give Shawndra a peace and calm with no pain.
Blessings
Ella,
I a writing you a personal note, because I know this blog is going to mean so much to you in your life. Your Mommy and daddy love you so much,and this is just one of the ways your mother will be with you the rest of your life. I found this site by accident, I don't dont know your mom or your dad, but over the last few months I have gotten to know this incredible women, wife, friend and mother. I find myself thinking about your mom many, many times a day. Sometimes I laugh at something she said, sometimes she warms my heart, and sometimes I cry. Today I cried. Everytime I log on lately, I am hoping for a note from your mom personally, which means she is feeling strong enough to write, but unfortunately I know cancer too, too well, and I know that it is going to be difficult for her at this point. YOur moms strength, courage, and unselfish love for her family, is an inspiration to me. She has taught me to not sweat the small stuff and stop and smell the roses. God Bless you Ella, you are a wonderful, beautiful person because you are reflection of your incredible mother.
Barbara-Chicago
Doug,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Ella, and all who love and care for Shawndra. We hope and pray the doctors will be able to control Shawndra's pain and that she is able to go home soon.
Ella's mommy does love her all the time, and so does her daddy. Having the blog turned into a book is a wonderful idea.
We miss Shawndra, too, but are with her in spirit. Please tell her that I hope she feels the love and prayers being sent her way.
Praying for you all.
jg in ca
Dear Shawndra, Just wanted you to know that I was here, checking on you & praying for you.
I hope the pain procedure worked & you are not in such terrible pain so you don't have to take meds that knock you out. I'm sure everyone loves the days that they just get to sit & talk with you & see you smile.
You are such a fighter. Every post amazes me. No matter what this cancer throws at you, you get right back up, watching t.v., hanging out with people, living in the now..., I was thinking about you yesterday & how amazing you are to have been this ill & still take a family vacation to Colorado..., I mean, how strong is that? I get a cold & don't even want to travel 2 hours to K.C.!
This is what I mean, you have lived & continue to live such a full life. You must always have. Seriously, to become a nurse practitioner, get married, have a child & a home, all by the time you were 30 is AMAZING. Thats ALOT of schooling, all in itself. I KNOW your family is so proud of you & I know Ella is too. I know she always will be.
I hope you are living in the now, right now. Watching t.v. & spending time with your family and knowing how much you are loved & admired! God Bless You, Vickie in J.C.,Mo.
Shawndra,
Today I was given the gift to spend time with you I tried to massage the pain away. When you asked me to do your swollen legs I found myself really angry at what cancer has done to your body.On the radio tonight I heard the song "Held" by Natalie Grant the song took me back to when you were in the hospital in Oct. I was praying so hard for you and HE gave me the vision of HIM holding you.GOD never promises that we'll be saved from nightmares of this life but He does promise that when everything falls He'll be there to hold you. Love, Pamela
Shawndra,
I am always checking on you, but this is my first time to leave a comment. I want to let you know what a difference you have made in my life. I hope you know that you are truly such a special person. I am praying for strength and peace for you and your family.
To all who love Shawndra,
I have grown and developed into a better person through this contact with you...what a blessing you are to so very many...many like me who have never met you...yet, through prayer have learned to love you...Ella will always know you...she will know of the love you have for her for always...I was told many years ago from a loved one 'that no one is really gone from us until we let them go'..so you will be with all who love you for always...may God grant you peace and love...
` ~blessings~
Shawndra,
I have never met you, but have followed your journey from a distance through your dad. I am a nurse in the ICU at Liberty Hospital. In reading your blogs and hearing about you from your dad (who loves you to pieces), I get a feel for what a gentle yet corageous spirit you have. You have fought the battle and in the face of adversity, found the positive things that God has blessed you and your family with. We don't know His reasons, but he has called to you and you have answered. I pray that you may continue to live your days on Earth as God asks and that you will be REWARDED in His kingdom. You already know it, but you have the greatest gifts of love, hope, and faith surrounding you in your beautiful family and friends. I will continue to pray for your peace and want to thank you for calling to mind how fragile life is and reminding us of our blessings every day!!!
With love,
Bobbie Wright
I am praying for you and your family...... Every moment is precious with your loved ones..... I can tell you that Vitas Hospice provided 24 hour care for my family when we lost our loved one....they were there round the clock so that we could focus on our loved one during difficult times..... I pray for each moment to be wonderful.....
Shawndra & Family,
Like so many other bloggers, we have become your prayer warriors.
God is with all of you.
Dearest family of Shawndra,
I wanted to check on Shawndra again, hoping to see if anyone commented on if Shawndra's pain is under control or if she has been taken home.
Pleae know that I am thinking of her & you all, constantly. I will continue praying for her comfort & lots of time home with Ella & Doug.
If any fellow bloggers know an update, could you let us know, Im sure this is the last thing the family is looking at right now. God Bless you all, Vickie in J.C., Mo.
I too am still praying and checking in....I do not know what you are going thru BUT hoping you are ALL well...!!!
Sincerely,
Kitty
Dear Shawndra,
To my fellow ice skater and friend, it has been a long time since I have seen you and your family since our days at Foxhill Ice Arena. Weren't those the days? Skating was a wonderful time. I think of you often as well as Andrea! You inspired me so many time on the ice and you are still inspiring me. Your firece, creative, "never give up" nature shows through as you battle this evil beast called cancer. Please don't give up, Sharky! I am praying for you each and every day.
To Doug, you are wonderful, loving husband! I have learned so much from you.
To Miss Ella! Your mommy loves you very much. Don't stop smiling-- she is your angel today, tomorrow, and forever.
To the Beachamp family, please know I am sending a lot of love to you each day. I am praying for you to keep your strength and faith.
God Bless you all!
Love, Brooke
Dearest Turner Family,
Gosh, where should I start?! I have been catching up on all these blog posts for about 5 days now. I check it daily for updates. I had no idea of what has been going on and I want to apologize.
Tonight was the first time I read all these comments and am laying in bed in tears...not the first time they have come the last 5 days. I am not a "blogger" and am new to it until now. I have to say it is incredible how many anonymous friends you have out there, wow!
I, very fortunately, am not an anonymous commentor. I have known you, Doug for what 12-13 years now and have never met such an amazing, loving, caring, fun, funny, wonderful man like you. You are one of a kind. And, my heart goes out to you at this time.
I was blessed to witness your wedding vows and was SO happy you found "the one"! You, of all people i knew, was the one I was TRULY wished to be happy and have a family. And, your family IS beautiful, Doug!
I haven't had the honor of meeting little precious Ella but hope to someday. Ella, you're daddy is a wonderful, wonderful, wonderful man. And I know he isn't anything less of that in a dad. I see the love in his eyes for you. You are extremely lucky to have him as your dad. Same goes for all your grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins-I know that first hand. I am still envious of such the perfect family :)
Please know you are in my prayers daily and thinking about you always!
Love,
Alana Schleeter Dober
You all are in my daily thoughts and prayers. I hope and pray that they have found a way for Shawndra to enjoy this time with her friends and family and that she is feeling peace, that you all are feeling peace.
I know we all long for an update from anyone on how she is doing, I know it is hard to steel time away.
Bless you all!
Deb (LSMO)
In all the posts, the words that Bobbie Wright wrote said it all so graciously. What a gift she has for writing.
Peace & Love to all of you, today and always.
continuous prayers from MN.
stassen
Dear Shawndra, Doug & Ella, Thinking of you all today on this Super Bowl Sunday.
Remembering past Blog entries, you two seem to have liked the festivities of sporting events. I'm hoping you are at home together today, resting, enjoying each other with the game on in th backround!
God Bless you all, Vickie
Shawndra and Doug: I have had you guys in my thoughts and prayers everyday. Please know that I am thinking about you and your family and praying that you are more comfortable.
God Bless you!
Jill Watt
My prayers are with you ALWAYS!!
Keep up your fighting spirit!!
Someone please give us an update soon!! Hoping the pain is more manageable than the last time you posted!!
My prayers are always with you Shawndra. I hope you are pain is being well controlled and you are able to have sometime together with family. We miss your posts, I hope to get an update soon. We are praying for you.
CONTINUED PRAYER FROM YOUR ANGEL OF PRAYER IN KC, MO....HOPE THIS FINDS YOU ALL SHARING LOVE AND MAKING PRECIOUS MEMORIES....WITH CHRISTIAN LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP, YOUR ANGEL OF PRAYER IN KC,MO....JEN MILLER
Just checking on you this Monday morning. Hope you are resting & out of pain. God Bless, Vickie
dear shawndra and family,
through mutual drake friends, i learned today of your cancer and for the first time got an update on you, your life, your daughter. ella is beautiful and i can tell you have a wonderful loving husband. i am so sorry to know you have suffered a great deal and fought such a long battle with cancer.
i just had to write a comment here to let you know that your story brings me to tears, i wish you so much peace. i will keep you, doug and ella in my prayers. god bless all of you.
with love and heartfelt kindness,
sara (delaney) peternell
drake alpha phi 1997
Shawndra,
I pray that you and your family will feel God's peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Dear Shawndra,
I hope you are home with your family and pain free. I pray for you and your family daily. I miss reading your posts and your crazy "he, he, he"!!
With Love and Hope,
Wendy
Shawndra,
I am praying for God's peace to surround you and your family. Thinking of you everyday and sending lots of hugs!
Mary
As we all wait for an update...we continue to pray for comfort and peace for all who love her...comfort for Shawndra...so she can enjoy her times with those she loves...peace for all..and of course extra love for Ella...her little heart cannot know what all of this must mean...yet, I know God is holding her a little closer through this...much love from a mom in Illinois~ blessings~
Many prayers and thoughts for Shawndra and her family.
God Bless
Praying while we wait for an update, that Shawndra is getting to transition home, that she is still pain free & that all of her precious family & friends are with her as we speak. So Ella is getting to see her Mommy & so Doug is staying strong for his girls.
Its been a week now since we last heard from Doug & I pray that things are at least the same..., if anyone knows anything & can give us an update, please?
God Bless you all. My heart is especially heavy for you all today & Im not sure why today, even more than any other day? God Bless you all, praying & thinking of you alot today, Vickie in J.C., Mo.
I think of Shawndra daily. You are all in my thoughts and prayers! Amy Larkin Hopkins
I'm just checking in for an update. I'm hoping no news is good news. You're all in my thoughts.
...praying
I will post a little update that I know from Facebook: Shawndra made it home yesterday with Hospice. Hope they are doing well.
THANK YOU to the anonymous commentor who gave us the slight update that Shawndra made it home yesterday! YEAH, That is such WONDERFUL news to hear! Praise be to God!
I am still praying for peace and comfort for Shawndra and for the entire family. I pray the pain block worked and that she is able to spend some quality time with her family.
God Bless you all,
Kristen
I AM an anonymous blogger, but I do represent a person. We are going through the same thing with a family member - stage 4 colon cancer, very young, and has several small children. It is very hard to know what to say to you. This is the first time that I have written anything after reading your story for a long time now.
One of the children (a toddler)the other day said to my mother, "my daddy is going to die". We have no idea how to respond to that. We have no idea where he got that from either, because we are almost certain that nobody told him that.
All mom asked him was, "how does that make you feel?" and he said, "scared".
It's all very frightening in a way, even to me. It is like my heart just won't let my mind consider it, but - there it is. IT'S THERE and it doesn't seem to be going away. He isn't getting any better.
All I can say is that we get caught up in the doctors, the tests, the family, the kids, the dinner, the traveling back and forth to the hospital..... We start to think we must be strong, we must take care of things we need to take care of. We must be positive and think clearly. All of these things become a distraction for us. But we have these "moments" in time when it's quiet and it's real. And writing this is one of those times for me.
I know this blog is about SHAWNDRA, but I just wanted you to know that even though everyone is different - you are not alone in your suffering. I think of you often and we hope for shawndra.
Shawndra,
I pray you are home and comfortable. Keep the faith!
I am so glad you have made it home Shawndra, what a blessing. I am still praying for you all and hoping you have the peace needed to enjoy this time with your family.
Your faithful prayer angel :)
Deb (LSMO)
Shawndra,
I am so glad to know you are home. I have been praying for you everyday throughout the day. I pray that you are pain free and feeling God's love and peace as you spend time with your precious family.
-Nancy in NJ
ALPHA PHI PRAYER
Sisters in Alpha Phi, our Fraternity is founded on faith; faith in the nobility of character and faith in the goodness of God. We have banded ourselves together in affection and loyalty, in sacrifice and service. The ties that bind us transcend time and space, separation and sorrow.
Today we hold in grateful memory those who have left our alumnae circles and joined the Silent Chapter. Let us remember the heritage of sisterhood we have received from them and be ever mindful of our obligations to the ideals of enduring friendship and loving service which they have handed down to us.
Shawndra, in alpha phi, I am praying for you and your family.
YOU'RE HOME.
THAT'S FANTASTIC NEWS.
ANDREA'S E MAIL says IT'S BEEN 24 HOURS NOW YOU'RE BACK IN YOUR COZY ENVIRONMENT.
WE ALL HOPE YOU'RE MORE PAIN FREE AND ABLE TO REST AND REGAIN SOME STRENGTH TO E MAIL US ALL, LAUGH, PLAY AND HUG YOUR FAMILY BEING WITH ALL OF THEM.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
LOVE AND PRAYERS
Roswita
Wow, welcome home Shawndra. Let me know when I can bring that Vitamix blender (ala Smoothie King) over so you can have some tasty treats. I was texting Doug this weekend and don't want to bother you guys. Happy to come over when you are ready.
Hey, I didn't know you were Alpha Phi also! (I was at Arizona State)
You are in my prayers all of you. I hope you get some much needed rest and enjoy your little snuggle bug (and Doug). xo Adriane
Welcome home Shawndra! You will feel so much better sleeping in your own bed, surrounded by your loving family and your own belongings. You are so amazingly strong and resilient! I'm so very proud of you. Like my Jennifer, you are a true warrior fighting a battle that seems insurmountable, yet you handle it with grace, dignity, beauty and humor.
Always remember I'm asking Jennifer for her intercession in Heaven, and here on earth, I'm praying for you and your family constantly.
Prayers, peace and God's love,
Jan
So pleased to hear that prayers are being answered and Shawndra is home with her family in her comfortable, loving surroundings. My prayers continue daily for Shawndra and the entire families peace and comfort. May God be with you all. Leisa
Thinking of you all every day. I don’t know your family personally but I feel I have gotten to know you thru your site and what an absolute strong, beautiful, mother, wife and woman you are Shawndra. You have inspired and touched so very many...so many. I wonder if you have any idea just how much. Doug, you are an AMAZING man.
Sending much love and faith your way. -Martina
I'm so happy to hear you've made it home to be together with family and friends! I will continue to pray for all of you to have peace and comfort and enough energy and pain control to build more ever-lasting memories with precious Ella and Doug.
Thanks Roswita again for the update.
Terra
I'm so happy to hear you've made it home to be together with family and friends! I will continue to pray for all of you to have peace and comfort and enough energy and pain control to build more ever-lasting memories with precious Ella and Doug.
Thanks Roswita again for the update.
Terra
I'm so happy to hear you've made it home to be together with family and friends! I will continue to pray for all of you to have peace and comfort and enough energy and pain control to build more ever-lasting memories with precious Ella and Doug.
Thanks Roswita again for the update.
Terra
Sorry, my computer froze and then published my comment 3 times! EEK!
I have followed this blog for a very long time. Shawndra, you have touched my life more than you will know. I pray for you and your family. God Bless you all.
Shawndra and Family
I continue to pray for you daily - for peace and comfort, and quality time with your loved ones. You have had such a positive impact on so many peoples lives, and have even managed to save a few while sharing your story.
Jan (Comment from above)
I found Shawndra's website thorugh Jennifers. Please know that there is not a single day that I don't think of her. Always remembered, especially TODAY.
-Crystal
TO ALL
WE HOPE THAT THE VERY CHALLENGING DAYS, AS-- ANDREA DESCRIBED IT IN HER E MAIL-- ARE BEING HANDLED BY SHWANDRA IN A VERY POSITIVE WAY.
I UNDERSTOOD FROM ANDREA'S E MAIL OUR DEAREST SHWANDRA IS--- AT HOME,-- IN A HOSPITAL BED,-- HOOCKED UP TO TUBES, MOSTLY RESTING AND ASLEEP.
She did have her favorite puddin, though!
May God be with you and all your family in this unseasy time. I pray you all keep up your strength and joy in LIfe as you 've been an example to so many of us , and accept the Lord's will , ASK, Knock at HIS door, to have Shawndra pain free.
Much Love,
Roswita
Thank you Roswita for the update. Praise God that Shawndra is home and surrounded by all of those who love her. I will continue to pray for peace and comfort for all of the family. Shawndra, you have touched my life with this blog, and I want to thank you for that.
Continuing to pray,
jb
Shawndra,
I don't know you or your family, but have been praying for you as a friend of yours is in my Bible study small group. May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him. He is your personl bravery and invincible army!!
Dear Shawndra, I love you (and have never met you). Joyce
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