“David Foster's Kicking Kidney Cancer’s Arse”

Out of Death, Comes Life

Some of you may already know this (if you read my blog), but I thought I would let you know that I just found out that I'm pregnant.  This is Hillary, by the way, and not Sherry.  You probably guessed that, but I was just making sure.  Dad would have appreciated the irony in that, though he would have thought I was crazy for having three children under 4. 

My mom said last night, "It's a good thing we don't believe in reincarnation."  Yeah, that's just a scary thought.  I love my dad and would do anything to see him again...except that.  This will be Dad's 8th grandchild.  What a legacy!  If he were still here, I would have told him tomorrow when he called to wish me a Happy Birthday (the Big 30).  I still can't believe he won't be calling. 

I hope you are all doing well.  Please keep us informed as to your own battles.  I'm addicted to your stories as well.   Thank you again for your thoughts and prayers. 

David Immortalized

I realize it's been a while since I've had the honor of writing to you all.  I'm back in Maryland now attempting to re assimilate into my life, with my husband, my two kids, my business, my home, etc... 

A couple of things to update you on.  The first is this beautiful photo tribute to my dad, done by the folks at Gray's Sporting Journal.  There are some pictures of me in there, but all are several years old.  I think I just might have to post my favorite pic of Dad and me on my blog tonight or tomorrow. 

Secondly, I'm working on a fundraiser in Dad's memory for the American Cancer Society (and for all of you out there fighting this hideous disease).  For the time being, I'm a consultant for Pampered Chef, and in the month of May, it's "Help Whip Cancer" month where we can raise up to 30% of sales for the A.C.S.  Well, I'm taking it a step further and donating my entire commission.  My goal is submit $2000 in sales which would equal a $800 donation to cancer research and prevention.  To learn more, go to my blog and look for the column on the top right.  I told you guys I was joining this battle with you. 

Thank you!  Hillary

I've only just figured out how to download posts. I'm at a loss how to proceed. I've received cards from so many people, some of whom I've never met or heard of but who obviously had a relationship with David. Either via cyberspace or real world. I've come to see another facet of my most amazing husband. If only this sort of thing were possible early on in our lives. It's truly comforting. We also have the most wonderful friends. I'm overwhelmed. God bless you all.
sherry

Final Arrangements

Dad's memorial service will be at 5:00 pm on Monday, April 21st at the Church of the Good Shepherd (2230 Walton Way, Augusta, GA).   There will be a visitation immediately following. 

Since dad is being cremated, there will be no burial side service. 

For those traveling from out of town, there are several hotels nearby and almost anything is close in Augusta, but Sherry recommends The Partridge Inn (706-737-8888, airport shuttle available). 

In lieu of flowers a donation can be made to the American Cancer Society in Dad's memory. 

Thank you!

A Tribute

We're still working on the arrangements, and I will let you know when they are all set in stone (probably late this afternoon).  In the meantime, I thought you might like to read a tribute to my dad that ran in the Augusta Chronicle this morning (Tribute to David) .

For those of you that have been reading my blog as well, thank you for joining me in this journey, for your kind words of support and encouragement.   Dad may have lost his battle, the war rages on. Whether you are a warrior yourself, a caretaker, or one left behind, we all have the ability to fight.  I have to confess that I haven't been very involved in the war against cancer.  Before dad was diagnosed, I had never really been affected by the disease.  But that is all different now.  I'm angry, furious, that something so evil could invade someone I love and take him away.  It must be defeated.  I can picture my dad scolding me now for sounding so trite, but that doesn't mean he didn't agree.  Afterall, he was a Warrior.

I know I say this a lot, and will continue...Thank You!  Hillary

Into The Woods

With a sad heart I wish to let you know that my dear brave husband David  gave up his long hard fought battle against cancer this morning at approximately 10 a.m. EST. He went with a sigh and seeming peace. I like to think of him walking the woods with his beloved Gracie and Jeb, while likely discussing with God the best way to manage the fields for quail cover. He loved and realized tremendous support from all of you and I very much believe that support kept him in the fight far longer than he would ever have managed alone. For that I thank you. My love to you all...
Go with God my brave knight.
September 22, 1945-April 15, 2008

When the memorial service arrangements are final I will post them.

The Words That are Hardest to Say

I've been dreading this moment for a few days now, desperately trying to capture the right words to say. Then I realized that there are no right words.  My dad's battle is coming to an end.  His organs are starting to shut down, and he's currently in a semi-comatose state.  At this point, it's just a matter of how long he'll hold on.  If you're an avid reader of this blog, you know that my dad is a fighter and will fight to the bitter end. 

He's fought a good fight.  From the day he was diagnosed, he fought, longer and harder than anyone would have imagined.  And I know that his legacy will live on long after his physical body gives out.  We'll let you know when the time comes, but in the meantime, we'd appreciate your prayers for my dad and the family.  You are as much a part of this war as we are.  This battle may be lost, but the war will go on, and one day, we will win it.

Thank You,

Hillary and Sherry

Two Steps Forward, One Step Back

In the process of recovery, they're are good days, okay days, and bad days.  Today is an okay day.  A couple nights ago they gave Dad some Adovan.  In good health that stuff will send him into a loop for two full days.  Apparently in recovery mode, it just puts him down for the count.  We're hoping he'll snap out of it this afternoon, but like everything else, it's a game of wait and see.  It's been 48 hours since he's eaten well, which just adds to the mess.

All of this has reminded us that the fight is not over, far from it in fact.  It's going to be a long, windy road to strength and health.   Dr. Schlaer is out of town, so until he returns on Sunday, we'll just keep doing what we're doing and see what happens next. 

I'm sure most of you saw the Warden's comment the other day.  I just have to say that though she has been an excellent Warden for Dad in this battle, she's been more like a Rock over the past few weeks.  She's strong, supportive and loving, and I appreciate her so much.  I believe that her presence and Dad's stubbornness have gotten him this far, and will carry him on.  Thank you Sherry!