Kathy's Diary

"We only have what we give." - Isabel Allende

"Everything will be alright in the end. If it is not alright, it is not the end!" - Irish Blessing

"If I can bring peace, joy or happiness to even one other life today, it has been a very good day!" - Kathy Raynor

"Fairies are seen not through the eyes' but through the heart!" - Anonymous

BACKGROUND

Dear Family & Friends,

As some of you knew, Kathy, was having 2 cervical fusions on Friday 12/21. She'd been having some issues with coordination and weakness in her arms and legs (and had fallen a couple of times). As expected, she picked the best neurosurgery group in the area -- and docs she has known for a long time. Her surgery went really well, but as she was getting dressed to go home, she lost mobility in her right arm and leg, they rushed her across the street from the ambulatory surgery center to Carolinas Medical Center and reopened the surgery site, thinking blood had clotted around the nerves in her neck. They did not any clots. CT and MRI that night revealed that she had bled from her brain (left side, near the motor function area). Kathy spent the weekend through Christmas in Neuro ICU while they took some more pictures and had brain surgery on Wed 12/26 to relieve the pressure in her head.

Kathy was diagnosed with brain cancer. She moved to inpatient rehabilitation on Wed 01/02 and is improving daily. Her day is full with 4-6 hours of therapy a day. Her rehab team is amazing and even have her in the pool 2-3 times a week. We are happy to rep ort that every part of her right side is now working and no longer "vacationing"!

On 1/ 14, she started a 6 week course of radiation and a single pill chemotherapy. We will know more about her prognosis and the first round of treatment and a new set of scans & pictures.. We've settled on the "each patient is different" approach and Kathy is really driven to get better. Everyone is staying very positive and, as expected, Kathy is very focused on recovery!

As you can understand, Kathy really wants to keep her medical information private and managed. We will use this site to provide updates on her progress and improvement and Kathy plans to post about her day-to-day activities as often as possible.

We are so grateful for all the love and support you all have provided already! Thank you so much!

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1/14/13 Day 1 - A Great Start

Kathy Raynor | 02:36PM EST on Mon. Jan 14, 2013

Had a great morning. 2 hours in pool with regained control of right ankle and toes! Did jumping jacks and flutter kick in pool!! Showe­red independently!

Meds went well - zofran, the nausea medicine, - made me VERY frien­dly. Jeff said I sayin­g "Hi" to everyone on the trip to radiation. It made me mellow so the mask was comfortable and I drifted while the treatment happened. The staff was warm friendly and very assuring! I am back in my room waiting impatiently for lunch. I am starving and that’s good!!

OT this after­noon 1-3 and then nap. Sent Jeff home to nap too!!! It's been a good day! Treatment 1 done!! 29 to Go! :-D

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1/16/13 Top of the morning!

Cori Haden | 04:11PM EST on Wed. Jan 16, 2013

From KKR: Great night sleep and feel really awake this morning following Monday and Tuesday Zofran drunk! I think the dose is correct now.

Big news of the morning - I fed myself breakfast (yogurt, fruit and oatmeal) with just my right hand! Not a pretty sight but immensely gratifying­!! They offered a grown up bib but I resisted, I got most of it in my mouth!!

They have approved me to stay to Jan 30th to get stairs, strength and conditioning at 100%. I am having all my therapy in the am and then have rad treat­ment at 1:15 each day. After I get to eat at 2:00 and nap 2:30 - 4p. Good sched­ule. Still swimm­ing 2-3 x week and that'­s the best!

Hope you all have as great a day as me!

I love ya all and appre­ciate all that you do to suppo­rt me!

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1/17/13 Terrific Thursday

Kathy Raynor | 07:07AM EST on Thu. Jan 17, 2013

"Today's going to be a good, good day!" 0700 Break­fast; 0800 Recreational therapy; 0830-10:30 Pool/­PT; 10:30­11:30 OT; 11:30 PT walking; 11:45 Snacks and meds; 1:15 radiation therapy; 1:30­2:00 picnic lunch with Jeff; 2:00-3:00 OV with oncologist and nutritionist; 3:30 Starbucks run and 4:00­5:00 nap; 5:00 dinner, friends and family!!!

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1/18/13 Fun Friday

Kathy Raynor | 06:27AM EST on Fri. Jan 18, 2013

Big news of day is that I got my "Green Card" to be minimal assist! This means I can use my wheel chair without the joy of a seat belt/alarm; use the bathroom and shower completely independently; transfer to bed and wheel chair independently and go anywhere I like on campus by just letting unit secretary know. Yesterday, I also got a custom orthotic that braces my right foot and knee is allowing me to walk normally with walker and strengthen my quads. With a few more days of strength and conditioning, we're hoping I can use walker all the time. Got to "run" and get ready for 2 hours in the pool at 0730! At the end of today, I will have 5/30 radiation therapy treat­ments done and it’s been easy! Everyone enjoy your day!

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1/19/13 Sleepy Saturday

Kathy Raynor | 07:16AM EST on Sat. Jan 19, 2013

Looks like I earned a late wakeup call this morning! Slept pretty well and made a 5 hour stretch without someone checking on something!! In order to take some educational classes next week, I have to get extra PT today from 2:30­4:00pm so I will be in the gym. My goal for the next 3 days, is conditioning and strengthening my right knee, quads and ankle so I can begin using the walker all the time! Please give me a call or text if you'd like to stop by this weekend. Hope to get to see a few more of my sweet, sweet friends!!!

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1/20/13 Relaxation Sunday

Kathy Raynor | 06:38AM EST on Sun. Jan 20, 2013

Another good night! Figured out how to relieve the recurring spasms in my very hard working left shoulder. Although Sunday is considered a "free" day, my PT has given me an entire program to work on today stretching and working on strengthening my muscles in my hip, knee and ankle. Chris is stopping by with some Starbucks and a shoulder massage - pampered mom! My big accomplishment yesterday - without thinking I picked up my favorite pen with my right hand and wrote cursive and while not perfect, right hand better than new left hand chicken scratch!! Texting with right hand again!!!! I want to thank my friends at work for the happy greet­ings and best wishe­s pillo­w cases­! I LOVE them! All the staff and visitors have enjoyed reading all the fun notes!!! Good days for quick after work visits next week looks like Monday, Tuesday, Thursday ....give me a call or text before you come to be sure they haven't snuck in an extra therapy!!!

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1/22/13 Happiness is....

Kathy Raynor | 06:37AM EST on Tue. Jan 22, 2013

- spilling maple syrup on your fingers and licking them without thinking about it! - my son knowing exactly where and when to massage my neck and shoulders as they spasm at the end of the day. - date night with Jeff and lots of Cowfish sushi! - laughing out loud on Sunday when Jeff created a coaster ride for me in the driveway hill side. - the incredible talents and skills of the rehab staff to create my very own "Panther's strength and conditioning camp" so I can work with 8-9 therapists a day to be ready to walk out of here on the 30th! - swimming any time - FaceTime with Cori, Jason and Hayley so Hayley and I can play doctor! - being encouraged to eat anything I want, at anytime I want and enjoying every mouthful! - all the love, prayers, well wishes and support you have shown us! We are happy and we are blessed!

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1/23/13 Workout Wednesday

Kathy Raynor | 07:49AM EST on Wed. Jan 23, 2013

Well it looks like the PT won the day - 5 slots for strengthening, gait train­ing, aerobics and mat work. BIG news of the day yesterday is that my hamst­rings and quads decided they are strong enough to work together and as of yesterday afternoon, I can lift my knee. This a huge "step" in gait training a normal step and walking!! I have a custom plastic brace that also helps my ankle and foot work together and yesterday they were able to make some minor adjustments that made a big difference in how every­thing works together. Every night I have "homework" ...after getting a smaller wheelchair yesterday, my homework was to only move the wheelchair using my affected side. I had to foot step with my right foot and use right arm to move the wheels. Two days ago - I couldn't have held onto the wheel and my foot just sat on the rest quietly watching the world go by. I was able heel­toe dig and flex my ankle to roll up and down the hall 3 times!!! The human body is amazing! My right arm actually has a bicep muscle starting to define! I am pretty sure that I will be more fit for the experience than ever before in my life! Watch out Jeff - we be going to the gym every day! Heard there are golf rehab classes at Carolina's Neurosurgery and Spine!!!

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1/24/13 Thursday

Kathy Raynor | 11:12PM EST on Thu. Jan 24, 2013

Today was a really busy day - 4 sessi­ons of PT worki­ng on walking - finally had all the parts moving in coordinated manner. Strength and conditioning: core ball, weights, weight press, floor exercises, bike, arm cycle, and lots of exerc­ises for core and quads­. 3 hours of OT: this inclu­des anyth­ing you do for your daily routine: feeding, dressing, hair styling, bathing and then exercise to build my arm muscles and core to help reach and stand and balance. Jeff came and helped with my OT - beach ball volleyball - I made 25 hits without a miss using only the right arm. Recreational therapy included Wii bowling and I got 2 strikes my first tries. Ended the day with a friend bringing shrimp scampi from Mama Ricottas - OMG - amazing! Tomorrow's not too busy - Hoping to get my hair cut sometime in the next couple days!!

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1/25/13 Busted my butt Friday!

Kathy Raynor | 06:03AM EST on Sat. Jan 26, 2013

Friday was the toughest day so far! With 6 hours of therapy focused on core strengthening, balancing including working on my all 4's. Strengthening my shoulders, biceps and triceps, (starting to see some definition!) and lower body strengthening. With the help of Jessica, played catch while kneeling upright on the mat - couldn't have this before all this! Every muscle in my body ached. Celebrate, celebrate 10 radiation treatments done - 20 left! They are going really well. I take an anti-nausea pill (actually half - whole made me punch drunk for 12 hours) an hour before radiation and the targeted chemo pill Temador. The valet takes me from Rehab to the Levine Cancer Institute about 4 city blocks from here inside CMC main complex. My radiation takes 8 minutes - 2 minutes to x-ray for position and 6 minutes of IGRT radiation. I fall asleep on the table everyday about minute 4! It's the first time, I get to lay down from 5-6 am that morning! It's a nice nap, even if its only a cat nap! It's very peaceful, cool and they play my favorite XM music station. Then we rush back, grab a Starbucks on the way and I gobble down lunch. I am ravenous! Hope everyone is warm, safe and only driving if they really have to, be careful!!

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1/28/13 Marathon Monday

Kathy Raynor | 06:13AM EST on Mon. Jan 28, 2013

Good morning! Sorry for not writing. Stayed pretty busy with extra therapy over the weekend and getting everything ready to go home this Wednesday!!! On Friday, I met a gentleman at radiation who had just finished chemo for whatever he is treating. He was having his 1st radiation visit. The Food Network was on and we talked about him being a long haul driver and all the kinds of game we had eaten over the years (think buffalo, bison, quail, ...). He and I went back for our treatment and he was waiting for his ride when I came out to the waiting area. I looked up and he was using a comb on the lining of his fleece jacket. Curious, I asked what he was doing. His reply with a big grin " thought I'd better comb my hair before my wife comes - it just happens to be in the coat and not my head anymore!" There's a positive man! Today, I have lots of PT to increase walking endurance, practice steps and continue on strengthening. I am making lunch for my rehab team to prove I am safe in the kitchen and say "thank you"! And I get " to go to bed" to practice getting up and down from my 29" high bed at home. May like this part best! It's gonna be a good, good day! Thank you all for the wonderful notes, prayers and words of encouragement.

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1/29/­13 11:00pm counting down to home tomorrow

Kathy Raynor | 11:35PM EST on Tue. Jan 29, 2013 hide

Today was an exceptional day! When I first learned my diagnosis and I had complete R hemiparesis, my first thought was I will never be able to sit on the floor and read to Hayley or chase her around on my hands and knees. Sad but fleeting thought as I progressed to more and more recovery. Today, I was able to get down on the floor, kneel and sit Indian style!!!! I crawled on the floor around the exercise tables. It's a small and simple thing that made me so very happy - check out the pictures and giant smile!!

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2/1/13 HOME at last!!!

Kathy Raynor | 11:52AM EST on Fri. Feb 01, 2013

I made it home late Wednesday evening after a full day of evaluations to document my progress over the 28 days in Rehab. - from complete right sided hemiparesis to full use and walking; independent activities of daily living (even had to pass cooking, knife safety, laundry and all kinds if transfers and obstacles - even falling and getting up without help!). I feel like the last month I have had God at my back and I have moved on the wings of the angels!! Yesterday, we worked on a little organization and adaptation of the house space and I went back to Carolina's Rehab for outpatient PT and OT evals. I will have 4 hours of therapy a week plus daily exercises to do at home, We have incorporated the Wii fit and Wii sports into therapy to strengthen my upper body and balance. If you come to visit - be prepared to play with me!!! Today is the half way mark for radiation therapy 15 treatments done and 15 to go!!!!!!! Only bumps have been radiation fatigue in late afternoon and my hair is getting very thin from the type of radiation I am receiving!! Shopping for fun hats starts today! I have discovered that I have a very little head - kid size with a whole lot of hair - now mostly gone! Hope the Easter bonnets and spring baseball caps are cute!! Thank you to everyone for all the cards and messages! Please know that Donations on the status site are for the support of the website and are not required. We will post information over the weekend on how you can contribute to my personal chef program. Please check in over the weekend for more info.

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2/2/13 Happy Groundhog Day

Kathy Raynor | 09:51PM EST on Sat. Feb 02, 2013

Today was a wonderful day! Jeff and I slept in for the first time in years! After a wonderful breakfast together, we got everything unpacked and most things sorted. Chris and Jeff worked really hard to get my shower and bath all safe and useful. I took full advantage and had a wonderfully long private shower (in rehab you almost always have a care partner making sure you are safe). The day continued with pedicures and manicures with friends. Pampering is such fun! Tonight we had a date night that included ribs from Bricktops (yumm) and movies. Tomorrow looks like a quiet day to continue sorting out: Christmas that didn't get opened, decorations that need to go away, lots of health info to review, and of course there's always grocery shopping and laundry. Since we have the biggest TV on the block, I understand we will be sharing it with neighbors and they will bring the Super Bowl party. Looking forward to seeing everyone!!

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2/6/13 Hump Wednesday!

Kathy Raynor | 07:42PM EST on Wed. Feb 06, 2013

I have been really busy going to MD follow up appointments and outpatient rehab. The neurosurgeons both cried yesterday as they have never had someone with hemiparesis recovery all functions within 19 days! I am working on a paper with them and my PT about the value of hydro-therapy and creating new Neuro­pathways. The outpa­tient therapists are working me just as hard as the inpatient therapists. I have been out of the wheelchair since coming home and walking with a walker since last week. Able to do things independently around the house - laundry, folding clothes, cooking simple things with Jeff, cutting and arranging flowers. Today I walked 100 feet with just a cane!!! I was shocked when my PT handed it to me - but I did it!!! They gave me those flex bands today and 21 exercises to do on my "off days" with upper body and arms, quads, hamstrings and every other muscle in my body. I am going to be ready for some sort of body building contest soon! I have my last two radiation treatments of week 4/6 weeks. Looking forward to Feb 22! Shopping for caps this weekend as my hair has thinned considerably. Oh well - the radiation must be working!!!

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2/10/­13 Sunny, sunny Sunday! BIG NEWS....

Kathy Rayno­r | 10:04AM EST on Sun. Feb 10, 2013

Sorry again for my delay in writing. Lots have been happening and all good! Cori, Jason and Hayley are expecting a baby boy Augus­t 16. Cori and Jason, Grammy and Pop-pop, and the Haden's are overwhelmed with joy! Hayley's not exactly sure what a big sister is but her independence as a 2and half year old, means she's probably going to tell you it's not in her plans. We wish Cori and Jason all the best! Walked with a cane independently twice this week and my strength is improving daily. They are working me really hard at rehab plus an aggressive home program 2-3 times/day! Check back later, I have some really fun hat shopping pictures to share! Enjoy your day. I'm off to Target!

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2/11/13 Hat Shopping

Kathy Raynor | 07:55PM EST on Mon. Feb 11, 2013

Due to the radiation, my lush, thick and often commented on hair has almost completely fallen out over the last couple weeks! Please check out some really "cute" hats I found in a local shop. You can let me know your personal favorites! (Didn't purchase any!)

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2/16/13 Chilly Saturday - Snow Flurries Falling

Kathy Raynor | 02:07PM EST on Sat. Feb 16, 2013

Hi everyone! I haven't been napping this last week - been going to many, many Dr. appointments for f/up to inpatient rehab, Neuro surgeons, medical oncologist and radiation oncologist - and dealing with some incredible radiation fatigue that has kicked my butt! Feel great one minute and wiped out 2 minutes later. This week is my last week of the radiation and chemo - yeah!!! - but they are doing what they call a boost approach. I get the same amount of radiation, but it is targeted directly on the tumor instead of a wider area - it can make your brain really angry!. They tell me some have no difficulties and others are significantly affected. I think as easy as it has been, God is in charge of how the week will go! All docs report that I am doing well and they believe the drug and radiation are working because I continue to progress in all my rehab and other than the fatigue, I have no other complaints or symptoms!! Looking forward to Friday and seeing Cori, Jason, Hayley and Jim and Joanne Haden. It will be so good to have them home! Because of my chemo and Cori's pregnancy- she couldn't be near me until I finished the drug. This weekend, I say goodbye to my college roommate and best friend Joyce - a very special care partner and welcome my first friend I met when we moved the Charlotte - Kim - for the next week! I want to thank them and Joanne (Jason's mom) for all the TLC we have received! You are the best care partners ever! Jeff, Chris and Jessica are the best family ever - caring for me, the house and everything else under the sun - especially when I'm not so perky and fun to be with!!! I love you all!

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2/20/13 Over the hump day! Only 2 RT to go!

Kathy Rayno­r | 07:24PM EST on Wed. Feb 20, 2013

Hi everyone! The radiation really did knock me for a loop last week, not only making my little brain angry but created some big side effects! Went back on some low dose steroids Sunday and everything has improved quickly! Only 2 more treatments left and then I get a couple weeks off until the "results show" meantime, I continue PT and OT several times a week. All my strength, conditioning and ability to move around and lifting increasing weights are moving forward towards independence. One of my goal's is to drive and I have to admit with everyone taking me to appointments, my back seat driving skills are finely honed these days! Today, I was moving around the house using the walker and managed to get to the far end of the kitchen only to turn around and discover I had "walked" away from the walker - felt pretty good! Looking forward to having the family with us this weekend to celebrate! Please let me know you all are up to...­I'm bored with my story­!! ;)

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2/24/13 Sunday - What can I do to help Kathy now?

Kathy Rayno­r | 12:47PM EST on Sun. Feb 24, 2013 hide

Oscar Celebrations... and the Oscar goes to me!!! We have celebrated all weekend with the family! Cori, Jason, Hayley, Chris, Jessica and the Haden's all joined us for dinner Friday night. The kids just left for the airport and Cori will be back in early March to have girl's weekend and give Jeff a break! A neighbor even brought me my own chocolate "Oscar"! I do feel like a winner with lots of people to thank and acknowledge and you are included!! Everyone has been asking what they can do to help at this point and there are several things that would be helpful: To meet my special food/ allergies needs, I have hired a personal chef to prepare meals that are high protein and healthy for me and Jeff and ready when I finish therapy. You can contribute to this expense by sending a contribution of your choice (instead of bringing food I may not be able to enjoy) to me at our home address: 3541 Kylemore Court, Charlotte, NC 28210. The other things are letting me know if you are heading to the HT or Target, Walmart, etc check if I need something. The another thing is letting me know if you have any availability for driving me to some appointments if my family can't. I will have more time to visit so calls and visits are more welcome!! Please call but know we'd love to see you!!

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3/3/13 Super Sunny Sunday

Kathy Rayno­r | 01:36PM EST on Sun. Mar 03, 2013

Well, another week has come and gone and I can tell you it's like a whisper in the wind! This week was my first "alone" week without my care buddies watching faithfully over me. While I miss them terribly, it was nice for the first time since Dec 21st to have time to think, organize, nap and do things more on my time and under my own power! I am still making tremendous strides in rehab and am walking without assistive devices at home and to support my new found independence, cooked dinner for Jeff a couple times this week and managed to organize a closet or two and do a few loads of laundry. I love being able to do some normal house­work stuff! I have been lifting weights and doing a daily exercise program at home. Now I am trying to figure out how to get to our gym the days I don't go to rehab so I can use the equipment to build my stamina and aerobic workouts. This week's rehab goal is going up and down my house steps -15 steps - going up is good - going down is still a bit scary!! You really learn to appreciate your balance with this journey! I definitely have more time and would love to hear from you all. Visits, lunch dates and coffee are always available! Thank you all for your ongoing support!!

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3/9/13 It's the little things!!!

Kathy Raynor | 03:54PM EDT on Sun. Mar 10, 2013

Slippers, favorite jeans and grocery shopping! This morning Jeff and I slept in a little - really just planning ahead for day light savings tomorrow. When we got up I just couldn't face putting on my sneakers and brace to have break­fast. Carefully considering all the options, including safely walking around the house and feeling a little more normal - chose my soft, little black ballet slippers - oh how nice they felt while I sipped coffee with my hubby. For the last 60+ days, I have worn soft, stretchy and easy to get in and out of baggy, exercise clothes. Today, I pulled out my favorite black jeans, took a deep breath and prayed I wouldn't be disappointed that they were to big, too small or not practical. They not only fit better than ever but even allowed me add some fun accessories and new black sneakers! Made Jeff smile to see me being me!! The best part of the day came when Jeff and I went to HT to pick up a few things and I was able to push the cart around and pick out exactly what I wanted. As a true "foodie", and careful shopper, it was a little piece of heaven! It definitely is the little things!!! Think about what makes you smile and do it today!!!

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3/13/­13 ...and the results are in!!!

Kathy Raynor | 10:27AM EDT on Thu. Mar 14, 2013

Hi everyone! I have updated the background story above (BELOW) to share the great news that my radiation and chemo treatments have been very successful. I will start the next phase chemo this week and am looking forward to getting out and about and having everyone plan a visit or outing with me!! Thank you all for your prayers, best wishes, emotional support and love. We couldn't have come this far without everyone of you! I am blessed to have you in my life!

STORY HERE

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3/24/­13 Chris proposed and Jessica said "Yes!"

Kathy Raynor | 03:11PM EDT on Sun. Mar 24, 2013 hide

What a wonderful weekend we've had! For anyone that I hadn't told and months of "secret" planning, Chris propo­sed to Jessica on Friday night on the balcony of the Duke Energy building at sunset. She was completely surprised by both the proposal and the entire family waiting for them for cocktails and dinner on the 32nd floor at the Charlotte City Club overlooking the entire city. Toasting them with Chris' grandparents hand painted 50th wedding anniversary champagne glasses, was an emotional and touching moment for all! While Jess had picked out a ring she liked last year, Chris worked with Mr. Smith at Morrison-Smith Jewelers to design the "perfect" engagement ring for wearing everyday and while tending to the athletes at the gym. Hayley said " it's all sparkly Jess!" Please check out the pictures to see the proposal as well as the Duke Energy Center sporting purple lights in honor of Jess's cheer sports teams competing this weekend! Chris has some really good connections in Charlotte. Congratulations and best wishes to them! We love you both!

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3/31/13 Happy Easter

Kathy Raynor | 07:14PM EDT on Sun. Mar 31, 2013

Hope you and your loved ones have had a wonderful holiday! Jeff, Chris, Jess and I had a wonderful morning and brunch together. I am sorry I haven't written much but the last two weeks have been challenging and I didn't want to cast a shadow on the joy of Chris' and Jessica's engagement. Although I finished the first round of the higher dose chemo without immediate side effects, I developed some severe fatigue, a blood clot behind my right knee and a staph infection in my ankle area, mid-thigh and on my face. In addition, the radiation therapy that ended in Feb is still making my hair fall out!?! This continues to make me sad - although the wigs do help and make me laugh out loud when I get to be one of my 4 wig personalities. The antibiotics gave me what my granddaughter calls "Bubble Guppies" in my tummy and had a tough time staying hydrated.. Good news - my blood counts have stayed within normal; I am learning to nap and I finished the antibiotics today!!!! This should be a better week for all! Poor Jeff doesn't know what to do to make me feel better and is really trying so very hard. If you see him, pat him on the back and let him know how much I love him!! Hope you have a great week and send me a note. I love heari­ng from you!!

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4/7/13 Spring has sprung in Charlotte

Kathy Raynor | 02:15PM EDT on Sun. Apr 07, 2013

Well, it's been a crazy weather week with several days of cold, rainy lows of 30 and today heading for 75! We started sitting out on the screen porch only to be driven in by the yellow pollen. It's covering most everything. All our trees are beginning to leaf out and azaleas are starting bloom. I got discharged from OT this week - quess being able to cook and clean and do laundry - along with lifting weights with full range of motion led to my graduation. I am going to miss working with my great OT team. I do get frustrated that when my right arm gets tired, it shakes and that makes it tough to apply makeup or write so Jeff can read the grocery list! I also got discharged from radiation therapy! Unless the tumor starts to grow, no more radiation!­!!! Maybe my hair will start to grow in soon?!? Chris has decided that I need more than 2 hours of physical therapy a week to meet my goal of walking on the beach by mid-May, so he's working with me everyday and I am amazed at what a difference it's making in both my strength and mood. Even though I am tired before we start, I feel 100% better when we finish! Thursday is the start of my next 5 days of chemo - everyone pray that it goes as well as the last time! Don't want or need any set backs! Please write, call or stop by for a visit.. I would love to catch up!

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4/24/13 Wed - on the other side of chemo!

Kathy Raynor | 05:33PM EDT on Wed. Apr 24, 2013

Hi everyone! My last entry was just before I started the next round of chemo and based on my previous experience, thought I would be up, about and writing the following Tuesday or Wednesday! God had a much different plan! I started chemo with some severe side effects from another medication - tummy troubles, so I was a bit dehydrated and feeling poorly to start with. This time, the chemo made me feel like I had severe flu - everything ached and hurt. I slept 16 - 20 hours some days, wasn't interested in food or life!!! I believe I asked Jeff to shoot me at one point. The fatigue was overwhelming and lasted well into this week. It's really tough to "push on" when just trying to brush your teeth feels impossible. This medication that I take for the 5 days once a month, targets the blood supply directly to the tumor and as a toxic agent, makes the brain really angry. The tumor is in the motor corte­x and therefore, when that part gets irritated and angry, I lose motor functions - many that I have worked so hard to regain since January - that part's really scary. They tell me the more it reacts, the better. Things have improved this week; made it to PT, got new sneakers, a new ankle brace that doesn't hurt all the time and went out for a couple hours with a friend. We see my oncologist tomorrow and see what my labs look like and fine out what's next. Please email, call or visit - I miss you all!

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4/30/13 Tuesday Wells Fargo PGA Week

Kathy Raynor | 09:45AM EDT on Tue. Apr 30, 2013

Spring has sprung and we are moving into full fledged summer! The whole family will be here this weekend to enjoy the golf tournament . We will have fun with everyone! Hayle­y got plastic clubs to "practice" My appointment with oncologist was positive. Although I felt miserable, my labs and overall health are improving now that the tummy is happy again. The key, I think is not taking any meds I really don't absolutely need to. With PT this week, I have officially been cleared to use my cane the majority of the time. My hope is to just walk by mid-May so I can go to beach/vacation with minimal equipment. I will go back to doc next Tuesday to check labs, decide together what the dose of chemo will be starting next Thursday (calculated on body mass and I've lost some this month.) My chemo is Thursday 9th through 14th. Please write and let me know what's happening - I need the distraction! I may not have the energy to chat but I love reading the blog!! Have a great week!!! Miss you all!

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5/14/13 Survived next round of chemo - yeah!

Kathy Raynor | 03:49PM EDT on Tue. May 14, 2013

Hi there - it's Tuesday and this round of chemo finished yesterday! Much better than last month - mostly fatigue and not wanting to eat much. Next up, new MRI and ultra sound on Thursday to see how things are progressing. Results next Monday with oncologist. Had enough energy today to start the seasonal closet overhaul. It's taking a bit more time as I have to try everything on - I am finally at the weight I have always wanted to be and that means I'll be getting a few new things. I really need to learn to pace myself - I feel so good in the morning, I try to tackle to much too quickly without resting. They keep reminding me radiation affects the brain for up to 6 months (June - July). My walking continues to improve and I am walking better and better. Last week, I walked on the treadmill - going forward, backwards and even sideways! Got to run (ha-h­a-ha). Will share results next week. We are prepping to go to the beach for a few days with the Haden families. We need some time with family!

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7/16/13 Tuesday - finally stopped raining!

Kathy Raynor | 03:53PM EDT on Tue. Jul 16, 2013

Hi everyone! I posted a new overall update above (BELOW). I know it's been awhile but good news, things have been improving as we hoped. I feel really good! Rehab continues to progress positively. I will get on my computer later and update some photos for your enjoyment!! I particularly like "Lady Liberty" and those playing and reading with Hayley. All my check in appointments are next week, starting with a new MRI on Saturday - Then radiation neurologist, surgeon, rehab doc and medical oncologist. My plan is to stay the current course unless there is a significant change. The radiation can shrink tumors for 6 months or more. We will keep you posted! Love you all and appreciate all your support and messages!!

Updated Background:

Happy July!​!! We hope you have had a good summe​r and staye​d mostl​y dry!! Charl​otte has been under​water most of the summe​r. We know it's been a while​, but the good news is that since our last updat​e, mostl​y posit​ive thing​s have been happe​ning! In May, we made it to the beach at DeBor​dieu with the Haden famil​y for a few days and enjoy​ed relax​ing all toget​her espec​ially on the wonde​rful wrap aroun​d porch​es and swing​ing hammo​cks along with fabul​ous food and surro​unded by wonde​rful famil​y - we all reall​y neede​d this!

When we got back, we found out on the new MRI, the the tumor​s conti​nued to respo​nd to radia​tion (3-6 month​s) but not the 2 addit​ional cycle​s of Temad​or. The origi​nal tumor conti​nued to shrin​k and the secon​d held prett​y stead​y witho​ut a lot of chang​e. Based on how sick the Temad​or made me witho​ut posit​ive resul​ts, we disco​ntinu​ed this cours​e of thera​py and worke​d on feeli​ng bette​r, gaini​ng back about 10 lbs, getti​ng to PT and just feeli​ng human again​. The oncol​ogist has made some recom​menda​tions for anoth​er drug/​drugs but there is not a lot of evide​nce that these would posit​ively chang​e my outco​me witho​ut serio​us medic​al risks and quali​ty of life issue​s - We know these are optio​ns, but still takin​g wait and watch appro​ach.

About 2 days later​, my neuro​surge​on and radia​tion oncol​ogist​, revie​wed the same MRI and deter​mined that the secon​d tumor had respo​nded so well to radia​tion and was still so very small​, they could possi​bly destr​oy it using steri​otact​ic radia​tion. On June 12, I had the 30 min gamma knife proce​dure. All went well! Had usual radia​tion fatig​ue at week 3 and some chall​enges tryin​g to wean compl​etely off stero​ids. Looks like I will be one of those peopl​e who need to stay on low dose to feel best!​!

Physi​cally and emoti​onall​y impro​ving every​day! My hair is comin​g in - prett​y silve​r color and Hayle​y think​s it feels like a "pupp​y" - so soft. I'm going for sexy grand​ma! I can now walk with a "e stim" (Walk Aid) devic​e that allow​s me to walk more indep​enden​tly and build the hamst​rings and quads a bit faste​r. I have been using it in PT 30mins/​sessi​on a coupl​e times a week since Janua​ry now I can keep it on all day, every​day and it's amazi​ng to see the chang​e.

Next up, new MRI on July 20 and check ins with all docs that week, to see what'​s happe​ning in my littl​e head!Based on my conti​nuing physi​cal progr​ess, every​one is very, very optim​istic​!!

Thank you to every​one for your continuing support, cards, calls and love! Would love to hear from you and I am able to get out and about more. Come visit, have a glass of wine in the porch or take me to your favor​ite water​ing hole. Miss you all!

Kathy

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7/27/13 Anoth­er rainy Saturday in Charlotte

Kathy Rayno­r | 02:25PM EDT on Sat. Jul 27, 2013

All my appointments and reports went well this week. MRI taken last Saturday show the original 2 tumors responding as expected to radiation and continuing to shrink! AND most importantly - nothing new growing or worth watching at the moment!!!!!!!! Vital signs and labs all good! I feel excellent; back to heavy PT this week - I want to be up and walking well to able to visit Cori in VA as soon as I can, after our new grandson is born! He's due Aug 18th but Jason and I are hoping for August 5 or 6th - our birthdays! Cori and Jason are all "nested" - Hayley not so sure. Knows there's a baby in there, just not sure how things might be changing for her! Special thanks to my friends Kim, Nancy, Ruth and Joyce for their continuing "girl­friend" visits and diversions. We had a lot of fun these last few weeks! Thanks to my family and extended families for all you are doing to help "me be me" - even when it's really hard!!! I love you with my whole heart!!!

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8/13/13 Still celebrating my birthday!

Kathy Raynor | 03:20PM EDT on Tue. Aug 13, 2013

It has been another excellent week! Celebrated 60 years and damn proud to be here! Passed my driver's test and got new license - won't probably even drive again but I wanted not to lose anything that I have been blessed with or earned!! Received LOTS of cards and greetings, calls and visits -- even from an old friend who was visiting from the Middle East, I hadn't seen in 11 years! Joanne and Jim Haden made me all my favorite foods in all the world, for my birthday. It was an amazing evening that allowed me a few sips of wine even! Continuing to progress in PT with a new E stimulator. Now have to get insurance to approve. Looking forward to a trip to the mountains Saturday and my sister's coming next week while Jeff's at his corporate meetings in Denver. Definitely excited to see Karen - it's been awhile! I know I try to thank everyone, every time for all that you have offered me in support and love and this week has been exceptional! Thank you, Love you all!

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9/12/13 - Update on Kathy

Cori Haden | 01:41PM EDT on Thu. Sep 12, 2013

As many of you know, Kathy (Mom) had a significant brain bleed on August 27th. You can visit the "background" section of this page above (BELOW) for more information. On a positive note, Mom continues to achieve some small milestones in rehab this week. She has been able to participate in some PT sessions and passed her swallow test this morning! We are hopeful to see these improvements and hope that with rest, healing and therapy she will continue to progress!

NEW UPDATE HERE

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9/16/13 - Moved to Southminster Hospice

Cori Haden | 08:48AM EDT on Tue. Sep 17, 2013

Over the weekend, Kathy improved enough to be able to regularly engage in conversations about her care - listening and reacting to family and providers and clearly answering "yes" and "no" to some questions. With her input, she moved to the Levine - Dickson hospice house at Southminster today. Kathy is engaging in conversations and helping to direct her care. She also continues to rest frequently in between visits from friends & family (including the grand kids, who are full of excitement!) As many of you would desire at visit; please coordinate with the family Chris, Cori or Jeff to make sure we don't overwhelm. Thanks for you continued prayers!

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10/5/13 - Update from Hospice

Cori Haden | 12:21PM EDT on Sat. Oct 05, 2013

Kathy is at the end of her third week in a wonderful hospice facility. It has been 6 weeks since the trip to the ER with her unexpected, latest stroke. Her choice to enter hospice means we have focused on comfort measures - she has had nothing to eat in as long, which is her choice. We are confident she is in charge of the plan. Her communication remains limited as she gets weaker and more tired - her answers are overwhelmingly "yes" or "no" to questions.

We continue to be focused on helping her stay as comfortable and relaxed as possible. We are grateful for and will keep passing along your thoughts and prayers for her peaceful rest.

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10/15/13 - Update from Hospice

Cori Haden | 10:07AM EDT on Wed. Oct 16, 2013

Hi All - Kathy continues to receive "comfort care" at Hospice at Southminster. She is into her 5th week without food and due to her progressing weakness, has not had any fluids in a week. She sleeps the majority of the day, with a few wakeful moments to check-in on her family. Thank you for all of your continuing thoughts and prayers.

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10/21/13 - Kathy's Memorial Service

Cori Haden | 02:46PM EDT on Mon. Oct 21, 2013

Hi All - Kathy passed away peacefully on Saturday 10/19. The details are above (BELOW) on the Status page or can be seen here: http:­//obi­ts.di­gnity­memor­ial.c­om/di­gnity­-memo­rial/­obitu­ary.a­spx?n­=Kath­leen-­Rayno­r&lc=26­71&pid=1­67645­848&mid=5­70573­9

Thank you all for your love and suppo­rt. All our Love - Jeff, Cori & Chris

Updated Background:

Hi Friends and Family, it is with heavy hearts that we must share -

Kathy Raynor, 60, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2013 at the Levine & Dickson Hospice House at Southminster, after a courageous and inspirational battle with cancer.

Kathy was born in Troy, NY, the oldest daughter of John Francis Kane and Harriett S. Kane, both preceding her in death.

Kathy received a bachelor's degree in nursing from Russell Sage College in Troy, NY. She enjoyed working for 20 years in pediatric nursing, most especially in her role as a nurse practitioner. She then moved into a fulfi­lling career in hospital administration with Carolinas Healthcare System and Novant Health for more than 15 years. Her experience in nursing enabled her to bring unique perspective and incredible compassion to her patients in international health, patient and family support, premier health services, and finally as a transformation coach at Novant. Kathy was a tireless champion of healthcare excellence delivered through authentic and engaging interactions. She relentlessly pushed above and beyond to ensure those around her were providing and receiving the best possible, patient-centered care.

Kathy was a loving wife, mother, and grandmother - giving to her family with the same passion she brought to her career. She enjoyed participating in the "9-holers" golf group, cooking, sewing and needlepoint, and spending time in Hilton Head with family and friends.

Kathy is survived by her husband of 37 years, Jeff Raynor, of Charlotte and their children, Cori Haden of Ashburn, VA and husband Jason and Chris Raynor of Charlotte and fiancé Jessica LeClaire; her grandchildren, Hayley Haden and Henry Haden; her sister, Karen Flynn of Scotia, NY and husband Jim; and her brothers, John Kane of Milton Mills, NH and wife Linda and Pat Kane of Cropseyville, NY and wife Jan.

A memorial service to celebrate Kathy's life will be held at St. Gabriel Catholic Church in Charlotte on Friday, October 25th at 3:30 pm. The family will receive friends in the Church Parish Hall afterwards. Interment will be private.

The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to all her caregivers over the past year for their excellent and authentic care, support, and friendship, especially Dr. Ashley Sumrall; Dr. Stuart Burri; Dr. Vishwa Raj and the caregivers at Carolinas Rehabilitation, especially Joanna Edeker, Jessica Vavoulis, Chris Brown, Brittany Lorden and Lindsey Beardsley; as well as Karen Flynn, Ruth Pierce, Bishop William Curlin, Patricia Beck, Catherine Horgan, Katie Duke, and the Levin­e & Dicks­on Hospi­ce House at Southminster staff.

The family wishes to recognize others who embody Kathy's authentic approach to healthcare, especially at the Levine Cancer Institute, and requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to The Kathy Raynor Fund for Authenticity in Healthcare Excellence­, C/O Carolinas HealthCare Foundation, PO Box 32861, Charlotte, North Carolina 28232.

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