On Friday, January 20, John passed away peacefully surrounded by Karen and family. John survived 47 months after being diagnosed with multiple lesions of glioblastoma multiforme. He ran his cancer marathon with grace, courage, and an indomitable spirit that strengthened all who had the honor of knowing him. His extended family holds him in their hearts as one of their greatest teachers, proving that life is fragile and precious, and that love conquers all.
Shine on, John! Check out all the trails where you now journey so that when our paths once again cross, you can show us all the purest streams and mountain vistas.
Great run, John! We love you and carry your Olympic torch in our hearts.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Monday, January 16, 2012
John is peaceful and still hanging on. He is surrounded by many people who love him, is visited by many others. We are taking as good of care of him as is humanly possible. Laurie, Martha, Greg, Mary Anne, Paul, Lisa and I, Justin and Ashley, Sue, Kenny and Connie are also supporting Karen in the most difficult time of her life. The nursing staff at Stormont-Vail have been wonderful in the grace and compassion they extended to his family as well as to John. We are blessed to have them care for him. Especially Nicole & Piper who have taken the time to look after our needs as well as John's. They explain what and why they are doing something, ask for any special needs he might need . They are quick to reconginze and respond to every member of the family, even before we know what we need, as we learn to let John move on. Each of them have a story about a loved one who was at one point in need of the same tender care. Those story help explain why they do this kind of nursing. We are blessed to have people dedicated to the compasion & grace at end of life of someone else, it takes a special calling. Hug someone today and let them know how much they mean to you. We will hug John and let him know how much he means to so many.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
It is with a very heavy heart that I write this blog post today.
John is in ICU at the hospital right now. He is on a trachea attached to a ventilator, and has been for 27 days. It is so sad for us to see him. On Friday, the machines will come off for good and John will find peace.
On December 12, 2011, John had hernia surgery. The drug he was taking as part of a clinical trial from Duke, Avastin, had taken it's toll on John. This drug is very hard on your upper GI, and as a result, a hernia surfaced. The surgery went well, but John aspirated in the hospital the following Thursday morning. He was taken to ICU and has been there ever since. He has fought every infection one can contract in this setting. Since his body was so compromised by the cancer treatment, there is nothing left to do.
Both John and Karen have fought this battle head on together. As I sit by helplessly and watch, I see it as a testament to marriage, in sickness and in health till death due us part. I am honored to be part of this family.
John is in ICU at the hospital right now. He is on a trachea attached to a ventilator, and has been for 27 days. It is so sad for us to see him. On Friday, the machines will come off for good and John will find peace.
On December 12, 2011, John had hernia surgery. The drug he was taking as part of a clinical trial from Duke, Avastin, had taken it's toll on John. This drug is very hard on your upper GI, and as a result, a hernia surfaced. The surgery went well, but John aspirated in the hospital the following Thursday morning. He was taken to ICU and has been there ever since. He has fought every infection one can contract in this setting. Since his body was so compromised by the cancer treatment, there is nothing left to do.
Both John and Karen have fought this battle head on together. As I sit by helplessly and watch, I see it as a testament to marriage, in sickness and in health till death due us part. I am honored to be part of this family.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
T-shirts!!!
Hi guys,
Here is a link to get your very own John's Trophy Run t-shirt! It is a keeper and you too can be part of the team!
http://www.cafepress.com/JohnsTrophyRun
We can even send a copy of the team picture on race day!
Love, Martha
Here is a link to get your very own John's Trophy Run t-shirt! It is a keeper and you too can be part of the team!
http://www.cafepress.com/JohnsTrophyRun
We can even send a copy of the team picture on race day!
Love, Martha
Monday, April 18, 2011
John's Second Wind
Dear followers of John's Trophy Run,
This past week, John has been to see Dr. Vredenburgh at the Tisch Brain Tumor Center. In February, right after Greg's post, John had a series of seizures. The first one was the big one but he had many smaller ones that ended with him spending several days in the hospital. Dr.V said it sent up some red flags, and that resulted in a visit to Duke.
Greg and I have been in Chapel Hill since February. Greg is teaching at the charter school again. This provides us with an opportunity to share wonderful times with Nathan, Danielle, and grandson Noah.
Long story short, we were also here to help John and Karen get around Durham, give them an place to stay, and provide an opportunity for them to visit with the whole NC family. I am so thankful to be able to help in this way.
Danielle, our daughter-in-law, is organizing another go at the Angels Among Us 5K on April 30th in Durham. This will support the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke. She has been training like crazy and even talked me into running! We have "John's Team" with her parents, Nita and Larry Glickman, Nathan, Laura, Greg and I think her brother,Seth and fiance, Ellen Walker. For everyone except Greg,Laura and me, this is the second time they have been members of "John's Team". Would you consider donating to this cause that has helped John so much? Here is a link to the website. You can donate online, and every little bit helps.
We will try to keep the blog going to keep you updated on John's progress. Please keep Karen in your thoughts and prayers too, as being his care giver is a very hard job. Any cards or emails are most appreciated, too. John and Karen's new address is 3435 SW Urish Road, Topeka, KS. 66614.
Our family thanks you for your love and support of this next part of the run!! We are hoping that John's second wind kicks in very quickly.
love, Martha
This past week, John has been to see Dr. Vredenburgh at the Tisch Brain Tumor Center. In February, right after Greg's post, John had a series of seizures. The first one was the big one but he had many smaller ones that ended with him spending several days in the hospital. Dr.V said it sent up some red flags, and that resulted in a visit to Duke.
Greg and I have been in Chapel Hill since February. Greg is teaching at the charter school again. This provides us with an opportunity to share wonderful times with Nathan, Danielle, and grandson Noah.
Long story short, we were also here to help John and Karen get around Durham, give them an place to stay, and provide an opportunity for them to visit with the whole NC family. I am so thankful to be able to help in this way.
 |
| Nathan and Great Uncle John cheer as Noah catches the ball! Danielle captures the moment. |
John had a MRI and PET scan at the Duke facilities and a follow-up appointment with Dr. Vredenburgh. The tests results showed a small tumor, about the size of the end of a pencil eraser, had started to grow. John has not had any treatment for the cancer in about 15 months. Needless to say, we were very disappointed with the test results. Dr. V. was positive and thought we could be successful in stopping the growth with chemo and avastin. Today he will begin a daily dose of Temador, the chemo drug, and tomorrow will have a 1/2 dose of avastin, the experimental drug, Dr. V. is using in his brain cancer study. If John tolerates the avastin for two rounds, they will bump it up next month. These two drugs were successful in John getting an "in remission" diagnosis the last time. You can bet, his family is hoping and praying for the same results this time as well.
 |
| The original John's Team in 2008! Thanks so much to all of you! |
We will try to keep the blog going to keep you updated on John's progress. Please keep Karen in your thoughts and prayers too, as being his care giver is a very hard job. Any cards or emails are most appreciated, too. John and Karen's new address is 3435 SW Urish Road, Topeka, KS. 66614.
Our family thanks you for your love and support of this next part of the run!! We are hoping that John's second wind kicks in very quickly.
love, Martha
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
We Celebrate Victory This Day!
Hi all,
This is Greg, John's brother-in-law.
I've been reflecting upon all that has happened in the last three years since I started this blog about John's life and the rest of our lives, too. So, I decided that it is time to resurrect it. This blog is, after all, a celebration of life, and there is much to celebrate today!
Yes, John is stilling running; He has crossed countless finish lines, some barely standing and some triumphantly. The longer the time on the stopwatch, however, the larger his and our trophy rises into the sky. Stage 4 multiple Glioblastoma multiforme is a formidable foe, but it didn't stop John in the middle of his trophy run.
John's Trophy Run has been an incredible journey of perseverance, courage, faith, and a considerable scientific miracle. After three years, he is finished with his experimental treatment and is in complete remission.... That's Cancer Free, sport fans! How about that runner!
John has weathered the ultimate storm, but he carries on with the same integrity and character as always. He is full of life: always touching, sensing, tasting, feeling, and experiencing life to its fullest. He is endlessly curious, always wanting to learn something new and share his phenomenal knowledge and awareness with anyone who wants to listen. He has always carried a plethora of obscure sports, historical, musical, and trivial facts, and that has not changed a bit!
Cancer does change some things, however. Let's look how John met his ultimate challenge!
1) He now is a grandfather of a beautiful baby boy. Ashley and Dan are very proud to share their joy with John. That nasty cancer almost didn't let him get to see little Roland, but now John grins from ear to ear when he talks about holding him in his arms.
2) John saw his nephew Michael marry the love of his life, Gracie, and he was in the groove dancing all night while his entire family tried to keep up with him!
3) John hiked the Yellowstone Valley and the Grand Tetons with his family near. He saw the Grizzly and looked him straight in the eye! I'll never forget the whole family gazing through the spotting scope as the National Geographic scene unfolded before our eyes!
4) John also has reserved seats on Southwest Airlines from MCI to RDU, and his faithful partner, friend, love, and wife Karen joined him in those "Group A" seats many, many times during their journeys to visit some of the most amazing doctors on Earth. John....? He was just proud to introduce his new friend Dr. V. to his brother and sisters at the Tisch Brain Tumor Center on the campus of Duke University.
5) The experimental drug Avastin took its toll on John's cancer, but it affected John's healthy colon, too. He struggled through a very painful perforated appendix one year ago. When he recovered, we all feared that the Avastin was the cause of thinning of the intestinal wall. The drug that saved him was now killing him, so he had to say good bye to the very experimental monoclonal antibody that gave him a second chance at life.
We worried that the cancer would return, but it didn't. We now know that most cancers return in the early months after the treatment has ended, and John is still cancer free, one full year after his cancer regimen!
6) Before, throughout, and after John's ordeal, he continues to care deeply for those around him. He still volunteers at his church and visits his children, grandchild, brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces, and all the "out-laws" whenever he can.
I could go on and on. But two of the things that John has reinforced in all of us in the last three years is to "never give up no matter what", and to "grab onto life while you have it" with all the strength, knowledge, faith, and gratitude that you can muster. He has reminded all of us poignantly that living is the greatest gift of all, and that one cannot give it up without a considerable fight. He has been a true hero of a human being for all of us to emulate.
May we all grow old with you, brother John! There is still much ground to cover!
We celebrate victory together this day!
Take some time to go back to the beginning and reread this incredible story. You will be sad at times, but you'll also be amazed, joyful, and deeply touched by the story of a remarkable family. I guarantee it!
Consider joining John's Team for their third Tisch Center Angels Among Us 5K on April 30, in Durham, North Carolina! I'll be there, and I'll be running!
This is Greg, John's brother-in-law.
I've been reflecting upon all that has happened in the last three years since I started this blog about John's life and the rest of our lives, too. So, I decided that it is time to resurrect it. This blog is, after all, a celebration of life, and there is much to celebrate today!
Yes, John is stilling running; He has crossed countless finish lines, some barely standing and some triumphantly. The longer the time on the stopwatch, however, the larger his and our trophy rises into the sky. Stage 4 multiple Glioblastoma multiforme is a formidable foe, but it didn't stop John in the middle of his trophy run.
John's Trophy Run has been an incredible journey of perseverance, courage, faith, and a considerable scientific miracle. After three years, he is finished with his experimental treatment and is in complete remission.... That's Cancer Free, sport fans! How about that runner!
John has weathered the ultimate storm, but he carries on with the same integrity and character as always. He is full of life: always touching, sensing, tasting, feeling, and experiencing life to its fullest. He is endlessly curious, always wanting to learn something new and share his phenomenal knowledge and awareness with anyone who wants to listen. He has always carried a plethora of obscure sports, historical, musical, and trivial facts, and that has not changed a bit!
Cancer does change some things, however. Let's look how John met his ultimate challenge!
1) He now is a grandfather of a beautiful baby boy. Ashley and Dan are very proud to share their joy with John. That nasty cancer almost didn't let him get to see little Roland, but now John grins from ear to ear when he talks about holding him in his arms.
2) John saw his nephew Michael marry the love of his life, Gracie, and he was in the groove dancing all night while his entire family tried to keep up with him!
3) John hiked the Yellowstone Valley and the Grand Tetons with his family near. He saw the Grizzly and looked him straight in the eye! I'll never forget the whole family gazing through the spotting scope as the National Geographic scene unfolded before our eyes!
4) John also has reserved seats on Southwest Airlines from MCI to RDU, and his faithful partner, friend, love, and wife Karen joined him in those "Group A" seats many, many times during their journeys to visit some of the most amazing doctors on Earth. John....? He was just proud to introduce his new friend Dr. V. to his brother and sisters at the Tisch Brain Tumor Center on the campus of Duke University.
5) The experimental drug Avastin took its toll on John's cancer, but it affected John's healthy colon, too. He struggled through a very painful perforated appendix one year ago. When he recovered, we all feared that the Avastin was the cause of thinning of the intestinal wall. The drug that saved him was now killing him, so he had to say good bye to the very experimental monoclonal antibody that gave him a second chance at life.
We worried that the cancer would return, but it didn't. We now know that most cancers return in the early months after the treatment has ended, and John is still cancer free, one full year after his cancer regimen!
6) Before, throughout, and after John's ordeal, he continues to care deeply for those around him. He still volunteers at his church and visits his children, grandchild, brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces, and all the "out-laws" whenever he can.
I could go on and on. But two of the things that John has reinforced in all of us in the last three years is to "never give up no matter what", and to "grab onto life while you have it" with all the strength, knowledge, faith, and gratitude that you can muster. He has reminded all of us poignantly that living is the greatest gift of all, and that one cannot give it up without a considerable fight. He has been a true hero of a human being for all of us to emulate.
May we all grow old with you, brother John! There is still much ground to cover!
We celebrate victory together this day!
Take some time to go back to the beginning and reread this incredible story. You will be sad at times, but you'll also be amazed, joyful, and deeply touched by the story of a remarkable family. I guarantee it!
Consider joining John's Team for their third Tisch Center Angels Among Us 5K on April 30, in Durham, North Carolina! I'll be there, and I'll be running!
Friday, August 7, 2009
Hello Lil A!
I am listening to Karen hold a phone conversation with my Ashley. I am eavesdropping.
Things are heated around these parts. It is blazing hot! I hope you're finding a place to stay cool.
Things are heated around these parts. It is blazing hot! I hope you're finding a place to stay cool.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Mt. Ventoux
There's a kilometer to go on Mt. Ventoux and Armstrong is holding fast to Contador. The climb is very steep. Garate wins! Armstrong is solid in 3rd place overall. The Scheck brothers attempted to "gap" Lance and they failed.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Ist Couple of Days of Le Tour
The Tour is off to an interesting start. The Prologue took place in and around Monte Carlo. It was all very picturesque and technical. Today there was a streaking sprint finish and a Mark Cavendish victory. Columbia/High Road is a powerful team. They could be unstoppable. What do you think, Greg?
Friday, July 3, 2009
hello Friends!
Hope this finds you well. Tomorrow is Independence Day. Karen and I are enjoying a visit from Justin. He leaves tomorrow and will stop in Maize for a visit with Dan and Ashley. We'll miss having you around, Justin.
Tomorrow, I'd like to go back to the old neighborhood for the Collins Park 4th of July parade. It's fun and very low-key. In my opinion, it's the best neighborhood celebration in the City. For us, it's like going home, you know what I mean?
Have a happy and safe 4th!
P.S. Our dog hates the 4th.
Tomorrow, I'd like to go back to the old neighborhood for the Collins Park 4th of July parade. It's fun and very low-key. In my opinion, it's the best neighborhood celebration in the City. For us, it's like going home, you know what I mean?
Have a happy and safe 4th!
P.S. Our dog hates the 4th.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Hello Again
This is an early morning post and I'm a bit out of it. I'll keep this short. I just wanted let you know that I'm still here and my health is improving. Hope the same is true for you.
To Maxine: we are praying for you and your family. You've always been gracious and kind to me: a living example of Christian love. We'll always love you.
To Maxine: we are praying for you and your family. You've always been gracious and kind to me: a living example of Christian love. We'll always love you.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Summertime in Kansas
We're enjoying a mild early summer after a wet Spring. The yard is ultra-green and lush. It's going to be a great summer! I hope to see you if you can get away.
I'll try to continue regular blogging now that the pressure is off with respect to my cancer. Last night I even broke out my vinyl and played some old-school rock. Karen and I danced in the basement to Neil Young (Computer Age and Sample and Hold.) Does anyone else besides me consider Trans a great record? David Geffin Doesn't. We also danced to Edie Brickell and New Bohemians and even Johnny Horton (Whispering Pines and The Sinking of the Bismarck - for Karen). You'll be delighted to know: We can still move, lol.
I'll try to continue regular blogging now that the pressure is off with respect to my cancer. Last night I even broke out my vinyl and played some old-school rock. Karen and I danced in the basement to Neil Young (Computer Age and Sample and Hold.) Does anyone else besides me consider Trans a great record? David Geffin Doesn't. We also danced to Edie Brickell and New Bohemians and even Johnny Horton (Whispering Pines and The Sinking of the Bismarck - for Karen). You'll be delighted to know: We can still move, lol.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Wonderful News from Duke!
For the past two days Karen and I have being seeing our doctors at Duke Medical Center. We were particularly concerned about this visit because it would speak volumes about the status my brain cancer. The word is in: there are no active cancer cells in my brain! It's a true miracle! God has breathed His grace into our lives!
Please accept my deepest and most profound gratitude for your love and faith. You gave us your generous support and care. Your gifts of these things have led Karen and I to defeat a deadly and determined enemy.
Now We're not completely home free yet. The disease bears close watching and many of the therapies will continue. We face the future with humility and faith. God is great and makes all things possible.
I owe so much to each of you. The medical staff in Topeka and at Duke have done heroic things. Dr. V told us "miracles happen." How right he is! Thank you, Dr. Vredenburgh. God has given you special healing gifts. We are the benefactors of your science. Thanks also to Dr. David Einspahr (Topeka Cancer Center), our local oncologist. This gentle man has played a pivotal role in guiding my healing. Also playing key roles are Dr. Russ Greene (radiation oncology), Dr. Katy Peters (Duke Medical Fellow - we love you, Katy), and Dr. Michael Atwood (our family doctor through most of this).
I'd also be remiss if I didn't thank Dr. Matt Wills, our brilliant and gifted neurosurgeon. His strength and skill during a trying time initiated the healing process.
We haven't began to thank everyone who played a role in my recovery but I love you and all you do for me. Cancer changed some things in our lives but it never shook our faith in God's plan. With faith and your support, we have astonished everyone.
We rejoice in your love!
Your grateful friend,
John
Please accept my deepest and most profound gratitude for your love and faith. You gave us your generous support and care. Your gifts of these things have led Karen and I to defeat a deadly and determined enemy.
Now We're not completely home free yet. The disease bears close watching and many of the therapies will continue. We face the future with humility and faith. God is great and makes all things possible.
I owe so much to each of you. The medical staff in Topeka and at Duke have done heroic things. Dr. V told us "miracles happen." How right he is! Thank you, Dr. Vredenburgh. God has given you special healing gifts. We are the benefactors of your science. Thanks also to Dr. David Einspahr (Topeka Cancer Center), our local oncologist. This gentle man has played a pivotal role in guiding my healing. Also playing key roles are Dr. Russ Greene (radiation oncology), Dr. Katy Peters (Duke Medical Fellow - we love you, Katy), and Dr. Michael Atwood (our family doctor through most of this).
I'd also be remiss if I didn't thank Dr. Matt Wills, our brilliant and gifted neurosurgeon. His strength and skill during a trying time initiated the healing process.
We haven't began to thank everyone who played a role in my recovery but I love you and all you do for me. Cancer changed some things in our lives but it never shook our faith in God's plan. With faith and your support, we have astonished everyone.
We rejoice in your love!
Your grateful friend,
John
Monday, June 8, 2009
Good Morning, North Carolina
Hello from Morrisville, NC (Raleigh/Durham Airport Marriott). I have a long series of tests ahead of me today and tomorrow. I get a PET scan and an MRI today and confer with Dr. Vrendenburgh tomorrow. That along with all the requisite proding and pricking. With God's grace, we will prevail. Let's bring it on! Oh yes, and tonight, dinner with Noah and his parents, Nathan and Danielle. Can't wait for that! Makes it all worthwhile.
Friday, June 5, 2009
Our Back Yard
Karen and I spent a large portion of the last two days working on our yard. It's paying off. The back yard is especially showy with Karen's gardening. She is justifiably proud of her work. I think the yard looks better than it ever has before. If it's nice tomorrow, I'll blog a few of pics of it.
We're off to Durham, NC, Sunday. Danielle and Nathan, I hope you won't mind a couple of drop-by visitors on Sunday and/or Monday. We are anxious to meet our new nephew.
Love,
John
Friday, May 29, 2009
Visit to the 'TA' and Pool Filling
Ouch! Two weeks since my last post. Inexcusable! We had a great time with Ashley and Dan last weekend in Wichita (or the 'Ta as I like to say). Their black lab, Dugan, is growing fast. Careful kids, that dog is approaching 50 lbs. He is as sweet at he can be. I found he has a penchant for fetch it. He's like an outfielder who dives and twirls in mid-air while grabbing his ball. Then he runs back with the ball in his chops and wrestles you for the ball. Lots of fun! We loved our visit. Lets do it again soon!
Come on over and let's get in the pool!
The flowers are from our backyard.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Here Comes Noah!
Like everyone else, Karen and I are awaiting the delivery of Noah Henry. Dani, I hope you're as comfortable as possible. We are very excited for you and Nathan. We're staying close to the phone and the internet for breaking Noah News. Push, Danielle, push!!
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Hello and a Thanks
Congratutions to Ashley for getting raves from her employers. Ashley was runner-up for a national recognition award for her superlative performance at work. I know you're bound for greatness! Karen and I are very proud of you!
I now have my wireless router back, thanks to a Netgear tech from India. Ramesh talked me through the fix where others had failed. The Geek Squad guy, for instance, suggested a new router. I am delighted to have my wireless router back to full functionality. I told Ramesh he was my hero but he said, "It's nothing...that's what I'm paid to do." This in spite of the fact that there was no warranty because I hadn't returned the card. What service! and for no cost.
I now have my wireless router back, thanks to a Netgear tech from India. Ramesh talked me through the fix where others had failed. The Geek Squad guy, for instance, suggested a new router. I am delighted to have my wireless router back to full functionality. I told Ramesh he was my hero but he said, "It's nothing...that's what I'm paid to do." This in spite of the fact that there was no warranty because I hadn't returned the card. What service! and for no cost.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Pluto is a Planet
I love this tune, Pluto, by 2 Skinnee Js. I believe it's about accepting those who wish to live among us:
Who do you represent? I represent the smallest planet
Attorney in this tourney against those who try to ban it
Who discriminate against the distant and disclaim this
'Cause their small minds can't see past Uranus
But my odyssey runs in 2001 ways
I can see clearly now like Hubble
shoved from the Shuttle, here's my rebuttal
It's a Planet
So lend me your ears and let me state my case
about all the types of satellites we must embrace
Cause like my parents grandparents - this planet was an immigrant
Do it for the children
Do it for the children (if not for yourself)
Pluto is a planet
2 Skinnee Js
Supermercado
What would you expect from me? One of my favorite albums is Mister Heartbreak by Laurie Anderson.
Who do you represent? I represent the smallest planet
Attorney in this tourney against those who try to ban it
Who discriminate against the distant and disclaim this
'Cause their small minds can't see past Uranus
But my odyssey runs in 2001 ways
I can see clearly now like Hubble
shoved from the Shuttle, here's my rebuttal
It's a Planet
So lend me your ears and let me state my case
about all the types of satellites we must embrace
Cause like my parents grandparents - this planet was an immigrant
Do it for the children
Do it for the children (if not for yourself)
Pluto is a planet
2 Skinnee Js
Supermercado
What would you expect from me? One of my favorite albums is Mister Heartbreak by Laurie Anderson.
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