Welcome to A Gravel Road Journey!

NOT SO LONG AGO, Dad RE-named his art studio, "A Gravel Road Studio", and so this seemed an appropiate title for his blog.

Why 'Gravel Road'? As Dad explains, "Gravel roads take us off life's busy highway and force us to slow down. When we slow down we have time - time to notice the things around us; the things that matter the most; life and breath, the flowers and the trees. Gravel roads allow us to taste the dust of our travel and give us time to breathe."

Since his studio is a place of quiet reflection and contemplation, we wanted to create a space for family and friends to do the same as we journey together down this new and unknown path. We also wish to keep family and friends updated on his diagnoses and treatment, so please check in often for updates and new information.

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Team Planning Meeting

Hello again,

Got a phone call from Mom this afternoon, and they have word on the team planning meeting. It will be this Friday, Sept. 19th. She didn't mention a time. But the meeting will include Mom and Dad, the neurosurgeon, a social worker, and a whole host of other hospital staff. They'll go over treatment details and the pathology report from Dad's biopsy. Once this meeting is done, they will be able to start treatments, but I don't think they will start over the weekend, so I think Monday will be Dad's first day of radiation. I'm sure we'll know more after Friday's meeting.

9 comments:

Anonymous said...

Thank you Dana for keeping us all informed.You are doing a great job, Give our love to everyone there and see you this weekend love Uncle Harry and Aunt Maryanne

Anonymous said...

Hey babe. You're doing a tough jobof staying strong and keeping everyone in the loop. Been thinking of all of you and keep hoping for the best! Love you all! Shannon

Anonymous said...

Me and my family are all praying for complete healing for Gerald and peace and strenght through this time - Darian

Anonymous said...

Hey Gerald & Arlis,
It is good to hear that things are moving forward. Thinking back on this meeting - it is a wonderful opportunity for you to voice your wishes. It is difficult to schedule these co-ordinated meetings with all the key players will be present. If you feel able, this is the time for you to express your thoughts on pain management, access to information to family members (who can call for information) and, should your situation change during treatment, how much and what kind of treatment/interventions would you want. I know there is a lot to think about.
This meeting is also a really good time to understand the linkages within the system. Who do you call when?
Elaine felt very respected and felt listened to during the meeting.
Praying for you as you meet.
Karen and Dave Taylor

Anonymous said...

Thanks Dana for doing such an awesome job. Gerald and Arlis, we pray the Lord will give you all you need during this trying time. Love you all, Annette and Dan

karri folkerts said...

Thankyou Dana for all your day to day updates on what's happening with U Gerald. Give a big hug to U.Gerald and A.Arlis. You are constantly in our thoughts and prayers. We wish you God's strength and healing mercies for your whole family during this time of need. Love Jake and Karri and kids

skej said...

Hi to all,
Just wanted to check in to see if you or your family need anything?
Dana, I ditto everything said you are a pillar of strength and a much appreciated source of information to those that are thinking and praying for your family to be helped through this challenging time.
Gerald and Arlis my prayers are with you daily and we will be there in spirit when you meet with a team. That is such a strong word, Team. It implies you are not alone and you don't have to deal with this alone not only do you have a professional and skilled group of oncology experts you also have the invisible team of your family and friends who will be right beside you throughout. God Bless.

Miranda said...

you guys are in our prayers today sweety!

Anonymous said...

gerald responds:
Thanks to God for providing us with His continued faithfulness. we trust and prau that that will copntinue in the days to come

We continue to covet the prayers of Gopd's people.