I took a short break from blogging after receiving the disheartening news that my mom was hospitalized due to acute multiple myeloma, a form of bone-marrow cancer. I dropped everything and flew across the world to be with her and my dad. While I was there, my dad fell and broke his hip. It was an unimaginable storm of events that took us all by surprise.
It’s hard to create a new normal after your world has been turned upside down, but my parents are strong and resilient. They are both home and coping. As stoic as ever, my mom remains calm and optimistic, and my dad is in good spirits. I am back in Papua, but a day doesn’t go by that I don’t think about them.
7693 Miles from Home 
Oh Dear Kristie,
My heart aches for you to be so far away. I send many prayers and blessings to all.
Love,
Claire
Thanks so much for your prayers and blessings. We are so excited for Cameron, and sending good wishes your way for the big day! We are disappointed that we can’t be there, but we’re looking forward to seeing all the fabulous pictures on FB!
Our thoughts are with you and your parents. I can’t imagine how difficult that can be when you’re separated by such a great distance.
Thanks for thinking of us! My parents are getting stronger every day, so that makes it easier being so far away. Hope all is well there!
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Were your Mother’s test conclusive? bone marrow transplant or (hopefully) false alarm? xo…
Hey Jenn! So good to hear from you! Yes, the initial tests were conclusive, and she has started chemotherapy. She is waiting to get the results from a bone-marrow biopsy and x-rays to see if further treatment is necessary. How are you guys doing? Have you gone on your Disney vacation yet?
Sorry to hear of your Mom’s and Dad’s problems. I ‘ll keep them in my mind Kriste. And you too. It’s always hard when our loved ones become ill or handicapped. And to be so far away makes it even more so. My heart goes out to you. Please keep me informed about their progress.
I’m going to Ca Sunday and will be gone until August to be with my family. Doing OK but still miss my Jeannie everyday. It isn’t getting easier with time so far.
Give my best to your family,
Don
Sent from my iPad Don Doody 9795 E. Forgotten Hills Dr. Scottsdale, AZ 85262 480-585-0937 Cell – 480-213-7541 doodioni@aol.com
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I’m excited that you are going to spend the summer with your family. It’ll be nice for you to get away from the Arizona heat and enjoy some time on those beautiful California golf courses. Have a great vacation!!
Kristie,
My thoughts are with you. Oh, yes , I know how hard this is for you and your family. I am leaving for Michigan for about a month to spend some time with my family. I will constantly have positive thoughts for you and wish the best for your mom and dad. Take care of yourself and say hello to Chris and the girls.
Love ya!
Donna Shelley
It sounds like you’re going to have a great summer in Michigan! We think about you all the time, too. It’s funny how often you and Mike come up in our conversations (you have heaven’s best angel looking over you)! We’ll catch up when you get back from vacation! Love you, too!
Kriste, Sorry to hear about your mom and dads situations. I’m glad you were able to be there to help them. I’m sure they loved having you there. YOU have always been very thoughtful. Send them my wish for a correct and speedy recovery.Nothing but heads up.Love Cheri.
Hi Cheri! Thanks so much for your thoughtfulness! I, too, am glad that I was able to be there. I hope all is well in your neck of the woods! Keep in touch! Love you back!