Great Weekend

Hello Everyone! Sorry I haven't written in the blog in three days but a very busy weekend and know some of you feared something went wrong because I haven't written so thank you so much for your concerns and I guess you all enjoy the blog so will continue to write updates. Everything is going fine here at our house and Terry is stronger each day -- his voice even sounds like Terry. I hope you all had a fabulous Memorial Day holiday. We had a great holiday just being home and having a somewhat routine life after the last three weeks. Terry's brother, Steve, sister-in-law, Yvonne, and their German Shepherd, Mia, drove from Chicago to spend the holiday weekend with us. We had so much fun and Terry was so thrilled to see his brother and Yvonne. Terry participated with us as much as possible. He had at least three walks each day and stayed up more frequently during the day. It was just wonderful being with Steve and Yvonne and we just laughed and talked and talked. Spent some time in the hot tub with margaritas one night and Yvonne and I had cosmos and went to Sex in the City II another night. Today, Steve and Yvonne went to Dallas to spend the day with Brooke and I talked to them earlier and they were having a blast. After Steve and Yvonne left today, we continued to have more company so a very busy day for Terry but he sure perks up when he sees his friends so thank you all for coming by -- Oh yes, and more food was brought over -- wow -- so fortunate to have friends that love to cook -- I think I won't have to worry about a meal all week now. We are really getting spoiled with the good food! Terry started talking to me about his clients and work today, and we made a list of what to do first when he starts back. This is a very good sign as he really hasn't talked much about the business or had an interest so he definitely is on the mend in all aspects. I will say goodnight now -- I hope everyone has a wonderful week -- Thanks ya'll for being such great friends and family.

Not much new to report today other than Terry walked with me last night and did quite well and walked with me again this morning and promises to do the same this evening. He is still using his cane but his legs seem sturdy. This is the last day of the steroids and we are both happy about that -- he can get some sleep and he won't be so aggitated. He had company this afternoon which was very good for him to sit up and have a conversation about something other than brain tumors. I think it will be busy weekend with brother Steve and his wife coming in as well as friends stopping by but it will be good for the whole family to not have to spend time at a hospital.

Doctor's Visit

I took Terry to MD Anderson today for his follow-up with Dr. DeMonte. It was a very interesting visit as Dr. DeMonte showed us all the MRI scans and described in detail how he disected the tumor cell by cell. He pointed out the area that still contains the tumor that he could not get at. The pathology report does record some questionable cells that Dr. DeMonte says we will be watching very closely over multiple MRI's. There may be a chance of some radiation depending how fast the MRI's indicate these remaining cells are growing but there is also a very good chance no radiation will be required. Terry was a little bit "busted" again as he already has been giving me a hard time at home about getting out of bed and doing exercise (walking). Unfortunately, I did not hear the doctor's order the day Terry was discharged so today by both the nurse and doctor they gave Terry strict orders on what he is to do each to get stronger and one thing is WALKING a little more each day and not just around our little tiny kitchen/den area! Terry was told I was the "boss" - we will see how that goes -- and that if he was going to get strong again he needed to follow instructions. They cautioned him of all that could go wrong if he didn't do certain things so his attitude upon leaving the doctor's office was quite a bit different. Let's hope it lasts -- As you all know, Terry has had a tendency to enjoy lounging around but doctor's orders are that he must exercise to get well. Let's hope this becomes a routine with him and then the sooner he will be back on his feet. The sutures were removed today and we counted - 58 so you can imagine the size of his incision. Hard to imagine a week ago today where he was at and now they have him taking walks -- the art of modern medicine -- one of the nurses commented today that this surgery 20 years ago -- he would have been in bed and hospitalized for months so really is amazing. Hope everyone is having a good day!

Terry is at Home

Our home internet is still down so a little harder to keep everyone up-to-date. I took Terry home early last night. His Dad had taken Terry down to the salon at MD Anderson to get his hair cleaned up and reshaped so when I got there he was sitting in his clothes, with a new baseball cap on his head! It was so wonderful to see him dressed and looking like Terry. The baseball cap will be his new look until his hair grows back and covers the incision. Anyway, he was more than ready to go home. Last night he did well, was so grateful to be in his own bed and I think slept quite well. He also got up joined us at the table for dinner which was quite fun and we had a nice conversation reflecting on the events of the past two weeks. He continues to have a lot of pain in the eye but it will take time to heal. The swelling this morning considerably down again so every day it will get better. He cannot even attempt to use the computer for a week, make phone calls, emails, etc. Doctors want him to just sleep and rest. If friends want to stop by, I think he will be very open to seeing friendly faces. Just give us a call, to make sure he is awake. Terry's brother, Steve and his wife, Yvonne, will be spending Memorial Day weekend with us. We are both looking forward to their visit and I think their visit will be very good for him. Something to talk about rather than just the surgery. I take him back to MD Anderson tomorrow morning already to visit his doctor and perhaps get more detailed recovery instructions so he will already have an outing tomorrow morning. We continue to get calls and cards. To many of you I have not been able to return the calls or emails but will start doing so this week. Between trying to keep up with work, Terry's clients, and the hospital, it has been hectic. Again, many thanks to you all for seeing us through this. Everyone have a wonderful day!

New Updates

Hello. Our internet has been down both Saturday and Sunday so have not been able to blog with updates. My apologies as I know some of you have worried something is wrong. I am happy to report each day is a little better. Saturday Terry had me a little concerned as our conversations were a little bit out there but yesterday, Sunday, was a very good day. The swelling is considerably down and he started to resemble himself. He was able to put his glasses on for the first time and they fit. His goal yesterday was to walk four times. We had a good conversation and he intereacted very well with his Dad and I. His voice was strong and he seemed a lot calmer not so aggitated but I have been told the steroids will do that. The pain yesterday was mainly concentrated in his eye and above the eye. His eye still looks very bad appearance wise so can imagine it is painful but it was open a slight bit. A portion of our conversation yesterday was what in the world to do with the remainder of the head he still has on his head! As you all know, Terry has or had a very thick head of hair but now it is just reduced to a thick mass of hair in the back of his head. He definitely needs some styling tips so today I hope he will let us take him to the salon at MD Anderson to get it washed and cut short as trying to brush those longer locks pulls too much on his incision. He needs a new "do" but is not being all that cooperative but hey, I have an advantage -- he can't run away from me - I just have to push him in a wheelchair and get him down there -- he is Mr. Personality to everyone around him so once I get him there he should cooperate.

Monday - A.M. Stopped at the hospital this morning in hope that Terry would go home today. Still no orders to release him yet but I really do think it will happen today. I hope so -- Two weeks ago today we received news that changed our lives -- what a roller coaster it has been -- The power of prayers and friendship have gotten us through all this -- I hope all of you are well and life is treating you good. Have a Great Monday everyone and I will keep you posted.

P. S. Terry still is talking about a celebration party so don't be surprised if late summer or so the Williams will be having another party!

Another new day on the way to recovery. Terry walked today with support of nurses and ate his breakfast in a chair. Swelling is pretty incredible still. Actually, if I didn't know better, would have apologized to the person for coming to the wrong room. Just a little startling and I wasn't prepared for that. Terry is in good spirits today -- wants to go home. More cards and calls today of "get well" wishes. Tomorrow I hope to convince Terry to let me take him to the MD Anderson hair salon where they work with people who have had surgery and need a little assistance reshaping and trimming what little hair they have left. So far, he is pretty resistant so we will see about that one. Not much else to report tonight other than things are looking quite a lot better than they did a week ago -- We are truly blessed.

Additional Comments

I just wanted to tell you that I told Terry again this morning how many friends and family have called with prayers and well wishes. He just smiled and said -- let's plan a party so that I can personally thank everyone -- well, that certainly is a switch, wouldn't you say?? so -- I guess let the party planning again. We will be married 36 years in August -- maybe I will plan a combined celebration! Have a blessed day everyone!

A Better Day

Terry was doing much better this morning. We even had a little conversation. He was going to be able to try some solid food today. His Dad is staying with him all day today so I can go to the office. Drew was also going to visit. Terry is still quite sedated and floats in and out but I know he will enjoy visiting with them when he has his awake periods. Terry is even more swollen than yesterday so kind of shocking to see him. Hardly recognize him actually, but this too will pass as the days go on. Each day will get easier from here on out. Again, what a blessing we have received and how fortunate we are that this story has such a happy ending.

Day after Surgery

A new day - Terry is still in ICU and in horrible pain as one can imagine from such a lengthy surgery - however each day from here on out will get better. He was conscious this morning and seemed to recognize us. He even tried to talk a little but did say he would take 5 back surgeries over this -- in other words pain pretty awful but he was relieved to hear the news of the benign tumor and that he will make a full recovery. I kept telling him we received a gift with this news and we need to live each day to its fullest. I do not know when he will be out of ICU but I think during this hospital stay, I am going to request no visitors as he really needs his rest to get back on his feet. I told him of all the phone calls, emails, cards and food from our wonderful friends and family and he tried to smile. I know he wants to see you all and thank you all personally for your well wishes and support. I think this means I must plan a party! What do you all think? I haven't thrown a party in a while so this seems like the perfect reason for a party. Will keep you posted on that one. Take care everyone and have a great day!

The surgery is over and we could not have received better news. The doc is 99% sure the tumor is BENIGN! Of course, it will be run through pathology but looks very good. Surgery was very lengthy - about 8 hours. Tumor was very large - size of an orange - doc says Terry has had this "many, many years". Tumor diseased the skull bone so bone was removed and replaced with a synthetic bone material. Absolutely amazing. I was able to see Terry for a very short time this evening but rest of family could not go in so will see him tomorrow. He will be in ICU at least for tomorrow but am asking for no visitors. He has been through so much and needs to rest. I am very tired so will make this short and give me particulars tomorrow after I get some rest.

Surgical Update

4:35 p.m. update. The nurse just informed us they are beginning to close. It will take an hour or so I am thinking by 5:30 or 6:00, Dr. DeMonte will come and talk to us about what they found. Thanks again for all your prayers.

Surgical Update

Surgical Update - 2:35 p.m. Nurse has informed us vitals are strong, however will be quite a while longer as tumor is very large. Takes awhile when tumor is being removed cell by cell so don't mind Dr. DeMonte taking his time - just want it out! Have received many texts and calls so thank you all for your thoughts today --

First Update on Surgery

10:00 a.m. first update regarding Terry. Nurse has just informed us that it takes an hour to get "in" through the skull, etc. -- they are now as of 9:35 at the brain and the tumor will now start to be removed. As she said an hour in and an hour out. This has my heart sinking somewhat as I keep thinking about Terry on that table but again I know he is good hands. Just the words they are now at the brain, had me a little shaken but am doing better. Keep the prayers coming -- Another update at noon. Thanks everyone for keeping those prayers coming.

Surgery Today

Terry went into surgery at 7:00 a.m. We expect to hear something periodically throughout the day and surgery should be over about 3 or 4. Terry was in good spirits -- ready to get going with all of this and get on with things. Brooke, Josh, Drew and Terry's Dad are here with me this morning. Again, thanks to all our wonderful friends and family for all their prayers and words of encouragement. I know things are going to turn out ok. I will update as the day goes on.

Monday, May 17th -- What a day it has been. Went to MD Anderson at 8:30 a.m. and left tonight at 10:00. Need to report back tomorrow morning at 5:15 a.m. - surgery at 7:30. Why they couldn't admit Terry tonight, I don't know. Dr. DeMonte says it should be over about 3:30 to 4:00 tomorrow afternoon. Terry was a trooper despite how horrible he felt today. Many long waiting periods between each test so he was able to lay in the recliners they furnish for the patients. MD Anderson is an incredible facility but a very sad place as well -- so many sick people and I kept telling myself that was not going to be us. I truly believe he will be ok. Brooke and Josh arrived today and Terry enjoyed visiting with them. Had a few laughs tonight while enjoying a late night "light" dinner since we ate at 11:00 p.m. Everyone is trying to get a couple hours of sleep and, of course, I can't sleep so am writing this blog. For those of you that called today and emailed well wishes - really do appreciate it - I just didn't get a chance to call anyone back. Will keep everyone posted after the surgery tomorrow evening. Good Night.

Today, Sunday, May 16th - Terry is resting after a rough night of pain but he is trying to hang in there until Tuesday. He isn't receiving any visitors today because he can't lift his head off the pillow but has told me to tell everyone to come back next weekend to celebrate that this all will be behind him! Tommorrow will be a very long grueling day for all of us -- MD Anderson needs us to report for beginning tests at 8:00 a.m. and the last test is 8:00 p.m. Then they will send us home and we report back 5:30 a.m. before surgery -- Really don't know how Terry is going to get through the day feeling the way he is but perhaps tomorrow will be better. Brooke will be arriving from Dallas tomorrow afternoon and this will make Terry so happy to see her and I know lift his spirits. Drew has been visiting and calling in between finals from college and working. Terry's Dad arrived to be by our side on Wednesday and he has been a tremendous help so that I can run errands, etc. and that way Terry is not alone. Terry loves having his Dad around so they sit and chat about a lot of things - his Dad makes him laugh and takes his mind off of the pain so ever so grateful he is here. Again, thanks to all our wonderful friends and family for the well wishes, words of encouragement and, of course, the delicious food we have been recieving! Yum!

Today, Saturday, May 15th, was relatively calm compared to the first part of the week. It is our first full day home since this rollercoaster started 6 days ago. Terry is resting but pain is increasing so he didn't want any visitors today. Of course, I think taking pill meds rather than intravenous meds doesn't help the pain as much. We have answered emails from family and friends and tried to tie down any loose ends. We need to rest up for Monday as pulled the MD Anderson schedule up on the computer and Terry has appointments from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Tuesday we need to be at MD Anderson at 5:30 a.m. Surgery will be at 8:00 a.m. Brooke and Josh will be coming in on Monday. Again want to thank you all for your friendship and support.

What a day this has been (Friday, May 14) spent all day at MD Anderson meeting with our new doctor - Dr. Franco DeMonte and then running to various departments for tests. Dr. DeMonte explained everything so thoroughly to us today and I know Terry is in the best hands possible.

Some good news today concerning the tumor. Terry's tumor is skull-based - this means that the tumor is outside of the wall lining of the brain. Dr. DeMonte concurred with the prior diagnosis that it is a very large, slow growing tumor which Terry has had for many years. The tumor has pushed into the eye socket and the eye is a concern so Terry spent quite a bit of time in ophthalmology today. Terry's surgery will be a full craniotomy and will last about 6 hours.

The most encouraging news for us today was the fact that Dr. DeMonte concurred that this tumor has a great chance of being benign. Of course, the definite answer on this will be once it is removed and sent to pathology but chances are good this is the case. This to me is the best possible outcome. There are some complications that can occur but if we are not dealing with cancer, we can deal with all the rest.

Surgery is scheduled for Tuesday morning at 8:00 a.m. I believe - need to actually double check that. Hospital stay without any complications will be 3-5 days so by next weekend Terry could be home and all of this behind us.

Terry will be home for the weekend and go back on Monday for a "very long day" of testing. Anyone who wants to stop by the house this weekend, please do so but give me a call first because Terry is under heavy meds and sleeps alot. The headaches are much more painful than in the hospital because the pills don't work as well as those intravenous meds. However, he has been enjoying visiting on the phone and visitors in person. Terry is in such good spirits you would not know he is facing a surgery like this.

The good news of the day certainly has lifted all of our spirits and I personally feel everything is going to turn out ok and life will even be sweeter once this is behind us. Thanks again for all the good wishes, phone calls, etc. I am sorry I am running behind on emails, answering calls etc. so hope this blog helps everyone keep informed.

NEWS From The Williams

If you are reading our blog, it is probably due to Terry's recent medical situation. He has been suffering from terrible headaches since December and has been through the typical treatments, trying to survive the pain of what he thought were sinus headaches or possibly migraines.

This weekend a particularly harsh headache arose with additional symptoms. So Sunday, Terry and I went to the ER at Memorial City Hospital.

It has been a complete roller coaster since being diagnosed with a brain tumor. We have gone from the diagnosis of an aggressive malignant tumor to that of a slow-growing, possibly benign tumor. Two surgeons say the tumor is slow growing, possibly being there 8-10 years, and a good chance it is benign. The word "benign" has certainly taken a bit of the weight off our shoulders. We respect the surgeons completely and have confidence in the medical centers here in Houston.

We have consulted various people and sources. As you know, Terry's brother, Steve, is a surgeon in his own right in the Chicago area. Steve, with the help of his colleagues were able to get in touch with the head of neurosurgery at MD Anderson in Houston and the doctor agreed to look at Terry's MRI results. As of today, May 13-Thursday, we have checked out of Hermann Memorial Hospital and will consult with a neurosurgeon at MD Anderson tomorrow and probably, if all the paperwork falls into place, have the surgery on Tuesday, May 18 at MD Anderson. Both surgeons have read the tests and concur that surgery is the only option. The surgery appears to be about a 6 hour operation and about 5 days of rehab in the hospital.

Terry is in GREAT spirits and refuses to look at this any other way than he will make a complete recovery. It is impossible for me to call all our friends and family each day so I hope that this blog will give you an update of valuable information and suffice until we are able to personally visit with you!

Love to all.....thoughts and prayers are with you and yours!