Hello all,
We're headed to the Umass Memorial today for my first 48 hour infusion of Folfox. The side effects might be minor as far as chemo is concerned. The typical nausea and vomiting will be replaced with diarrhea. Cat: I might not need you on my front steps :) For anyone who does not know me very well, I have a serious debilitating phobia of throwing up. Really, it's a problem!!! Just ask Greg.
I'm packed and ready to go. I've got clothes and books and magazines and journals and games. I've always been an overpacker. Why would a two day stay in the hospital be any different?? Greg's going to kill me when he sees how many bags I have.
I'm bringing (1)Scrabble, because I can kick Greg's butt in it, (2)Trivial Pursuit, this time the butt kicking comes my way but I love the game anyway, and Monopoly! Greg hates Monopoly and he'll probably try to find a way out so he doesn't have to play. I may have to play the cancer card so he'll sit and play :) I have to be there for 48 hours, indulge me!!!
I'm not bothered by the hospital stay. Of course, I'm thinking of the swanky luxury of a maternity room. I'm not sure where they put the riff-raff in general population. I've never had a roomate in the hospital before because I've only ever been admitted to have a baby.
If I have one, I hope she's a good one. Maybe she'll play Monopoly with me....
We're really hoping the colon cancer diagnosis is the right one--for so many reasons. The chemo is better tolerated, the prognosis is so much better, I might not lose my hair (shhhh maybe I shouldn't say that out loud so I don't jinx myself). However, if I do lose my hair, I have a wig prescription. The correct clinical term is a scalp prosthetic. And Dr. Lennes was nice enough to give me a refill so I could get two wigs!
I will not be able to post again until Friday because we don't have a lap top. Also as I mentioned we have no pictures posted yet. We're still learning how to use the digital camera. The pictures might be stuck in the camera forever. I'm still in love with my Minolta and yes I still go to CVS to have my pictures developed so I'm not going to be any help in the digital photo department.
I'm also having a hard time posting "my story" on this website. I wrote it as a Word document and now caringbridge won't save it. It was actually peeving me off quite a bit so I thought I would give it a break. I'll let you know when I have success.
Have a great few days and I'll let you know how it goes.
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 6:09 AM, CST
Kim - We - well actually you - are about to take a big step in what has been an unbelievably trying road. Your courage, humor and perserverance has been a source of strength for those around you. As you start treatment please know that I continue to believe in tow things: God and you - a beautiful wife and wonderful mother to our children. All my love. - Greg
Kim AbusheeryHolden, MA
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 6:21 AM, CST
Hey Kim -
Just wanted to leave a note to wish you well on this journey. I fully understand the overpacking - Mackenzie is the same way. She made me carry bags of stuff (seriously, three bags!!) for her first treatment and we didn't even have an overnight involved!! Funny thing is that she slept for about four of the seven hours we were there and barely touched anything from the bags that I carried!
Do whatever makes you comfortable - if that involves kicking Greg's butt in Scrabble than keep doing it. Besides, it is good for Greg to get his butt kicked on a regular basis! :-)
Mackenzie and I are here for you and wish you nothing but the best. The strength and humor that you have shown will be your greatest weapon in this battle. If there is anything that you need, please don't hesitate to ask. That includes a trip thru the closets of Chinatown - that can be considered part of your retail therapy!
Mike & Mackenzie
Michael SullivanNew York, NY
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 7:12 AM, CST
Kimbee - I can't tell you how much I admire you for still being so funny, creative and making me laugh with all that you have written - WITH all you've been through. We've always said we should be writers, you are definitely there. All my love and well wishes for you in this first step of your journey.
Love,Ellen
Ellen Gillisellenmgi@yahoo.comFramingham, MA
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 7:15 AM, CST
Hey Gorgeous -
Know I get to stalk you (a bit of an inside joke). I'm so sorry to hear about your long day yesterday and you will be in my thoughts and prayers all day today. I hope that your next two days in the hospital going thru Chemo goes as smoothly as possible. We will be Chemo Sisters, since I go in tomorrow for my day of Chemo. I wish we could be together and hold each others hands thru this, but know that I will be with you in spirit.
Sending you big hugs and lot's of love and support.
Mackenzie SullivanNew York, NY
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 7:57 AM, CST
Kim-Here goes-way to come out swinging!! I will be with you on your front step the second you need me-and you know I' m not kidding-3 AM calls work for me!!I am so impressed with your courage and continued humor and total sarcasm!! That's why we have liked each other since the moment we met!! Your own website too-you're on your way to being famous like you always dreamed!!Sending my love and hugs!Cat
catherine coltoncatcolton@charter.netHolden, MA
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 8:07 AM, CST
Dear Kim,
Michael has been updating me with your journey. Know that you have my prayers and positive vibes coming your way. I will have special thoughts going your way during your inpatient stay.
You and Mackenzie have been incredible as you face this horrific journey you are on. And who asked for such a trip. No one chooses this path.
Continued prayers,
Kathleen Sullivan
(Michael's Mom)
Kathleen Sullivan
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 8:17 AM, CST
Hi Kim, I hope treatment is going well. I am amazed by your strength and courage. You are an inspiration. You are constantly on my mind and in my prayers. Keep that wonderful spirit up.
Sending you lots of love,
Kristine MorrisonLowell, MA
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 8:29 AM, CST
Kim,
You are truly an amazing person and a source of inspiration to us all. Please know, our thoughts and prayers are with you on a daily basis, especially as you begin your journey to recovery. We are sending much love, strength and determination in your direction.
Keep that amazing spirit and positive attitude and I know you can beat this. Lots of reasons to fight on.
Love, Karen
karen gardnergardner198@charter.net
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 9:03 AM, CST
Kim,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Keep up your great sense of humor and know that your field hockey family is pulling for you.
Karen
Karen Puntillokpuntill@assumption.eduWest Boylston, MA
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 9:17 AM, CST
Kim: Keep the humor, sarcasm and irreverence, they'll serve you well. I was told in October of 1980 that I had Stage IV Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma and I probably had 5 months to live, but there was a 20% chance I'd make it 2 years. Needless to say they were off a bit. You never know what God has in store for you. Karen and I are thinking of you and praying for you, Greg and the kids. Hang in there, and remember two things: (1) God made only a few perfect heads, the rest he covered with hair; and (2) Everyday you wake up with hair is a good hair day.
With love, Kevin and Karen
Kevin LeaveyMansfield, MA
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 10:01 AM, CST
Hi Kim,
Your wit and sense of humor will take you far in your road to recovery. It's nice to see how much support you have from your friends and family. Your corner is large and we're all supporting you 100%. We're here for you Kim, even to block your ears when you throw up..wasn't that your little trick? I'm thinking and praying for the whole Abusheery/Haglund families, you will get through this!!
Love,
Alison Vigeant
Alison Vigeantravigeant@hotmail.comWorcester, MA
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 10:31 AM, CST
Hi Sweetie: You are an inspiration! Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Please know if there is anything we can do to help out let us know. We love you! Love, BJ, Chris and family
BJ Senecalbjnchriskmt@verizon.netRutland, MA
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 11:11 AM, CST
Hi Kim-
Mike Sullivan's sister here - just wanting to let you know that prayers and warm, loving thoughts are coming your way from Sandwich. Please know we're thinking of you, Greg, and the kids. No one should have to take this awful journey but please know you have company along for the ride to provide support whenever you need it.
Big hugs to you, Greg, and your munchkins.
Tricia (Sullivan), Katelyn, and Hannah Cotter
Patricia CotterSandwich, MA
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 11:45 AM, CST
Dear Kim,
I honestly do not know you but Mackenzie mentioned you her website and I had to write to you. We live in El Segundo CA and have know Mike Sullivan a long time. I am truly sorry that you are going through this but know that there are so many people that will send prayers your way for a full recovery. Stay strong and beat this.
I will ask that you be added to prayer circles.
Michele, Robert, Owen and Olivia Guilford
michele guilford
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 11:54 AM, CST
Hi Kim,
You don't know me but I have heard of you through Mack's journey, I'm her Uncle Michael.
Hope I'm not intruding on your website but Mackenzie gave us your address to your site. My family through my wife and Mack are not new to "C", each one affected is connected somehow so I would like to make a posting in your guestbook every once and awhile if you don't mind.
My sister Norma, Mack's Mom & I used to play scrabble when I lived in California, we even tried to play a few games over the internet, soooooooooo if you ever need a playing partner over the internet, I'm your man (especially if you get tired of kicking your hubby's butt, you can become world renowned in internet Scrabble butt kicking).
I wish you all the best in your journey and I am hopeful that your's will be a positive one.
Hugs (evryone needs one)
Michael Giles
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 12:57 PM, CST
Kim - please know that all your friends who came into your life as a result of Greg working at Keyport are praying for you, thinking of you, and rooting for you as you start this path. We will check in and write often. (And we'll help Greg with word docs and digital camera technology).
Scott & Kara
Scott WishartBraintree, MA
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 1:11 PM, CST
If for only a short period, I am relieved and happy to be back in the tree!
Kerry Berryklberry12@gmail.com
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 1:42 PM, CST
Kim, Though we have never met my niece, who worked at Keyport, told me about you and has asked for prayers. So, you now have a Prayer Warrior in Minnesota! I will pray for you and your family dailyt. Your spirits sound great and I pray you can maintain that. Chris Sorensen Woodside, Pastoral Minister, Divine Mercy Catholic Church
Chris Sorensen Woodside
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 2:54 PM, CST
Hi Kim -
Robin has been keeping me posted on your reports/progress with tests and diagnosis, etc. She told me that you were very positive and by the sound of your first entry she was right. What a roller coaster ride they have you on! If you don't mind I will pop in on you in the hospital -- I work on 3 west from 7p - 7a if you ever need anything or if the kids need a ride in for a visit......whatever it is I would love to help however I can. The kids are always welcome over the house too. Between my two kids and Carries they would all have someone in their age group! Keep your spirits up -- kick Gregs butt in scrabble and this 48 hrs will be over before you know it. My prayers are with you all.
Cindy Smithers725@charter.netHolden, MA
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 3:17 PM, CST
Hi Kim! Your spirited response to this diagnosis quandry is positively amazing. What a wonderful person you are. I love to play Scrabble as well-- good choice! I am imagining that you have family in the area, or I would have heard more regarding care for your children while you are hospitalized. Please, please let me know if I can take care of them for you. We'll even play Junior Scrabble!
I am thinking of you, Greg, and your kids, as this affects everyone in your family. Stay spunky! There are so many people pulling for you!
Love,
Lauren
Lauren CacelaHolden, MA
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 3:24 PM, CST
Kim -
You, Greg and the kids are in our constant thoughts and prayers, especially today as you being your journey (or what you would probably call an adventure !!). Your tenacity, courage and spirit will carry you through the coming weeks and months.
Though you'll face many ups and downs, you have to put your trust in the doctor's and your Faith in God to get you through this. Hang tough, be strong and know that there are many, many people who love and care for you tremendously.
Where there's life, there's hope. Don't ever forget that.
Kevin
Kevin Stonekevin_stone@hsb.comHolden, MA
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 3:34 PM, CST
Hi Kim,
I work with Greg and have not stop thinking about you and your family since we heard the news. The one thing I know for sure is the power of family, friends & prayers do help. Please know that you & your family are in my prayers. I hope the "prayer hands" we passed to Greg come in handy! They've brought luck to each person whose held them in their possession! Please know if there's anything you need, your family @ Fidelity is here for you.
Lori Lachancelori.lachance@fmr.com
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 4:45 PM, CST
Hello Greg and Kim,We learned of your cancer earlier this week and immediately became "prayer warriors" for your family. Keep your faith and humor Kim. Your testimony is so impressive. You have obviously faced this challenge head on and are ready for the battle. We are pulling for you and eager to help in any way we can. God Bless,Shanna, Scott, Sydney, and Grant Hauver
Shanna HauverHolden, MA
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 4:47 PM, CST
Kim - I have been thinking of you and praying for you daily. Wendy told me about your website (you are amazing in so many ways ) Do you have any idea of how many people love you and are praying for you - there really is something to be said about the power of prayer. Know that I would move mountains in your name (I guess what I really mean is I'd do anything to help you and make your life easier....) Keep that amazingly upbeat and positive spirit - that's a powerfult thing....you are a true hero.....
Patty HurleyHolden, MA
Wednesday, March 7, 2007 7:24 PM, CST
Dear Kim,
Your first word in your scrabble game with Greg should be COURAGE because you have more of it than anyone I have every met. Please know that you, Greg and your little cherubs are in our daily prayers. Remember these words:
'God never gives you anything you can't cope with.' *Rose Kennedy
Keep loving, smiling and LAUGHING like you are. Truly, that is the best prescription. Stay strong.
All our love,
Marybeth (Sullivan) & Brian Macallister
xoxoxoxo
Marybeth Macallister
Thursday, March 8, 2007 7:02 AM, CST
Hi Kim,
I thought I would check in this morning as I know you are getting your treatment and Mackenzie is going for hers this morning, so as she says "the chemo sisters" are in this together.
It is fun to see all of the locations of people on this site, since my life began in Rutland.
You have great support here providing lots of love.
My prayers and thoughts and positive energy coming your way.
Love,
Kathy Sullivan
Kathleen Sullivan
Thursday, March 8, 2007 8:07 AM, CST
Hi Kim,
You seriously still make me laugh despite all you are going through!! You are such a trooper. But seriously ,(ya think I watch a little too much Grey's Anatomy!!) we are all thinking and praying for you and your family. Your positive outlook is the best medicine!! Take care, stay upbeat. Laurine, Chris and Samuel
laurine Tetreaultlaurinepeterson@yahoo.comSterling, MA
Thursday, March 8, 2007 8:22 AM, CST
Kim,
I'm so sorry to hear about everything you are going through. Please know that we are all thinking about you and praying for you. My boss, and close friend Wendy just finished her treatment for Stage III Ovarian Cancer in September. I've seen her go through many ups and downs (losing her hair, waiting for lab results etc) and when I read your journals it just proves how strong you are and I believe that your attitude will pull you through this. Wendy recommended a book to read that she just finished called "Keep Climbing" by Rusty Fischer. It is about a boy who was diagnosed with Hodgkins at age 13 and told he had 2 months to live. 3 years later he was diagnosed with another form of cancer and they gave him 2 weeks. He climbed Mt. Everest when he was 20 years old. Just have faith. We will all have faith for you.
My love goes out to you and your family,
Cristie
Cristie Marsh Tuckertuckerisland@msn.com
Thursday, March 8, 2007 8:23 AM, CST
Kim
Jeff and I are thinking of you .. and I am here for you if you need anything. We will be praying for you , stay strong and keep your sense of humor.....Love ali
ali orne
Thursday, March 8, 2007 8:30 AM, CST
Kim -
While I do not personally know you, I have heard quite a bit through your sister Kerry - we work together at Datatron. I have walked in her shoes (both my father and nephew had forms of cancer - both stage IV). Throw out the percentages you hear and live each day to its fullest - you may surprise yourself how much a positive and focussed attitude can do. You DON'T have a choice - I am sure your family won't accept anything less. My Dad was told he had 4 months (8 months at best)...that was in 1986. Now in 2007, he is still my best friend and doesn't miss a single grandchild's activity. STAY STRONG - it's sounds like you have a tremendous family, group of friends, and support group to help you win this battle!.
With only positive wishes,
Gary Cohn
Thursday, March 8, 2007 9:32 AM, CST
Kim,
You have been and will continue to be in both my and John's thoughts and prayers. Our love goes out to you, Greg and the kids. All I can say is that there is something very powerful about the concept of HOPE. I see it with my mom and her illness, with you and with Mackenzie -- three inspirational, strong women. Continue to hold tight to that HOPE! We certainly are.
Best of Luck the next couple of days. Again, our prayers are with you.
Hugs and Much Love,
Holly Shaughnessy
Thursday, March 8, 2007 9:45 AM, CST
Good Morning Kim-I have been forwarded your story/journey from many parents at Dawson. Hearing what you and your family are going through should make each and every one of us truly thankful for each and every day! (I believe you have a wonderful future in motivational speaking!!!!!)I am home full-time and would be happy to help in any way!!!!! Please add me to your volunteer list!!!We will also keep you and your family in our prayers and have faith that your treatments progress well! This is truly a wonderful website to be keep up-to-date with your progress!!!Fondly,Jen Toppin and family
Jen Toppintoppin465@charter.netHolden, MA
Thursday, March 8, 2007 9:51 AM, CST
Kim, Just wanted to let you know that I'm thinking and praying for you and your family. Your spirit and humor are inspiring. Just having known you and your family for the short time that I have, I've seen incredible strength and determination. There is no doubt that together you will get through this and be even stronger for it.
My thoughts and prayers,
Molly Domineck
Molly Domineckmolja1978@charter.net
Thursday, March 8, 2007 11:19 AM, CST
Hello Kim,
Matthew and I justed wanted to let you know that we think you are so strong and couregeous! Also, we love that little sarcasm and humor that you have. Keep it up! Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Greg, and the children. If there is anything we can do to lend a hand, we are here!
Love, Cherie & Matthew Abusheery
Cherie Abusheerycmjabu@comcast.netWhitman, MA
Thursday, March 8, 2007 11:32 AM, CST
Hi Kim
I just want you to know you are constantly in my thoughts and prayers! You are truly an amazing and spirited woman and I thank you for letting me share in your journey.
Much Love, Kathleen
Kathleen Rochekroche@progress.comWestford, MA
Thursday, March 8, 2007 1:56 PM, CST
Greg & Kim,
Just wanted to let you know you are in our thought and prayers. If you need anything we are just next door. We can help with babysitting, meals, cleaning inside and out or anything else you might need. Since we heard about you being sick Dreah and I have putting your name on the prayer rolls in our Temple. We will keep it their every week. We know miracles still happen.
Here is what I think of the Hospital. Kim at least gets a bed ,but Greg - sleeping in those chairs just does not work. I have had to many long nights watching Dreah while trying to get a few winks in the AM.
God Bless
Greg and Dreah
Greg Bitter
Thursday, March 8, 2007 3:40 PM, CST
Hi Kim,Like everyone else who cares about you, Peter and I are keeping you in our prayers every day. I'm hoping your first treatment was not too harsh on you. I distinctly remember having a few conversations with you about OUR major fear of throwing up!! I'm with you on that, and I hope your side effects are mild.I know you're probably overwhelmed with offers of help, but if there is anything that I can do.......please don't hesitate to call! We all miss you at kickboxing (and your sister, too)!!Take care and I'll be in touch. Denise
Denise Richardsdeniseerichards@verizon.net
Thursday, March 8, 2007 4:05 PM, CST
Dear Kim & Greg,
I don't know if you remember me, but I went to Westfield State with you guys and remember Greg as a Groupleader, and remember you, Kim, from Holden and our Dad's being volunteer firefighters together.
Anyway, I work with Michael George and we often talk about life in Holden and Rutland, and he told me about your recent diagnosis. I wanted to write to offer you my words of support, and to let you know your family will be in my thoughts and prayers as you go through this journey. It sounds like you have an amazing outlook, Kim, and your attitude and humor will get you through so much in the coming months.
You've been blessed with wonderful friends and family, from what I've read in the message book. Reach out, accept their help, they all want to be there for you and help to make a difference in your daily life and your friendships will become richer for it.
Thinking of you both and praying for you.
All the best, Cathy (LaCroix) Getty
Cathy Gettycathygetty@comcast.netAndover, MA
Thursday, March 8, 2007 9:56 PM, CST
Kim,
Your positive spirits and sense of humor is inspiring. Stay strong and know that we are all thinking of you every day. I am praying for you and your family.
Lynne Mulry Whittaker
Thursday, March 8, 2007 11:43 PM, CST
Kim,
Hope: to cherish a desire with expectation of fulfillment.
This word has become a part of my family in the past 2 years due to the "c" word also. I see this HOPE in you & your words...in your family's words and your friend's words. Know in your heart there is always HOPE, it will comfort you through the rough times & good times (plus, everyone is surrounding you with it!) For you to share your story with all of us is more than inspirational!!! You exemplify what STRENGTH, COURAGE, LOVE, and HOPE is. You surround yourself with family and friends who are inspired by you. We wish we could be half of who you are...would it be greedy to ask for more? (we are "Kim-wannabes") My family & I will say prayers for you, Greg, and the kids. Please know I am just a phone call away!
Love, Wendi, Joel, Emily & Jack
Wendi Spakauskaswjspak@verizon.net
Friday, March 9, 2007 6:49 AM, CST
Haggsie,
Your courage, strength and attitude are an inspiration to all. I am so sorry that you have to go through this ordeal but am confident that you can defy the odds and beat this…I already have 9/23/2038 marked in my calendar to wish you a “Happy 70th!” while I continue to enjoy 2 more youthful days in my 60s!! J
I love you and pray for you each day – I know what a painful journey this can be but please remember that your family and friends are always here for you. The poem below is from an anonymous author – I find a lot of comfort in the words;
"What Cancer Can`t Do"
Cancer is so limited...It cannot cripple loveIt cannot shatter hopeIt cannot corrode faithIt cannot eat away peaceIt cannot destroy confidenceIt cannot kill friendshipIt cannot shut out memoriesIt cannot silence courageIt cannot invade the soulIt cannot reduce eternal lifeIt cannot quench the spiritIt cannot lessen the power of the Ressurection
Stay strong my friend –
Love,
Tracy
Tracy Corcorantcorcoran@amergent.comMedford, MA
Friday, March 9, 2007 7:44 AM, CST
Just a note to welcome you home from your treatment. Your chemo-buddy had a long day yesterday but handled things pretty well. I hope your treatment went as well as hers and you are resting comfortably.
Tell Greg to get off his butt and get you breakfast!! Just kidding - but serioulsy rely on Greg and your family and friends for whatever you need. We are here for you guys in any way that we can help.
Mike & Mackenzie
Michael SullivanNew York, NY
Friday, March 9, 2007 2:37 PM, CST
Kim,You are a truly remarkable friend and teammate. Your courage, hope and positive outlook are so impressive to me. I'm a huge believer in attitude and optimism being the best medicine to overcome great obstacles. You can do this! We're all here to help you in whatever way we can. Hope your treatment was a success and it hasn't been too difficult to bounce back from. Keep up that positive vibe and know that we're all thinking of you and praying for you. God Bless, Jaime, Brian & Justin Mariani
Jaime Marianijmariani@nrsd.netClinton, MA
