cancer – Page 23 – St. Joseph's Indian School

Fr. Steve’s updates

The nerves in my right leg and foot are very sore and sensitive, which makes it hard to walk or stand for very long.

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

I’m starting to get out and about a bit, even if only for a couple of hours. The nerves in my right leg and foot are very sore and sensitive, which makes it hard to walk or stand for very long. But, that’s what the doctors expected after the surgery. With time, they also expect the pain to diminish.

In the morning, I dropped by the business office to see folks. I’ve been back on campus for some 10 days now, yet there are so many folks I haven’t seen, so I did a lot of catching up.

Our summer day camps are in full swing, and I stopped by the dining hall for lunch. For these next two weeks, the camp is for children from Lower Brule.

They ride our bus in each day for arts and crafts, cultural activities, recreation and a couple of good square meals. Several of the children are St. Joseph’s students, so I got lots of hugs as I worked my way through the tables.

In between activities, I took a few naps and didn’t do a whole lot else.

I’m still very tired and pay attention to my body when it needs rest. I’m learning to cope with the limitations. A simple task like getting dressed takes lots of extra time and effort, especially putting on my socks.

The first time I was back in chapel I genuflected out of habit but found it very difficult to get back up without the pew to lean on. My foot doesn’t work so well on the brake or gas pedal of the car, so I’m grounded for now.

Yet, I count my blessings every day, grateful they found the cancer in time to successfully remove it. This healing time just takes patience and time.

Fr. Steve’s updates

Fr. Steve arrived home Friday evening (June 4), and the folks at school had two placards – complete with balloons and ribbons – welcoming me back to campus.

Sunday, June 6, 2010

Thanks to Fr. Bill for keeping everyone posted while I was in the hospital!

I arrived home Friday evening (June 4), and the folks at school had two placards – complete with balloons and ribbons – welcoming me back to campus. One sign was posted at the first stop sign on campus, and the other was at our house.

When we stopped to take a picture, 7th grader Erin was walking by the Rec Center and came up and gave me a big hug. It is so good to be back.

My main ailment right now is my right leg. The nerves are very sore and sensitive after the surgery. The doctors are hopeful the pain will diminish and I’ll get a little stronger each day. I just know I’m not going to be kicking soccer balls or field goals any time soon. I get around very slowly, but I am able to get around.

I woke up last night and had some discomfort. I went to find the nurse call button and realized I was home in my own bed and just had to manage myself. During my 11 days in the hospital I received wonderful care, but it is still a bit disorienting.

One of the hospital chaplains pointed out that we talk a lot about “One day at a time” but when you are seriously ill, you really have to live it.

Last night, I went to supper at the Sheehy Home and caught up on the activities of our eighth grade boys who are now spending three weeks in extra classes as they transition into the high school program. Nate grilled pork chops outside, and I at the biggest meal I’ve had in two weeks. It’s a good sign that my appetite is coming back.

Today was low key.

Fr. Anthony and I celebrated mass in the house chapel. It’s still hard to stand for long periods of time, and I have to build up to it.

This afternoon, I went to the office just to work on thank you cards. So many people have offered support and inspiration and helped see me through this rough period.

Staff update on Fr. Steve

I just received a call from Fr. Steve telling me his doctors want him to stay in the hospital until Friday. They want to adjust his blood clotting medications.

Hi all – quick change of plans!

I just received a call from Fr. Steve telling me his doctors want him to stay in the hospital until Friday. They want to adjust his blood clotting medications.

So, we will be staying here a couple extra days to make sure things are well and steady for Fr. Steve to come home. He is very ok with staying to make sure things are ok before we leave.

There’s another Chamberlain man here receiving treatments, and since we’ll be staying, I plan to visit with Jim as well.

Please keep Fr. Steve and all who are battling or healing from cancer in your prayers and thoughts.

As ever,
Fr. Bill

Staff update on Fr. Steve

I arrived back at the hospital last evening to find Fr. Steve doing quite well and looking forward to heading home today! There will be a few final things to put in order before we leave.

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Good day from Fr. Bill!

I arrived back at the hospital last evening to find Fr. Steve doing quite well and looking forward to heading home today! There will be a few final things to put in order before we leave.

Gratefully, Fr. Steve is now “tube free” after a week. We reflected on these past days and the many feelings and thoughts we have all been feeling during Fr. Steve’s experience. I am sure this has been one of the longest weeks for Fr. Steve, but he mentioned he will write more on all of this when he settles back at home … what great, normal news!

Fr. Steve has been meeting with his doctors and therapist to plan his therapy and exercise routine. One routine will focus on working his right leg in an effort to regain strength in it since some of the nerves were effected during surgery. I know he is committed to doing all he must in order to heal completely.

We are not sure when we will leave today, but we’re anxious to head home. Normally, the trip takes about six hours; however, it may take longer today since we need more stops than usual. In the end, it will be good to get home … no matter how long it takes.

Thanks continue from Fr. Steve for your prayers and thoughts. Your support has been a real source of strength for him. I know he will continue to count on your prayers as he returns home to continue his recovery.

I believe Fr. Steve will be writing you all in the near future!

Staff update on Fr. Steve

Many of us know when one has major surgery there can be up and down days. Thursday night and Friday were some of those down days for Fr. Steve.

Monday, May 31, 2010

Many of us know when one has major surgery there can be up and down days. Thursday night and Friday were some of those down days for Fr. Steve.

After some adjustments with his medications, etc., Fr. Steve was feeling much better. He told me he felt he had passed some difficult hurdles. I am certain having his family by his side and all the prayers being sent up for him have been a real help during his recovery.

As of today, Fr. Steve has been able to walk more; he began to eat soft foods and, quite simply, feels so much better. Having some of “the tubes” removed has certainly been a most welcome relief!

Fr. Steve has been told he may be ready to come home by Thursday if his healing continues well. I will return to the hospital on Tuesday and stay with him until we’re given the green light to head home. What a joyous day that will be for so many!

Today, Fr. Steve celebrated his birthday with two Twinkies and two candles. It seems a good enough celebration when you are in the hospital and just beginning a soft diet! We can celebrate more after he returns home.

Once again, on behalf of Fr. Steve and his family, I thank you for your Masses, prayers and thoughts for him, especially during this past week. You are all sincerely appreciated. I know he remains so grateful to you … Your prayers not only help, they work!

Staff update on Fr. Steve

Fr. Steve continues to recover from his surgery with the usual and expected side effects. He was up a few times yesterday. Today, he is taking things easier.

Friday, May 28, 2010

Greetings once again from Fr. Bill!

While I am planning to return to Chamberlain later today or tomorrow morning, Fr. Steve’s parents will remain with him until Tuesday or so. He has more family arriving tomorrow to spend the weekend with him. One of us from his SCJ family will return on Tuesday.

Fr. Steve continues to recover from his surgery with the usual and expected side effects. He was up a few times yesterday. Today, he is taking things easier. His doctors want him to have more rest before doing too much walking.

Pre-op, Fr. Steve hoped to be in the hospital 5-7 days, but the doctor told him yesterday it would be more like 7-10 days. We know how our plans change when we are in the hospital, etc!

At times, it is easy to forget Fr. Steve has had very major surgery and requires more recovery time. He is very willing to do whatever the doctors, nurses and others ask him to do.

All of us deeply appreciate your prayers and thoughts for his recovery. Please continue to pray for him, his parents and his care team during this special time of recovery.

Fr. Steve and I were with you – students and staff – in prayer during this morning’s graduation ceremonies!

Enjoy your Memorial Day weekend, please remember all those who have, or currently are, serving our country.

Staff update on Fr. Steve

Fr. Steve and his family are so grateful for the many prayers and thoughts during this difficult time. I’m sure he will be happy to see his brother and his family when they visit from Chicago this weekend.

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Fr. Bill here again …

Fr. Steve’s recovery continues to go well … praise be to the Lord. This morning he was up for the first time, took a few steps and was able to sit in a chair for a short while. He still cannot eat anything but ice chips and drink a little water. Needless to say he is not talking much because of his dry mouth.

Prayers and blessings to you for your interest in Fr. Steve’s recovery.

Staff update on Fr. Steve

There will still be another hour before Fr. Steve will be finished with surgery; then, there’s recovery time before being moved to the critical care unit.

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Fr. Bill here …

It is just about 11 PM. We just finished speaking with Fr. Steve’s main surgeon.

There will still be another hour before Fr. Steve will be finished with surgery; then, there’s recovery time before being moved to the critical care unit.

His doctor was pleased with the surgery and indicated that the mass took quite a bit longer to remove than expected. She was confident that they were able to remove it all without removing any bones, major arteries or nerves.

We thank God that there are no major complications with his surgery. As his doctor mentioned, Fr. Steve is going to be quite sore for a time after this surgery.

Due to the lateness of the hour, Fr. Steve will be transferred to the recovery hospital around midday tomorrow. He will remain in critical care until he is ready to move to a regular surgical recovery unit. We will keep you posted regarding his recovery progress.

Fr. Steve’s dad and mom continue to express their gratitude to God for the capable hands during his surgery and for the prayers of so many who have been praying for him over these past several months, especially during this very long day for us all.

On their behalf, we thank you for all your support, love and prayers. We can go home now, tired from the day and rest well with grateful hearts that all has gone as well as possible for Fr. Steve’s surgery. THANKS BE TO GOD!

Staff update on Fr. Steve

Fr. Steve entered surgery at 3:15 this afternoon. Although an unexpected and lengthy wait for the operating room caused Fr. Steve and his family a bit of restlessness, the family is now waiting patiently for an update from the surgical team.

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

At this point, it is not known how long surgery will take; there may be no news for up to eight hours.

Be assured we’ll share news of Fr. Steve’s progress as quickly as we’re able. In the meantime, thank you for keeping Fr. Steve, his medical team, his family and all at St. Joseph’s in your prayers.

Fr. Steve’s updates

I met with four of the doctors on the surgical team. My test results show no further problems, but it’s still going to be a complicated surgery.

Monday, May 24, 2010

Fr. Bill and I arrived at the hospital last night.

Mom and dad arrived today to be extra support for the duration of the time I’m here. They’ve been there so many times in the past for me in so many ways, but this will be my first surgery.

I met with four of the doctors on the surgical team. My test results show no further problems, but it’s still going to be a complicated surgery.

The biggest area of concern is what they’ll need to do to the blood vessels in my leg and nerve endings on my spine once they remove the tumor and see how much damage has been done.

They still can’t say if the surgery will take a few hours or all day. They just won’t know until they go in, and I won’t know until I come out!

While roaming the halls in between appointments, I ran into two of the couples I got to know from Hope Lodge.

Bill was in for a follow-up check up, and Robin in for a surgery of her own. I again experienced the caring bond of support that saw me through the weeks of chemotherapy and radiation.

This will be the last time I write for a while, but staff will provide an occasional update here until I’m able to speak for myself.

Thanks for all the prayers and support. It’s been awesome, and I’m confident that, with God’s help, we’re going to come through this OK.