Michael B. Schott Fund
Hermelin Brain Tumor Center Susan H. Foley 1 Ford Place, 5A Detroit, MI 48202
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| Thursday June 26, 2008 11:30AM As difficult as it was...I am so happy that I attended the VIP Reception for the "Shoot for a Cure" event. In November there is the "16th Annual Shoot for a Cure" dinner @ the Andiamo Italia Banquet Center in Warren, MI. (It was so incredible to be a part of it last year...especially since Mike had been doing so well.) The event last night consisted of research lab tours for the Henry Ford Neuroscience Institute. The Hermelin Brain Tumor Center is an important component of Henry Ford. We were able to tour the labs and speak with the doctors in charge of their particular lab. Short presentations were given in each lab. Amazing and informative. Mike's doctor...Dr. Satish Krishnamurthy's research is my focus for the Michael B. Schott Fund...he has his own lab and I will post the proposal as soon as I have it. I am so looking forward to helping with this cause. When Mike and I went to this event last year we were both so impressed with the Center. I can not think of any better way to honor Mike then to continue with our plan of helping in some way...until next time...Evonne |
| Tuesday June 24, 2008
10:30AM One year ago Mike swam 20 laps...2 years ago we were returning from 10 days in Paris/Rome...and so on. Now it's 3 months today since Mike is no longer with us. Anyone that has faced anything as devastating as this will surely agree that it does indeed get worse and I always think how can it get better?? Speaking with someone last week who had suffered a double tragedy over 20 years ago.... the loss of his wife & son within 2 years...with tears in his eyes told me that it does get better but never gets easier. The boys and I went to the Detroit Fireworks last night...huge event and we were able to watch from the roof top of Cobo Arena. Lots of things for the kids to do. Below are a few pictures from last night. Kids were getting temporary tattoos and my boys are a bit old for some of the pictures offered...so my son Tom suggested Mike's initials along with the day he died...Sammy, Tommy and Chris (friend and Mike's ice cream buddy) all had this done. The guy doing the artwork asked if this "MBS 3-24-08" was a code, because they all did it. Tommy said.."no, it's for my step-dad, Michael Bennett Schott, he was a really special man and he died." I worry so much about the boys and their heavy hearts with the loss of Mike and then I'm so thankful that the impact/influence that Mike had on their lives will make them better men. Just as I worry about Mike's kids, hoping in time it won't be so painful for all of us. I'm invited to a Behind-the-Scenes Lab Tour of the Henry Ford Hermelin Brain Tumor Center tomorrow evening. It will be most difficult to attend, last year Mike and I went together and he was doing so well. Now my focus is still on Mike but in a different way, now his memory...until next time...Evonne.........missing you Michael B... more than ever |
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| In Honor of Mike...(not a real tattoo!) |
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| Detroit Red Wings-Stanley Cup |
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| Wednesday June 18, 2008
10:45PM peace. it does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble or hard work. it means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart. (unknown)
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If
God brings you to it,
He
will bring you through it.
Happy
moments, praise God.
Difficult
moments, seek God.
Quiet
moments, worship God.
Painful
moments, trust God.
Every
moment, thank God.
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| Sunday June 15, 2008
10:00AM HAPPY FATHER'S DAY MIKE!!! Oh, how I wish you were here...what a wonderful father you were- not only to Kyle, John, Maggie, Leslie and Mark...but I couldn't have asked for a better step-father for my sons Sam and Tom. You are missed more than ever and the loss that is felt every moment of everyday is only getting stronger. Wishing my DAD a Happy Father's Day and looking forward to spending the day with him, but first off to the cemetery to visit Mike. Decided I needed to see Mike's sister Barb, we have become so close. On Friday I went to Florida for the night to have dinner with Barb, her son Aaron, his wife Anna and their son Austin. Was so good to spend some time with her and her family. So many memories shared along with endless tears...until next time...Evonne |
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| Having lunch in Florida |
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| Barb, Austin and I |
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| Christmas Day 2007-- Happy Father's Day Mike |
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| Christmas morning 2007--we all miss you... |
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| Holiday Party with Craig and Linda, December 2007 |
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| Thursday June 12, 2008
9:00PM Looking at this picture above if someone told me at this party that Mike would be gone in less than 3 months I would have said they were absolutely crazy! |
| Tuesday June 10, 2008
10:15AM Hard to believe and painful to think about one year ago this week...Mike swam for the first time. I think it was one of the happiest days for both of us!! Through this whole ordeal he never complained...both of us trying to always stay so focused and positive.
I received a copy of Dr. Satish Krishnamurthy's research project. His lab is at Henry Ford Hospital...part of the Hermelin Brain Tumor Center. Dr. Satish was Mike's surgeon who also operates out of Beaumont Hospital. The editing department at HFH is working on a draft that I can post on the web-site....until next time...Evonne |
Thursday June 5, 2008
5:00PM
Hope this finds everyone well. Unfortunately nothing new to report as of yet on the MBS Fund. I have run into a few people this week who have not heard Mike had passed away. I know the look on my face when the question is asked gives the answer without me having to say a word. Someone said that they thought the time was going pretty fast since March 24....I may have to disagree with that. There have been days that feel like weeks and hours that could pass for days. Now looking back over the last 2 1/2 months I think I'm still in shock. I find myself going to the cemetery at least once a week...just got back from going there today. I am so thankful that I have my sons Sam and Tom...and with summer here and school getting out next week we will try and stay busy together! Really difficult opening the pool...almost didn't do it...the boys said Mike would want us to, so of course it is open! Congratulations to Alison (John's girlfriend) on her graduation from law school!... ...until next time...Evonne
Michael B. Schott Fund
c/o Hermelin Brain Tumor Center Susan H. Foley 1 Ford Place, 5A Detroit, MI 48202 |
| Thursday May 22, 2008
9:00AM Waiting for information from the hospital regarding the possibility of having a Research Center/Lab in honor of Michael B. Schott. This would be the most fitting tribute in his name. Once I receive some of the details I will post the information. What a week...with the news of Ted Kennedy and his diagnosis of a brain tumor and all of the media attention to treatments.... survival details it is so painful to listen to. Our family knows exactly how the Kennedy family is feeling about now....they just have no idea what they are in for! Watching American Idol was a family favorite in our home. Oh, how Mike would have enjoyed the show last night. We shared a passion for music, tough watching without him. My son Sam had Mike hooked on a song that was performed on Idol...OneRepublic..."APOLOGIZE". When the band came on and sang this song the boys and I just looked at each other and smiled and tried to hold back the tears..."Last Dance" with Donna Summer another MBS favorite...can still picture Mike's sister Barb dancing to it the night before our wedding...such great memories...until next time...Evonne |
| Friday May 9, 2008
10:00AM Been a while since the last update...the reality is beginning to set in. I have decided that I have what I call "the 3 minute limit". When I am talking with someone and the question comes up..."how are you doing?", I never know how to answer, so I can talk for about 3 minutes and then the voice starts to crack and the tears flow and the answer is obvious. I am so thankful I have my 2 sons, don't know what I would do without them. We find ourselves talking about Mike and saying to each other "what would Mike say/do?" Mike's best-friend Hughes was in town yesterday and there was a group of us that went to dinner and on to the baseball game...of course Detroit was playing Boston. It's always fun when my parents have dinner with us...there is always too much food and it feels good to be with people that understand how difficult the smallest tasks may be. Sam and Tom love spending time with Uncle Hughes and Mike would be so happy to know his good friend is looking after us! Meeting on Monday to discuss how the MBS FUND will be set-up. Donations are always welcome and deeply appreciated!
Michael B. Schott Fund
c/o Hermelin Brain Tumor Center Susan H. Foley 1 Ford Place, 5A Detroit, MI 48202
take care everyone...until next time...Evonne |
| Thursday, April 24, 2008
9:30PM It's been one month today.....can't even believe that--you know the saying, "one day at a time"....for me it's been more like "one hour at a time"....I MISS MY GUY .....all my love to you Michael B...love, Evonne Marie. |
| Friday April 18, 2008
10:00 AM Great meeting with the Senior Development Officer for the Hermelin Brain Tumor Center on Wednesday. The people I have met during the last 18 months are so passionate about what they do that it gives me a whole new perspective on the word "research". Never really thought much about this...then Mike got sick and that's all I can think about now. Looking forward to keeping Mike's memory/legacy alive through further research in any way possible! Thursday was treatment day for Mike...so yesterday I decided it was time to visit some very special people that cared for Mike during his courageous battle. The ladies in the office...from Andrea, Shemeeka, Claire, Heather, Jen, MaryAnn, Lisa, Dr. Margolis, Dr. Reid, Dr. Balaraman, Marcella, Leslie, Ramona, Debbie and anyone else I missed, thank you from the bottom of my heart for all that you did not only for Mike but for myself and our family. The compassion and care you show to all of your patients is truly genuine and beautiful....until next time...Evonne |
Michael B. Schott Fund
Hermelin Brain Tumor Center Susan H. Foley 1 Ford Place, 5A Detroit, MI 48202
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| Wednesday, April 16, 2008
8:30AM HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAGGIE...thinking of you all morning and knowing that your Dad would have called you to sing "the birthday song" to you already...xxoo Evonne
Meeting today regarding the MBS Fund...as always I will post updates as soon as I have them. Amazed at the amount of donations coming in...THANK YOU everyone and I am working on proper acknowledgements to all...until next time |
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| Maggie and her Dad...Christmas '07 |
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| One of Mike's favorite picture's. |
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| Monday April 14, 2008
7:30AM Today is Mike's Birthday! Happy Birthday Mike....I used to tell him every night as he went to bed that he was safe and loved. Now on his birthday I try and find comfort knowing that he truly is in a better "safe" place and loved now more than ever. This is more painful than ever imagined....I am meeting this week to make final arrangements for the MBS Brain Tumor fund...all donations are greatly appreciated...details will follow. I miss you Michael B., happy birthday, all my love...Evonne Marie |
| Friday April 11, 2008
7:30AM It's a rainy-cool morning...As much as Mike loved the sunshine he also loved the rain. He would always say that the rain was needed so we could enjoy the beauty outside. Today I am off to the cemetery. Have heard from so many old and new friends...there is so much truth to the saying...you really know who your friends are when your down. Looking through pictures as I often do I wanted to add this picture below. This was the perfect day...a drive up-north to spend the week with Sam and Tom and the Bahr family. Craig and Sam took Mike in the lake swimming,,,the boys went fishing. Enjoying the simplest things...one of Mike's finest qualities...whether it was the St. James Club in Paris or the cottage in Bahr Harbor-- Mike Schott enjoyed life....until next time....Evonne |
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| August '07...vacation up-north Bahr Harbor |
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| Tuesday April 8, 2008
8:30AM Just when you think you have heard all the stories of all the people that Mike has touched...I hear more. The cards, emails and letters that are coming in are unbelievable. Almost everyone has a special note on what Mike has meant to them. His character, his courage and his spirit will live on. I will never forget one of Mike's treatment days...it was every Thursday and I would sit across from him. Mike would sit down and no matter who was next to him he would say..."Hi, I'm Mike Schott, what's your name?" He could take the person that never spoke to anyone and one particular woman comes to mind...she was not feeling well and by the time Mike was done with her, she felt like the most beautiful woman and even smiled. He just made everyone feel so special. It's a beautiful morning...he would just love the sunshine. Thank you everyone for the donations coming in for the MBS Fund. Working on the most appropriate use of the funds...until next time...Evonne |
| Saturday April 5, 2008
9:00PM Working on the Michael B. Schott Fund...hope to have more details next week. Finding it most difficult to concentrate on anything right now. I am surrounded by people who care and understand and still have never felt more alone. The loss and emptiness I feel I can't put into words. Went to the gym this morning...first time in 1 1/2 years...big mistake, very painful. I find the simplest tasks so difficult right now. Has anyone lost their spouse/best friend? How do you get through this? Even though Mike was sick for so long I still had the belief we could get through it...and the reality is that he is gone and not coming back and oh how I miss him...until next time...Evonne |
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| Thursday, April 3, 2008 8:15AM Had to stop and think of what month it is...This has been bothering me all week and I would like to express my sincerest apology to Dottie Henry, she is Mike's step-mother who lives in New York and she was not mentioned in Mike's death notice. This was not brought to my attention by anyone but me...Mike absolutely loved and adored Dottie and I'M SO SORRY that you were not given proper acknowledgement.
Words will never be able to express the emptiness that I feel and I'm trying to focus on the wonderful memories that I have. Was in the local drugstore yesterday and a song came on that was one of our "fun" favorite workout songs...I almost couldn't breathe...so it's difficult to focus on just about anything right now...until next time...Evonne |
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| Dottie (& Henry) & Mike in NYC October 2007 |
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| Tuesday, April 1, 2008
8:30AM Trying to figure out the "new" normal...before Mike got sick it was working full-time, teaching my classes, taking care of my boys and living a very full life with my guy. It all changed in October '06, my "new" normal began the moment we walked in the hospital...there was never any doubt about what had to be done, it was to be there to protect him and make sure he had the absolute best of everything. Sitting here this morning thinking about life and feeling Mike's presence all around me and wondering what the word "normal" means. I am completely overwhelmed with the love and support from everyone...until next time...Evonne
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| Sunday March 30, 2008
9:30PM Long painful day...still trying to accept what has happened. Good news is that I am surrounded by friends and family. Had a very nice dinner tonight with Linda and Craig....Mike's kids all came over their home for a visit . Barb is still in town and I will miss her when she leaves tomorrow. Thinking about my guy ALL day everyday, even catch myself talking to him...until next time...Evonne |
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Saturday March 29, 2008
8:12AM It's been 5 days & 3 hours since Mike's suffering ended...and for me life will be one day at a time... I must admit up until the beginning of February we were living life, always a little slower pace but it didn't stop us. I would always tell him...we can sit home and cry/feel sorry for ourselves or go out and live. So we did...there was nothing I wouldn't do for him. The most difficult part of this entire situation is that no matter how hard you try, the best doctors, the 24/7 care I gave him, Mike's determination to do whatever he had to do, diet, exercise...when the tumor came back there was no stopping it...Mike was tired and as I said at the service yesterday I told him it was "OK" to be tired and he didn't have to fight anymore.....THE HARDEST WORDS I HAVE EVER SPOKEN. I will always cherish and hold closest to my heart that I was holding him as he took his last breath. From what I heard it was another miracle...he waited for me. Mike's Memorial Service yesterday was beautiful. Mike's son John and Jake (Mike's brother) shared memories and brought many to tears. I tried to speak and was at a loss for words...I know hard to believe...:) Having Pastor Butcher there was most appropriate...Mike and I have a strong bond with him, not only as our Pastor but proud to call him our friend. Just looking at him brings on a feeling of peace. Sam and Tom have found great comfort with him and I hope Mike's kids will do the same if needed. Sincere thanks to everyone (some traveling a great distance) for the love, support and strength during this most difficult time for our family. When I started this web-site last September '07 it was to provide information on Mike's battle. I will continue this site in his honor to provide information on the Michael B. Schott Brain Tumor Fund that we are working on now...details to follow....until next time...Evonne |
Friday, March 28, 2008 7:15AM
Can't sleep, can't eat and not ready to say good-bye.........wanted to share this...it was sent to me last week....
"I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright. I wish you enough rain to appreciate the sun more. I wish you enough happiness to keep your spirit alive. I wish you enough pain so that the smallest joys in life appear much bigger. I wish you enough gain to satisfy your wanting. I wish you enough loss to appreciate all that you possess. I wish you enough "Hello's" to get through the final "Good-Bye." - Anonymous |
Thursday, March 27, 2008
11:50PM What a tough, tough day. Mike, how I miss you so...all my love...Evonne Marie |
| Thursday, March 27, 2008
9:00AM Sitting here in Mike's pajamas...... Mike would be so very proud of his sons John and Mark...they came over last night after the funeral home to help comfort Sam and Tom. As Tommy said I know he was your dad...but I loved him too! I didn't have the heart to tell my boys while they were on vacation with their dad...or bring them home early. Mike would have wanted it this way. Having them home now is what I desperately need. Sam and Tom had a very special relationship with Mike and the love they shared will help them get through this. Having Barb here with me is good for both of us....after she lost her husband Jack suddenly last August, this just doesn't seem fair as her heart is broken again. Thinking about last night and seeing Sue who did Mike's nails every week or the nurses that came up, or Sam's hockey coach...wow another one of those lists that could go on and on. One thing for sure MIKE SCHOTT was a gentleman and I can't think of anyone that would argue that. Maggie's friends all came in town, Mike always said she had a beautiful group of friends and they are here for her now. Yesterday was very difficult and I know there will be many more difficult days to come not only for me but for many...until next time....Evonne |
| Thursday, March 27, 2008
12:30 AM First day done....only 2 more to go...so painful....my sons Sam and Tom finally came home from Mexico tonight...so difficult to tell someone news that will change their lives forever......Evonne
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| Wednesday, March 26, 2008
8:30AM As I write this I'm sitting in the front office of our home...listening to some of our favorite music with the sun shining so brightly through the windows...thinking about my guy and how much we enjoyed the simplest things...as long as we were together. Made myself walk into our Starbucks yesterday...I as so overwhelmed with the emotions displayed by Connie who works there...she has known us for years....Just when you think you can't cry anymore it starts all over again... I WILL MISS MY GUY, MY BEST FRIEND AND THE LOVE OF MY LIFE FOR THE REST OF MINE.. I LOVE YOU MICHAEL B. WITH ALL MY HEART....EVONNE MARIE |
Very special thank you to Dave Minnick for putting this together for me...still displaying the fine qualities that MBS saw in you years ago....
Luncheon following Memorial Service on Friday, March 28....map attached Lakeland Banquet & Event Centre
21801 East Nine Mile St. Clair Shores, MI 48080 586-772-0450 |
| Tuesday, March 25, 2008
12:30 AM A bit overwhelmed right now...so much to do and not thinking about what has really happened......the reality of this mornings events has not set in....
The following arrangements for Make have been made... Wednesday- March 26, 2008 4:00PM-9:00PM Thursday-March 27, 2008 1:00PM-9:00PM Friday-March 28, 2008 Visitation at 10:00AM Memorial Service at 11:00AM....(luncheon details to follow....) Verheyden Funeral Home
16300 Mack Ave. Grosse Pointe Park, MI 48230 313-881-8500
Donations can be made in honor of Mike to the: Hermelin Brain Tumor Center Henry Ford Health System 2799 West Grand Blvd. Suite E&R3094 Detroit, MI 48202 313-916-1756
Thank you for the amazing support in this most difficult time....Evonne |
| MONDAY MARCH 24, 2008 8:45AM This morning I lost my best friend....and Kyle, John, Maggie, Leslie and Mark lost their father...Sam and Tom lost their step-father...Barb and Jake lost their brother and the list goes on.......Mike is in a much better place than I am......it was so very peaceful for him. My heart is broken but filled with the love we had for each other....... details regarding services will be posted soon.....Evonne Schott and Mike's kids
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Sunday, March 23, 2008
6:00PM
Sitting in the hospital room with all of Mike's kids today...just waiting...It's very comforting just being here with him, knowing he is not in any pain and is very aware that we are all here with him and that those who are not are all thinking of him and our families...until next time...Evonne and Maggie
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| Sunday, March 23, 2008
4:00AM Easter Morning Heading back to the hospital....already feel as though I'm running late. Just need to be there NOW. Waiting for his pain to end and the beginning of a deeper pain to begin, not only for me but for Kyle, John, Maggie, Leslie, Mark, his sister Barb, Sam, Tom, my large family, Linda, Craig, Colleen, Eric, ( I read Mike the note from Noah and Rosemary) Alison, Hughes (mendy), Rod....Jake his brother and his family...Jake Jr and Kate who are in town now...wow...I could go on and on and on....... Michael Bennett Schott has touched the lives of so many...until the next time...Evonne |
| Saturday, March 22, 2008 12:10AM Today is my son Sam's 16th birthday......thinking of the day he was born, 2 months early and only 3 lbs...I look at him today and remember thinking how will I get through this??? Now 16 years later I look at Mike and wonder how will I get through this? Words cannot describe the loss I already feel...not to mention the pain. As I watch close friends and family visit these past 2 days there are feelings that words will never be able to describe/express. Decisions need to be made as Mike is still in ICU and I need to make arrangements for the next step. Many thanks for the kind emails and postings on the web-site...until next time...Evonne |
| Friday, March 21, 2008
My heart is breaking as Mike is getting weaker.....please pray for strength not only for Mike, but for me and our families. until next time.... a very sad wife....Evonne |
| Thursday, March 20, 2008
7:00AM Looking back over the past 4 weeks, I never would have dreamed that Mike would still be in ICU this morning. I'm off to the hospital, was to tired last night to even think straight to post an update. Sometimes I'm beside myself with what to say. The events Tuesday morning were awful to say the least. I have purposely kept that situation close to home. Once again Mike has pulled through and hoping I can share something a bit more positive tonight. I'm incredibly overwhelmed with the support....there are those I will never look at the same again. Mike had a surprise visit yesterday from Heather...the prettiest oncology nurse with a heart to match...the ladies that have taken care of Mike for the past 1 1/2 years were concerned so Heather came to visit....huge hospital and I would take Mike to another building on the other side for treatment...so thank you to everyone at Dr. Margolis's office for thinking of us.....thanks Alison for sending the pictures to John of Leslie and Maggie....until next time,,,Evonne
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| MBS...on the phone with his lap top...even in Hawaii |
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| Maggie with her dad! |
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| Leslie and dad! |
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Tuesday, March 18, 2008
10:15PM Had to really stop and think what day it is...TOUGH, TOUGH day. Still in ICU...seems as though Mike has one good day and a set-back the next. Will keep this very simple tonight as I'm emotionally and physically drained, asking for prayers to get through this brutal situation....until next time...Evonne |
| Monday, March 17, 2008
11:40PM These late night updates are tough...I'm doing my best to keep everyone up to speed. Mike had the procedure today for the other feeding tube...it went well, but he slept most of the day. He looked really good to me tonight! I am ever so thankful for my family...my mom was with John (Mike's son from Boston) and I during the procedure and my boys had dinner with Aunt Mary and Uncle Tom tonight...feel so lucky that my boys have my family so close to help them. Whether it's Aunt Michelle and Uncle Eric taking one to hockey or Aunt Rene' with carpool...it's so comforting that they know they are with people that love them and who they want to be with. Going to Telly's (restaurant near our home) with Grandma and Poppy is also fun on a Saturday night. I mention this because it is the support that is given to me by my family and friends that allows me to be there for Mike. It is so comforting to me that my sons understand what true love is, and the sacrifices one makes...lesson's in life that are priceless. As I type this tonight it is really to give thanks to those who support me to help Mike get stronger...as it has been said... "it takes a village..."...until next time...Evonne |
| Sunday, March 16, 2008
11:15PM Have you ever had a day that was just there??? Today was one of those days for us. Just waiting for something to happen...Mike is so weak. He had great difficulty with the feeding tube. Tomorrow the doctors will try another method to insert the tube. This evening facing some very major decisions...rehab...or home with 24hr care...really need to think about what will be best for Mike and no one else. Coming home this evening to my sons Sam and Tom who could not wait to take care of me...such a wonderful way to end the day. Surprise visits today from my brother Tom and his son Ronnie (who Mike absolutely loves) friends Carolyn and Pete Franklin...my parents and more surprise's from good friends Linda and Colleen (Mike's girlfriends...LOL-- actually my 2 closest friends that Mike has beautiful relationships with). I will miss Jessica, one of my favorite ICU nurses who has been with Mike the last 4 days...hopefully he will be out of ICU before her next shift on Thursday....anyone who has a daughter would be proud to have Jess as a daughter..age 22 and I'm so impressed with her... I must admit the Beaumont 5 EAST ICU has an amazing team of nurse's and nurse tech's...all of which are not only quailified but compassionate. Until next time...Evonne
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| Sunday, March 16, 2008
12:15AM Updates are becoming a bit of a challenge....it would be impossible to recap all that goes on in a day. Today was not one of Mike's better days...it seems as though he has one good day and a weaker day follows. This is beyond me...trying to stay focused and make small goals for each day. As I have asked before, please pray for strength for Mike. With the little bit of energy he has, tonight he asked me how my back was and told me he loved me. He is breaking my heart and words will never be able to express this part of the journey. His son John came back into town today from Boston. Our good friend Colleen also came up for a visit. Visit's like these remind me how much Mike is loved and how many people care for him. Spend lots of time playing music in the room...next time you hear "Queen's song...My Best Friend" think of us... Until next time...Evonne |
| Friday, March 14, 2008
11:15PM Once again I'm facing difficult decisions...Mike is finally a bit stronger, but not really ready for the rehab unit. I'm thinking I'm going to bring him home Monday or Tuesday...of course with the doctors permission. In my heart I feel he will regain his strength at home...if you have ever dealt with this type of situation with a loved one I'm sure you'll understand. There are no secrets...Mike needs to be strong to re-start his treatment and he needs to do this as soon as possible. The other night I asked everyone to pray for him to get stronger...again that is my only request....strength to have the ability to get to the next level... until next time...Evonne |
| Thursday, March 13, 2008 11:30PM After reaction to my last posting it was obvious to many that Mike was hurting...and as difficult as the truth may be, it's the reality of the situation. Mike needs to get strong which means he needs to eat to regain his strength to fight the good fight. Didn't know what I would face this morning at the hospital...after walking in and Mike telling me his legs hurt, as bad as I felt for him....it was wonderful for him to tell me what hurt. Mike is finally waking up...he has been through more than anyone will ever know and is determined to do what is needed. His brother Jake drove in from Ohio for a quick visit today...what nice surprise. Mike's oldest...Kyle was is in from Chicago and left today...My mom brought my son's Sam and Tom to the hospital for a short visit after school today. Mike is truly loved by so many...and next to my boys, he is the best thing that ever happened to me! NEVER giving up hope....until next time...Evonne
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| Wednesday, March 12, 2008
10:30PM Words can not describe what I'm feeling this evening...will keep this short and simple...please pray for Mike to regain his much needed strength....until next time....Evonne |
| Monday, March 10, 2008
11:10PM Wish I had some really exciting news today...I am again reminded of the long road ahead. Mike has had little or no appetite and as a last resort today a feeding tube was temporarily inserted. Another one of those difficult decisions, but when you have tried everything and nothing works, I know in my heart there was no other choice and this had to be done. Mike is still in ICU and all things considered looks good. He is the best looking patient on the floor...:) all of the nurses love him! Must keep it light and with a bit of laughter...this is the most difficult time for both of us...Hoping to move to the rehab unit soon...until next time...Evonne |
| Saturday, March 8, 2008
10:00PM What a difference a day makes...Mike is still VERY weak but doing better. He is still in ICU and is battling 2 infections and has a few 'fixable complications". Still feel really positive about his recovery, know one knows better than me the road ahead...Mike is tough and so am I. We had a wonderful visit with Pastor Butcher yesterday. He married us and is the one that helped me when I was falling apart when this all started almost 1 1/2 years ago. I wish everyone could spend one hour with this man, he helped me understand the true meaning of the word '"miracle". I have heard from a few that were trying to reach Mike on his old Hansen's number...he has a new cell #...313-587-7773. I check his voice mail frequently and you can also call me at 313-433-9260. Thank you for some very personal emails...I am deeply touched. Until next time...Evonne |
| Saturday, March 8, 2008
7:00AM Change in plans...after much thought it has been decided that Mike will go directly to the rehab unit instead of coming home. Difficult decision, but absolutely the right one. Few minor set-backs yesterday that needed attention from the ICU was all I needed as a gentle reminder that this is what is best for him. Looking forward to Spring and some warmer weather...until next time...Evonne |
Thursday, March 6, 2008
10:45PM
Pretty good day today...there is something to be said about being in the hospital in ICU for this long...it can even make the most positive person negative...one of Mike's favorite sayings..."attitude is everything"...so maybe coming home will speed up the healing process. Going to see how he does over the weekend and I'm crazy enough to do this. He wants to come home, so if I can do it I will bring him home as soon as possible. He needs to get strong for rehab and laying in the hospital is not helping. Need to get him stable and gaining some weight back. Treatment will continue in about 3 weeks, so Mike needs to be ready for the next round....'cause I am...:)
Today's Message of the Day is:
Life is short, Break the rules, Forgive quickly, Kiss slowly, Love truly, Laugh uncontrollably, and never regret anything that made you smile.
Life may not be the party we hoped for, but while we're here we should dance.
Until next time...Evonne
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| Wednesday, March 5, 2008
10:15PM Mike is still in ICU...really trying hard to get strong. Today was a better day...Mike is struggling with his appetite and he enjoyed one of his favorite Starbuck's drinks that Sam & Tom brought him....that was a great sign. My son Tom had a hockey tournament this past weekend in Cleveland, Ohio. I was unable to go and his wonderful coach (Steve Walsh and wife Kathy) took him. The reason I bring this up is Mike's brother Jake and his best friend Hughes (mendy) live just outside of Cleveland. How awesome is it that they along with Jake's wife Donna went to see my Tommy play in the tournament? Silly as it may seem...I can never thank them enough for doing this. It meant so much to Tom and my entire family...and for my 13 year old who love's Mike so much to understand why I couldn't be there. Everyday I am amazed at the support...from my parent's who met me at the hospital on that awful night in October '06 and who haven't left our side, to the rest of my family and friends and of course Mike's family and friends. The countless dinners for my boys...(Aunt Mary, Grandma) so I don't have to leave the hospital...just overwhelming...carpools (Aunt Rene')...It really is the worst of times that makes you stop and think of what is really important...and the people who help you get through each day. Thanks to everyone for your continued prayers...please don't stop...until next time...Evonne p.s. Mike is trying to get Craig (friend) and Eric (brother-in-law) to get him out of the hospital and take him swimming! |
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| Hughes, Donna Schott and Tom Cleveland Hockey Tournament 2/29/08 |
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| Monday, March 3, 2008
10:45PM Another long, but better day...still in ICU. Mike is finally coming out of it after 2 brain surgeries in one week. This evening when I left he was not only talking to John (his son who has been in town the last 2 weeks) and I but he was also on the phone. It was very encouraging to say the least. It has been very special for Mike to have John around. John will be on his way back to Boston and Alison tomorrow...we will both miss you. I really don't think you truly appreciate what you have or how precious life is until you or someone close to you goes through something like this. I thought I did....then Mike got sick...tonight he was rubbing my back and you would of thought he just went to Ahee's...LOL (jewelry store). Seriously...I try and keep this awful situation light with a bit of humor along with reality. I not only love my guy...but adore him. Everyone knows how strong he is, but to watch what I have | |
