Tuesday, March 2, 2010

Leslie's last project

Those of us that know and love Les know she always has a project she's working on. This latest project was to set up a website featuring her secret for fabulous soups. Once you learn her secret, you can also request a copy of a cookbook she put together called "Grandma's Stone Soup". It if full of her favorite recipes and those of her friends and family members. Check it out, there is a great video of her! Go to http://www.grandmasstonesoup.com/.

Sunday, February 28, 2010

Award from Governor

2-11-2010 Mom received the COMMENDATION for distinguished public service from Governor C.L. 'BUTCH' OTTER for her many years of dedicated service to the People of the Great State of Idaho. This certificate & letter are displayed in Mom & Dad's entry in a beautiful frame. (Sweet Aunt Denise Romriell came over as she does almost daily, saw the award & proclaimed it needed to be framed & did exactly that, had it professionally matted & framed. So thoughtful!)

Among many, MANY of her endeavours was the Lava Foundation. As referenced by this letter from Gov. Otter:
"Your many achievements are evidence of a lifetime spent changing the worked around you for the better. The fact that you have retained your position on the Lave Hot Sp[rings Foundation Board of Directors since Gov. Phil Batt appointed you in 1998 shows the confidence the Idaho Legislature and several governors have had in you. It was truly well placed.
Leslie, you have stood out among your fellow citizens in your service to the citizens in your service to the State, and your accomplishments have not gone unnoticed. You are a shining example of dedication to one's community, and i am grateful you have given your talents to Idaho over the years."

We couldn't be prouder! ~Joanne

Temple Trip

After a few rough days mom had a miraculous comeback when she learned Annabeth moved her Temple date up. Mom was far more interactive & alert. She even ate! The temple day (Saturday) was lovely. She was awake & alert through the entire session & even participated at appropriate parts. We know her angels were helping her a bunch! We all felt their love & support.
We were reminded of the strength of being an eternal family & that the connections we have with each other go beyond death. We are continually so very grateful.

Sunday, February 7, 2010

Sunday February 7, 2010

Hi friends, thank you so much for all the expressions of love & support. Mom & Dad sure appreciate them.
Mom is unable to see from her right eye & we think partially from her left eye. When visiting her be sure to stand on her left side as she won't know you're there if on her right. Also, we think she can't hear well from her right side because she tends to ignore when spoken to from that side.
Dad has developed 'their dance' for maneuvering her to or from the wheelchair. I gotta tell ya its cute!
Yesterday we checked on her after her nap (in bed) & she was sitting in her wheelchair with a huge Cheshire Cat grin! So proud of herself! Notty mommy! She makes Dad & the rest of us so nervous. She has yet to use the bike horn beside her at all times. Little stinker is still as independent as possible.
In my opinion, Dad has received the gift of interpretation of tongues as he is able to discern what Mom intends to say.
Mom continues to radiate love & gratitude to everyone around her.
Thank you for continuing to pray for their piece & comfort.
We are just so very thankful for Eternal Families!
~Joanne

Sunday, January 31, 2010

Sunday, January 31, 2010

Please come visit. When you do, please remember not to ask Leslie direct questions, but rather just talk about your day, what is going on in the neighborhood or your family. She is unable to respond verbally and needing to answer questions is very frustrating for her.

Also, please remember that Greg needs your support and love as well. Give him a hug.

Saturday, January 30, 2010

Saturday, January 30, 2010

Dear friends, We are creating this communication method to keep all of you informed as to the latest developments with our dear Leslie. As some of you may know, it is exhausting to try to keep everyone informed during a crisis like this and we feel all of our energies and attention need to be focused on Les and her comfort and needs.

We will update this blog periodically as new information becomes available so check it often. Please feel free to post notes to Les here as well. We will read the messages to her every day, so keep 'em coming!

Here is what we know so far:
Leslie has been diagnosed with a very large, Stage 3-4, inoperable primary brain tumor called a Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM). It is on the left temperal region, extends down to the basal ganglia and the brain stem, crossing over to the right hemisphere. Five neurosurgeons have been consulted, so we feel confident the correct diagnosis and prognosis have been given to us.

Her life expectancy is quite short - three to six months. She is quickly losing her verbal communication skills and has begun to have problems walking. She is, however, alert but unable to respond. If you visit please do not direct questions to her as her inability to respond is quite frustrating. Rather, just chat with her, telling her about your day, etc.

Hospice has been contacted and they will be monitoring her medical needs and symptoms. As a family, we are going to manage her personal non-medical needs ourselves for as long as we can with one of us taking a 24-hour shift during the week and then Greg taking over on the weekends.

Of course your prayers and support are much appreciated and needed, so please remember Leslie.

We thank you for all your love and prayers.