Wednesday, July 12
Yesterday, Laurie and I took a huge emotional step on this most incredible journey – I entered HOSPICE CARE here in Eugene.
After our early Sunday morning emergency room visit in Bellingham, we immediately consulted with Dr. Beer’s office. They did an exhaustive review of my case history, in particular, the recent rapid progression of my disease. Their strong suggestion was to cancel yesterday’s consult with the radiation oncologist and abandon all future chemotherapy infusions! Instead they offered to assist us setting up hospice care.
The reality is that the metastases in my liver are causing serious havoc and acute liver failure is expected. Additionally the tumors are now showing up in many other abdomen sites. I am feeling slightly worse day by day. Alas, the new prognosis for my time on this planet is weeks instead of months.
We continue to be grateful for your faithful, perennial support shown us throughout this journey. We are painfully aware of the frustrations of not knowing what to say or how to help.
Laurie and I have experienced a few days home alone of the highest quality – our bond continues to strengthen despite the prognosis. If any of you feel the necessity for a short visit to say our final good byes we are open to receiving family and friends starting on Friday.
I am truly amazed at how quickly things are changing for us!
I am overcome with love and gratitude for you. You played such a huge role in my trajectory into higher education and I am endlessly thankful for your passion and teaching. I’m hoping to move back to Eugene soon (although no date is set quite yet), and can’t wait to drive past Cal Young, or walk the ribbon trail, or go to my dad’s softball games, and remember all of the times you made my day seeing you at those places. A teacher who became a friend, who will always feel like family… thank you!!
Mikey, I have always thought of you as the “Pillar of Positive and Fun”. I’ll not easily forget those Country Fair days, climbing “expeditions” and hearing about all your worldly and not so worldly adventures. I find it ironic that someone with such a zest for life as you would end up with this dreaded disease. You and Laurie have really done a wonderful job at facing the worst these past 16 months and you are certainly leaving this earth in style. May your journey be as painless as possible. Our hearts are with you.
We are so sad Mike. Nicole will do special chanting and has asked a good friend who is a Buddhist monk to chant to help with your peace and calm. Love Erick and Nicole
As always Mike ,you amaze me with you grace and acceptance of reality. Throughout this journey you have ,as in the rest of your life , considered the feelings of others .
The countless number of students and people you have touched and influenced attest to your greatness. Enjoy these last days ,weeks or months . I know you are at peace.
Mike,
Your fiery passion has warmed and brightened so many of our lives. Your light has shone us so many new ways to see things: math; adventure; friendship; life; relationships; joy; you name it.
Your light is getting dimmer, but it will never go out. You have shared so much with so many, and have kindled so many new fires within us. Your patience, mentorship and enthusiasm have greatly broadened my horizons with respect to rock climbing, learning new languages, traveling, enjoying retirement and just learning to look at things from different perspectives. I know that many others have similar stories. With so many newly kindled fires, your light can only multiply now. (And as you would remind others, multiplication is *arithmetic* and not *math*.)
Not only have I loved climbing with and learning from you, but I have always delighted in the conversations we’d have on our approaches, our getaways, and in between. The same goes for our bike rides and car/skiing outings and just plain hanging out or taking a walk.
Thanks for all the leads, amigo. And thanks for being so real. Peace to you!
Much love,
Bob
Mike–
You have been an inspiration for me the entire time that I’ve had the pleasure of knowing you. You inspire me in the realms of physicality and strength. I’ve also always appreciated your constant positive attitude and especially the way you direct it at people around you….your ability to engage with anyone. Due to your example, I’ve been able to incorporate some degree of these qualities in my life, and you will always be with me because of that….you are not going away.
Much Love, Your Friend;
Joseph
Laurie and Mike,
You are held in love. You are loved ones of countless people (and a few animals).
And the love you have with each other, love without space between you.
Wishing you ease.
Love, Judit
I have only known two people in my life that I can honestly say every time I saw them they always, and I mean always had a smile on. My uncle Bob, and you! I always felt better after seeing you.
Love Jay