Thanks for asking about us, Nancy. I'm busier than a one-arm paper-hanger with the itch. It isn't fun. I'm chief cook and bottle washer in running my home and family who, as you know, is dealing with major illness. I've spent the last year taking over much of the caregiving as my daughter has had to cut back. It means being on duty day and night, sometimes staying awake over 40 hours. After months of this routine, I finally had to give in. You will still find me, however, up through the night and napping an hour or more here and there throughout the day. It sucks.

Stacey's last scan was good, thank G-d, the tumor was stable. We wish for shrinkage, but at least it hasn't grown in the 8 months on this 2nd line chemo. She is miserable, however, suffering from disabling neuropathy and leg pain that makes her cry. She can't walk normally and must use a cane for safety as she has fallen several times. When she has a good day or even a few hours, she is a bundle of energy, doing everything she used to do. It's these few hours that give my heart the only peace it knows.

Mike is not doing well. Parkinsons is a progressive disease, and I see it slowly advancing. His symptoms are changing, involving more of his ability to function. He has been medicated every two hours for the last 11 years, this is what keep me up all night. He no longer wants to go out, even for just a ride in the car, it's just to difficult for him. Severity of symptoms come and go with lightning speed, he can be fairly OK and then almost instantly unable to move or communicate.

Much as there are still some difficulties, thank G-d for the girls and for Bert. I would never be able to do it without their help.