Thank you to all of you who have read these Posts and to those who have left a comment. As stated at the beginning of Keri's Story, it was her wish to one day put her journey into words in hope to help those that shared the same questions and worries as she did. She loved helping others. That's what made her such a great Kindergarten teacher, and it was my wish to make her wish come true. Through the help of this great community and MyBreastCancerNetwork.com, family, and friends we have been able to give you the greatest gift of all, the Story of Keri.
I love you Babe, Love Doug.
Subject: Keri Update
Sent: Sunday, November 5, 2006 8:36 AM
This is just a short update on Keri. She had a fairly peaceful night last night. The Hospice nurse did not need to be called. Her breathing is about every 20 seconds, but she is still alert and even managed to eat a little bit of pizza last night. She can not sit up for more than a couple of minutes with out getting dizzy and getting a very bad pain in her head and neck on the right hand side.
Doug and Den left a little while ago to go to base. There is always someone in with her now, I will try and keep you posted, it is very sad here.
Love,
Elaine
See Keri's Story: Episode 20 (November 14, 2006)
Subject: Keri
Sent: Tuesday, November 14, 2006 7:29 PM
Sarah,
Thank you so much for writing me and keeping my family in your prayers. Keri is not doing well at all. I don't know how much you know, but on Halloween they found out that the cancer had spread to her spine, skull, and lungs. The doctor told Doug that day that she had about 2 weeks to live. The cancer is still spreading and they're almost certain that it has also reached her brain.
She is at home and being cared for by hospice. Keri's parents and my mom are there with them. Her brother and sister and my dad were able to stay for about 1 1/2 weeks before they had to return to school and work.
Since Halloween she has had her ups and downs. These past couple of days have been especially rough though. She is having extreme difficulty swallowing and is now on a diet of baby food; she chokes on even the smallest bites of anything solid. She is also becoming more confused.
Doug is being very strong for her right now, but is exhausted. He hasn't gotten much sleep because he listens for her breathing all night long and helps with her pain medication throughout the night.
