Suzy's Blog

Suzy Van Sickle Scholarship Website

2011-03-21T16:15:00.004-07:00

Dear Friends and Family,

We are working on a new website for the Suzy Van Sickle Scholarship, now available to view at www.svscholarship.org.

We have received a matching grant of $25,000, so now is a great time to make a donation!

Thank you for your continued support,

The Van Sickle Family

A Tribute to Our Mom

2010-08-31T19:22:00.002-07:00

Thank you to all of our mom's and our family and friends who joined us to celebrate mom's life with us on Saturday, August 28 at Desert Botanical Gardens in Phoenix, Arizona. It was a pleasure to see all of you in such a beautiful setting.

I wanted to share my tribute to our mom with everyone who was unable to attend in person. We invite all of you to leave comments on this blog to share any of your own stories about our mom.

~~~~~~

I am so pleased to see so many of our mom’s friends and family here today. Thank you for coming to celebrate our mom’s life. I want to share with you my memories of Suzy as our mom.

My friends used to call our mom “Super Mom,” and it was the perfect nickname for her. Mom made things happen. She was everywhere, all the time, whenever any of us needed her. And that never changed, even as we grew older and moved away from Arizona.
As children, mom indulged us in every activity where we showed even the slightest interest. She encouraged David to take up the drums, and let him practice in the house at all hours of day and night. Rob was the devoted swimmer, and mom would wake up impossibly early to get him to practice and swim meets all over town. I discovered art, and mom was always finding new art supplies for me and even framed a few of my pieces to inspire me to continue painting. And she drove Matt to the middle of the desert on hot summer days to launch massive rockets into the sky—and then drove across town to retrieve the rockets.

Our mom was a true Arcadia mom and a mother to many. Growing up, our house was where all of our friends came to jump on our trampoline, eat our red vines, swim in our pool—or maybe jump off the roof into the pool, or jump off the roof onto the trampoline. They also came to talk with our mom. Our mom made everyone in the neighborhood feel welcome at our home, and she seemed to be the happiest when her house was full of our friends for afternoon pool parties that inevitably turned into slumber parties.

Mom’s warmth and open heart endeared her to our childhood friends, and she cherished them as if they were her own children. She was a confidant for many, to the point where, if anyone ever wandered away from a slumber party, they could usually be found in the kitchen talking with mom, which was where they had been for the past hour.
As a daughter, I had a special relationship with my mom that flourished through a number of mother and daughter activities. Though I would have rather been playing soccer or swimming—or, really, doing anything that my brothers were doing—my mom made sure we had mother/daughter time together starting with Brownies and Girl Scouts, where mom was, of course, always our troop leader. When I was older, we joined National Charity League and volunteered together all over the Valley, delivering meals to older adults, handing out medals at the Special Olympics, and starting an afterschool program for children living at UMOM.

Watching my mom reach out to every woman and child she met with unconditional love, I came to understand my mom’s passion and commitment for supporting and strengthening her community. Our shared experiences volunteering together are what inspired me to build my career working in nonprofits and philanthropy. Now, every day that I go to work, I think about my mom and thank her for helping me find my passion in my career.

As an adult, I grew exceptionally close to my mom. We shared so much together, including our birthdays. My mom was my best friend. When mom came to visit us in New York, I brought her with me everywhere. She would visit me at work so often that my colleagues dubbed her the Citi Foundation’s “official mascot.” Mom was a cheerleader for everyone she ever knew, and my work colleagues were no exception. She would walk around the office and talk with each of my colleagues, offering them the same support and encouragement she showed each of us as her children.

Mom was always eager to visit when we were having parties because she wanted to see all of our friends and get caught up on their lives; she knew all of their names and where they worked, and she loved their children as if they were her own grandchildren. And our friends were just as eager to spend time catching up with our mom.

In the last few years, my mom and I took the opportunity to travel together around the world. We spent time in London and Barcelona seeing shows, admiring Gaudi’s architecture, eating delicious Catalan food, and shopping. But, our real adventure occurred when we traveled to South Africa for two weeks together. We toured most of the country, spending four days on safari in Kruger National Park feeling like children every time the elephants appeared. I’ll never forget how mom’s face lit up when the rhinos sauntered up to our jeep, or the smile she had while watching the penguins on Boulders Beach. It was an unforgettable experience to be able to share all of this with my mom.

My husband and I also took mom sailing in the Caribbean to share our favorite islands with her. It took awhile for mom to get used to living on a boat. She kept asking us, “What can I do?” and we kept saying, “Nothing. That’s the whole point. Just sit back, grab a book, and enjoy the warm sun and the calm of the ocean.” Mom was so used to always being in charge and having everyone depend on her; but, not knowing how to run the boat meant she had to let go. And, when she finally did, about a week into the trip and just a few days before we were headed back home, and it was so pleasing to watch her slowly relax and just enjoying the moments when we were sailing, walking on the beach, and or floating in the cool water.

Mom had the most amazing and infectious smile. Her smile truly lit up a room and made people gravitate toward her throughout her entire life. Her smile was in her eyes, which would squint and glisten when she was really happy or excited, and in her rosy cheeks, which would glow an even brighter pink as her smile spread across her face. When she smiled, no one could be sad. And when she laughed so hard that she cried, you knew that she was really truly happy. For me, there was nothing better than to look across a room and see my mom with that smile on her face. The memory of her smile is one thing I will always carry with me.

But, above all else, our mom knew the value of family and she warmly welcomed each of our spouses as her own children. She often told us how proud of us she was for becoming such loving and caring people, but she was most proud of us for finding partners who would be our best friends and encourage us to pursue our dreams as she had always done.

My mom and I both said that we were lucky to have each other. She was the most amazing mom a woman could ever have, and she told me how lucky she was to have me as her daughter. Being a mom was her most important role in life, and she went above and beyond any call of duty. I can only hope that one day I can be the mom to my children that she was to my brothers and me.

As tragic as it is to lose our amazing mother too soon, she has influenced all of us in ways we are only beginning to know, and there are pieces of our mom that will live on in each of us. David shares her sense of humor; Rob shares her ability to connect with people; I share her sense of community and goodwill; and Matt shares her unending kindness and compassion. Nothing can replace the space in our lives that was filled by our mom’s love, which only she was the right shape to fit, but our shared love for our mom will forever keep us united as siblings.

-Rebecca Van Sickle

Remembering Oma

2010-08-29T18:41:00.001-07:00

Suzy's Memorial

2010-08-29T18:28:00.003-07:00

College and Career Center Dedication

2010-08-27T17:51:00.000-07:00

Memorial Service: August 28th, 6:00 PM

2010-08-09T07:05:00.003-07:00

Dear Friends and Family,

Please accept this invitation to join us to celebrate the life of Suzanne Van Sickle on August 28th, 6:00 PM, at the Desert Botanical Garden. We would like to encourage all of you who knew and loved Suzy to attend, along with your families. Refreshments and hors d'oeuvres will be served.

There will also be a dedication ceremony at the Arcadia High School College and Career Center on Friday, August 27th at 3:00 PM. This event is open to the public and all are welcome to attend.

We look forward to seeing you all later this month to remember our mom together.

The Van Sickles

Thank You, Dear Friends

2010-07-26T18:29:00.004-07:00

We wanted to share our most heartfelt thank yous to all of our friends and our mom's friends who have written us such loving cards and e-mails over the past two months. It has been an incredibly difficult time for all of us as we try to move on with our lives without the abundant enthusiasm and encouragement that our mom provided for each us.

We are also overwhelmed by the incredible generosity that so many of you have shown through your contributions to the scholarship fund we established at Arcadia High School where mom worked for the past 13 years. We owe each one of you a note of gratitude, and we hope to find some time in the next month to be able to write these.

Your kindness and emotional support means so much to us and helps us remember how loved and cherished our mom was by her dear friends. We look forward to seeing many of you at Desert Botanical Gardens on August 28th when we can celebrate our mom's life together.

Mom in South Africa

2010-06-19T14:38:00.002-07:00

Wanted to share some photos of our mom from our trip to South Africa in November 2008.

Love you, mom. Miss you lots.

Obituary

2010-06-10T07:06:00.003-07:00

Here is a link to Mom's obituary, which appeared in the Arizona Republic today. We look forward to seeing all of you in August.

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/azcentral/obituary.aspx?n=suzanne-vansickle&pid=143466808

Honoring our Mom

2010-06-03T13:43:00.004-07:00

In lieu of flowers and gifts, please send donations to:

Arcadia High School
College and Career Center
4703 E. Indian School Road
Phoenix, AZ 85018

Checks should be made out to "Arcadia PTO/Titan Teacher Fund" and have "Suzy Van Sickle Scholarship" on the memo line. The Arcadia PTO is a non-profit organization and your donation is tax-deductible.

These contributions will be combined with additional funds to establish a scholarship to support Arcadia High School students attend the college of their choice. We will determine more specific details for the scholarship in the coming months.

Thank you all for your continued love and support.

Suzanne G. Van Sickle: March 12, 1942 - June 3, 2010

2010-06-03T05:14:00.006-07:00

Suzanne Van Sickle passed away peacefully in her sleep in the early morning hours on June 3, 2010. Suzanne, called Suzy, Mom, and Oma by those who knew and loved her, had battled cancer for more than nine years, while at the same time living her life, loving her family, and serving as a college counselor to countless Arcadia High School students.
Mom was a beloved member of the old Arcadia community, living here for more than 30 years, at a time when citrus orchards and ranch style houses lined the streets. Our mom was a truly special woman, embodying grace, beauty, love, and compassion. We will be eternally proud to call her our mother; she was one of a kind.

The family plans to take a couple months to mourn our loss before holding a service, and we will inform you all well in advance of our plans. We ask that instead of flowers or gifts, please send a donation to Arcadia High School’s Titan Teacher Fund in Suzy’s name. The family is setting up a scholarship in her name and appreciates your contributions to continuing her legacy of supporting education and compassion.

Finally, we would like to thank you for your support over the past month. Your encouragement allowed us to be together during a very important time in our lives.

Backyard Baby Quail

2010-06-02T12:52:00.008-07:00

We were delighted to see this baby quail in Oma's backyard yesterday and even happier that it is still here with us today. It cannot fly yet, though it is adorable when it tries, so it seems like it is less than a week old.

Mom and Arcadia High School

2010-06-01T19:31:00.002-07:00

Just a small update to celebrate mom's retirement from Arcadia High School. We received this nice article from Kathy Crowe, mom's partner in crime at Arcadia's College and Career Center. It celebrates their amazing contributions to the community. We're so proud of our mom!

(Click article for larger version)

Memorial Day Update

2010-05-31T20:59:00.008-07:00

Mom had a fairly sleepy day today, which was probably a wise decision given the extreme heat that arrived in Phoenix. Over the weekend, we watched the Suns fall to the Lakers, had several family meals together, and welcomed a new quail family to the backyard. We came across a fun video of Mom (Oma) today with her grandkids, Henry and Charlie, and thought we'd share it with all of you. Thank you all for the lovely emails and cards that came in over the weekend. Safe and happy Memorial Day to all!

Friday

2010-05-28T14:46:00.003-07:00

Mom woke up with a little appetite today, which was nice, so Rob got a poached egg going while Becky made some blueberry yogurt. After that, we sat outside with her in the backyard and she took a long nap in the warm shade. She shook her head when we told her about the devastating Suns loss last night (we still can't believe it). The whole family will be together through the weekend which will be quite nice.

Home Hospice

2010-05-25T17:49:00.002-07:00

Today, mom arrived home to begin in-home hospice care. When we asked if she knew where she was, she opened her eyes, smiled and said "home". It's so nice to have her here with us and we think she feels more comfortable. We'd like to thank you all again for you cards, thoughts, and prayers. Mom is certainly well-loved by all who know her.

Sunday Update

2010-05-23T14:57:00.002-07:00

Mom continues to rest comfortably at the hospice center. The staff is extremely nice and we all get to sit out on her private patio during the cooler hours. Tonight, we are looking forward to watching the Suns game together, which hopefully will turn out better than the past two. She didn't sleep well last night, so hopefully watching the Suns hustle will get her ready for some good sleep. We continue to read mom your comments and cards when she is awake and alert and she really appreciates all of your well wishes and support.

Coyote

2010-05-21T07:50:00.002-07:00

We spotted this guy on our way out of the Mayo probably looking for the little prairie dog in the previous pictures.

Wildlife

2010-05-20T16:27:00.003-07:00

Suzy has a gorgeous room right now. She has a patio that looks out over the desert with a view of distant Camelback Mountain. Sitting on the patio the wildlife comes right up to check out the flowers and the crumbs dropped by the visitors. Here's a few shots I was able to catch while sitting on the patio the other morning.

Tuesday

2010-05-18T09:39:00.002-07:00

We met with the doctors yesterday and they told us that in mom's current condition she can not tolerate any more chemotherapy. Unfortunately, that means mom is transitioning to hospice care later today. There's not much more to write except to say thank you for your continued support for our family. Please know that our mom is resting comfortably. We continue to start each day as a new day and hold hope for what tomorrow could bring.

Resting

2010-05-14T17:16:00.002-07:00

Today was a day of rest for mom, who is recovering from her recent operation. The radiation effects have started and she is experiencing extreme fatigue. She wakes up every so often to give us a big smile (and sometimes a well-earned sigh). She might be discharged over the weekend, so we have set up home health to assist us at the house. Stay tuned for more updates and know that Suzy appreciates all of your thoughts and notes.

Ommaya Reservoir

2010-05-13T19:33:00.002-07:00

Today, Mom had an ommaya reservoir installed in her head. The ommaya is essentially a catheter system that will allow the doctors to administer chemotherapy directly into her cerebral spinal fluid. She already had her first dose immediately following the surgery. She's resting now and will hopefully sleep well tonight. Thank you all for your continued support and we will provide another update tomorrow.

bad cactus band

2010-05-11T16:28:00.001-07:00

Band at Rob and Liz's wedding

Wedding vows at the Mayo

2010-05-11T15:32:00.006-07:00

The Gang's All Here

2010-05-08T10:56:00.005-07:00

Today, Suzy woke up feeling a little better than yesterday. "Well, I guess that's good," she said. It's actually great. She has made small improvements over the past two days, which is encouraging. Her doctor was very surprised to hear mom ask what she was doing for mother's day tomorrow. Two of her good friends from school stopped by last night to chat with her (thank you so much Kathy and Mary) and she said they had a really nice visit. Even better when you get to watch the Suns crush the Spurs. Here's a nice picture of the whole gang taken by mom's amazing neurologist (Dr. Porter). Suzy sends her thanks to everyone for their thoughts, prayers, emails, and cards. This morning, we got to read through quite a few of them, as well as your comments on the blog.

Luxury suite at Mayo (they must really love her!)

Continuing the Fight

2010-05-06T09:01:00.002-07:00

A couple days ago, mom started to feel a little too tired and weak, which worried all of us, so we ended up taking her back to Mayo to help get keep her hydrated and manage the pain. She's doing a little better there and her clarity has improved somewhat. The current plan is still to go forward with the treatment, as it has the potential to improve her pain and give her more quality time with her friends and family. She continues radiation treatments this week and then will begin intrathecal chemotherapy next week. We have been reading her all of your cards and emails when she is feeling better. More family continues to arrive and she is surrounded by love. We will continue to keep you updated.

Back Yard

2010-05-02T20:55:00.000-07:00

Joan and Becky getting Suzy's back yard ready for visitors next weekend. Everyone has helped plant flowers in the yard this winter and spring and Suzy's yard is looking fantastic.

The family

2010-04-30T19:46:00.000-07:00

Wanted to let everyone know that Suzy is doing well and happy to have the whole family in town. She will be starting another round of treatments soon and needs to focus on staying well, so please log in here for updates rather than calling. She does not have the energy to return all your phone calls but apreciates the emailed or posted comments.

2010-04-14T21:19:00.006-07:00

This week I got myself a new car. It's the first time since 1998, so I thought it was time. My old car was not acting very safe, so my kids all decided that Suzy should lease a new car. And I did - a new Corolla, silver, with a moonroof. It's very nice and it drives like a dream. I am very excited!

I have been somewhat upset the last week as I am not getting better faster. I did talk with the doctor today and she told me to be patient - it will take some time. Matt leaves tomorrow and I shall be by myself. So I shall have to get better.

Matt and I visited the Botanical Gardens earlier this week and the cactus and surrounding plants were so beautiful. We have been trying to do several errands each day to improve my strength.

Love,

Suzy

One from the youngest son

2010-04-09T18:07:00.007-07:00

Today, we were awoken by the nice folks at Scottsdale Heating and Cooling, who arrived to install a new air conditioner in preparation for the hot summer. What an ordeal! Henry and Charlie would have loved to see this happen:

After a few hours of banging and installation, we headed out to our favorite neighborhood hospital- the Mayo Clinic- for a bone scan and check up. We are still awaiting the results, but we expect good things. I got to see the technetium 99 in action after all of these years seeing it made in Vietnam and other far off places. Then mom laid down on the $500,000 machine for a little photo shoot.

After Mayo, we went to pick out mom's new car- hooray! It has only taken a fews years of bugging her to make her part with her 1998 Corolla. Suzy is now the proud driver of a 2010 Corolla, just like the one below, only silver.

Notice the sweet moon/sun roof. We pick up the new beauty on Monday afternoon from Himes Leasing in Phoenix. And finally, a parting shot in homage to our water cooler of 33 long years.

Ice cold until the end.

On the Mend

2010-04-08T11:50:00.004-07:00

Easter was wonderful! David, Lolly and Henry and Charlie were here to not only take care of me, but to make Easter so fun. We had a giant Easter egg hunt, went swimming and into the hot pool (as Charlie calls it) hiking, bought new bikes so the boys could ride while they are here, went hiking, practicing baseball and many other things in addition to our time at the Mayo Clinic - we spent tons of time there, but it is helping me to get better. I did watch most of the time.

Rob was here prior to Easter to help me (thank heavens) and Matt is here now to help me with errands, preparing food, reminding me of things I need to do, cleaning up the kitchen, and trying to work from here. We are in the process of leasing a new car - a corolla - I guess after seeing it and hearing it and driving my old car, all the boys decided that a new car is in order. My sweet car is from 1998, so maybe it is time.

I had a wonderful visit to the east coast before this darn infection set in and being in the New York hospital was quite an experience. Finally getting back to Phoenix we all began to see the Mayo Clinic quite often and then I had surgery last Friday. But each day brings new challenges and a little cleaner head (I could not reach my arms out above my elbows for about a week which was very challenging for me)

So now I am taking it one day at a time - which is not easy for me, as those of you who know me. But I really have no choice.
Thank you for all of your calls, flowers, good wishes and this wonderful weather. I plan to continue to get better - I don't think I have ever felt so very bad as with this streph infection, but I guess I didn't know that my body is always in such a precarious state.

Again, thank you, sorry about my blog, but I did not feel very much like writing. So Matt is helping me to post this.

Here's a photo Henry with his favorite Bakugan at the train park:

And here's Charlie with his favorite Oma:

Love, Suzy

Wednesday night, March 3, 2010

2010-03-03T21:13:00.002-07:00

Tomorrow early morning I am leaving Phoenix to head to the east coast to see Matt and Anna in Washington, DC - then to Boston to see Rob and Liz - and then on to New York City to see Rebecca and Mark where Rebecca and I shall share our birthdays together on March 12, 2010. Good ole' Amtrak.

I am so looking forward to this trip and hopefully it will not be too cold or too wet on the east coast for me, although I have heard they expect a new storm. Hopefully not. We all have lots of things planned for me for the next ten days and I intend to take advantage of each and every day. I shall send you pictures upon my return.

And David and Lolly and the boys are planning to come to Scottsdale to spend Easter week with me. We are all very excited - lots of hiking and bike riding and with this wonderful weather, it will be fabulous!

Everyone - take care - and thank you to all of you

Love, Suzy

Henry's 6th birthday invite - this is so GREAT -

2010-02-18T18:15:00.002-07:00

Henry was six years old on the 6th of February, 2010. Never again 6 on the 6th!

2010-02-17T23:08:00.001-07:00

2010-02-17T23:00:00.000-07:00

February 18, 2010

2010-02-17T22:22:00.002-07:00

Wow, the year is cruising past so very fast....and I am so very much behind!

I had the most wonderful visit with Lolly, David and my two favorite boys - Henry and Charlie. I was able to go with Henry to his school, Wingra, for lunch on Friday. And then I was able to be there for his sixth birthday, which was very special for me!
Everyone is his class was invited along with his other friends and we all went to the indoor pool to swim and have a wonderful birthday celebration. He and Charlie enjoyed every minute...as did I as well.

Madison WI was cold compared to Phoenix, but I managed to be warm enough. We had a giant snow storm one day, tons of snow, but Charlie and I played in the snow for a fun time. The boys LOVE the snow and are very good skiers as are Mom and Dad!

I am back in Phoenix now working as best as I can at Arcadia and helping David with his asthma inhaler study project. He has gotten a nice grant funded by the Centers for Disease Control to study rural asthma patients with his newly created GPS inhaler. This is a very exciting study to better understand asthma in rural areas and to learn more about the relationship of rural environmental exposures and asthma attacks.

I head to the east coast in early March to see Matt and Anna in DC, then to Boston to see Liz and Rob, and then to New York to see Rebecca and Mark where Becky and I shall share our birthday celebrations! What a great trip - needless to say I am very excited! The AmTrak train makes it so easy to get from one city to another! And I shall lots of news to report when I return.

I continue to deal with the chemotherapy each and every day, and I must admit some days I feel better than others. But it is great to plan ahead to being away from Phoenix to see my wonderful children whom I email each and every day! Email is the BEST!

Please do take care - and thank you for your notes to me.

Suzy

Tuesday, February 2nd

2010-02-02T19:50:00.003-07:00

Tonight I am packing to get ready for my first big trip to Oregon, Wisconsin. Henry, who is currently five and is "tired of being five" will soon be SIX years old. This is so hard for me to believe! But his birthday is February 6th and he will be SIX.

I am packing all of my winter clothes as I know it will be cold there - lots of snow I am reminded - and "Bring your boots."
It will be wonderful to see my little ones once again and to be with them to see all of their friends and go to lunch at their schools.

Everyone is back to their jobs, responsibilities, etc. Rob and Liz are planning their upcoming wedding and party this summer. Matthew is back from his trip to Egypt, Oman, etc., camels and pyramids. He had a great time and is planning to head to Vienna this next week for a seven day trip. He and Anna are based in DC currently with Jazz enjoying the snow. David and Lolly and the boys I will see very soon to catch up on all of their activities - I know they went skiing this last past weekend. And Rebecca is currently at Cornell University and then on to Canada for her school for two weeks...while trying to keep up with her work at Atlantic in New York. Mark is in the city working at Columbia Presbyterian trying to keep everything somewhat normal.

I am very excited for my trip tomorrow. It will be the first time I have been out of Phoenix since last summer. I hope I can handle the cold weather, although it is suppose to be colder here tomorrow. I will have lots of pictures to send to you all. Thank you for reading my blog - with working it seems like I never have enough time.

Everyone take care - and thank you for sending your thoughts this way. You are very important to me! Suzy

Already January, 2010

2010-01-21T21:07:00.008-07:00

Hi everyone,

It is already January and I am so late in my posting. My friend, Margot, called today from DC to make sure I was all right. I don't know where the time goes, but it must go!
Anyway, here I am - finally!

Much has happened -I had a brain scan (MRI) last week and the report came back that my head is clear without cancer! And my body from the neck down is also clear, so right now I am "No Evidence of Disease," although some days I do not feel very well. I have decided to take a little time off from the chemo to go to Henry's birthday (he is 6 years old on the 6th of February - "he's tired of being 5 he says) so I am heading to the snow and cold weather in Oregon, WI.

We had the most wonderful Christmas that any family could ever have with everyone here. It was very special for me. Kathy, my dearest friend, allowed me to take time off from work to be with my family and it was exceptionally important for me. My children are incredible and I loved having Henry and Charlie with me. We went to the Botanical Gardens where Matt had arranged for a photographer to take photos of all of us - we had a party one evening when many of my children's friends and their parents could stop by - we attended the Suns game - saw the Suns beat the Lakers - rode the Light Rail - had a day at the Sanctuary Spa, went to Grimaldi's for pizza, my sister, Joanne, and her family (Jay and Nathan) came to see us, Mark's parents (Joan and Paul) came as well. We had the BEST Christmas dinner here at my place with everyone - David and Lolly and the boys and others went hiking, went swimming and into the hot tub, bicycling, Becky and Anna went paddleboarding and Rob and Liz became engaged on December 30, 2009. New Year's eve was spent here at my house with everyone enjoying each other and their short time together. It never seems like long enough!!!

Currently, Rebecca and Mark are back in New York, (Becky is working on her MBA and Mark is working at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital). David and Lolly (David is working on his asthma project and Lolly is working on her new stories and keeping everyone going) and the boys are back in Wisconsin at their schools. Rob (the Polka Dog bakery man) and Liz (a Chelsea middle school counselor) are back in Boston enjoying being engaged. Matt (Department of Energy) and Anna (also engaged) - Anna is looking forward to attending an exciting program at the UC, Santa Cruz in April - they are both back in Washington, DC. Matt and Anna moved all of their things to DC about a week ago along with Jazz, their dog. Joan and Paul are back in Incline Village, and my sister and her family are back in Rancho Santa Fe.

I am trying to be back to work, taking each day as it comes along. The Christmas time truly was a time to be thankful and I loved every single minute of every single day. Thank you to Lolly and David, Henry and Charlie, Liz and Rob, Rebecca and Mark, and Anna and Matt. You are the dearest ones in the whole world and I love all of you.

Mom

December 3, 2009

2009-12-03T21:04:00.003-07:00

Wow - the year is fast coming to an end and I am behind, to say the least. We had a wonderful Thanksgiving with all of the delicious food, thanks to Rob, Matt, Liz and Anna. It was terrific - and I did not do anything! What a lovely weekend!

And now I am looking toward Christmas and EVERYONE (David, Lolly, Henry and Charlie, Rebecca, Mark, Rob, Liz, Matt, Anna) will be home. It was be the most lovely Christmas and we are expecting Santa Claus to pay us a visit. Henry and Charlie have written a letter telling Santa that they will be here in Scottsdale and not in Madison, although they have expressed to Santa that he can leave presents at both places. It's ok with them. We are going to have an open house on December 26th to say hi to everyone at my condo's club house. So if you can come, we would love to see you - there will be lots of food and drinks! It all starts at 4:30 p.m.

During the Thanksgiving weekend, Matt decided to shave what hair I still had off of my head, so now I am bald, as you can see. I must say it's a little cold without a hat these mornings. Now I have to find a wig that fits and looks good. I tried on a blond wig, but it just didn't seen to be me!

I am currently having chemotherapy (abraxane) once a week along with potassium shots and neuprogen shots to get my white blood cells up to speed. It does wear on me somewhat, but I am trying my best to go to school - not sure I am very productive while I am there - but thank heavens for my co-worker, Kathy, who makes up for my lack of enthusiasm and knowledge. It's been very frustrating for me. But I forge ahead!

Rebecca and Mark come to town this next week for a few days to see me and also to go Christmas shopping. It will be so nice to have them here with me. Liz and Rob have a new rescue dog - Mabel, and Rob is very busy with his stores readying them for the holidays. Anna is finishing her thesis and must defend it prior to Christmas vacation. She is very busy working on this document. Matt is back in Washington, DC having received a recent commendation for his work in Vienna. David continues to work on his asthma-GPS inhaler and talk with health care workers throughout the country. Lolly is busy with the boys' schedules and working on her freelance writing project.

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving and that you will also have fun getting ready for Christmas. I hope to get my tree next week while Becky and Mark are here - I have lots of special things to put up in my house, so I will be very busy. I will send photos of my Christmas decorations.

Thank you again for your special thoughts and prayers. I wake up each day knowing that all of you are thinking of me and helping me get through the day. It's my job to make sure that happens and I do my very best.

Suzy

November 22, 2009

2009-11-22T21:44:00.002-07:00

Today is the last day of the weekend. I have felt pretty well this weekend and have walked about 2 -3 miles each day. Last week I had chemotherapy on Tuesday, and by Friday of this past week, I felt as though I was really at school.

This week I will not have any chemotherapy, and my sons Matthew and Robert and Anna and Liz are coming to town to spend Thanksgiving with me. I am very excited, as you can imagine. We will be cooking a turkey and all the trimmings - well, they will help me! And it will taste amazing.

I am very rapidly losing my hair. I visited a wig shop on Saturday without any luck. All of the wig people want you to have lots of hair - and I don't want lots of hair. And all of the wigs are brown, blonde, fancy - but my hair is salt and pepper, mostly salt. The lady was not very impressed. We shall see.

I hope all of you have a wonderful Thanksgiving with your families. It is a special time for all of us and I am blessed that I am here with everyone wishing you all a grateful time. Please tell everyone how much you love them and how much they mean to you! Happy Thanksgiving Day to everyone.

Suzy

Sunday

2009-11-15T20:16:00.004-07:00

Hi everyone,

Today is Sunday and I am feeling pretty well, although the morning was a little rough. What I have of hair is starting to fall out which makes me somewhat crazy, so I have decided to have my friend Kim take it all off. I do have a wig from before and it is not too bad until my girls come to town and we search out a new wig for me. I feel a little out of fashion, but it will do for now.

The photo of me with my new hat was created by Charlie who is now three. He is showing me in front of the Phoenix Art Museum.

The other photo shows Henry with the camera and Charlie on the train back to Madison from Chicago. The boys and Lolly spent some time there until David returned from London where he was attending a conference to present his new device - a GPS enabled asthma inhaler. It was very well received and he is to be congratulated!

Tomorrow I have a blood test and then my new chemotherapy on Tuesday, so wish me luck. Then I have next week OFF. I am very excited. It will be a wonderful Thanksgiving. And I hope each and every one of you has the BEST Thanksgiving also.

Suzy

Friday, November 13, 2009

2009-11-13T21:32:00.002-07:00

Today is already Friday the 13th! But so far nothing horrible has happened. In fact, it was a good day. I had my chemotherapy on Tuesday of this week, followed by shots to help with the white blood cells on Wednesday and Friday (today), My hope is that the white blood cells will perk up and not make me so tired!

This was my first real week of work and even though it was hard, I managed to get there. I don't know how productive I was, but I was there. And so far, I have not gotten any colds from the students. I am careful, however.

Rebecca and Mark were supposed to come out to Phoenix this week to escape from the cold of New York, but they are both sick and have decided to stay in New York. Probably a good idea!

Matthew is home from Vienna and living in an apartment while we ship his things from Montana to DC. I have decided to hire movers rather than let Matthew drive a big truck across the country (which broke down last time he drove one of those things).
Rob and Liz and Matt and Anna are all coming here for Thanksgiving - so much fun. I am very excited to have all of them here and I have ordered a turkey to ready our plans for cooking. What wonderful smells we will have in this house that weekend!

Today I took the Polka Dog biscuits to Sue Lockinger who will take them to a wonderful AZ Retriever Rescue awareness event in Mesa at Bookman's. Thank you so much, Sue. It was great to see you today.

Next week my schedule will include chemotherapy, but no shots - so that is good. And then Thanksgiving Week, I have OFF. Wow! Great News!

Thank you once again to everyone and for everything. I am taking one day at a time and so far, I can keep my head on straight. But I do thank you for each little thing that you remember about me.

Don't forget to stop by Anthropologie everywhere to pick up the Polka Dog treats in the 5 pound cans - they are oh so good!

Suzy

Mark's Birthday

2009-11-06T21:05:00.004-07:00

Hi everyone,

Today is Friday and it is Mark's birthday - Happy Birthday, Mark!

And this week the new and second store for the Polka Dog Bakery in Jamaica Plain had its grand opening. There were about 150+ people there and it was very well attended. The new store is located on South Street in Jamaica Plain - if you live in the Boston area, be sure to pay them a visit.

I worked some yesterday and today at school. I certainly have a lot to catch up on and I thank Kathy Crowe from the bottom of my heart for taking over for me while I have been away from school. There is so much to do and she has done it exceptionally well and I especially thank her for everything. I am hopeful that we can now share the work that is still to come.

It has cooled down in the Phoenix area and my flowers are thriving! They look beautiful, both in the back yard and in the front yard. It's almost fall, now. I will post some photos this weekend while I am out walking.

I had dinner this week with my wonderful friend from Chicago, Jim Whitney. He invited me to the new Hermosa Inn, which is so lovely now that it has been refurbished. The dinner and the evening were superb - wonderful weather and excellent food. It was great to see him and catch up.

I talked with Henry and Charlie (my dear grandchildren) several times this week and hopefully I can see them before the Thanksgiving vacation. I will see my doctor on Monday, the 9th, to see how my blood is and if I can continue on with the chemotherapy scheduled for Tuesday.

Everyone please take care -and thank you to all of you for your good wishes. I shall be back in touch with some new photos from this lovely weekend in Phoenix.

Suzy

My new yard

2009-10-31T20:45:00.003-07:00

These are some photos of my new yard in the front of my condo. Joan Covec planted these lovely flowers to brighten up my house and get it all ready for Christmas time. Thank you, Joan. They are beautiful!

Suzy

Halloween Time 2009

2009-10-30T20:26:00.007-07:00

Hi everyone,

While at the Mayo Clinic on Wednesday, my radiation doctor said that my head is healing very nicely and my oncologist/neurologist said that I can now drive - it's been since August 10th. Both of these doctors said that I currently am "disease free," and we will continue to monitor my head and body in the future. So that's the BEST news and needless to say, I am so very excited. We are also including a photo of this wonderful volkswagen bus that Rob and Mark saw at the clinic and they both loved it. We could not find the owners.

It's almost Halloween Time. I had planned to go to Madison to be with Henry and Charlie and David and Lolly, but my doctor decided that my white blood cells were too low and I should stay home so that I would not get sick. So I finally agreed, although it has been a very difficult decision. I had planned to be with them for "trick or treat" time. But I decided to put on my costume and send a photo, thus the giraffe!

Rob left yesterday for Vienna to meet up with Matthew. The boys were going to the Ambassador's house tonight for a Halloween party and they were going as two nuclear isotopes - plutonium and uranium. Much fun, I am sure.

The Covec's (Mark's parents) have been here and we have had several wonderful days with them. Mark and his dad left to head to Mark's boat in Mexico and his mom and I (mostly his mom) planted wonderful cyclamen red and white flowers in the front of my condo yesterday for the upcoming holidays. (Photo tomorrow)

So I have much to be grateful for - wonderful doctors, wonderful nurses, and the love and support of my incredible family and friends. I shall continue to be well and be careful of the flu and the other diseases that are available for a person of my compromised system. Thank you for your wonderful wishes, your love and your support.

Suzy

October 23, 2009

2009-10-23T12:45:00.003-07:00

Hi everyone,

Today is already Friday and the week is almost gone. I don't know where the time goes!!!

I had my second chemotherapy treatment yesterday and my wonderful driver, Russ Ewers, took me to the Mayo Clinic for my appointment. He is the best and if any of you need to hire him, he is ready!!

The treatment went well - better than last time - as I was not so surprised this time. Following the treatment, I came home and even went to the Scottsdale Art Walk to hand out Polka Dog biscuits to interested art "walkers" and there were lots of them. It was a great night, but I was a little tired upon finishing. What we do for our children's businesss!!! But I was sure to tell everyone that we are now in the Anthropologie stores nationwide - everyone was very impressed! It's interesting that most people know of Anthropologie!

However, this morning I realized that my hair is, in fact, thinning out. A bummer, to say the least. I knew that it might, but now I realize that it is! I do have my old wig from before, but it's a little outdated, so maybe it's time for a new wig for Suzy. A long blond one?

Rob and Liz come to Phoenix tonight and I have many projects for us to do. Rob will then join Matt next week in Vienna to spend a few days with Matt prior to his coming back to the United States. Matt is actually traveling to Japan this week for a conference - I think it is his most eastern visit so far. What fun for him.

Our weather is so lovely here now. It really is the time to be in Phoenix and I am heading out for a walk as I write. It's great as I can walk to the bank, the drug store and even get a snack (ice cream) at McDonald's. But don't tell anyone that!

Rob will be working on the blog tomorrow - he always has such fun things to say and a wonderful way to say everything.
We will also post some photos - I think I am doing pretty well - still having a little trouble standing on that one foot, eyes closed, but...

Thank you again to everyone. You make each day fun to be alive and I especially wish to thank my most incredible children, David, Rob, Rebecca, and Matt for calling and emailing me each and every day. Their voices and words make the happiest of all.
Suzy

Anthropologie - The Polka Dog Bakery has arrived

2009-10-17T10:27:00.001-07:00

Saturday, October 17

2009-10-17T10:07:00.002-07:00

Hi everyone,

I am somewhat behind as I always am, it seems. Thursday morning I had my first chemotherapy infusion into my new PORT. I did go to the chemo unit at Mayo Clinic early on Thursday, but my PORT didn't want to work that early. So the gals had to put some medicine into it to make it work. The doctor had placed it correctly, but because it was new and this was the first time, the PORT needed to be coaxed, I guess. Anyway it did work - and the result is that I don't feel too bad. A little tired, but not too bad. So each Thursday I shall have a shot and hopefully this new type of chemo will allow me more time with my family and my friends.

I do want you all to know that my son and his business partner have gotten their biscuits into Anthropologie now, so all of you who have dogs need to take a trip to Anthropologie to pick up one of their 5 gallon cans of Polka Dog biscuits. (I will post a photo for you also.) They are truly great and your doggies will love them.

My sister has been here for a few days and we are getting many errands done that needed to be completed, as well as going to the store for goodies. She will leave on Sunday this week. It has been nice to have her here with me.

Thank you again for all of your good wishes. I am still at home, hoping to see my little Henry and Charlie for Halloween. Then perhaps back to work in early November. But first, Rob, Liz, Rebecca, Mark and his parents may come to see me. So there's lots happening here. It's a great time to visit Arizona when all of the other parts of the country are so cold. Rob also has a trip planned to visit Matt in Vienna while Matt is still there. David and Lolly are working hard and David will get his asthma devices very soon. We are all very excited!

So as you can see - we are hardly missing a BEAT! Thank you once again for your calls, your cards, and your thoughts and prayers. I shall forge ahead and hopefully this new chemo will also agree with me.

Love, Suzy

My little boys

2009-10-13T20:25:00.002-07:00

I want you all to meet Henry and Charlie. Henry and Charlie and their mom, Lolly and David, my son, have just come back from a wonderful hiking vacation to Colorado. Henry is 5 and attends Wingra School for kindergarten and Charlie just turned 3 and attends The Meeting House. They stopped in Kansas to visit with our 101 year old grandma, who looks much better than me! The boys had a great time hiking and climbing over some very heavy rocks! They loved every minute of it!!!

This photo is of the boys playing in the warm surf and sand at Figure 8! I so wish I could have been there, but next year!

Suzy

"Wish you were here, Oma!"

2009-10-13T19:37:00.005-07:00

This video of Charlie makes me so happy every time I see it! I wish I could be there too. I miss you boys!

Columbus Day, October 12th

2009-10-12T20:59:00.002-07:00

This week is going along fast and furious. Last Wednesday I had a PORT put into my body which you all saw in recent photos. This PORT is in anticipation of the first chemotherapy that I will receive on Thursday morning of this week. I am somewhat apprehensive of the upcoming chemo, but I shall wait to see what it is like and how this new drug will affect me. I think I know that I shall lose all of my wonderful short hair (once again), but I still do have my wig from the last time. (although it may not be in style from 2001)

I did have a CT scan on Thursday of last week from the neck down and the CT scan showed that there is no cancer from the neck area down through my body. So that's very good news. My doctor refers to this as "NED" - no evidence of disease. And I have an MRI on the 28th to check my head. Wow - so much radiation!!

I continue to forge ahead. Everyone think good thoughts on Thursday morning while I am in the chemotherapy unit at Mayo. The new medicine is Abraxane (into the PORT). I am hopeful that my body will tolerate this new chemo - but I will let you know.

Thank you for remembering me and sending your thoughts and best wishes to me - I deeply appreciate each and everyone of you.

Suzy

October 8, 2009

2009-10-08T21:21:00.002-07:00

Today is Matt's last day with me. He will head back to Vienna (where I had hoped to go as well) tomorrow. He will be in Vienna until the end of October and then come back to Washington, DC. Anna will also head out tomorrow back to Montana to see her family and to complete an application for further schooling.

It has been so wonderful having Matt here with me. I have not seen him since July 4th when we headed to the Washington monument to watch the fireworks. Wow, what an experience. Washington was so much fun this summer, visiting all of the museums free of charge. I plan to go back sometime soon.

Today, we did go to the Mayo Hospital to have a CT scan from the neck down. I am hoping to speak with Dr. Karlin tomorrow to get the results. And I hope they are GOOD! So everyone, think good thoughts for me.

I will keep you informed about my progress. Thank you again for everything -

Suzy

Time for a Port (and not the wine)

2009-10-07T14:43:00.006-07:00

Today was D-day for the Port in anticipation for new chemotherapy next Thursday. For those of you who don't know what a Port is (like me) here is what it looks like:

The Port is implanted in my left side and allows them to give me my medicine through a little silicone ball.

Matt and Anna have been here, keeping me on top of my exercises. Standing on one foot is still a little challenging, but it's coming along.

It has been a long day so I think this will be a short post. More from us tomorrow!

Love you all

Suzy

Saturday, October 3

2009-10-03T09:30:00.002-07:00

Rebecca just left; I am so very sorry to see her leave. We had the most wonderful time and it was the very best to have her here with me. She is my little girl!!!

Tonight later on Matt comes from Vienna; I have not seen Matt since July 4th when we attended the fireworks in Washington, DC. What fun that was!

I did see my doctor yesterday and right now I am disease free. We are going to do many more scans and we are also going to start a new type of chemotherapy beginning the week of October 15. My radiation is finished - five treatments. So far, I am not feeling too tired from this radiation. The gals gave me my fancy mask to keep as a remembrance. (I will send a photo later on.)

Thank you again for all of your cards, your wonderful thoughts and your prayers. I am glad we have a plan now, so I can begin to fight this new part of my life.

Suzy

Tuesday, September 29

2009-09-29T22:19:00.002-07:00

Today I have already had two of the five radiation treatments and so far, I feel just fine. I guess by Friday, I will be somewhat tired, but the ladies who are doing the treatment for me at Mayo said they did not think I would be tired at all. So that's the best news.

Following my last radiation treatment, I will see the doctor on Friday to decide what my newest treatment will be. There is some talk of a new chemotherapy for the brain, which I do want to investigate and learn more about the side effects the new drug will present.

So all is going well, exercises are coming right along - I only wish it would cool down in Phoenix, but I think that time is coming. I hope so. Even my stitches are almost gone!

Thank you to everyone who continues to think about me, and wish me strength and determination to fight this next battle.

Suzy

Saturday, September 26

2009-09-26T19:56:00.003-07:00

This evening I had a wonderful dinner with Elizabeth Teitel and Mark Matz. We went to this great new place called Wally's not too far from my house. I wish to thank them so very much for my dinner along with my card and the beautiful candle for my house. Plus, it is always so much fun to be with them. Thank you to Jana and Mark Zinman and little Mason who stopped to say hi today. It was a real treat to see them.

And last night I went for dinner with Sue Hoecker and Dana Smith. We had such a fun time talking about all of our kid's friends and where they all are now. The kids are pretty spread out, but doing very well. Thank you so much for a great evening.

Tomorrow Rebecca comes to town from New York. She will arrive late as she does have MBA school on Sunday in New York and then catches a Jet Blue plane to Phoenix. We will go to the Mayo Clinic early Monday morning for my first radiation therapy treatment. Radiation will continue each day the week of September 28th. I am glad she will be with me. By Friday, the 2nd of October, I do plan to be very tired. But I will keep at it!!!

Lots happening this next week, so I need to be ready. Thank you again for everything. I shall try to keep you all informed of my progress. So far I am doing nicely, but I know there will be a setback following the radiation. So I am ready.

Suzy

Monday, the 21st

2009-09-21T21:37:00.002-07:00

Hi everyone,

Today was Monday. I did my walking two times, rode the bicycle for half an hour, and even walked to the Chart House for dinner. I was very hungry and the dinner was perfect and quite good.

It's still hard to stand on one foot with your eyes closed, but it's coming! I am good with my exercises, I think. Well, maybe not comparing me with a 40 year old, but at my age, what can you expect?

This week I have therapy and then next week beings my radiation. I only hope that I don't get too tired from that, but I will take it as it comes. Thank you once again for all of your cards, your notes, your wonderful thoughts and your prayers.

Suzy

2009-09-18T19:33:00.002-07:00

Today is Friday, the 18th. My baby, Matthew. turned 30 today, David, my oldest son, turned 39 the 12th of this month, and little Charlie, David and Lolly's son, turned 3 on the 16th. What a big month for birthdays. And tomorrow, the 19th is Paul Covec's birthday and also Joan and Paul's anniversary. (Mark's mom and dad) Congratulations.

My therapy is going along very well. I am happy with my results. The closing of the eyes is still hard for me to do, but it's coming. Our weather has cooled down somewhat. Nice mornings to walk. We have a great clubhouse with a bike in the workout room, thus I am able to ride the bike for exercise also.

Prior to Mark's leaving we planted petunias in my back planter area. It looks very nice and I thank him for helping me with that task. It is nice to be in the kitchen and look out to see the lovely flowers and my hummingbird who comes to visit as well.

Thank you all again for everything. I feel your strength, your thoughts, and your love during my entire day.

Suzy

September 16, 2009

2009-09-16T20:11:00.002-07:00

Hi everyone,

Today is Wednesday and much has happened since yesterday. I did go to the Mayo Clinic yesterday to complete the stationary mask for the radiation which will happen on September 28 - October 2. I will begin this each day for about 3 - 4 minutes during the five day treatment. The mask was quite cool, beginning with a warm webbing-like thing which then cooled and hardened to the contour of my face, neck and ears. So I am now ready to begin the process.

Today was my first day alone. I did walk several times outside, and around my house as well. It is hard to stand in the corner with your eyes closed and stand on one foot. You try it! I don't even know if I did it before, but now it is very hard to do. But, of course, I am determined.

Today is my Charlie's birthday - he is three today. (Wisconsin) Tomorrow is his Meeting House, so hopefully he can take his birthday time with him to preschool. Henry, who is attending kindergarden will turn 6 on February 6, 2010. He loves his school and has tons of friends. I can't wait to see the boys. It has been way too long and as all of you know, they do change so very much during this time.

Tomorrow I do hope to have photos - and I want to sincerely thank you for all of your cards, notes, thoughts, love, support and prayers. You are all incredible to me.

Suzy

Today is Monday, September 14th

2009-09-14T21:25:00.002-07:00

Hi everyone,

Today was a good day. Mark and I met with Dr. Vora who will begin my radiation on September 28th for a period of 5 days. We were able to see the photos of my tumor prior to its being taken out of my head and the spot where the tumor has been removed from the head. Very interesting. Tomorrow I go to the department to begin the casting of my head so that I cannot move during the upcoming radiation.

We also met with my oncologist today to discuss possible chemotherapy drugs after radiation. Our visit with her was also very worthwhile and informative.

Tonight Mark and I celebrated with a lovely dinner at Bloom - one of our favorite restaurants. And I cleaned my plate - I was very hungry. (which seems to always be the case, these days)

I am doing pretty well - each day gets better and for that I am grateful. Please know that each of you has played a very important part in this recovery and I am working hard not only for me, but for you. Thank you.

Suzy

2009-09-14T10:43:00.003-07:00

Matthew in Vienna with Secretary of Energy Steven Chu during the IAEA Conference - wow!!!
To see all of the photos - visit the site below:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/nnsanews/sets/72157622365902510/show/with/3918701295/

Suzy

Sunday, September 13

2009-09-13T20:36:00.002-07:00

Hi everyone,

I am back at home now and it feels really good. Back to work - doing my exercising, walking, physical therapy, etc. We will see the radiation oncologist tomorrow afternoon, so I should know about our plans for radiation for the future.

I do miss all of my friends at school - it seems strange not to be there with all of you. I am happy that Kathy is back and that Mary is helping out so wonderfully on our behalf. Just in case you have missed it, you should check out the College 101 that Sharon and Kathy have done. It is incredible and VERY well done, and on the College and Career website. Now we just have to make sure the kids know how to find it!!

Thank you all again for your love and support. I shall have good news to report for tomorrow, hopefully.

Suzy

Back to Mayo

2009-09-11T01:16:00.003-07:00

Suzy went back to the Mayo Hospital Thursday afternoon because she was having a fever. Now that she is there she feels fine and the fever is gone so she wants to come home. However, it is likely she will stay for a few days to follow through on a few test and to get a few antibiotics.

Friday is a busy day as she is supposed to get her staples out which is very exciting. I am sure she will update everyone when she has a chance.

-Mark

2009-09-08T19:48:00.002-07:00

Today is Tuesday, September 8, 2009. The days are hurrying by. This morning I had my physical therapy for an hour - it seems to wear me out. But it's good. Today I did walk all around my house and I can get up easier than yesterday. I did my exercises in the corner this afternoon and Anita came with me to walk the complex.

David left this morning - back to his family and his wonderful Henry, Charlie and Lolly. I know they have missed him very much, but it was great that he was here with me. He is such an inspiration to me.

I missed the pool today, but plan to do that tomorrow and also the bicycle in the club house.

Mark comes tomorrow to help me with the exercises as well as the driving. I do not like being told I cannot drive, but I do understand.

We will post a photo tomorrow for sure. Again, thank you for everything, your love, your thoughts, your prayers, your strength; it's so important to me.

Suzy

A very good day, Saturday September 5

2009-09-05T22:00:00.002-07:00

Hi everyone,

This morning David and I did my walking, and all of my exercises. Then we headed out for a few errands, but more importantly to the new Phoenix Art Museum. Wow, it is lovely! I have not been there since it has been remodeled and I was extremely awed by not only the building, but the wonderful art, photography, and exceptional paintings. I did enjoy every single minute of it.

This evening another walk working on balance and stepping higher. And tomorrow is another day - exercises, walking, pool and bicycle also.

Life is going along ok for me. Staples will come out later this week.

Thank you all once again for everything.

Suzy

Physical Therapy September 3, 2009

2009-09-04T08:56:00.003-07:00

Yesterday morning I had my second time with Brendan, the physical therapist. It's very good for me to get these legs moving again. My hands do not seem to have as much trouble, but the bottom part of me takes some doing.

David is here with me now from Madison. This morning we are heading to the Mayo Clinic to see the surgeon and check how the staples are healing. Hopefully, they will come out.

Early this morning David and I went walking - feels pretty good in the early morning, quiet and less heat beating down. I have a schedule now - exercising... I bike in the clubhouse and then walk and keep up pretty well here at home. It's coming, albeit slowly. But it's coming.

Reading the paper, what a novelty - reading books - listening to NPR, wow. What was I doing prior to this? It's almost too nice. But I do like it for a short time.

Thank you once again for your wonderful thoughts and prayers. I know they are helping me through this and I deeply appreciate each and every one of them. I will not let you down.

Suzy

Physical Therapy Today September 1, 2009

2009-09-01T21:15:00.002-07:00

Today was my first morning at physical therapy. I did learn quite a bit about myself and how far I need to progress in my skill sets. I guess I never realized that we are somewhat at a loss when we do not have all of our facilities to get the right side and the left side arranged correctly. It's a rather interesting time for me - and certainly somewhat different.

Rebecca and I then did some errands and came home to a lovely dinner provided by Jennifer and Joe Vasquez and little Sophia. What a delightful treat for all of us.

Tomorrow morning, David VS will come to town and sweet Rebecca leaves to go to the big city of New York to unpack her new Atlantic offices in the downtown area. It have been so wonderful to have her here with me. Now I am determined that the next time they all come, I will be much better to able manage my life and exercises.

Thank you all for your encouragement and support - now I have to get BUSY!

Swimming Day

2009-08-31T22:27:00.003-07:00

Today Rebecca and I headed out for the physical therapy man who will hopefully help me beginning tomorrow with my new exercises. It is a rather strange feeling not to be able to make things work when you perhaps know they should. The pool does help, although the mosquitoes seem to be waiting for me - and for her! Each day I get a tiny bit better, which is encouraging, I guess. I am anxious to begin my therapy work hoping that it will have an effect on me. And then I must promise myself to do it each and every day. It is lovely to have her here with me - making me do things I probably would not wish to do on my own. But so important.

Robert, in Boston, will be soon opening a new Polka Dog store in Jamaica Plain, MA and we all are very excited. Good for the Polka Dog folks!

Tomorrow should be a good day for us - some errands and some fun things as well.
Love you all and thank you for your thoughts and support.

2009-08-30T21:31:00.002-07:00

Robert left this morning and now lovely Rebecca is here with me. We had a fun day today - Whole Foods and lots of nice driving around and thinking about the Scottsdale when it used to be a different place. Much to post tomorrow - each day I grow stronger and I am doing my exercises pretty well - legs as coming - fingers are good - typing a little to be desired yet, BUT it's coming. And that's important for me.

Thank you all for your love and support and your thoughts. They mean very much to me and to my family.

The Cold Snap Continues!

2009-08-27T11:46:00.003-07:00

Borrowing a joke from a good, old friend of mine, mom and I just can't wait for the cold snap to end! Today, the mercury is forecast to clock in at 111, tomorrow 113, which here in Arizona they call an excessive heat warning. Hmmm. I'm not sure at what level regular heat becomes excessive heat, but 111 seems like a fairly reasonable benchmark. What this means, of course, is that the 10K mom and I had planned and carbo-loaded for all week might have to wait a couple days...

So, in lieu of a tyvek racing number and some funny-looking nylon short-shorts, instead we headed out this morning to walk the grounds. Many things afoot at the Enchanted Village: the new fence for the new dog run is being laid out by a somewhat surly man who obviously would rather be working as a lifeguard in a place that rhymes with Rancho Relaxo, a driveway down and around the corner has been repaved with a flawless, shiny, protective, stucco-colored enamel, which mom thinks definitely will show the dirt, we remarked on the ubiquitousness of the ever-spiky and poisonous oleander, that here within the village walls has been trained almost exclusively into small orchards of blossoming trees. We missed the mail, but didn't miss the recycling truck. A full morning indeed.

Later, we're planning a trip to the pool to do a little cross-training, but that will be a subject for a different post.

Mom says hi to each and all and thanks everyone again for all the cards, flowers, thoughts, prayers, and encouragement. She is getting stronger every day. It is simply a marvel to behold.

Sending our love out...

More later. Now, off to lunch...

A walk outside

2009-08-25T08:00:00.002-07:00

Posting a comment

2009-08-24T14:50:00.003-07:00

Hi Everyone,

Thanks for all the great comments. Suzy is loving getting to read every ones comments and is enjoying posting messages herself. I know there are a few of you out there that have had some trouble posting comments so below I try to explain how to do it if you are interested.

For all of you new to blogging you can post a comment or read other peoples comments by clicking on the comments section at the bottom of each post. By clicking you will be taken to the comment section for the post you were reading. You will be able to read other peoples posts and at the bottom of the page there is an area for you to type your own message. After you type your message just push the the post comments button, enter the little code word it shows you, and your message should show up.

Happy blogging.

Mark

The Haircut

2009-08-24T14:43:00.002-07:00

These are my newest staples - rather cool, I guess. But it makes for far less work I am convinced and it is easy for me. My Matt says I look for some weird atomic energy person, I guess. Reverse mullet!!! Like is looking up a bit, but I am still somewhat tired, so a little more time would be so wonderful. I am just sitting reading, enjoying my guys and enjoying my life. It's pretty different for me, right now, but I do love it!
Suzy

For those that have had surgery you know they now sign your surgical site before they start. Here is Suzy's presurgery signature on the back of her neck.

I am back at home resting

2009-08-23T20:15:00.005-07:00

Hi everyone,

I am now back at home and it feels so wonderful - amazing! Thank you for all of your posts to my blog; Rob and Mark have helped me with this. It is incredible.

I do welcome your thoughts and your prayers; right now I am resting and trying to be careful with my recovery. I do so appreciate your concern and I will gladly see you very soon, but right now I guess it's my turn to stay put and recover.

Rob and Mark and worked on my house to make it adaptable to my new surroundings, and I am learning to get with the program. Lots of work to do - in short stages! However, much to relearn, but it's coming.

Love you all

Suzy

Getting ready for Suzy's homecoming

2009-08-23T16:06:00.003-07:00

We are busy getting the house ready for Suzy to come home. Rob installed a new handrail in the hallway that looks good and works like a charm. We also installed a shower chair and a fancy new shower head so she won't fall.

New Sign at Mayo

2009-08-22T12:48:00.002-07:00

The Mayo Clinic has been installing a new sign while Suzy has been at the hospital.

Please hold the calls and visits

2009-08-22T12:19:00.000-07:00

Suzy wanted to thank everyone for all their wonderful posts. She has really enjoyed being able to log in and read the new comments from everyone. She wanted to encourage everyone to continue to post comments as this has been easier for her than reading and answering emails.

Suzy's family and doctors would also like to ask that everyone sends their wishes and thoughts through the blog as Suzy is not feeling up to visitors right now. She is progressing better than anyone expected but is still very tired. Her doctors have recommended that she not tire herself out so please hold the phone calls and visits for a while. We will do our best to keep everyone up to date on the blog and Suzy will be posting herself when she is feeling up to it. We will let everyone know when she is ready to have visitors again.

Thanks to everyone!

Saturday, August 22

2009-08-22T11:59:00.000-07:00

It is me - I am doing very well today - lot of new things to learn, but with patience and time, I can relearn all of them once again - It is rather strange to be in this position, but ok with me. My head is feeling ok - and I am eating now and visiting with all of you and I have learned to skype!! Wow - such fun.

I am planning to go home tomorrow - all's well here - it is a very special place Mayo Clinic and the staff has been wonderful to me.

I cannot thank you enough for all of your emails and calls to me. It is so important and gracious and I thank you for taking the time to write me. I am looking forward to recovering from this and then on to the next thing - I am up for the challenge.

Love to everyone and thank you

Suzy

Moving from the ICU

2009-08-21T18:38:00.000-07:00

me and mom at the icu...heading upstairs!

Day 2 update from Suzy

2009-08-21T18:04:00.000-07:00

Thank you so very much for all of your messages. You have no idea how much you all mean to me and I am extremely grateful for your lovely notes. I am doing well - albeit a little slowly, but well. My family is so important to me and I love them so much and I love ALL OF YOU.

Thank you

Suzy

Surgery Update from Mayo: Day 1

2009-08-21T10:22:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a long day. We needed to be at the hospital at 6:00am to check in for the surgery. We saw Suzy at 7:30am after she was all changed and ready. She was looking good and was ready to get going.

The surgery started at 8:35am and they called us with an update around 10am to let us know they had removed the tumor and the surgery was moving along well. They had previously estimated the surgery to last from 4–6 hours, so we were excited to hear they were ahead of their schedule. The surgery finished at 12:00pm, and we met with Dr. Lyons who let us know that everything had gone exactly as expected.

Suzy spent a few more hours in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) and then was brought over to the ICU. We saw her here at 3:30pm. She was still rather groggy, so we sat by the bed and let her wake a bit more. An hour later, she was more awake, and we chatted a bit. She had some pain at the surgery site, which was expected. They gave her a bit more pain medication, and it worked like a charm. She was feeling much better, so we had a little visit and then headed home to let her get some rest.

We returned to the ICU in the evening around 9:00pm, and Suzy was much more awake. We could tell she was feeling better; the sedatives were wearing off, and she was quizzing us to be sure we had taken care of everything. It was great to see her feeling so good just a few hours after surgery. We spent more than an hour talking with her, and she was even able to eat a little soup. We left her in the excellent care of her nurse, Jenn, and went home to pass out.

Thanks to all the family and friends who have sent their good wishes to Suzy and our family. It is wonderful to have so many amazing people in our lives; you have helped Suzy pull through surgery successfully and we are forever grateful for your kindness and generosity. We are sorry we did not have time to call and talk with each of you yesterday, but Rob completely drained the battery on his phone time times just calling our family with updates.

We’ll keep writing periodic updates on Suzy’s status here, so please check back.

If you would like to send a note to Suzy, please leave a comment on this site. We will be printing your comments and sharing them with Suzy at the hospital—we’re hoping to decorate her room with them!

Thanks again to everyone for your support!