Tuesday, February 17, 2009

5 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17


Here is an update from Tom's son, David, who -- thank goodness -- was in Phoenix when Tom was admitted to the hospital. He's been able to really help out during this stressful time.

So, just before we left (last night, Feb. 16) we were able to get him dinner. He ate well (Salisbury steak, mashed potato's, tomato soup and iced tea) and was still feeling good. His throat is bothering him a little and talking a lot probably hurts, but Tom Hanahan doesn't normally talk a lot does he? Well, needless to say, he's been talking a lot. He now knows where every doctor and nurse grew up, what there ancestry is, do they have families, siblings, where they went to college, etc.

I think the reason they moved him was because they knew he needed new people to ask questions about their personal lives ... ha ha.

As you know, today (Feb. 16) was pretty frustrating as activity was slow and information from doctors was even slower. We have been trying to be patient, but we're all getting tired waiting. Dad/Gramps is getting a little anxious and both Sandee and I are tired - it's amazing how exhausting just sitting at a hospital can be.

So after Gramps/Dad ate dinner, he was getting tired and Sandee and I drove back up the mountain to Prescott. After the dogs were fed and Sandee got some rest she called the nurses station and found out that the oncologist had finally visited and still needs the biopsy results. The nurse indicated that it will probably be around noon (today, Feb. 17) before those results come back.

Anyway, Sandee has been very strong - amazingly strong. This is really tough on her and I know she really appreciates the support she's been getting from everyone.

I'm planning on staying here until at least when Gramps/Dad has an idea what he's up against. Which, by the way we know this: He has a significant sized "mass" in his neck (2" X 1" or so) and two quarter sized lesions on his head (one on top and another around one of his temples) and they just found a small spot on one of his lungs. Without the oncologist's prognosis, they cannot put a name to the growths. He is having some problems swallowing right now and his throat is a little sore (probably from talking too much).

Sandee and I are driving back down the mountain to the hospital in the morning. We will certainly make some calls if/when we hear something as I am sure Dad/Gramps will be taking charge (as usual) and making decisions. He has been very strong, but the uncertainty he's up against is tough even for the greatest of men.

I'm thankful for Sandee's strength and that I am here for both of them in any small way that I may help.

This blog will update you as soon as we hear more later today.

(Pictured: Hanahan family at Tom and Sandee's Prescott home during Thanksgiving 2008. Provided by daughter Karen)

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