A note from Sarah:
What a morning. Why was woman cursed with having emotional meltdowns and men just swallow hard and move on? I will ask God that very question one day. Our morning started out with taking the next step on our cancer treatment journey. Kirk was making some phone calls to schedule appointments with the surgeon to talk about options and appointments for upcoming scans. We were also on the hunt for some answers regarding when I could start my Tamoxifen regiment as well as when the next opening is for a surgery date. I had no idea that taking the next step was going to hit me so hard. The reality of what is to come was at the forefront of my mind and it overwhelmed me to the breaking point. I was on the verge of hyperventilating when Kirk’s survival instincts took over and he talked me down. Kirk is a great man and I would be in a desperate place without him. One of the reasons why all this is hitting me so hard is because I am just starting to feel like myself again only to start walking down another road of physical changes. It feels like Kirk and I are in the eye of the storm. There is a storm behind us and a storm in front of us but we are holding on tight to every minute of the “calm” before the next storm. Today Kirk knew that I needed to get out of the house in order to leave some stress behind so we thought it was an excellent day to donate some baby hats to the hospital. I donated a total of 60 baby hats today and I feel a sense of accomplishment and a pat on my back for a job well done. While I was dropping off my hats I knew my mom was working so we went up to say “hey”. I love seeing my mom’s crew! They pour out the love when I’m there with hugs and smiles. I was encouraged that it was okay to enjoy the eye of the storm and by the time I left my shoulders had loosened up. Most people don’t go to the hospital to get a pick me up but Mamma Hawk’s crew can always pick me up by my bootstraps and send me on my way smiling.
Thank you for all the comments about wanting to hear more of my day to day thoughts as well as the comments about the Komo News article online. Sherri also got my story and the Alfy’s fundraiser on Komo news AM 1000 today at 2:15. Kirk and I sat in front of the radio and listened and when they had finished I did a celebratory dance which may have scared some neighbors! Thanks for your prayers and support!
Love Always,
Sarah
Friday, August 13, 2010
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Day 150
Do you want to hear more?
I have been told by a couple of people now that my blog readers want to hear more. Is this true? I keep you all updated with everything medical related but don’t write much about day to day happenings. At first I didn’t want to bore you with my every thought and feeling but now I’m thinking you may want to hear about them. Please let me know if you want more and if I receive enough comments or emails I will commit to writing more about little ol’ me. By the way Sunshine…yes I’m talking to you. I hear from my mom all the time you want more so I’ll put you as my first tally mark on the “Yes” side!
Love Always,
Sarah
I have been told by a couple of people now that my blog readers want to hear more. Is this true? I keep you all updated with everything medical related but don’t write much about day to day happenings. At first I didn’t want to bore you with my every thought and feeling but now I’m thinking you may want to hear about them. Please let me know if you want more and if I receive enough comments or emails I will commit to writing more about little ol’ me. By the way Sunshine…yes I’m talking to you. I hear from my mom all the time you want more so I’ll put you as my first tally mark on the “Yes” side!
Love Always,
Sarah
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Day 149
Interview:
This morning I met with Kristi O’Harran from The Herald for an interview. It was set up by you know who…Sherri Pribble-Jones A.K.A. my own personal PR representative. Sherri has been chasing the newspapers, radio and TV news channels to get my story out there. What a fantastic friend she is! As we started to chat this morning at Sherri’s Alfy’s, and by we I mean Sherri, my mother, Kristi and me, it was like we were the three amigos! I guess in our case it was the three amigas! We were laughing, crying and finishing each other’s sentences. We all have played a part in this complicated road and it was good to tell “our” story. Kristi was so kind and hung on our every word. I can’t wait for the article to come out. She said it would run on Monday so grab a copy!
I do have to chat up my husband a little. Kristi was taken back at how supportive Kirk has been these past five months. Every part of my story included my loyal husband at my side. Even when our “fairytale” marriage turned a little rocky he continued to be my knight in shining armor and saved the day. I told Kristi in an email that not only did I marry my best friend but I married my biggest fan and he cheers me on every day. I also had to apologize for gushing about my sweetheart so much and blamed it on the fact that our 3rd anniversary was only yesterday. Nevermind… I can’t stop gushing about him even when it is not around our anniversary so I guess the only thing to do is thank God for the man He gave me.
Read a recent article that was featured in the “Lake Steven’s Journal” and the “Granite Falls Press”. Thanks again to Sherri for getting them interested in Sarah’s Hope!
Love Always,
Sarah
This morning I met with Kristi O’Harran from The Herald for an interview. It was set up by you know who…Sherri Pribble-Jones A.K.A. my own personal PR representative. Sherri has been chasing the newspapers, radio and TV news channels to get my story out there. What a fantastic friend she is! As we started to chat this morning at Sherri’s Alfy’s, and by we I mean Sherri, my mother, Kristi and me, it was like we were the three amigos! I guess in our case it was the three amigas! We were laughing, crying and finishing each other’s sentences. We all have played a part in this complicated road and it was good to tell “our” story. Kristi was so kind and hung on our every word. I can’t wait for the article to come out. She said it would run on Monday so grab a copy!
I do have to chat up my husband a little. Kristi was taken back at how supportive Kirk has been these past five months. Every part of my story included my loyal husband at my side. Even when our “fairytale” marriage turned a little rocky he continued to be my knight in shining armor and saved the day. I told Kristi in an email that not only did I marry my best friend but I married my biggest fan and he cheers me on every day. I also had to apologize for gushing about my sweetheart so much and blamed it on the fact that our 3rd anniversary was only yesterday. Nevermind… I can’t stop gushing about him even when it is not around our anniversary so I guess the only thing to do is thank God for the man He gave me.
Read a recent article that was featured in the “Lake Steven’s Journal” and the “Granite Falls Press”. Thanks again to Sherri for getting them interested in Sarah’s Hope!
Love Always,
Sarah
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Day 148
Our 3rd Anniversary!!!
Tuseday the 10th was our 3rd anniversary!!! I cannot by any shade of the imagination understand how three years could have passed so quickly. At the same time, It feels to us like many years. This year so far has brought a lot of chances for us to learn what being married is all about. “I Do” takes on a whole new meaning. You have to mean it in the best of times (which is pretty easy) and you have to mean it in the worst of times. The latter is really just as easy for Sarah and I. The times may be hard but staying committed to each other is simple. However, we do have our parent’s good examples to follow. Thanks guys!
Monday night Sarah and I went down to Seattle (an anniversary tradition for us) and stayed at the Sheraton Hotel. We had a Deluxe King Room (which for me means that my feet don’t hang off the end of the bed…imagine that). As we always do, we spent the day of our anniversary rodding around downtown Seattle. If you could believe it, we have never done or seen the same things twice save for one stop. Sarah always likes to buy a beautiful bouquet of flowers from Pike Place Market. This year we started our day by going to Seattle’s most iconic landmark. You guessed it…”The Space Needle”. To some of you that might seem kind of silly (especially since we have both lived here all our lives) however neither of us has been up there since we were little kids. I personally didn’t even remember it. The sun decided to shine (Regardless of what Steve Pool predicted) and the views from the top were awesome! We were enjoying the sun so much that when we finally came back to earth we just laid in the grass park below the needle and soaked up some rays. We could have laid there for hours, but we had 2 tickets in our name. For what you might ask? The Duck Tours. Oh come on, you know you’ve seen them in town and always wanted to go on them. Well I don’t know how to break this to you so I’ll just come out and say it, “We beat you to it.” It was loads of fun filled with music, some lesser known Seattle facts, dancing, and of course “Quack Attacks”. What are “Quack Attacks?” I am glad you asked. Have you ever seen someone on the side of the street who looked like they could use a slice of happy and all they were waiting for was someone or a lot of someones to quack at them really, really loud? On the Duck Tours you get to do this virtually at will without being arrested. I f you ever get a chance to go don’t hesitate. What a blast!
To me, this anniversary was very special because instead of worrying about issues like losing my wife to cancer, I got to have fun with her again knowing that everything will be okay. Looking back on three years of marriage, I see how my love for Sarah has grown. I cherish all the little things that I love about her. Simple little things like how she only eats the white ”Good and Plenty” or how she makes up songs for anything and everything and then sings them in opera style just make me smile from ear to ear. I can’t wait until we have children so I can see Sarah’s traits coming out in them. What a great gift our children will be when the time comes. Sarah is doing so well, nobody would be able to tell that she has just gone through a very tough five months. I couldn’t be more proud of my wife!!!
Thank You for supporting my beautiful wife and me through the tough days as well as our “sweet” days!
Kirk
Tuseday the 10th was our 3rd anniversary!!! I cannot by any shade of the imagination understand how three years could have passed so quickly. At the same time, It feels to us like many years. This year so far has brought a lot of chances for us to learn what being married is all about. “I Do” takes on a whole new meaning. You have to mean it in the best of times (which is pretty easy) and you have to mean it in the worst of times. The latter is really just as easy for Sarah and I. The times may be hard but staying committed to each other is simple. However, we do have our parent’s good examples to follow. Thanks guys!
Monday night Sarah and I went down to Seattle (an anniversary tradition for us) and stayed at the Sheraton Hotel. We had a Deluxe King Room (which for me means that my feet don’t hang off the end of the bed…imagine that). As we always do, we spent the day of our anniversary rodding around downtown Seattle. If you could believe it, we have never done or seen the same things twice save for one stop. Sarah always likes to buy a beautiful bouquet of flowers from Pike Place Market. This year we started our day by going to Seattle’s most iconic landmark. You guessed it…”The Space Needle”. To some of you that might seem kind of silly (especially since we have both lived here all our lives) however neither of us has been up there since we were little kids. I personally didn’t even remember it. The sun decided to shine (Regardless of what Steve Pool predicted) and the views from the top were awesome! We were enjoying the sun so much that when we finally came back to earth we just laid in the grass park below the needle and soaked up some rays. We could have laid there for hours, but we had 2 tickets in our name. For what you might ask? The Duck Tours. Oh come on, you know you’ve seen them in town and always wanted to go on them. Well I don’t know how to break this to you so I’ll just come out and say it, “We beat you to it.” It was loads of fun filled with music, some lesser known Seattle facts, dancing, and of course “Quack Attacks”. What are “Quack Attacks?” I am glad you asked. Have you ever seen someone on the side of the street who looked like they could use a slice of happy and all they were waiting for was someone or a lot of someones to quack at them really, really loud? On the Duck Tours you get to do this virtually at will without being arrested. I f you ever get a chance to go don’t hesitate. What a blast!
To me, this anniversary was very special because instead of worrying about issues like losing my wife to cancer, I got to have fun with her again knowing that everything will be okay. Looking back on three years of marriage, I see how my love for Sarah has grown. I cherish all the little things that I love about her. Simple little things like how she only eats the white ”Good and Plenty” or how she makes up songs for anything and everything and then sings them in opera style just make me smile from ear to ear. I can’t wait until we have children so I can see Sarah’s traits coming out in them. What a great gift our children will be when the time comes. Sarah is doing so well, nobody would be able to tell that she has just gone through a very tough five months. I couldn’t be more proud of my wife!!!
Thank You for supporting my beautiful wife and me through the tough days as well as our “sweet” days!
Kirk
(click on image below to enlarge)
(click on image below to enlarge)
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Day 139
My Alaskan Cruise in a nutshell:
I’m back! My Alaska cruise was fantastic. Each day was filled with new and exciting adventures. I committed to going on this cruise with my mom before I was even diagnosed with breast cancer. All throughout my chemotherapy treatment I had been questioning whether or not I would be strong enough to actually go. My mother never doubted for a second that her baby girl would not let cancer stand between her and a chance to cross Alaska off of her places to see list. My mother has never doubted that I could do anything I set my mind to…don’t you just love mothers? I definitely love mine! My mom and I traveled with my Grandma Lorraine and Aunt Bonnie (my mother’s mother and sister). It was a very exciting trip for my Grandma and Aunt since an Alaskan Cruise would be the biggest vacation that they had been on. In fact for my Grandma it was the first time she had set foot on a ship and the first time she had left the state of Washington. To say the least we did a lot of “firsts” with Grandma on our trip. What a gorgeous place the Alaskan wilderness is. I could have stared at its majestic beauty for days. The glaciers were incredible. You just can’t grasp their wonder until you are dwarfed by their sheer size. Each city we stopped in was more charming than the last. Our stops included Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Victoria B.C. I got to experience the Mendenhall Glacier, a salmon hatchery, the Mt. Roberts Tramway, a catamaran wildlife expedition, the Butchart Gardens and of course shopping! At night we would dress up and go to shows filled with dancing, comedy, juggling, singing and magic. Meals were a show in and of themselves. I must have had enough desserts to last me a lifetime. Do I feel guilty? No way! My mom and I also participated in the Susan G. Komen “On Deck for the Cure” breast cancer walk. I walked more than half the walk before my body just about gave out. I wasn’t too hard on myself though because I kept in mind that I had just finished 18 weeks of treatment. My mamma finished with flying colors with little ole’ me as her inspiration. On our Ketchikan day I had to stay onboard because of exhaustion. I urged my family to go on without me while I rested up for Victoria. That was the only day I felt the lasting effects of treatment so I considered myself blessed. Our cruise was a great time of family bonding. We talked about our dreams, played card games, laughed hysterically at old stories till one in the morning and played race car with Grandma’s wheelchair. We absolutely had the trip of a lifetime!
Thank you for keeping my family and me in your prayers! God was with me every nautical mile and allowed me to forget about cancer and completely enjoy myself. Even though I had a wonderful time, I am very happy to be back home with my husband and support group.
Love Always,
Sarah
I’m back! My Alaska cruise was fantastic. Each day was filled with new and exciting adventures. I committed to going on this cruise with my mom before I was even diagnosed with breast cancer. All throughout my chemotherapy treatment I had been questioning whether or not I would be strong enough to actually go. My mother never doubted for a second that her baby girl would not let cancer stand between her and a chance to cross Alaska off of her places to see list. My mother has never doubted that I could do anything I set my mind to…don’t you just love mothers? I definitely love mine! My mom and I traveled with my Grandma Lorraine and Aunt Bonnie (my mother’s mother and sister). It was a very exciting trip for my Grandma and Aunt since an Alaskan Cruise would be the biggest vacation that they had been on. In fact for my Grandma it was the first time she had set foot on a ship and the first time she had left the state of Washington. To say the least we did a lot of “firsts” with Grandma on our trip. What a gorgeous place the Alaskan wilderness is. I could have stared at its majestic beauty for days. The glaciers were incredible. You just can’t grasp their wonder until you are dwarfed by their sheer size. Each city we stopped in was more charming than the last. Our stops included Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Victoria B.C. I got to experience the Mendenhall Glacier, a salmon hatchery, the Mt. Roberts Tramway, a catamaran wildlife expedition, the Butchart Gardens and of course shopping! At night we would dress up and go to shows filled with dancing, comedy, juggling, singing and magic. Meals were a show in and of themselves. I must have had enough desserts to last me a lifetime. Do I feel guilty? No way! My mom and I also participated in the Susan G. Komen “On Deck for the Cure” breast cancer walk. I walked more than half the walk before my body just about gave out. I wasn’t too hard on myself though because I kept in mind that I had just finished 18 weeks of treatment. My mamma finished with flying colors with little ole’ me as her inspiration. On our Ketchikan day I had to stay onboard because of exhaustion. I urged my family to go on without me while I rested up for Victoria. That was the only day I felt the lasting effects of treatment so I considered myself blessed. Our cruise was a great time of family bonding. We talked about our dreams, played card games, laughed hysterically at old stories till one in the morning and played race car with Grandma’s wheelchair. We absolutely had the trip of a lifetime!
Thank you for keeping my family and me in your prayers! God was with me every nautical mile and allowed me to forget about cancer and completely enjoy myself. Even though I had a wonderful time, I am very happy to be back home with my husband and support group.
Love Always,
Sarah
(click on image below to enlarge)
(click on image below to enlarge)
(click on image below to enlarge)
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Day 136
A note from Kirk...
Sarah is having a fantastic time on her Alaskan cruise! From comedians to wildlife, from the sky bridge to formal nights, there is just so much that she is taking advantage of both on board and on shore. I am happy to tell you that Sarah has not gotten sick once! Every time she calls me (which is maybe once a day for lack of cell service) she always sounds so great. I can hear my true Sarah starting to come out again. The effects of the chemo are fading into the distance and with added strength comes a confidence that I can notice just by hearing her voice. Sarah is not able get pictures to me or to write to all of you because the ship charges an arm and a leg for Internet access. I guess they have to get you somehow. As soon as she gets back we will write a post with lots of pictures so you all can see what Sarah has enjoyed so much.
Thank you all for consistently being there for us through this first phase of Sarah's treatment. I know there will be plenty of emotional issues that come along with her upcoming surgeries, but I know that chemo-therapy was the worst physical obstacle she will have to overcome. Please continue to keep Sarah in your prayers so she can regain enough strength to tackle the next step.
Thanks,
Kirk
Sarah is having a fantastic time on her Alaskan cruise! From comedians to wildlife, from the sky bridge to formal nights, there is just so much that she is taking advantage of both on board and on shore. I am happy to tell you that Sarah has not gotten sick once! Every time she calls me (which is maybe once a day for lack of cell service) she always sounds so great. I can hear my true Sarah starting to come out again. The effects of the chemo are fading into the distance and with added strength comes a confidence that I can notice just by hearing her voice. Sarah is not able get pictures to me or to write to all of you because the ship charges an arm and a leg for Internet access. I guess they have to get you somehow. As soon as she gets back we will write a post with lots of pictures so you all can see what Sarah has enjoyed so much.
Thank you all for consistently being there for us through this first phase of Sarah's treatment. I know there will be plenty of emotional issues that come along with her upcoming surgeries, but I know that chemo-therapy was the worst physical obstacle she will have to overcome. Please continue to keep Sarah in your prayers so she can regain enough strength to tackle the next step.
Thanks,
Kirk
Friday, July 23, 2010
Day 130
A Note From Sarah:
Guess what? I am officially famous! Kirk and I were having dinner with his family last night at Old Spaghetti Factory. When we were eating our dessert our waitress presented me with a restaurant gift card that a customer had gifted to me. She said they read my blog and wished to remain anonymous. When she walked away our table was wide eyed and smiling. Kirk looked around the table and said “I guess people are watching so next time I won’t scarf down an entire chocolate mousse cake so fast!” I was completely blown away that there was a reader of my blog at the same restaurant as me that I didn’t recognize. Either it’s a small world after all or my world is getting a little bit bigger.
I want to thank you Anonymous Reader for my gift card! I feel so special you picked me out of a crowd. I wasn’t even wearing my platinum blonde wig so you really must be an avid reader! Thanks again!
Love Always,
Sarah
Guess what? I am officially famous! Kirk and I were having dinner with his family last night at Old Spaghetti Factory. When we were eating our dessert our waitress presented me with a restaurant gift card that a customer had gifted to me. She said they read my blog and wished to remain anonymous. When she walked away our table was wide eyed and smiling. Kirk looked around the table and said “I guess people are watching so next time I won’t scarf down an entire chocolate mousse cake so fast!” I was completely blown away that there was a reader of my blog at the same restaurant as me that I didn’t recognize. Either it’s a small world after all or my world is getting a little bit bigger.
I want to thank you Anonymous Reader for my gift card! I feel so special you picked me out of a crowd. I wasn’t even wearing my platinum blonde wig so you really must be an avid reader! Thanks again!
Love Always,
Sarah
(click on image below to enlarge)
Special Prayer Request: Sarah’s mom is taking her on an Alaskan Cruise. This is Sarah’s first cruise and it is just in time to celebrate her completion of her chemotherapy treatment! Please pray for a safe journey and a relaxing time together. They leave Saturday and will return on the 31st. Thank you for keeping Sarah and her family in your thoughts and prayers.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Day 122
Last Chemo Day (six down...zero to go):
Monday was a day of celebration as Sarah went in for her sixth and last chemo treatment and the theme was "Princess"! Balloons, a tiara, a specially designed t-shirt, and sparkling apple cider toasts were all included in making this day special. Sarah is done with chemo!!! I can’t say enough how proud I am of my wife. She has made it through 18 weeks of one of the toughest regiments of chemo given. Not only did she make it through, as she always does, she made the most out of this truly awful situation. You won’t catch Sarah without a glowing smile on her face. Her story continues to be such an inspiration to others who are facing hardship themselves. On this last chemo day we weren’t just celebrating that Sarah had made it this far, we were celebrating the way in which she has persevered through the toughest thing in her life. As the chemo comes to a close, it is still hard to feel excited. The coming months will bring additional hardships that will definitely test Sarah’s strength once again. It isn’t easy to think about surgeries and radiation, but I know that if my Sarah can make it through chemo therapy with her head held high, there is nothing that will truly defeat her. Today I am the proudest husband. I have the best wife on the planet!!!
Sarah and I would like to thank each and every one who has supported us thus far. Not only have we never once had to worry about how to pay a medical bill, more importantly we have felt your prayers. We wouldn’t be making it without you guys.
Thank You,
Kirk
Monday was a day of celebration as Sarah went in for her sixth and last chemo treatment and the theme was "Princess"! Balloons, a tiara, a specially designed t-shirt, and sparkling apple cider toasts were all included in making this day special. Sarah is done with chemo!!! I can’t say enough how proud I am of my wife. She has made it through 18 weeks of one of the toughest regiments of chemo given. Not only did she make it through, as she always does, she made the most out of this truly awful situation. You won’t catch Sarah without a glowing smile on her face. Her story continues to be such an inspiration to others who are facing hardship themselves. On this last chemo day we weren’t just celebrating that Sarah had made it this far, we were celebrating the way in which she has persevered through the toughest thing in her life. As the chemo comes to a close, it is still hard to feel excited. The coming months will bring additional hardships that will definitely test Sarah’s strength once again. It isn’t easy to think about surgeries and radiation, but I know that if my Sarah can make it through chemo therapy with her head held high, there is nothing that will truly defeat her. Today I am the proudest husband. I have the best wife on the planet!!!
Sarah and I would like to thank each and every one who has supported us thus far. Not only have we never once had to worry about how to pay a medical bill, more importantly we have felt your prayers. We wouldn’t be making it without you guys.
Thank You,
Kirk
(click on image below to enlarge)
Monday, July 5, 2010
Day 112
Doesn’t God make you smile? Kirk and I are celebrating a clean CT scan a month before our third anniversary. God gives us blessings in the strangest packages. We never thought in our wildest dreams that two years into our marriage we would face losing each other. God has tested us to have faith in Him and I hope He is proud of His children for not backing down. I’m am not saying we didn’t have questions or that we weren’t a little frustrated...or a lot frustrated but we always knew deep in our hearts that we never, not even for a second left His very capable hands. The struggle that we face is maturing our marriage and our lives into something profound. God is using for good what the enemy is meaning to use to destroy. Our lives will not be overwhelmed by the enemy’s distractions. God has much to use Kirk and me for and I wouldn’t miss it for the world. I love serving a God who knows me. He knows my heart’s desires and has promised me something so special that tears of joy are streaming down my face as I write to you. I will be a mother someday because my God has spoken it over my life. God is good in the midst of the horrible and He rains blessing down in unusual ways. Never did I think I would be a mother to 17 embryos waiting to be born in Nevada but I wait patiently...alright I am not being patient and I am counting down the days! See He is making me smile right now! Praise be to God for He is good!
Thank you for continuing to keep Kirk and myself in your thoughts and prayers. We give praise to God for a clean scan and look to Him as we walk into the next stage of treatment. Pray with us that we have eyes to see and ears to hear our God. We love you all so much.
Love Always,
Sarah
Thank you for continuing to keep Kirk and myself in your thoughts and prayers. We give praise to God for a clean scan and look to Him as we walk into the next stage of treatment. Pray with us that we have eyes to see and ears to hear our God. We love you all so much.
Love Always,
Sarah
(click on image below to enlarge)
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Day 107
Kids Are Awesome!!!
At Valley View Middle School (Papa Hawk’s Work) there were two students who all on their own decided to do a school project that would raise cancer awareness! As part of their project these two guys decided to sell root beer floats and breast cancer ribbons during one day’s school lunches. They called the project “Hope Floats” and much to our surprise wanted to donate all the proceeds to Sarah. Upon hearing of this project, I had my guesses and ballpark dollar figures that I assumed a lunchtime event like this might bring in, but the result, I was completely floored by! In one lunch time consisting of two half hour lunches all 7th and 8th graders, these two boys raised almost $1500!!! This, of course, blew all of our minds that two middle school boys and all of their fellow classmates could do something so completely amazing. Sarah and I were anxious to show our gratitude to the staff and students of Valley View, and on the last day of school we had just that chance. The whole entire student body, as well as all staff members, were all packed in the gymnasium for the “Last Day of School Talent Show.” With some fancy coordination by Papa Hawk and those in charge of the talent show, we were able appear before everyone, explain to the students what effect this had on our lives, and give our thanks for everything they had done.
If this time is for nothing else….I could only hope that Sarah could inspire people to look past their own daily lives and if not for us…spend some time thinking about those that are truly in need. That is exactly what Valley View Middle School has done for us!
Thanks Valley View!!!
-Kirk
Thursday, June 24, 2010
The Month of June 'Ribbon Campaign' at Alfy's!
The Alfy's Pizza Corporation has graciously decided to partner with Sarah's Hope during the month of June in a 5,000-ribbon-strong fundraising event! Visit any of the great Alfy's locations listed below to donate a dollar to Sarah's Hope:
- Broadway/Everett
- Smokey Point
- Silverlake
- Lynnwood
- Marysville
- Snohomish
- Monroe
- Granite Falls
- Evergreen Express
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Day 100
A quick note from Kirk:
We are so thrilled for the great news of Sarah’s CT scan results! We are thanking God for this amazing outcome of Chemo treatments. Because the fifth Chemo treatment is knocking her strength and energy down once again, it is a little hard for the full impact of a clean scan to sink in. However, all the comments on the blog and text messages have really helped Sarah feel the joy of all her supporters. It really makes me smile when she gets a message on her phone because I know that even though she doesn’t feel that great at the moment, she knows that she is in the hearts of those who truly love her. I sincerely appreciate all the love that everyone has showed my Sarah through the hardest time in her life. You guys make all the difference!!!
We are so thrilled for the great news of Sarah’s CT scan results! We are thanking God for this amazing outcome of Chemo treatments. Because the fifth Chemo treatment is knocking her strength and energy down once again, it is a little hard for the full impact of a clean scan to sink in. However, all the comments on the blog and text messages have really helped Sarah feel the joy of all her supporters. It really makes me smile when she gets a message on her phone because I know that even though she doesn’t feel that great at the moment, she knows that she is in the hearts of those who truly love her. I sincerely appreciate all the love that everyone has showed my Sarah through the hardest time in her life. You guys make all the difference!!!
-Kirk
Alfy’s Ribbon Campaign:
Last week we went up to Granite Falls Alfy’s Pizza to see all the ribbons they had sold for Sarah in their “Ribbon Campaign.” As of today our friends Bob and Sherri who own the Granite Falls location said they had sold over 600 ribbons to their walk-in and delivery customers! Isn’t that incredible? They are having a store wide competition to see who can sell the most ribbons for Sarah. The whole staff is so excited to do anything that can help us out in any way. We really owe a great Thank You to Sherri for organizing the campaign as well as getting Sarah’s Hope donation jars at all the Alfy’s locations. Even I was kind of shocked when I walked into Snohomish Alfy’s down the street from our new house and saw a flyer about us next to a donation jar. It is neat to see how Sarah’s story has touched so many people and brought on such compassion and generosity even in these tougher economical times. We are truly amazed at all the miraculous ways that God has provided for us financially. We want to say “Thank You” to anyone who has donated to the “Ribbon Campaign” or the donation jars. A special shout out is in order to our good friends Bob and Sherri for all they do and have done. You guys really go the extra mile for us. We love you guys!!!
Last week we went up to Granite Falls Alfy’s Pizza to see all the ribbons they had sold for Sarah in their “Ribbon Campaign.” As of today our friends Bob and Sherri who own the Granite Falls location said they had sold over 600 ribbons to their walk-in and delivery customers! Isn’t that incredible? They are having a store wide competition to see who can sell the most ribbons for Sarah. The whole staff is so excited to do anything that can help us out in any way. We really owe a great Thank You to Sherri for organizing the campaign as well as getting Sarah’s Hope donation jars at all the Alfy’s locations. Even I was kind of shocked when I walked into Snohomish Alfy’s down the street from our new house and saw a flyer about us next to a donation jar. It is neat to see how Sarah’s story has touched so many people and brought on such compassion and generosity even in these tougher economical times. We are truly amazed at all the miraculous ways that God has provided for us financially. We want to say “Thank You” to anyone who has donated to the “Ribbon Campaign” or the donation jars. A special shout out is in order to our good friends Bob and Sherri for all they do and have done. You guys really go the extra mile for us. We love you guys!!!
Kirk and Sarah
(click on image below to enlarge)
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Day 99
A note from Mom Lien:
A song by Matt Redman has these words…..‘Every blessing You pour out I’ll turn back to praise’. Today was CT Scan results day and the report? The scan was clean!! We take the time right now, Father, to thank You that the chemo has worked in Sarah’s body; the tumors are gone and lymph nodes are all normal in size. Thank You that You are good and are always faithful.
In the midst of this wonderful news, Sarah was hoping/praying/believing for a release from surgery and radiation, but this was not presented as an option. We will not give up our hope, but will continue to lean on and trust in the One who has the final say.
Rejoice with us today for this blessing and continue to pray with us for complete healing, strength, and, most of all, victory through our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
A song by Matt Redman has these words…..‘Every blessing You pour out I’ll turn back to praise’. Today was CT Scan results day and the report? The scan was clean!! We take the time right now, Father, to thank You that the chemo has worked in Sarah’s body; the tumors are gone and lymph nodes are all normal in size. Thank You that You are good and are always faithful.
In the midst of this wonderful news, Sarah was hoping/praying/believing for a release from surgery and radiation, but this was not presented as an option. We will not give up our hope, but will continue to lean on and trust in the One who has the final say.
Rejoice with us today for this blessing and continue to pray with us for complete healing, strength, and, most of all, victory through our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Day 98
Chemo Day #5 - Just One More To Go…
Sarah had lots of support today at her treatment. Her visitors included Grandpa and Grandma Hawkins, Momma and Papa Hawk, Grandpa Lien (bearing gifts from Grandma Lien), Momma Lien and Sister Lien. Her chemo treatment started off well, but about ¼ of the way through she began to have some pretty bad nausea. This was kind of odd as Sarah had one pill form and one drip form of anti-nausea medication before she even began the treatment. However, this did not stop the nurse from bringing out “The Big Guns.” She promptly ordered Sarah some heftier drugs and after awhile Sarah began to feel some relief. The heftier drugs did cause drowsiness though and have made Sarah fairly sleepy for the rest of the day. I don’t know about you guys…but I would much rather have Sarah sleepy than nauseated. Sarah did muster up the consciousness to have one more good meal out before her taste buds stopped working for a week. At the restaurant, she comically added that she felt as though she had kicked back three strong margaritas. Slurred speech, droopy eyelids, and occasional clumsiness were all part of the package today. Sarah is home now and is passed out next to me on the couch. A cuter sight I could not imagine. Please pray that the nausea stays under control, that the results of her CT scan would be fantastic, and that God would bring miracles into our situation.
Thanks for All Your Prayers and Support!!!
Kirk
Sarah had lots of support today at her treatment. Her visitors included Grandpa and Grandma Hawkins, Momma and Papa Hawk, Grandpa Lien (bearing gifts from Grandma Lien), Momma Lien and Sister Lien. Her chemo treatment started off well, but about ¼ of the way through she began to have some pretty bad nausea. This was kind of odd as Sarah had one pill form and one drip form of anti-nausea medication before she even began the treatment. However, this did not stop the nurse from bringing out “The Big Guns.” She promptly ordered Sarah some heftier drugs and after awhile Sarah began to feel some relief. The heftier drugs did cause drowsiness though and have made Sarah fairly sleepy for the rest of the day. I don’t know about you guys…but I would much rather have Sarah sleepy than nauseated. Sarah did muster up the consciousness to have one more good meal out before her taste buds stopped working for a week. At the restaurant, she comically added that she felt as though she had kicked back three strong margaritas. Slurred speech, droopy eyelids, and occasional clumsiness were all part of the package today. Sarah is home now and is passed out next to me on the couch. A cuter sight I could not imagine. Please pray that the nausea stays under control, that the results of her CT scan would be fantastic, and that God would bring miracles into our situation.
Thanks for All Your Prayers and Support!!!
Kirk
(click on image below to enlarge)
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Day 97 - Father’s Day
Father’s Day was great for both sides. In the afternoon we had lunch with Dad Lien, Momma Lien, and Ellice(Sis) at Boston’s and had a nice time, fun conversation and great food! Afterwards we went over to their house and spent some more quality time together. In the evening, we went over to Papa Hawk’s house and had a family barbecue with Momma Hawk, Bethany, Jonny, and Roman. We ate entirely too much food in one day but what else are family days for? We finished off by watching the movie RV which is completely hilarious. This Father’s Day was relaxing for us and we hope it was just as relaxing for our Dads!
We Love You Dads!
Kirk & Sarah
We Love You Dads!
Kirk & Sarah
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Day 96
A note from out of town:
We flew the coop! Our life was getting the best of us and we were on the edge of going crazy so we got out of town for a seriously needed break. One of our favorite places to go for day trips and spur of the moment over nighters is Leavenworth. Because I haven’t been able to drive much since March, I couldn’t wait to get behind the wheel. (For those of you who read the last post, don’t worry…no happy couples on the side of the road were injured!) It is so beautiful in Leavenworth and the stress just melts away….usually. However, this time when we checked into our hotel and decided to take a nap after the long drive, I started reacting to the sheets and my arms and face were itching like mad. Kirk called housekeeping to try and get the bedding changed and we took a drive to Wenatchee while they switched things out for us. What a scenic drive it turned out to be. All the valleys and hills go on forever with the river gracefully nestled in between. As we returned to our room with a freshly made bed we are hopeful for an allergic free night. We are now settling down with a movie and some popcorn and on that note we say good night.
P.S. I am trying out wearing a scarf on my head. I feel so self conscience about it but it is so comfortable that it is worth the trial. I hope you like it!
Love Always,
Sarah
We flew the coop! Our life was getting the best of us and we were on the edge of going crazy so we got out of town for a seriously needed break. One of our favorite places to go for day trips and spur of the moment over nighters is Leavenworth. Because I haven’t been able to drive much since March, I couldn’t wait to get behind the wheel. (For those of you who read the last post, don’t worry…no happy couples on the side of the road were injured!) It is so beautiful in Leavenworth and the stress just melts away….usually. However, this time when we checked into our hotel and decided to take a nap after the long drive, I started reacting to the sheets and my arms and face were itching like mad. Kirk called housekeeping to try and get the bedding changed and we took a drive to Wenatchee while they switched things out for us. What a scenic drive it turned out to be. All the valleys and hills go on forever with the river gracefully nestled in between. As we returned to our room with a freshly made bed we are hopeful for an allergic free night. We are now settling down with a movie and some popcorn and on that note we say good night.
P.S. I am trying out wearing a scarf on my head. I feel so self conscience about it but it is so comfortable that it is worth the trial. I hope you like it!
Love Always,
Sarah
(click on image below to enlarge)
Friday, June 18, 2010
Day 95
A note from Sarah:
I think I am in my angry phase of grief. Okay, I know I am in my angry phase of grief. Everything seems to bother me so badly that it boils my blood. I am taking out my frustration on the people that I love the most and I think they are getting ready to take me on a cruise through unprotected waters to sell me to Somali pirates. My doctor says my hormones are being affected by the chemo so maybe I can blame all my misbehaving on just that…my out of control, terrible hormones. I mean is it that strange that when I see a couple walking the down the sidewalk I want to grab the wheel from Kirk and run them down because they are happy and I am not? Now that I have that thought out of my head and on record it does sound a little crazy and I should probably stay in the passenger seat for a bit longer.
As I am writing this I am feeling a little out of control and angry but that might have something to do with how my day started. Please let me tell you about it.
This morning I had to start prepping for my CT scan so no eating for 4 hours prior and I had to drink 2 bottles of contrast liquid. About ¾ of the way through the first bottle I knew there was going to be trouble. The oh so familiar feeling of nausea came swiftly over my body so I took a break and took a shower hoping to settle things down. The moment I got out of the shower my day took a turn for the worst and I was hanging my head over the toilet bowl frustrated that all the contrast that I did get down was wasted and I would have to start all over again. I called Kirk in a panic struck moment crying and asking him to make everything better and he started making phone calls to see what else we could do. When I was waiting for Kirk to call me back with details, I was feeling so defeated and very frustrated that something as simple as contrast liquid was beating me. I tried but couldn’t get any more of the contrast down. However, we went ahead with the appointment anyways and I had to try a different type of contrast that is mixed with apple juice. I won’t go as far as to say it was good but it was tolerable…I did however stand outside a bathroom while drinking it just in case. After I got all the new contrast down I was promptly taken back for my scan and after a whirlwind of hospital gowns, IV in the arm, holding my breath, then breathing…whoosh I was out the door. I am anxious to hear the results because when I had my second opinion the tumor had shrunk to virtually nothing and I have had two more chemo treatments to better my odds. Again I am anxious but deep down I am afraid of bad news. I have my 5th chemo treatment on Monday and on Tuesday I have an appointment to hear the results of the CT scan and to start receiving my Neupogen shots. Please keep me in your prayers as I impatiently wait. I know God has good things for me but there are some moments when I feel as if my life is falling apart.
Thank you for keeping me in your thoughts and prayers. I would not have gotten this far without you.
Love Always,
Sarah
I think I am in my angry phase of grief. Okay, I know I am in my angry phase of grief. Everything seems to bother me so badly that it boils my blood. I am taking out my frustration on the people that I love the most and I think they are getting ready to take me on a cruise through unprotected waters to sell me to Somali pirates. My doctor says my hormones are being affected by the chemo so maybe I can blame all my misbehaving on just that…my out of control, terrible hormones. I mean is it that strange that when I see a couple walking the down the sidewalk I want to grab the wheel from Kirk and run them down because they are happy and I am not? Now that I have that thought out of my head and on record it does sound a little crazy and I should probably stay in the passenger seat for a bit longer.
As I am writing this I am feeling a little out of control and angry but that might have something to do with how my day started. Please let me tell you about it.
This morning I had to start prepping for my CT scan so no eating for 4 hours prior and I had to drink 2 bottles of contrast liquid. About ¾ of the way through the first bottle I knew there was going to be trouble. The oh so familiar feeling of nausea came swiftly over my body so I took a break and took a shower hoping to settle things down. The moment I got out of the shower my day took a turn for the worst and I was hanging my head over the toilet bowl frustrated that all the contrast that I did get down was wasted and I would have to start all over again. I called Kirk in a panic struck moment crying and asking him to make everything better and he started making phone calls to see what else we could do. When I was waiting for Kirk to call me back with details, I was feeling so defeated and very frustrated that something as simple as contrast liquid was beating me. I tried but couldn’t get any more of the contrast down. However, we went ahead with the appointment anyways and I had to try a different type of contrast that is mixed with apple juice. I won’t go as far as to say it was good but it was tolerable…I did however stand outside a bathroom while drinking it just in case. After I got all the new contrast down I was promptly taken back for my scan and after a whirlwind of hospital gowns, IV in the arm, holding my breath, then breathing…whoosh I was out the door. I am anxious to hear the results because when I had my second opinion the tumor had shrunk to virtually nothing and I have had two more chemo treatments to better my odds. Again I am anxious but deep down I am afraid of bad news. I have my 5th chemo treatment on Monday and on Tuesday I have an appointment to hear the results of the CT scan and to start receiving my Neupogen shots. Please keep me in your prayers as I impatiently wait. I know God has good things for me but there are some moments when I feel as if my life is falling apart.
Thank you for keeping me in your thoughts and prayers. I would not have gotten this far without you.
Love Always,
Sarah
(click on image below to enlarge)
------------------------------------------------
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging. There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells. God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day. Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts. The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Come and see the works of the LORD, the desolations he has brought on the earth. He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear, he burns the shields with fire. Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. The LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. -Psalm 46
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Day 89
A Prayer Request from Kirk and Sarah:
Grandma Lien gave me a magazine with a quote on the back that is sitting very heavily with me. ‘If you don’t know which way to turn, stand still.’ I have been toiling over upcoming decisions for my cancer treatment. The biggest decision I have to make is what kind of surgery to have. This is a question I can ask God over and over and I still don’t feel like He is giving me an answer. I have reached the point where like the quote, I don’t know which way to turn and feel very much like I am standing still. This Friday I have a CAT scan to show how the cancer is responding to my chemotherapy treatments. It is my hope that the scan will show no cancer. I know God does miracles every day and I know He has the power to heal me completely.
Please pray with us for two things:
First, that Friday’s scan will be clear of any and all cancer.
Second, that God will give us very clear direction on what kind of surgery and treatment to do after my chemotherapy ends.
We appreciate all your support along our journey to recovery.
Love Always,
Sarah
Grandma Lien gave me a magazine with a quote on the back that is sitting very heavily with me. ‘If you don’t know which way to turn, stand still.’ I have been toiling over upcoming decisions for my cancer treatment. The biggest decision I have to make is what kind of surgery to have. This is a question I can ask God over and over and I still don’t feel like He is giving me an answer. I have reached the point where like the quote, I don’t know which way to turn and feel very much like I am standing still. This Friday I have a CAT scan to show how the cancer is responding to my chemotherapy treatments. It is my hope that the scan will show no cancer. I know God does miracles every day and I know He has the power to heal me completely.
Please pray with us for two things:
First, that Friday’s scan will be clear of any and all cancer.
Second, that God will give us very clear direction on what kind of surgery and treatment to do after my chemotherapy ends.
We appreciate all your support along our journey to recovery.
Love Always,
Sarah
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Day 85
A Little Note from Sarah:
I am sick. Not from anything to do with my cancer treatment but just plain strep throat. It is kind of refreshing! I feel like I’m normal and my body has gotten a boost of confidence saying “hey wait a second…we know how to fight off this kind of infection…let’s rock and roll!” There is a battle being fought inside me right now between the strep bug and my immune system but it is a normal everyday fight that somehow I can smile about. I have shared in the past that it is very difficult for me to ask for help but now that I’m "normal sick" all I want to do is be babied. I have asked Kirk to make our living room into the perfect recovery room all set up with everything that makes me feel pampered. Hopefully, this will be the worst day of my round with strep and now that I am on antibiotics I should start to feel better. Thanks for keeping me in your prayers.
Love Always,
Sarah
I am sick. Not from anything to do with my cancer treatment but just plain strep throat. It is kind of refreshing! I feel like I’m normal and my body has gotten a boost of confidence saying “hey wait a second…we know how to fight off this kind of infection…let’s rock and roll!” There is a battle being fought inside me right now between the strep bug and my immune system but it is a normal everyday fight that somehow I can smile about. I have shared in the past that it is very difficult for me to ask for help but now that I’m "normal sick" all I want to do is be babied. I have asked Kirk to make our living room into the perfect recovery room all set up with everything that makes me feel pampered. Hopefully, this will be the worst day of my round with strep and now that I am on antibiotics I should start to feel better. Thanks for keeping me in your prayers.
Love Always,
Sarah
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Day 84
An Update From Kirk:
Praise Report!
We have finally gotten a washer and dryer! It is so convenient. You never realize how much time something like a washer and dryer saves you until you go a few weeks without. We would like to thank our friend Karen for making it possible for us to get a Brand New washer and dryer. It was an incredible gift!!! We no longer have to pack all our clothes to Mama and Papa Hawk’s (or as we refer to it: “Our Personal Laundromat”.) However, we will miss the free dryer sheets. It makes us feel all grown up to own major appliances! Even if that seems silly to everyone, it makes Sarah happy. She wants to make wallet size pictures of “The Kenmore Twins” to show all of her friends because she is so proud! If this is how nuts Sarah is getting over major appliances, I can’t even imagine what she is going to do when we have kids. “Please Help Me!!!!!!!!”
This has been the worst 1st week of treatment so far. Her level of exhaustion has hit a new high. Spending more hours a day in bed than out is never what a husband wants for his wife. I just think if she can sleep then that must mean her body needs the rest and her body is healing. She tells me, “Kirk, I can lay down, not using any muscles, and my body still feels like I could collapse.” It is a strange feeling for her and creates some worry about actually being up and walking around. Today was her last day of the Neupogen shots, and her body has handled them much better than the Neulasta shots. So, for the next two treatments we will be continuing with the Neupogen 5-day shots. Her physical energy level is finally starting to come up which is great but there is something of concern starting to rear it’s ugly head. Since Friday, Sarah has been starting to have a very sore throat, which now has led to strep throat. Finally, the doctors at the Cancer Center gave her some antibiotics to help her body fight the infection. With Sarah’s immune system somewhat suppressed we are going to be watching her progress very carefully. Please pray that the symptoms will lessen so that she will not have to do another hospital stay on her good weeks.
We appreciate all your thoughts and prayers as we strap in daily for our wild and crazy roller coaster ride!
-Kirk
Praise Report!
We have finally gotten a washer and dryer! It is so convenient. You never realize how much time something like a washer and dryer saves you until you go a few weeks without. We would like to thank our friend Karen for making it possible for us to get a Brand New washer and dryer. It was an incredible gift!!! We no longer have to pack all our clothes to Mama and Papa Hawk’s (or as we refer to it: “Our Personal Laundromat”.) However, we will miss the free dryer sheets. It makes us feel all grown up to own major appliances! Even if that seems silly to everyone, it makes Sarah happy. She wants to make wallet size pictures of “The Kenmore Twins” to show all of her friends because she is so proud! If this is how nuts Sarah is getting over major appliances, I can’t even imagine what she is going to do when we have kids. “Please Help Me!!!!!!!!”
This has been the worst 1st week of treatment so far. Her level of exhaustion has hit a new high. Spending more hours a day in bed than out is never what a husband wants for his wife. I just think if she can sleep then that must mean her body needs the rest and her body is healing. She tells me, “Kirk, I can lay down, not using any muscles, and my body still feels like I could collapse.” It is a strange feeling for her and creates some worry about actually being up and walking around. Today was her last day of the Neupogen shots, and her body has handled them much better than the Neulasta shots. So, for the next two treatments we will be continuing with the Neupogen 5-day shots. Her physical energy level is finally starting to come up which is great but there is something of concern starting to rear it’s ugly head. Since Friday, Sarah has been starting to have a very sore throat, which now has led to strep throat. Finally, the doctors at the Cancer Center gave her some antibiotics to help her body fight the infection. With Sarah’s immune system somewhat suppressed we are going to be watching her progress very carefully. Please pray that the symptoms will lessen so that she will not have to do another hospital stay on her good weeks.
We appreciate all your thoughts and prayers as we strap in daily for our wild and crazy roller coaster ride!
-Kirk
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Day 81
A Note From Kirk:
I am so incredibly proud of my wife. She is so strong and tries so hard to fight what is going on in her body. The doctors have said that she is doing much better than they expected and I know that is truly because of the fight that she has within her. The fact that things like cancer and chemo therapy are trying to strip her of her independence gives her even more resolve to fight and not let this be who she is; merely what she is going through. I love Sarah more than I can even express with words and watching her go through this is extremely difficult, especially when there is nothing I as a husband can physically do. I find myself thinking only about the one thing I can do: to make sure that she taken care of to the highest level. Thankfully, I have all of my family to help! Without them Sarah and I would be in shambles physically and emotionally. Sarah is not only fighting for herself right now, but she is fighting for me, her family, our future children, and for all the dreams that she has - none of which she will allow cancer to steal away from her. Sarah has such incredible resolve and is completely unwilling to accept defeat. It is these traits perfectly blended with her faith in her God that I know will see her all the way through. My wife is a fighter.....and I love her for it!
Thanks for following our journey,
Kirk
I am so incredibly proud of my wife. She is so strong and tries so hard to fight what is going on in her body. The doctors have said that she is doing much better than they expected and I know that is truly because of the fight that she has within her. The fact that things like cancer and chemo therapy are trying to strip her of her independence gives her even more resolve to fight and not let this be who she is; merely what she is going through. I love Sarah more than I can even express with words and watching her go through this is extremely difficult, especially when there is nothing I as a husband can physically do. I find myself thinking only about the one thing I can do: to make sure that she taken care of to the highest level. Thankfully, I have all of my family to help! Without them Sarah and I would be in shambles physically and emotionally. Sarah is not only fighting for herself right now, but she is fighting for me, her family, our future children, and for all the dreams that she has - none of which she will allow cancer to steal away from her. Sarah has such incredible resolve and is completely unwilling to accept defeat. It is these traits perfectly blended with her faith in her God that I know will see her all the way through. My wife is a fighter.....and I love her for it!
"This is the Sarah that I still see. To me she is unchanged."
Thanks for following our journey,
Kirk
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Day 79
A Note From Ellice:
I spent the day with my beautiful sister or, rather, I spent the day "with" her apartment. :-) Sarah got some much needed post-chemo rest, and I settled in with a cup of coffee and a couple of films that I had been meaning to watch. Mid-afternoon we both had a momentary "break in the action" for a visit to the hospital for Sarah's first Neupogen shot (one of several she will be receiving to help increase her white blood cell count). Sarah held my hand tightly during the ordeal but came through with a smile on her face. (Many thanks to the kind nurse who thought to warm up the shot first in order to reduce the stinging effect!) The short hospital visit was tiring for Sarah but thankfully she is feeling well today, low energy aside. We will take each and every blessing as they come - large or small!
"...in quietness and trust is your strength..." -Isaiah 30:15
I spent the day with my beautiful sister or, rather, I spent the day "with" her apartment. :-) Sarah got some much needed post-chemo rest, and I settled in with a cup of coffee and a couple of films that I had been meaning to watch. Mid-afternoon we both had a momentary "break in the action" for a visit to the hospital for Sarah's first Neupogen shot (one of several she will be receiving to help increase her white blood cell count). Sarah held my hand tightly during the ordeal but came through with a smile on her face. (Many thanks to the kind nurse who thought to warm up the shot first in order to reduce the stinging effect!) The short hospital visit was tiring for Sarah but thankfully she is feeling well today, low energy aside. We will take each and every blessing as they come - large or small!
"...in quietness and trust is your strength..." -Isaiah 30:15
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Day 78
Chemo went well today. The only hiccup for the day was that Sarah's body had built a sheath of tissue over the port site. However, that was easily remedied by medicine given to dissolve the tissue. I know Sarah was blessed by her and Kirk's grandparents coming once again for a nice long visit. Grandpa Hawkins, having walked through this road recently, has a lot of love and compassion for his dear Sarah. Afterward, Dad and Mom Hawkins went with Kirk and Sarah for seafood dinner for Sarah's "final" good meal for the next few days as she will just want to get her beauty sleep!
(click on image below to enlarge)
Friday, May 28, 2010
A Huge Need For Kirk and Sarah:
They are in need of a new or like new matched pair washer and dryer for their new apartment. If you are able to help with this need, please send a message to sarahshope2010@yahoo.com. Thanks for everyone’s prayer and support!
Day 74
A Note From Mom Lien:
Today Sarah had a consultation with Dr. Mathes, a reconstruction/plastic surgeon at the UW Medical Center. To say that today was difficult is an understatement. She didn’t want to be there to begin with and then to face the possibilities of what surgery consists of was traumatic. Of course, all of our hopes are that she would be spared this trial……Father, please? BUT in the midst of a tough day it is always good to be reminded that Jesus, our Lord and Saviour, has gone before us in all things and is our strength and help in times of trouble. He gives His grace when it is needed! AND, He has an army that prays and we all appreciate each and every one of them!!!
On a lighter note, Dr. Mathes is doing research in certain areas and Sarah asked if he would be so kind as to also research CFS for her. Oh, you don’t know what CFS is? It is code for “Cleavage for Sarah”. Enough said on that subject!
Today Sarah had a consultation with Dr. Mathes, a reconstruction/plastic surgeon at the UW Medical Center. To say that today was difficult is an understatement. She didn’t want to be there to begin with and then to face the possibilities of what surgery consists of was traumatic. Of course, all of our hopes are that she would be spared this trial……Father, please? BUT in the midst of a tough day it is always good to be reminded that Jesus, our Lord and Saviour, has gone before us in all things and is our strength and help in times of trouble. He gives His grace when it is needed! AND, He has an army that prays and we all appreciate each and every one of them!!!
On a lighter note, Dr. Mathes is doing research in certain areas and Sarah asked if he would be so kind as to also research CFS for her. Oh, you don’t know what CFS is? It is code for “Cleavage for Sarah”. Enough said on that subject!
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Day 73 - Moving Day
Moving Day….an update from Kirk:
We are fully moved into the new apartment! Not exactly moved out of boxes yet but at least we are not half in Arlington and half in Snohomish. This morning was fun trying to find things in every room of the apartment. However, belts, make-up and shoes were finally found. I think I’m going to start wearing my box cutter on my hip just in case. It will take some time before we know right where every dish and glass is so if you come and visit expect delays. We wouldn’t have been able to get moved in so fast if it wasn’t for family and friends! The Brandes’ (Uncle Andy and Auntie Jan) came to help as well as my friend Andrew. Our regular crew was also there which includes the “mommas” and the “poppas” (no pun intended) and our sisters. Oh yes and one more special guy was there…our little nephew Mr. Roman. Thanks everyone for your prayers for a swift move before Sarah’s chemo. God has provided this apartment for us and we are so grateful.
I want to give a special shout out to Ron Spainhour. Guess what? Now we do live in Snohomish and we can be great!...If we want to….but we don’t have to. Sarah would like to throw in that we are already great no matter where we live but if Snohomish helps then perfect!
-Kirk
We are fully moved into the new apartment! Not exactly moved out of boxes yet but at least we are not half in Arlington and half in Snohomish. This morning was fun trying to find things in every room of the apartment. However, belts, make-up and shoes were finally found. I think I’m going to start wearing my box cutter on my hip just in case. It will take some time before we know right where every dish and glass is so if you come and visit expect delays. We wouldn’t have been able to get moved in so fast if it wasn’t for family and friends! The Brandes’ (Uncle Andy and Auntie Jan) came to help as well as my friend Andrew. Our regular crew was also there which includes the “mommas” and the “poppas” (no pun intended) and our sisters. Oh yes and one more special guy was there…our little nephew Mr. Roman. Thanks everyone for your prayers for a swift move before Sarah’s chemo. God has provided this apartment for us and we are so grateful.
I want to give a special shout out to Ron Spainhour. Guess what? Now we do live in Snohomish and we can be great!...If we want to….but we don’t have to. Sarah would like to throw in that we are already great no matter where we live but if Snohomish helps then perfect!
-Kirk
(click on image below to enlarge)
(click on image below to enlarge)
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Day 72
A Note from Momma “Hawk”:
We headed down to Seattle for dinner and the 5th Avenue to see our last play of the season, “Candide”. Peggy got us there safely without using the “Transit Only” lane this time. Dinner at The Purple Café was great with our play group. The ladies always have fun conversation full of tips on shoes, cruises and vacations…thanks Arva Dell, Penny and Kathy! The play was about surviving the twists and turns of life which we know all too much about these days. Thus the play wasn’t as enjoyable as we had hoped, but a night on the town with my precious Sarah was wonderful. While we were at the play, Kirk and his sister Ellice worked on getting all the kitchen stuff unpacked in their new apartment. What a blessing to have things unboxed and organized! Thank you everyone for loving and supporting my sweet daughter and son. Jim and I are so blessed and comforted knowing that so many care for our family in our time of need.
Love, Barb
We headed down to Seattle for dinner and the 5th Avenue to see our last play of the season, “Candide”. Peggy got us there safely without using the “Transit Only” lane this time. Dinner at The Purple Café was great with our play group. The ladies always have fun conversation full of tips on shoes, cruises and vacations…thanks Arva Dell, Penny and Kathy! The play was about surviving the twists and turns of life which we know all too much about these days. Thus the play wasn’t as enjoyable as we had hoped, but a night on the town with my precious Sarah was wonderful. While we were at the play, Kirk and his sister Ellice worked on getting all the kitchen stuff unpacked in their new apartment. What a blessing to have things unboxed and organized! Thank you everyone for loving and supporting my sweet daughter and son. Jim and I are so blessed and comforted knowing that so many care for our family in our time of need.
Love, Barb
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Day 71
It’s Moving Day! Well….it’s the first day of the big move. Over the past couple days we have started putting our whole life in boxes. It feels so strange to pack up when we love our apartment and neighbors/landlords/surrogate parents so much. As our time in Arlington comes to an end I am having a hard time saying goodbye. However, Kirk is thrilled and says I need to jump on the happy train and smile. His morning commute will go from 50 minutes to literally 50 seconds since we are right across the street. We were able to move everything except the large furniture and our kitchen items with the help of our handy dandy work crew. Papa Hawk and Papa Lien moved the big boxes with our cousin Nathaniel. Mama Lien and Sister Ellice helped put everything in their proper rooms so I wouldn’t have to lift a finger. Did that stop me from picking up boxes when no one was looking? Absolutely not and now I am paying for it! I think Kirk is going to have to use packing tape for my arms and legs to keep me from over doing it. Fortunately, we will only have one more “major” day of moving and then all that is left is decorating and organizing which is usually my favorite part but I have next to no energy so my sisters will have to come to the rescue. Please pray that I will have super human endurance for this next week because this move on top of chemo coming up, hospital visits, and saying goodbye to my first apartment is a perfect storm for my strength and emotions.
Love Always,
Sarah
Love Always,
Sarah
(click on image below to enlarge)
A Huge Need For Kirk and Sarah:
They are in need of a new or like new matched pair washer and dryer for their new apartment. If you are able to help with this need, please send a message to sarahshope2010@yahoo.com. Thanks for everyone’s prayer and support!
Monday, May 24, 2010
Day 70
Happy Birthday Kirk! It was his “Golden Birthday”; 24 on the 24th! He wanted to go to Claim Jumper for dinner with his family and so his wish was our command. Our night was filled with large portions, laughter, red velvet cupcakes, singing and white chocolate raspberry cream cheese pie. Thanks Mom and Dad Lien for a great birthday dinner!
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Sunday, May 23, 2010
Day 69
In the words of Ferris Bueller, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” We feel like so much has happened that we hardly even know what day it is. Being in the hospital day after day has made us feel like we were in a “Dead Zone” completely out of touch with the outside world. It was worse for Sarah because she had to stay in her room as to not get any hospital germs. She could have walked the halls while wearing a bright yellow mask but she was already on edge and didn’t want to bring more attention to herself. I was picking on Sarah out of love and told her that her hospital robe reminded me of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat.” She has been a little bossy ever since, and she calls it being “The Shepherd.” I think I’ve created a monster. Finally, we made it through and are glad to tell you that her blood cell counts are back up and she has not had a fever in a couple days. At the hospital, they gave Sarah a different kind of bone marrow boosting medication and it worked like a charm. This is fantastic news! We hope to use this new drug for the rest of her treatments but there is a catch…it is a shot that she will need to go to the Cancer Center to receive once a day for 3 to 5 days after treatment. This is a decent trade-off because her body responds well to it and there is much less pain than the Neulasta shot. Your prayers for our hospital “vacation” are greatly appreciated.
After two months of looking, we finally found an apartment! God has really set this place up for us and just in the nick of time. It couldn’t be any more perfect for us and we are so excited to start moving in. It has nearly all the features we were looking for and we have such an overwhelming sense of peace about this place. Incredibly, there’s even an elevator so there are no stairs for weak legs to climb. Our new apartment is going to be such a stress reliever for us because it is minutes from everything that we need and it is across the street from Kirk’s work in Snohomish. We have to move this week so that we can be all settled before the next chemotherapy appointment which is on June first. Thank you so much for the prayers about relocating. God does hear our needs and he provides in amazing ways!
Love,
Kirk & Sarah
(click on image below to enlarge)
After two months of looking, we finally found an apartment! God has really set this place up for us and just in the nick of time. It couldn’t be any more perfect for us and we are so excited to start moving in. It has nearly all the features we were looking for and we have such an overwhelming sense of peace about this place. Incredibly, there’s even an elevator so there are no stairs for weak legs to climb. Our new apartment is going to be such a stress reliever for us because it is minutes from everything that we need and it is across the street from Kirk’s work in Snohomish. We have to move this week so that we can be all settled before the next chemotherapy appointment which is on June first. Thank you so much for the prayers about relocating. God does hear our needs and he provides in amazing ways!
Love,
Kirk & Sarah
Friday, May 21, 2010
Day 67
Wednesday, Kirk went with Papa Hawk to the Olympic Peninsula to go fishing with a group of guys. When Sarah ended up in the hospital he was desperate to get home to his bride! As yesterday was too late to get there and back with the ferry schedule, early this morning Dad and Mom Lien hit the ferry to bring him to his loved one. When they arrived four and a half hours later at Snow Creek Resort where the guys were fishing from it was decided that perhaps this could be Kirk and Sarah’s 2nd honeymoon location. Check out the picture and see what you think! HA!
In the meantime Mom Hawkins held down the fort with Sarah at the hospital. This morning her temp was down; but this afternoon it was on the rise again so please keep her in your prayers. Kirk finally made it to his dear Sarah by 5:30 p.m. freshly showered to make sure she didn’t think something was ‘fishy’!
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Day 66
Sarah is in the hospital tonight and the doctors are wanting to keep her there for a few days to monitor her. Although Sarah does not feel sick, her temperature has been too high today. Please pray for her immune system!
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Day 65
A Note From Sarah:
I am afraid.
I am afraid of being weak, of sleeping too much, of being alone, of being on too many medications, and of falling down. Chemotherapy is continually stripping me of my strength; each time worse than the last. I am in the middle of my treatment, and I can barely walk up a flight of stairs. All I can think of is: what won’t I be able to do at the end of my sixth treatment? I don’t feel like a strong, independent woman these days. Instead I feel like a child who is a chore to her husband and family. Who is going to be with Sarah today? Who will take her to the doctor? Who will call and remind her of her medication? The silly thing is I know that my husband and family love taking care of me and would love to do even more for me. My family’s support is the reason I am doing so well yet I am so uncomfortable letting go of control and just resting in their arms. I push the limits with my body every day because I cannot face the reality that I am unable to do simple tasks. Some days my mind is the enemy. I have to remind myself that this weakness is only temporary, and I will regain my strength. Lord please let me regain my strength.
As uncomfortable as I am feeling helpless and weak I was reminded by my dad that this is a good place to be. God wants us to get to the place where we can lay everything down and rely solely on Him. I am not having fun feeling out of control, but God and I are getting closer and that is the only thing I need to strive for.
“For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, of love and of a sound mind.”
2 Timothy 1:7
I am afraid.
I am afraid of being weak, of sleeping too much, of being alone, of being on too many medications, and of falling down. Chemotherapy is continually stripping me of my strength; each time worse than the last. I am in the middle of my treatment, and I can barely walk up a flight of stairs. All I can think of is: what won’t I be able to do at the end of my sixth treatment? I don’t feel like a strong, independent woman these days. Instead I feel like a child who is a chore to her husband and family. Who is going to be with Sarah today? Who will take her to the doctor? Who will call and remind her of her medication? The silly thing is I know that my husband and family love taking care of me and would love to do even more for me. My family’s support is the reason I am doing so well yet I am so uncomfortable letting go of control and just resting in their arms. I push the limits with my body every day because I cannot face the reality that I am unable to do simple tasks. Some days my mind is the enemy. I have to remind myself that this weakness is only temporary, and I will regain my strength. Lord please let me regain my strength.
As uncomfortable as I am feeling helpless and weak I was reminded by my dad that this is a good place to be. God wants us to get to the place where we can lay everything down and rely solely on Him. I am not having fun feeling out of control, but God and I are getting closer and that is the only thing I need to strive for.
“For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, of love and of a sound mind.”
2 Timothy 1:7
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Day 61
An update from Kirk:
Saturday was the "Walk for Sarah" at Kirk's old work: Glacier Peak High School. It was organized by Sharon Sanchez, the PTO, and the Future Business Leaders of America club. To our surprise, the FBLA Club had ordered special T-shirts with "A Walk for Sarah" on them. This was a personal touch that we had not expected but were very grateful for. What a great turnout! There were 110 pre-registered walkers and more came on top of that. Once it started there was a constant flow of people just itching to get on the track. The walkers weren't only teachers and staff, but amazingly many students and whole families joined in as well. It was amazing to see that so many people already loved and supported Sarah simply because they love and support her dad and husband. After Sarah met so many of the walkers, she said it was extremely evident that the Snohomish School District is like one great big family. A teacher from every subject at Papa Hawk's work, Valley View Middle School, was represented, and even teachers from his old school Seattle Hill Elementary came to show their support. Over and over I heard supporters telling Sarah how beautiful she was and what an inspiration it has been to see her smile on the blog. On behalf of Sarah and myself, we cannot express the extent of our gratitude. The entire Snohomish School District has been such a great support to us in our time of need. Thank You!!!
Saturday was the "Walk for Sarah" at Kirk's old work: Glacier Peak High School. It was organized by Sharon Sanchez, the PTO, and the Future Business Leaders of America club. To our surprise, the FBLA Club had ordered special T-shirts with "A Walk for Sarah" on them. This was a personal touch that we had not expected but were very grateful for. What a great turnout! There were 110 pre-registered walkers and more came on top of that. Once it started there was a constant flow of people just itching to get on the track. The walkers weren't only teachers and staff, but amazingly many students and whole families joined in as well. It was amazing to see that so many people already loved and supported Sarah simply because they love and support her dad and husband. After Sarah met so many of the walkers, she said it was extremely evident that the Snohomish School District is like one great big family. A teacher from every subject at Papa Hawk's work, Valley View Middle School, was represented, and even teachers from his old school Seattle Hill Elementary came to show their support. Over and over I heard supporters telling Sarah how beautiful she was and what an inspiration it has been to see her smile on the blog. On behalf of Sarah and myself, we cannot express the extent of our gratitude. The entire Snohomish School District has been such a great support to us in our time of need. Thank You!!!
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Thursday, May 13, 2010
Day 59
A Note From Sarah:
There is something so comforting about sleeping in your childhood bedroom. All of the familiar sounds melt my worries away, and there is just a feeling of peace. It also doesn't hurt to know that your mom is standing by ready to make every wish a reality. When I finally awoke from my "Sleeping Beauty" sleep, I got to play with my adorable nephew Roman! My mom and I spread out blankets in the back yard, and let him explore the great outdoors. What fun it was to watch him try to sneak a mixture of grass and buttercups into his mouth. When Bethany came to pick him up, she had a special surprise for me: a hot pink pedicure with a side of girl talk. Thanks Sister! Every day I'm reminded what a gift God has given me in my family!
Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings.
Psalm 63:7
A Note From Kirk:
Today our friend Chris has done it yet again. He has shaved the breast cancer ribbon into his hair, but this time he went all out. Thanks Chris! We love you! This is just one case where we have seen extreme love and support from our friends. We really do appreciate all of the support, which in some cases comes in very surprising forms. Whether it be cards, cancer fund donations, or crazy haircuts, we cannot stress enough how much it all means to us. Please pray and keep us in your thoughts as you are all in ours.
There is something so comforting about sleeping in your childhood bedroom. All of the familiar sounds melt my worries away, and there is just a feeling of peace. It also doesn't hurt to know that your mom is standing by ready to make every wish a reality. When I finally awoke from my "Sleeping Beauty" sleep, I got to play with my adorable nephew Roman! My mom and I spread out blankets in the back yard, and let him explore the great outdoors. What fun it was to watch him try to sneak a mixture of grass and buttercups into his mouth. When Bethany came to pick him up, she had a special surprise for me: a hot pink pedicure with a side of girl talk. Thanks Sister! Every day I'm reminded what a gift God has given me in my family!
Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings.
Psalm 63:7
Today our friend Chris has done it yet again. He has shaved the breast cancer ribbon into his hair, but this time he went all out. Thanks Chris! We love you! This is just one case where we have seen extreme love and support from our friends. We really do appreciate all of the support, which in some cases comes in very surprising forms. Whether it be cards, cancer fund donations, or crazy haircuts, we cannot stress enough how much it all means to us. Please pray and keep us in your thoughts as you are all in ours.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Day 58
A Note From Sarah:
"Mr. Sandman...Bring Me Some Energy"
Today I slept. After I slept I had a snack to take more medicine, half watched a TV show, and then slept some more. I don't know how my body could need more sleep, but somehow it does. Ellice was at my house with me, even though I probably wasn't a fantastic hostess. I just slept the whole time and hardly even spoke a word. However, friends and sisters are always there...even on the weird days. Let's hope that Mr. Sandman doesn't make me his best friend for the rest of this week.
"Mr. Sandman...Bring Me Some Energy"
Today I slept. After I slept I had a snack to take more medicine, half watched a TV show, and then slept some more. I don't know how my body could need more sleep, but somehow it does. Ellice was at my house with me, even though I probably wasn't a fantastic hostess. I just slept the whole time and hardly even spoke a word. However, friends and sisters are always there...even on the weird days. Let's hope that Mr. Sandman doesn't make me his best friend for the rest of this week.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Day 57
A Note From Kirk:
Sarah's energy has really taken a hit and fast. Our stairs at home have become quite a daunting task to traverse, but nothing stops my little energizer bunny from going. She spent the day with her mom getting spoiled rotten with around the clock care. How great is it to have a nurse for a mother?........Priceless. Her taste buds have already changed quite dramatically and the only comfort that she gets in that department comes from her banana popsicles. It seems like when people are sick it is the strangest things that do the trick and for her banana popsicles are it. I am finding that with each chemo therapy treatment, I see my wife's stamina getting lower and lower. Sarah is such a go-getter and it takes quite a bit of coaxing to get her to stop and just rest and relax. Sometimes she overdoes it a little, but it's her love of life that keeps her wanting to do...do...do and go...go...go. I know that because of this she will bounce back very strong once she's done with this battle. Even though Sarah is extra emotional and tears are frequent, she also has so many happy emotions that also result in frequent laughter. These joyful moments, when they do happen, help us keep going and continue to have fun in the midst of hard times. For me, it is Sarah's smile that uplifts my heart when it is in need. God has been gracious and helps us forget our frustrations and focus on the good that he is setting before us. We have really felt your prayers over the last two months. I know that I, and most certainly Sarah, could not have gotten this far without you!
Thanks For Following Us!!!
Kirk
Sarah's energy has really taken a hit and fast. Our stairs at home have become quite a daunting task to traverse, but nothing stops my little energizer bunny from going. She spent the day with her mom getting spoiled rotten with around the clock care. How great is it to have a nurse for a mother?........Priceless. Her taste buds have already changed quite dramatically and the only comfort that she gets in that department comes from her banana popsicles. It seems like when people are sick it is the strangest things that do the trick and for her banana popsicles are it. I am finding that with each chemo therapy treatment, I see my wife's stamina getting lower and lower. Sarah is such a go-getter and it takes quite a bit of coaxing to get her to stop and just rest and relax. Sometimes she overdoes it a little, but it's her love of life that keeps her wanting to do...do...do and go...go...go. I know that because of this she will bounce back very strong once she's done with this battle. Even though Sarah is extra emotional and tears are frequent, she also has so many happy emotions that also result in frequent laughter. These joyful moments, when they do happen, help us keep going and continue to have fun in the midst of hard times. For me, it is Sarah's smile that uplifts my heart when it is in need. God has been gracious and helps us forget our frustrations and focus on the good that he is setting before us. We have really felt your prayers over the last two months. I know that I, and most certainly Sarah, could not have gotten this far without you!
Thanks For Following Us!!!
Kirk
Psalm 116:4-6
4 Then I called on the name of the LORD :
"O LORD, save me!"
"O LORD, save me!"
5 The LORD is gracious and righteous;
our God is full of compassion.
our God is full of compassion.
6 The LORD protects the simple hearted;
when I was in great need, he saved me.
when I was in great need, he saved me.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Day 56 - Chemo Treatment #3
A Note From Sarah...
I am half way through my chemo treatments! Yay!!! I am on the home stretch. I had an appointment with my oncologist this morning to talk about how things are going. Dr. Batson said since I had so much overwhelming pain due to the Neulasta shot, I do not have to have the shot this time. Because of this, I will need to be extremely cautious as to not get an infection. Anti-bacterial wipes will be my friend. Please pray that my white blood cells stay in the normal to higher than normal range so that Neulasta won't be needed. My treatment today went the smoothest it has gone yet. I had no complications and no immediate side effects. Praise the Lord!!! I hope this is a trend that continues throughout the remainder of my treatment. My nurse today, Marcia was fantastic. She was so accommodating and confident. I had some special visitors today. My grandparents, who just got back from Arizona, were some of the first to arrive. My grandfather also went through chemo treatments at the cancer partnership and had a chance to visit with some of the staff who cared for him. Thanks Grandpa for showing me how to fight the battle and come out a winner. Way to pass on that Hawkins survival instinct. My two girlfriends Amy and Becca, who are like sisters to me, also came to see me. They just got back from college and they spoiled me with presents. "The Regulars" (Momma Hawk, Momma Lien, and Sis Lien) were all there as well...of course. After chemo I went to my Mom's house for a few, and our friend Chris Hite dropped by with a gift for me. It was a Seattle Seahawks mini Breast Cancer helmet. We then realized it was the perfect size for my mom's dog Ullie. That made a very funny picture. The rest of the day I am just going to go home, relax, and take it easy. Thank you for keeping me in your thoughts and visiting my blog today. I feel like a superstar when I see how many people have checked out "Sarah's Hope!" (wristbands anyone???)
Love Always,
Sarah
P.S. So far we don't have enough questions for our next interview. Either we're boring or you already know everything about us, but we don't think that's the case...so bring on the questions and email them to sarahshope2010@yahoo.com.
I am half way through my chemo treatments! Yay!!! I am on the home stretch. I had an appointment with my oncologist this morning to talk about how things are going. Dr. Batson said since I had so much overwhelming pain due to the Neulasta shot, I do not have to have the shot this time. Because of this, I will need to be extremely cautious as to not get an infection. Anti-bacterial wipes will be my friend. Please pray that my white blood cells stay in the normal to higher than normal range so that Neulasta won't be needed. My treatment today went the smoothest it has gone yet. I had no complications and no immediate side effects. Praise the Lord!!! I hope this is a trend that continues throughout the remainder of my treatment. My nurse today, Marcia was fantastic. She was so accommodating and confident. I had some special visitors today. My grandparents, who just got back from Arizona, were some of the first to arrive. My grandfather also went through chemo treatments at the cancer partnership and had a chance to visit with some of the staff who cared for him. Thanks Grandpa for showing me how to fight the battle and come out a winner. Way to pass on that Hawkins survival instinct. My two girlfriends Amy and Becca, who are like sisters to me, also came to see me. They just got back from college and they spoiled me with presents. "The Regulars" (Momma Hawk, Momma Lien, and Sis Lien) were all there as well...of course. After chemo I went to my Mom's house for a few, and our friend Chris Hite dropped by with a gift for me. It was a Seattle Seahawks mini Breast Cancer helmet. We then realized it was the perfect size for my mom's dog Ullie. That made a very funny picture. The rest of the day I am just going to go home, relax, and take it easy. Thank you for keeping me in your thoughts and visiting my blog today. I feel like a superstar when I see how many people have checked out "Sarah's Hope!" (wristbands anyone???)
Love Always,
Sarah
P.S. So far we don't have enough questions for our next interview. Either we're boring or you already know everything about us, but we don't think that's the case...so bring on the questions and email them to sarahshope2010@yahoo.com.
(click on the image below to enlarge)
(click on image below to enlarge)
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Day 55
Mother's Day with Mom Lien!!!
For Mother's Day with Mom Lien we went out to lunch and then to Cama Beach park on Camano Island! It was great to get out in the sun and bask in all of God's beauty. We looked for shells, skipped rocks, and just had a wonderful time. We hadn't been there in years, and Mom thought it would be a relaxing place to take advantage of the great weather.
Mother's Day with Mom Hawkins!!!
For Mother's Day with Mom Hawkins we went over to her house for a family dinner get together Surf-N-Turf style! We had steak, clams, broccolli with hollandaise sauce, and buttery garlic rolls. Mmm...Mmm good. Spending some great quality time was just what the doctor ordered. We finished off the evening with a family movie and then all headed off to bed.
For Mother's Day with Mom Lien we went out to lunch and then to Cama Beach park on Camano Island! It was great to get out in the sun and bask in all of God's beauty. We looked for shells, skipped rocks, and just had a wonderful time. We hadn't been there in years, and Mom thought it would be a relaxing place to take advantage of the great weather.
(click on image below to enlarge)
Mother's Day with Mom Hawkins!!!
For Mother's Day with Mom Hawkins we went over to her house for a family dinner get together Surf-N-Turf style! We had steak, clams, broccolli with hollandaise sauce, and buttery garlic rolls. Mmm...Mmm good. Spending some great quality time was just what the doctor ordered. We finished off the evening with a family movie and then all headed off to bed.
(click on image below to enlarge)
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Day 54
Hello from Safeco Field!!!
On Saturday we went to the Mariners game and had a blast. Some people wanted us to take bags to put over our heads because they aren't having the best season, but we are not fair weather fans. We love our boys!!! Thanks Karen for the awesome tickets and thanks Daddy for giving them up for a little lady in distress! From garlic fries and berry white strawberries to pop flies and extra innings it was a great game to be at. Sarah almost screamed herself hoarse in the 7th inning stretch yelling, "Cause, it's one, two, three strikes you're out at the old ball game!" It is a fact that the Mariners play much better while we are at their games so if anyone wants the season to be better bring on the tickets!
Thanks for all your prayers and words of encouragement! Sarah loves checking the mail for your cards because with each one a special smile comes to her face so keep them coming. God has been so good to us and we are grateful for every blessing.
Love,
Kirk and Sarah
On Saturday we went to the Mariners game and had a blast. Some people wanted us to take bags to put over our heads because they aren't having the best season, but we are not fair weather fans. We love our boys!!! Thanks Karen for the awesome tickets and thanks Daddy for giving them up for a little lady in distress! From garlic fries and berry white strawberries to pop flies and extra innings it was a great game to be at. Sarah almost screamed herself hoarse in the 7th inning stretch yelling, "Cause, it's one, two, three strikes you're out at the old ball game!" It is a fact that the Mariners play much better while we are at their games so if anyone wants the season to be better bring on the tickets!
Thanks for all your prayers and words of encouragement! Sarah loves checking the mail for your cards because with each one a special smile comes to her face so keep them coming. God has been so good to us and we are grateful for every blessing.
Love,
Kirk and Sarah
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Friday, May 7, 2010
Day 53
A Note From Kirk:
Oh what a night! Jim, Bethany, Sarah and I went down to Seattle for a night on the town to see RAIN. If you haven’t seen RAIN –A Tribute to The Beatles you are missing out! Papa Hawk and Sarah have seen them three times in concert and they still want more. Between dancing with a packed Paramount Theater to 'Twist and Shout' and waving our hands and cell phones to 'Hey Jude' what more can people ask for? Sarah got wild on us and showed us some moves that have been locked up since the 'Summer of Love' and can you guess what she blamed it on? Her lack of a filter because of cancer is a popular excuse these days. She threw her inhibitions to the wind and danced while giving everyone a peace sign. We all had a blast and the fun didn’t stop in Seattle. I think our car ride home was just as fun sporting an AC/DC solo from Jim and more dance moves from Sarah and Bethany that created quite a stir on the freeway. How we fell asleep that night is beyond me. My favorite part of the whole night was seeing Sarah have an awesome time. We haven’t had this much fun in a while and she deserved every single second of it. We weren’t thinking about cancer, pain, doctor appointments or chemotherapy. All we were doing was enjoying the music that we love and spending time with people we love. Thank you Lord for giving us a night we will never forget. All I can say is….I am the walrus….coo coo ca choo.
Oh what a night! Jim, Bethany, Sarah and I went down to Seattle for a night on the town to see RAIN. If you haven’t seen RAIN –A Tribute to The Beatles you are missing out! Papa Hawk and Sarah have seen them three times in concert and they still want more. Between dancing with a packed Paramount Theater to 'Twist and Shout' and waving our hands and cell phones to 'Hey Jude' what more can people ask for? Sarah got wild on us and showed us some moves that have been locked up since the 'Summer of Love' and can you guess what she blamed it on? Her lack of a filter because of cancer is a popular excuse these days. She threw her inhibitions to the wind and danced while giving everyone a peace sign. We all had a blast and the fun didn’t stop in Seattle. I think our car ride home was just as fun sporting an AC/DC solo from Jim and more dance moves from Sarah and Bethany that created quite a stir on the freeway. How we fell asleep that night is beyond me. My favorite part of the whole night was seeing Sarah have an awesome time. We haven’t had this much fun in a while and she deserved every single second of it. We weren’t thinking about cancer, pain, doctor appointments or chemotherapy. All we were doing was enjoying the music that we love and spending time with people we love. Thank you Lord for giving us a night we will never forget. All I can say is….I am the walrus….coo coo ca choo.
(click on image below to enlarge)
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Day 52
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Day 51
A Note From Sarah:
Today I found myself unable to overcome the feeling of being tired. My eye lids wouldn’t stay open and the thought of taping them up sounded a little sad so couch living was my only option. Some days I feel like I don’t have any worth. I’m 24 years old and I am not able to do anything but fight for my life. I know that alone is a big job but still the horrible feeling of uselessness is there. One of my escapes from feeling this way is creating baby hats to donate to the hospital for the newborns. I have found it helps to balance out these feelings and give me a little self worth. I know that God is walking with me and carrying me on the hardest days. He will restore my youth and the things that have been taken from me. From my “Strength In A Jar” I pulled out this verse:
The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail. Isaiah 58:11
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Day 50
A Note From Sarah:
"Another Good Day"
Today was like a spa day for me. In the morning, I had my three wigs trimmed up to frame my face. Thank you Matina for the stylish new looks and great conversation! In the afternoon, I had an hour long facial with Suzanne Perry from Caffe Spa, which she gifted to me. Thank you Suzanne! What a blessing it was! My face feels so good and it was such a relaxing time. This evening, Kirk and I went over to Momma and Papa Hawk's house to help Mom with a big project for her work. Bethany came as well and brought baby Roman over too. When Momma's in a bind her girls always come through. It was alot of fun hanging out with all the family and we were all in the family room together until baby Ro-Ro had one of those atomic, up his back, diaper moments. There's nothing quite like a poopy diaper to clear a room. Kirk and I thought, "What an opportune moment to write to our readers." I thank you for all your support and prayers. I would not have as many good days wihout them. It is such a cool feeling to know that my name is being brought before our Father so many times a day. I love you all and am so thankful for you!
Love Always,
Sarah
"Another Good Day"
Today was like a spa day for me. In the morning, I had my three wigs trimmed up to frame my face. Thank you Matina for the stylish new looks and great conversation! In the afternoon, I had an hour long facial with Suzanne Perry from Caffe Spa, which she gifted to me. Thank you Suzanne! What a blessing it was! My face feels so good and it was such a relaxing time. This evening, Kirk and I went over to Momma and Papa Hawk's house to help Mom with a big project for her work. Bethany came as well and brought baby Roman over too. When Momma's in a bind her girls always come through. It was alot of fun hanging out with all the family and we were all in the family room together until baby Ro-Ro had one of those atomic, up his back, diaper moments. There's nothing quite like a poopy diaper to clear a room. Kirk and I thought, "What an opportune moment to write to our readers." I thank you for all your support and prayers. I would not have as many good days wihout them. It is such a cool feeling to know that my name is being brought before our Father so many times a day. I love you all and am so thankful for you!
Love Always,
Sarah
(click on image below to enlarge)
Monday, May 3, 2010
Day 49
A Note From Sarah:
“I have been feeling so great that I have been pushing myself too hard and probably overdoing it a little. Today my sister, Ellice (I call her “The Blog-Master”), came over to keep me company. We started out the day with silly commentary on every show we watched on TV, but my over-productivity during the last two days caught up with me and resulted in the need for a serious nap. It started out that it was just going to be an hour but one hour turned into four. Would you believe I’m still tired? I woke up to Kirk and Ellice watching some obscure movie that only Ellice had heard of called ‘First Daughter’. WHAT? Something only Comcast ‘Free Movies’ has available, apparently. (Note to all interested parties: it’s available until exactly May 26th). You’re curious, aren’t you now? I only saw five minutes of the end...but watch it…I know you’ll love it. Now we’re all sitting curled up on the couch updating my blog for you to enjoy and wondering how it got so late that we can no longer order pizza.
Thank you for being such faithful readers! Would you like to be a part of our story? Kirk and I would like to invite you to ask us some questions, if you are so inclined, and you may be featured in our upcoming interview. Do you want to know what our shoes sizes are, what kind of toothpaste we use, or what wild thing we want to do when we’re forty? You have but to ask…and please do because our 4th official interview is closer than you know. Get creative because, as we all know, I have no filter and anything goes.”
“I have been feeling so great that I have been pushing myself too hard and probably overdoing it a little. Today my sister, Ellice (I call her “The Blog-Master”), came over to keep me company. We started out the day with silly commentary on every show we watched on TV, but my over-productivity during the last two days caught up with me and resulted in the need for a serious nap. It started out that it was just going to be an hour but one hour turned into four. Would you believe I’m still tired? I woke up to Kirk and Ellice watching some obscure movie that only Ellice had heard of called ‘First Daughter’. WHAT? Something only Comcast ‘Free Movies’ has available, apparently. (Note to all interested parties: it’s available until exactly May 26th). You’re curious, aren’t you now? I only saw five minutes of the end...but watch it…I know you’ll love it. Now we’re all sitting curled up on the couch updating my blog for you to enjoy and wondering how it got so late that we can no longer order pizza.
Thank you for being such faithful readers! Would you like to be a part of our story? Kirk and I would like to invite you to ask us some questions, if you are so inclined, and you may be featured in our upcoming interview. Do you want to know what our shoes sizes are, what kind of toothpaste we use, or what wild thing we want to do when we’re forty? You have but to ask…and please do because our 4th official interview is closer than you know. Get creative because, as we all know, I have no filter and anything goes.”
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Day 48
A Note From Kirk & Sarah:
"Sarah was able to go to church for the first time since Easter, due to her pain levels. It was really evident that we have a supportive church body because so many people came up to Sarah and offered her wonderful words of encouragement (and hugs…which are her favorite).
In the afternoon, we were able to help our friends, Bob & Sherri, because they’ve done so much for us through all of this. We helped lay flooring in one of the bedrooms of their house, along with Sarah’s dad. While I was helping with flooring, Sherri offered to let Sarah take a bath in their huge soaker tub. This proved to be very beneficial for some of the pain in Sarah’s back (and Sarah loves bubbles!). Sarah’s going to try to make it a weekly event. Sarah’s mom and family friend, Elona, cooked enchiladas for everyone involved, and we had a Mexican fiesta in celebration of a job well-done. It was a great day of giving back and fellowship with good family friends."
"Sarah was able to go to church for the first time since Easter, due to her pain levels. It was really evident that we have a supportive church body because so many people came up to Sarah and offered her wonderful words of encouragement (and hugs…which are her favorite).
In the afternoon, we were able to help our friends, Bob & Sherri, because they’ve done so much for us through all of this. We helped lay flooring in one of the bedrooms of their house, along with Sarah’s dad. While I was helping with flooring, Sherri offered to let Sarah take a bath in their huge soaker tub. This proved to be very beneficial for some of the pain in Sarah’s back (and Sarah loves bubbles!). Sarah’s going to try to make it a weekly event. Sarah’s mom and family friend, Elona, cooked enchiladas for everyone involved, and we had a Mexican fiesta in celebration of a job well-done. It was a great day of giving back and fellowship with good family friends."
(click on image below to enlarge)
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Day 47
Kirk's Fun Fact About Sarah:
"Sarah's taste buds have changed. She thinks it's a nationwide conspiracy that all food manufacturers have changed their recipes (in her opinion...for the worst). Sarah never trusts that food isn't just tasting different, and she always makes one of her family members taste the food to tell her that it really tastes normal.
It turns out, one of the items that Sarah can no longer taste is basil. This might seem like an obscure ingredient to some of you, however it just so happens to be the main flavor component of two of her favorite things. Bruschetta and Pesto Pasta. So, when Sarah's brain is craving just one delicious mouthful, she knows that those cravings can never be satisfied. All I can say is, after this chemo is over, I can already see that we will have to hire an Italian chef to incorporate basil into every meal.
Thank you for all your prayers! Sarah's strength has really risen. Please pray that she is able to enjoy the rest of the second and third week before her body gets hit again."
"Sarah's taste buds have changed. She thinks it's a nationwide conspiracy that all food manufacturers have changed their recipes (in her opinion...for the worst). Sarah never trusts that food isn't just tasting different, and she always makes one of her family members taste the food to tell her that it really tastes normal.
It turns out, one of the items that Sarah can no longer taste is basil. This might seem like an obscure ingredient to some of you, however it just so happens to be the main flavor component of two of her favorite things. Bruschetta and Pesto Pasta. So, when Sarah's brain is craving just one delicious mouthful, she knows that those cravings can never be satisfied. All I can say is, after this chemo is over, I can already see that we will have to hire an Italian chef to incorporate basil into every meal.
Thank you for all your prayers! Sarah's strength has really risen. Please pray that she is able to enjoy the rest of the second and third week before her body gets hit again."
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