Laurie, my heart breaks for you and what you must be going through. I can truly relate. Leroy is so lucky to have you in his life. Get yourself plenty of rest.
Thank you for your post today, as always, our prayers are with you and Leroy!
Have a God filled day!

Sent by Laurie Hirth | 8:32 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Oh Laurie,

This sounds like the road to Hana... very very scary. I am sorry Leroy and you have had such an overwhelming weekend. I am happy to hear that lucidity has returned. I can imagine the tone of voice when responding to the question, "What year is it."

I continue to hold you both in my prayers and thoughts.

Sent by Sue Chap | 8:35 AM ET | 02-11-2008

The journey of cancer ...one never knows where it will take us.....a continual battle. You give me so much strength in my own journey.You are a remarkable human being. My thoughts and prayers always include you. Stay focused to get yourself through this trying time. Bless you Pam

Sent by Pam | 8:37 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie,
Again, as a fellow caregiver, I can relate to that fear you just experienced when Leroy stopped being "Leroy" due to the delirium. In our case it was also due to the drugs, and as I waited for the outcome it made me realize how much that verbal connection meant to me. Yes, hearing the old sarcasm means a lot!

Sent by Debbie Carlson | 8:37 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Bless your heart. I have been checking the site off and on to check on you and Leory. Thank you for keeping us updated as I know you are drained as well.

Sent by sarah | 8:38 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie, thank you so much for taking your precious time and updating us. I know what you mean exactly; that fear goes right to your bones. You two have a long haul ahead of you; take care of yourself so you can take care of Leroy when he comes home...and give yourself permission to have a good old fashion cry while you're at it!! So much love and so many prayers are coming your way.

Sent by Karen | 8:44 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Wow. It speaks volumes about you, and about the commitment that you have to Leroy and to this blog community that after such a scary weekend, you've taken the time to let us all know about it. Thank you.
All of this suffering should count for something, but I can't think what. I'm glad that he's come back to you, and I pray that the pain is under control, and he's on the mend again. Wow.

Sent by Nancy K. Clark | 8:46 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Dear Laurie,

I can't imagine your fear as you watched Leroy experience this latest event and waited for the test results. You are both strong and have each other and that means a lot. My continued prayers and thoughts go out to you both.

I hope that today brings continued improvement to Leroy and a measure of peace to you both.

Sent by Erica | 8:46 AM ET | 02-11-2008

How frightening. Sending you strong juju and many prayers.
With care, Anne

Sent by anne lumberger | 8:47 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Hi,

I'm sorry you and Leroy are going through all this. How much pain and chronic discomfort can a person take? It was a poor weekend for me as well. Flu-like symptoms probably from the chemo. There's no comparison to what Leroy went through this weekend, but the question of how much and how long continues to echo through my mind.

Ed Steger
www.hncancer.blogspot.com

Sent by Ed Steger | 8:48 AM ET | 02-11-2008

I am so sorry that you and Leroy have been going through this nightmare. Praying for better days, clear thoughts and strong legs. God bless you both.

Sent by Jmoyer | 8:53 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie, I add my prayers for strength for you and healing for Leroy. Thank you for using prcious energy to let the extended family know how he is doing.

Sent by Lou Ann | 8:57 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie,

My heart goes out to you. Stay strong, get enough sleep and exercise and eat.

We are pulling for Leroy and you every hour.

Sent by Marie | 8:59 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie, I see Leroy continues to surprise the doctors with his spirit and determination.

Even so, I wish I could have been there for the both of you. Please know that you are both in my prayers each night and my thoughts each day.

Sent by Lesa in Kansas | 9:02 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie - I can't imagine being more frightened. The body is just a shell (a vitally important one, don't get me wrong), a place for the mind and heart to dwell. How devastating not to be able to see what makes Leroy, Leroy.

Courage to you (and Leroy too) in the coming days.

Sent by Robin L. Fairfax VA | 9:02 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Was thinking about you all weekend. Will continue sending prayers and healing thoughts to both of you....and to all of this community. Hang on!!

Sent by Sheara | 9:06 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Hi Laurie & Leroy,

Thanks for posting Laurie. Mary Chapin Carpenter has a song: "Somedays you're the windshield, somedays you're the bug." Must seem like too many days lately are being the "bug." Hang in there. It's got to be worse than awful. Scary, terrifying, exhausting. (Well, aren't I cheery this morning?!?) This is a day where I cannot find light or hope, but I can hold it out for you and Leroy. So, hold on, cry, yell, whatever will get you through. A lot of folks are out here with you, but hopefully there are a lot of folks right there with you and Leroy too.

Heartlight,

Kim B.

Sent by Kim B. | 9:08 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Whew! Thanks for the update. I checked over the weekend to see if there was any news of any sort; it sounds like you both endured a weekend of torturous mental, physical and emotional pain. We offer prayers for you and a big bundle of emotional support. I'll be glad when Leroy is able to be hugged again. It sounds like his rational response was a big enough hug though.

Sent by Eleanor | 9:08 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Thank you Laurie. It must so scary to see Leroy "just out of it" and you hope and pray that this is just temporary and thankfully it was!!

We keep vigil with you each day and send our thoughts and prayers to you both. God's grace, mercy and healing power will sustain you both.

Sent by Al Cato | 9:12 AM ET | 02-11-2008

hang in there...prayers

Sent by Jack | 9:16 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Dear Laurie,
My heart goes out to you both. My husband experienced delirium a couple of times with problems he had. It is very frightening and so wonderful when they come back.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Charlotte in Rural Ridge, PA

Sent by Charlotte Kewish | 9:16 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie,
You and Leroy were in my mind the whole weekend. I cannot tell you how wonderful it is that this weekend passed, albeit with tremendous, scary moments....and Leroy is back in fighting form.
You are certainly in the thoughts and prayers of so many who truly care....that would be us out here!! May the Grace of God be with you both, and his divine healing powers work through Leroy's Doctors.
Wanda Amorose

Sent by Wanda Amorose | 9:21 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie and Leroy,

I was a primary caregiver for about four years and I know how it feels to watch your loved one take the roller coaster while you must wait at the gate.

I am so relieved that you have returned to us, Leroy, because sometimes people don't. I'm so happy at your indignation when asked what year it was!

Hopefully, the ride is over for now.

Blessings

Sent by Diana Kitch | 9:23 AM ET | 02-11-2008

It is, indeed, very frightening to watch your loved one experience a drug delirium, I know. (I'd rather drive that road to Hana any day, Sue.) I'm sorry you had to go through that Laurie.

Here's to a great day today for both of you ... and prayers for those legs to regain their strength soon.

Sent by Dianne in Nevada | 9:27 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Continued prayers for you and Leroy. My heart goes out to both of you and to you especially Laurie as you watch Leroy go thru all of this. I personally know how hard this is for you!!!!

Sent by Deb from Michigan | 9:28 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie, thanks for updating us. Hope you are buoyed and encouraged by the volume of responses here on the blog!! peace and strength coming yr way to both of you. One day at a time...from sherri in Texas

Sent by Sherri Eggleston | 9:31 AM ET | 02-11-2008

I hope you can both take care of yourselves and each other. Prayers of strength and comfort are being sent your way.

Sent by Carolyn | 9:34 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Bless you Laurie. I can't imagine what both of you are going through.

Love and prayers.

Sent by Lori | 9:38 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Hang in there, Laurie and Leroy. I cannot add anything to what has already been said, so just put me down for "Me, too!"

Ruth
http://ruthsmusings.blogspot.com

Sent by Ruth from Virginia | 9:41 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Thank you Laurie for the heart-wrenching posting today. This weekend must have been almost more than you could bear.

These are lyrics from an artist from Norway called Bjoern Eidsvaag called Eg Ser (I see). (My translation, so please excuse me if the English isn't quite right)

I see that you are tired
but I cannot take these steps for you,
you must take them yourself
But I will walk with you
But I will walk with you

I see that you're in pain
but I cannot cry these tears for you
You must cry, yourself
But I will cry with you
But I will cry with you

Laurie and Leroy - we, your friends around the world (including me in New Jersey) are walking with you and crying with you. I know I speak for hundred when I say that we think of your progress throughout the day, hoping that this support network helps.

Hang in there big guy! Hang in there Laurie. Healing is a process.

Sent by Liz L. | 9:42 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Oh, you poor guys! Hope the doctors will know when it is time to leave Leroy's mind rest to allow it to heal from the onslaught they have given it. Enough is enough! He is a WHOLE being. Not a piece here and there which they tend to.
I have taken myself off all the medicines except BP meds. The after effects of a stroke last April are not getting any better, in fact, worse. So I decided to just skip a couple of the meds for a few days and my headiness & dizziness has left. Now, if some of my eyesight would improve, if I could only paint once again, distinguish colors - Maybe--
Laurie, how strong of you to be there by Leroy's side. He needs you to look after his interests and hold the doctor's feet to the fire. They tend to treat the patient very much like "a piece of meat on a Butchers scale", to quote a dear, old, friend of mine. They DO listen to someone close to the Patient whom they respect and is keeping watch over him.
You seem like a wonderful person and I am so glad Leroy has you!
Awaiting the next word - -

Sent by J C R | 9:45 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie, I am so sorry you had that scare. I wake each day and one of the first things I do is come to check and see how Leroy is doing, and you too, by extenstion. I hope the pain subsides and with it the torpor. Hugs to both of you

Sent by Alycia Keating | 9:55 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Dear Laurie,
I read this blog daily hoping for better news, holding my breath lately for Leroy, praying he will get better soon. I'm pretty sure he was in little or no pain, or at least won't remember it, while he was "out of it". You were the one feeling the worst during that time. Well at least all the negative results from those test eases your mind about other problems lurking. Try to look on the bright side of this awful time. I truely hope Leroy makes a swift recovery from now on. Thank you for keeping us informed, so many of us have you both in our thoughts. Take care of yourself too!!
Kandy

Sent by Kendra Falvey | 9:56 AM ET | 02-11-2008

People just don???t get it. When you go this journey with someone you love and
you witness the changes from a young independent happy strong brilliant person to one overwhelmed by disease you also become forever changed. There really is such a thing as post traumatic stress.

Sent by Irene | 9:57 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Thank you so much for updating the post and keeping us informed. Hang in there. We all care and are with you. And Leroy.

Sent by Nancy Oliveri | 9:59 AM ET | 02-11-2008

So many ways to get lost. Glad you've got him back. Thanks for the news. We think of you.

Sent by Ceese Stickles | 10:02 AM ET | 02-11-2008

What a scary time for you! Sending you hugs and warm wishes.

Sent by Diane | 10:07 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Keep on fighting Leroy! I will keep you in my prayers

Sent by Brian Dowd | 10:09 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Thanks for the update-----what a nightmare !!!!!! We are all pulling for ALL of you . xox dee

Sent by dee | 10:10 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Thank you Laurie for keeping us posted. Glad Leroy is back with us & can now concentrate on improving. Be sure to take care of yourself too -- this is not an easy road for you either & you don't get the drugs to help ease the pain. Know you are both in our thoughts & prayers!

Sent by Tom May | 10:17 AM ET | 02-11-2008

You're both in my thoughts and prayers. Scary stuff to lose someone to delirium (or lose yourself to delirium). Glad it was only a temporary hairpin turn (and I hope he is still getting pain meds that work despite that)!

Sent by N.R. | 10:22 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Thank you Laurie...sending love to you and Leroy...

Sent by Faun | 10:24 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie, If I remember correctly , Leroy once touched on the idea that sometimes going through cancer and all it entails is emotionally harder on the loved ones than on the patient. I think this weekend was a perfect example. He didn't know he what he was going through, while you, Laurie, had to be the one to stand and wait. I hope that your circle of friends is close by as you go through this ordeal with the one you Love. Let them carry you through this as you carry Leroy.

Leroy, you are not allowed to scare Laurie like that again.

With prayers and affection.

Sent by Theresa Lovin | 10:38 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Thanks so much for taking the time to update us, Laurie. Today I went for my final radiation treatment. The staff gave me Certificate of Merit and Appreciation which stated that I had "completed the prescribed course of radiation therapy with the highest degree of courage, determination and good nature." I hope Leroy gets his "certificate" soon, he has certainly earned it.

Sent by Dianne (DC) | 10:50 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie - sometimes it's very hard to be the observer - hope Leroy continues to to improve. Take care of yourself - love and healing thoughts to Leroy.
Mary

Sent by Mary Egan Dufault | 11:07 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie, I went through the EXACT same thing after my surgery. The doctors called it Post Psychotic Psychosis. It scared my husband too. I did not recognize anyone and had no idea where I was, I was totally paranoid. It took me a couple days to come out of it and a couple more to remember what I had experienced. When I did remember IT SCARED ME TO DEATH. Nothing like this had EVER happened to me before. It was drug induced. The pain was so severe after my surgery that they administered heavy duty drugs and had to keep waking me every couple hours around the clock and as a result the combination of all the pain meds and lack of sleep put me over the edge. They told me it was not an uncommon thing, even though it is terribly scarey. Thank God Leroy's back, my prayers are with you Laurie and Leroy. I hope sharing this experience has helped you at least a little.

Sent by Ruth White | 11:11 AM ET | 02-11-2008

To Laurie and Leroy, I want to add my prayers to all the others and gentle cyber-hugs are on the way to both of you.

Laurie, I know you are beyond exhaustion! Thank you so much for the update. I too, can relate to your esperience. Tom had an episode of delerium after his second heart surgery. He was determined to leave the hospital, IV and all. We could not keep him in bed and it was nighttime. He paced all night and eventually left the unit and pulled a fire alarm in the corridor. Six pieces of fire equipment showed up at the hospital. Thank heavens, they did not put that expense on our hospital bill!! Tom's delirium was caused by blood loss from post operative bleeding and once he was stabilized with transfusions, he was able to recover. But it was a terrible experience. So give yourself some time to recover from your experience this weekend and rest in the comfort of our prayers. God Bless!!

Eileen Pruyne
Charlotte, NC.

Sent by Eileen Pruyne | 11:13 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie, I can't even begin to imagine how very scary that must have been for you -- I just thank goodness, for the sake of you both, that Leroy's incredible strength of mind and will finally prevailed over the drugs. Prayers your way.

Sent by Victoria Ferreira | 11:13 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie,
I agree with Karen, have a good ole cry, and while your at it, have a lovely glass of wine, and if possible a good night's sleep.

Things will get better. They always do. It might not be what you want, but they do get better.

If you need someone to cry with, share a glass of wine, go for a walk, fix a meal, drive you to and from the hospital etc, there is not a person who reads this blog that wouldn't drop what they are doing and come to you and Leroy. Unfortunately we are all so far away.....
Since we can't do any of the above, we think good positive thoughts, pray for you both and write in the blog hoping this helps you as much as you help us.

Long distance hugs and kisses from us.

Sent by Kim from Columbia SC | 11:14 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Good morning, Laurie.
My mother's reaction to surgery and drugs was delirium. By the fourth day, my sister and I were terribly frightened to think that this was our new "mom". When we heard her tell her day nurse that she was very cute but looked like a schnauzer, then giggled, we knew she was on her way back to us. We laughed till we cried with the joy of having her back. I hope somewhere in Leroy's recovery you both can find some morsel of humor. Thank you for the update.

Sent by Sharon | 11:23 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Your weekend sounds like hell but the important part: "a lot of tests for bad things. They all came up negative."

Glad Leroy has returned and the strengthening can happen.

Sent by Julie | 11:35 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Thank God!

I visualize all of us (well, our spirits, anyway) gathered in a circle around you and Leroy in that hospital room, holding hands and sending out healing thoughts and/or prayers.May today be a much better day for you both.

Sent by Doris | 11:49 AM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie, I will add my voice to the chorus of people thanking you for updating the blog, particularly after your harrowing weekend. I hope that it is helpful and/or theraputic in some way for you to take up the reins in Leroy's absence. And know, of course, that just as we are all with him, we are also all with you.

Sent by Gretchen Hoag | 12:11 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Oh Laurie, I am proud of you for holding it together. I am so sorry you experienced that scare. What a heavy load you are both carrying. To Leroy, keep going big guy, you are the truest of champions.
Best wishes and love. Liz

Sent by liz | 12:16 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie, It's going to take awhile to emotionally absorb and process all that you've been thru this weekend, so I hope there are loving arms on standby for you. Thank you for posting for all of us. It's amazing you can even string two words together after what you've been thru, must less do it with such grace and clarity of words. No matter what happens, you and Leroy have a love and teamwork that most of us will never know. I envy you and am happy for you too.

Kate

Sent by Kate Fuehrer | 12:17 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Hang in there...blessings

Sent by luba | 12:18 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Really sorry that Leroy had to undergo a second back operation and that the weekend was so tough. My prayers are with you both.

Sent by Jen | 12:19 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Dear Laurie and Leroy,
I can add no words, only repeat those of Liz' post: I will walk with you, I will cry with you. Remember to breathe.

Sent by Kay from Pa | 12:28 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Bless your heart Laurie - Been there, done that, when someone you love just disappears into a nightmare in their head. Thank God he's back. Hopefully he doesn't remember too much about it.

Sent by Lisa | 12:28 PM ET | 02-11-2008

I have walked this walk with Leroy as we were both diagnosed at the same time. Leroy has given me courage and hope and I know that this too shall pass. This site is a shrine for me and I come here several times during the day for that strength that I need.

Sent by Aisha | 12:37 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie:
The delirium is very scary. Burge was living in 1942 and needed to "get out of bed so the wounded boys coming back from the front could have his". Since he was a history buff, especially WWII he made it sound so real that even the doctors had to admit they thought he was putting them on at times.

Hope Leroy stays on the mend. My prayers to you.

Nikki

Sent by Nikki | 12:39 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie, it sounds like the weekend from hell -- hopefully things will begin looking up. I echo Kim -- I sure wish there was a way we could do something for you. At least you know we are all thinking and praying for you both. Thank you for the update.

Sent by Kelly | 12:47 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie, thank you for letting us know what is happening and for seeing Leroy through these rough days. Even when he isn't lucid, at some deep level he knows comfort because of your presence and love. Hope you both have a better week this week.

Sent by Martha | 1:07 PM ET | 02-11-2008

The delerium must have been terribly frightening for you. You continue to be in my prayers.
With love,
Judith Newkirk

Sent by Judith Newkirk | 1:11 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Dear Laurie, thank you for posting these updates during a difficult time. Please take care of yourself too. Good to hear those tests returned negative!

Sent by Dorothy - Los Angeles | 1:15 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Once again I echo all of the above.

Sent by Marilyn Trujillo | 1:46 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Bless your heart, Laurie. My son was overdosed on morphin when he first came out of surgery. All the alarms went off in the NICU. I was a complete mess until they revived him.

My heart goes out to you and wish you and Leroy all the strength to go thru this phase.

Sent by grace | 1:48 PM ET | 02-11-2008

"This too shall pass"......

Hugs of strength and hope, hope, and more hope to both you and Leroy. May you both rest peacefully this evening.

Sent by Vivian in Delaware | 1:51 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie,
I do know a bit how you feel. When that happened to my Mom over 8 years ago her doctors seemed to have no idea why she was not herself. They came up with a reason for her behavior that I didn't believe and later they changed their tune and said it was some kind of psychotic episode from too many drugs. So glad that you have Leroy back with you. My thoughts are with you both.

Sent by S A | 2:02 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Eileen P - I don't know whether to laugh or cry at your story.

I think there is nothing that the readers of this blog haven't been through!

Sent by Liz L. | 2:29 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Hello
I have been reading this blog for over a year. I think it is amazing and has given me much support. I hope that you are also recieving support. Peace

Sent by Karen | 2:32 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie, thank you for taking the time and energy to keep us updated. You are so right when you say this is a "ride"...I have always referred to cancer-related care as a "roller coaster ride" myself. With all it's extremed ups and downs and unexpected turns, but somehow you still end up heads-up at the end! Please take care and know we all love you and Leroy!

Sent by Anne, RN | 2:35 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie,
I know exactly what you mean! I always said that my brilliant husband "lived inside his head". When his mental capacities were compromised, it was the worst symptom of all that cancer ever gave him.
I am so sorry you had to experience this, probably worse for you than Leroy. So glad he's back!

Take good care of yourself.

Sent by Marilyn | 2:48 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Dear Laurie, I read this one today holding my breath. I knew something awful had happened, just felt it. Thank God all is well as of right now.

Onward through the fog.

Sent by Joanne Wilkerson-Burke | 3:12 PM ET | 02-11-2008

It sux to read of this latest event!

Wishing you a speedy recovery from this.

Regards

Sent by Pika | 3:13 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Two strong, beautiful people surrounded by a strong, loving community.
Thanks be to you know who!
Peace with you all.

Sent by William Atsumi | 3:16 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Scary, but I'm glad it was just a lot of medication. It does happen; many cancer patients I know have gone through a similar episode.

Onward and upward.

Sent by Scott S. | 3:21 PM ET | 02-11-2008

What a nightmare for you. Let the healing go smoothly from now on. It's time for really good news.

I'm with you both.

Sent by Laurel M. Jones | 3:25 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie and Leroy,
How frightening and awful to live through. You must be exhausted and I only hope that both of you can get some much needed rest. Thoughts and prayers continue to come your way!

Sent by betsey in albany ny | 3:31 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Thank you many times, Laurie, for all you do including keeping us posted. I hope you have some time for your own recovery.

Sent by Katie | 4:03 PM ET | 02-11-2008

laurie: that is a true nightmare to deal with, and i'm happy that leroy is doing better now..

hang in there...

Sent by Krupali Tejura | 4:30 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Ride the wave Laurie. You know that Leroy is in the best possible setting, surrounded by dedicated doctors and nurses. Ride the wave. You cannot fight it otherwise than by being at his side, wherever his disease leads him.

It is frustrating to be helpless and it is frightening to witness the full blast of the disease, especially on what we feel is core to a person, his or her mind.

I hope that you are also surrounded by caring and loving friends, I hope you remember to eat and that you can find some sleep near Leroy. You will be there when he wakes up.

Sent by Fran | 4:32 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Hugs and prayers, Laurie and Leroy.

Sent by Amy in NJ | 4:39 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Physical changes are one thing but cognitive changes are so much scarier. My husband is very much like Leroy in many respects. When his "chemo brain" gets very bad I get so worried. Can't imagine what it would be like if he had a delirium. My heart goes out to you. My the good Lord give you both the strength that you need. Let's hope this week will be a much better one for him. My prayers are with you both.

Sent by Janet,NC | 4:50 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Dear Laurie,

What a frightening experience you had to endure, and having been on Leroy's side of this equation, I feel so much sadness for the ones who are left to "wait". You are the heroes of this fight, the loved ones who are the true "caregivers", and I want to commend you on showing us the level of love you feel for Leroy and for this blog. Thank you Laurie, for taking the time to keep us updated as you have, and know how much we truly appreciate knowing there is someone by his side during this ordeal. Knowing he is not alone is more calming than you know. Please give Leroy my thoughts and tell him to hang on, so he can write to us about it when he feels better. That day will come, Laurie, and you must hang on to that thought.

Love, Briana

Sent by Briana | 4:52 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie and Leroy,
After reading what you have been through this week-end, my heart goes out to you. With Leon, it was waking up one day and thinking he must have had a stroke--he couldn't talk plain, he couldn't walk, etc. That was 4 or 5 hours of the worst feeling---before the pain pills and Ambien CR wore off and I had him back with me, upset that we were at the hospital!! That was the first and last Ambien CR that he ever took. As long as he was with me in his mind, I stayed pretty tough.
Prayers and hugs,
Jane

Sent by Jane from AR | 5:36 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie,
I am so glad this particular ride is over with for both of you. I can't imagine how awful it was. When my husband was loaded with pain meds and steroids after brain surgery it was a little scary but when he gets depressed, which is rare, I welcome those steroid filled marathon talk sessions. I know how thrilled you must have been to get him back. God Bless you both.

Sent by Kathie | 6:23 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie, I can't imagine what it was like. Scary just does not seem to do it justice. I am so glad he has come back. In the next few days, I hope the ride levels out some, but it is a wild ride indeed!! Thanks for the update. Wish him well, and you take care too. Stan

Sent by Stan Wozniak | 6:36 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie & Leroy,
I am certain you are in the hearts and prayers of so many, like myself, who may not comment often, but read the blog every single day. I hope you can feel some of this love and strength coming your way.

Sent by Mary | 8:27 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Thank you laurie for the continued update. I continue to hold you both in my prayers and I ask for yours. I hope I do as well as this miserable disease continues to take its toll.
God bless you both.
Robert

Sent by Robert G Oehl, | 10:41 PM ET | 02-11-2008

my prayers and heart go out to you and leroy - i am so sorry for your fear - you are so strong. be well and be strong
love, janice

Sent by janice goldberg white | 11:05 PM ET | 02-11-2008

You and Leroy have taught us so much about living. Your story has become a reality for me as I cope with a very dear friends illness. Because you have shared so much, I understand the road that we will travel and I am better prepared. Thank you both.

Sent by linda | 11:08 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Laurie,
My prayers are with you... may your family and friends stay by your side through all of this. Strength and love will prevail.

Sent by teri | 11:55 PM ET | 02-11-2008

Thank you for the update, There are so many of us who follow this blog daily, sending encouragement and gratitude to Leroy and yourself. May the journey be less rocky in the coming days!!! Bless you Lynda

Sent by Lynda Spangler | 12:40 AM ET | 02-12-2008

Thank you for keeping us posted on Leroy's progress we appreciate you for being there so near. We are with him in spirit and our prayers are deep. May the good Lord bless him and give him a painless recovery. Being an oncology nurse and close to my patients I know how scary this was and still is.
One could only imagine that those cancer cells would start retreating and surrender to the powerful SuperLeroy.
god bless and our prayers are with Leroy and also yourself. Lourdes

Sent by Lourdes MendezRodriguez RN | 12:51 AM ET | 02-12-2008

Laurie & Leroy,
My wife and I were involved in a similar battle two years ago. While in that drug-induced fog it meant so much to hear her say that she loved me even though I couldn???t respond. As I started to recover the thought of what I was putting her through hurt more than the two surgeries and the bad infection. I???m sure Leroy will feel the same if you don???t take care of yourself. I wish you both the continued strength to fight this nasty enemy.

Sent by Walt from LA | 3:52 AM ET | 02-12-2008

Laurie,
Thanks for your update. What a scary weekend - glad to hear Leroy is back. I check every day to learn how Leroy is doing and what he has to say. My thoughts and prayers are with you both. Can't imagine 9 hours of surgery after 8 hours not that long ago on Leroy's back. Cancer is so frightening.

Sent by Maureen | 8:47 AM ET | 02-12-2008