TENDER MERCIES OF THE LORD

Another Clean PET Scan! 25 Months Straight!

2012-01-23T17:05:00.000-08:00

Great News! Another clean PET scan! Now I have gone 25 months without any sign of cancer!
We are so grateful for your words of encouragement, prayer, fasting and support.

The man in this photo is Sirdar A.E. de Alencastro Guimaraes, my best friend from Porto Alegre, Brazil. This photo was taken while he was talking to me on the telephone. Brother Guimaraes is a man of great faith. He reminds me of Nephi. His and your prayers have invoked the tender mercies of the Lord on my behalf!

I am still working to get rid of Host vs. Graft Disease. My walking is complicated, but I receive weekly blood treatments (ECP) and infusions to help eradicate the disease. We are confident that I can return to normal and gain back my muscle strength in my legs and arms.

Graft vs. Host Disease

2011-07-15T20:54:00.000-07:00

Well, just a little speed bump. Last week I was diagnosed with Graft vs. Host Disease (GVHD).

It is very common with bone marrow (stem cell) transplant patients. Essentially, Vicki's stem cells and my body are having a little tug-of-war: creating rashes, hard scar tissue in weird places and general fatigue.

The HemaOncologists actually want their bone marrow transplant patients to have a little GVHD because it attacks lymphoma and helps prevent a relapse.

So I have a little GVHD. Just another speed bump to perfect health!

60th Birthday Celebration at Disneyland

2011-07-09T12:43:00.000-07:00

All the girls, including granddaughter Evie, celebrated my 60th birthday at the "Happiest Place On Earth! We spent two and one-half days in the Magic Kingdom. It was absolutely wonderful!
Here we are pictured in front of my "old stomping grounds": "it's a small world" where I worked for three summers. Wonderful memories past and present.

We also celebrated another clean PET scan on May 12! Another tender mercy of the Lord!

Utah's Legal Elite and Mountain States SuperLawyers

2011-02-06T23:03:00.000-08:00

I was honored this month to be named by my peers to Utah's Legal Elite and Mountain States SuperLawyers in the area of Corporate Law. I was also included for the twentieth year in Who's Who In America. I am very grateful to my law partners and staff at Hill, Johnson & Schmutz for supporting me through this health crisis. I am also grateful to my clients who have remained loyal to me. I am still practicing more than part-time while I continue visits to Huntsman Cancer Center for treatments and examinations.

The City That Never Sleeps / NYC

2011-01-17T15:04:00.000-08:00

Last week, I spent the entire week in "The City That Never Sleeps." I went with Ali to enroll her at Shillington School, where she is studying computer graphic design during her final semester of high school. Ali is living with Natalie in her apartment in Hell's Kitchen near the Theater District.

Ali and I saw "In the Heights" and "Spiderman." We were excited to see our old friend, Patrick Page, starring as The Green Goblin. He was extraordinary. He has the greatest voice of any actor I have seen perform.

New York is amazing....constant movement of people and traffic, great restaurants and wonderful theater! I am so grateful for this experience with Ali.

The Arrival of Evie Marie Gerulat (First Grandchild)

2011-01-03T20:43:00.000-08:00

We had momentous news with the arrival of Evie Marie Gerulat born on November 15, 2010 to Nicole (our second daughter) and Adam. Evie is our first grandchild and we are so grateful for her safe arrival and Nicole's good health. We are enjoying her sweet spirit and endearing personality! Nicole and Adam are perfect parents. Evie has a wardrobe fit for a princess (compliments of Nicole and friends) and Adam kisses her incessantly. Sorry I haven't blogged in so long, but with this great blessing in our lives, things have been really wonderful. I hope you all had a very Merry Christmas...and Happy New Year!

Another Clean PET Scan!

2010-09-24T22:42:00.001-07:00

Another beautiful rainbow day in my life! Another clean PET scan!
That means there is no sign of any cancerous activity in my body!
Another tender mercy of the Lord!

The Mighty Men Of Rushmore

2010-09-01T11:08:00.000-07:00

Now that I can travel outside of Utah and Salt Lake counties, my brother, Sheril and I took a weekend history trip to Martin's Cove in Wyoming and Mount Rushmore in South Dakota.
We had an extraordinary time, inspired by the stories and sacrifices of the Martin Handcart Company and inspired by the lives and legacies of the mighty presidents enshrined in granite at Mt. Rushmore.

The Beautiful Women In My Life

2010-08-25T13:16:00.000-07:00

At Kara's reception, the six beautiful women in my life. Someone who saw this photo thought that Kathy was one of our daughters. I am so proud of Kara and Jeff for their sealing in the Salt Lake Temple last Friday. What a lucky man I am!

Lake Powell

2010-08-18T08:11:00.001-07:00

Marvelous! That word is a somewhat insignificant attempt to describe Lake Powell and our week with family and friends (who are just like family) on the houseboat. A wonderful time with our sweet family on a celestial lake.

This was our first vacation in over a year, due to my doctors' restriction to remain within 45 miles of University Hospital. It felt wonderful to venture out beyond Utah and Salt Lake counties.

Another Clean PET Scan! Gratitude......

2010-07-28T21:44:00.000-07:00

(Kathy and Rich arm wrestling in ICU at University Hospital)

Another clean PET scan! Another tender mercy of the Lord!

To my great old friends and my great new friends via blogs and emails and at In-N-Out Burgers corporate headquarters, my gratitude for your support and kindness.

To my world-class doctors and nurses at Hunstman Cancer Hospital, my gratitude for treating me with love and compassion and fighting with me to be delivered from cancer!

To my ward family, my gratitude for supporting my family and me through this crisis with true charity!

To my priesthood leaders who have given inspired priesthood blessings, my gratitude for your inspiration and love.

To all of you who read this blog, my gratitude for your faith, thoughts, and prayers in our behalf.

To my sweet sister Vicki, my stem cell donor, my eternal gratitude for saving my life with your amazing immune system.

To my daughters (son-in-law and soon to be son-in-law), you have honored your father and mother with love by your actions.

To my amazing wife, Kathy. You have been a rock. We lean against you for nursing care, support, love, and inspiration. I have an eternity to try and repay your kindness and love.

And finally, to my Lord and Savior, my humble gratitude for healing me and saving me.

James Taylor and Carole King Concert

2010-07-18T15:15:00.000-07:00

Family and friends (10 of us) attended the James Taylor / Carole King Troubador Reunion Concert in Salt Lake City. Wow! What an wonderful evening of songs from the 70's and 80's. Carole's voice was magnificent at age 68. She can still belt those tunes like she did on the amazing Tapestry album. Many of her songs were covered by JT: "You've Got a Friend," "Shower the People," and "Up On The Roof." James was James...like he had invited you into his living room as old friends. Probably the best concert I have attended, though Paul McCartney was pretty special!

Road Bike Trip to Bridal Veil Falls

2010-06-27T18:45:00.000-07:00

Wow! So excited to report that I was able to ride (with friends and family) on my road bike from our home garage to Bridal Veil Falls and back! It was so exhilirating and beautiful. I am so grateful to live in this amazing valley where the mountains and waterfalls are only 20 minutes away via bicycle. Update: still in remission, blood tests look good each week, getting stronger every day. Thanks for your faith and prayers!

Life

2010-05-15T08:15:00.000-07:00

"Dance like no one is watching. Sing like no one is listening. Love like you've never been hurt and live like it's heaven on earth." - Mark Twain

Scary Photo!

2010-04-28T21:05:00.000-07:00

This is a photo of me taken in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the University of Utah Medical Center on January 1, 2010. I was intubated, unconscious, and 85 pounds heavier (all water). I regained consciousness on January 4. Note that my arms were in restraints to prevent me from removing the tubes in my mouth. An interesting way to begin the year!

Second Clean PET Scan! Hallelujah II!

2010-04-23T16:58:00.000-07:00

My second clean PET scan since my second bone marrow transplant was CLEAN! Again, our gratitude for your faithful prayers and the tender mercies of the Lord.

Clean PET Scan! Hallelujah!

2010-02-23T18:35:00.000-08:00

The PET scan is clean (negative)! That means that there is no sign of cancerous metabolic activity in my body! This is the best news we could have at this time. Of course, there may still be cancer cells in my body, but Vicki's stem cells are creating an immune system which will eradicate them.

We are elated, recognizing the Lord's tender mercies, and grateful to you for your support.

Grateful To Be Home - PET Scan Tomorrow

2010-02-18T18:16:00.000-08:00

I am so grateful to be home - with Kathy, Ali, our two Portuguese Water Dogs and all of our family and friends who grace our home on a daily basis.

Each day, I have become more fully aware of how close I came to dying in the ICU. I am ever more grateful to the Lord for his tender mercies and to my medical team at Huntsman / U of U who saved my life. I am recuperating at home. Kathy is my loving and proactive caregiver.

Tomorrow is the big PET scan. It will detemine whether or not my new immune system (borrowed from my sister Vicki) has eliminated the lymphoma. We have great faith that the PET scan will be clean. Thanks for your faith, fasting, prayers and support.

Here we go, Cougars

2010-02-01T00:57:00.000-08:00

Things are going well and Rich is home. You can see him in full cougar gear on row 10. Go cougs!

Dialysis

2010-01-29T12:23:00.001-08:00

It's looking good today. If the fever stays down today then we will leave in the morning tomorrow. The kidney doc. thinks that Rich can stop dialysis now forever. They will know for sure after some blood tests to be taken on Monday. That is amazing news and has been a big worry. Rich might even try to go the game Saturday night. Go cougs!

Play ball

2010-01-28T15:18:00.001-08:00

Today is a better day with hope of going home possibly Saturday. Just in time for BYU to beat Utah. They have changed a medicine and have seen improvement with the fevers. Rich hasn't had a fever since last night so they are hopeful that this new antifungal did the trick. Dr. Chad Kimball helped explain a little more of what we should be afraid of and what we need to have happen in order to go home. So....let's play ball.

La ti da

2010-01-27T22:51:00.001-08:00

Rich did the thorocentesis today and they took put 1 liter of fluid. No results yet on that and now we are in dialysis until 3:30. He should be pretty tired today. Natalie comes in tomorrow so he needs to get rested for.....ya know all that that entails:)

No news

2010-01-25T14:08:00.001-08:00

There isn't any progress with the diagnosis on Rich's fever. He still has a 99 to 101 temp consistantly throughout the day and night. It may just go away on it's own or they will take a biopsy of the lung fluid. All other tests were negative. So i guess it is happy 24 tonight in the hospital:)

Fever time

2010-01-24T10:29:00.000-08:00

Rich still fevering and they are unable to isolate the source of infection so they are unable to release him. So, we are here until he goes 24 hours without a temp. Life is good!

Uh oh.

2010-01-22T11:17:00.001-08:00

So we are back on the BMT floor at the U after Rich spiked a fever last night. He is receiving intervienious antibiotics today and will do dialysis here tomorrow. So we know that he will be here at least until then. Apparently this is to be expected given his compromised immune system.

Home sweet home

2010-01-20T11:35:00.000-08:00

We are going home later today. Hooray! Rich is having dialysis 3 times a week in Provo maybe for 2weeks. Miracles happen!

Update

2010-01-19T13:59:00.000-08:00

Much better today. Waiting to see how much longer we are here. Weighs in at 158 lbs Thank you to you all for our miracle!

Good news. He's skinny again.

2010-01-18T13:47:00.001-08:00

Rich is doing well today. The heart doc said the heart is fine and the cath came out last night. They are taking 3 more liters out today with dialysis. He is really skinny 165 lb of no muscle. :)

today's update

2010-01-14T11:31:00.001-08:00

from k:

"Everything looks the same today. We should be here in IMCU as long as they continue dialysis -could even be a week. Kidneys have us a little worried and we are hoping that they will pick it up and function better again."

you have great prayers.

2010-01-13T10:50:00.000-08:00

New text from K:

"No bipap today for breathing no dialysis for now because things are going well. He ate a big breakfast and is sitting up in a chair looking at email. When I got here he was talking politics with the heart doc from Israel and discussing the Middle East So things are looking up today. Thank you all for the prayers."

more issues

2010-01-12T13:42:00.001-08:00

new update from K:

"They are doing dialysis in the morning. A new development and an organ not yet prayed for is the lung. He has fluid now in the lungs. We are trying everything we can to keep from intubating again. Pray for clear lungs now. Love, K"

prayers work

2010-01-12T09:33:00.001-08:00

Another text from my mom:

"The procedure (Pericardial Drain Placement) went well and they took 1 1/2 qts of fluid. This morning he is drinking his ensure and is waiting to talk to the doctor still -He isn't in any pain and is talking. Prayers work and got him through it."

Thank you!

prayers needed

2010-01-11T20:35:00.001-08:00

a text from my mom tonight:

Your dad is having a catheter put in the sac surrounding the heart tonight. There is too much fluid around the heart and making it hard for the heart to beat properly. They will drain the fluid and evaluate what and why it is happening. Please pray now for the procedure to go smoothly and the heart to keep functioning well.

back at bmt

2010-01-11T15:10:00.000-08:00

Since the last post, Dad was released from ICU back to the BMT unit, but then was sent to the Cardiac unit for two days because of the fluid being taken out too quickly. Fortunately, they found no heart damage. He is now (thankfully) back at BMT and here is a picture of him with an awesome gift basket from Angie, Gary, Steve, and Diana -complete with a barbie size mickey shirt for our Ken doll to wear. Thank you! He loves it!

extubation

2010-01-04T09:13:00.000-08:00

Dad was extubated this morning (they removed his breathing tube)... so when we walked in he said hello! He hasn't been speaking for a week so this is huge. Right now he is only on oxygen, his medicines and a feeding tube. He'll most likely have one more dialysis session this morning and hopefully will be transferred back to the BMT unit to finish his recovery.

Last night he was insistent on watching football since communication was pretty tough and when we walked in this morning, he was watching the news and looking forward to Monday Night Football.

-nicole

he's awake!

2010-01-03T12:57:00.000-08:00

dad woke up today!

his memory is short-term, but we have been answering all his questions and he is very calm.

he's been asking for his sister and cried tears of joy upon hearing her stem cells have engrafted and his white cell count has more than doubled.

with the breathing tube, we are lip-reading and he is trying to point at letters to communicate.

he will be extubated tomorrow morning! i'll keep you posted.

-nicole

ICU

2010-01-03T12:55:00.000-08:00

Rich was admitted to the ICU on Sunday. His kidneys were not performing very well, so they have been giving him fluids, a breathing tube, feeding tube and he is heavily sedated. There are so many little hurdles he needs to overcome before his breathing tube can come out -though he is breathing well on his own.

Right now, he has about 80 lb of water in him which they are trying to remove. He is now on dialysis.
On the bone marrow side, the good news is that Vicki's stem cells have engrafted and his white cell count has more than doubled... so we are hoping they fight for him.
Yesterday they took down the sedation to see how responsive he is to commands and he squeezed Kathy's hand and opened his eyes slightly at the nurse's command. This a good step towards being able to take the breathing tube out.
Please keep him in your prayers.

Second Stem Cell Transplant Happening Now!

2009-12-17T08:32:00.000-08:00

The second stem cell transplant is happening now! At left is a photo of me with my angel transplant donor, my sister Vicki. The infusion of stem cells only takes about one hour. That's amazing! With wonderful priesthood blessings from church leaders, friends and family and with your prayers, fasting and encouragement, we are faithful that the power of the Lord's deliverance will eliminate my cancer. Our loving gratitude to all.

Appreciation To Friends Unknown

2009-11-29T14:06:00.000-08:00

Just days before Thanksgiving, the Get Well Soon box was left anonymously on my front porch. Upon further inspection, I found a box full of beautiful, hand-made cards from people I do not know.

Apparently, Lyndsey, who I have never met, and who created The Stationery Place (the.stationery.place.blogspot.com), "thought a card drive would be fitting." In her words, "I announced the drive on my blog two weeks ago and have sat back and been amazed at the cards pouring in, all directed toward your family." She apparently teamed up with Cherry Blossoms (she has maintained her anonymity, who created Prayers For Daddy Hill (prayersfordaddyhill.blogspot.com), who also publicized the card drive.

The cards are hand-made and beautiful and the messages magnificent: messages of love, faith, and encouragement.

Lyndsey and Cherry Blossom and all of those who created these beautiful cards: you are true examples of love - for a family you have never met. May the Lord's blessings always be with you.

Bone Marrow Transplant Begins Dec. 15

2009-11-24T12:34:00.000-08:00

As a result of many tender mercies of the Lord, I enter the University of Utah hospital on December 15 for the long-awaited and prayed-for second bone marrow transplant (stem cell replacement). Starting on Dec. 10, I begin out-patient chemotherapy. The transplant team will be preparing Vicki (for her donation of stem cells) and me over the next few weeks.

We continue faithful that Vicki's immune system transferred to my body will annihilate the cancer cells. We are so very grateful for your prayers, fasting and thoughts.

Pre-Opening Party at IN-N-OUT in Orem

2009-11-18T19:03:00.001-08:00

First, I never thought IN-N-OUT would ever come to Utah!
Second, here I am with Ali enjoying the Pre-Opening Party at the first IN-N-OUT in Utah (right here in Orem). Amazing!

CLEAN PET SCAN!

2009-11-17T15:44:00.000-08:00

Wow! Your faith and prayers plus an experimental drug eliminated any signs of active cancer in my body. The PET scan is clean! The tumor is gone! A miracle and tender mercy of the Lord.

With a clean PET scan, my chances of survival after the next bone marrow transplant (stem cell transplant) are dramatically increased. My sister Vicki is meeting with the transplant team tomorrow to begin the process of stem cell extraction. I will probably enter the hospital within the next 7-14 days for the one month transplant process.

Thank you to all who have fasted, prayed and expressed concern on my behalf. Miracles do happen!

Good News! Stem Cell Transplant Planned and Capsule Chemo Working!

2009-11-08T15:02:00.000-08:00

Good News Number One: The capsule-form chemotherapy is working! This week's LDH-level (a blood indicator showing active cancer) compared to last week is amazing! From 3400 down to 940 in one week! (700-750 is normal range). And I don't have ANY pain. According to Dr. Glenn, this is very exciting news and proof that the Revlimid (capsule form chemotherapy) is reducing the size of the tumor.

Good News Number Two: The doctors have decided to go forward with the stem cell transplant! It will be scheduled sometime between November 18 and mid-December. We are excited that Vicki's stem cells can now work to destroy the active cancer.

Our deepest appreciation to all of you for your prayers, fasting and support. Thank you to hundreds of strangers who have emailed me or commented on Natalie and Nicole's blog with support. Thank you to Cherry Blossom (a blog follower of Natalie and Nicole's) for setting up a website entitled Prayers for Daddy Hill. (prayersfordaddyhill.blogspot.com). It is all quite overwhelming!

PET Scan Results Back -New Type of Treatment Begins!

2009-10-14T15:32:00.000-07:00

The PET Scan results came back today and they were disappointing. The tumor really hasn't shrunk, and, in one part, it may have grown. Sooooooo, we are changing chemo therapy treatments. Now I will take a PILL! Can you imagine...no more infusions, no more 8 hour days, nor more overnighters! The new treatment option is Lanalidomide (Revlimid) which has had some success preparing people in my situation for a second bone marrow transplant. I will take PILLS over a 21 day period and then obtain another PET scan. The PILL taking starts tomorrow afternoon. Some of you may have heard that I spent Sunday and Monday at Huntsman Cancer Center for a bladder infection, to transfuse two more pints of blood, etc. Thank you for all of your faith, hope, confidence, diligence and service. You are making a huge difference in my life.

In-N-Out Burger Pre-Opening Party

2009-09-27T09:37:00.000-07:00

Many of you know that I am a huge In-N-Out Burger fan. I think its burgers are the best in the world! We plan vacations around In-N-Out locations, drive out of way for a double-double, call each other from inside a store location, and this week, I drove to St. George for a double-double with my brother, Sheril.

Well, amazingly, In-N-Out corporate offices called me on Saturday and invited me to the Pre-Opening Party of the Orem store (University Parkway) sometime in October-November. I think one of my friends must have anonymously nominated me for this honor! (Thank you whoever you are.) We have always dreamed of In-N-Out coming to Utah...and now we get to join the celebration party!

My Favorite C.S. Lewis Quote

2009-09-17T10:49:00.000-07:00

"God loves us, so He makes us the gift of suffering. Through suffering, we release our hold on the toys of this world, and know our true good lies in another world. We're like blocks of stone, out of which the sculptor carves the forms of men. The blows of his chisel, which hurt us so much, are what make us perfect. The suffering in this world is not the failure of God's love for us; it is that love in action. For believe me, this world that seems to us so substantial is no more than the shadlowlands. Real life has not begun yet." ("Shadowlands," p. 1)

Second Round of Chemo Begins

2009-09-17T10:25:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, we gratefully received the go-ahead (meaning my blood counts were OK and the swine flu is gone) to have the second round of chemo preparatory to the analagous stem cell replacement (bone marrow transplant). Kathy is delivering additional rounds of chemo for five days at home. She has become a qualified infusion nurse. November will probably be the month for the transplant.

We are having alot of fun with our litter of Portuguese Water Dog Puppies, watching Natalie's progress with "Bye,Bye, Birdie" on Broadway, watching Nicole's amazing blog and nationwide "Nicoles Classes" and "Art Weekends," including SFO and NYC, watching Nina's progress (spiritual and leadership) on her mission in Pusan, Korea, watching Kara's great dancing with the BYU Ballroom Dance program and declared major of Elementary Education, watching Ali as a junior and as an Orem High School cheerleader.

We are so grateful for your prayers, fasting, temple prayer lists, and support of our family. It really makes and difference and we feel the power of your prayers in our life daily.

Labor Day Weekend At Huntsman Cancer Hospital

2009-09-07T08:43:00.000-07:00

On Saturday afternoon, I was admitted, during the BYU-Oklahoma football game, at Huntsman because of a high fever. During the week, Ali had been diagnosed with swine flu and both Kathy and I were taking Tamiflu.

Symptoms still point toward swine flu, but the doctors are being guarded in giving an absolute diagnosis. Hope to go home tomorrow.

It was very interesting to watch the BYU-Oklahoma game from the emergency room at the University of Utah Medical Center. All the Utes were rooting for the Cougars! Jeff Kimball would have been totally confused about where he was!

Vicki and Sheril Are Perfect Matches!

2009-08-27T21:04:00.000-07:00

Another miraculous answer to our prayers! Today, we received wonderful news! BOTH my sister Vicki and my brother Sheril are perfect matches for my next stem cell transplant using donor stem cells. How miraculous is that? The statistical possibility for one sibling being a match is 25% and the possibility of two siblings being a match is 6.25% Another tender mercy of the Lord.

Just finished (overnight at Huntsman on Monday night) my fourth round of chemo. Once the doctors have determined that the tumor has decreased sufficiently in size (and the blood tests have already shown amazing progress), then the analagous stem cell transplant will be scheduled.

I am overwhelmed by your kind thoughts, prayers and faith on my behalf.

Fresh Courage Take! Faith, Power, Deliverance!

2009-08-08T19:26:00.000-07:00

Apparently, the tumor started growing again sometime after my last two clean PET scans (April 15 and June 1). It had grown enough by the first of July that I felt extreme fatigue. After three days of tests and another PET scan, the tumor was identified as the cause.

This week, the doctors started CISPLAT chemotherapy (first session on Thursday after installation of a port and another bone marrow biopsy). There will be approximately 4-5 infusions and then another PET Scan. CISPLAT consists of Rituxan, Gemzar and Methylprednisolone. The hope is that this chemo cocktail will reduce the size of the tumor significantly. If that occurs, I could then be eligible for a second bone marrow transplant (analagous stem cell replacement) using stem cells from my siblings. That would introduce a whole new immune system into my body which we hope would be resistant to and attack the non-hodkins lymphoma cells.

We are very humbled by this latest news after 90 days of remission. We remain and will remain faithful and confident in the priesthood blessings I have received, in your faith and prayers and in the power of the Lord to deliver me from cancer and heal me. We are grateful for the stength you give us.

Cancer Returns

2009-08-02T16:20:00.001-07:00

On Thursday, I had another PET scan. The results confirm that the tumor has returned. Kathy and I are meeting with my oncologists tomorrow to evaluate our options. I will report back tomorrow evening. Thank you to the Cascade Fourth Ward (Bishop Frank Davis) for your specific fast on my behalf today. Thank you to all for your faith, kindness and love.

Kathy Hill Featured In Utah Valley Magazine

2009-07-11T15:04:00.000-07:00

Here is an amazing article about my amazing wife, Kathy! Couldn't be prouder!

http://blog.uvmag.com/2009/the-girls-next-door/

100 DAY PET SCAN NEGATIVE!

2009-06-11T13:01:00.000-07:00

I just returned from the Huntsman Cancer Hospital for my 100 day (from the bone marrow transplant) testing. The PET scan was negative, which means no active cancer in my body! Another tender mercy of the Lord! Thanks again for your thoughts, faith and prayers! Next testing is in six months.

IT'S A MIRACLE!

2009-04-15T15:54:00.000-07:00

IT'S A MIRACLE! The results of the CT-PET scan are NEGATIVE! This means that there is no active cancer in my body! In medical terms, I am in "remission" and am in "complete recovery" from the high dose chemotherapy and bone marrow transplant (stem cell replacement).

The Lord has extended his "tender mercies" to me as a result of wonderful priesthood blessings and the faith, fasting and prayers of family and friends. (1Nephi1:20) I am profoundly grateful to you for your part in this miracle.

PET Scan Next Monday: Gaining Strength

2009-04-10T14:34:00.000-07:00

Many of you have asked: when will we know for sure that the cancer is GONE! Answer: next Tuesday after my PET scan on Monday.

I am at home gaining strength every day. When I go out into crowds, I must wear a mask and not touch anyone or anything. I cannot venture out more than 60 miles from the Hunstman Cancer Center for another 6 weeks.

May your Easter weekend be full of family memories and further revelation regarding the reality of Christ's atonement and resurrection. He lives!

Transplant Successful! Home Again After Four Weeks!

2009-03-22T14:36:00.000-07:00

I apologize for not updating sooner, but the combination of chemotherapy, antiobiotics and painkillers made me a little "loopy".

Friday, March 20, I was finally released from the U of U Hospital. I was originally released on March 13, but I developed fever and chills over the weekend and was re-admitted to the hospital on March 16.

I am writing this from home. I am so grateful to be home after four weeks in the hospital. But the greatest news is that the stem cell replacement (bone marrow transplant) was amazingly successful! A CT scan taken this last Tuesday is very promising that the tumors have been eliminated! (Note: a PET scan will be taken in about two months to determine the presence of or elimination of cancer)

Honestly, this was a much more difficult and painfull process than I had anticipated. I appreciate your faithful prayers, kind visits to the hospital, and continued support of my family.

I have seen in reality the concept taught by Nephi about faith, power and deliverance in my life and in yours. (1 Ne.1:20) The tender mercies of the Lord have been evident in our lives daily.

Now, recuperation at home to build strength - and maybe a little hair!

Happy Birthday! Stem Cell Transplant Complete!

2009-02-28T17:00:00.000-08:00

It's my Happy Birthday! On Friday, the Huntsman Cancer Hospital bone marrow transplant team infused nine bags of my stem cells into my body in about two hours. It was fascinating to see the liquid nitrogen cannister holding the nine bags of frozen stem cells. They were then warmed up to 39 degrees (about the consistency of a slushy) and then infused intravenously. The slushy stem cells were cold as they went through my body. Now that the high dose chemotherapy has eliminated my bone marrow, the stem cells will fight to transplant onto the remaining marrow. That normally takes 10-14 days. In the cancer treatment world, this day is considered a new birthday with the hope that a new immune system (wihtout resultant cancer) is created. That is our hope and prayer for deliverance!

A Lone Cougar In The Land of the Utes

2009-02-24T11:07:00.000-08:00

I am now "residing" at the University of Utah Hospital - lots of nurses with "U" monogrammed patches and lots of "U" red drink bottles. A lone Cougar in the land of the Utes. I checked in last Friday and immediately started high dose chemotherapy (BEAM). Because the units are considered "clean" rooms, I cannot wander the halls....course that would be difficult dragging my chemo in tow.

BEAM will continue until tomorrow, then one day of rest, and then the stem cell transplant this Friday. The goal is that the chemo will kill any resultant cancer disease and that the stem cells will graft to the bone marrow - and create a new internal "me."

I am so grateful for the wonderful emails, letters, text messages, phone calls and visits from family and friends. Your encouragement makes a huge difference in my day. We continue to pray for the miracle - faith, power, deliverance!

BEXXAR and BEAM (Interesting, right?)

2009-02-06T08:44:00.000-08:00

The results of the last PET scan indicated that the tumor had not decreased further in size after the third and fourth Line 2 chemo treatments. As a result, my oncologists are recommendng a new treatment starting today: BEXXAR, which is a chemo treatment containing radioactive isotopes which target the tumor. I will have another treatment next Friday and will become fully radioactive - glow in the dark! I will be required to stay at least six feet from another person!

On February 20, I will enter the University of Utah Bone Marrow Transplant Unit for BEAM (high dose chemotherapy) with stem cell replacement (bone marrow transplant). My stay there will be 3-4 weeks. Visitors are allowed.

I am so grateful to members of the Cascade Fourth Ward and all of you who fasted on our behalf this past Sunday. We feel the power of your faith and prayers. We feel the tender mercies of the Lord every day. I love you all.

You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown!

2009-02-04T14:29:00.000-08:00

I have not posted for a very long time because of the sickness and death of my nephew, Matt Hill. We have been grief-stricken. Matt was more like a younger brother than a nephew. We worked together at Provo Theatre Company for over two years. He played Charlie Brown in the PTC Production of "You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown." In many ways, Matt was Charlie Brown in real life. Matt was the epitome of fun and adventure - always learning, always finding fun things to do, the perfect film critic and a wonderful actor and acting teacher. And he was always gentle and kind. Matt died of complications from testicular cancer and leaves behind his wonderful wife of one year - Liz. We love you, Matt. You're a good man, Charlie Brown!

Another PET Scan on Wednesday / Fourth Chemo Treatment Finished

2009-01-19T10:10:00.000-08:00

This coming Wednesday, I will have my fourth PET scan to determine further progress against the tumor. If satisfactory, then hospitalization for high dose (BEAM) chemotherapy and stem cell replacement. I appreciate your prayers that the tumor will have further decreased in size.

Last week, I finished the fourth treatment of RICE chemotherapy with a two-day hospital. Thanks again for your support.

Joseph Smith on Courage

2009-01-14T21:00:00.000-08:00

"Never get discouraged, whatever difficulties might surround you. If you were sunk in the lowest pit of Nova Scotia, and all the Rocky Mountains piled on top of you, you ought not to be discouraged, but hang on, exercise faith and keep up good courage and you should come out on top of the heap." (George A. Smith's journal, quoted by Preston Nibley in Church News, 12 Mar 1950, p. 16)

Happy New Year: Stem Cell Collection Completed!

2009-01-01T13:39:00.000-08:00

Wonderful news! I completed all the stem cell collection and did it all before New Years Eve. We started last Saturday morning at 7:00 a.m., returned Sunday, starting collection all day Monday and Tuesday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. We collected over 5million stem cells. Next week, I will spend three days at Huntsman Cancer Hospital for the final (fourth) chemo infusion. Then, sometime this month, I will check into the hospital for a three-four weeks stay for the final high dose chemo with stem cell transplant. The process moves on and we are grateful for your faith, prayers and kindness. Happy New Year!

PET Scan Results Back...High Dose Chemo Continues...Every Temple in the World!

2008-12-17T16:41:00.000-08:00

This morning, my oncologist, Dr. Martha Glenn delivered the results from yesterday's PET scan: the tumor has decreased in size sufficiently to continue with the Line 2 High Dose Chemotherapy. This is great news! I finished another outpatient chemo treatment today and enter the hospital tomorrow for two more days. Another three day treatment will begin on January 6....then four-five weeks of hospitalization for the final high-dose treatment and stem cell transplant. We are so grateful that the tumor is smaller. Thank you for your faith, prayers and support! "Fresh courage take...."

Also, several friends joined together last week to telephone every LDS temple in the world and place my name on the prayer rolls! And they are calling again every two weeks. Other friends placed my name on the prayer rolls at the local Lutheran Church and the Salt Lake City synagogue. What wonderful friends you are...and I am overwhelmed by this amazing example of charity!

PET Scan On Tuesday!

2008-12-14T15:39:00.001-08:00

I have another PET scan scheduled on Tuesday to determine progress from the line 2 chemo treatments. If the tumor has been sufficiently reduced in size, then we will continue with high dose chemotherapy and stem cell replacement in January. If not, treatments would stop. We are praying that the tumor has been reduced significantly! Thanks for your faith, prayers and support.

Just Finished Second Round High Dose Chemo

2008-12-06T10:17:00.000-08:00

Monday, Wednesday (outpatient) and Thursday, Friday (inpatient) were spent this week to finish the second round of high dose chemo. I don't have any hair left...bald again...and looking like Stephen Covey! I tolerated it all with only one nausea episode. Kathy and I had a wonderful and peaceful time at the hospital. We even watched one of the two TV shows we like: "The Office." (The other is "24" which we anxiously await in January). I appreciate all of your emails, concern and prayers of faith for the power of deliverance! Love to you all, Rich

Every Prayer Roll In Every Temple In The U.S.

2008-11-29T12:44:00.000-08:00

This week, one of my closest friends informed me that he and his wife telephoned every LDS temple in the United States(I believe 50)and placed my name on the prayer rolls. I cried when I was informed and cry as I write this. What a magnificent and charitable gift!

Nicole and Adam Sealed on October 24

2008-11-28T16:05:00.001-08:00

Sorry to be delayed with this post. So much was happening, including doctor's visits and chemo. We are so blessed that Nicole and Adam were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple on October 24. Nicole is one of Heavenly Father's most righteous and talented daughters. Adam is extraordinary in every way. Not only has Nicole gained a wonderful husband and companion, but Kathy and I have gained a wonderful son!

High Dose Chemotherapy Underway!

2008-11-14T19:58:00.002-08:00

The biopsy results came back on Tuesday and confirmed the PET scan report that there is still active lymphoma (cancer). I met with my oncology lymphologist on Thursday and started high dose chemotherapy that afternoon (outpatient) and checked into the Huntstman Cancer Center this morning for a 24 hour inpatient infusion of high dose chemotherapy. This methodology will be repeated every two weeks for four visits. During that time, the doctors will harvest my stem cells. Then I will be admitted to the hospital in January for three-four weeks for the final very high dose chemotherapy and then stem cell replacement and recovery.

This is the first time I have been hospitalized since my deliverance from spinal meningitis in Brazil in 1971 - 37 years ago. This hospital is amazing...the rooms are like hotel suites...beautiful furniture and cabinetry...beautiful view of SLC and the SLC Temple. The doctors and nurses are consummate professionals. I will be home tomorrow afternoon.

Thank you for your support, prayers of faith and love. "Fresh courage take, the Lord will never us forsake." ("Come, Come Ye Saints")

Biopsy on Friday, November 7

2008-11-09T13:46:00.000-08:00

My biopsy was uneventful at the University of Utah Medical Center. But, the results will not be available until Tuesday! Patience is not one of my natural traits...so I am learning this God-like trait day by day. I will report further when the biopsy results are available. Thank you for your fasting, prayers of faith, and love.

Also, many of you know or had heard me speak of my great Brazilian friend and convert, Sirdar Guimaraes. He is like a second father to me. He is in intensive care suffering from pulmonary fibrosis at age 83. We pray for his recovery.

Appreciation to Members of our LDS Ward

2008-11-02T19:23:00.000-08:00

My deepest gratitude to members of the Cascade Fourth Ward for fasting today on my behalf. You are examples of great charity and I am moved by your sacrifice and expressions of love on my behalf.

..."know thou, my son, that all these things shall give thee experience and shall be for thy good." (DC 122:7)

2008-10-31T14:36:00.001-07:00

We just returned from the Huntstman Cancer Institute and the PET scan. Unfortunately, it appears that most of the tumor was killed by the chemotherapy and radiation, but another growth has appeared near my diaphram. In order to confirm the PET scan (because inflammation and infection can cause hot spots), a biopsy will be performed next week. If the biopsy is negative, then I will be in remission. However, if, as the doctor believes, the biopsy will be positive, then I will undergo high dose chemotherapy with stem cell transplant. This procedure is highly dangerous and requires 4-5 weeks of hospitalization.

I am so grateful for your prayers and fasting - evidencing your faith unto power unto deliverance. I do believe, as Joseph Smith was tutored by the Lord, that "all these things shall give thee experience and shall be for thy good. The Son of Man hath descended below them all. Art thou greater than he?"

We are praying for a negative biopsy next week.

PET Scan This Friday!

2008-10-27T21:35:00.000-07:00

I am so grateful for your prayers of faith. This Friday, October 31, I will have a PET Scan to determine whether the radiation treatments have been effective. The results will be delivered that same morning. We are praying for a negative PET scan. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers of support.

FINALLY A VACATION!

2008-10-01T14:20:00.000-07:00

Finally a glorious vacation after chemo and radiation since March! At the last minute, I decided to join Kathy in NYC for Natalie's surgery. We ate the great hamburgers at Shake Shack (Danny Meyer's Madison Park gourmet hamburger spot), witnessed a beautiful production of "South Pacific" at Lincoln Center with the incomparable Paulo Sotz (a Brazilian Broadway star) and joined Peggy and Simon Hodson for Italian food in Greenwich Village.

Then, off to Bar Harbor, Maine (pronounced by the locals: Bah Hahbah)for a fall leaves biking, hiking, sailing, kayaking, lobster-eating trip with family and friends. We drove through the forecasted hurricane (the first in 17 years in Maine) which never materialized. This is also the home of Acadia National Park, the only national park in New England and glorious with the fall leaves, waterfalls, carriage trails and stunning ocean views.

Right now, I'm looking out our hotel room sliding glass door at lobster boats, lobstermen and their traps full of lobsters. The town is quaint, beautiful and quintessential New England fishing town. The lobster rolls (toasted bread with buttered lobster) are amazing!

Radiation Completed!

2008-09-18T21:21:00.001-07:00

Hurray! I graduated from radiation! Yesterday was my 24th and final radiation treatment. The wonderful radiation nurses took my picture with a graduation cap and my hospital gown, delivered a graduation certificate, candy and a blanket. On October 31, I will have another PET scan to monitor my progress. We are praying for a negative PET scan and complete remission. Thanks again for your faith, prayers and encouragement!

Fuzzy Hair and Radiant!

2008-08-26T19:51:00.001-07:00

Sorry for the delay in giving this update. I now have fuzzy hair (no more chemotherapy!) and I am radiant....receiving radiation treatments every weekday. I just finished my tenth treatment today and have fourteen more to go! The huge radiation machine shoots from seven different directions and takes about fifteen minutes to complete. Fortunately, I have been blessed with no nausea and just a little fatigue. Thank you for your emails, letters, love, faith and prayers.

No Biopsy, CT Scan Results, Radiation Begins Next Week

2008-08-06T18:36:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all for your faith, prayers and fasting for a negative result on the needle biopsy. Last week Thursday, the radiologist was unable to do the needle biopsy because he could not find the tumor using an ultrasound. My doctor's explanation: either the tumor was further reduced in size and could not be picked up on the ultrasound, or it was hiding behind the spleen or the kidney. Our faith and hope was, and is, that the tumor had been further reduced in size.

This week Tuesday, our hope was confirmed by a CT scan, which shows that the tumor tissue is even smaller than it appeared on the PET scan and the earlier CT scan. We now pray that the tumor does not contain any cancerous tissue.

Radiation begins next Wednesday with 21 rounds over 30 days. Then, another PET scan will be taken four to six weeks later to determine progress.

We have strong faith that I will go into remission due to the tender mercies of the Lord. We appreciate your concern, faith and prayers.

Needle Biopsy Thursday, July 31 - Need Your Faith and Prayers

2008-07-29T21:11:00.000-07:00

My doctors have scheduled a needle biopsy of the remaining tumor on Thursday of this week. The PET scan (which measures metabolic activity) showed a small "hot spot" in the area of my remaining tumor. However, PET scans can also falsely read inflammation in the same area. So, to be sure, the doctors want to take the needle biopsy and exmamine it under a microscope. If it is negative (showing no cancerous activity), then I will begin radiation as scheduled. If it is positive (showing some cancerous activity), then the doctors recommend high dose chemotherapy with stem cell replacement.

Obviously, I continue to need your faith and prayers. This biopsy will be the most important test of this long journey. Let's pray that it comes back negative. Thanks for your support, faith and prayers.

Hill Family Reunion - Survivor!

2008-07-08T18:57:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday and Sunday, July 5 and 6, the Hill Family reunited in Spanish Fork and Provo...all 170 or so of us. The reunion theme was "Survivor" which coincides with my personal theme for 2008. It was a blast - expertly organized by nieces Kari and Kim! A family reunion where you didn't want it to ever end. As daughter Kara appropriately queried: "Can we do this all week?" The photo above is with the patriarch of the Hill family, my brother Sheril Hill, now 75 years young. Looking more and more like Heber Farley! (Polaroid photo courtesy of Nicole Hill - nicolehill.blogspot.com)

Nicole Hill Honored As A "Yummie" by Salt Lake City Magazine

2008-06-28T07:10:00.000-07:00

In this month's edition of Salt Lake Magazine, our daughter Nicole was honored to be named a "Yummie" - Young Upwardly Mobile Mormon. This article captures the essence of Nicole as a renaissance woman. Also, this month, Nicole was invited to be a guest lecturer at the Creative Photography Retreat in San Jose, California, August 28-30. We are very proud of Nicole, her amazing talent (photographer, chef, you name it) and her entrepreneurial spirit!

Sixth and Final Chemo Treatment

2008-06-27T16:25:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, I had my sixth and FINAL chemo treatment. My wonderful sister, Vicki, accompanied and entertained me with adventurous, heart-breaking, uplifting and spiritual photographs of her life as an LDS missionary in Nigeria and Liberia. Coincidentally (or maybe as Elder Maxwell states: "In the Gospel, there are no coincidences") a visiting doctor was observing from Seoul, Korea. This, after Nina entered the MTC last week to learn Korean. All of my blood tests looked great. Next steps: a PET scan (which examines all metabolic functions), and then in three weeks, I start one month of radiotherapy. Faith, Power, Deliverance!

Natalie Hill Performs At The Tony Awards

2008-06-22T11:01:00.000-07:00

Our daughter, Natalie, fulfilled a life-long dream by performing at The Tony Awards at Radio City Music Hall in New York City last Sunday! We are so excited for her! Natalie plays Cha-Cha De Gregorio and understudies Rizzo in the Broadway cast of "Grease," which was nomimated for Best Revival of a Musical. This photo is of the entire cast outside Radio City Music Hall. Natalie is in the center, white sweater and amazing glasses. Brava, Natalie!!

Nina Hill Enters LDS Missionary Training Center

2008-06-18T10:09:00.001-07:00

Today, Nina (our daughter)entered the LDS Missionary Training Center to learn the Korean language. In 10 weeks, she will leave for Pusan, South Korea and serve there for 15 months. We are thrilled! Nina has been planning a mission since she was a little girl. She is extraordinarily well-prepared and will be a "light" to the Korean people. What an adventure and spiritual journey! For those interested in writing her, the address is: Sister Kristina Michelle Hill, MTC Mailbox #316, KOR-BUS 0901, 2005 North 900 East, Provo, UT 84604-1793.

CT Scan II, Miracles by Howard W. Hunter

2008-06-05T15:20:00.000-07:00

"As a result of the many miracles in our lives, we should be more humble and more grateful, more kind and more believing. When we are personal witnesses to these wonders which God performs, it should increase our respect and love for him; it should improve the way we behave. We will live better and love more if we remember that. We are miracles in our own right, every one of us, and the resurrected Son of God is the greatest miracle of all. He is, indeed, the miracle of miracles, and every day of his life gave evidence of it. We should try to follow after him in that example."

Howard W. Hunter. "The God That Doest Wonders." Ensign, May 1989, 15.

Great News! CT Scan Results In

2008-06-05T14:20:00.001-07:00

Great news! Tuesday night, I had a CT scan. The results are wonderful! Originally, my tumor was 12 cm. Now, it is only 3 cm...about 1/4 of its original size. The doctors are ecstatic, but not more than I am! My fifth chemo treatment went well yesterday, but I have mild pneumonia. So, it's stay at home for a while and take antibiotics. But, we are beating this tumor and with your faith and prayers - will be delivered. Thanks for your faith, prayers and love. (1 Ne. 1:20)

On the home front, Kathy continues to rack up awards at Paul Mitchell - The School (Best Student, Most Product Sales, etc and she even has her own reserved parking space). Nina is busily preparing for her mission to Busan, Korea. She enters the MTC on June 18, with her farewell on June 15 at 1:00 pm at the Orem Cascade Fourth Ward Chapel. Nicole has been invited to present on photography at a national convention in San Diego. Kara graduated from Orem High School with wonderful kudos from her teachers. Natalie is visiting us for a little over 48 hours starting next Monday morning. Ali is at EFY at BYU. And my sister, Vicki (and her husband Neil) just returned this week from 22 months in Nigeria and Liberia on an LDS mission. Vicki is pictured above with me at her Homecoming Party. Wonderful week for the Hill family!

In-N-Out Burger and St. George

2008-05-27T21:05:00.000-07:00

Over the Memorial Day weekend, we ventured to St. George for two purposes - the best hamburgers on the planet and desert sun. We ate at In-N-Out Burger and found moderate sun every day. Kathy, Nicole, Nina, Kara and Ali were on the hamburger team....and we enjoyed every tasty morsel. The closest In-N-Out Burger is now only 256 miles from our front door!

Guima's Surgery Successfull

2008-05-24T15:16:00.001-07:00

Guima's surgery was completely successful and now he is home recuperating. According to his daughter, Eliana, he is singing and laughing for the first time in a long time. We look forward to Guima and his wife, Yolanda coming to the United States for a visit as soon as he has fully recuperated. Thanks for your prayers on his behalf!

Sirdar Guimaraes Surgery

2008-05-18T13:25:00.001-07:00

Many of my family and friends are familiar with the story and life of Sirdar Guimaraes from Porto Alegre, Brazil. It was his faith, his blessing, through the Lord's priesthood power, that I was miraculously cured of terminal spinal meningitis on my mission. I owe my life to the Lord and Brother Guimaraes.

Now he needs our faith. Guima - as we affectionately call him - will have prostate surgery tomorrow. He is 82 years old. Please join me in praying for a successul surgery and full recovery for this truly faithful man.

Birthday No. 57

2008-05-18T10:51:00.000-07:00

We celebrated my 57th birthday yesterday. Wow, it's hard to believe I am encroaching on 60! Thank you to family and friends who sent such encouraging and loving birthday messages on this website and my personal email. I love you all. I now more fully appreciate the importance of the passage of a birthday. It means we have lived another year on this beautiful earth. We should truly celebrate that fact!

Fourth Chemotherapy Treatment

2008-05-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my fourth chemo treatment. Only two more chemo treatments left over the next six weeks and then 21 days straight of radiation treatments. Everything went well. The doctors were amazed that I have experienced very little fatigue and nausea, and that I have not missed any work days except for treatments. All of this because of your faith and the tender mercies of the Lord!

After the chemo treatment, Sheril (my brother who lovingly drives me to the Hunstman Cancer Institute) and I gorged ourselves on Alaskan King Crab legs at Market Street Broiler. That is heaven!

In two weeks, I undergo another CT scan to review our progress in destroying the tumor. Thanks again for your love, faith and prayers.

Prayer Rolls In Temples Around The World

2008-05-09T15:13:00.001-07:00

A special thanks to friends and family who put my name on the prayer rolls in various LDS temples around the world. Through emails and telephone calls, I have been informed of the following temples: Porto Alegre, Brazil; Sao Paulo, Brazil; Accra, Ghana (my sister Vicki and her husband Neil are serving an LDS mission in Liberia); Aba, Nigeria (where my friend Pres. Taylor Harper is the temple president); Laie, Hawaii; Kona, Hawaii; New York City and almost all Wasatch Front and Southern California temples. Wow! Thank you! Faith, Power, Deliverance! (1 Ne. 1:20)

Third Chemo Treatment

2008-04-23T18:12:00.000-07:00

My third chemo treatment was today at Huntsman Cancer Center. My good friend, Jeff Kimball volunteered to drive in place of my usual driver, my brother, Sheril Hill, who is on vacation. Why isn't Kathy driving me? She wants to but we decided that she needs to graduate from Paul Mitchell - The School and every day gone is another day that delays graduation. This program requires a certain fixed number of attendance hours.

The good news! My LDH level (cellular activity test which shows cancer growth) is now 600 (normal is between 400-600). LDH was at 1000 when my first blood test was taken. This means that the cancer growth has slowed down significantly. The tumor has shrunk enough that I no longer feel any pain! However, I still have a long way to go be be cured of cancer.

Dr. Glenn informed me today that a CT-Scan will be done after the next chemo treatment to determine progress against the tumor.

Thank you for your faith and prayers.

Spring Break at Disneyland (Part Two)

2008-04-20T19:07:00.001-07:00

Regarding my health: At Disneyland, I was the last one who wanted to go back to the hotel. My only pain was due to blisters on my feet. Other than that, no nausea, no fatigue...but lots of hair loss. Next chemo treatment: this week Wednesday.

Spring Break at Disneyland

2008-04-15T22:07:00.001-07:00

The entire family, sans Natalie (sorry you couldn't leave Broadway for this vacation, Nat), went to Disneyland for Spring Break. Great time at Disneyland and California Adventure! My college summer job "It's A Small World" was closed for refurbishing. The highlight was watching my little princesses talking to the Disney princesses at Ariel's Princess Breakfast!

2008-04-03T20:27:00.000-07:00

Update: I received my SECOND chemotherapy treatment today at Huntsman Cancer Hospital in Salt Lake City....with no side effects. The doctors indicate that the HDH count (the toxins that emit from the tumor) are down well over 60% already. I plan to work tomorrow and throughout next week. Again, my immense gratitude for your thoughts and prayers of faith.

Welcome

2008-03-31T20:32:00.000-07:00

My first chemotherapy treatment was on March 16, 2008 at Huntstman Cancer Institute. Gratefully, I have experienced few side effects - but my hair is falling out quickly this week. Kathy shaved my hair short. I hope to emulate the look of my favorite author and friend, Dr. Stephen R. Covey. I have been able to work at the law office every day except treatment days. Next chemo treatment: April 3.