As always, prayers are with you Leroy.

Sent by Jen | 7:41 AM ET | 02-20-2008

I know how hard it is to say goodbye to caregiving nurses who have selflessly provided for you. They are so special to me. You can tell it is a calling. Nursing is not for everyone. Okay, here goes. One, two, three, I lift you up spiritually Leroy to the lord that you might have a semblance of comfort and lots of peace as you begin this next battle to get back what was taken from you. Amen.

Sent by Kim | 7:42 AM ET | 02-20-2008

like Dory says in "Finding Nemo"...
"just keep swimming, just keep swimming"
:)

Sent by Jenn | 7:43 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Good, good Morning Leroy & Laurie! UP & AT em'. It sounds like a giant step forward and now, you get to work! No wonder they were so nice to you all with the lovely picnic and Cheese-Steaks! You will hurt and work Leroy, but we shall be with you for every painful step - cheering you on.
Love you guys!

Sent by J C R | 7:44 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Lifting you both up...sending positive vibes your way...

And I completely understand what you mean about being sorry to leave the nurses...I've felt that too. They become your 'family' during the intense times of hospitalization and if they exhibit excellence in their care and compassion, it makes it all the harder to go...

Thanks Laurie, your updates are appreciated so much. We love you both...

Sent by Faun | 7:45 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Laura - While I miss Leroy's comments, I have to say that I have thoroughly enjoyed your daily posts. You seem a woman of uncommon strength - something I really admire. Just wanted to tell you that. You inspire us as equally as Leroy does, as the "one" who supports those of us who fight the beast. We all have that person, and you are an exceptional example. Keep up the good fight!

Sent by Martha in FL | 7:45 AM ET | 02-20-2008

He is strong and he will LIFT!!!! We are all here praying .We are a team in this together "stay strong!!! "

Sent by luisa | 7:52 AM ET | 02-20-2008

I take this to be a VERY positive sign. The PT will be difficult but at the end of it, Leroy will have some,if not all, of his mobility restored. There will be pain and frustration to deal with but each day, he gets closer to Home. Remember the meds so that the PT can be tolerable and accomplish what it is intended to do.

Prayers as always.

Sent by Al Cato | 7:58 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Well that is one step foward! When my mother-in-law was in the hospital we were sad to say good-bye to her "team"--there is an attachment that forms, and a good one.
We are all here to lift Leroy--even though we know he has all the gumption in the world to do so himself.

Sent by Kathleen, NJ | 8:04 AM ET | 02-20-2008

lifting him in prayer right now!

Sent by sarah | 8:04 AM ET | 02-20-2008

LIFTING...LIFTING...LIFTING! WE'RE ALL HERE WANTING TO HELP LIFT!

Big hugs to you both!

Sent by Lori | 8:07 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Dear Laurie and Leroy,

I understand the feeling of loss as you change care teams. You know the group you had, they knew you. Now you have to become accustomed to new faces, schedules, and expectations. Yet, this change is a good thing. Had they not thought it was time, I doubt that the change would have happened.

So, yes.... 1, 2, 3.... Leroy get moving and get stronger! This is a big step forward! As always, I will keep my positive thoughts flowing in your direction, and if I were not so tired of the snow and cold, I would send a snowball too. :)

Sent by Sue Chap | 8:15 AM ET | 02-20-2008

I know he will fight the fight that he needs in order to win...if only for today. Tomorrow is another day. Good luck Leroy. You are in my thoughts every day.

Sent by Helene Weingarten | 8:23 AM ET | 02-20-2008

It's amazing, and rather scary how quickly ability can leave, and how long it can take to get it back. I know that Leroy is going to work hard in rehab to get moving again, but I'm so sorry that he has to. I used to work as a nurse in a rehab hospital. He'll do therapy, possibly a couple of time per day, and rest in between. You know that we're all rooting him on. It's one step at a time...go get em!

Sent by Nancy K. Clark | 8:30 AM ET | 02-20-2008

I'm pushing, pulling, and praying for you Leroy and Laurie.

Sent by Nichole in FL | 8:35 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Laurie and Leroy, There is a lot of energy being sent towards Leroys way. I know the road back will be hard. But the determination that we have always seen I am sure will come through.

I do know what you mean about leaveing those that have worked so hard with you to help you get through a situation like Leroy has just gone through. But, now regroup and on to that next battle. We will all continue to send our energy and prayers your way. Stay Strong.

Sent by dorothy in oregon | 8:38 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Dear Laurie,

If healing thoughts, wishes and prayers from the virtual world can help, we're here to push, pull, stand, and fight for the both of you. Your strength is awesome.

My best to you both as confront yet another phase in Leroy's recovery. Hugs, prayers and good thoughts to you both.

Erica

Sent by Erica | 8:40 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Wish we could all be there to help LIFT Larry up and onto healing. It will be a long haul, but this is definately a step in the right direction. Take care of you, too, Laurie.

Sent by JJG | 8:43 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Lifting with you both all the way. Send prayers and strong thoughts your way.
with care, Anne

Sent by anne lumberger | 8:45 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Love your post - and thanks so much!!!! I'm lifting, lifting, lifting!!! you both up!
You guys will do it! You'll get your "new normal" back!!!!

Sent by Ruth Chermok | 8:46 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Leroy and Laurie, Congratulations to Leroy on moving to the PT ward. I am praying that soon he is able to walk out of there altogether! Sending a big push your way. Prayers to all you,

Sent by Susie R. from Col, OH | 8:50 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Unabashed Leroy and Laurie fan, as well as a sports fan. Some frivolous parallels while going thru PT - baseball spring training, the NFL Draft Combine in Indy next week. We all like to imagine ourselves getting stronger, and within limits, we can.

Sent by Jack B. | 8:51 AM ET | 02-20-2008

I know Leroy will push himself at the PT as he seems to do at everything. But what great news that he's at the point where physical therapy is what he has to do to get back his mobility. Yay!

Sent by N.R. | 8:51 AM ET | 02-20-2008

My faith was "Lifted" yet again and I hope you and Leroy's as well. You both are in my thoughts and prayers and it is so good to hear good and progressive news.

Stay strong fighter and battle that Beast till you smash it!

God Bless you both!

Love,
Cristina

Sent by Cristina Gonzalez, Tampa, Florida | 8:53 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Laurie and Leroy,

We are LIFTING! I hope Leroy will find the PT work satisfying; I suspect it will feel like tough love after docs bringing steak sandwiches.
Courage (say that with a french accent!).
Eleanor

Sent by Eleanor | 8:58 AM ET | 02-20-2008

We are all lifting with you, and the power of the mind is awsome. It's not odd to say you are a little sorry to say bood-bye, they were your life line and they understood. Every three months when I go for check-ups and my chemo nurses give me a hug it gives me a very secure feeling because I know they will be there if I need them.

Sent by Kris | 8:59 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Dear Leroy/Laurie,
We are all here lifting! Prayers go up......blessings come down.

Sent by Sasha | 9:01 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Good news - moving forward one step at a time. Sending you cyber hands for support, strengthening, and transfers onto the road to healing & recovery.

One small step for your cheerleaders and one huge leap for you Laurie & Leroy!!

Sent by lisa | 9:02 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Here's to great success at the new facility! My husband transferred to a long term acute care facility in pretty rough shape - and I admit there were times I feared he would never come home. But he did ... and he's walking again, thanks to some wonderful PT. Lots of hard work is in store, but I have no doubt you are both up to it. One day at a time ....

Sent by Dianne in Nevada | 9:05 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Dear Leroy and Laurie,

Lifting you both with prayers and good wishes. Stay strong.

Sent by Connie | 9:15 AM ET | 02-20-2008

It's wonderful that Leroy is going forward. I'm praying that his recovery is easier than he expects. Linda

Sent by Linda | 9:15 AM ET | 02-20-2008

You can do it Leroy...Man against beast, no competition.
Do the best you can and you will have succeeded.

God bless you both.

Judy

Sent by Judy Voller | 9:17 AM ET | 02-20-2008

ahhhh....acute rehabilitation....makes boot camp look easy!! It will be worth the work in the end, Leroy. Prayers to you and Laurie!

Sent by Karen | 9:17 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Ready, steady, PUUUUUSH! Geez, Leroy. You've gotta lay off those cheese steaks. ;)

Look at the change as moving down the road to freedom. We learn to walk at such an early age, and to have that freedom taken away is extremely tough. Was just watching a one-year-old yesterday, and his sheer joy at just being able to motor around on his own. His sense of mastery was palpable.

Not trying to compare you to a toddler, Leroy. There's just something to be said for going back to being a beginner. Zen concept -- beginner's mind. You bring more energy, more creativity to the process.

And, yes, an unwanted, unasked for, lesson in humility -- any of us who've endured cancer really don't need another one of those lessons. But it's there anyway.

Love to you and Laurie. And I give you permission to yelp really loudly if they cause you any pain! They're used to kids doing that, but it really takes them by surprise when an adult does it. Just think of how many times the medical folks have taken you guys by surprise. It's just my small way of keeping the balance of power a bit more equal...

Sent by Jordis | 9:19 AM ET | 02-20-2008

I am lifting you up with my prayers. Once leroy is up, I can't see him stopping!!

Sent by Kate | 9:25 AM ET | 02-20-2008

YOU CAN DO IT!!! Continued prayers and support coming your way...!

Sent by Laurie Hirth | 9:26 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Laurie, you are an absolute gem for keeping us updated on Leroy's condition, and keeping the blog going. Checking in here has become a part of my daily routine.
I'm especially delighted to hear that Leroy continues to confound and surprise the doctors, but I still wish I could be there to help out.

Sent by Lesa in Kansas | 9:34 AM ET | 02-20-2008

I am lifting from Louisville Ky! My best wishes to you both. Hang in there.

Sent by Beth S. | 9:36 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Leroy, This thought has gotten me through some very difficult times. One Step In Front Of The Other. Keep going. One Step In Front Of The Other.Keep Going. Look up occassionally to see where you are, and celebrate what you have done. One Step In Front Of The Other.

Sent by Leah | 9:37 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Leroy and Laurie, while I've never had cancer, I've had joint issues for 30 years and various rounds of physical therapy and rehabilitation, so I can offer this advice - the progress comes sometimes excruciatingly slow, sometimes surprisingly fast. Keep your head up and work through it and at one point you'll realize you're able to do so much more than you were a month ago, a week ago or even the day before.

Prayers and positive vibes to both of you.

Patty

Sent by patty | 9:46 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Consider yourselves levitated!

Sent by Sarah | 9:59 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Lots of lifting from PA. Acute rehab couldn't happen to a nicer guy. It means they believe in you, in your ability to recover. And you blog friends do too. Good luck Leroy in this part of your journey! I love what Sasha says so well, prayers go up and blessings come down. We are behind you Leroy. We are right behind you.

Sent by JMoyer | 9:59 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Lifting in Columbia City, IN. Man 6'5" is a lot!
Prayers in the air!

Sent by Kelly D | 10:03 AM ET | 02-20-2008

This is such great news. I'm grinning from ear to ear. Those cheesesteaks are apparently great motivators. Maybe dangling one on a stick in front of Leroy will encourage just one more step?

Hang in there. We're all here cheering you on!

Sent by Karole Ives, Duluth MN | 10:06 AM ET | 02-20-2008

I am lifting as best I can (I am only 104 lbs Leroy!) I hope everyone here who needs a lift is feeling it, all the Leroys of the world.

Sent by DiAnn | 10:09 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Up he goes!!!

Sent by Lisa | 10:11 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Pushing from the South up to the North ...

Sent by jen in NOLA | 10:13 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Lifting with all my might. Peace and prayers.

Sent by Julie | 10:15 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Funny how sending a lift can bring one back around in a circle. Lifting you & Leroy can bring a lift back for us too. You & Leroy & our collective strenght causes our spirits to lift & then to soar.

Sent by CynS. | 10:29 AM ET | 02-20-2008

I think that if all of us visualize Leroy on the other side of his trip-walking-it sure couldn't hurt.
Monday, at yoga class, I realized that there are some big range of motion issues with my shoulder,still, after my neck dissection a month ago. I think I will be asking for a PT referral at my follow up with my surgeon next week.
I hope Leroy gets a skilled and kind physical therapist and lots of encouragement when it feels like one step forward and two steps back.
Laurie, know how much we all appreciate you and big hugs to both of you!

Sent by NancyGM | 10:31 AM ET | 02-20-2008

I know there is a special place in heaven for the wonderful people who work in oncology.

Leroy, one step at a time.

Kathy

Sent by Kathy Barney | 10:35 AM ET | 02-20-2008

What a huge step! Go get 'em Leroy! Laurie, thank you so much for keeping us updated! We will be praying and imagining Leroy making great progress!

Sent by Marcy in NJ | 10:37 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Leroy's used to fighting. And he's good at it! You are a great team. And thanks for hanging with us, and keeping us informed. We would have been lost this last week or so without you keeping us in the loop.

Your cheerleaders are here for you, Leroy.

Sent by Kathleen | 10:40 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Leroy and Laurie,
Losing familiar cargivers is one of the least appreciated hurdles cancer patients face in our fragmented, specialized health care system. The relationships we develop with those health care providers on our team are part of our healing.

Still, when it's time to move on, it's time to get going. Going to PT means progress. PT people are wonderful! They have an optimism that is infectious. You'll love them, and they will love you, too!

All the best.

Sent by Marilyn | 10:42 AM ET | 02-20-2008

GO LEROY! Forward that is : )

Sent by Robin | 10:51 AM ET | 02-20-2008

He is lifted up as high as possible here in West Virginia. Both of you hang in there and look to the day when you can both go home. Think of cheesesteaks, chocolate cupcakes, and shortbread cookies with chocolate in the middle sitting on your couch and watching a great movie....not to mention painfree. Love to you both.

Sent by Teresa in WV | 11:04 AM ET | 02-20-2008

This will happen. It will be tough, and challenging, but if anyone can do it, it is you, Leroy. We are all with you.

Breathe in the healing, breathe out the pain. In, out...in, out.

Sasha: My prayers and best wishes are with you, too.

Sent by Laurel M. Jones | 11:07 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Thaks for keeping us updated! Cancer is such an awful, awful disease. Take care of yourself. I imagine this must be a difficult time for the both of you

Karen

Sent by Karen | 11:07 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Pushing with everything I have to give you a HUGE lift!!!!!

Sent by Deb from Michigan | 11:12 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Hurray from Massachusetts! Lifting, pushing, pulling...whatever it takes. Based on the PT/rehab experiences of two (my mother and I, both over 50), you should find PT a positive experience. 1) Just doing the exercises helps one feel that one is making positive progress and has some measure of control. 2) There is a nearly daily level of accomplishment, some days a little, some days a lot - always forward. and 3) The dedicated staff and the array and variety of equipment will buoy your spirits, feeding your healthy can-do attitude.

Sent by Sheara | 11:13 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Dear Laurie and Leroy -

I have never posted before, but really wanted to put into writing what I say everyday when I read your entries - You Go Leroy! I am here cheering you on. You have been an amazing source of strength and perspective on life in general, and in fighting any challenge that one may be fighting in their life. Thank you for that. On the occasional day when you sound down or tired, as we all do sometimes, I may say outloud, Awww Leroy. But you always bounce back stronger in the next days, which in turn reminds me not to stay down and to find that inner strength. So - You Go Leroy! Keep up the good fight, you are an amazing person! I will be here cheering you on as we all will.

Sent by Jill in Madison, WI | 11:17 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Great news! I know this is going to be a time of hard work and discomfort but the prize will be worth the work. Hopefully, the next move will be home with less pain and more mobility than previously. Best wishes.

Sent by Dona | 11:25 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Leroy and Laurie

We're lifting, we're lifting -one,two, three, push!

Vaya con Dios

John Shippee
Atlanta, GA.

Sent by John Shippee | 11:27 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Laurie, always a pleasure to offer "uplifting" thoughts and well wishes to you both.

Sent by Pat Z | 11:36 AM ET | 02-20-2008

Count me in for the cyber-lift team. You and Laurie continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you both for your continuing and amazing inspiration.
Bonita - Seattle, WA

Sent by Bonita Rostenbach | 12:15 PM ET | 02-20-2008

Can you hear all of us grunting?

Sent by Marilyn Trujillo | 12:42 PM ET | 02-20-2008

Oh, I quoted before what my precious Dad always used to say. Oone foot ahead of the other and keep walking. In this case Leroy will have to push hard for that one foot ahead.....but you know Laurie, there is not one of us, who doubt he will take many steps forward.....if only you knew how much we are lifting! Prayers and love, and May the Grace of God be with you.
Wanda Amorose

Sent by Wanda Amorose | 12:56 PM ET | 02-20-2008

We are lifting Leroy!

Lori you have been absolutely awesome in what has to have been one of the most difficulty times you have experienced.

We are loving and lifting you both through our prayers.

Sent by C. Sivula | 1:04 PM ET | 02-20-2008

Wow. This is a huge step in the right direction.

Can you feel it? We're LIFTING you both!

Sent by Janice J. , Los Angeles | 1:05 PM ET | 02-20-2008

For all of us, each day, it's either "get busy living or get busy dying"... you've made the right choice. Just remember, they don't call them "Physical Terrorists" for nothing. It will be worth it.

Sent by S. Carrier | 1:07 PM ET | 02-20-2008

He ain't heavy, he's our buddy. (Sorry, couldn't resist). Will continue to pray for gentler times for you both.

Sent by Sharon | 1:51 PM ET | 02-20-2008

Leroy, you'll get to the point where you will hate the physical terrorists, er, ah...therapists, who are trying to help you. But, as hard as it may be to believe, they really do have your best interest at heart and want you to get better. They only look like lab coat wearing sadists....

And we want you to get better, too, so heave ho and up you go!

Sent by Joyce in FL | 1:52 PM ET | 02-20-2008

Laurie and Leroy,
This entry brought a big smile to my face. I'm so touched that you trust us all to be here and 1-2-3-LIFT!

Sent by Dianne (DC) | 2:09 PM ET | 02-20-2008

Many thanks for the wonderfully written updates and the good news of progress have reached me here in Europe, where I continue to follow this site with admiration and a deep appreciation for the effort it takes to tell both your stories. Much luck with this new challenge. We are with you both, as always!

Sent by maris | 2:23 PM ET | 02-20-2008

Leroy and Laurie: Keep plugging away, and one foot in front of the other.

You have many helping you in your therapy, if in spirit only.

Sent by Scottt S. | 2:25 PM ET | 02-20-2008

We are all "lifting" with our hearts, our minds, and our spirits. One...two...three...lift!!!!

Sent by Cindy in Virginia | 2:43 PM ET | 02-20-2008

Laurie, Although, the move sounds bitter-sweet, you put a smile on my face with this news.

1-2-3-Lift, a great motto for all of us!

Sent by Laurie | 3:01 PM ET | 02-20-2008

1-2-3- LIFT, I am pushing with all I've got... I know that prayer and mental support can do a lot so go Leroy, go. Laurie take care of yourself, you have a heavy burden to bear, know that we are all holding you up as well.

Sent by Elizabeth | 4:58 PM ET | 02-20-2008

Dear Laurie and Leroy,
Sending you all the strength and love I can! I'll be there in spirit, as will so many others, to give you 1-2-3-LIFT!!
Always with you!! Jude

Sent by Judith Tynan | 5:26 PM ET | 02-20-2008

Laurie, you are doing an amazing job!!

And Leroy, this is just like falling off a piece of cake ;-) Put all your anger into it and behold the power of one!

Sent by Karen D. | 5:35 PM ET | 02-20-2008

Sending you both a lift. I've been reading this blog for a couple of years now and it's been fine company through my family and my own ordeals with cancer. I appreciate it a lot and I hope you are getting better.

Sent by Grace T | 5:51 PM ET | 02-20-2008

Your cheerleaders are all at the ready-------pushing, pulling, urging, cajoling, but most importantly praying!xxooo

Sent by Jo Ann Baswell | 5:58 PM ET | 02-20-2008

My chemo nurses were the best. So much compassion. I was as scared as anyone could be. They were there through every round with positive reinforcement and always an open ear to talk to or shoulder to lean on.

Laurie, thanks for keeping us up to date. You're doing a great job.

I'm lifting with my legs and not my back. Onward we go!

Sent by Dave U. | 7:00 PM ET | 02-20-2008

PT - THE WONDERS OF THE HELL OF IT! AFTER THREE HIP SURGERIES I STILL LOVE THOSE PEOPLE MORE THAN ANYONE! PRAYERS AND GOOD WISHES TO YOU - MUCH LOVE ALWAYS - AND YOU ARE BOTH SO SO DEAR IN MY HEART AND PRAYERS.
LOVE, JAN

Sent by JANICE GOLDBERG WHITE | 8:08 PM ET | 02-20-2008

It is amazing to me, how something so steeped in suffering can be so uplifting. All of the postings are really terrific and to read such an outpouring of encouragement and love is a gift. What a blessing.

Sent by N. Holmes | 8:14 PM ET | 02-20-2008

Your statement, Laurie, "Everybody lift" reminded me of last year around this time. After two operations, my mother was going through therapy. It took 2 PTs, myself and Mom to get her in standing position. That was her first exercise, stand for 30 seconds. It's that kind of support that produces amazing results. Keep up the good work, Leroy.

Sent by Paulette | 10:47 PM ET | 02-20-2008

Lifting here too. Perhaps I should leave more notes, but tho I don't I'm always here reading and praying. More cookies and cheese steak too.

Sent by Mage Bailey | 10:55 PM ET | 02-20-2008

Laurie, I am so happy he is moving forward. I will lift for All I am worth. Those folks are awesome!! I hope his progress continues favorably. Now, it seems the real work begins. I hate Cancer!!! Love to all, Stan

Sent by Stan Wozniak | 11:05 PM ET | 02-20-2008

Leroy...We're liftin' you higher...than you've ever been lifted before!
Good thoughts going out to you both.

Sent by Deb | 11:15 PM ET | 02-20-2008

Go, Leroy! I'm reminded of a song we used to sing in church when I was a kid: "Love Lifted Me" If love can do it, you are sure to make good progress.

Sent by Doris | 11:22 PM ET | 02-20-2008

I don't have cancer though like all I have been touched by it. But I follow Leroy's blog as just kind of a journal through life, also when I have a tough day at work (and this may not be fair but I don't think he would mind) I read his blog and think why am I such a crybaby. Why do I get so upset and so tied down in such little things? Why do I let my blood pressure go so high over things that in the grand scheme do not really matter much? I know such talk is trite and we will go to friends funeral one week and then the next week find ourselves back to the same bad habits of stressing out over life's little things. Stress I am convinced that is what puts half of us into early graves and much of it is self imposed. If one man can face so much with courage and dignity I keep telling myself I should handle life's little bumps with grace and calm.

Sent by James Hayashi | 11:50 PM ET | 02-20-2008

Another step forward! That is great news. I am so happy to hear that Leroy is moving from medical to physical. One step at a time, one foot in front of the other. It makes me think of that cute little song from one of the Christmas movies. Sending love and positive energy hoping to lift you with hope.

Sent by Jennifer in CA | 12:35 AM ET | 02-21-2008

What great news to hear that SuperLeroy was on to Rehab, take one day at a time and the progress will come. Know that we are lifting Leroy up with several million helping hands from all over the country, God's grace be with both of you and glad to hear that there are still small gifts that mean so much in one's life, for example the cheese steaks. Provecho y que dios los bendiga y le de su salud. Lourdes in New Mexico

Sent by Lourdes MendezRodriguez RN | 2:09 AM ET | 02-21-2008

Nancy GM - I had wide excision of shoulder and neck dissection October/Nov. 2006 followed by radiation. Neck still very tight in spite of PT and massage. Believe scar tissue is permanent. Bob A.

Sent by Bob Augello | 10:51 AM ET | 02-21-2008