Laurie, Pierse, and Dr. Meyer, Simply, thank you so much for your wonderful comments!

Sent by Susie R. from Ohio | 8:56 AM ET | 08-26-2008

To hear from Dr. Meyer yesterday and Ms. Brynes today has been really an interesting perspective shift- and uplifting too. I spent yesterday driving my mother a long way to, and waiting to see, one of the two doctors in the only orthopedic oncology office in the state of Virginia. My mother needs more tests and awaits a diagnosis.....

Yesterday we were a bit frustrated at the long wait beyond our appointment time. But, when we met the nurse, she was able to explain and engage with us, and the doctor not only was (of course) expert at what he was there to do, but took the time to sit and chat with us about people he knows at my workplace (a college). He told us a good, amusing story... All the HUMANITY there was maybe as important as the science.

Sent by Barbara K | 8:57 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Laurie...

I returned from vacation (which meant "time out" from Leroy's cancer blog as well) only to learn of his passing on the day I left town...I am so very sorry. I know how difficult your path now will be, as I too became a widow in my 50's. Journaling helps get through one's grief and confusion...I hope that you will continue to "blog", both for yourself and for others. May your fond memories of your lives "before cancer" come to the forefront and sustain you! I will be checking in regularly...

Sent by Retha | 9:07 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Pierse: People like you -- so full of life and humor -- make such a huge difference! How lucky Leroy and Laurie were to have you on their team...

Sent by Brenda in Texas | 9:15 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Dear Pierse,
In my world, your name is Carol. With tears of gratitude in my eyes, all I can say is THANK YOU for doing what you do and for being you. Even though after all these years I still cannot stand needles and will probably never get used to them, you make the experience as quick and painless as possible. A small thing in the grand scheme, but a big deal to me.

Dear Laurie,
Thank you for the opportunity to thank our nurses. I am sure that they do not get enough of the recognition that they deserve. (BTW, still lifting!!)

Sent by Judie in CT | 9:29 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Dear Laurie, I open my e-mail every day at about 9am to look if you have written something. I know this is very hard to do but please keep the blog going. It keeps me going. And thank you for sharing the medical staff's stories. These are truly the people that make all the difference. My Mom's oncology team and their nurses were incredible as well.

Thank you so much for sharing your most private moments with us.

Sent by Cory Holz | 9:34 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Hello Pierse,

What a friend you were to Leroy and Laurie! I'm so glad you love your work because it spills over to the people you work with. As a hospice nurse, I always looked forward to hearing the patients' stories as well as those of the family members. I found that asking where they were from and where they grew up opened the door to lives that were amazing and varied. It seemed to be a most satisfying experience for them as well as for me.

Keep up the good and important work. And good luck in the next pool. Perhaps Leroy's three minute approach will make you the winner next time!

Linda Mc

Sent by Linda Mc | 9:36 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Cancer world is filled with AMAZING people.. obviously Pierse in one of them!!

Cancer world is full of deeply compassionate and passionate people

It is also so good to read positive stories which come out of a horrible situation.... we do indeed share so very positive moments in cancer world as well as the horrible ones!

Sent by Ron Bye (NH) | 9:39 AM ET | 08-26-2008

I was amused by the story and while reading it came to relize - our day-to-day life is moving on.

Sent by Carolyn | 9:39 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Thank you, Laurie, for having these wonderful people share a bit of themselves, as well as a bit of Leroy, with us.

Sent by Kristi in GA | 9:42 AM ET | 08-26-2008

A very moving post today........once again tears, lots of tears. My husband also has a wonderful chemo nurse. They are very special people........

Sent by sasha | 9:43 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Truly the Dream Team, playbook filled with love, comfort and hopefully, miracles.... Pierse, how many coins was that? pennies too I bet. Blessed are your patients with your humanity, love and humor. Laurie, thank you for taking time to continue to give, to solicite these amazing sharings... 1 2 3 lifting again and again.

Sent by Stitches | 9:45 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Wow! I, too, have spent time in the "chemo" room with my dad. To have a Pierse is truly a gift from above. I would like to say a GREAT BIG THANK YOU to her & the nurses at Siteman Cancer Center in St. Louis - who also took an incredibly frightening & sad experience for me & my family & made it so much more. We will never forget them for this. I don't know what we would have done without their kindness, laughter & love. These people are truly god's gift to humanity. Thanks for sharing Laurie & hang in there.

Sent by sara | 9:50 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Good Morning Pierse and Laurie,

I have been an oncology nurse and it was hard for me to take care of some of the best patients in the world. I was in my late 20's to mid 30's and maybe I was not old enough at that point. It was so hard especially if the patient was close to my own age. I found to start their lines was the hardest. I really did love those patients though. And always had a favorite.

One of the traditions I started was to give out candy canes between Thanksgiving and Christmas and buy the best tasting lollipops I could find for those getting chemo.

Thanks. :)

Sent by Sue Chap | 9:51 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Dear Laurie,
From both sides of the stethoscope, I've appreciated the gifts of oncology nurses. You might enjoy this "Note to My Nurse:
http://www.oncology-times.com/pt/pt-core/template-journal/oncotimes/media/WendyHarpham-Nurse-OT-Feb252007.pdf

Hold tight the good memories. With hope,
Wendy

Sent by Wendy S. Harpham, MD | 9:51 AM ET | 08-26-2008

The only words that come to me today are thank you. Thank you so much to the both of you fine ladies for today's post.

Sent by JSM | 9:55 AM ET | 08-26-2008

We had Pete and Martha - doctor and nurse and they were wonderful!!!! My husband loved them both and I have kept up a relationship with them. I truely do not know how I would have done without the two of them. Another AWESOME posting today.

Sent by Deb from Michigan | 10:00 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Pierse,
I probably should own stock in Kleenex at this point. Yesterday and today's posts brought the tears rolling. It was 15 years ago to this date that I got my cancer diagnosis and I can still remember exactly what happened. The doc and a nurse started to walk into the dressing area where I was waiting and the doc started to close the door. I knew then and there that the news was not going to be good.

Although it's been years now since chemo, I still have fond remembrances of the chemo nurses. I also chuckle when I remember their patience with me after my IV poked through my vein and started infiltrating my hand because I had borrowed my son's Game Boy to pass the time while I was "hooked up..."

So thank you Pierse, and also Laurie, for being willing to keep sharing yet another leg on this journey with us.
Take good care,

Sent by betsey in albany ny | 10:02 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Thanks Pierse, and thanks Laurie!! You gave me a smile this morning. I hope you get a smile from us back at you Laurie! Love, Linda

Sent by Linda Lee | 10:12 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Oh Pierse, how I loved your thoughts today! As an oncology social worker, I LOVE my job too! When family or friends mention what a depressing job it is, I try to explain that it is incredibly rewarding. I get paid to talk and laugh and joke with patients and their families, and often hold a hand or wipe a brow and cry with the same people further down the road. My patients and families are incredible people on a difficult journey. If by chance I can ease some of their pain, what a gift that is to me. Thank you for all you do, Pierse, and Dr. Meyer. And thank you, Laurie, for giving them the opportunity to share their feelings about Leroy and about all of you in cancerworld that we care for every day.

Sent by Karen in Upstate NY | 10:13 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Laurie,
I wear my "Cancer Sucks" t-shirt and sweatshirt all the time. I always get compliments on them. You are right, it does say it all.

Sent by Wende | 10:17 AM ET | 08-26-2008

I have a chemo hat that says "Fuck cancer," but I haven't worn it much yet because it's pretty warm, and it's still summer. I do get lots of compliments when I have it on, though - even from moms who I worry wouldn't like their kids seeing the F-word on other people's clothes. :) Hoping you're hanging in there, Laurie and friends and family.

Sent by Emilie | 10:19 AM ET | 08-26-2008

I cannot agree more with Pierse!
The passed has gone to a good place, with regained freedom and good health. The sadness only belongs to the living.
Laurie, free yourself, look forward, learn to laugh and enjoy life again, knowing that Lorey is in a good place now, no more cancer, no more chemo.

Sent by Dingdang | 10:21 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Good morning Pierse,
Let me give you the perfect example of why you, and those with your dedication, are so special. My father, John, died of cancer in 1960 when I was sixteen. I can to this day remember the nurse who took care of him while he was in the hospital recovering from radical surgery. Her name was Myrtle Spering. He looked forward to the days she was on duty because of her knowlege, strength, her warmth, and the love she demonstrated for her job. That's a long time ago, Pierse, and the impact she made on my family still survives. As will the care and caring you give to your patients each day. Bless you.

Sent by Sharon | 10:25 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Two big "THUMBS UP" to Ms. Byrnes and to all who work in cancer world....you guys are unnamed heros.

Sent by Teresa in WV | 10:26 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Laurie, it really IS a privilege for those of us in medicine to care for our patients and their families. Anyone in this business for other reasons is--IMHO--LOST! We get tremendous safisfaction from the trust you place in us, as well as the sharing of your lives, your health, and your privacy with your caregivers. I have never NOT cried with a family who's lost a loved one, and believe me.....I've lost many. As sad as it is to be a witness to a family's pain, it also gives a great sense of honor to feel that you might have helped, somehow.

Hang in there. You are very strong. Your life will go on--differently without Leroy--but he will always be part of you.

Sent by Dr. Nancy Glass | 10:29 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Hi Laurie,

It is great that you are continuing Leroy's blog. I myself lost my mom almost 3 months ago at the age of 54. By following along with you I understand maybe a little more of what my dad is going through. I knows your loss is more recent, but he still has troubles talking to me on the phone about mom...

Thank you,
Nicholas Zeitler

Sent by Nicholas Zeitler | 10:30 AM ET | 08-26-2008

My wife and I looked on the oncology nurses as angels.

My head nurse, Hillary, was a HUGE Steelers fan and me being an Eagles fan, we had many spirited Monday morning discussions while I was getting chemo back in 2002. Alas, our dreams for an all-Pennsylvania Super Bowl were cruelly dashed!

Sent by Art Ritter | 10:42 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Laurie, thanks so much for blogging with us. I've enjoyed learning more about Leroy's doctors and nurses. My doctors and nurses were also fantabulous and helped keep me going when I wasn't sure I could make it.

Sent by Dianne (DC) | 10:48 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Pierse, could you be any more awesome? I don't think so. Chemo sucks indeed, but Leroy sure was lucky to have you around.

Laurie, thank you. We all love you and are continuing to lift you in our thoughts every day.

Sent by Kelly in Maryland | 10:52 AM ET | 08-26-2008

For me, Pierse's name was Beth. While I can't say that I EVER looked forward to chemo, Beth at UNC made my time there bearable. She made me smile and laugh when I was mostly pretty scared. I do think chemo nurses are just a special kind of people - we in cancer world are very grateful for them.

Sent by Gretchen Hoag | 11:02 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Laurie (and friends),

You may have received this quote already, but just in case you haven't, here goes:
And can it be, that in a world so full and busy, the loss of one creature makes a void in any heart, so wide and deep that nothing but the width and depth of eternity can fill it up!
(Charles Dickens)

We really can't fill the void that Leroy left, but we are honored to stand with you in it.

Sent by Julie | 11:03 AM ET | 08-26-2008

A few years back, in a sick twist of fate my father was recovering from a routine surgery. He was given a private room - and as there are a limited number in our local hospital - it turned out to be the same room where my mother died! (!!!) My drugged up Dad didn't mind "sharing" the room.

I was a mess, of course, but one thing kept me from losing my mind: THE NURSES (several of them) remembered my Mom. It was several years since after she died, but they talked about her beautiful eyes and what she was like.

They were lovely, strong women who took care of all kinds of patients in all kinds of situations. I am eternally grateful for anyone who chooses such an important profession.

Thank you for your words, Pierse!

Sent by Liz L. | 11:11 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Laurie, thank you so much for continuing Leroy's blog. It has been part of every day for me over the last two years. The theme you are conveying gives even greater dimension to the blog. I hope it lives on in Leroy's memory.

Sent by John McCrillis | 11:13 AM ET | 08-26-2008

I always said my chemo nurse, Jennifer Dunphy, was an angel. Sounds like she wasn't the only one.

Sent by Leslie C | 11:21 AM ET | 08-26-2008

You know, I often wondered how those nurses deal with the chemo and cancer day in and day out. My chemo nurse is Deanna. I am thankful I haven't had to see her (professionally) in 3 years. I appreciate the insight from a nurses prospective.

You guys are really the angels. Thanks for sharing the stories and insight.

Sent by Alexis Redmond | 11:27 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Beatifully stated Pierce.

Sent by Lisa | 11:27 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Thank you, Laurie... We all love you....

Sent by Patsy Elmore from Knoxville, TN | 11:30 AM ET | 08-26-2008

I loved reading your words today, Pierse. I, too, am grateful to the doctors and nurses at Siteman Cancer Centre in St. Louis for all the wonderful care that David has had - and is still getting. Tomorrow we go there as he is having problems again with his eye and we are afraid that the tumour is back. Please God that it isn't. He just isn't feeling well and I am so scared again.

Where can I get a "Cancer Sucks" tee-shirt? I haven't seen one.

Sent by Tina from Alton, IL | 11:31 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Angels in disguise do, indeed, walk amongst us, and today's - and yesterday's - postings are sure signs of that ...

Wishing you much love and peace today, Laurie ~ Thank you for your continued invitation to walk the path together.

Always,

Kim Forester

Sent by Kim Forester | 11:33 AM ET | 08-26-2008

Hello Pierse and Dr. Meyer,

What you do is so special, I hope that doesn't sound like a cliche. Ireally believe this, so thsnk you for sharing your thoughts with all of us.

Laurie, we are still here for you, and will continue so to be.

Charles

Sent by Charles Willingham | 11:41 AM ET | 08-26-2008

This is exactly how I felt about my doctor and team of nurses when I was going through chemo. We always had so many laughs. It made things so much easier.

Sent by Sue Sheehan | 11:44 AM ET | 08-26-2008

To the webmaster - thanks for all of your hard work to keep this blog going. Please update the About section on the website - reading this hurts:
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.

Sent by Teresa | 12:02 PM ET | 08-26-2008

What a terrific blog today from Laurie and Pierse. To Pierse and all of the chemo nurses, I salute you and am thankful that you are there to make it bearable.

Blessings and prayers to Laurie, Pierse and families and friends.

Sent by Al Cato | 12:02 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Hip Hip Hooray for the caregivers!

Thanks, Laurie, for highlighting these special people.

Sent by LindaK | 12:03 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Dearest Laurie and All,

I am also thrilled that you are continuing the blog, thank you for your strength and your dedication to Leroy's memory! You are so right, Cancer Sucks, Big Time!!

Your blogs of yesterdy and today are wonderful tributes to the medical teams that staff our chemo rooms. We would be totally lost without them! I too, am fortunate to have a wonderful chemo nurse, Linda Short. We have discussed everything under the sun and come to know each other's families as well. In talking with Linda I found that she actually worked for a period of 8 years at the hospital where I took my nurse's training and had worked for 22 years prior to my move to Charlotte. We even knew some of the same staff members at the hospital. As I think back to those days when I was a pediatric nurse, the faces of the children in my care, who had cancer, come flooding back to me. I remember holding their hands as they left this life and crying with the family members and with the doctors as well. My hat is off to all the medical teams who work full time in oncology. It takes very special people to do so!

Laurie, your comment about the sports pool brings a smile through the tears. Tom won a Super Bowl Pool on year and he was payed off with a plastic bag from a local store filled with 500 one dollar bills. I took the winnings to the bank in the same bag but people in line behind me got a little restless as the teller had to count out those 500 one dollar bills!

To All, As we look back with Laurie on Leroy's life it brings so many of our own memories into focus. And the bonds of this community grow deeper. And thanks to Leroy and Laurie, we truely know that we are not alone! God Bless!

Eileen Pruyne
Charlotte, NC

Sent by Eileen Pruyne | 12:07 PM ET | 08-26-2008

A big thank to my doctors, nurses and staff at the City of Hope in Duarte, California. Cancer sucks, but all of those in cancer world rock. They make the unendurable endurable.

Sent by Susan C | 12:12 PM ET | 08-26-2008

The first time we met my oncologist, as my husband went to shake hands with him, they did an awkward split hand thing and Dr K said "I guess we can do a Vulcan salute!"and tried to do one. Inside my fear, I recognized someone who would care about me and not just for me. I reminded him of this story recently and thanked him for his sharing of himself with me, that I was not just a middle aged woman with breast cancer but me...Glenda...new grandmother, wife, mother, daughter and fellow parent of smart kids. He said he had recently attended a forum where about half the doctors said they needed to maintain an emotional distance and the other half saying they needed to connect to their patients. I can't imagine going through this ordeal with doctors who were emotionally distant. I am grateful to say that I, like Leroy and so many of us here on the blog, have amazing, caring, warm 'real' people caring for me all the way from the radiologist who called me into his office to say there was something on my mammogram to the staff who took a kind interest in me when I was hospitalized to the lab people who looked for veins that were MIA. All of them cared about ME, sharing little parts of themselves, connecting with me with kindness and humor...and references to sci-fi. I cannot thank them enough. Or this blog where I talked for the first time about brain cancer and bone cancer and my fears of leaving my grandson before he knew me. I am grateful indeed.

Sent by glenda | 12:21 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Laurie, I have a wonderful Chemo Nurse too, her name is Cookie. She too seems to love her job. She is willing to talk about almost anything. Have not gotten to the Football Pool yet. Taking some of the Doctor's back sounds like fun! The Nurses help in small and large ways depending on the day. We all know all of this sucks! The losses outweigh the gains, and eventually, well you know. Thanks Laurie, this helps so much. Stan

Sent by Stan Wozniak | 12:22 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Pierse, I agree with you completely. Leroy is pain-free, stress-free and we will all meet up with him one day. Laurie - Until that day, hang on to those wonderful memories and know we will lift you up any time you're feeling down. 1-2-3

Sent by Jeanne Stevens | 12:26 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Hi Pierse,
I'm glad Leroy had you for his nurse. You sound like such a wise and caring person -- and someone with a sense of humor to match Leroy's!During 17 months of chemo and intravenous Herceptin, I was given infusions by many different oncology nurses. They all cared and tried to do a good job, but many seemed (understandably) determined to stay detached emotionally from their patients. A few stood out, however: Delilah and Mary Fran (and also the lone male nurse, whose name escapes me due to "chemo brain" no doubt!) I felt I was seen by them as a whole person, not just another cancer patient. I am eternally grateful for their cheerfulness and compassion during some very dark and scary days.

Sent by Doris | 12:40 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Thank you for making it easier for all folks involved in the cancer world to participate. Someone hit it right on with the word "humanity" ! We are all so involved in it and our very humanity is eventually going to be rock. Doctors who show it, nurses who bring you through it, patients who feel it and caregivers who double feel it. God bless Leroy and Laurie for the blog and all you participate in it. With love to all.

Sent by cjgroh@alaska.net\\\\\\ | 12:43 PM ET | 08-26-2008

I had to do my chemo in-patient. I was so scared the first night that I asked a family member to stay with me overnight. I was a 41-year old man who was afraid of the chemo boogeyman. I even remember the very first drops going through the IV bag into my Hickman. Obviously I survived that night and a lot more nights and days. My nurses at Hershey Medical Center were truly like angels to me. They would stay and talk with me about anything and everything. Not so much about medical stuff as it was just little things that make up life. I really felt like I got to know these ladies and vice versa. Personally, I don't think I could do what they do. But I do know that they made an otherwise unbearable experience a lot more tolerable. I agree with the comment about angels walking on the earth. Thank God there are people who find this calling rewarding. These ladies may not have saved my life medically, but they did save it emotionally. Same thing.

Hey, I won our basketball pool one year, too!!

Sent by Dave U. | 12:46 PM ET | 08-26-2008

As the young girls text each other, OMG!!! How coincidental is this? I won our office March Madness pool the same year (2006). I picked my brackets at 5 a.m. in the morning, in the car while being driven into the hospital by my husband for my major debulking surgery. I kept reminding Joe not to forget to get those brackets faxed in by noon.

Pierse, you've made me smile today, and made it an extra good day. My chemo nurse, Diana at DFCI, has also been a wonderful steadying and calming influence. You are indeed special angels in white!

Sent by Sheara | 12:54 PM ET | 08-26-2008

A note to Tina from Alton -- The "Cancer Sucks" tees (and assorted other items) can be ordered online. Just google "cancer sucks t-shirts" and you'll discover the many possibilities.

xo to all ~

Sent by Kim Forester | 1:21 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Pierse,

You are an angel. Your faith is a answers tough questions we face in cancer world. Bless you. Laurie, thank you for introducing us to her. I have always wondered how these angels do this day after day. Now I know.

Sent by Kathy B. | 1:24 PM ET | 08-26-2008

I am a somewhat new blog reader within only the last few months so I have gotten to read maybe more somber blogs than in the early days so it is really great to see the blogs of others. REading their perspective is up-lifting. I am also happy to see that everyone is campaigning for the blog to continue. I too think that it is both inspiring and helpful to those of us who have been touched by this disease and for those who have not because it is merely a matter of time so they can learn. Thank you for your thoughts and if I could do anything for you Laurie in your time of grief it would be a smile that recognizes your strength and courage!!!

Sent by Erin | 1:29 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Laurie and Pierse,
I cannot thank you enough for reminding me just how important those gifted nurses are! They were wonderful to Neil and myself. I will never forget the lovely nurse that came to our room after he passed and just held me. I just kept thinking I had Angel wings wrapped around me and holding me tight.

I also wear my three bracelets! LiveStrong, Cancer Sucks, and the one they gave Neil when he was diagnosed. Hope, Bravery, Endurance and Courage. It reminds me now of those still fighting and those left behind.
Continued prayers to you and all!

Sent by Laurie Hirth | 1:44 PM ET | 08-26-2008

How wonderful to hear from the chemo nurses. Jim almost looked forward to chemo Tuesdays to see his wonderful nurse, Vicki. At one of the early session she commented that the blue shirt he was wearing made his eyes look very blue. Afterwards he asked my daughter and me to get him other comfortable blue shirts. He wore one to every chemo session. What a gift Vicki had to make him feel so special even as the light behind those blue eyes was dimming. Take care Laurie, I hope you have good friends to hold onto.

Sent by Denise | 1:53 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Hello Pierse, as a cancer survivor and nurse I really appreciate your writing and story. I to had a wounderful nurse who knowing I did the same thing as her always lifted me up when I went for my chemo. So thank you to you and Dr.Meyer for your compasionate caring humanity!!
Laurie here we are to lift you up, 1...2..3.. up up and away.........
Peace be with you.
Marelly

Sent by Marelly | 2:06 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Dear Laurie
Thank you for giving Pierse a voice here. I am a nurse. A bedside nurse for 26 yrs. Over the yrs., I've toyed w/ grad. school, law school, business school, but have stayed at the bedside because it is the most transformative experience I'll ever have. My first job was on a pediatric floor and I watched plenty of children deal w/ cancer. Some got better, many didn't. I still pray for them and their families and knowing them changed me, just like knowing Leroy changed Pierse.
Nurses ease the burden, give some distraction, all the while never forgetting their own resposibilities for caring for their patients and families.
Thank you, Pierce, and thank you, Laurie. With love,

Sent by valerie Longfellow | 2:17 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Must be my remnants of chemo brain...I meant Dinah in my earlier post, not Dianna (although if there is a Dianna at DFCI, I'll bet you are an angel, too!)

Sent by Sheara | 2:19 PM ET | 08-26-2008

I would like to personally express my sincerest regrets to all the medical professionals whom treated me 33 years ago... I was the worlds WORST patient.. but in my own defense... I felt like a wild animal cornered and my only "defense was aggression"....

Those people were absolutely fantastic and seemed to understand my reactions to my situation and despite myself.. they treated me with repsect and kindness which I certainly did NOT deserve.........

To ALL medical professionals...

THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart and soul

I only wish I had made the effort to get to know YOU and allowed you all to truly get to now me........

This posting and all the comments back just further prove to me what I missed... the support I am sure I WOULD have gotten had I let them........

I could have at least minimized my isolation and those feeling of being so completely alone.........

If only I could make amends all these years later...........................

Sent by Ron Bye (NH) | 2:43 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Pierse, That was such a great story and the ending brought tears to my eyes. Thank you, Laurie.

Sent by N.R. | 2:52 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Good afternoon, Laurie and Pierse.

One common thread is coming through the majority of comments today--that oncology nurses (and certain drs.) are angels. When Pat was going through his chemo, and then the vaccinations down in Dallas, we decided that there has to be a special place in heaven for all of these wonderful, caring people. It takes a very special person to be able to go in to work day after day, facing the fear, the pain, the gut-wrenching life that cancer brings to patients and life givers alike with charm, grace and an easy smile.

God bless you all.

Hugs and lifting, Laurie.

Sent by Kathy Barney from Michigan | 2:56 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Thank you for that. I LOVE my chemo nurses - and being a "regular" now - no end in sight, they treat me as one of the girls. I can get the room rocking with my little off hand comments. I routinely convince the other patients we get Bendadryl before chemo "just to shut us up!" You have to find laughter where you can.

Thank God for those chemo nurses. And joy in small things like March Madness pools. Wish I could have seen the pile of coins!

Sent by Anita Apodaca | 3:14 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Even cancer world is full of surprises, and the thing I found most enlightening was the level of kindness, concern and empathy I received from my care providers. Sure there was an occasional bad apple in the bunch (you know who you are Dr. Nuclear Medicine who complained about being late for golf because my admission took longer than planned) but something about being involved with cancer patients seems to bring out a generosity of spirit in people that is better than a gift of sapphires.

Peggy C.

Sent by Peggy Carey | 3:31 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Laurie & All,
I came to this blog shortly after Leroy's special was aired on television. At that time, it has been 12 years since losing my Mom to lung cancer and for some reason, the blog became a daily must-read. Then in late May of this year, my dearest friend was diagnosed with breast cancer, 3 months before her 48th birthday (today). She died at home, 8 weeks after diagnosis. Leroy's, Laurie's, your readers' and now these wonderful doctors & nurses' words keep me inspired and, more importantly, close to my lost family and friends. For that, I will read as long as you all write and will thank you daily.

Sent by Anne Belin | 3:37 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Laurie and other cancer patience. Help!
I need to make the decieson as to treatment or no treatment for stage 4 lung cancer, I'm told that I can't be operated or cured. without treatment less than a year - right now I feel great! What to do? I'm 73 and I want quality of life.
Was all the operations, pain, chemo, radiation, etc. worth it? Was the quality of life good? Is lasting two years with chemo or one year without treatment worth it? If you had to do it over again would you still take chemo? Your opinions would help.

Sent by Dee,Vt. | 3:37 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Pierse Byrnes sounds like a person that has a job that adds meaning to her life. Thank you Pierse and Laurie for spotlighting another voice in Leroy's choir.
Hugs for both of you,

Sent by eaf | 3:38 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Wouldn't it be informative to have a reality show with doctors, nurses, patients, and caregivers who had to deal with life and death issues and presented them in realistic but "All part of life" terms. I think I'd find it more instructive than "America's Top Model" or "Are you smarter than a fifth grader"

Sent by Elaine | 3:38 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Ron Bye,
You just did!

Sent by Laurie Hirth | 4:03 PM ET | 08-26-2008

God bless the folks who work with cancer patients. To have the ability to hold back the tears and put on a smile and help us through....they are awesome. I am so sorry, Laurie, because I guess it is so trye that the ones that have it really hard too are those left behind. I think it took a year or so after dealing with cancer for me to appreciate the full load my family carried. I send you many hugs.

Sent by Beth S | 4:21 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Dear Laurie:

How wonderful that you are not only continuing this blog but you are bringing in all the people who helped you and Leroy over the years. We can read how they think and feel, and they are truly fabulous folk.

Elizabeth

Sent by Elizabeth in Savannah | 4:27 PM ET | 08-26-2008

My husband and I are also nurses. Pierse couldn't have written a better commentary. Laurie, you are still in my thoughts and prayers.

Sent by Laura Rupp | 4:28 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Hi Laurie,

I was on vacation and away from a computer. I "checked in" to find out Leroy was gone. I pray he has gone to a better place. It's wonderful what you and everyone on the blog has written about Chemo nurses and Oncologists. I'm glad Leroy got such comfort from his team.
Thank you for keeping the blog going.

Sent by Marcy in NJ | 4:28 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Leroy wondered how the blog would continue after he couldn't do it any more. Laurie, this is a wonderful continuation of Leroy's work. I'm sure he's pleased.

Add me to the list of those who can not say enough about all of the people that I came in contact with. My surgeons at Memorial Sloan Kettering, my medical oncologist here at home and the wonderful, wonderful chemo nurses who made the chemo room a place of life, not a place of death. Bless you all!

Sent by Dave Jenkins | 4:34 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Pierse,
Hooray for nurses!
As the husband of a nurse and also an occasional patient, I hold nurses in high regard and you also have a special place in my affections.
Oncology nurses are a special breed within a special breed. I don't know how you do it, but am grateful that you do. Since treatment consumes so much of a cancer patient's time and energy, skillful, compassionate care means so much.
Laurie, still lifting out here. Is it my imagination or are you getting a tiny bit lighter?
All my best.

Sent by Gene Koeneman | 4:52 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Ron--you just *did* make amends! You offered your apology and your tardy thanks and gratitude. I am sure all health care workers read that and imagined it was the much later clear thinking of one of their own worst patients. I am sure they appreciated your making amends. Good luck to you!

Sent by Katie | 5:10 PM ET | 08-26-2008

For the past five years I have told everyone who would listen and a few who didn't want to how the Oncology nurses are angels. That is also true for the wonderful attendants in Radiation. They took such care to keep my modesty as much as posssible and were unfailingly kind.
The Research nurses were all business, they had to be, but when they wern't concentrating on procedures they too had time to care for a nervous patient.
I have been the luckiest person in the world. I have the best care Stanford Cancer Center has had to offer both in personnel and treatment.
I was not supposed to last this long, five years, but somehow with all the support from wonderful caregivers, I am still "doing my thing".
Thank you LeRoy for sharing our adventure, you just got to the end of it a little before me.
Marilyn

Sent by Marilyn M Hawley | 5:15 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Laurie,
You are doing a great job with the blog, DON"T STOP. You've learned the language and we need your voice.

Sent by Shirley Gossett,South Carolina, Non Hodgkins survivor 10 years and grateful. | 5:37 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Thank you Kim - I don't know why I didn't think of that! I googled cancer sucks and found lots of information and will soon be wearing my own tee shirt.
Love to everyone

Sent by Tina from Alton, IL | 5:48 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Thank you Pierse for taking care of Leroy and Laurie...

Sent by Faun | 5:48 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Dear Laurie, Thank you for continuing the
blog. Thank you too for allowing us to hear from the doctor and chemo nurse. The journey of the caregiver continues...Thanks for your insight and the words and choices you have chosen to share with us. When my own mother died, my first thank yous were written to the hospice nurses and when I saw Mom's doctor at an eating establishment, I had to go over and thank her. They had all treated my mother with love and dignity. That was so important during her illness that caring people and knowledgeable people take care of her. We had had our battles, getting her going to the dr. etc., but as she was failing, it was so
important that she receive wonderful care. Thank you Laurie, and blessings and peace. Diane

Sent by Diane | 5:55 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Laurie-Thanks so much for sharing the basketball pool. How wonderful that in all the sorrow you can remember the glimpses of fun times. What a tribute to you and Leroy. Keep healing and keep living--hope you keep writing as long as it feels right

Sent by Martha C. | 6:12 PM ET | 08-26-2008

This is so true. The caregivers have their own suffering which sometimes is worse than that of the patient. I have multiple myeloma and soon will get a stem cell transplant. I've "shielded" most of my friends and family from this ordeal during most of my treatments, but I can't protect them any more. I need to focus my energy on fighting this beast and hope I don't push away too many people in the process. Chemo definitely sucks.

Sent by Alan B | 6:36 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Thank you, Pierse and Laurie! Cancer World is full of lots of people - patients, caregivers, family, friends, doctors, nurses, phlebotomists, the list goes on and on. My husband and I think that all the medical professionals who have cared for him in the Rogue Valley of southern Oregon and during his stem cell transplant at Stanford are indeed angels. The feeling of relief when we see them for a checkup, chemo, blood draw, transfusion, anything, is immense - we know that ALL of them care for us and have our backs. In fact, one of our (many) favorite oncology nurses is getting married this weekend and we have been invited! As long as last Wednesday's chemo isn't hitting Ed too hard, we're absolutely going. It's evidence to us that cancer world isn't able to suck everything good into it, like a black hole.

And thank you for continuing this blog - I miss Leroy's voice, but Laurie and Pierse have lots to say, too. Hugs to you, Laurie. Hang in there.

Sent by Betsy | 7:22 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Laurie and Pierse,
Thank you for taking the time to stay on our journey with us.
In our world, we had a Shelley, a Mary and a Sherrie-- all very special nurses that have to deal with the effects of the monster every day. Chemo nurses are very special people.
Jane

Sent by Jane in AR | 7:30 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Hi Laurie,

The comments regarding health care professionals and their sense of purpose and caregiving reminded me of an entry Leroy posted May 22 of 2007 that I have kept in my files. In talking about caregivers, he wrote in part:

"I've talked about the burdens that cancer patients bear. But the burdens carried by those who care for, and about, them may be almost too much. Quite honestly, not everyone can handle it. Too many of you have written in about family members or friends who turn away, who refuse to help, or who just can't take it. As painful as that is, we just have to recognize that not everyone is up to it."

Many of us who are caregivers of those going through this process deal with pronounced stresses every day and night. Our true characters rise to the forefront - somehow we know how to manage to bring a smile to a loved one. Making the small moments gems of joy. Our lives become secondary; our drive is to make life better for our loved ones, in any way, shape or form.
Love to all the caregivers - we are a special breed.

Sent by Brian P - Sutton MA | 7:34 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Pierse,

what a blessing you've been to Leroy, Laurie and to many others, I'm sure. I'm so grateful that people like yourself choose to do your work - you make such a difference!

Patty

Sent by Patty | 7:41 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Dear Laurie, Christian and Pierse,

Isn't it amazing that all of your lives converged during this part of Leroy's (and each of yours as well) journey?

What a blessing!

And to Laurie and Sasha -- still lifting!

Sent by Janice J. , Los Angeles | 8:28 PM ET | 08-26-2008

What a lovely story and tribute, we should all be so lucky to be remembered so fondly when we pass...Love to Laurie, love to all the bloggers here from Sherri in Texas

Sent by Sherri Eggleston | 8:38 PM ET | 08-26-2008

What a nurse!! You are fabulous. I had the most wonderful chemo nurses. They watched over me, they kept me safe (especially when I had that bad reaction) and they are so loving. Takes a very special person to do this kind of job. And, when I was finally done, they all signed a card for me, gave me some bubbles to blow and sang "Hit the Road Jack" until I could not cry anymore. Bless you Pierse.

Sent by Cindee | 8:43 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Dear Laurie,
I love Pierse. She is delightful.
My girl Tracy Clark was a patient at
Hopkins also. Pierse would step in on Laura's day off. Enough praise and thanks cannot be said for Laura, Pierse,
Dr. Oliver and the rest of her TEAM. They embraced her. There is no doubt that she was given the best of care. She had total confidence in them. She felt their love and compassion. I miss
them all. I miss the other patients I came to know. I even miss the 60 mile ride to the hospital. I had a mission then. I know too Pierse that Tracy is in a better place. Thankyou for the excellent care. Keeping you in my
prayers Laurie; keep talking to him; I
believe he hears you. Hugs, Kathy

Sent by Kathy Willett | 8:45 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Laurie & Pierse, thank you for your post.

I too appreciate the chemo nurses who work with cancer patients. After Jim died, I went back to the clinic were he was treated to thank everyone and his nurse Jennifer said to me "He was such fun!" What a great way to be remembered!

Laurie, take care of yourself and take things easy. My Jim died 7 months ago today, and I still can't believe he's gone.

Sent by Laurel | 8:47 PM ET | 08-26-2008

These insights into Leroy's life are so wonderful to read. They are a ray of sunshine in a dark time. Thank you Dr. Meyer, Pierse and especially Laurie for sharing with us!

Sent by Merin | 9:16 PM ET | 08-26-2008

My Pierse Byrnes was Wendy, Darcey and Sherri and oh do they get us thru it!!!They become our friends, our cheerleaders, our patient friends who listen to every detail of side effects or worry that we have and get us thru the chemo!!!
How kind of you Laurie to share these special people with all of us - as we can so relate to the same people that got us thru our treatments.
I so hope you are getting some rest, and gaining some peace - I know that Leroy is somewhere pretty fantastic and wishing he could tell us all about it!!! What a guy, I still feel his presence...........but I can only imagine how very, very much you miss him. Lifting you up in prayers and sending you warm hugs!

Sent by Ruth Chermok | 9:27 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Ron Bye...don't beat yourself up over this. It's all sinking in now and that's all that matters. You obviously appreciate what the doctors and nurses did for you....late but nonetheless, appreciate. People understand. Just pay it forward now...that's what Leroy and Laurie would do ...
My nurses were Pam and Marie and they got me through the chemo. They truly are angels.

Sent by Ann Murphy | 9:54 PM ET | 08-26-2008

I am a nurse and a cancer survivor who had 1-1/2 yrs of chemo. I am glad that Laurie took the time to thank Leroy's chemo nurse. I too am thankful for my chemo nurse Natalie and Vesta & Wendy and my breast cancer case manager Lanette....They are all wonderful! In an ironic twist of fate, Natalie was once one of my students but my peers and I taught her well-- we had alot to work with! Good nurses in any specialty are a gift and especially when they are "my nurse." The best to Laurie and thanks for continuing Leroy's gift to those of us who drew the cancer card in this game of life.

Sent by Mary Lou Saindon | 10:03 PM ET | 08-26-2008

I have sent a message twice. It's not as maddening as it would be if I didn't know you have problems once in a while. I just don't want Laurie to think that people aren't responding to her.

Could you let her know that I've tried?

Thanks.

Sent by Kathy Barney from Michigan | 10:07 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Pierse - Thank you for your work and your words. Gentle, competant, human trail guides make every path, including cancer, less frightening.

Sent by Victoria Hendricks | 10:11 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Laurie,

Thank you for the breadth of your perspective and your thoughtfulness in bringing us the words of Leroy's nurse and doctor. I continue to learn from this blog in ways I could not have anticipated.

Sent by Holly | 10:47 PM ET | 08-26-2008

Hi Laurie, I wasn't on the computer yesterday so just discovered your wonderful postings from yesterday and today. Thank you for introducing Leroy's doctor and chemo nurse. They shared a deep bond with Leroy; that's obvious.

Sent by Paulette | 12:41 AM ET | 08-27-2008

Hey Everyone-
This post today reminded me of the ABC.com mini-series on Hopkins. I used the online viewer and watched the whole thing in 2 days. It is worth the time for anyone interested in 'real' stories of both the patients and the staff. I don't know if Pierse was edited in and I, of course, looked for any hint of Leroy. Maybe someone with a keener eye might pick him out...(sorry if someone else posted about Hopkins & I missed it).

Sent by Maureen M. | 2:36 AM ET | 08-27-2008

I am so greatful for my chemo nurse Kristy at the Uconn Med Ctr in Farmington ,CT she was so caring and made me laugh through the experience I had to go through,but 2 yrs later I am still in contact with her very much and I am glad I made a new friend for life...Thanks Laurie Keep Strong !!

Sent by luisa | 8:18 AM ET | 08-27-2008

Laurie, thanks for keeping in touch with all of us.
Thanks to all the Pierses in the world, mine were Socorro and Pilar Hornedo, I cannot thank them enough.
Angela

Sent by Angela Glez. Granada | 8:42 AM ET | 08-27-2008

What a great post. Leroy had it pretty good even in "cancer sucks" world. It makes me so happy to know that he was surrounded by such good people through this whole ordeal. Thanks for taking such good care of such wonderful people. Yeah for Hopkins staff!!!!

Sent by JaeMoyer | 8:52 AM ET | 08-27-2008

Laurie, I just learned about the loss of Leroy. I always enjoyed hearing the boom of his voice when he entered the treatment area, he will be greatly missed and my prayers are with you. Pierse, you make me proud to be an oncology nurse and your colleague (even though you are a Ravens fan)Keep doing what you do, the world is a better place for it.

Sent by Denise | 4:50 PM ET | 09-04-2008