Editor's Note
Leroy is in the hospital. His doctors are doing tests on his spine because of his undiminished pain and new muscle weakness. He may need more surgery.
We'll post more information as we get it.
7:03 AM ET | 02- 6-2008 | permalink
Comments (Send a comment)
I'm praying for you Leroy. Be strong. Karen
Leroy, i hope at least they will give you stronger pain medicine today so you will get some rest. good luck. you're in my prayers. crow
Maeve and NPR, thank you for letting us know. Leroy, I know how unhappy you must be to be back in the hospital. As always, we are all with you there, holding your hand through every step.
Leroy, my prayers are with you each day for your strength and comfort. God Bless.
My prayers are with you both.
Be strong Leroy I will have you in my thoughts and praying for you
Maeve, thanks for the update. I had a feeling that the weakness would require investigation. We're all praying for relief for Leroys' pain and distress.
Dear Maeve,
To Leroy and Laurie,
I am in way not surprised and sending prayers of healing and strength their way.
Leroy you are in my thoughts and prayers every minute!!!!! We just lost my dad on 12/14 to cancer and it has been the most difficult times I (my family) have had to face. I say this because I had to stop reading the blog for some time due to my emotional state. Last week the title of one of your blogs caught my attention and I had to read it. It was the one of which the woman from Hospice met with you, since then it has been REALLY difficult and I have cried so much but I have read your blog and can't stop. I am so worried for you and want you to get better!!!! I think of you alot and though I have not met you, you are always on my mind and at dinner time we always talk about you often. You helped me when my dad was alive and well and coping/fighting his STRONG battle with this "Monster" and now that he is in heaven you are helping me to deal with my loss.
I hope you get better really soon and that you are home and well with minimal pain or something to control it better for you.
Love,
Cristina Gonzalez
Tampa, Florida
All my best thoughts and prayers. You go guy!!!!! All will be well.
Love and prayers are with you both.
Oh how I ache to read this blog each day in hopes of pain-free, happier, and healthier days. Leroy and family, you are in my prayers today and always.
So sorry to hear of this new situation. I can only hope perhaps they will be able to get you more comfortable. Peace be with you Leroy.
I am always in awe of you Leroy that you never get a break from sharing your journey. Some days that must be hard to do. I pray for the doctors to alleviate this pain and that you will be able to be comfortable soon. Just take the time you need to heal.
Leroy, Laurie et al, Thoughts are with you. Hang onto Hope.
Just another concerned person who keeps up with Leroy's life wishing good things to come his way.
Dear Leroy,
Thinking of you (and your doctors) and praying for super human healing and wisdom.
Best wishes from Pittsburgh for a short, pain-relieving stay in the hospital with a good meal waiting for you when you get home (I'm sending a virtual bowl of matzoh ball soup and a corned beef sandwich).
Maeve and NPR:
Thank you so much for keeping us in the loop. I appreciate the update.
Leroy and Laurie,
My thoughts will be with you all day.
Liz
Prayers continue for you Leroy for continued peace and strength.
Sending many prayers and positive, healing thoughts your way Leroy - praying very hard for no pain.
To our dear friend and his loving family. Those of us on the blog love you both as very dear friends and what happens to you is happening to us. As we would do for a brother and friend, we will wait and be with you both in spirit. Friends forever.
Linda
Dear Leroy,
I am so sorry that you are having to go thru this. My thoughts and prayers are with you and Laurie and that soon you will have your strength back and less pain. This really sucks, you have been thru way too much. Please know I am thinking of you everyday and hope you are feeling much better soon.
Hugs and Hope,
Lianne
Sending wisdom, strength, and hope to all who are caring for Leroy...
Leroy, I agree with Kim...and am in awe of your staying power. My love and prayers go out to you and Laurie...
Peace my friend.
May the love of so many provide a barrier between you and the pain.
Leroy:
Namaste.
Love, Don
We have you both in our prayers, and for this extended family too. Thoughts of comfort, understanding, healing, joy, hospital gowns that close in the back, smiles, strength, drinks with little umbrellas, unwavering respect and faith. Willing you all good things.
Thank you for the update:
Leroy, stay strong my friend. You are in our prayers and we fight right along with you! Laurie, this has to be awful for you, find strength with your family and friends, your blogger family is with you in spirit today and always.
Thoughts and prayers are with you all as always!
Thank you for keeping us informed as though we were really family. That is so kind of you all!
However everything in my being wants to cry out after hearing this latest development, "oh no, please leave Leroy alone.Do not operate on his poor body again!". But we all know that it may be his only chance to find freedom from the pain that is ruining his life. So, Our thoughts are with you and we wish for the best.
Dear Leroy, Laurie and Maeve,
Just another of your fans checking in to tell you that I'm thinking of you and supporting you as you make decisions about this present obstacle. You guys are a gift to us, within and without cancer world, for sharing your experiences. Hope you can zap the pain without creating more.
Our prayers are with you and your family. Be well and have faith.
Linda
My thoughts and prayers are with you as I was diagnosed last April with stage 4 colon cancer. It has metastasized to my liver and lungs and as I read your blog daily I relate so well.Please keep us all informed as best you can. I know well the good days and bad days.You are an inspiration to many people including myself. God bless you in your recovery.
Caring thoughts and fervent prayers for you and those who love and care for you.
Hugs and prayers from Rochester, NY.
Leroy, I listen to your radio broadcast and read your blog. I cheer for you, cry with you, and hope for you!
I've been offline for a few days and was just catching up when I received this latest news. I'm so sorry for the weakness and the fears they have brought you. In this case, the hospital is a good place to be. Let them figure this out and determine the next course of action. You just rest and take it one day at time...and know that you and Laurie are always in our prayers.
Praying...
Sending you prayers and strength. With care, Anne
Sometimes my heart identitfies way too much with the Cowardly Lion before he met Dorothy. But in the end, it was love that gave him his true strength. The love you have loosed in writing this blog is yours to draw on during these scary days. We think of you.
Sending good vibes your way Leroy. LiveSTRONG!
I am really grateful that NPR is keeping all of us informed. Even though most of us have never met each other or Leroy in person, we would worry and it's nice that a big organization like NPR cares about that.
Leroy, Laurie, and other loved ones and family of Leroy-my paryaers are with you all. I am praying this will be a blessing in disguise where they find some way of dealing with the pain as well as the weakness. And soon.
To Leroy & Laurie, and all who love them:
Thanks for the updates, even when it is news we do not want to hear. Our thoughts are focused on you.
Prayers all day from Chicago.
Dear Leroy and Laurie,
You are in my thoughts and prayers for a quick and pain-free recovery.
Hi Leroy,
I think about you every single day....I wish you to find some comfort, and with whatever means possible. I wish I could take some of your suffering, so that you could have a good nights sleep or enjoy a beautiful day outside in a chair with a book. Wouldn't it be great if all of us could take a smidgen of your pain, it would not be so bad divided among those of us who love and support you. A twinge of pain amongst us all would remind us that we are here helping you through this.
It was with trepidation that I approached this space this morning. I'm hoping for a real solution to your pain and a return of strength. We all appreciate you keeping us informed. We, your family, care very much for you and yours.
Dear Leroy,
You are a gentleman, a great warrior and
an inspiration to us all, well done you!
You continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.
Terrell
Be strong, be pain-free, be home before you know it... that is my prayer for today.
Maeve, thanks for keeping his "family" updated. Give our love to Leroy and Laurie.
Dear Leroy,
Praying for you and Laurie, especially today, and everyone here. May God be with you all.
Leroy, we pray for your health and relief from pain. Hang in there.
Thank you for the update.
Love and prayers,
Lori
Dear Leroy and Family and Dear Friends,
Our hearts and Love are with you ALL at this time------thank you for the info. xox dee
Sending positive and healing thoughts your way. Hope all goes well.
Praying for you guys.
To the Editor, please update as you can. Leory is like family to all of us. Thanks so much for your update this morning.
Thank you NPR for the update. Dearest Leroy and Laurie, please know that we are all pulling for you to be pain free as possible and return home soon. You are in our thoughts and prayers around the world. God Speed
I am sure like many of you, my mood and general outlook are often times affected by what I read on Leroy's blog. I have to say this is not what I wanted to read this morning. When I saw the title of this post I delayed reading it, knowing it was not going to be something I wanted to see.
Hopefully this will be only a minor setback before an amazing comeback.
I echo the above...our hearts are with you.
Leroy and Laurie - You're in my thoughts and prayers this morning. Maeve, thank you posting the updated, however unwelcome the news.
we are praying for you leroy stay strong to the end.
Leroy & Lori -
I'm so sorry about this development. You've been through so much and now another surgery? I'm so sorry.
We're here and we care so much. We'll all be here, praying and hoping, until Leroy is back with us. Take care.
My highest thoughts and best intentions going to you and Laurie.
Leroy, you're in my thoughts and prayers.
Dear Leroy and Laurie,
My prayers are with you both. May God's grace work his healing wonders through the Doctors, and give you both strength, as you face these struggles.
Prayers, Faith and blessings for you both today.
Wanda Amorose
Prayers.
Dear Leroy and Laurie, I'm sending prayers and thoughts for your comfort and healing. I'm glad that your doctors are responding to the weakness right away. Please just rest and know we are here caring about you. Let your capable staff keep us filled in, and take all of the time that you need.
praying hard leroy..praying hard.
Dear Leroy, My hope is that you are comfortable and being well taken care of. You and Laurie are in my thoughts and prayers. Peace and hope.
Leroy,
We are thinking of you and your docs and hoping for effective treatment.
Thanks for letting us know. Rest and recover. I will be thinking of you.
Here's hoping and praying the docs can find out what's causing this latest round of difficulties and can fix it. At the very least, you'll be somewhere where SOMETHING is being done, instead of laying in bed worrying. I know -- now you'll be laying in a hospital bed worrying, but I'm hopeful the docs will find a way to make things better for you. Yeah, the food sucks. But that's what Laurie and friends can do -- bring you take-out from your favorite restaurants. Love and prayers and positive juju to you, Leroy. Can't wait until you're back home, blogging about how boring tv is!
Love and prayers...
God bless.
Anita
DEAR LEROY AND LAURIE,
MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU...YOU WILL BE IN MY THOUGHTS!
LOVE TO BOTH OF YOU,
JUDE
My thoughts are with you and yours today. You have lived strong you have made a difference and absolutely nothing can change that. I do pray they can find some relief for your pain. Thoughts and prayers always. Deb
Thank you for the update. My prayers are for clarity for the doctors diagnosing Leroy's pain and insight into relieving it. He deserves some rest.
You are in my thoughts today and every day. I so look forward to reading your blog. I hope you know that you are an inspiration to many, many people who are facing the difficult challenges of a diagnosis of cancer.
Praying for you Leroy and I hope your pain goes away soon. We wait to hear from you again.
Leroy, I carry you around in my heart today, hoping that your pain will be lessened, and that you will feel your inner strength even as your body feels its limits.
Kay
My day starts with this blog. Thank you Maeve for the update. Leroy, I'll carry you in my thoughts all day. One good thing I can see is that they can find what's causing the pain and you can have some comfortable days ahead. So much detective work on your body! What a painful mystery for you. I hope we will read your own words again soon, telling us the story. Here for you, Sally and Tom in Spokane
You are in my prayers.
Leroy,
I read this blog every day, although I rarely comment. There are so many eloquent people who participate here that I usually feel like there is nothing more I can add. Today I send my prayers in a comment because I want you to know that there are many more people praying for you than are reflected in the number of comments that you typically receive on this blog.
Leroy,
God be with you at this difficult time.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Thanks for the update. Echoing others, we are thinking of you alot Leroy. Come back when you feel like it, we will be here.
Stay strong, Leroy! I hope you can feel all of us wrapped around you like a warm blanket. Many prayers and well wishes for encouraging news!
Dear Leroy, I've been reading your blog since Day 1, and although I've wanted to write in so many times, for various reasons I never did. But I would be remiss if I let the opportunity pass to tell you how much reading your blog has helped me cope with my sister's two-year ordeal with cancer and her subsequent death this July. Because of you, I was able to "step up to the plate," the best I was able, in caring for her emotional and physical needs. You gave me strength and courage to face her disease, to talk with her about it, and tell her things I normally wouldn't say. Because of you, I challenged my fears of dealing with the uncertainty and sadness of it all, and I came out the better person. Not perfect, mind you, but it was a huge step out of my traditional "head in the sand" comfort zone -- the one I employed when my mother fell ill of the same cancer 15 years ago (she died two months after diagnosis). Until reading your blog, I've carried the guilt of my inadequacies in caring for her and beating myself up for never having the guts to talk to her while she was sick, to tell her things, or to even say goodbye. Thank you, Leroy, for helping me heal my soul and conscience, making me more brave (or at least not running for the hills!), for realizing (and accepting) my caregiver limitations yet pushing for more out of myself, and for making me a better person. For you to do this for a complete stranger while carrying your own burden of cancer is nothing short of -- I want to say heroic, but you'd probably blanch at that :) -- well, it's indescribable. Leroy, I wish you better days ahead and peace as you navigate this tumultuous time.
All my prayers and love to you, Leroy and Laurie.
Strength, hope, love, peace and many prayers from our house to yours...
Leroy,
You are in my thoughts. Stay strong willed and work your way back soon.
Dave
Even though today's post caused a sinking feeling, the little light of HOPE in my heart refuses to be extinguished! So, I will latch-on to it and continue to pray for God's grace, mercy and healing power to touch Leroy and Laurie.
We're with Leroy every day with our loving thoughts and our strength across the space betwen us.
Leroy:
God Bless you!
Dear Leroy, I was so worried yesterday but didn't say anything...that it might be a tumor on your spine pressing up against the nerves. I pray that whatever they find is minimal and whatever they do to you is noninvasive and maybe actually pleasant!
Leroy, I'm praying for you. I hope the Drs. find a way to ease your pain.
Dear Leroy,
You've pulled out of a crisis before and you will again. I am leaving this computer to get on my knees and pray for your comfort and your peace. And I'm sending a hug your way.
Love from Pat
Leroy,
We all appreciate being included in your news - even if it ain't so hot. I echo everyone who has written. I will keep you in my mind and next to my heart.
Blessings be to you and Laurie.
Maeve and NPR - thanks for keeping the light on for Leroy! This stream of life and love, conveys each of us beyond our isolation. As I begin a clinical trial and my 10th chemo drug today (in yet another hospital), I will drive, walk and climb for Leroy, our brother. Much love and support to Laurie and all of Leroy's beloveds.
Leroy
You have touched my life and I will continue to send you blessings each and every day. It seems so little go give at such a time....
Feel our prayers and love, Leroy. We care, we care. You have done so much for this community and they are behind you now hoping to give you all their strength to assist your needs.
Leroy and Laurie, May this be the hospital stay that produces good results and lasting pain relief. This is my great hope for you both.
Dear Leroy and Laurie, I carry you in my heart all day and all night, and offer up prayers that you will be wrapped in the love and grace of God. Love coming your way from Colorado, from your sister, Karen
Maeve,
Thank you for giving us news of Leroy. As you can tell from all the posts, we are a family here. We care so deeply about Leroy and Laurie, even though we've never met them in person. Please keep updating the news as you receive it. We are all holding our breaths!
Dear Leroy,
It was so disheartening to hear that you are back in the hospital and may need surgery. BUT you have endured too much pain! Maybe it's time (past time!) to run some tests and try to figure out just what is going on? I'm hanging onto hope -- and praying hard today.
Wow. Another blow for both of you. You are so kind to keep us in your lives. My husband had a debilitating stoke that comes with more "blows" as we go on to the next day. I think I understand a little of what you are going through and send you blessings of patience and fortitude - and some really great drugs. After reading your blog notes for some time I have come to like you very much. God love you, YOU make ME laugh sometimes. Such generosity you have.And I admire your openness. You are a huge addition to my day. Thank you, I send all best love and highest hopes for relief from your pain.
I'll be channeling all my positive thoughts your way today... all day. You'll get through this!
Two steps forward; three steps back. It's never easy, Leroy, but it is doable. Just sink into the love and healing that we send you. Don't worry about the blog or anything else. Just heal.
Katie
Sending healing thoughts and hoping the pain can be managed there at last for you, Leroy. Your strength has carried so many along this road. May some of that strength return to you today.
Leroy -
Hugs and love and prayers to you.
Oh dang it Leroy - I guess today isn't a better day. I hope the docs are able to figure it out and give you some relief. You are in my thoughts today.
Hey Leroy, We are missing you but you take care of yourself.
Peace
Leroy, I am wishing you the best and know I will hear from you again. I consider you a friend after all the uplifting you have given me from one cancer patient to another.
Love and prayers and a relief from constant pain from Upstate NY....
I hope the pain and weakness will get better. And you will be back home soon.
Leroy, nothing today seems quite as important as wishing & hoping your current crisis passes swiftly. You are not alone. We all wait with those who are passing those hours with you in the hospital. Hope to hear from you soon.
Hi Leroy and Laurie,
You both are in my thoughts. My sister is going through a similar stage. As long as this has gone on, still so many unknowns. Peace to you.
Linda
Long time lurker here. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Dear Leroy, your honesty and wisdom has been a strong post I lean on during wobbly moments. you REALLY are in hearts and thoughts, especially so right now as we send heartfelt thoughts for pain relief. Hoping to read many many more of your blogs. Donna, Ojai,CA
Leroy,
Sending you hope and courage and all our prayers. Thanks to Maeve for keeping us informed. We would be worried if Leroy failed to post.
Dear Leroy,
Just want to send my love and hope to you and Laurie.
love and peace
susan
california
Leroy, I can only echo what everyone else has said. You mean so much to us all and we want only the best for you and Laurie. There are many people who aren't getting much work done today and instead thinking and praying for you and your family. Thank you NPR for keeping us updated.
Leroy,
I can only add my hopes for an end to your pain and weakness and a much, much better tomorrow.
I'm joining in with all of the above in prayers and faith.
Dear Leroy,
What a bite! Glad your Drs. are taking action and not playing the waiting game. Asking God to send loads of healing and comfort your way.
That sucks that you are in the hospital. What a bummer. I will send up a really good prayer for you. I hope you get home REALLY QUICK. We miss your blogs!!!
Leroy and Laurie - there are no words, just prayers and a promise to keep loving and hoping - CaroleD
Leroy,
I add my name to the long list of your cyber friends and admirers who are sending healing thoughts your way. We wish you well, and hope your stay in the hospital is a short one. Be well, stay strong.
Karen K.
Leroy,
as always, you are in my thoughts and prayers. I wish away your pain.
If prayers count by quantity, I think you can see that we've got you covered.
Here's hoping the weakness can be corrected easily. You're in my thoughts and prayers today.
Leroy,
I am following your journey, frequently think of you and occasionally comment. My love to you; I will chant and pray for a wondrous outcome for you.
In Healing,
Deborah
You are definately in my prayers Leroy. I'm praying that the pain you are suffering will end. You have been an inspiration to my in your battle against cancer. Be strong Leroy, and as Jimmy V. said "Don't give up, don't ever give up".
Leroy - From all over the country, an intricate web of people who love you all join hands and hearts hoping for your comfort. You are not alone.
sending courage and sthrenght.... and HOPING for some darn strong painkillers...
stay strong...
francesca
I've been a reader for many months, but have not posted before now. My prayers are with you, Leroy, and your friends and family. Strength, courage, hope, love...
Leroy,
You are in my thoughts. Wishing you strength, healing and lots of love.
peace and grace be with you
I am just going to add my voice to the crowd by saying blessings to you Leroy. And thanks to NPR for keeping us informed.
Leroy, You are in my prayers.
me too - love and prayers, for Leroy, his extended fsmily, and his doctors and care givers in the hospital
Bravery
Clarity
Strenghen
Leroy,
I just wanted to let you know I am thinking about you.
My heart dropped when I read yesterday and today's message(s). It just plain stinks. I've been praying, and will continue to do so...
My journey through Lent will be thoughts and prayers for you for 40 days and 40 nights.
I am so sorry for your suffering and hope it lessens. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Maeve, Thank you for the report on Leroy. I'm very sad to hear that he is experiencing more problems and hopefully this hospitalization will get to the bottom of his difficulties.
To Leroy and Laurie, Just want to add my prayers to all the others and hope that answers will come soon. Gentle cyber-hugs enclosed!
To All, As we join in support of Leroy, Laurie and each other, we stand stronger. God Bless!
Eileen Pruyne
Charlotte, NC.
Dear Leroy,
Some people believe that visualization can work wonders. So today, I'm imagining this group of people, brought together by our concern, care, and affection toward you, holding each other and you in a huge mob of an embrace. You are so dear, and what we wouldn't give to make this go away, for you and for each other. At the end of the big hug, I will visualize us all going out for a nice glass of wine. Sigh.
Leroy you are an inspiration to those of us just starting down the cancer road. Please let us know if there's anything else we can do to support you beyond prayers and best wishes that are already coming your way in tidal waves.
Leroy,
Healing prayers and well wishes from my heart to yours. Be well and stay strong. Prayers and strength to you and your family. Get well soon!!
We hope that Leroy is doing ok and wanted to post a link to a new cancer patient resource: www.understandingcancer.tv
Hey Leroy, I reached this point recently so I'll just say this on your behalf "ENOUGH ALREADY!!!". I hope it turns around for you like it did for me.
Yes, as far as heart and soul-felt prayers are concerned, I agree, we pretty much have Leroy and Laurie covered. So, I am praying for Leroy's doctors. Hard.
Thoughts and prayers for you to get well soon and for strength to carry you thru this difficult time. I know you will pull thru.
Thanks for the update NPR, I worried when I did not see the "My Cancer" line. Dear Leroy and Laurie, we are all praying for your health, and your pain problems. If your pain could be lessened by our wishes it would be gone.
Hi Leroy-- you and your doctors are in my thoughts and prayers.
All our love.
Leroy, I am keeping you in my heart and sending you peace and love and a prayer, from Sherri in Texas
Just another member of your blog family sending positive thoughts your way...
Leroy, your strength, courage, humor, and candor as expressed through this blog are blessings to so many, myself included. I join with all the others in sending my hope for comfort, relief from your pain, and a better tomorrow.
You are a consistent part of my day. As soon as I get home from work I log on to read what insight you have to share. I miss you when you can't share your thoughts. I hope you get home soon with some relief! Take care.
My love and thoughts to both of you, Leroy and Laurie, during this time of unknown. I'm heading to an Ash Wednesday Prayer Service during which all of my prayers will be for you - that you may find strength and peace tonight and feel the love of all of us around you.
I will be on my knees praying for you, Leroy. Please don't give up Hope!!!!
Leroy, my lunch date, my prayers and energy are with you. Hope to read you at lunch very soon
Leroy, thank you for your daily inspiration in spite of what you are going through. My thoughts and prayers are with you. May God bless you abundantly.
Leroy and Laurie~The prayer warriors are "on board"~praying for pain relief and brighter tomorrows for you! Leroy, we all believe in you!!!
WOW! Have you ever seen such an outpouring of love and support? Leroy, you simply MUST get well. I shall check each day for updates and will celebrate with everyone else when you message us, yourself, again.
Leroy,
I am praying for you and, I am also going to try "the visualization thing".. All of us together praying, cajoling, trying to persuade the powers that be that Leroy must get well.
Leroy,
We need you back, stronger than ever. Rest up and know that so many people are thinking and praying for you. Imagine going through cancer without friends.
Thank you for updating us on the status of Leroy. So many of us look in on this blog as a daily ritual. Hopefully they can something for his pain, and find a way to get strength back to his legs. We already know his heart and his will are strong. Prayers to all.
Dear Leroy,
My heart dropped a little when I read that you were in the hospital since I check in on you every day and there you are...even when you have the really tough days. I am constantly amazed that you can do that since I had trouble keeping in touch with friends when things were hard. I admire you, your courage and your writing. Your positive outlook & sense of humor reeled me in when I was struggling and finding your blog was a blessing. I've never written to you before but you are in my thoughts every day and I pray that you will get some relief from the pain very soon. You deserve a break in a big way! Thanks again for sharing yourself with the world. Looking forward to reading you when you are feeling better.
Thank you for the update. Leroy, I'mm praying for you that you are free of pain.
I have been a fan since the Nightline Days. Back when Nightline was a real news show. I always looked forward to the Nightline e-mail and I recently signed up for this blog. I have followed your cancer on NPR for the last 22 months.
I was in radio for 22 years. Back in the days of smoking inside the jock room was always filled with thick smoke. I have seen several of my close friends go through cancer treatment. I wish there was an easier and better way. Someday maybe.
Leroy you were born with the gift of insight. Thank you for sharing it with us all these years. You have made my life better with your gift.
All the best to you as you deal with your latest struggles. Keep hope alive.
Stay strong, push forward, keeping you in my prayers for less pain.
Thinking of you Leroy and hoping for the best outcome possible.
My heart is breaking. You and all cancer patients and their families are in my thoughts and prayers today & always. This just isn't fair.
Maeve; thank you for telling us.
Leroy and Laurie; Like so many others who read your blog daily, I am also praying that your pain level is replaced with much comfort and peace. I laugh with you and I cry with you; I hurt with you and I fear with you...just wish I could be there to hold your hand and while and tell you a few funny jokes...Praying for better days for you...soon!
Leroy,
Wishing you comfort & strength.
Leroy,
So many folks are pulling for you.
Thinking strong thoughts for your family during this time.
Thank you NPR for having the compassion to keep us informed about Leroy's status. I wonder how many thousands of people Leroy has touched through this blog. I am know I am one. Leroy, I pray for hope, peace and relief from this unforgiving pain and discomfort.
Thanks for the update. We would all feel lost without knowing how Leroy is doing each day.
May you find peace, Leroy. Pain-free peace.
Thinking of you all day and hoping for good results!
Be strong. Our prayers are with you.
I offer this only hoping that it will help. My brother passed from renal cell cancer more than 10 years ago. He was in terrible pain and nothing would work. This is in way-upstate New York...where there are few services. I finally found a hypnotist who offered his services. He hypnotized my brother and set an image of a thermostat that could be used to "turn down the pain." It worked...but only for a day or so. When I called to ask why, the hypnotist said he wished he'd gotten to Pat sooner...that more use of the imagery would have helped.
If your pain persists, try hypnosis...but do it earlier rather than wait. It's not painful...and it may (I sincerely hope) help!
I wish you the best!
Dear Leroy and Laurie,
Just got back from a work "road trip" and had to check in on you. My heart goes out to both of you. I just wish there was more to do or to say, but please know we are with you in spirit and hope.
Just one more voice joining in from Virginia, sending all kinds of good hopeful healing energy to Leroy, and a thank you to NPR for updates, please keep them coming.
God Bless you both Leroy and Laurie. I, along with everyone else who reads this blog regularly, are praying for you and sending positive vibes your way. May your doctors find a way to make you pain free, strong and standing on your own two feet!
I too thank NPR for keeping us updated when Leroy is unable to.
Dear Leroy,
Ahh, sad news. I hope the hospitalization and doctors can help you. All our prayers here from Silver Spring, MD are with you and Laurie. Cats, dogs, 2 humans, praying and sending you healing thoughts.
Heartlight,
Kim B.
Dear Leroy...Thoughts are with you and Laurie...hope you are back on your own two feet very, very soon...hugs...Fondly...Ann Pat
Hang in there. Here's hoping that they find a solution to your pain.
Adding my voice to so many who are sending their prayers, wishes, love and support to Leroy and all those who live in cancer land. Blessings to all of you.
Leroy (and Laurie)
We hold you in our hearts.
Elena
Sending blessings for renewed comfort your way.
Dear friend:
What an outpouring of love! How moving to read so many posts, all so moving and beautifully written. You are the reason we all feel as we do about you. You have given us the gift of your writings and your strength. Deep in my heart I believe you can feel the love being sent to you by this community you have created.
Leroy,
I know I'm at the bottom of the list but please know you're in my thoughts and prayers. Hopefully you can get the help you need soon.
Laurie, I've been there, my prayers go out to you for the strength you've shown and will need in the future.
God bless. Kathy
Please add my voice to the chorus of people who care. I, too, hope this collective of thoughts and praryers provides a barrier for the pain.
Thank you for letting us know.
Dear Leroy,
I read daily and am with you all the way, along with everyone else here. Adding my prayers and wishes for things to improve quickly for you. Hugs to you and Laurie.
Dear Leroy and Laurie,
You are loved, cherished, appreciated by all of us.
Like other posters, I check your blog first thing every morning.
May all of our thoughts reach you both.
With much love,
Mary Sullivan
Charlottesville, VA
Leroy:
Standing at the end of this LONG line of well wishers, sending my prayers and good thoughts. May tomorrow be better.
Nikki
Just another regular reader who has gained so much from your writings and from the wise and insightful comments from so many here. I pray you are feeling better very soon.
What an amazing thing you have accomplished Leroy, 186 posts so far and I am sure that only represents a small percentage of your cyper frinds. You have touched so many people...you have a gift, and you are a gift.
Try to rest my friend.
Dear Leroy and Laurie,
Every day I think of you and send good thoughts for strength and healing. You have given so much to so many. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
R.S.
All I can say is Yuck. Hope you get outta there and home where you belong soon.
Dear Leroy ~
February 16, 2006, was your first essay on My Cancer and it was titled "Funny the Things You Think About." Eleven people commented.
May 6, 2007, was the airing of the TV documentary "Living with Cancer" with Ted Koppel. That program introduced you to many more people who had not "met" you before. The day after the program your May 7th essay was "Hawaii: It's Just a Vacation, Really!" 208 people commented.
Today is February 6, 2007 and Maeve wrote, "Leroy is in the hospital." At the time of this posting 186 comments have been entered. The day is not over yet. And there are so many others who are not making comments but who are regular readers and who are inspired every day by your words. What an amazing following you have!
Each day after reading your essay we wait eagerly for word from you the following weekday very much like the story of "One-Thousand and One Nights." But now you need to take time for yourself. We'll all be here when you get back. You know you and Laurie are being kept close in our thoughts and hearts.
Much love and grateful thanks for your continuing positive influence in our lives.
Leroy ???
I have been a faithful reader of your blog since about this time last February, when my dad was diagnosed with metastatic colorectal cancer. It was through one of your blog entries that I first learned about radiofrequency ablation, the procedure that the doctors ultimately used to destroy eight tumors in my dad???s liver. That entry gave me hope at a time when I needed it most, and since then your writing has remained a constant source of wisdom, guidance and insight. I hope that you feel now some of the same comfort that you have given to me and to so many others. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Karen A.
Leroy,
God Bless us all! Hope they can help the pain....Diane
Leroy-
You are in my thoughts and prayers. Wishing you comfort and relief from your pain.
Ellen
Leroy,
A little Buddhist prayer for you. May you enjoy happiness and the fruit of happiness, may you be free from suffering and the root of suffering, may you be filled with loving-kindness and joy and may you be at peace and at ease. Best to you and Laurie.
Thank you for keeping us posted. I check in each night when I get home from work. I shall continue to pray for Leroy and all those who are seriously ill, and all their loved ones.
A colleague of mine is currently sleeping in her husband's hospital room as he struggles with pancreatic cancer; I can imagine her fears, her fatigue as she stays by his side.
Laurie and Leroy, please know how much we all care.
Leroy, there are 202 posts above the "Send a Comment" form as I write mine. That is a lot of love, hope, thoughts, and prayers going out to you and up for you and please add mine to the rest. We are all joining you virtually along with those who stand by your hospital bed as you go through this. That is probably enough strength to levitate you right off that hospital bed if that were possible.
I pray that God will bless your body with the strength it needs and that God will bless the minds of your doctors with inspiration and skills and that their hands will be steady and perform the procedures you need. I also pray that the Spirit will provide comfort and strength for you and your family and friends there with you and I know that includes we who visit you virtually every Monday through Friday.
We are all thinking about you. So, Leroy, take your time, but hurry back to us.
Sincerely,
Bobbie in Texas
Leroy...
I'm picking up the vigil on the night shift. Maybe by now (it's 11:15pm in sf, wednesday) they've managed to "corral" your pain. Prayers, wishes, good thoughts, all of it...I send from the Bay Area And just look at what's grown up around you. You've pulled together a community of people whose lives are touched by cancer. You've given everyone here so much.
Love,
Rebecca
Thank you for keeping us posted. Leroy, I am really sorry you are having to go through all of this. You too Laurie. Prayers are with you.
TO BOTH LEROY AND LAURIE, AMONGST ALL THESE OTHER PEOPLE SURROUNDING YOU WITH LOVE, I AM HOLDING YOU CLOSE. I HAVE HAD MY OWN TRIALS WITH CANCER. I NOW HAVE CHRONIC PAIN FROM ANOTHER 'ADVENTURE.' I HATE PAIN!! AND SO NOW I'M HOPING YOUR PAIN IS SOON BANISHED. YOU ARE BELOVED. AND YOU ARE TELLIN' YOUR STORY DESPITE EVERYTHING THAT YOU'RE GOING THROUGH! PEACE. TILL TOMORROW. K. HALE
The Quakers hold the people they care for and worry about in the light.
So, you will be "held in the light" by so many of us.
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Leroy Sievers in the Ted Koppel Documentary
A Ted Koppel documentary focuses on his friend Leroy Sievers' "My Cancer" blog and the response it evokes.
About 'My Cancer'
My Cancer will be updated Monday through Friday with posts and commentaries from Leroy Sievers. A journalist for more than 25 years, Leroy has worked at CBS News and ABC News, where he was the executive producer at Nightline. You can follow his story through this blog, his weekly podcast and his monthly series on Morning Edition.
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