update

Hi all,

Sorry I have not updated in a while, there has not been much 'news' as such. Obviously David is still very unwell and in a lot of pain, exhaustion, discomfort. We have learned that is often hard to tell what is the symptom of the disease and what is a symptom of the various medications he takes. He has been on a short course of steroids for the last few weeks, and it has had the lovely side effect of giving him more energy (in very short bursts) which means he has been able to have some good conversations, short outings, etc. This has been a real blessing to him and to everyone who gets to enjoy his company! :) Some precious memories have been made.

Due to other side effects he needs to come off the steroids now but may go back on them another time... we shall see, under advice from his Doctors of course.

Over the last couple weekends, David and Catherine have had all four of the interstate kids (Iain, Woz, Meg and Anne) come to visit for a weekend which has been just lovely for them all. And a great support too!

I want to mention again how grateful C&D are for the ongoing pouring out of support, prayers and practical help. They are so touched and grateful - everyone has been amazing . David's family are always so eager and ready to do anything for their beloved brother and son.  Our beautiful church family has been quietly chugging along providing D&C with meals for months now - an incredible help and blessing in so many ways. David wants to write something to say 'thank you' to everyone via this blog, so when he gets the energy I will post that up.... keep checking back :)

I know they have also been greatly encouraged by the text messages, emails and cards arriving in the mail. Though it is not always easy to talk about what they are going through over and over to every person, I know every card that comes in the mail really makes them smile, lifts their spirits and strengthens them both in this tough journey. They definitely feel lifted up by the community around them cheering them on... so thank you all for that. If you would like to send a little card or something, please do... I don't want to post their address on the web, but you can email me on livinglovinglaughingtogetherATgmailDOTcom if you would like it, and I will email you their details.

Knowing how to respond to the common question of 'How's David?' is a tricky one. Obviously he is not doing well, and he is not getting better. But some days he is a little more energetic/comfortable/able to chat than others. Generally he is very tired, very weary, and in a lot of discomfort as the tumour grows to such a significant size and pushes all his other organs around. I can't imagine what this feels like, but I know it isn't good. He has a lot of pain and sometimes nausea. How he feels can change within minutes through out the day. Generally his energetic bursts last about 30 mins (of talk time or whatever). We have learned not to plan or predict but simply take each moment as it comes, supporting him through the down times and embracing the good ones. Catherine is working tirelessly and endlessly as his beloved wife (or 'girlfriend' as he likes to call her), carer and support. She is doing a wonderful job in an incredibly hard situation.

Thanks all, will try to touch base again soon xx Kate