Laurie -

You are amazing. Your strength comes through in today's blog as well as Leroy's.
Please know all good thoughts are prayers are being offered for you and Leroy today.

Sent by Melissa T | 7:54 AM ET | 02-08-2008

What a hopeful, positive, and comprehensive update, Laurie! Thank you so much for taking the time- you must be exhausted!!
Everyone here will be keeping you both in our thoughts over the weekend and eagerly awaiting your Monday update. Try to chill and let others carry some of the caregiving load right now. Warm, gentle,peaceful hugs to you both from
CT

Sent by LSF | 7:57 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Thank you Laurie. Sending the two of you loving thoughts.

Sent by Harriet | 7:57 AM ET | 02-08-2008

What wonderful news. Praise the Lord......NO, NO, our Leroy would not wag the white flag for that demon...cancer.....he will fight, we all will fight, and support each other.
As always, prays and blessings for you both, and may the Grace of God be with you.
Wanda Amorose

Sent by Wanda Amorose | 7:58 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Thanks for the update. This is good news! Operative word is improving. Let's continue on that path. As always, sending positive thoughts your way! Take care, both of you.

Sent by Sandy Lathe | 7:59 AM ET | 02-08-2008

God is helping you guys through this, just keep allowing him to do so.

Sent by sarah | 8:02 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Excellent! Next stop...HOME!

Sent by Sue in Rochester, NY | 8:02 AM ET | 02-08-2008

I am praying that The Spark will ignite The Fire and lead to rapid healing, increased comfort and mobility, and restock the inner reserves of strength, faith and compassion that you both share. Willing you joy and comfort.

Sent by Stitches | 8:05 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie - it's not just his strength, it's yours too! Hang in there. And remember to take care of yourself when he is sleeping, you rest too.

Leroy (when you are up to reading the hundreds of supportive entries) you will see we never doubted your strength.

Rest.

With love,
Liz

Sent by Liz L. | 8:05 AM ET | 02-08-2008

I will pray for you both to have the continued strength to get thru this. Thank you for the update.

Sent by Deb from Michigan | 8:07 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Thank you Laurie for the update and I send love and prayers to the both of you.

Sent by Lori | 8:09 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Thank you for the update. Very glad he's using the button, but make sure he tells the nurses if the pain's changing or worsening.

Hugs and love across the miles.

Sent by Greta | 8:14 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Sending healing energy your way!!

Sent by Jenn | 8:16 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie, that is wonderful news! Thank you for the update. We not only pray for Leroy, but you are in our hearts and prayers as well... wishing you much peace, rest, and continued strength! As always, you, Leroy and your family are in our prayers!

Sent by Laurie Hirth | 8:18 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie, Thank you so much for taking the time to update those of us who read everyday and care about Leroy. I hope you are managing to get rest yourself, especially since it sounds like when he eventually is released, he will need lots of help at home. Though I have been in the role of patient not caregiver so much, I know how hard it was on my husband when I was going through the hardest medical things, you have my admiration.

Leroy's "spark of strength" comes through loud and clear in the virtual world and it is a relief to read he still is showing it in the real world. It is too bad, isn't it, that the cancer cells aren't rational enough to just give up on him?

You're both in my prayers.

Sent by N.R. | 8:20 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Thanks Laurie for keeping us posted. I'm so glad Leroy is resting and can build up some strength to go another round with his nasty opponnet. A caregivers role is exhausting, so you try to get some rest too.

Sent by Susan | 8:22 AM ET | 02-08-2008

GO Leroy! And go Laurie too! You both are amazing!

Sent by Robin L. Fairfax VA | 8:25 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Thank you for the post. While the news is cautiously very good, we know that there is much healing to be done. Leroy demonstrates the very best of the human condition, a spirit that just won't quit! That little light of Hope in my heart is glowing today as the darkness is being pushed back!

Blessings and prayers to you, Laurie, and Leroy.

Sent by Al Cato | 8:25 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie - I can tell by your words that you are a warrior too - and between the strength that you and Leroy have, I know you will prevail! Get some rest, and take care of you too - soon enough you'll have your hands full when you get him home.
Prayers and love to you both......

Sent by Ruth Chermok | 8:26 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie,
Thank you so much for taking the time to update all of us on Leroy's condition. He is so blessed to have you by his side! Just know that we are all thinking of you, praying for you, and holding you close in our hearts. Lets hope we see cancer raising that white flag very soon!

Karen K.

Sent by Karen K. | 8:26 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Dear Laurie,
Thank you for the updates and stay strong. Please give my healing thoughts and prayers to Leroy. I am so sorry that you are both having to go through all of this,

Lianne

Sent by Lianne Friedman | 8:27 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Dear Laurie and Leroy,

That's a great visualization: cancer cells waving a white flag of surrender! Absolutely. Now, let them march right out of Leroy's body, and transform into something healthy and light. Maybe all harmful things aspire to be good, and just need strong nudges and direction in how to be good. Somehow, from all the people struggling with disease, to the planet struggling with its dis-ease, I'm personally visualizing an image of transformation for everyone and everything into light, good, healthy states of being.

Heartlight,

Kim B.

Sent by Kim B. | 8:28 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Dear Laurie and Leroy, You two are an amazing team. Thank you for the update-so thrilled to read such encouraging news. I hope the weekend brings much continued recovery. Take care

Sent by Susie R. from OH | 8:29 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie,
You and Leroy have turned a disaster into into an opportunity by transforming a community of strangers into a caring cyper family.
Thoughts and prayers from your extended family.

Linda

Sent by linda | 8:29 AM ET | 02-08-2008

The updates are very welcome, thank you for using your time and energy to keep a lot of strangers informed during your time of great stress and worry.

Laurie, you are appreciated. The care givers are the real champions in one's recovery.

Peggy

Sent by Peggy | 8:30 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie, thanks so much for the update. Our thoughts and prayers are with you both. I am truly amazed at you both. You both show such strength. Give Leroy a big hug from us. I am sending you a big hug also. Try to get some rest.

Sent by dorothy in oregon | 8:30 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Thank you for the updates. I imagine these posts are the last thing on your mind when a loved one is in such a state. You must be an amazingly strong woman. I am keeping you and Leroy in my prayers. Peace and wellness.

Sent by Susan | 8:31 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie, thank you for taking the time to update us...glad to hear that Leroy is out of intensive care...he's one tough cookie!

Peace and love to you and Leroy...

Sent by Faun | 8:35 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Thank you so much for updating, and so early in the morning, too. Prayers and good thoughts are being sent for you both.

Sent by Kathy Galarneau | 8:35 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Dear Laurie,

Your message today is a ray of sunshine. WOW! After a long involved procedure, already out of ICU, WOW!

Your tone is as encouraging as Leroy's would be. The rally of the LA is phenomenal.

My best and prayers continue to flow to both you and Leroy.

Remember, TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF. He as nurses there for him. You must take care of yourself.

Sent by Sue Chap | 8:36 AM ET | 02-08-2008

The operative words are: "The pain is being managed now and he is much more comfortable." Surely this is the number one goal. Hope this can be maintained, even if it involves hospice and LOTS of drugs. We're with you Leroy and Laurie.

Sent by Wendy | 8:40 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Thank you Laurie. So good to hear from you about Leroy's progress. Hopefully, some relief from the intense pain he has been experiencing these past weeks will bring him some re-newed hope and optimism. I did not really think that the "Hospice" contact was good for him at that time. It kinda took the "wind out of his sails", especially with the pain he was dealing with. My hope for his continued good progress goes out to you both. It is so nice to feel that we are getting to know you also. Thank you for being there.

Sent by J C R | 8:46 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Leroy is one tough cookie. He's got a lot of fight in him, doesn't he? I'm impressed at his ability to stay strong and determined during all the pain and frustration of the last month or so.

I'm grateful that he's doing well. This was great to hear. Tell him to hang in there - he'll be home soon.

Sent by Karole Ives, Duluth MN | 8:48 AM ET | 02-08-2008

May God bless and keep you both in this time.

Tim Broussard

Sent by Tim Broussard | 8:51 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Oh how I wish it would "wave the white flag and surrender".
My thoughts and prayers are still with both of you daily.

Sent by Rhonda | 8:56 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Thanks so much for taking the time to post an update. Very relieved to hear that Leroy is out of ICU. You will both be in my prayers, as always. I am truly amazed by Leroy's courage and endurance.

Sent by Jen | 9:08 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Okay, Laurie, you are just the best person for updating Leroy's blog. To care that much about so many strangers (albeit very friendly supportive strangers)shows what a truly amazing person you are. We all appreciate it so much, and know that you will pass on to Leroy how we're all sending so much love, healing, caring and support his (and your) way.

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

Bless you both for your strength and courage. Thank you for updates; my prayers are with you as always.
With care,
Anne

Sent by anne lumberger | 9:18 AM ET | 02-08-2008

There are patients and their caregivers quietly battling this disease in every city in America. Thank you for sharing your journey - your strength shines through and helps to give hope to many in similar situations. Take care....

Sent by Linn Woodard | 9:21 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Dear Laurie and Leroy,
Great news! I pray for healing and strength for both of you. Thanks for taking time to update us.
Charlotte in Rural Ridge, PA

Sent by Charlotte Kewish | 9:23 AM ET | 02-08-2008

"The will to live is not a preference. It is a mysterious impulse toward life, which is hidden in the heart of all living things. Buried deep in the unconscious, it shapes our instinctive behaviors, influencing our conscious choices and even our physiology. The will to live is unconditional; it is larger than ourselves. We may find ways to collaborate with it, unblock it, and even strengthen it, but it is a force of nature, an intimate experience of the life force itself."
Leroy is the epitome of that will to live. Love and peace to you both from Sherri in Texas, BC dx 4-06

Sent by Sherri Eggleston | 9:25 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie,

Thank you so much for updating us! Please take good care of yourself as well - get some hot tea, maybe a big cookie, soft slippers, put your feet up and just be for a while....

Much love and prayers for you and Leroy.

Sent by Amy in NJ | 9:29 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Peace, healing and grace to you both.

Sent by Deborah of Asheville, NC | 9:33 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Sending you lots of prayers from Chicago. Hang in there. We are with you.

Sent by Beth | 9:45 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie,
Thanks for the update. I haven' written in awhile. I am always thinking about you guys and hoping things work out.
It seems like you have a little hope in your update. I pray that the white flag goes up for you guys.
Aurella

Sent by Aurella Rocchi | 9:49 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie, having been in the caregiver role in a similar sitution with my wife, I appreciate how difficult it is to keep everyone up to date. Thank you for supporting Leroy, whom we have all grown to love and for keeping us up to date. You and Leroy both need to feel the support from this group and use it to keep you strong.

Sent by Steve | 9:51 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie, Thank you so much for making time to write to us, sharing the details of Leroy's care and your own thoughts and observations. Leroy is so lucky to have such a wonderful partner in you.

Surely, you must be overwhelmed with the past several drawn out days. Take some time to rest, as I am sure that Leroy will soon be quite the handful for you when he is at home ;-)

Sending gentle healing hugs and thoughts to both of you.

Sent by Sheara | 9:55 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Keep on truckin' Leroy. We are thinking about you and hoping that you come out of this free of pain.

Sent by Crissy Trapani-Scott | 10:01 AM ET | 02-08-2008

I'm so glad Leroy is feeling much more comfortable after the long recent bout of pain. Thank you for letting us know, Laurie.

Sent by M Wms | 10:05 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie

I know you know this already, but remember the rules:

Eat.

Sleep.

Breathe.

I know how easy it is as caregiver to forget about yourself.

Sent by Bruce | 10:07 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Thinking of you, my mother, and all who have stood where you stand. Namaste.

Sent by Jennifer Handel | 10:08 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Thank you so much for the update! Hearing the news that Leroy seems to be improving and is feeling more comfortable is a wonderful way to start the day! All power to both of you!!! hugs and prayers from Seattle

Sent by Shosh | 10:15 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie,
We can't wait until you and Leroy wave the checkered flag in victory. Thank you for the update and we are sending much love and best wishes to you and Leroy.

Sent by Teresa in WV | 10:22 AM ET | 02-08-2008

That is encouraging news. He must be doing well to get into a regular room so fast. Leroy's spark will never be extinguished. Through this blog, he's shared the fire and warmth of hope with all of us. No white flags here! Stay strong, and remember to take care of your own needs, Laurie. While Leroy's napping, get out for a walk in the sunshine, a good meal with a friend, a massage -- whatever helps you relax. Nourish your own spark of strength.

Sent by Doris | 10:24 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Ooo, he's gonna be mad about those drains!

"Leroy Unplugged"...like a rockstar going back to his roots!

Hug him for me, Laurie (gently gently), and take one for yourself.

Peace
jj

Sent by Joan Jones | 10:27 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie - I breathed such a sigh of relief this morning, just to hear that Leroy's fighting spirit is so intact after all this - just totally inspirational. Hope you are able to find some moments of rest - not easy, I know. Best thoughts.

Sent by Leigh Hough | 10:27 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Thank you for the update.
I am taking a vacation, one that will include no internet access for a week. When I get back and catch up, I know I am going to read that Leroy is home and doing very well. I just know it.
Stay strong.

Sent by Brit | 10:35 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Leroy and Laurie,

Once again, he comes back. How amazing! I'll bet both of you are real TIRED of this stuff, on top of all the other emotions you may be feeling. I feel happy in my heart about the news today. Thank you for thinking of a bunch of people you've never met.

Sent by Diana Kitch | 10:36 AM ET | 02-08-2008

That 'spark of strength' goes by many names, but those like you and Leroy, who are able to call on it even when the challenges seem huge, will continue to fight cancer as survivors and supporters.

Sent by Barbara | 10:37 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie - make sure you take time to rest as well. We appreciate the time you take to update the blog.

Leroy - sorry to hear that you are back to three drains but they will get the icky stuff out so you can get well.

Know that you are both in our thoughts and prayers.

Sent by Marie | 10:42 AM ET | 02-08-2008

God Bless that spark of strength!!!!!

Sent by Karen | 10:46 AM ET | 02-08-2008

My thoughts of healing and peace to you Leroy.

Sent by Dave | 10:54 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Thank you for your kindness of sharing, Laurie. This has to be a very hard time for you. May a healing light shine over Leroy and you today and bring you strength.

Sent by Laurel M. Jones | 10:55 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Thank you for the update. Thoughts & prayers with you all.

Sent by Jen in NOLA | 10:58 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Keeping both of you in my thoughts and prayers.

Sent by Molly | 11:02 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie,

Thanks for keeping us up-to-date. It would have been a very long weekend without your report.
I'm looking forward to hearing Leroy complain about the drains.

Sent by Gene Koeneman | 11:18 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie - thank you for bringing your spark to this page and to our lives. You are living and writing in tandem with Leroy - this is your story too. I've just gone back to meet you, in the blog entry from July 17, 06...your words matter.

Blessings to you both for a tender time together.

Sent by Joan S. | 11:28 AM ET | 02-08-2008

Hey Laurie,

As a fellow caregiver, I want you to know that I'd like to have you in my corner. I like your attitude. Hang in there.

Sent by Debbie Carlson | 11:35 AM ET | 02-08-2008

No surrender!! Here's to life without drains or pain! All my best to you both.

Sent by Marcia | 12:02 PM ET | 02-08-2008

Your encouraging report made my day, Laurie! I can't wait till Leroy's back at home, complaining about boring TV!

Sent by Nancy from Canada | 12:06 PM ET | 02-08-2008

YEAH ... would love to see that white flag for you both. After you've stomped it through the mud, please pass it on.

Truly glad to hear Leroy's update, praying for lots more good news.

Sent by Donna | 12:15 PM ET | 02-08-2008

My thoughts and prayers are with both of you. Once again, he remains so positive, and that outlook must affect you.

Sent by Sue | 12:29 PM ET | 02-08-2008

ahh A good report today! I hope that with pain management you will be able to rest and then your body will have the strength it needs to heal.
Hang in there and we'll "see" you on Monday.

Sent by JULIE | 12:33 PM ET | 02-08-2008

Dear Leroy and Laurie,

God speed in your recovery Leroy and take good care of yourself Laurie. My thoughts and prayers are with you both.
In Peace,
Lynda

Sent by Lynda | 12:59 PM ET | 02-08-2008

Leroy and Laurie - You have so many people thinking of you and pulling for you. You both have far more than a spark of strength. Here are hopes that better, pain free days are ahead.

Sent by Art Ritter | 1:10 PM ET | 02-08-2008

Sherri in Texas - whose powerful words are you quoting? Thank you.

Sent by Joan S. | 1:17 PM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie, thank you for subbing for Leroy. It's not easy being a caregiver and so often the toll cancer takes on the bystanders is so overlooked.

Yeah, you would think that the cancer would just give it up after awhile, but its a stubborn cuss.

The trick is for Leory to be more stubborn than the cancer. And, it sounds like he is.

Both of you are in my prayers.

Sent by Joyce in FL | 1:22 PM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie,

Prayers and thoughts from Kansas. As one who has been where you are now, I know how important you are to Leroy. He deserves the best and I think he has it in you.

Nikki

Sent by Nikki | 1:25 PM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie & Leroy,

May all of us bloggers' loving thoughts be pulses in Leroy's energy of life.

Thanks for keeping us updated...

Sent by sheron - denver | 1:43 PM ET | 02-08-2008

Thanks Laurie for the good news. great news.

Sent by Claire | 1:55 PM ET | 02-08-2008

A fourth rule for caregivers (and all of us) is to remember to LAUGH!! Out loud. And a lot.
Thanks for the update, Laurie. Continued prayers for you both. I hope the drains do their work quickly so that Leroy will once again be totally "unplugged."

Sent by Laura | 2:00 PM ET | 02-08-2008

Dear Leroy and Laurie,

Prayers for continued healing for Leroy. He is a fighter, and has a wonderful partner in you. God Bless you both, and hang in there. You are loved.

Sent by Connie | 2:01 PM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie, How very hard it is to be the caregiver. We are all so grateful to you that you are there for him. Please try to allow yourself some regeneration time today. Thanks for keeping us all posted. So very happy to hear that his pain is being managed.WE all send you both our strength and love!

Sent by nancyGM | 2:27 PM ET | 02-08-2008

To Joan:
It comes from a chapter of a book on breast cancer that I read when I was in chemo. By Rachel Naomi Remen, M.D. who counsels cancer patients, and is a long-time sufferer of Crohn's disease. She has written 2 books you would love: "Kitchen Table Wisdom" and "My Grandfather's Blessings". Enjoy.

Sent by Sherri Eggleston | 2:42 PM ET | 02-08-2008

Oh, is he going to be unhappy with those drains! But hopefully much less pain. Healing prayers on the way, thanks for the update, Stay strong. :)

Sent by Jenene K | 2:44 PM ET | 02-08-2008

Thank you SO MUCH for taking the time to update us.

I'm guessing you and Leroy raised your head at the end of the day yesterday and said, "I think I'll try again tomorrow".

Spark of strength indeed!

Sent by Janice J, Los Angeles | 3:42 PM ET | 02-08-2008

As so many others have said already; "Thank you Laurie for the updates on Leroy's condition." As always you are both in my thoughts and prayers.

Sent by Valerie in Sacramento | 4:08 PM ET | 02-08-2008

I'm sure that this is so much harder on you, Laurie. Having been through a few big surgeries, it's reasonably easy for the patient. I'm in a room having chat-chat with a bunch of dedicated professionals and someone turns out my lights, a few seconds later I'm counting the tubes and looking for the PCA button. I see my wife and my first question is always "Why do you look so tired?"

For the patient the surgery only takes a few seconds, for the loved ones it's many hours of waiting and uncertainty.

jeff

Sent by Jeff | 4:08 PM ET | 02-08-2008

So happy to hear that things are moving in a forward direction for you. Thinking of you often!

Sent by Deb | 4:25 PM ET | 02-08-2008

After such a long day, Laurie, we so appreciate your taking a moment to update us on Leroy's condition. Tell him we're keeping the prayer line on overload.

Sent by Sharon | 4:54 PM ET | 02-08-2008

Just like Superman, God shows up and once again gives Leroy the strength to keep up that battle. God is definitely not ready for Leroy yet..and I feel a big purpose in Leroy's life is this blog page. He and you have been a source of encouragement for all of us either with cancer or have loved ones with living with cancer. May you both rest easy as the dust settles from this ordeal.. gosh I hate drains too, but good to let the yucky stuff out! Prayers and love.......

Sent by Jo Ann Baswell | 6:16 PM ET | 02-08-2008

There are heroes in unsuspected places..and you are both heroes...giving courage and strength to others.

Sent by Tara | 6:17 PM ET | 02-08-2008

Jeff

It's not harder for us caregivers, it's just hard in a different way.

If we didn't love you we wouldn't bother. And, to be completely realistic, as Nikki and Laurie H and I and others can tell you, sometimes you lose. But it's all worthwhile.

It's been almost a year for me, and not a day goes by that I don't think of the fun we had. And then I'm sad all over again because I can't imagine a more breathtaking ride on this roller coaster of life with anyone else. It was just a too-short ride.

I'd buy another ticket if I could.

Sent by Bruce | 6:49 PM ET | 02-08-2008

Dear Laurie,
Thahks for taking the time to give us an update. Our love and prayers are with both of you!

Sent by betsey in albany ny | 6:51 PM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie, It is a terrible disease and just never seems to give up!! I am so glad to hear he is doing well. I hope the weekend shows nothing but improvement. I am certain he already wants out. Be cautious here, his surgery was extensive, LONG RECOVERY is right! All the best to you. Stay strong, this will be uphill for awhile.
Please give him my best. Thoughts and Prayers... Stan

Sent by Stan Wozniak | 7:13 PM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie,
I think of Leroy every day but right now my thoughts are more with you. I have been there....Hang in there. Hundreds of us are with you. Thanks for remembering us also. Give Leroy gentle hugs and lots of "I love you"s.
Jane

Sent by Jane | 7:26 PM ET | 02-08-2008

You two are phenomenal! You are much needed examples for those of us who are also cancer survivors. We live with the big 'C' hanging over us day to day and it helps when others like you display such strength in spite of all that is thrown at you.

There are definitely days when I want to "Run Away, Run Away," as Leroy said in an earlier post. But, I have an "I'm Not Dead Yet..." (Also from SpamAlot) shirt I like to wear when I go to the Oncologist or other Docs. It definitely changes the atmosphere!

From one survivor to another... I appreciate you and support you in and through all you experience.

Thank you for your courage,

Bill Barker
Westminster, Colorado

Sent by Bill Barker | 7:33 PM ET | 02-08-2008

I just found this blog and I am so impressed with it. I send the best to your family and want you to know you've got a new group people in Charlotte, NC rooting for you!

Sent by Elaine Matthews | 7:44 PM ET | 02-08-2008

May you both have a good, healing, weekend. I will be thinking of you and hoping that you will have more encouraging news when you next get the chance to message all of us friends.
Love and the very best of wishes.

Sent by J C R | 8:03 PM ET | 02-08-2008

Laurie, Thank you so much for being so considerate to keep us informed regarding Leroy's condition. I am so glad he is getting some relief from his pain. I hope the doctors will figure out a better recipe for his pain management. I continue to keep you and Leroy in my thoughts and prayers.

Sent by Janie | 8:14 PM ET | 02-08-2008

Thinking of you both again today. Hang tough, you guys! We want you well soon, Leroy, so the four of us can make a return visit to Black's and eat copious amounts of delicious food and have a great time! We miss you. Laurie, you are an angel, but I am sure Leroy knows that best. Our love to you, Catherine and Chris

Sent by Catherine Bury | 10:17 PM ET | 02-08-2008

You are both in my thoughts and prayers/

Sent by nr in chicago | 10:57 PM ET | 02-08-2008

Go Leroy, Laurie and all the nurses and doctors who are helping. Even cancer can't keep an old assignment editor down! Prayers, cheers, wishes, energy & love from the Bay Area.

xoxo, Rebecca

Sent by Rebecca Corral | 12:21 AM ET | 02-09-2008

Dear Laurie and Leroy,

Laurie, I just want to add my thinks for the updates on Leroy's condition. I would gladly provide the white flag for the cancer cells to wave, if they would just ride on out of your lives. Please know that you and Leroy are surrounded by healing prayers from all of us here in cyber space.

To Leroy, I'm so glad that your pain is being managed to allow you to get some rest. I hope it will not be long before you are ready for a walk in the park with Laurie. The beauty of springtime will be waiting for you to enjoy. God Bless!!

Eileen Pruyne
Charlotte, NC

Sent by Eileen Pruyne | 2:08 AM ET | 02-09-2008

You are always in our prayers. While Leroy is receiving round the clock care you should take some time for yourself to get caught up on some much needed rest. Everyone will be watching over him w our thoughts & prayers but we worry about the caregiver strain too.

Sent by Cherie Brown | 4:34 AM ET | 02-09-2008

It is the battles we win that make the difference for all of us. So glad to hear you are improving. We too are ready to win a battle, our daughter's wedding is next Saturday & ALTHOUGH ONE ONCOLOGIST SAID MOVE UP THE WEDDING HE WILL NEVER MAKE IT, MY HUSBAND WILL BE WALKING OUR DAUGHTER DOWN THE AISLE. Stay strong & continue to win those battles one at a time. You both are in my thoughts & prayers everyday.

Sent by Kathy | 7:17 AM ET | 02-09-2008

Sending more heat to that spark for Leroy and for you also. Checking in daily to see how Leroy is doing. Prayers sent.

Sent by Rose | 8:44 AM ET | 02-09-2008

Laurie and Leroy,
You two are such wonderful role models about how never to let go of hope. Good things are ahead for you.

Love, Nann

Sent by Nann | 10:38 AM ET | 02-09-2008

Leroy and Laurie
I wish you both peace and hope, courage and dignity

Sent by Terry | 11:28 AM ET | 02-09-2008

Go Leroy! Go!

Sent by Tannis | 1:13 PM ET | 02-09-2008

Laurie - I literally know exactly what you are going through. The night of the TV show that brought your situation to countless people (who all thought they were alone in this) was kind of a surprise to me - I told my husband Paul, after watching the show - "I could be married to this guy". What I meant is that every event along this journey was almost exactly what Paul and I had already (or were about to) go through. While you are in the middle of it, all caught up in just trying to get by from day to day, you think that there is absolutely no one who knows exactly what you are going through (both of you). Additionally, I am about Leroy's age, so it seemed really unfair that we had to go through these things at such a young age. I'm still not sure of which life's lessons I was to learn from what we have been through - perhaps I will never know. What you need to know now is that you are giving a lot of people a great deal of inspiration. While it would be a lot easier to just give up, you remain beside your life's partner, fighting right along with him, and I admire you because it takes a lot of guts. For both of you I pray for courage, strength and serenity. I wish I could do more - you two definitely deserve it. Jeanette Carney

Sent by Jeanette Carney | 1:58 PM ET | 02-09-2008

Dear Laurie and Leroy,

Thanks so much for the update. And, I am so happy to get good news. Keep it coming, and we will keep our prayers and good thoughts coming in the other direction!

A restful weekekend is hoped for now.

Sent by Marcy in NJ | 2:42 PM ET | 02-09-2008

Blessings, friends....strength your way, every day.
Dick

Sent by Dick Lehman | 3:17 PM ET | 02-09-2008

Leroy I am praying for you and wishing you a quick recovery so that you are back home in your comfort. I know how important it is to be in "YOUR" place of comfort, noone wants to be at the hospital, so I pray for you every day for health and to be home really soon.

Laurie,
Thank you for keeping us posted during these difficult times, I can relate to you and what you are going through and for you to take the time to keep us posted is ALOT..a WHOLE LOT!!!! You, too, are in my thoughts and prayers.

Love,
Cristina

Sent by Cristina Gonzalez, Tampa, Florida | 8:23 PM ET | 02-09-2008

Sending my thoughts, prayers and healing energy to you, Leroy and your families.

Sent by Garnet | 10:41 PM ET | 02-09-2008

Laurie and Leroy-
I scanned all the posts this past week and have mentally sent my prayers and strength your way. I wish there was a pill for comfort, I wish there were a pill for patience, I wish there was a pill for grace. I hope you find a handfull of each of these, enough to get you through. Through to what, I don't know. Maybe tomorrow. Maybe acceptance. Sometimes that is all we can do. Peace to you. I'll pray for peace for you today.
Mo

Sent by Maureen McEachen | 1:18 AM ET | 02-10-2008

I know, I commented before. I feel compelled to write again. I wish I could package the knowlege that we don't get forever. I'd hand it to you and say 'read this over' and ask you to hold it. I'd say keep it close to your heart and look at your husband, look at yourself. Look again. Look today. Stay in the moment and say to yourself "this is all I have". Enjoy every blissful second, pray for more, but don't let hope drown the moment. Be there, and I know you are....along the way.
Love,
mo

Sent by Maureen McEachen | 1:33 AM ET | 02-10-2008

Hi Laurie,
I just googled an image of you and Leroy and saw the two of you in winter gear. You're both smiling and looking strong and capable despite the probably nasty temperature. He has his arm around you and you're both looking straight into the camera. I see strength and satisfaction in your faces. A sense of knowing your place in the world. May that strength serve you both well now during this unforeseen journey, this place you would never have chosen to explore. You're still the people in that photograph and you've got what it takes to get through this. I'm sure of it.

Carolyn

Sent by carolyn briggs | 10:53 AM ET | 02-10-2008

Something made me check in with Leroy after a long break. Now I know why.

Thanks for letting us know, Laurie.

Sent by Robin | 8:08 PM ET | 02-10-2008

laurie, you are so strong - as is leroy - my thoughts and prayers are with both of you. may g-d give you the strength that you need.
love, jan

Sent by janice goldberg white | 9:53 PM ET | 02-10-2008

I cannot believe what Leroy has been through! I was away from computers for a few days so was shocked to find out he had surgery again but relieved to read that so far, he seems to (again) be dealing well with it. I'm sure he is very disappointed to have drains again, but they are short-term. Thank you, Laurie, for keeping us updated.

Sent by Marcia Greer | 9:58 PM ET | 02-10-2008

I remember the LONG days my wife was in surgery back when she was first diagnosed with BC and they were hoping to "get it". Those are indeed tough days for loved ones. I sometimes start to refer to myself as a co-sufferer, but that's not really true. As much as I think I am suffering with her, she is still the only one feeling the pain and the fatigue. It just wears her down and I can see it and can't do a damn thing about it, and it frustrates me to no end.
I absolutely LOVE the line about the cancer waving the white flag. Thanks, I'll use it.
And thanks to Sherri in Texas for the referrals on the books. They sound well worth checking out.

Sent by TB in NC | 11:05 PM ET | 02-10-2008

Laurie,I had not read the blog in several days,so all this is new to me.Tell Leroy thousands are praying for Him.I am grateful his pain is being managed.Take care of "You" too!He has given more of himself to others than He may ever know.He's taken the sting out of facing our own mortality.He's given us moments of laughter in times of great distress.We all are better people for knowing Leroy.I look forward to His return here on this Blog.

Sent by Allecia | 11:39 PM ET | 02-10-2008

Dear Laurie & Leroy:

This comes from Bali - on the other side of the world, where I have followed the 'My Cancer' blog since its launch. I worry and fret over the health of a man I have never met. In the middle of an unconnected task, I pause and think of Leroy and go to a computer to check his current condition.

His illness and his courageous sharing of a deeply personal story has formed a community of concerned friends around the world.

Tell Leroy there's a floral offering for him in the altar of my Balinese garden, ensuring we've got all the spiritual bases covered among the many praying for his recovery.

Jack from Bali, Indonesia

Sent by John Daniels | 3:33 AM ET | 02-11-2008