Here's another update. My mom went to get a CT scan a couple of weeks ago. She had a chemo treatment last Monday. Today she went to see her oncologist to get the results of the CT scan and to see if there are going to be any more chemo treatments.
The doctor said that she doesn't have to do any more chemo for now. But, he said that his preferred option for the next step is to do another full-blown surgery to remove part of her liver again. This is the first time he's brought up surgery. In her previous appointments he mentioned radioactive pellets inserted into the liver and radiowave ablation as option. Needless to say, the surgery news is somewhat shocking and concerning. He told my mom that surgery gives her the best chance of staying away from chemo and other treatments for the longest period of time. The last time she had surgery, it was almost a year before cancer showed up again.
That's about it from here. They are meeting on Nov. 2 to determine the specifics on the surgery. I'll update when I know anything else.
- C
Monday, September 28, 2009
Monday, August 31, 2009
Quick Update
Just got back from a great visit to Texas. I enjoyed seeing many of my friends.
Anyway, my mom had a doctor's appointment today. The oncologist said that her cancer marker number has gone way down with the chemo regimen she's on. He said that he wants her to do two more treatments and then they will do a CT scan to determine the next steps. So, it is good news so far. My mom is upbeat about it, since the chemo is working.
- C
Anyway, my mom had a doctor's appointment today. The oncologist said that her cancer marker number has gone way down with the chemo regimen she's on. He said that he wants her to do two more treatments and then they will do a CT scan to determine the next steps. So, it is good news so far. My mom is upbeat about it, since the chemo is working.
- C
Monday, August 24, 2009
The end
My last post was on July 27th. In that post, I mentioned that my grandmother had been informed that she had a maximum of six months to live. Well, it turns out that was a very generous estimate. She passed away on August 16th, about three weeks later.
My aunt called in Hospice on Friday, Aug. 14th, when it became apparent that the pain was getting worse and she needed more intense treatment. They came and let us know that she didn't have much time left, and if we wanted to talk to her, we needed to do so immediately. She continued to speak with us well into Saturday, Aug. 15th. By Saturday night, she was no longer talking. She was on pain medicine and her breathing was shallow.
On Sunday morning, at about 9:30 a.m., she drew her last breath, just about the time she'd normally be starting church. It was a beautiful, sunny morning. My grandpa had decided earlier that he was not going to church on that morning, but he went on to get his church clothes on, splash on some cologne, etc. After she died, I realized that he knew that she wouldn't be there after that day. He got dressed up to see her off. I found out later that both he and my mom had prayed earlier that morning for a quick end to her suffering.
My grandpa, mom, aunt, two uncles, two cousins and myself were all there when she died. It was very peaceful - no laboring, no gasping, etc. I know my grandma was so tired of hospitals, so it was fitting that she was able to die at home.
We had her viewing this past Wednesday evening. There were well over 500 people there. She touched a ton of people in her life. She was the epitome of a good person. The funeral was held on Thursday afternoon. Everything was perfect. The sermon, the flowers, the casket - everything. I was able to help with some of the services. I wrote the obituary, put together a picture slideshow and created the CDs with the music for the service.
The forecast called for rain all day, but when we made our way to the cemetery for the graveside service, the sun was shining brightly and all was well. We then made our way to her church, where they had prepared a meal for the family and friends. As we were finishing up at the church, it started to pour outside. This lasted for five minutes or so. Afterward, everyone began making their way to the cars. We noticed a double rainbow. It seemed to be almost pointing at the church at one end. the other end seemed to be going to the cemetery and it was visible for more than 10 minutes. It almost seemed like she was telling us goodbye and letting us know she was okay.
I spent the better part of the week before she passed at her house. In fact, I've spent a lot of time with her over the past three years, since I moved back to Ohio from Texas. I feel so lucky that I was able to be around her so much. I see now just how important it was that I make the move. I miss all of my friends dearly, but family is just too important to ignore.
My aunt called in Hospice on Friday, Aug. 14th, when it became apparent that the pain was getting worse and she needed more intense treatment. They came and let us know that she didn't have much time left, and if we wanted to talk to her, we needed to do so immediately. She continued to speak with us well into Saturday, Aug. 15th. By Saturday night, she was no longer talking. She was on pain medicine and her breathing was shallow.
On Sunday morning, at about 9:30 a.m., she drew her last breath, just about the time she'd normally be starting church. It was a beautiful, sunny morning. My grandpa had decided earlier that he was not going to church on that morning, but he went on to get his church clothes on, splash on some cologne, etc. After she died, I realized that he knew that she wouldn't be there after that day. He got dressed up to see her off. I found out later that both he and my mom had prayed earlier that morning for a quick end to her suffering.
My grandpa, mom, aunt, two uncles, two cousins and myself were all there when she died. It was very peaceful - no laboring, no gasping, etc. I know my grandma was so tired of hospitals, so it was fitting that she was able to die at home.
We had her viewing this past Wednesday evening. There were well over 500 people there. She touched a ton of people in her life. She was the epitome of a good person. The funeral was held on Thursday afternoon. Everything was perfect. The sermon, the flowers, the casket - everything. I was able to help with some of the services. I wrote the obituary, put together a picture slideshow and created the CDs with the music for the service.
The forecast called for rain all day, but when we made our way to the cemetery for the graveside service, the sun was shining brightly and all was well. We then made our way to her church, where they had prepared a meal for the family and friends. As we were finishing up at the church, it started to pour outside. This lasted for five minutes or so. Afterward, everyone began making their way to the cars. We noticed a double rainbow. It seemed to be almost pointing at the church at one end. the other end seemed to be going to the cemetery and it was visible for more than 10 minutes. It almost seemed like she was telling us goodbye and letting us know she was okay.
I spent the better part of the week before she passed at her house. In fact, I've spent a lot of time with her over the past three years, since I moved back to Ohio from Texas. I feel so lucky that I was able to be around her so much. I see now just how important it was that I make the move. I miss all of my friends dearly, but family is just too important to ignore.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Two posts in one day - What?
I actually wish I weren't posting a second update today. I got a call from my aunt a few hours ago and she said she had been talking to my grandpa and he got a call from my grandma's oncologist today. Basically, the cancer has taken over the liver and there is nothing they can do. Best estimate is she may have six months to live. It was a very sobering moment for me. I was the first grandchild and she has been a huge part of my life. I can't hardly imagine a world where she isn't there.
My mom wasn't home when my aunt called, so I had to inform her when she got back. That is not something I ever wanted to or imagined telling my mom. She handled it like a champ - we've all known for a while that my grandma's time here is coming to an end, but it seems like such a finality when they put a timestamp on it.
My mom wasn't home when my aunt called, so I had to inform her when she got back. That is not something I ever wanted to or imagined telling my mom. She handled it like a champ - we've all known for a while that my grandma's time here is coming to an end, but it seems like such a finality when they put a timestamp on it.
Yet another update
This is like the third update this month - I'm on a roll!
My mom is doing great. She pushed her next chemo back a week, due to a scheduling conflict, but I feel that she's got some great confidence going into the rest of her treatment schedule, as this last round didn't knock her down as badly as in the past. She'll be doing the next treatment on Mon., Aug. 3.
My grandma is at home now. I wouldn't say she's doing great, but she is stable. She has a hard time eating because everything makes her sick and she has stated that she will be doing no more chemo, so I guess that means she is not going to get any better.
My dad's dad is now in a nursing home and he has been listed as "terminal." I assume that means that his organs have no hope for lasting much longer. He is sometimes like his old self and then sometimes not lucid at all. It is quite hard to see.
My aunt is pretty much back to normal. She's still got some pain, but she doesn't let it stop her from getting out and about.
In happier news, I'm planning a trip to Dallas in late August. I'm so looking forward to good times with friends and just getting out of this healthcare haze for a few days.
That's all from here for now.
- C
My mom is doing great. She pushed her next chemo back a week, due to a scheduling conflict, but I feel that she's got some great confidence going into the rest of her treatment schedule, as this last round didn't knock her down as badly as in the past. She'll be doing the next treatment on Mon., Aug. 3.
My grandma is at home now. I wouldn't say she's doing great, but she is stable. She has a hard time eating because everything makes her sick and she has stated that she will be doing no more chemo, so I guess that means she is not going to get any better.
My dad's dad is now in a nursing home and he has been listed as "terminal." I assume that means that his organs have no hope for lasting much longer. He is sometimes like his old self and then sometimes not lucid at all. It is quite hard to see.
My aunt is pretty much back to normal. She's still got some pain, but she doesn't let it stop her from getting out and about.
In happier news, I'm planning a trip to Dallas in late August. I'm so looking forward to good times with friends and just getting out of this healthcare haze for a few days.
That's all from here for now.
- C
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Some more updates
Just a quick update.
My grandma is still in the hospital. They seem to be figuring out what all is wrong in Columbus much better than they did at her small, hometown hospital. They said she may get out on Sunday, but we'll see.
My aunt is doing great after her colon surgery - she's probably getting out of the hospital tomorrow to continue recuperating at home.
My mom had her chemo this week and they came to take her infusion pump off on Thursday morning. She did really well this time around and she's feeling tired, but otherwise, pretty good.
My grandpa (on my dad's side) was admitted to the hospital on Thursday, with what they initially thought may be a heart attack. They've since ruled out the heart attack, but it seems that he's in poor shape and may be on his last leg. We'll have to see what happens there.
That's about it from here. I'm a bit overwhelmed, but I figure I'll make it through it. I'll update again soon.
- C
My grandma is still in the hospital. They seem to be figuring out what all is wrong in Columbus much better than they did at her small, hometown hospital. They said she may get out on Sunday, but we'll see.
My aunt is doing great after her colon surgery - she's probably getting out of the hospital tomorrow to continue recuperating at home.
My mom had her chemo this week and they came to take her infusion pump off on Thursday morning. She did really well this time around and she's feeling tired, but otherwise, pretty good.
My grandpa (on my dad's side) was admitted to the hospital on Thursday, with what they initially thought may be a heart attack. They've since ruled out the heart attack, but it seems that he's in poor shape and may be on his last leg. We'll have to see what happens there.
That's about it from here. I'm a bit overwhelmed, but I figure I'll make it through it. I'll update again soon.
- C
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Update
Hello all. Just a quick update (see - I'm trying to do better - it hasn't been three months between updates this time).
Mom starts chemo on Tuesday. She was supposed to start last Monday, but ended up getting a sinus infection the week before, so she wasn't able to do chemo while on antibiotics. The plan at the moment is four treatments, then evaluate for the next steps. Hopefully something minimally invasive.
My grandma isn't doing so hot. She's been in the hospital since Wednesday. Her magnesium and potassium levels are very low and she was very fatigued. The oncolgist says it is from her chemo which she is temporarily off of because of this stuff. This is the second or third time she's been in the hospital since my last update.
My aunt is having surgery on Tuesday for divreticulitis, which is a colon inflamation disorder. They will be removing a portion of her colon, so it is a pretty major surgery. I'm planning on going to the hospital to stay while it is taking place, since my mom will not be able to, due to the chemo treatment that day.
Still job hunting. I've sent out several resumes lately, but no bites. I believe the competition is super furious right now. I've been doing a bit of merchandising and other independent contractor work for the past month or so, trying to make a little money, so at least it is something to do.
The only other thing of note is that I've recently purchased a domain name and I'm working on a website. Pretty much just something for fun. Once I get it going, I'll be sure to post a link so you can all come visit!
That's all for now. See you peeps later!
- C
Mom starts chemo on Tuesday. She was supposed to start last Monday, but ended up getting a sinus infection the week before, so she wasn't able to do chemo while on antibiotics. The plan at the moment is four treatments, then evaluate for the next steps. Hopefully something minimally invasive.
My grandma isn't doing so hot. She's been in the hospital since Wednesday. Her magnesium and potassium levels are very low and she was very fatigued. The oncolgist says it is from her chemo which she is temporarily off of because of this stuff. This is the second or third time she's been in the hospital since my last update.
My aunt is having surgery on Tuesday for divreticulitis, which is a colon inflamation disorder. They will be removing a portion of her colon, so it is a pretty major surgery. I'm planning on going to the hospital to stay while it is taking place, since my mom will not be able to, due to the chemo treatment that day.
Still job hunting. I've sent out several resumes lately, but no bites. I believe the competition is super furious right now. I've been doing a bit of merchandising and other independent contractor work for the past month or so, trying to make a little money, so at least it is something to do.
The only other thing of note is that I've recently purchased a domain name and I'm working on a website. Pretty much just something for fun. Once I get it going, I'll be sure to post a link so you can all come visit!
That's all for now. See you peeps later!
- C
Sunday, June 21, 2009
An update aka I suck at blogging
Good afternoon good readers, if there are any of you left. Firstly, I am here to admit that I am a terrible blogger, especially during warmer months. Secondly, I do have some updates.
My mom is still doing well after her stroke and series of seizures. She has seen the neurologist twice since late-February when all of that happened. They said she is doing great, and actually cleared her to drive again (initially we were told at least a year for that). She went to see her oncologist last week and they indicated that her latest blood work showed that the cancer marker has begun rising again, so she is beginning chemo again in two weeks. She'll do that for about two months and then there is a possibility that they will implant radioactive seeds into the cancerous area to try to eradicate it. All of that sounds much better than another major surgery. She seems to be doing fine with this news. That may be because she is leaving tomorrow for a resort in the Dominican Republic for five days with my dad. Party at my place - who hoo!!
My grandmother is currently receiving chemo for her pancreatic cancer, but her oncologist has warned how deadly the disease is and that this is basically just a treatment to see if she can maintain her current health, not a cure of any kind. She has her good and bad days, but seems to be handling things okay.
As far as I go, I am still job hunting. I rarely find any jobs to apply for, but I keep searching. I know sometime soon, something will work out for me. On a happy note, however, I have lost about 42 pounds since the last week of February, so I'm feeling better physically than I have in many years. I've still got a lot of work to do on the weight loss, but I'm pretty proud of what I've accomplished so far.
My mom is still doing well after her stroke and series of seizures. She has seen the neurologist twice since late-February when all of that happened. They said she is doing great, and actually cleared her to drive again (initially we were told at least a year for that). She went to see her oncologist last week and they indicated that her latest blood work showed that the cancer marker has begun rising again, so she is beginning chemo again in two weeks. She'll do that for about two months and then there is a possibility that they will implant radioactive seeds into the cancerous area to try to eradicate it. All of that sounds much better than another major surgery. She seems to be doing fine with this news. That may be because she is leaving tomorrow for a resort in the Dominican Republic for five days with my dad. Party at my place - who hoo!!
My grandmother is currently receiving chemo for her pancreatic cancer, but her oncologist has warned how deadly the disease is and that this is basically just a treatment to see if she can maintain her current health, not a cure of any kind. She has her good and bad days, but seems to be handling things okay.
As far as I go, I am still job hunting. I rarely find any jobs to apply for, but I keep searching. I know sometime soon, something will work out for me. On a happy note, however, I have lost about 42 pounds since the last week of February, so I'm feeling better physically than I have in many years. I've still got a lot of work to do on the weight loss, but I'm pretty proud of what I've accomplished so far.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
A long overdue update
Hello blog readers. It has been a long time. I've missed you! Just a few updates here.
My mom's health took a turn for the worse in February. I drove to Dallas in mid-February for a nice week-long getaway from everything and to catch up with all of my friends. I got to Dallas on Friday morning and on Friday evening, I received a call from my dad, telling me that my mom had possibly had a stroke and was in the emergency room. While my first instinct was to immediately turn around and go home, both my dad and mom thought it best that I stay in Dallas. I ended up cutting my trip by three days, but did stay for a few days after it seemed that things had stabilized with my mom's condition.
She was at her sister's house when she had the stroke and luckily, my aunt is a long-time RN, so she was able to care for her immediately. They had the emergency squad come and pick her up and take her to the local hospital (this all happened about two hours away from where we live). After she was stabilized at the local hospital, the decision was made to CareFlight her to her regular hospital, Ohio State University Medical Center in Columbus, since she regularly goes there for her cancer treatments.
She was admitted at OSU very late Friday night. She ended up staying at OSU through the following Wednesday, when she was finally released after numerous tests and procedures. During all of this, she suffered from seizures, likely caused by the trauma to the brain by the stroke. They also diagnosed her as a diabetic during this stay at the hospital and determined that her cholesterol levels were astronomical (side note - I'm convinced that the diabetes and the cholesterol were directly influenced by her chemotherapy treatments).
By the time I got home, she was at home, doing good, albeit with a ton of new pills to take each day and a large number of new doctors.
She's now doing very well, eating much better, exercising daily and effectively controlling her blood sugar. She's seen the neurologist since that time and they've been slowly lowering her anti-seizure medication and that has also been working out well.
As far as her cancer goes, she saw her oncologist last week and he wants to hold off on resuming treatments for a while, while her body adjusts to all of these new medicines, if everything looks okay on the CT scan she is having this morning. She goes back to the oncologist next Monday to get the results from the scan and if things look stable, it'll likely be about two months before she gets back into the chemotherapy.
At her last oncologist appointment before all of this happened, they did mention that the spot on her liver was shrinking and that they were thinking they'd do four more chemo treatments and then, rather than a full-blown surgery, they would do a radio wave ablation, with is an out-patient procedure where they basically burn the damaged area of the liver away with a small instrument.
My grandmother's news has not been great either. In January, she met with my mom's oncologist and it was determined that her cancer has indeed returned, and there are no surgeries they can do to remove it. She goes back for another CT scan in early April and at that point, they will determine next steps. She may end up doing chemotherapy, but the doctor wants to be sure to not ruin her quality of life, so he needs to find a balance.
Also, I am still jobless, but that may be a blessing with all of the things going on with my mom. Due to her seizures, she is unable to drive for at least a year, so I have in essence become a taxi service, but I don't mind.
That is all for now - I will update when I know more.
- C
My mom's health took a turn for the worse in February. I drove to Dallas in mid-February for a nice week-long getaway from everything and to catch up with all of my friends. I got to Dallas on Friday morning and on Friday evening, I received a call from my dad, telling me that my mom had possibly had a stroke and was in the emergency room. While my first instinct was to immediately turn around and go home, both my dad and mom thought it best that I stay in Dallas. I ended up cutting my trip by three days, but did stay for a few days after it seemed that things had stabilized with my mom's condition.
She was at her sister's house when she had the stroke and luckily, my aunt is a long-time RN, so she was able to care for her immediately. They had the emergency squad come and pick her up and take her to the local hospital (this all happened about two hours away from where we live). After she was stabilized at the local hospital, the decision was made to CareFlight her to her regular hospital, Ohio State University Medical Center in Columbus, since she regularly goes there for her cancer treatments.
She was admitted at OSU very late Friday night. She ended up staying at OSU through the following Wednesday, when she was finally released after numerous tests and procedures. During all of this, she suffered from seizures, likely caused by the trauma to the brain by the stroke. They also diagnosed her as a diabetic during this stay at the hospital and determined that her cholesterol levels were astronomical (side note - I'm convinced that the diabetes and the cholesterol were directly influenced by her chemotherapy treatments).
By the time I got home, she was at home, doing good, albeit with a ton of new pills to take each day and a large number of new doctors.
She's now doing very well, eating much better, exercising daily and effectively controlling her blood sugar. She's seen the neurologist since that time and they've been slowly lowering her anti-seizure medication and that has also been working out well.
As far as her cancer goes, she saw her oncologist last week and he wants to hold off on resuming treatments for a while, while her body adjusts to all of these new medicines, if everything looks okay on the CT scan she is having this morning. She goes back to the oncologist next Monday to get the results from the scan and if things look stable, it'll likely be about two months before she gets back into the chemotherapy.
At her last oncologist appointment before all of this happened, they did mention that the spot on her liver was shrinking and that they were thinking they'd do four more chemo treatments and then, rather than a full-blown surgery, they would do a radio wave ablation, with is an out-patient procedure where they basically burn the damaged area of the liver away with a small instrument.
My grandmother's news has not been great either. In January, she met with my mom's oncologist and it was determined that her cancer has indeed returned, and there are no surgeries they can do to remove it. She goes back for another CT scan in early April and at that point, they will determine next steps. She may end up doing chemotherapy, but the doctor wants to be sure to not ruin her quality of life, so he needs to find a balance.
Also, I am still jobless, but that may be a blessing with all of the things going on with my mom. Due to her seizures, she is unable to drive for at least a year, so I have in essence become a taxi service, but I don't mind.
That is all for now - I will update when I know more.
- C
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
New Year’s Eve – a 2008 retrospective and a look ahead to 2009
As 2008 comes to a close, what better time is there to look back on the past 12 months and look ahead to the next 12?
2008
For me, personally, 2008 was a year of extreme highs and lows. The year started out with a continuing job hunt, but my family was healthy, and together, so it wasn’t all bad.
In February, not too deep into the new year, I finally found a job – one that I thought could be that perfect job everybody is looking for, usually through their whole life. I began my position as director of communications for a non-profit that protects the rights of hunters. As days turned into weeks and weeks turned into months, I realized that this was not the perfect position I’d dreamed it to be. In fact, I realized I was in the completely wrong position. Don’t get me wrong – I actually loved the things that I was doing, but the message I was putting out wasn’t one I believed in. After some days of sending out press releases and taking calls from media and the public, I would drive home with a sick feeling inside because I just didn’t agree with what I was doing. At that point, I realized what I had to do. I could not be the mouthpiece for an organization I wasn’t behind. I left that job at the end of May.
While leaving a job like I did may seem like one of the downs, I can say that it also provided at least a couple of the ups. I met a great group of people that I continue to consider friends and learned a lot about how non-profits work.
After leaving this position, I scheduled a trip back to Dallas in June to recharge and reconnect with my good friends. I came home refreshed and ready to get on that job search horse once again. I had a few interviews here and there, but nothing that seemed to fit. I figured it was just a matter of time before I found something that worked for both me and the company that was looking to fill a position.
Then, in July, came another disappointment. My mother had been cancer-free for nearly a year after having gone through surgery and a long cycle of chemotherapy. She had been going in for scans and check ups every three months after that to make sure the cancer had not come back. After her July scan, she was told that everything looked good. The next morning, however, she received a call from the doctor stating that something came back strange in the blood work and they needed to do more tests. She did another scan and the found that the cancer had returned. She has been doing chemotherapy since that time and will be having another surgery sometime in the early part of the new year.
It was somewhat of a blessing that I was off work during this, as it is hard for her to do the things she would normally do because of the effects of the chemo.
In October, after several more interviews at various places, it seemed that I had found the position that I had been looking for. I interviewed for a public relations writer position with a software company and was called back for a second interview. Everything about the job sounded great and I thought it was going to be a perfect fit for both myself and the company. At the second interview I was told by the hiring manager that at that point she had planned to offer me the job, however, she received a resume just the night before my second interview from a woman with 20 years experience of writing for the software industry and she felt like she had to at least interview that person. It ended up that the experience won out and I did not get the position. I have stayed in contact with that hiring manager and she continues to help me using her network of public relations professionals in the Columbus area.
One other disappointing development for 2008 is the return of my grandmother’s cancer. She too had been deemed cancer-free, only to see the return of her pancreatic cancer in early December of this year. She is likely to begin chemotherapy again soon, depending on some forthcoming test results. As bad as this seems, I still often think of how blessed I am. I am the only 32-year-old person I know that still has all four of his grandparents still living, and living unassisted at that.
2008 was also a year of reconnections for me. Thanks to Facebook, I’ve managed to get back in touch with so many people that I thought I’d never hear from again. It is so nice to get caught up with so many people that I’d lost track of over the years.
So, as 2008 ends, I remain unemployed. If I had known the worst economy in my lifetime was about to begin, would I have changed my decision to leave the position with the non-profit? It’s hard to say. Part of me says yes – I would have wanted to keep that stability, but part of me knows that I’m just not the kind of person that can stay someplace when it doesn’t fit with my beliefs.
Yes, 2008 had its share of ups and downs, and a lot of people might say mostly downs, but I try to see the positive side of all that has happened. I’d be lying if I didn’t say that sometimes, in weaker moments, I questioned the existence of God, or wondered why He was doing this to my family. Each time, however, I end up coming back to Him and praying to Him.
2009
As I enter 2009, it is indeed a year of uncertainty. With economic times as bad as they are, one must wonder how this job search is going to move forward. It is important to me that I once again become part of society and I will find a place where I can not only support myself, but also in some way help others.
The health of my family is in question. Surgery and chemotherapy are givens, but even with that, results are unclear. I do know that my family and I will make the best of whatever hand we are dealt.
With that, I ask each of you to love those in your life, and don’t take anything for granted. I wish you all nothing but the best for 2009.
2008
For me, personally, 2008 was a year of extreme highs and lows. The year started out with a continuing job hunt, but my family was healthy, and together, so it wasn’t all bad.
In February, not too deep into the new year, I finally found a job – one that I thought could be that perfect job everybody is looking for, usually through their whole life. I began my position as director of communications for a non-profit that protects the rights of hunters. As days turned into weeks and weeks turned into months, I realized that this was not the perfect position I’d dreamed it to be. In fact, I realized I was in the completely wrong position. Don’t get me wrong – I actually loved the things that I was doing, but the message I was putting out wasn’t one I believed in. After some days of sending out press releases and taking calls from media and the public, I would drive home with a sick feeling inside because I just didn’t agree with what I was doing. At that point, I realized what I had to do. I could not be the mouthpiece for an organization I wasn’t behind. I left that job at the end of May.
While leaving a job like I did may seem like one of the downs, I can say that it also provided at least a couple of the ups. I met a great group of people that I continue to consider friends and learned a lot about how non-profits work.
After leaving this position, I scheduled a trip back to Dallas in June to recharge and reconnect with my good friends. I came home refreshed and ready to get on that job search horse once again. I had a few interviews here and there, but nothing that seemed to fit. I figured it was just a matter of time before I found something that worked for both me and the company that was looking to fill a position.
Then, in July, came another disappointment. My mother had been cancer-free for nearly a year after having gone through surgery and a long cycle of chemotherapy. She had been going in for scans and check ups every three months after that to make sure the cancer had not come back. After her July scan, she was told that everything looked good. The next morning, however, she received a call from the doctor stating that something came back strange in the blood work and they needed to do more tests. She did another scan and the found that the cancer had returned. She has been doing chemotherapy since that time and will be having another surgery sometime in the early part of the new year.
It was somewhat of a blessing that I was off work during this, as it is hard for her to do the things she would normally do because of the effects of the chemo.
In October, after several more interviews at various places, it seemed that I had found the position that I had been looking for. I interviewed for a public relations writer position with a software company and was called back for a second interview. Everything about the job sounded great and I thought it was going to be a perfect fit for both myself and the company. At the second interview I was told by the hiring manager that at that point she had planned to offer me the job, however, she received a resume just the night before my second interview from a woman with 20 years experience of writing for the software industry and she felt like she had to at least interview that person. It ended up that the experience won out and I did not get the position. I have stayed in contact with that hiring manager and she continues to help me using her network of public relations professionals in the Columbus area.
One other disappointing development for 2008 is the return of my grandmother’s cancer. She too had been deemed cancer-free, only to see the return of her pancreatic cancer in early December of this year. She is likely to begin chemotherapy again soon, depending on some forthcoming test results. As bad as this seems, I still often think of how blessed I am. I am the only 32-year-old person I know that still has all four of his grandparents still living, and living unassisted at that.
2008 was also a year of reconnections for me. Thanks to Facebook, I’ve managed to get back in touch with so many people that I thought I’d never hear from again. It is so nice to get caught up with so many people that I’d lost track of over the years.
So, as 2008 ends, I remain unemployed. If I had known the worst economy in my lifetime was about to begin, would I have changed my decision to leave the position with the non-profit? It’s hard to say. Part of me says yes – I would have wanted to keep that stability, but part of me knows that I’m just not the kind of person that can stay someplace when it doesn’t fit with my beliefs.
Yes, 2008 had its share of ups and downs, and a lot of people might say mostly downs, but I try to see the positive side of all that has happened. I’d be lying if I didn’t say that sometimes, in weaker moments, I questioned the existence of God, or wondered why He was doing this to my family. Each time, however, I end up coming back to Him and praying to Him.
2009
As I enter 2009, it is indeed a year of uncertainty. With economic times as bad as they are, one must wonder how this job search is going to move forward. It is important to me that I once again become part of society and I will find a place where I can not only support myself, but also in some way help others.
The health of my family is in question. Surgery and chemotherapy are givens, but even with that, results are unclear. I do know that my family and I will make the best of whatever hand we are dealt.
With that, I ask each of you to love those in your life, and don’t take anything for granted. I wish you all nothing but the best for 2009.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
End of the Year Update
Hello all. I hope this update finds you all doing well and finished with your Christmas shopping so you have some time to enjoy the season!
Sorry for the lack of updates - I know it seems like I start each of my blog postings with that apology. Hopefully I'll do better updating throughout 2009.
My mom is still going through her chemo treatments. We're hoping that she'll be done with those before too long. I'll update again once we know more.
My job search is not going too well. It is not a great time to be job hunting when the world economy is in the toilet. I'm trying to keep my chin up however. Hopefully the first of the year will bring more opportunities.
I wish you all the very best holiday season and a most prosperous new year. Hope to hear from you all soon!
- C
Sorry for the lack of updates - I know it seems like I start each of my blog postings with that apology. Hopefully I'll do better updating throughout 2009.
My mom is still going through her chemo treatments. We're hoping that she'll be done with those before too long. I'll update again once we know more.
My job search is not going too well. It is not a great time to be job hunting when the world economy is in the toilet. I'm trying to keep my chin up however. Hopefully the first of the year will bring more opportunities.
I wish you all the very best holiday season and a most prosperous new year. Hope to hear from you all soon!
- C
Friday, October 24, 2008
Quick Update
Just a quick update on things. Mom went to see her oncologist and the tumor in her liver didn't shrink any with the first three chemo treatments. She's going to go through three more and then they will look at things again to see what's going on. She's still looking at a surgery in the not-to-distant future, but the timing on that will be determined after the chemo cycle.
On the job front, it was a case of so close, yet so far away. I ended up going in for my second interview for the PR writer position I spoke of in my last blog post. The hiring manager was very candid with me and said that she had received a resume just a day earlier from a lady with 10-years writing experience, with 6 of those years being in software. She said that I was her choice at the moment, but she still had to interview this woman. Well, long story short, the woman got the job because of the experience factor. So, the hunt continues.
That's it for now.
- C
On the job front, it was a case of so close, yet so far away. I ended up going in for my second interview for the PR writer position I spoke of in my last blog post. The hiring manager was very candid with me and said that she had received a resume just a day earlier from a lady with 10-years writing experience, with 6 of those years being in software. She said that I was her choice at the moment, but she still had to interview this woman. Well, long story short, the woman got the job because of the experience factor. So, the hunt continues.
That's it for now.
- C
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Update
Hello all. Just a quick update. Mom is hanging in there. She's finishing up her third of four chemo treatments. After the last one, she'll have to schedule the surgery to remove part of her liver. She's not looking forward to it, but she's a trooper.
As far as the job hunt goes, I interviewed with a publicly-traded software company last week for its open PR Writer position. I felt like the interview went well and I got a call today to schedule a follow-up interview next Wednesday, so that seems like a good sign. I'll keep you all posted!
- C
As far as the job hunt goes, I interviewed with a publicly-traded software company last week for its open PR Writer position. I felt like the interview went well and I got a call today to schedule a follow-up interview next Wednesday, so that seems like a good sign. I'll keep you all posted!
- C
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
Another update
Just a quick update on my mom's condition. She started her second chemo treatment today. She will be at the halfway mark of her chemo after this one is done. Then, on to the surgery, which we will get more information on in the weeks to come. So far with these treatments she hasn't been too sick, just exhausted. I'll post more when I have it. Thanks for caring!
- C
- C
Thursday, August 07, 2008
Life update
Greetings blog readers! Just a quick update, since it has been so long. I'm still on the job hunt - sent out several more resumes just this week.
More importantly, things are not going great with my mother's health. She found out about a month ago that her cancer has returned. She starts chemotherapy again this coming Monday, so we're hoping she gets through that without too many problems. After two months of those treatments, they are planning to do another surgery to remove the cancerous part of the liver. We're hoping that this will take care of the cancer and she can go back to living her life.
That's about it from here, sorry for the lack of updates!
- C
More importantly, things are not going great with my mother's health. She found out about a month ago that her cancer has returned. She starts chemotherapy again this coming Monday, so we're hoping she gets through that without too many problems. After two months of those treatments, they are planning to do another surgery to remove the cancerous part of the liver. We're hoping that this will take care of the cancer and she can go back to living her life.
That's about it from here, sorry for the lack of updates!
- C
Sunday, June 01, 2008
So, here it is ...
Some of you already know this, but I ended up leaving my position as director of communications a couple of weeks ago. I am once again on the job hunt.
After about three months at the organization, I came to the conclusion that the message and goals of the group did not fit with my beliefs and I could not in good faith continue to be the mouthpiece for something I was against.
I have a couple of irons in the fire regarding work already. I just wanted everyone to know what was going on with me. Thanks, as always, for your continued support.
- Cory
After about three months at the organization, I came to the conclusion that the message and goals of the group did not fit with my beliefs and I could not in good faith continue to be the mouthpiece for something I was against.
I have a couple of irons in the fire regarding work already. I just wanted everyone to know what was going on with me. Thanks, as always, for your continued support.
- Cory
Saturday, March 29, 2008
The new job
Well, I thought it was about time for me to do a post on my new job. I've been there about a month now and things are going great. I actually feel like I'm doing what I went to school for now. My official title is director of communications. I have my own office, a laptop, cell phone, corporate card, etc. I have an assistant director, an intern and I'm hiring a second intern.
As far as what I do, it is somewhat of a small organization (22 people I think) and you end up wearing many hats, but my main duties are all relevant to public relations and communications, which is awesome. I write a lot, which is a big change from the previous job. We have two monthly newsletters, a small weekly e-newsletter and about eight quarterly specialized e-newsletters that we produce. I've been working on a powerpoint presentation I'm doing for our board meeting in a couple of weeks. I've fielded several media calls and have been working with several outdoor writers associations in relation to their annual conferences.
There is going to be significant travel involved in the position, and I'm very happy about that. I figure I'm single and don't have any kids, so what better time than now to see the country. So far I'm scheduled to visit Tennessee twice, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Pennsylvania this spring and summer. In fact, I go to Nashville for our board meeting a week from Tuesday. I then fly back on Wednesday afternoon and turn around and drive 2 1/2 hours to northern Ohio on Thursday for a four-day convention up there.
It is so nice to feel like part of the world again. I really enjoy the people I work with so far and I think I found a really good place to work - finally!! Thanks to all of you for your continued well-wishes as I went through the trials of trying to find a position.
As far as what I do, it is somewhat of a small organization (22 people I think) and you end up wearing many hats, but my main duties are all relevant to public relations and communications, which is awesome. I write a lot, which is a big change from the previous job. We have two monthly newsletters, a small weekly e-newsletter and about eight quarterly specialized e-newsletters that we produce. I've been working on a powerpoint presentation I'm doing for our board meeting in a couple of weeks. I've fielded several media calls and have been working with several outdoor writers associations in relation to their annual conferences.
There is going to be significant travel involved in the position, and I'm very happy about that. I figure I'm single and don't have any kids, so what better time than now to see the country. So far I'm scheduled to visit Tennessee twice, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Pennsylvania this spring and summer. In fact, I go to Nashville for our board meeting a week from Tuesday. I then fly back on Wednesday afternoon and turn around and drive 2 1/2 hours to northern Ohio on Thursday for a four-day convention up there.
It is so nice to feel like part of the world again. I really enjoy the people I work with so far and I think I found a really good place to work - finally!! Thanks to all of you for your continued well-wishes as I went through the trials of trying to find a position.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Work so far
So far, so good on the job front. I've been really busy already in my two days there. I can tell this is going to be a pretty hectic job, but I'm enjoying it so far. I'm going to a four-day conference in northern Ohio in the middle of April and I'll likely be going to North Dakota for a couple of days for a conference in late July. So far I really like the people. Everybody seems to work hard, but they still manage to laugh and have fun. This job is a lot less structured than my previous job, so it is a bit of an adjustment. I'm going to have to be spot on in my time management and multi-tasking. I managed to move some stuff around in my office and make it more "mine" today, so that's kind of nice. Just wanted to update everybody on the progress so far.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
The rollercoaster continues - I've accepted a job offer!
I accepted a job offer this morning and start my new position on Tuesday. I'm the new Director of Communications for a non-profit that protects the rights of outdoorsmen.. This job is infinitely better than the one that didn't work out a few weeks ago.
I just wanted to let everybody know and thank you all for your support and well wishes during this trying job hunt. I guess things do work out for a reason.
I just wanted to let everybody know and thank you all for your support and well wishes during this trying job hunt. I guess things do work out for a reason.
Friday, February 01, 2008
Life is a rollercoaster
Well, I wrote the blog last night saying I was going to accept a job offer this morning. I called and spoke to the owner and told her I was going to accept when she started with "I don't want to sound like I'm reneging, but" and I figured out immediately that I wasn't going to be working there. She said that she'd been thinking more about it and she didn't feel like she was able to offer the type of position or pay that I would need and she thought I'd be bored with the job because I'm overqualified. So, basically, she snatched the job out from under me. She did say that a couple of her clients are looking for people right now and she was going to pass my resume on to them because they would be able to offer a higher level job with higher pay. I sure hope having her pass it on works out because I really need a stinkin' job!!! I must say I'm kind of in shock right now - I've never just had the rug pulled out from under me like that before.
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