Please forgive this somewhat boiler plate message as I am attempting to pass the word of my health condition to family, friends, and groups in one effort and at one time. In the past two days I have met with my oncologist and pulmonary disease specialist. In answer to the much sought after question of - how long? - they were both pretty noncommittal. This I fully understand because in the last few years, we had the blessing of enjoying our brother-in-law about 4 years beyond the expected after exploratory surgery found his liver cancer non-operable. And, then there was a friend who was told 6 months - and was gone 6 DAYS later. So when I say up to a year, is a best guess with more factors to add to the information that might increase that - or maybe decrease. I hope that you can accept my outlook as being the best answer. I will do every thing I possibly can to live these undefined number of days, weeks, months or years, in a lifestyle that is as comfortable as it can possibly be. The length of time is not something that is in the control of anybody, or anything, found on this earth. The other question that is of extreme importance - metastasis. Yes, there is evidence of cancer cells in other parts of the body, but not at aggravated levels at this time. The future holds those answers - and some treatment may assist in destroying those cancers. This morning my oncologist told me about new drugs - Tarceva and Zometa - that have proven useful in situations similar to mine. She is seeking medicare approval for these treatments. That will take a few weeks, but the condition of my lungs, because of the pneumonia and blood clots, prohibit the therapy until further healing takes place. So, we’re in wait and see on this issue. If you are going to wish me well, or say prayers for me, please do not ask for more than the most comfortable last days that I can possibly have. Since this is as headed - “An early farewell” - I want to get my thanks to you, while I still can. I thank you for the support that you have given me through the N Scale Forum at Trainboard .com. Thank you for the guidance and gifts that you have given to me as a member of your group. Sometimes the only thing I had to do was search a need for information and find an immediate answer to my quest, without actual contact with the answer provider. Those situations are countless. I could name specific members who have assisted or gifted me, but the fear of missing someone leaves with the choice to just say "thank you" - you know who are! Please know Joan and I are as accepting of this news as we can be. We welcome your contact. So long for now. All things permitting, you will hear from me again - in normal posts. No more of the emotional stuff! Bye! Don Donald Malm dmac@malmnotary.com In God We Trust
Don.... Accepting the inevitable isnt always easy. I hope your 80 years on this planet was filled with fond memories. When the time comes...may your hand be at the throttle...enjoying your model railroading hobby. Our prayers are with you and Joan sir. .
Don, I hope I can get 80 good years and have the positive attitude you have shown. We are all one big family here on Trainboard and you have my prayers for a peaceful and comfortable life. Green lights all the way with your hand on a throttle of Gold.
Don, you already have the best medicine possible, acceptance and lack of denial. I pray that you have a longer and more comfortable life than you could possibly hope for or dare to expect. God Speed. :angel2:
Don I pray that the remainder of your days be comfortable, and some of the most enjoyable days of your life. God Bless to you and yours Glen
My wish to you that the Lord grants you a long and peaceful time. And as long as you know the Lord you will live forever. God Bless you and your family.....Mike
don i dont even know you but looks like youve built a community of loyal friends and supporters around here. i pray that you may not only find peace and rest but also if you havent that you would seek the Lord and his grace upon the cross. may god continue to bless you and your family as it sounds like he has. hopefully we will hear from you soon! ill continue to pray for you!
Thank you for saying "goodbye". You have had time for closure. It is a blessing to those who love you. If you meet my first wife on the other side, please give her a hug for me. She was my one and only, my all, my everything. After 5 years with her she to was given the time, (13 months), to say goodbye and I feel blessed for that opportunity. There is naught that I can say That will relieve you of the pain Nothing I can do To smooth the plain Be at peace Those who remain Feel the warm suns rays Life goes on Covet the memory With each breath you take Remember the every Moment you shared All of the history Feel the smiles from beyond Fair thee well
Don, you and Joan are in my thoughts and prayers. Just being able to face your future and all of its uncertainties is a gift. I am going through something similar with a friend of mine right now who just got done fighting colon cancer only to find out he now has liver cancer. I hope you get some time with your family, your hobby, and your friends, and are able to treasure those moments.
I guess its times like these that make one stop and take stock in what is really important in life. Sure we love trains, but lets face it, here at TB its really about the people. Don, you are a shining example of that. I cant really say much more than that that hasnt already been said. Bless you and yours.
